Recording Studio Software History

16 07 2010

When computers found their way into homes they were used for every possible and imaginable task. Audio recording was not an exception. First music software applications were promising but from today’s perspective they were very modest. This was due to limitations of computers at that time. Now we have two main streams of personal computing: PC and MAC. Both are used in professional recording studios with plethora of complex software applications.

The 1980s was a very important decade for music production and recording. MIDI started to emerge, Yamaha introduced the DX7 synthesizer, some samplers like Akai S1000 were very poplar, and first music software applications were written for microcomputers popular at that time. Various software sequencers were written for Commodore C64, Sinclair ZX Spectrum and Apple II. A real breakthrough was Macintosh with graphical user interface. It had widows with icons and a mouse pointer. Mark of the Unicorn developed Performer, the first sequencer for Macintosh.

For the history of MIDI sequencers Atari ST was also important. Designed as a gaming computer with graphical user interface it featured also MIDI I/O and it was cheaper than Mac. Steinberg Cubase and Emagic Notator were first developed for Atari ST.

First PC software applications were Cakewalk MIDI sequencer and the SCORE music notation package. However, at that time PCs with first Windows were not so stable as these days and many musicians preferred Mac for which CODA’s Finale software appeared at the end of 1980s. Cubase and Notator were also ported to Mac and PC platform.

In 1989 Digidesign introduced one of the first hard disk audio recording systems Sound Tools. It was a two-track recorder/editor used with Q-Sheet software. In 1990 the first MIDI and Audio sequencer was introduced. It was Opcode’s Studio Vision and used Digidesign’s Sound Tools hardware for audio. 4-channel Pro Tools appeared in 1992. There was also one not so popular microcomputer, the Acorn Archimedes with an interesting software called Sibelius. It was a score writing package which was also ported to Mac and PC. Later in the 90s Cubase VST (Steinberg ) and Logic Audio (Emagic) both implemented the notation features.

Computers became faster with more RAM and disk capacity so the next trend was multi-track recording. Steinberg worked on MIDI + Audio sequencers like Cubase VST (Virtual Studio Technology). Third-party developers welcomed the plug-in feature and a new market emerged. Emagic and Mark of the Unicorn also accepted the plug-in approach. In 1990s Pro Tools introduced 64-track system MIX with 16/24 bit audio at 44.1 or 48 kHz. At that time Cubase VST, Logic Audio and Pro Tools were all available on the PC platform.

In 1999 Steinberg introduced Nuendo. It offered 96 kHz recording and 5.1 surround audio. Pro Tools offered surround audio in 2002. At that time Pro Tools became a standard for professional recording studio software. Pro Tools 5.1 proved it’s capability of recording MIDI sequences and audio tracks. It’s user interface was simple and powerful for either recording, editing or mixing audio. At the same time Logic Audio was the most popular sequencer on the Mac platform. Digidesign introduced Pro Tools HD (sampling at 96/192 kHz) in 2002 when new operating system for Mac, OSX become available. Cubase SX and Logic Audio were also released for OSX. Pro Tools 6.0 for OSX become available in 2003.

Some ownership changes also occurred: Digidesign was acquired by Avid, Sony acquired Sonic Foundry, Emagic was acquired by Apple, Adobe acquired Syntrillium’s Cool Edit Pro software and changed its name to Adobe Audition, and Steinberg was acquired by Pinnacle. Now every leading recording studio software runs on both popular platforms, PC and Mac. And stability is not an issue anymore.

One of the big players in professional audio recording is still Digidesign’s Pro Tools. There are actually three flavors of Pro Tools, all of which share the same user interface and file format. The primary distinction is the hardware they complement. Pro Tools|HD runs on elite DSP-powered Pro Tools|HD hardware and is mainly used in professional environments, Pro Tools LE used in home studios works with a variety of Digidesign hardware including the Mbox 2 family and Pro Tools M-Powered delivers even more options via compatibility with dozens of M-Audio interfaces. Some audio engineers, producers and remixers use Pro Tools hardware with third-party software instead with the original Pro Tools software.

Computers and software in music recording and production are inevitable. We can hardly imagine working with analog tapes and mixers. Digital signal processing has raised audio technology to a new level. Personal computers have evolved to a level where everybody can afford a home recording studio. Cheap hard disks allow us to record unlimited number of tracks at arbitrary sample rate. Music recording has never been easier. There are also some disadvantages with this new technology. You can easily compress music and make it louder destroying the original dynamic and life it originally had. CD clipping is also very popular. However, the advantages of using computers in recording studios are huge. You only need the right software and some skills.

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Digidesigns Pro Tools Bundles

3 07 2010

If I needed to set up a home recording studio that was quick, easy and cheap first package I’d take a serious look at would be Digidesigns Pro Tools Bundles.

Digidesign has put together 4 of these bundles ranging from around the 600 dollar mark up to about a thousand. (talking big sale price here not list) They are:

1. Digidisign Pro Tools Mbox 2 Bundle

2. Digidisign Pro Tools Mbox 2 Pro Bundle

3. Digidisign Pro Tools Mbox 2 Factory Bundle

4. Digidisign Pro Tools Mbox 2 Pro Factory Bundle

All 4 bundles share these 5 main components:

o Mbox interface

o Pro Tools LE 7 Software

o Studio monitors

o microphone

o Ignition Pack (bunch of software)

Main difference #1:

Notice that bundles 1 and 3 have the Mbox 2 and bundles 2 and 4 Mbox 2 Pro. The regular Mbox 2 uses USB port connectivity and the Mbox 2 Pro is FireWire. Some may argue that the latest USB technology may be even faster than FireWire, while this may be true for some applications but not for recording music. For recording audio FireWire is faster than USB, which will give you slight audible delay called latency. I often do use a USB Mbox and redirect the monitoring to a mixer which can bypass the latency problem but it won’t even be there with the FIreWire boxes.

Main difference #2:

Next are the studio monitors. The 2 lower priced bundles 1 and 3 (same bundles that have the USB Mbox 2) come with a pair of Fostex PMO.4 Powered Studio Monitors. These are slightly inferior to the M-Audio BX5a Active Studio Monitors that come with the slightly more expensive 2 and 4 bundles.

Main difference #3:

The microphone with bundles 1 and 3 is the Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Microphone. A decent mic and good for digital recording. Bundles 2 and 4 come with an AKG Perception 200 Condenser Mic which has a bigger diaphragm and frequency range than the Audio-Technica.

There are some other differences like the Ignition Pack. Even though all the bundles come with it, the 2 higher priced bundle packs have a few more goodies like the IK Multimedia T-RackS EQ plug-in. This is an excellent EQ and mastering tool which alone sells for about $300. Still, they all include some excellent software like Reason, Ableton Live, Sampletank, and Amplitube.

Like I said, for someone who wants to get recording on Pro Tools right away with everything you need and more, then one of these Digidesigns Pro Tools Bundles has your name on it.

Oh… and they all come with a mic stand and cords!

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Check Out Digidesign Mbox 2 Mini Portable Audio Workstation 2009 Educational Edition (Standard) for $229.00

20 06 2010

Digidesign Mbox 2 Mini Portable Audio Workstation 2009 Educational Edition (Standard) Review

Digidesign Mbox 2 Mini Portable Audio Workstation 2009 Educational Edition (Standard) Feature

  • ..

Digidesign Mbox 2 Mini Portable Audio Workstation 2009 Educational Edition (Standard) Overview

This educational edition of Digidesign Mbox 2 Mini Portable Audio Workstation is priced for educators who want to make their classrooms a more professional music production and editing settings.Digidesign Mbox 2 Mini is an incredibly compact and easy-to-use USB Pro Tools LE audio workstation. Mbox 2 Mini is an ideal solution for beginners (like your students) getting into recording music on their computers or learning how to work with a mobile Pro Tools system. The Mini has two channels of simultaneous analog I/O, 24-bit/48kHz sound quality, an XLR jack with 48V phantom power, two 1/4″ line-/instrument-level jacks, zero-latency monitoring, two 1/4″ monitor outputs, headphone jack, and front-panel volume and mute controls. The compact design makes it perfectly portable, as does the USB-bus power support.The Mbox 2 Mini also includes Pro Tools LE software with over 50 effects and instrument plug-ins from Bomb Factory, Digidesign, and more. There’s enough here to get your pupils off and running, making music any which way they want.

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Great Price Digidesign for $779.00

11 05 2010

Digidesign Mbox 2 Pro Firewire Interface with Pro Tools LE Software Review


..but it’s a challenge and one you must be up to. I feel the pain of the previous post. Pro Tools was the most difficult and non-intuitive software install I have ever performed. I rue the day I have to re-install for any reason. Even once it’s up and running the depth and complexity of Pro Tools isn’t for the faint of heart. But once you begin to use it and understand it you find yourself thinking in new ways because the program’s power invites you to do so.

I’ve been a CoolEdit/Adobe Audition user for years and while AA (even 2.0) is easy to understand it’s also very limiting in scope. Pro Tools can take you places you’ve never considered going. It gets into your head like a great PC game or a good book; you just keep wanting to explore.
I suggest getting Pro Tools 7 Power: The Comprehensive Guide and Pro Tools LE7: Ignite, both available here at Amazon. You’ll also need a basic understanding of studio recording or at least know someone who does.
Having these assets in hand before beginning is very helpful.

Becoming a Pro Tools user is taking a step into a larger world. Best you be up for it.

Digidesign Mbox 2 Pro Firewire Interface with Pro Tools LE Software Feature

  • Award-winning Pro Tools LE recording, editing, and mixing software
  • Professional sound quality
  • Powered by FireWire or included power supply
  • Supports up to 24-bit/96 kHz resolution
  • 2 instrutment DI inputs on the front panel

Digidesign Mbox 2 Pro Firewire Interface with Pro Tools LE Software Overview

The Digidesign Mbox 2 Pro is a portable, high-definition audio/MIDI production system that delivers truly professional sound quality. Packing impressive variety of connection option to allow 6×8 simultaneous channels of I/O into a compacct interface. Mbox 2 Pro puts powerful multitrack recording and mixing capabilities into your hands, so you can create wherever inspiration strikes. Mbox 2 Pro also includes award-winning, industry-standard Pro Tools LE software, over 50 effects and instrument plug-ins, and the Pro Tools Ignition Pack a collection of powerful tools to get you started creating right away. Free upgrade to Pro Tools LE version 8! Anyone who purchased 7.4.2 since October 3rd gets a free upgrade to version 8 (now shipping) as a free download. Version 8 features a gorgeous new interface, dozens of new plug-ins, five new virtual instruments and more! Click here for more information on Pro Tools LE8! Mbox 2 Pro Factory – Get even more plug-in choices right out of the box for a mere 0 more! Mbox 2 Pro Fectory features five additional Digidesign and Bomb Factory plug-ins, plus an iLok USB Snart Key, which customers will need to authorize the plug-ins. Mbox 2 Pro Fectory plug-ins include: Digidesign Maxim: A must-have, world-class peak limiting and sound level maximizing plug-in that optimizes the overall audio levels while preserving the integrity of the original sound. Bomb Factory Moogerfooger Analog Delay: A warm delay meticulously based on bob Moog’s classic analog design. Bomb Factory JOEMEEK VC5 Meequalizer: An equalizer that rec

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The advantages of Remote Support Network

28 04 2010

There are many times that applications have a computer and technical support needs to solve the problem. Sometimes, however, the technical support staff or not have time to get to the site, travel, or simply do not want. However, remote network support a way to solve this problem. But what is the remote network support?

Many people do not have to believe, but you can connect to another computer and the remote control of his desktop. Thisas if you stand there on your computer to manipulate symbols, applications and programs. It 's really an amazing technology, and just like any other application software, there are several ways to go about it.

The fact is that there are about thirty different applications of remote support network are, and some are better than others. One of the most popular out there is VNC, and the Personal Edition is completely free. If you want to use a large networkHowever, you must purchase a Business Edition of the product. If someone really is another story.

If Windows XP was released, it came with your Remote Desktop software. He worked at some point, but sometimes you have problems with login, but other than that it worked, provided that you could do on the desktop. Believe it or not, though, this is not where you start the remote support network.

You might be surprised to learn that afterNetwork support was not always a bargain graphics. Actually, it started with a well-known program called SSH, which used the Linux operating system, at least in public anyway. In those days, running a command line interface has been, which means it requires precise control and knowledge of the operating system.

It 'much easier access to another computer, although there are many safeguards in place with most programs. For example, bothComputer, you need the remote access software to be installed for a job. There is the possibility of using a password, but if you do not want a password enabled, you can provide direct access.

There are so many advantages of this type of software. It also provides technical support worker to work on multiple computers simultaneously. Overall, it saves money, what should a good company is all. Take a look at some of the different options out there and see what issuits needs. Remember that there are many different software packages for each selection, some of which are options that you need and some do not.

For example, you may find some of these remote access packages, which can chat back and forth between computers, which can help in cases of technical assistance. There are some who are very interested in this feature, and who could care less. It all depends on who you are and what you do. Sun to find out whatIt is necessary and start shopping.

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Great Price Digidesign for $499.99

24 04 2010

Mbox 2 Factory Bundle Review

Mbox 2 Factory Bundle Feature

  • a complete Mbox 2 system plus a set of potent Digidesign and Bomb Factory plug-ins
  • moogerfooger Analog Delay
  • JOEMEEK SC2TM Photo Optical Compressor
  • Cosmonaut VoiceTM, Digidesign® MaximTM
  • Also includes DVD Tutorial!

Mbox 2 Factory Bundle Overview

For added creative processing options right out of the box, Digidesign presents the Mbox 2 Factory bundle a complete Mbox 2 system plus a set of potent Digidesign and Bomb Factory plug-ins (a retail value of more than ,050!) with an iLok USB Smart Key that has those plug-ins preauthorized. Mbox 2 Factory plug-ins include: moogerfooger® Analog Delay JOEMEEK® SC2TM Photo Optical Compressor JOEMEEK VC5TM Meequalizer® Cosmonaut VoiceTM Digidesign® MaximTM Mbox 2 Features Superior sound quality Four simultaneous inputs with analog and digital I/O Two analog inputs (XLR and 1/4in. jacks) and two analog outputs (1/4in. jacks) Two channels of S/PDIF digital I/O (RCA) 48V phantom power for condenser mics 24-bit/48 kHz audio MIDI in/out Zero-latency monitoring 100% USB powered Award-winning Pro Tools LE software (Windows XP and Mac OS X) o 32 simultaneous audio tracks (128 virtual audio tracks) o Integrated MIDI sequencer with 256 simultaneous MIDI tracks o 37 DigiRackTM and 7 Bomb Factory® plug-ins Includes the Pro Tools Ignition Pack software and tools Support for streaming ReWire applications Beat DetectiveTM LE groove analysis and correction tool.

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Three Quick Steps to Remove and Avoid Spyware

15 04 2010

Spyware is a modern scourge that’s easily among the top 5 computer security concerns. Some forms that actually spy on you live up to the name “spyware”, while others can infect almost like viruses; hijacking your browser and causing havoc on your computer.

Spyware is here to stay, which means you must regularly scan for spyware in addition to vigilance and taking normal internet safety precautions.

There are three important steps to avoiding spyware:

1. Install and Run an Anti-Spyware Program – The choices are endless, but popular anti-spyware tools which just happen to be free include Windows Defender, which may already be installed on your newer versions of Windows; Spybot Search and Destroy, which is a common and highly regarded recommendation, and Lavasoft’s Adaware, which is free for personal home use. Download one of these programs and install it as soon as possible.

2. Update the Spyware Database – After downloading anti-spyware software, you should start by updating the database of spyware definitions that come with the installation. New spyware is created daily and your programs need to have the most current updates to remain effective. Most programs have update functions that will locate and install the latest databases automatically; make sure that this feature is enabled.

3. Run Regular Scans – Many anti-spyware programs will work automatically, which means once installed it goes to work checking your computer and will perform a complete scan daily. However, for those programs that don’t have a regular scan as the default, you need to make sure to go in and set up a daily scan schedule so that the anti-spyware tool you’ve selected scans regularly.

Additional Notes

Many anti-spyware packages have advanced protection that can prevent spyware from installing. These programs may lock your browser home page so that you must approve any change, or simply not allow it to be changed. Some packages may also lock the “hosts” file – a common spyware target. These protections are valuable and should be turned on.

It’s unfortunate, but there really is no single “best” anti-spyware program. Each operates differently and will catch some things others may miss. The best option is to select one to run as recommended, and perhaps have others “on call” for those times when spyware makes it past.

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Mbox 2 Information

12 04 2010

Basics

Complete Digidesign Pro Tools | LE based portable studio Mbox 2 is a high quality professional audio interface for beginners because they offer a simple solution with the recording quality and technology of Digidesign. Mbox 2 is compatible with all protocols Pro Tools | HD, but the Pro Tools | The software that comes with the Mbox 2 includes many great features that Pro Tools| HD includes – The # 1 Software used by the best professionals in the world.

The Mbox 2 is compatible with Windows XP or Mac OS X, and uses a powered USB port to connect to your computer. It also has a removable front panel, so you can be one with the portability or another standard, in which the interface session can be handled either horizontally or vertically. This product is cheaper and very small audio interface Digidesignprovides a way to get your creative system of musical ideas of high-quality Digidesign Pro Tools | LE.

Essentials

The Mbox 2 includes many powerful options and a great stage than other products of its kind on the market. You can also go directly to your MIDI interface to it to be ready without any problems – and just in your WoW. The Mbox 2 is 2 with 2 analog input channels – Input 1 and input.Each channel has an XLR microphone guitar, an input for your bass amp and is connected – no, absolutely nothing between the guitar and the Mbox 2 and a line for you in a piano keyboard or digital mixer.

Features

Impressive, high quality sound
Two channels of S / PDIF digital I / O (RCA)
Two analog inputs (XLR, 1 / 4 "Line-In, 1 / 4" jack)
Two analog outputs (1 / 4 "jack)
Four simultaneous inputs and outputs(Analogue and digital I / O)
48V phantom power
Midi in / out
24 kHz audio bit/48
Zero-latency monitoring
Powered USB

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Properly Cleaning Your Computer

11 04 2010

A regular cleaning of your computer means a considerable improvement in its effectiveness. You should dedicate 20-30 minutes every 3 months to clean your computer. Here are a few tips:

- Computer keyboard cleaning. Your keyboard gathers a lot of dust and dirt. The keys become sticky and slow down your speed. First, unplug the keyboard when you clean it.

Turn it upside down and shake well to remove crumbs and dirt. Clean the keys using a soft brush or a can of compressed air while holding it upside down. Clean the key tops with a damp cotton cloth using either a mild detergent or rubbing alcohol.

Do not spill liquid over it. If you do so, then wipe it off immediately and let it dry completely. It is a smart idea to keep your keyboard and monitor covered with a cloth when you are not using them.

- Cleaning computer mouse. Take off the cover at the back of the mouse by rotating it anti-clockwise. The ball will come out. There are two thin wheels. Use your fingertips to scratch out the dust that is sticking there. Also shake out dirt that gathers in the hole.

You can wipe the wheels with a mild cleaning agent. Wipe off the ball well with a wet cloth. Use a mild detergent to clean the outside of the mouse. Dry with a soft cloth. Put the ball back into your mouse and close it up.

- Cleaning computer monitor. Use a cloth dampened in water. Do not use detergent or other liquid. Be careful especially with laptop screens that are very sensitive. The strokes should be top to bottom. Paper cloths are highly recommended for monitor screens to avoid any damage.

You can use a mild detergent for the cover. For holes at the back of the cover use an air can spray to take out dust. These vents should be cleaned to avoid overheating of the monitor.

- Remove the case and get to the area where all the hardware parts are located. Cleaning this area is important. Use an air spray to blow out all the dust gathered here. Always ensure that the spray is held in an upright position and blow the dust out of the machine. Everything should be unplugged and avoid any physical contact with the components.

- For CD-ROM drive use a CD-ROM cleaner available with retailers. Cleaning the CD drive prevents reading and writing errors. To clean your CDs just wet a cloth in water and rub it from center to the edge to avoid any scratches.

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Great Price Digidesign 9900-39149-02 for $699.00

8 04 2010

Digidesign Mbox 2 Pro Firewire Interface with Pro Tools Le Software (Factory Bundle with Digidesign/ Review


..but it’s a challenge and one you must be up to. I feel the pain of the previous post. Pro Tools was the most difficult and non-intuitive software install I have ever performed. I rue the day I have to re-install for any reason. Even once it’s up and running the depth and complexity of Pro Tools isn’t for the faint of heart. But once you begin to use it and understand it you find yourself thinking in new ways because the program’s power invites you to do so.

I’ve been a CoolEdit/Adobe Audition user for years and while AA (even 2.0) is easy to understand it’s also very limiting in scope. Pro Tools can take you places you’ve never considered going. It gets into your head like a great PC game or a good book; you just keep wanting to explore.
I suggest getting Pro Tools 7 Power: The Comprehensive Guide and Pro Tools LE7: Ignite, both available here at Amazon. You’ll also need a basic understanding of studio recording or at least know someone who does.
Having these assets in hand before beginning is very helpful.

Becoming a Pro Tools user is taking a step into a larger world. Best you be up for it.

Digidesign Mbox 2 Pro Firewire Interface with Pro Tools Le Software (Factory Bundle with Digidesign/ Feature

  • Professional sound quality
  • Supports up to 24-bit/96 kHz resolution
  • 48V phantom power for high quality condenser microphones
  • 6 simultaneous inputs, 8 simultaneous outputs
  • Powered by FireWire or included power supply

Digidesign Mbox 2 Pro Firewire Interface with Pro Tools Le Software (Factory Bundle with Digidesign/ Overview

The Digidesign Mbox 2 Pro is a portable, high-definition audio/MIDI production system that delivers truly professional sound quality.Packing an impressive variety of connection options to allow 6×8 simultaneous channels of I/O into a compact interface, Mbox 2 Pro puts powerful multitrack recording and mixing capabilities into your hands, so you can create wherever inspiration strikes. Mbox 2 Pro also includes award-winning, industry-standard Pro Tools LE software, over 50 effects and instrument plug-ins, and the Pro Tools Ignition Pack a collection of powerful tools to get you started creating right away.Free Upgrade to ProTools LE Version 8!Anyone who purchased 7.4.2 since October 3rd gets a free upgradeto version 8 (now shipping) as a free download.Version 8 features a gorgeous new interface, dozens of new plug-ins,five new virtual instruments and more!Click here for more information on Pro Tools LE 8!Mbox 2 Pro Factory – Get even more plug-in choices right out of the box for a mere 0 more!Mbox 2 Pro Factory features five additional Digidesign and Bomb Factory plug-ins, plus an iLok USB Smart Key, which customers will need to authorize the plug-ins. Mbox 2 Pro Factory plug-ins include:Digidesign Maxim: A must-have, world-class peak limiting and sound level maximizing plug-in that optimizes the overall audio levels while preserving the integrity of the original sound.Bomb Factory Moogerfooger Analog Delay: A warm delay meticulously based on Bob Moogs classic analog design.Bomb Factory JOEMEEK VC5 Meequalizer: An equalizer that rec

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