learning a new sequencer--advice anyone?

[stefancrs]

I think the best way to find out is to do a track in each host, and then compare the workflow. You can do the exact same track if you want to be really fair. Just do a quickie 8 bar track with 4~8 instruments. Explore the free instruments included with the host, add some VSTs, add some hardware synth stuff, do a live audio track with vocal or guitar, do MIDI editing, render to audio, add effects, add automation, mix down..etc.

After you've done a finished quickie track in each host, I'm sure you'll have some kind of preference by then. However, don't be surprised if you still can't make up your mind after that, because there are pros and cons in each host.

That test of yours would not be fair for the hosts if I was to do it. Which host I'm using affects what ideas I get etc, so I guess the first host would have an advantage because that one would be the one getting to influence how I write my song If I don't write it down on paper or something first, but that's not how I write music

[Lunch Money]

BTW, as far as I remember (I've gotten this one wrong once already recently, so it's worth looking into) there is no longer an upgrade path from VST5 to anything else, meaning your 'upgrade' will be the full price of Cubase if you go that route.

Still, worthwhile if you really adore it.

Greg

[klagga]

Here is my story:

http://www.kvraudio.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=72167

[lowkey]

Mike said he's using Logic on the PC because its comfy for him. Sequencer wars are pointless. Its just like arguing over what colour is the best or whats the best day of the week.

I hope it didn't come across as me trying to convert him or something, I almost feel embarrassed to admit I'm using such an "old"(!) sequencer.

No Mike it was a complement You have stuck with what works for you despite all the "And now it can tap dance" features software companies come up with. Alot of my favorite music was made using an Atari but I love them just as much.

The point I was trying to make is find what fits the way your mind works and go for it no matter what anyone has to say about it.

[snod911]

Thanks, all, for the great advice. I really appreciate your taking the time to help me out. I think I'm gonna stick with Tracktion for the time being--really like the way it works. Having not ever really used a traditional mixing console, I find the mixer metaphor in some of the "biggie" packages to be a little confusing.

John

[IIRs]

You probably made the right choice. I use Tracktion myself, and its easily the most inspiring environment I've ever worked in, IMO.

However, if you're a classically trained pianist, and you already own Cubase VST, you have the potential to view / edit traditional notation, which is not an option Tracktion provides (and probably won't appear in T2 either. At least I hope not, as there are many other features I want adding first!)

You can export MIDI files from Cubase for further work in Tracktion..

Don't feel pressured to upgrade to SX just because its the latest version: I earn my living prgramming MIDI with Cubase, but I still use VST as every version of SX I've looked at so far has been missing MIDI features that I use all the time: "up-grading" to SX would actually significantly slow me down.

I have no doubt SX's audio engine is much improved over VST's, but when it comes to MIDI the only feature I'm remotely jealous of is multiple levels of undo.. and I don't screw up badly enough to need that very often these days anyway!