There are lots of ways to make music – from precise, deliberate composition to live performance and freeform improvisation. You might want traditional, linear multi-tracking or you might want to just experiment and jam. The good news is you don’t have to choose. Merging the realtime, experimental approach of loop and phrase based composition with traditional, linear multi-track style production, SONAR X1 is specifically designed to offer the best of both worlds.
In this seven part series you will see a song created from scratch using non-linear components like audio and MIDI loops and linear recording. The video is a playlist so each part will automatically play. The tutorial was created in SONAR X1 Essential but keep in mind the techniques apply to the Studio and Producer versions of SONAR X1 too.
Topics covered and more information:
Studio composition with the Step Sequencer
The Step Sequencer is a staple of electronic music and SONAR has one of the best available in any DAW. Completely integrated and immediately available from any softsynth, simply point and click to enter steps and use the built-in controls to dial in just the right feel.
Using loops for studio composition and live performance
Just about any style of music uses loops these days and all versions of SONAR X1 come packed with over 3,000 MIDI, Wave and REX loops from content providers like Sample Magic and Loopmasters. Use loops in the Matrix View, with softsynths and directly in the Track View.
Live performance and studio composition using the Matrix
Break free from laying out song parts with your mouse in the Track View. The Matrix offers a modern, non-linear approach to composition. Fill it with any combination of loops, phrases, and one-shot samples and then perform these parts in realtime with flexible live triggering modes. Experiment with endless combinations and possibilities – and then capture the results directly to the Track View.
Using soft synths for studio composition
SONAR X1 comes loaded with literally thousands of inspiring and useful instrument sounds. You can Insert a softsynth by just dragging it from the Browser and many of SONAR X1’s softsynths come with a library of MIDI patterns that you can drag and drop directly to the Track View for quick and easy arrangement of instrument parts.
Recording in the studio
Whether you are working on hip-hop, rock or electronica, at some point in the production process you will probably want to record a live instrument or voice. Thanks to SONAR X1’s flexible workflow, you can add audio tracks and buses and change routing anytime inspiration strikes. SONAR X1 delivers pristine sound quality with Studio and Producer versions featuring the 64-bit Double Precision Audio Engine for unsurpassed audio fidelity.
Production tools for studio composition
A wide world of editing and production possibilities awaits you. The Smart Tool enables smooth and creative editing by automatically offering up just the right tool for the job, no matter which view you are working in. An outstanding collection of versatile and intuitive effects processors is built right in, from the Essential Effects suite to Producer’s epic ProChannel. Full automation of every control gives life to a mix and a modern, professional sound to your music.
Live performance and studio composition using soft synths
Just like capturing audio, recording and performing with softsynths is fast and easy. SONAR X1 has literally thousands of instrument sounds to suit any musical need. Tweak controls, add audio and MIDI effects, use the built-in Arpeggiator and capture the entire performance – all in realtime.
Watch more SONAR X1 tutorials on CakeTV.
SONAR X1 Producer
The professional’s choice and leading digital audio workstation for the PC
