Expert: Andrew Scott - 8/3/2005

Question
I want to record music at home. I have only guitars and ols keyboard. Probably I will buy one of these new complex keyboards.
But first I want to try to record my music through a good software.
My question is:
1. Which software is more appropriate for my purpose?
2. I have no idea in theory of composition. Is there anysoftware that can automaticaly write the chrods for acommpaniement based on a tune? Or generate variations of a theme?
3. Is there any software that can transform music in written partitures? (from single guitar)

thanks

Answer
Hi Rick,

If you are wanting to start a home recording venture then it really depends on your budget and your computer capabilities.

Most computer recording software is pretty good, they all have their ups and downs. But they all need a fast processor, lots of hard drive space, lots of RAM - plus a good sound card. Recording at CD quality or above will eat up a hard drive. And if your RAM/processor are not state of the art - some software still hang up or freeze at times.

Cubase is popular as are several others that are not too expensive. Many of these software packages come bundled with other software that you can loop drum patterns/guitars/etc. So you can almost kill two birds with one stone.

I don't know of any software that writes chords based on written guitar tabs, but it may exist - I just haven't seen it. Most accompaniment software has some type of chord accompaniment based on root chords. If it isn't bundled with your recording software you can find it to purchase.

Make sure you get one with a pci interface to be able to plug your guitar/mic/keyboard into your pc. You also will need a recordable cd drive to mix to unless you just record to computer only.

Check this link to see some of the software and their specs they have:

http://www.musiciansfriend.com/srs7/g=rec/search?c=9132

There are over 30 different systems listed there - you can browse buy price and specifications to see if any will fit your needs. Make sure you read the pc specs required to insure your pc will be able to work with any recording software you look at.

Good luck!
Andrew