: I want to:
: - record samples from vinyl (& any source) to computer
: - edit (manipulate, clean up, enhance) & store samples
: - edit them into loop-based multi-track song program
: - perhaps add a digital synth/sound effects program

You could do all those things with a copy of Logic Audio or Cubase (being the main choices in my mind). I used Logic on a G4 which allows me to record from the audio input directly to the Hard Drive. I can then edit them (although not as good as a seperate editing program like peak or spark), add effects, eq. You G4 will more than likely exceed 40 mono tracks easily and you may squeeze in some eq's and Fx.

I could take sections of the audio and do many weird things from pitch changing to time stretching, reversing. You can then just drag the samples onto the main arrange window where ever you like. The scope is massive and basically does almost everything you could want.

As far as I know, there isn't a Logic Audio demo although you can find some free cut down versions of Logic on the front of some computer music magazines that would get you started. There is however a Cubase demo on this website that you could download and try. It is also compatible with the G4 velocity engine which makes it very quick. Go take a look in the download area under "Multitrackers"

Regarding synths and drum machines, I would have a look at a new Program called "Reason". It has an amazing array of synth and sampler emulators, effects and mixers with an Amazing 19" rack simulation. You can turn the rack around and replug everything. I have tried the demo and was suprised by it's competency. It has a loop machine in at as well. I ran one of the demo songs that has tons of Samplers synths etc... and the preformance bar showed the Mac was running at a quarter of it's capacity. hehe...There are also tons of other synths that are either stand alone or VST compatible pluggins which need another host program to run them (i.e. Cubase or Logic). Using a technology called re-wire. You can sync the tempo of programs like Reason with Logic and have it's own inputs on the mixer that can then be recorded or used to insert effects. The two programs would be stunning but will cost you a tidy sum. Try the demos of both of the programs. You'll have to search yourself though as I am quite tired now, it's late.

I have only mentioned 3 programs here and 2 of them do basically the same job. There are many others that people swear by and many other Synth pluggins, (some free!). The best thing is to choose you system and learn to use it, then use it. Have a look around at first but when you have found the software that suits you, then stick with until you know it inside out. You can then start to create properly.

Enjoy!

Steve...R

You can get a custom program. Others could do it for you.
Visit http://www.buysoftware.tk

Well if you want to really turn some tunes out on the ultra cheap tip download pro tools free.
Also try out cakewalk studio or emagics digital editor silver.If you want to be a dastardly sneak
go to asta lavista.com and explore searchwords such as cubase vst 32,sonic foundry acid 2.0, fruity loops, or propellor heads rebirth and reason programs.but if you find and download these illegally you have to spend an xtra lifetime in purgatory.

You may be having audio driver trouble? You may need to open Cubase's ASIO/MME setup options from the start>programs menue BEFORE opening Cubase. In these setup pages you should ensure your soundcard is selected for DirectX only. If not compatable the go the MME way otherwise set inactive everything in MME. Then lauch Cubase -with your fingers crossed!

steve

Yes Jim, 'Notation' software will allow u to do this as will many 'midi/audio sequencers' which are not only designed for Classical music like the former.

Look round www.sonicspot.com for an excellent data base of audio apps with reviews and screenshots.

steve

If u put a complete song in .wav format into an 'audio editor' like Cool Edit u can transpose/pitch bend the song into another key.

If u mean midi file transposition then u can load the file into a midi sequencer and simply change the pitch of whole song/each track individually often from the fader/mixing screen - this takes seconds.

steve

Yes there are quite a few apps u could do this with, this looks a good one -

'VirtuualSampler provides virtual MIDI-ports through the included MIDI driver and thus can be played live via MIDI keyboard or driven by any MIDI sequencer'

click software link near top of message board to find 'software sampler' section!

steve

First thing is to know about analog synthesis. Take a look at this <a href="http://www.geocities.com/SunsetStrip/Studio/5821/analog.html">article</a>

: i want to learn how to make good sounds with various soft synths can someone tell me good pages about this subjekt?

You sound like u need a lot of help! If Winamp just won't be nice for u why not try 'sonique'? It's a bit more interesting to look at and there are some quite amazing visual FX plugins available for it - http://sonique.lycos.com/
U know ofcourse that Napster has an mp3 player in it's Library?

steve

New album recorded on Quadrophonic Hi-Fi system in Hi-Bias mode.
....Another collector's item.

Get someone to pay for it for you. Christmas is coming up so you might get lucky!

Cheers
Geoff

: PLease tell me a way to register FRuity loops for free?