Switching from PC to Mac Options

[danielfschroeder]

I'll try writing this message again: After reading this site for six months (and looking unsuccessfully for a comparable Windows/music site--any suggestions?), I am still unsure that, given my needs I should purchase a Mac or a Windows machine. I would like to use my computer, software (as yet unpurchased) and Yamaha S80 keyboard for: 1)composition and arranging for various instrumental and vocal groups (and in writing out hard copies of my work), 2) production of demo CDs of my compositions with an approximation of the vocals and instrument sounds for which they are written, and 3) live performce on my S80, with myself as vocalist. I have little need at this point to incorporate exotic sounds which, as I understand it, many of the "plug ins" produce or to produce a CD with many analog input tracks. My wife owns a Windows based laptop, which I would like to network with. My teenage non-musican son will probably be sharing my computer (if I can truly keep him out of my files), or I may purchase a low-end desk top for his use, and network with that as well. For my situation would a Mac computer be highly recommended over Windows? In either case, what sort of music software and hardware would I need?

[Hoosker]

Hi - just found this site. Looks like I came to the right place.

I have been a Mac user since the Plus but have never had experience using MIDI. My wife just got an iBook (running OS 10.3) and wants to connect it to our Casio CTK 1000 (IXA Sound Source) which has MIDI in and out. (The Casio is about 7 years old and we have never used it with a MIDI connection.) I think I want to stay with OS X.

I am looking to find a relatively inexpensive USB interface that will work with the iBook and the Casio but am not sure what I need to know. I saw the Roland/EdiRol UM-1 and it sounded like it might work. Will this work with the Casio?

I also would like suggestions for software. We do not want to spend allot as this is just a hobby but she would like to be able to compose/arrange music on the keyboard then printout simple sheet music for an ensemble. She also pays Cello. Her friends play flute, drums, guitar and some times sax.

I have read about Harmony Assistant and Finale NotePad. Finale is a little to much money at $600! Do I need a MIDI sequencer?

Sorry if I posed too many questions. Any suggestions or advise on how to get started would be great.

thanks in advance,
Hoosker

PS. I could not agree more with the Webmaster’s post on the OSX interface!

[ricsimp]

EVERYONE needs a midi sequencer!!!

[dixiechicken]

First You'll need at least:

1) 1 computer
2) 1 midiinterface
3) 1 midi sequencer software
& and maybe
4) 1 music notation software
5) 1 digtal audio interface
& probably various external gear,
6) line mixer with good preamps & good vocalist microphone, microphone stand,
a small PA-system ( depends on where you actually perform ) etc.

Yes a Mac will almost certainly be a good choice for you. In the long run you will save time & money
because you will avoid a lot of hassles the PC-users gets plagued by.
Idea - if you buy a Mac with airport-card and a airport basestation.
Connect the basestation to your cable/adsl-modem.
Connect your wife:s windows laptop with an ethernet-cable direct to the basestation.
Voila almost instant network, your mac can be almost anywhere inside your house,
no network cable for the Mac.

Cheers: Dixiechicken

[Skeeep]

Congratulations on switching to the Mac. I am a longtime Mac user...since 1985. It is no doubt in my mind that if you wanna do creative work and want to do it on a more professional level, then the Mac is for you. I am also a long time Digiseign user and I can't suggest the Digi001 enough. It's dropped in price and is easily one of the best Digital Audio Workstations available for its price. And most important, with it you get Pro Tools: the best Digital Audio program in the world.

In terms of your needs, I'll agree with Dixie. You'll need a midi interface: I use the MOTU Midi Express XT. If you're just using one synth, you can get away without a midi interface if you get the Digi001. It has a midi in and out port.

It'll take you a few discussions and some more reading to get a firm grasp on what you should acquire. Take your time. Making the best initial purchase can save time, money and insanity later. And there's a good book out and other resources from Apple that will assist you make the transition from the PC to a Mac.

Peace.

homershines

for phat drum sounds & samples
contact me at homershines@yahoo.com