November SoundBytes is here!
We are happy to not only welcome a new writer to our ranks, we are also featuring two guest writers who individually tell us about what it takes to make it in the music business. Our new writer will be guiding us through the secrets of synth patch construction, starting with a series of techniques for drum patch creation.
Other than that, there’s the usual fare, and a lot of it. Let’s start with synths. We have UVI’s massive offering Vintage Vault 2 to present – not in great depth since there’s so much there, but we give an overview of this impressive collection. Next there are some new modules for Softube’s Modular synth offering. VPS Avenger is a recent entry from a new player that seems serious about competing in this crowded space. Momentum is a loop machine with a considerable fun-factor. On a smaller scale (platform-wise, not sound-wise) is IKM’s Syntronik for the iPad. Then there’s Steinberg’s impressive hybrid synth/sample-player, HALion Sonic 3. Wrapping up this category is Factory from Sugar Bytes.
There’s plenty of sample library action as well, starting with the oh-so-refined Berlin Woodwinds. Not to be outdone, Spitfire Audio brings us Symphonic Strings Evolutions for cinematic orchestration intrigue. At the other end of the scale we have the Simple Jazz Bass from Fluffy Audio, the Indiginous Mandolin and Amplesound Ukulele, all elegant single-acoustic-instrument offerings. Finally, there’s the single-instrument, but far more aggressive, Heavier7Strings for metal guitar renditions originating on your keyboard.
Next we have some great mixing and FX plug-ins. Late Replies from Blue Cat Audio is a delay unlike no other and possibly the most versatile delay you will ever see. Virtual Soundstage from parallax-audio lets you construct a concert hall sound with ease in your mixing software. Ozone 8 and Neutron 2 are Izotope’s well-endowed solution for excellence in mastering and mixing respectively. There’s also Brainworx bx_console N for your consideration. Finally, we start a survey of the world of FX from Rob Papen, all available in the Papen Explorer bundle.
And of course our usual columns, including Ginno’s sound library recommendations, tablet audio technology, a notable freebie of the month, and more.
One final thing: we have a great giveaway this month, several free full copies of Heavier7Strings. Details provided on page one.
Enjoy!
Read it here:
http://soundbytesmag.net/