VeeshanVault

If anyone here dabbles in the field of Music production, do you know of some good software for a PC? I used to use Audacity in combination with some Xilisoft software, but it doesn't really fit my needs. Im looking for something as close to GarageBand for the MAC as possible.

Basically i am looking for a program where i can use loops as well as create my own beats and rhythms to place into a track. Any incite would be helpful.

Sony Acid Music Studio if you're on a budget. $55

Sony Acid Pro if you're not. $375

http://www.sonycreativesoftware.com/pro ... family.asp

I have tried that before and it wasn't quite what i was looking for.. Would you say its better than Adobe Audition v3? That is the most likely one i'm looking at right now. But if i can get resold on ACID Pro, i still own it and can always just install it on this PC. The UI was too clusterfucked, and i'm used to Adobe style programs due to my Graphic Arts degree, so thats why im looking at Audition now.

The only other program of this kind that I've used is GarageBand.

For loops and beat construction, Acid is considered to be the tops.

You may also want to give Pro Tools a look, although I have no personal experience with it.

I think it's geared more towards live instruments and vocals and such.

Pro Tools is definately more recording oriented.
Is your request of being as close to GarageBand with regards to interface? As I understand it (no personal experience) GarageBand is a simple/basic do-it-all.
If you can possibly expand a bit, on what you're wanting to do, what you want out of the software, and how you're planning on interfacing...i can try to recomend something else. But the original recomendation still stands: If you're wanting to do loops on a PC, there is nothing better than Sony Acid.

Pro Tools is also a pain in the ass to use. Forgot to add that.

If you're looking for something that is as simple/easy to use as Garage Band. I've heard many comparisons in that area for Mackie's Tracktion (i have never used it tho).

Another good option for drum programming, etc. is Cubase. It's a full service recording software, but their drum/beat interface is a notch above the rest.

How about Sonar? Or is that just for tracking?

Cubase (whether 4.1 or SX) really is a good tool for all sorts of musicmaking and merryment. It also has the advantage of being ridiculously well supported by other users, and there are tons and tons and tons of forums and guides out there. The learning curve for 4.0/4.1 is a little steep but still...

Other good options are Reason (much like Cubase in being a full suite of sequencing/sampling/recording software), Ableton Live (good for looping) or FruityLoops (no experience with this, just from what others say).

It all depends on exactly what you're looking for. Getting the full pack of studio software would be overkill if you're just looking for stuff to fiddle around with beats and loops.

You might also want to check out this thread: http://www.veeshanvault.org/forums/view ... 12&t=21101