Rhythm Box
Price: £25 (RRP)
Pitch Innovations describes Rhythm Box as an essential sequencer that will help instantly create stunning rhythms using just a laptop keyboard. Each coloured shape within the software is mapped to a specific rhythm. The patterns are then performed using the number keys 1–8 on the computer keyboard. You can also create various synth patterns using the in-built sequencer. The software can be extended in various ways as you link it to other pieces of hardware (for example, a MIDI controller keyboard) but this is not essential. It is a fun environment to play in, there is a 15-day free trial, and the software is attractively priced too.
Sonuscore’s The Orchestra Elements
Price: FREE
Sonuscore has released a new version of its powerful scoring tool – The Orchestra. This is the software trusted by top composers for film, TV and games, which is now available for free. It comes with a carefully selected curation of instruments and is powered by its groundbreaking ensemble-engine. This version of the software includes 23 string, 8 brass and 8 woodwind articulations, together with harp and choir. Students can take their very first orchestral steps and create amazing music in no time at all! You will also need to download and install the free Kontakt player along The Orchestra Elements software.
Roland P-6 Creative Sampler
Price: £345 (RRP)
The P-6 Creative Sampler packs renowned Roland sampling technology into a small device with sophisticated sound design options and a powerful sequencer. Equipped with an onboard mic, intuitive controls, USB-C connectivity, and a versatile set of hands-on effects, the P-6 delivers exceptional sampling and performance capabilities. Whether using the built-in mic, analogue inputs, or a smartphone via USB-C, the P-6 can sample at a moment’s notice. After capturing sounds, you can quickly cut up longer samples into preset sections for triggering from the onboard keyboard. Alternatively, your students could build custom collections of multiple sounds with streamlined Step Sampling.
Boss ME-90B Bass Multiple Effects
Price: £199 (RRP)
The new Boss ME-90B is a great multi-effects unit for your bass guitar students. It delivers everything they would need, accessed via the classic BOSS ME interface for fast stompbox-style operation. Each effect category features independent parameter knobs, allowing them to tweak tones instantly. Manual mode provides on/off footswitch control of each category, while Memory mode lets them call up 36 custom multi-effect setups. Every footswitch has a different LED colour for easy identification, and it’s possible to set all LEDs to light in a fixed colour for each mode if desired.
