MPC Beats
Price: Free!
The company behind the renowned MPC sampler beloved by Dr Dre, J Dilla and countless others has announced a free, entry-level DAW. The software has a 4x4 drum grid, a piano roll and a sample editor page. The interface bears a striking resemblance to the interface of the hardware MPC system so users can swap seamlessly between the two.
The software includes 2GB of samples and several software instruments for creating different parts. There are over 80 effects plugins included for professional sounding mixes once the beats are complete. Although not as fully featured as some other software, for those just wishing to dip their toes in the water of production and beat making, this could be a great first step.
DITTO+ Looper
Price: £109 retail
Looper pedals have been around for so long that everyone now makes one. However, one loop pedal has become rightly lauded for its simplicity and effectiveness and that is the Ditto from TC Electronic. TC has updated its base model and incorporated memory storage within the unit. Up to 60 mins of audio can be stored in the pedal and accessed as needed. The unit can also communicate via USB for import/export of audio.
The Ditto+ can also do lots of clever things like string existing loops together to allow you to record additional parts over the top, creating more complex patterns. An excellent tool for composition and improvisation, the Ditto+ looks set to maintain its position as the most straightforward loop pedal to use.
iRig Keys 2 Mini
Price: £79 retail
IK Multimedia has expanded its range of portable controller keyboards with the iRig Keys 2 Mini. The keyboard features 25 mini piano keys and useful hardware controls including octave up/down buttons and 4 assignable rotary knobs. The device is aimed at musicians on the go or for entry-level users. Compatible with all devices including mobile ones, the Mini features a headphone socket, which is particularly useful for the current range of Apple devices that don't come with one.
The iRig Keys 2 Mini incorporates a range of software including cut-down versions of IK Multimedia's flagship software Sampletank for both iOS and Android. For students who are looking for an affordable, entry-level controller, or for music teachers who don't have a dedicated space, this could be perfect.
Studio One 5
Price: Contact your dealer for education pricing
Studio One has gone from being a relative newcomer to the DAW market, to one of the leading pieces of software in the last 10 years. The latest version incorporates a wide range of upgrades. The biggest for the education market is the implementation of some features from its sister program – Notion. The ability to view scores within Studio One is going to help get the best sounds while simultaneously having beautiful scores. This could be great for coursework submission.
Additional new features include a range of new plugins and the ability to recall snapshots of mix settings to jump between different versions of a mix. The other big announcement is that this version can be used during live performance. It's the equivalent of combining Logic Pro and Mainstage in one package – great for school shows!
