Calling Mac Using Music Makers

[tbz_ck]

Hi

I currently have a Yamaha Tyros keyboard that I have had since 2002. Unsurprisingly it's starting to sound a little dated and before I decide whether to chop it in for a Tyros 3 I wanted to explore the option of going down a computer based route (Mac + software + midi controller)

I'm not familiar with any of the music making tools available on Mac (as I've always used the sequencer on the Tyros to do my stuff), but am prepared to learn whatever I need to.

My requirements are:

• first class tone generation with the ability to play at least 5 instrument samples live at the same time (using keyboard split points)
• At least a 16 track sequencer that supports overlay, re-recording at any entry point, quantizing, musical scoring, addition of words etc, and it would be nice if it could produce guitar tabs/song sheets.
• The ability to generate the tones, AND record from the sequencer into .mp3 or wav format.
• I need a decent midi controller with 61 keys (weighted preferable) which has the ability to use buttons/sliders/pedals to change on the fly instrument selections (like registrations on the Tyros)

I'm thinking a 13" Macbook pro with a breakout box (which I don't know) and something like an M-Audio midi keyboard. For software, something like Logic or Ableton.

I'd be interested in hearing from people who compose, perform, and record using their Mac's and are willing to share their experiences.

A Tyros 3 is about £2500, so that is a budget MAXIMUM. Portability would be a plus point too.

Thanks

CK

 

[tbz_ck]

Thanks Arty

I'll mainly be using it for live use (nothing too serious as of yet), but I do compose a lot and want something that can be used in a studio also. I do want audio recording capabilities (to .mp3 or .wav is fine) and envisage no more than about 16 simultaneous channels. I have to be able to lay down tracks though, either one by one or a few at a time or both!

Not sure about Phantom power (is that required for all microphones?) so I'm open to suggestions.

I have a friend who is very proficient at Logic and he is prepared to give me pointers and lessons on it.

Cheers

CK

 

[tbz_ck]

I meant play back 16 simultaneously rather than record 16 simultaneously.

To record vocals I'd be using SM58 beta's. The majority of other instruments that will require recording will be generated by the Mac software anyway. I doubt I'd be recording many other instruments, save a trumpet on the odd occasion.

In terms of costs and equipment then, what am I looking at?

thanks
Ck

 

[tbz_ck]

Many thanks Arty.

This is really useful and will aid my research. I don't think I'll be buying quite yet (probably a few months off at least) but I wanted to weight the options of going down the mac route as opposed to splashing out on a Tyros 3

So £2000 is not an unreasonable budget then.....mmmm

Thanks again

CK