Digital Audio Workstation (DAW)
This subject requires all students to purchase (or have regular access to) a software digital audio workstation (DAW). The recommended DAW for Mac and Windows users is Ableton Live Intro, version 8 or better.
The following DAWs may also be used, though only limited support and instruction will be provided: ProTools, Logic (Pro or Express), Cubase, Reaper, Digital Performer, Sonar, or FL Studio. You must consult with the instructor before using any other software.
Other Software Tools (Free or Open-Source)
This course uses the following free audio and music software tools.
| TOOLS | DESCRIPTIONS |
|---|---|
| Audacity® | Waveform editing software |
| Pd-extended | Pure Data (PD) is a real-time graphical programming environment for audio, video, and graphical processing. It is the third major branch of the family of patcher programming languages known as Max. Pd-extended is an easy-to-install Pure Data package of libraries, extensions, and documentation. |
| Martingale | Collection of pedagogical computer music tools (abstractions) in Pure Data. |
flexatone h.f.p. is the front of composer and sound designer Christopher Ariza. This site provides free downloads of complete, un-cut, high-quality mp3 and ogg audio files of experimental concert, computer, and electro-acoustic music, as well as information about the music, music research, algorithmic music software, and on-line tools for music analysis and creation. Music on this site is distributed for free, without cost or registration; software on this site is either free or open source.
MOSS
The MObile Sound System (MOSS).
In-class activites and recording workshops use the MObile Sound System (MOSS). MOSS is essentially a professional recording studio without a room. It consists of two road cases on casters: one is for storing a laptop computer, audio equipment, and the patching interface, and the other is for storing microphones, headphones, microphone stands, speaker stands, power strips, cables and a snake.
This system can record, mix, or process 16 analog inputs and provide 16 analog outputs, all at 24 bit/96 kHz. The laptop currently runs Logic Studio®, Peak, and Max/MSP. 16 channels of high quality preamps are provided (8 channels of True Precision, 4 channels of full channel-strip functionality with EQ and compression, and two different types of high-quality two-channel preamps). The system can record up to 16 channels to the computer, and simultaneously or independently record 2 channels to a flash-based recorder. For overdubs, remote recording, or sending click tracks, 8-channel monitor mixes can be sent over CAT-5 cable to any of four personal mixing units. All I/O is available via front-mounted patch bays and panels, making custom setups as fast and convenient as possible.
The setup includes 6 small diaphragm cardioid microphones (AT4041), 4 large diaphragm multi-pattern microphones (AKG-414), 4 dynamic microphones (2 Shure SM57, 2 Sennheiser MD421), 1 ribbon (Royer R-101), 1 large diaphragm tube mic (Mojave MA200), 2 omnidirectional microphones (Earthworks TC20mp), and 8 stereo direct boxes. There are 16 microphones stands, a 16 channel, 100 foot snake, and plenty of microphone cables. For output, the setup includes 8 Yamaha MSR100s, 4 speaker stands, and a Mackie HD1501 600W powered sub.
Applications include recording in small and large spaces, with or without overdubs; multi-channel sound reinforcement and sound installations; interactive audio works and performances requiring a computer and audio I/O; and teaching recording techniques or providing sound reinforcement for a live-electronics ensemble of up to 16 performers.