Multimedia Corner

Where Music Creativity Begins

If your multimedia creation efforts require original or custom music, you either will need to contract with an outside sound lab, or get a computer based sound management tool. One of the oldest software companies producing this type of software is the Nasdaq listed firm, Midisoft Corporation (MIDI). Their Midisoft(TM) Studio 4.0 for Windows 95 product has a powerful list of features packaged in an intuitive Windows-based interface.

Using the product, you can record and arrange multi-track compositions. It is easy to add lyrics to your music, and to integrate sound effects, vocals, and other waveform files into your MIDI tracks. The system also allows you to create your own sound effects, and build compositions one track at a time. If you want to use outside MIDI sound, you can record, experimentally modify, and play either from on-line or Internet sources.

The MIDI music, that is being recorded or played, is instantly displayed in real-time musical notation. Stock music can be inputted into the system to allow your musical experts to add the accents necessary for your production. You can record, mix, and synchronize tracks of your music with your mouse and the multi-track display. You can loop, punch, splice, and overdub to aid in either composition or editing. The step play/record mode allows you to review complicated passages.

Each song can have as many tracks as the computer memory will hold. Up to 16 MIDI ports can be addressed in real time. The mixer view element allows for instant control of loudness, balance, mute, solo, and instrument assignments. The quantize and humanize features can be used to adjust rhythm.

The package offers a unique piano roll display' screen for those who do not read music notation. This allows users to work with MIDI music, sounds, vocals, and effects without taking a masters degree program in music. The Midisoft Studio 4.0 for Windows 95 product is the firm's high line offering. They also offer a line of MIDI sound control products for personal and home use.

The title, Midisoft Studio 4.0 for Windows 95, is somewhat misleading since it will actually operate on the older Windows 3.1 16-bit operating system. The CD-ROM version of the package has 32 and 16-bit versions for Windows 95/Windows NT and Windows 3.1, respectfully. The 60 Mb of sample music ranges from opera to experimental acid rock. The package bypasses the Install Wizard of Windows 95, but it does include an uninstall program that works to remove every trace of the program from your system.

Midisoft(TM) Studio 4.0 for Windows 95 requires a 386 or better CPU, 8 Mb of RAM, 3 Mb of hard disk space (much more if you store raw waveform sound files), a Windows compatible sound card (or a MPU-401 MIDI interface card and a MIDI instrument), and Windows 3.1 or later. A microform is supported for acoustical recording, and the product is available on either 3.5 disks or CD-ROM. Contributed by C. W. Mann, who also writes the syndicated computer column, BuzzBytes.

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