The Cakewalk Blog

30% off Z3TA+ 2 for Cakewalk synth owners through June 30th

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Tue, 18 Jun 2013 13:48:29 +0000

Z3TA+ 2 has been making a lot of noise lately and continues to be a favorite with critics and users all over the world. If you haven’t tried Z3TA+ 2 yet, you are missing out on one of the greatest synths of all-time. MusicRadar.com did a round-up of the 39 best plug-in synths in the [...]

Visit The New Cakewalk User Forums – Now with mobile version

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Fri, 14 Jun 2013 17:11:32 +0000

Cakewalk updates user forum Last week, we released an update to our forum which has received a very positive response from the user community. In addition to the new look and feel, the forum also improves support for mobile devices and new versions of Firefox and other browsers. If you are interested in talking about [...]

An Unorthodox Approach to Tracking Guitars with TH2 – Norman Matthew [MURDER FM]

Norman Matthew — Mon, 03 Jun 2013 21:24:12 +0000

REINVENTING THE STEEL Recording Guitars in this day and age can be a daunting task. With so much to choose from, the possibilities are endless, yet, with so much groundwork already being laid by artists, engineers and producers before us, what else is left to do and where can we go? Luckily, I found the [...]

Recreating Portal 2′s “Want You Gone” with Music Creator 6 Touch [Part 1: Drum Tips]

Jimmy Landry [Cakewalk] — Mon, 03 Jun 2013 16:17:08 +0000

[All customers who purchase Music Creator 6 Touch on Steam will have a Demo Project for the Portal 2 song "Want You Gone." We suggest that you open the Demo Project and follow along to best understand the concepts explained below. Click on any of the images below for a larger view.] One thing I’ve [...]

Music Creator 6 Touch now available for download on Steam

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Wed, 22 May 2013 19:37:46 +0000

If there is anything the Cakewalk crew likes as much as music, it’s computer technology. So, as you might imagine, we have more than our fair share of hardcore PC gamers. When the Cakewalk gamers found out that Steam (the enormous video game platform by Valve) was opening up to offer other computer software, we [...]

Recording and Mixing Our Signature Vocal Sound in SONAR X2 – Norman Matthew [MURDER FM]

Norman Matthew — Mon, 20 May 2013 18:12:46 +0000

Hey world, forget your Monday-hate and dive in with me to make the first day of the week a little less sucky and a bit more murderous. Henceforth, it’s NorMonday. So if you find crawling back into the grind a bore, let’s get board–maybe a little chitty-chat about production techniques, tricks, voodoo, esoterica and sleight-of-hand. No blahs here, just blast. MURDER FM has been blessed with some really nice [...]

Updated ProChannel Pack: Now Includes 4 ProChannel Modules & CA-2A T-Type Leveling Amplifier

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Wed, 15 May 2013 14:58:03 +0000

We are pleased to announce that we have updated the ProChannel Pack to include the new CA-2A T-Type Leveling Amplifer. Through May 23rd, you can download the new ProChannel Pack for only $149/£119/€149 (regular price if purchased separately is $276). Here’s everything you get with the ProChannel Pack: CA-2A T-Type Leveling Amplifier: Faithfully modeled after [...]

Buy any Roland interface, controller keyboard or synth and get Cakewalk’s SONAR X2 Studio for £59 (RRP £195)

Andrew Rossa [Cakewalk] — Wed, 15 May 2013 03:39:57 +0000

Attention UK customers: We have set-up an amazing offer through June 30th (or while supplies last). When you buy any qualifying Roland hardware, you can add SONAR X2 Studio for only £59. SONAR X2 Studio is a fully-featured DAW that includes all the tools, instruments and FX needed to create professional-sounding music. It’s the perfect partner to [...]

Cakewalk User Records a Cover of David Bowie’s “Space Oddity” in Space

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Mon, 13 May 2013 20:59:24 +0000

Published on May 12, 2013 by Chris Hadfield A revised version of David Bowie’s Space Oddity, recorded by Commander Chris Hadfield on board the International Space Station. Uploaded on Feb 20, 2012 by Larrivée Guitars Additional video of Chris Hadfield visiting the Larrivée Guitar factory in Vancouver, Canada – builders of the Space Station [...]

Murder FM Finds Their Way to Revolver Magazine with SONAR X2; New Single “We the Evil” Finding International Success

Jimmy Landry [Cakewalk] — Mon, 13 May 2013 19:05:27 +0000

The interesting and never-boring Texas-native front man of MURDER FM, Norman Matthew, will be guest appearing on the Cakewalk blog every other Monday (NorMondays) delivering music production tips, tricks and conditional evilness. As a seasoned producer/songwriter/instrumentalist, he will be delving into his bag of production wickedness to shed some interesting light on how he approached [...]

Free Platinum Samples Rock Legends Kit 3 with SONAR X2 Producer

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Wed, 08 May 2013 15:47:53 +0000

Free Platinum Samples Rock Legends Kit 3 with SONAR X2 Producer Now through June 30th, all customers who purchase or upgrade to SONAR X2 Producer will receive the new Platinum Samples Rock Legend Kit 3 free as part of the SONAR X2 Producer Content Club May-June giveaway. This kit was recorded by Grammy nominated recording [...]

Download new Music Creator 6 Touch Bundles and save on great sounds

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Tue, 07 May 2013 20:44:05 +0000

Music Creator 6 Touch makes it fun and easy to create original music or remix your favorite songs – with no musical experience required. Transform any Windows 7 or 8 computer into your own personal music studio. Music Creator has all the tools, loops, instruments, and FX you need to create, edit, and mix great [...]

Get Started with SONAR X2′s Inspector and Loop Construction View

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Tue, 07 May 2013 15:45:54 +0000

Two new SONAR X2 videos added to CakeTV We have posted two brand new videos on CakeTV that show you how to get started with the Inspector and the Loop Construction View. The SONAR X2 Inspector will save you valuable time when working on your projects. Access critical data from your project with the touch [...]

Cakewalk Customer Exclusive: Save over 50% with New Effect Bundles from PSPaudioware

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Mon, 06 May 2013 15:47:31 +0000

Save over 50% off the exclusive PSP Pack for Cakewalk customers We have partnered up with PSPaudioware to bring you an amazing, limited-time offer. Through May 23rd you can download the exclusive PSP Pack, created just for Cakewalk customers. PSP 3-Pack: PSP VintageWamer2 (reg $149): a high-quality digital simulation of an analog-style, a single- or [...]

International German Composer Jochen Flach Chooses SONAR X2: Interview from MusikMesse – Frankfurt

Jimmy Landry [Cakewalk] — Thu, 02 May 2013 03:37:11 +0000

Recently and fortunately, I had the opportunity to attend MuskMesse in Frankfurt Germany where I demonstrated the powerful workflow of SONAR X2a. Similar to The NAMM Show, MusikMesse brings gear junkies like you and me into one centralized location to discover all the new products for anything-music-creation. The one constituent factor I noticed that sets [...]

New Videos: Create Amazing Things with SONAR X2 and Intel Technology

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 19:26:59 +0000

Chuck Carr creates amazing content for Twisted Metal Chuck Carr is a multi-faceted game audio professional and accomplished musician for over 60 games and counting. Intel has put out a new video showing how Chuck Carr used SONAR X2, an Intel® Core™-based PC and SSDs in his creative process to create the soundtrack for the [...]

Final Day for April Specials on SONAR X2 – Plus Save 15% Off Storewide

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 14:51:57 +0000

Last day: Save 15% off anything at the Cakewalk Store thru April 30th Enjoy incredible savings from now through the end of April. Just use the promo code APRIL2013 to take an additional 15% off every product at the Cakewalk Store. Get instant savings on anything we offer including SONAR X2 upgrades, videos, instruments, FX, [...]

Free video tutorial with any SONAR X2 purchase in April

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Thu, 04 Apr 2013 16:10:44 +0000

Buy SONAR X2, get 9 hours of video tutorials for free ($40 value) SONAR X2 is a huge leap forward in DAW technology. From the Skylight interface, to the Smart Tool, to the ProChannel (Producer Exclusive) – almost every part of SONAR X2 has been enhanced based on feedback from customers and professional users. In [...]

Is Z3TA+ 2 the best synthesizer plugin in the world? Try it and decide for yourself.

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Wed, 03 Apr 2013 19:10:44 +0000

Well, ultimately that’s up to you, but there are plenty of reasons to argue that it is. First and foremost is the legacy of Z3TA+ Classic. Released over 10 years ago, Z3TA+ set the bar for modern analog style soft synths with unparalleled tweakability and waveshaping control. Z3TA+ was pumping out synth leads and fat [...]

Learn SONAR with Berkleemusic – enroll today for spring semester

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Tue, 02 Apr 2013 14:55:03 +0000

You can study Berklee’s renowned music production techniques directly from their renowned faculty members, in a collaborative online community of like-minded musicians. Learn to operate SONAR X2 Producer like a pro from anywhere in the world. Sample a free lesson in SONAR, as well as other areas of music production, guitar, music theory, and more. Learn more

Save time with FX Chain Presets – Plus Bonus FX Chains for SONAR X2 Producer users

Jimmy Landry [Cakewalk] — Fri, 22 Mar 2013 16:03:09 +0000

We all know the feature-set and workflow in SONAR X2 is world-class. It still amazes me that we can make Major Label sounding records in our homes these days as long as you have a good system, good enough ears and some good old fashion knowledge. The one feature I personally love that I think [...]

Remixing in SONAR: An MGMT inspired remix using SONAR X2 Producer and Z3TA+ 2

Lance Riley [Cakewalk] — Thu, 14 Mar 2013 15:30:04 +0000

While working as a Quality Assurance Engineer for Cakewalk I have the privilege and duty to test the latest builds before they are available to the public. While testing SONAR X2a and the CA-2A T-Type Leveling Amplifier I decided to work on an MGMT inspired remix of new song written by Cakewalk Graphic Designer Dan [...]

SONAR X1 & X2 Customers: Save $350 off the Waves Silver Bundle

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Wed, 13 Mar 2013 14:12:56 +0000

Exclusive offer: Save $350 off the Waves Silver Bundle Through a special arrangement with Waves, we are offering SONAR X1 and X2 customers the opportunity to purchase the critically-acclaimed Waves Silver Bundle (Native) for only $249 – save $350 off the regular price. Offer ends March 26th. Waves Silver, an affordable new collection, was designed [...]

Free AAS Sound Bank & Player for all SONAR X2 Producer Customers

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Tue, 05 Mar 2013 16:38:15 +0000

Now Available: Free Sound Bank and player from AAS When you purchase or upgrade to SONAR X2 Producer by April 30th, you can redeem one free Sound Bank courtesy of the SONAR X2 Producer Content Club. In March-April, you can take your pick and download one of the 12 available on the AAS store. Each [...]

4 features of SONAR X2 that make the musician’s life easier (New Videos)

Jimmy Landry [Cakewalk] — Thu, 28 Feb 2013 17:19:04 +0000

With all the powerful features of SONAR X2, it’s almost impossible for someone to know every single angle of the program. Even some of the simpler features have some not-so-obvious aspects that can make the musician’s life easier and more musically inventive. This is why we have created detailed videos for SONAR users to delve [...]

Designing Sounds for Cakewalk Synthesizers – Behind the Scenes at Digital Sound Factory

Tim Swartz [Digital Sound Factory] — Wed, 27 Feb 2013 17:09:10 +0000

When people ask me what I do for a living, it is often difficult for them to grasp the words; I record sounds and musical instruments that musicians use to create music. At Digital Sound Factory we breakdown the instrument to the fundamentals and capture the sounds that make up its character. Each note and [...]

Testing the CA-2A in the Real World: Three Reasons it’s a Must-Have Plugin for Mixing

Jimmy Landry [Cakewalk] — Thu, 21 Feb 2013 21:03:20 +0000

I was recently hired to burn the ole midnight oil and produce, mix, co-write and play just about every instrument on an EP for an artist out of NYC. The record is pretty cool, definitely fun to make, and it falls somewhere between Fiona Apple and Taylor Swift. Considering the genre, I figured it was [...]

Extended: Free TH2 Building Block Presets for SONAR X2 Producer Customers

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Wed, 20 Feb 2013 21:33:31 +0000

When you buy SONAR X2 Producer through February 28th, you will also get free TH2 Building Blocks presets created by Cakewalk’s Jimmy Landry. TH2 Producer is a powerful instrument with many tonal possibilities. Although it comes with some interesting presets, there is definitely room for more. These “building block” presets were designed in an exceptional [...]

There’s always more to learn about SONAR with new videos from Cakewalk

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Wed, 20 Feb 2013 17:42:30 +0000

SONAR X2 is hands-down the most powerful and comprehensive DAW we have ever made. With each new version of SONAR we aim to simplify workflow and make music production more efficient. Each upgrade also comes with brand new tools and enhancements that compliment SONAR’s core technology. SONAR X2 is no exception. See what’s new in [...]

Limited Time Offer: Music Creator 6 for just $19.99 plus free video guide

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Mon, 18 Feb 2013 16:48:36 +0000

Download Music Creator 6 for only $19.99 Music Creator 6 turns your computer into your own personal recording studio and includes everything you need to create, edit, and mix professional recordings. Whether it’s a cover of your favorite tune or an original composition, turn a simple idea into a finished song with Music Creator’s powerful [...]

Sale on all Dimension Pro/LE Packs plus new title from DSF

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Sat, 16 Feb 2013 21:46:03 +0000

Download DSF Expansion Packs for as low as $19.95 Stock up this weekend on DSF expansion packs for Dimension Pro/Dimension LE. The DSF collection features thousands of sounds for all types of music and genres. Included are Grand Pianos, Guitars, Basses, Classic Keys, Orchestral, Hollywood Sound FX and much more. Buy one or buy them [...]

Learning to Record Guitar on a Laptop… In Space!

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Mon, 11 Feb 2013 15:57:51 +0000

Cakewalk software is so essential to the recording experience that astronauts don’t leave earth without it! Future commander of the ISS, Chris Hadfield, visited the Larrivée Guitar factory in Vancouver, Canada – builders of the Space Station guitar. He talks about challenges of playing in the weightless environment and recording original music in Space using [...]

Free MultiTrack Drum Loops And New Drum Kit From Smart Loops

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Fri, 08 Feb 2013 19:13:03 +0000

Smart Loops is giving away one of it’s MultiTrack loop libraries completely free through February 28th. Smart Loops have done the hard work for you – recording superb sounding drum tracks. The great thing about MultiTracks is that you the option of using these loops as a stereo mix or choosing only the parts you [...]

Why Cakewalk’s CA-2A Made a Big Impression at NAMM 2013

Jimmy Landry [Cakewalk] — Thu, 31 Jan 2013 17:26:44 +0000

Every January, thousands of gear companies, PR professionals, artists, and gear-junkies converge in Anaheim, CA for what is known as one of the world’s biggest music festivals; The NAMM Show. If you have never been, it’s a playground for the musician where one can find everything from the latest boutique guitar amp to the newest [...]

Highlights from NAMM 2013: New Products from Cakewalk and Roland

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Mon, 28 Jan 2013 20:32:34 +0000

If you weren’t able to make it to sunny Anaheim California for the 2013 Winter NAMM show, you missed out on quite a show from Cakewalk and Roland. Ballroom A was packed with press, dealers, artists, and engineers hoping to get a look at our latest technology and new products. Cakewalk kicked off the show [...]

TH2 Building Blocks: 30 Free Presets for all SONAR X2 Producer Customers

Jimmy Landry [Cakewalk] — Fri, 18 Jan 2013 18:32:49 +0000

SONAR X2 Producer Content Club Bonus – Building Block Presets for TH2 Producer TH2 Producer is the new guitar module plug for SONAR X2 Producer. Being a guitar player since the age of 5, I’m very intrigued by guitar plugs and I was extremely excited to learn that we were working with Overloud on the [...]

Free 30 Day Groove 3 All-Access Pass for all SONAR X2 Producer users

Andrew Rossa [Cakewalk] — Fri, 04 Jan 2013 23:46:50 +0000

To start your new year off big, we have added a great new freebie to the SONAR X2 Producer Content Club. When you purchase or upgrade to SONAR X2 Producer by February 28th, you will get a code to access any video on www.groove3.com free of charge for 30 days. If you already own SONAR [...]

A Deeper Look at SONAR X2a – Native Windows 8 and Touch Support

Noel Borthwick [Cakewalk] — Fri, 21 Dec 2012 19:33:27 +0000

A few months ago I wrote an article about Windows 8 and how it applied to music applications like SONAR. In this article I will mainly cover what’s changed or new in our Windows 8 support as of SONAR X2a. What’s New ~ We shipped SONAR X2a, our brand new [...]

Free “Bells & Whistles” Bonus Holiday Pack for SONAR X2 Producer Content Club Members

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Tue, 18 Dec 2012 21:27:24 +0000

Free Dimension Pro Holiday Expansion Pack for all SONAR X2 Producer users Just in time for the holidays, we have added a new treat to the SONAR X2 Producer Content Club. When you purchase or upgrade to SONAR X2 Producer by December 31st, you will get the “Bells & Whistles” Dimension Pro Holiday Pack free [...]

SONAR X2 is a huge hit with the press – Read SONAR X2 Reviews

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Tue, 18 Dec 2012 19:50:22 +0000

SONAR X2 is a huge hit with the press The reviews have been pouring in from magazines all across the world and SONAR X2 is a certified hit with the press. We have put together a collection of the best pull quotes, with more coming in the next few weeks from other magazines. Music Tech: [...]

SONAR X2a coming soon

Andrew Rossa [Cakewalk] — Fri, 14 Dec 2012 23:37:23 +0000

We are pleased to announce that the SONAR X2a update is almost ready for release and will be available later this month. The SONAR X2a update is free to all registered SONAR X2 users and introduces many new exciting features including: Official Windows 8 support as well as Touch support for Intel-Inspired Ultrabooks and other [...]

Free SONAR X2 Videos, Plus 50% Off Live Training By OBEDIA

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Wed, 12 Dec 2012 17:01:40 +0000

Take your mixes to the next level with SONAR’s unique Skylight interface and an impressive assortment of virtual instruments and effects like the classic studio sound of the ProChannel console strip. OBEDIA’s team of experts is always ready to help you understand how to effectively use the Cakewalk SONAR line of software. Watch all 6 [...]

Save 30% off Select SONAR X2 Extras Through Dec 13th

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Mon, 10 Dec 2012 21:33:09 +0000

Give yourself a little something extra this holiday season Once you upgrade, customize your SONAR X2 setup with select extras and expansion packs – get 30% off or more. Fill up your mixing tool box with all 4 Cakewalk ProChannel Modules. Get premium drum kits for Session Drummer 3 from Platinum Samples, Sonic Reality, and [...]

Get Started with SONAR X2 – Watch Free Tutorial Videos Now On Cake TV

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Mon, 10 Dec 2012 17:43:42 +0000

Explore SONAR X2′s Skylight User Interface SONAR X2 takes its award winning Skylight interface to a new level. Learn the basics of Skylight and get up and running quickly with a brand-new CakeTV video series. The first four videos in the series show Skylight’s fundamental features including – workflow with audio and MIDI clips, zooming [...]

Free TH2 Bonus Content For All SONAR X2 Users Through Dec 31st

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Fri, 07 Dec 2012 19:09:36 +0000

Holiday Bonus: Upgrade to SONAR X2 and get FREE TH2 bonus content Our friends at Overloud have created a special bonus pack for all SONAR X2 customers this holiday season. Just purchase any version or upgrade to SONAR X2 today and then visit the My Account page on the Cakewalk Store. You can then download [...]

Craig Anderton shows you how to use the new Console Emulator in SONAR X2 Producer

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Wed, 28 Nov 2012 22:28:40 +0000

The ProChannel Console Emulator is one of the new features available exclusively in SONAR X2 Producer. Over the past year, the use of console emulation has become very popular with producers and engineers. A Console Emulator plug-in emulates some important analog console characteristics. While these effects are subtle, they’re noticeable; and now thanks to the [...]

SONAR X2 Producer receives Performance Award and 9/10 rating from Computer Music

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Wed, 14 Nov 2012 20:14:00 +0000

SONAR X2 Producer receives “9/10 rating” from Computer Music The December 2012 issue of Computer Music features a full length review of SONAR X2 Producer and the verdict is great. Here are just a few excerpts from their review: On Automation Lanes: “Automation Lanes come to SONAR and integrate beautifully with the Smart Tool for [...]

SONAR X2 Producer: A Must See Video Playlist

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Tue, 13 Nov 2012 20:58:32 +0000

Learn why SONAR X2 Producer is Cakewalk’s most popular upgrade ever. This playlist is packed with all the best SONAR X2 Producer videos in case you may have missed one. See what’s new in SONAR X2, try it for FREE, take a deeper look at the workflow enhancements and flagship features, then finish up by [...]

New Reason Rack Extension by Cakewalk: RE-2A Leveling Amplifier now available on the Propellerhead shop

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Fri, 09 Nov 2012 22:59:00 +0000

Faithfully modeled after one of the most sought after studio compressors in history, the RE-2A T-Type Leveling Amplifier brings the silky, smooth sound of this highly desirable unit right into Reason’s Rack Extension. Since the 1960s, professional engineers have relied on the unique characteristics of this electro-optical tube-based compressor to work its magic on all [...]

Remixing and Remastering with R-MIX SONAR – A Case Study by Noel Borthwick

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Mon, 05 Nov 2012 21:04:09 +0000

The following article was written by Cakewalk CTO Noel Borthwick and originally posted to www.noelborthwick.com on Oct. 27th 2012. Overview I recorded my first album with a jazz quartet in 1991. OMG, 21 years ago last century – has it been that long? The original recording was released on cassette tape (!) and is now [...]

FREE* Loopmasters 100 Artist Series Compilation Now Available

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Thu, 01 Nov 2012 19:58:40 +0000

FREE* Loopmasters 100 Artist Series Compilation Now Available The announcement of the SONAR X2 Producer Content Club has generated a lot of excitement from users. If you are a SONAR X2 Producer Content Club member, the next big Content Club freebie is now in your Cakewalk Store Account. *Please note: You must upgrade to SONAR [...]

Halloween Treat: Free Haunted EDM Rapture pack for all SONAR X2 Producer customers

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Mon, 29 Oct 2012 14:10:20 +0000

Halloween treat: Upgrade to SONAR X2 Producer and get Haunted EDM Just in time for Halloween, we have added a new treat to the SONAR X2 Producer Content Club. When you upgrade to SONAR X2 Producer, you will get the Haunted EDM Rapture Expansion Pack free of charge. Upgrade to SONAR X2 Producer today If [...]

Special pricing on popular SONAR X2 extras ends October 31st

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Fri, 26 Oct 2012 20:18:14 +0000

Last chance: Get special pricing on popular SONAR X2 extras Customers have been raving about the new Overloud effects included in SONAR X2 Producer, as well as the amazing video tutorials created by SWA and Groove 3. Through October 31st, SONAR X2 Producer customers can buy the full version of TH2 and BREVERB 2 for [...]

Learn Sound Design with Z3TA+ 2 – Free Video by Digital Sound Factory

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Mon, 22 Oct 2012 19:39:02 +0000

Z3TA+ 2 Sound Design By Timothy Swartz Digital Sound Factory Digital Sound Factory veteran sound designer, Timothy Swartz takes us on a tour of Cakewalk’s Z3TA+ 2 software synthesizer and how to quickly create interesting sounds. The video begins by explaining basic programming of Z3TA+ 2 envelopes, LFO’s, filters, modulators, and effects. As the [...]

72-hour sale: 50% off the PC2A T-Type Leveling Amplifier

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Fri, 19 Oct 2012 14:29:57 +0000

72-hour sale: Download the PC2A T-Type Leveling Amplifier for only $39.50 We are making the most popular ProChannel module available at an unbelievable price for the next 72 hours. Faithfully modeled after one of the most sought after studio compressors in history, the PC2A T-Type Leveling Amplifier puts the silky, smooth sound of this highly [...]

Cakewalk and Roland Rock at Rock ‘N’ Roll Fantasy Camp

Seth Perlstein [Cakewalk] — Wed, 17 Oct 2012 02:05:51 +0000

Are you ready to rock? Last week, over sixty campers said yes, and so did we, when Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy Camp opened its new facility just off the Strip in Las Vegas, NV. Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy Camp lets musicians live out their rock and roll dreams by being a part of a rock band that’s [...]

FREE Loopmasters 100 Artist Series Compilation coming Nov. 1st for SONAR X2 Producer Content Club Members

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Thu, 11 Oct 2012 00:13:23 +0000

FREE* Loopmasters 100 Artist Series Compilation coming November 1st The announcement of the SONAR X2 Producer Content Club has generated a lot of excitement from users. Here is another exciting update of what you can expect from the Content Club in November. *Please note: You must upgrade to SONAR X2 Producer in order to become [...]

Take control of your tempo with SONAR’s Audiosnap, Available in X2 Producer and studio

Mike Trujillo [Cakewalk] — Tue, 09 Oct 2012 20:54:00 +0000

SONAR X2′s AudioSnap engine and tempo analysis features give you unprecedented non-destructive rhythmic and tempo control over your audio. Employing sophisticated transient detection technology, the AudioSnap engine automatically analyzes all recorded and imported audio files for rhythmic content to determine where the beats are in the music. Included in X2 Producer and Studio, AudioSnap is [...]

Get Free Downloads With Your SONAR X2 Producer Content Club Membership

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Sun, 07 Oct 2012 17:34:54 +0000

Introducing the SONAR X2 Producer Content Club The free DSF Symphonic Strings promotion was such a huge success, that we decided to create a new program designed to reward all early adopters. When you upgrade to SONAR X2 Producer, you will automatically get a free membership to the SONAR X2 Producer Content Club. As a [...]

SONAR Users Get a Free Gobbler 25GB Account for 2 Months

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Sat, 06 Oct 2012 17:01:47 +0000

Get a Free Gobbler 25GB Account for 2 Months Adding their PC client earlier this summer, Gobbler has invited all SONAR users to sign up for a free account. Gobbler is an indispensable transfer, backup and organization tool built by musicians, for musicians. You can sleep better at night knowing your work is safely tucked [...]

SONAR X2′S Step Sequencer: Powerful, flexible and included in all versions of X2!

Mike Trujillo [Cakewalk] — Wed, 03 Oct 2012 18:40:56 +0000

The Step Sequencer is included in all versions of X2 and is fully integrated in to the SONAR X2 user interface design. Controls are easy to identify and use, and commands are easily accessible from dedicated drop down menus. SONAR X2′s Step Sequencer lets you create drum tracks, beats, bass, and synth lines with a [...]

Video: SONAR X2 – Transitioning From SONAR X1 (and earlier)

Seth Perlstein [Cakewalk] — Mon, 24 Sep 2012 19:04:33 +0000

Like many of you, we’re all fired up about the release of SONAR X2. And we’re pretty sure you’d like to know more about the core features, behaviours, and other day-to-day workflow operations that we’ve changed in X2 from X1 and older versions of SONAR. Below is a layout of those changes as well as a down and [...]

FREE DSF Symphonic Strings HD When You Buy SONAR X2 Producer

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Sun, 23 Sep 2012 23:06:42 +0000

Buy SONAR X2 Producer and get DSF Symphonic Strings FREE For a limited time you can download a Free Symphonic Strings expansion pack for Dimension Pro ($149 value) when you upgrade, or purchase SONAR X2 Producer from the Cakewalk Store or any worldwide retailer. This is a special offer to reward early adopters. Offer valid [...]

SONAR X2: The Take Lane Super Highway (Tutorial & Video)

Eli Krantzberg [Groove3.com] — Thu, 20 Sep 2012 14:48:08 +0000

SONAR X2: The Take Lane Super Highway By Guest Blogger Eli Krantzberg [Groove3.com] September 2012 The ability to loop record multiple takes over the same section of a song and choose the best bits after the fact is one of the defining elements of almost all modern DAWs. Layers worked just fine in X1, but [...]

New In SONAR X2 Producer: Scorching tones and killer effects with TH2 PRODUCER from OVERLOUD

Mike Trujillo [Cakewalk] — Wed, 19 Sep 2012 19:23:35 +0000

SONAR X2 Producer users rejoice. Now you can get awesome guitar tones and effects from clean and spanky to crushing metal with the new TH2 PRODUCER amp modeling plugin by Overloud! Included in SONAR X2 Producer, TH2 Producer contains ten different amps, eight stomp boxes, two rack effects, nine cabinets and three mics oozing with killer tone. No [...]

SONAR X2 Feature Peek: Why BREVERB SONAR Will Become Your New Go-to Reverb

Jimmy Landry [Cakewalk] — Sat, 15 Sep 2012 00:21:16 +0000

I finally had the chance to record and mix a full production in SONAR X2 Producer last week and one of my favorite new features is BREVERB SONAR. I knew it was going to be good, but I didn’t know HOW good. I found that out immediately when I sent the lead vocal track though [...]

Customize your studio setup around SONAR X2 in 3 easy steps

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Wed, 12 Sep 2012 21:25:10 +0000

If you are just getting started with SONAR, you could probably use some help figuring out which hardware to buy. If you are a long time user, maybe that audio interface you have been using since the days of Cakewalk Pro Audio could use an upgrade. Either way, Roland has created a simple and fun [...]

New in SONAR X2 Essential and Studio: Scorching guitar tones with TH2 SONAR from OVERLOUD

Mike Trujillo [Cakewalk] — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 14:13:58 +0000

SONAR X2 Essential and Studio users rejoice. Now you can get awesome guitar tones from clean and spanky to crushing metal with the new TH2 SONAR amp modeling plugin by Overloud! Included in SONAR X2 Essential and Studio versions, TH2 SONAR contains ten different amps, nine cabinets and three mics oozing with killer tone. No matter what sound [...]

CakeTV Live: SONAR X2 Webinar

Seth Perlstein [Cakewalk] — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 06:30:09 +0000

Last week was our fourth installment of CakeTV Live, which we broadcast bi-monthly, live, from Center Staging in Burbank, CA. In this latest episode we showed over 450 live viewers the new features of SONAR X2. In case you missed it, the webinar is now available for viewing on CakeTV (or right from this web page, below). During [...]

SONAR X2 Feature Peek: R-MIX SONAR (Video)

Jimmy Landry [Cakewalk] — Fri, 31 Aug 2012 21:30:08 +0000

I will never forget witnessing a demonstration of R-MIX software for the first time. Fast-forward a bit, and I will also never forget being in a meeting where I discovered that R-MIX was going to be incorporated into SONAR X2 Producer. Music production light-bulbs started going off in my head imagining what I was going [...]

SONAR X2 Feature Peek: ProChannel FX Chains

Seth Perlstein [Cakewalk] — Tue, 28 Aug 2012 09:24:17 +0000

Like many of you, we’re all fired up about SONAR X2. And we’re pretty sure you’d like to know more about what makes it so delicious. So, take a closer look at the newly refined, ever smarter, SONAR X2. What’s an FX Chain? FX Chains are an answer to a long standing feature request; to have FX bin presets, [...]

FREE SONAR X2 Webinar – September 5th

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Thu, 23 Aug 2012 15:57:42 +0000

FREE SONAR X2 Webinar – September 5th (2pm Eastern / 11am Pacific) Please join Brandon Ryan and Seth Perlstein of Cakewalk for the fourth installment of CakeTV Live, Cakewalk’s entirely live, bi-monthly webcast. This installment will take a close look at the new features and enhancements in SONAR X2 while focusing on recording, mixing and [...]

SONAR X2 Sneak Peek: Upgrade Pricing

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Wed, 22 Aug 2012 21:42:58 +0000

It’s been nearly 2 years since we launched SONAR X1 and the long anticipated SONAR X2 is almost here. If you are a Cakewalk user who is wondering what your price will be for this monster upgrade, have a look at the tables below. We also have a special offer for early adopters, which we [...]

SONAR X2 Feature Peek: Smart Grid

Brandon Ryan [Cakewalk] — Tue, 21 Aug 2012 17:44:08 +0000

What’s a snap grid? One of the most useful features of a DAW is the snap grid. When enabled, a snap grid locks all movement to a defined value. The value can be absolute (e.g. seconds) or musical (e.g. quarter notes) and some programs optionally show grid lines that reflect at least some portion of the grid. The whole thing [...]

Using Key Bindings in SONAR X1 – Free Map of SONAR X1 Key Bindings

Tara Zanett [Cakewalk] — Wed, 15 Aug 2012 17:39:33 +0000

Our friends at Roland Australia are big fans of SONAR X1. They asked us to share the post below on how to improve your workflow by knowing your Key Bindings. ********** Using Key Bindings can totally transform how you interact with your SONAR X1. There are hundreds of commands that can literally be placed at [...]

Improve your SONAR X1 chops – Save 50% off all SONAR X1 video tutorials

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Mon, 13 Aug 2012 16:46:39 +0000

Save 50% off all SONAR X1 video tutorials Now is the perfect time to improve your SONAR X1 chops. Through August 31st, you can download any SONAR X1 video tutorial and save 50% off the regular price. The Cakewalk Store features the very best learning resources for users of all skill levels. Don’t miss out [...]

Big Z3TA+ 2 News: Now on Mac OS X, Save 50% of sound packs, and new video tutorial

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Thu, 09 Aug 2012 15:54:53 +0000

A decade in the making: Z3TA+ 2 now available for Mac – only $99/£69/€79 For 10 years, Z3TA+ 2 has only been available for Windows…until now. We are pleased to announce that Z3TA+ 2 is now available for Mac OS X 10.6.8 and higher in VST3 and Audio units format. This is huge news for [...]

Watch Cori Yarckin compete on The CW’s new tv series, THE NEXT

Andrew Rossa [Cakewalk] — Wed, 08 Aug 2012 22:03:26 +0000

SONAR artist Cori Yarckin will be appearing on a new television show next Thursday, August 16 on The CW at 9/8c called THE NEXT. In the series premiere, Cori will be competing with 3 other Orlando based artists. In every city the show visits, each contestant will be paired up with a celebrity mentor, who [...]

Buy SONAR X1, get SONAR X2 for free

Andrew Rossa [Cakewalk] — Mon, 06 Aug 2012 17:27:09 +0000

From getting great tone to releasing a final mix, today’s musicians must master every element of the music production process. SONAR X2 Producer is there every step of the way, and the revolutionary Skylight interface lets you move seamlessly among the elements, instantly going from recording to editing to mixing and back again. Dial up [...]

Last chance: Cakewalk’s First-class upgrade ends July 31st

Andrew Rossa [Cakewalk] — Mon, 30 Jul 2012 19:31:52 +0000

From June 1st to July 31st, when you buy or upgrade to SONAR X1 Producer, Cakewalk will automatically bump you up to the flagship version, SONAR X1 Production Suite. Just purchase SONAR X1 Producer from any retailer or upgrade at the Cakewalk Store, and Cakewalk will take care of the rest. Just register your purchase [...]

Six new drum kits for Session Drummer 3 from Platinum Samples

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Sat, 28 Jul 2012 02:33:49 +0000

World famous engineers bring new drum sounds to Session Drummer 3 Platinum Samples is one of the leading providers of high-quality drum content on the planet today. They have made a name for themselves with unbelievable and precisely recorded drum samples, including the Andy Johns Kit for Session Drummer 3. Now they are back with [...]

Download the Sonitus FX suite for only $19.99

Andrew Rossa [Cakewalk] — Tue, 24 Jul 2012 20:45:27 +0000

The Sonitus FX suite is collection of 10 must-have FX for many of the most basic mixing needs. These classic FX plug-ins have been a staple in SONAR for many years and have received critical acclaim for their versatility and ease-of-use. Now you can use them in any VST-compatible Windows Vista/Windows 7 DAW (includes 32 [...]

How Tim Wynn used SONAR X1 to Create the Music for THE DARKNESS II

Jimmy Landry [Cakewalk] — Mon, 23 Jul 2012 14:23:34 +0000

SONAR X1 user Tim Wynn is the Quintessential modern day composer/producer, and a rising Hollywood name whose diverse portfolio includes feature films, television series, documentaries and video games for major clients such as ABC, Activision, Electronic Arts, Fox, Fuji, Marvel, Sony, THQ, Universal and Warner Bros. With several globally successful franchises already to his credit ranging [...]

An Audio Journey Through The Signal Path in SONAR X1

Mike Trujillo [Cakewalk] — Thu, 19 Jul 2012 21:39:49 +0000

A question I am often asked is, “Just what exactly is the signal path in SONAR X1?”. You plug in your mic or instrument and the sound flows through your monitors. But what is the journey your audio signal takes in between? Let’s take a trip through the Channel strip and find out! First, there [...]

Back for a limited time: The Softube Mix Bundle (VSTs and ProChannel Modules)

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Thu, 19 Jul 2012 16:26:48 +0000

Back by popular demand: Save 40% off the Softube Mix Bundle This past February, we featured the Softube Mix Bundle at the Cakewalk Store for only $179 (40% off the regular price). Since that time, we have been asked by many users to bring it back. Through a special arrangement with Softube, we are happy [...]

Take a closer look at what’s in SONAR X1 Studio

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Thu, 19 Jul 2012 00:53:41 +0000

With the First-class Upgrade promotion extended through July, it’s a good time to review the amazing value you get with SONAR X1 Studio. Whether you are upgrading or looking for a new digital audio workstation (DAW), SONAR X1 Studio gives you hundreds of dollars in professional grade tools, instruments, and effects that only Cakewalk can [...]

Video: Playing Z3TA+ 2 with the new QuNeo MIDI controller

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Wed, 18 Jul 2012 14:34:16 +0000

Electronic music producer Encanti has a brand new toy. Watch as the Z3TA+ 2 preset designer takes the new QuNeo controller for a spin with Z3TA+ 2. Z3TA+ 2 is currently available as a VST for Windows, and it’s coming soon for Mac, so it can be used in other hosts like Ableton Live as [...]

CakeTV Live – Larger Than Life Drums

Seth Perlstein [Cakewalk] — Fri, 13 Jul 2012 23:02:30 +0000

For your pleasure and edification the latest CakeTV Live webinar is now available for viewing on CakeTV. In this latest installment of CakeTV Live Brandon Ryan and I walk through the process of taking recorded, live drums from sounding, ‘meh’, to ‘larger than life’ using SONAR X1. We explain everything from how to setup and [...]

Get Z3TA+ 2, Rapture, and Stutter Edit for $199.95 – The Electronic Musician’s Dream!

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Fri, 13 Jul 2012 18:29:56 +0000

Watch the promo video to see Z3TA+ 2, Rapture, and Stutter Edit in action. What you hear was made exclusively with these 3 plugins! Cakewalk and iZotope have teamed up to bring you three inspiring tools for electronic music at a price that will make you think you are dreaming! Save over 50% when you [...]

Z3TA+ 2 coming to the Mac this August – Sign up to be notified

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Thu, 12 Jul 2012 21:22:26 +0000

Z3TA+ 2 has been a huge hit with musicians since its release in August 2011 but we still get that one persistent question: When will it be available for Mac? We are happy to announce that day is coming soon. Z3TA+ 2 will be available in VST3 and AU format for Mac OS X 10.6.8 [...]

Get hands on control of SONAR X1′s ACT functionality with the Roland A-300PRO

Mike Trujillo [Cakewalk] — Tue, 03 Jul 2012 14:02:53 +0000

SONAR X1′s Active Controller Technology (ACT) allows for full control over your mix and effects via hardware MIDI controller. Not only can you control mix settings like volume and pan on tracks, ACT lets you control parameters on effect and synth plugins in real time! Coupled with the Roland A-300PRO MIDI Keyboard Controller you can [...]

HOW DOYLE DONEHOO USED SONAR X1 TO CREATE THE MUSIC FOR THE GAME WORLD OF BATTLESHIPS

Jimmy Landry [Cakewalk] — Thu, 28 Jun 2012 20:28:47 +0000

SONAR X1 is the choice for many artists who create music for their own audiences, but it’s also the D.A.W. of choice for many professionals who use it in other capacities. As the Artist Relations Manager for Cakewalk I’ve had the fortunate opportunity to really connect with great artists on many different levels. One of [...]

Windows 8 – A benchmark for music production applications

Noel Borthwick [Cakewalk] — Wed, 27 Jun 2012 13:47:35 +0000

Windows 8 Background There has been a large amount of interest and speculation about Windows 8, Microsoft’s latest OS scheduled for release in late 2012. Windows 8 is one of the most ambitious OS releases from Microsoft since Windows 95, and is the first OS that attempts to unify the desktop and mobile user experience [...]

Michael Hoover named new President of Cakewalk

Andrew Rossa [Cakewalk] — Mon, 25 Jun 2012 21:06:28 +0000

Boston, MA, (June 25, 2012) — Cakewalk, the world’s leading developer of powerful and easy to use products for music creation and recording, today announced the resignation of Greg Hendershott as Chief Executive Officer. Michael Hoover, currently Executive Vice President of Products, has been named President and will assume primary responsibility for all day-to-day Company [...]

And the next Cakewalk promotion (as voted by users) is…

Andrew Rossa [Cakewalk] — Fri, 22 Jun 2012 21:23:02 +0000

Earlier this week, we asked users to help us pick the next Cakewalk promotion from a choice of three of the most popular ones of 2012. We got an overwhelming amount of response from the community and there was heavy interest in bringing back all three promotions. So we decided to go ahead and offer [...]

Parallel Compression in SONAR

Seth Perlstein [Cakewalk] — Fri, 22 Jun 2012 01:32:39 +0000

A common question I get asked when doing J.A.M. Sessions, webinars, and other events, is how to setup parallel compression in SONAR. The next asked question is usually what parallel compression is and why it should be used. Parallel compression is a mixing technique most commonly used on drums where one signal is split into two [...]

How to get great guitar tones with Guitar Rig 4 LE in SONAR X1 Producer

Mike Trujillo [Cakewalk] — Thu, 21 Jun 2012 20:20:08 +0000

As a lifelong guitarist and tone hound, I’ve had the pleasure of recording and playing on some of the world’s most cherished amplifiers. My sonic heaven is a set of glowing tubes spilling into a vintage Marshall 4×12 cabinet and projected out at mind numbing volume. But at 3am when I have an idea that [...]

Converting and Importing Pro Tools SD2 Files from a Mac into SONAR X1

Jimmy Landry [Cakewalk] — Thu, 21 Jun 2012 14:48:19 +0000

With so many different file formats from digital recording over the last 20 years, sometimes one can be left in a tough predicament trying to get things to work properly. I was one of those people just recently, so I want to share my experience hoping that I will save someone an afternoon’s worth of [...]

You choose the next Cakewalk promotion

Marcus Dandurand [Cakewalk] — Wed, 20 Jun 2012 14:45:55 +0000

We want your help in choosing the next Cakewalk promotion. 2012 has been filled with many specials for registered Cakewalk customers. To show our appreciation for your patronage, we want you to decide which special we should bring back for a week. We understand that some customers may have already taken advantage of the specials, [...]

Shawn Clement nominated for “Best Score” at eWorld Music Awards; How He Used SONAR X1

Jimmy Landry [Cakewalk] — Mon, 18 Jun 2012 14:36:28 +0000

Congratulations to Shawn Clement whose score for Quantum Quest: A Cassini Space Odyssey has been nominated for “Best Score” at the 2012 eWorld Music Awards held at Paramount Picture Studios. The score was written and produced in SONAR X1 and then recorded with the San Francisco Philharmonic Orchestra at George Lucas’ legendary Skywalker Ranch. The [...]

Links for 2009-08-19 [Digg]

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 00:00:00 PDT

Cakewalk's Music Creator 5 | Using Technology ...
A while back I blogged about two Windows/PC entry-level DAW applications that promised to be near-equivalent to Apple's GarageBand: now Cakewalk's Music Creator 5....
New Recording Equipment « Mark Murray's Blog
Just ordered this… its by Cakewalk, called Guitar Tracks Pro 4. It comes with a USB interface so you can plug direct in, or run an XLR to 1/4″ and mic your amp. It has modeling for amps, effects and whatever.
Review: 5 USB turntables convert LPs to MP3s - Network World
What can you do when you have favorite old LPs that haven't been converted into digital form? Convert them yourself. Here are 5 USB turntables that can make it easier.
Cakewalk Launches SONAR V-Studio Clinics
So there's never been a better time for free, which is just how much this clinic tour will cost audio engineers interested in learning about Cakewalk's SONAR V-Studio 100, and in some locations SONAR V-Studio 700.