Magix Samplitude Music Studio 15

(Originally written by RajaSan/translated from Audiofanzine FR)
No installation problems either with XP or Vista.

No incompatibility with my Firebox and M-audio USB keyboard.

I spent only 5 minutes with the configuration panel so the overall configuration is quite easy.

The user's manual... I closed it almost as soon as I opened it and looked for answers elsewhere. I was lucky: a friend already used Samplitude (the normal version) and gave me some good tips.

SUITABILITY/PERFORMANCE

The software works fine with my Pentium IV 3,2 GHz (single core). Sometimes I have display troubles and I have to restart the project but it's ok considering the price.

OVERALL OPINION

I'm very satisfied. I don't want a huge software program. With this one, my Firebox, my USB keyboard and a computer (even a small laptop), I have a small and easy mobile studio.

I tried out Music Maker 15 (and other Magix products) which was simpler, but you can't use any effects while recording. I bought Samplitude MS 15 because it allows me to use effects directly during a recording (reverb and more). And once the signal is recorded you can bypass the effect used during recording.

I connected a couple of mics and a guitar into my Firebox and it worked immediately.

Note for dummies, like me:

Before recording set each track you want to record in mono mode so that one track = one sound card input (a stereo track uses two inputs).

Once you recorded the track, you can edit each track after you separate them: right click on them and select object, ungroup objects.

I'm sure I could connect a bass to the 4th input of my sound card without having a single problem, and also use the SPDIF inputs (when I find out what exactly they are for).

I like to use the virtual synths (Vita and Revolta 2), it's fun and the sound is nice. I don't look for freeware synths anymore because these two are good enough for me. I will only keep my freeware VST soundfont player to keep and expand my sound bank (harmonica, accordion, church organ, violin, etc.).

Beatbox 2 seems to be great to edit your own drum kits step by step. The effects provided sound good. The other synths bundled with Samplitude MS15 are not so good and I don't use them.

Don't hesitate it! For the price, avoid Music Maker 15 and buy Samplitude MS15.

(Originally written by jose_good/translated from Audiofanzine FR)

Automatic installation without problems.
The user's manual serves as a good starting point.
But if you are not gifted like me,
you'll have to follow the instructions in the help file.

SUITABILITY/PERFORMANCE

My system: Pentium 4 3GB, Win XP, 2 GB DDR Ram, 700 GB HDD,
M-AUDIO 192 sound card.
Working at 32 bits/48 kHz with 10 ms latency is not a problem but I have only used 8 tracks at the moment.
Very stable up to now.

OVERALL OPINION

I've used it 2 days.
I specially like the fact that
the Midi and FX are integrated into the audio sequencer.
I don't have any cons at the time being.
I tested several audio/midi sequencers like ORION, MAGIX 2005 DE LUX, FL STUDIO XXL, LIVE 4 lite, and I started out with E-JAY 4.
Excellent value for money (client price at MAGIX).
I wouldn't hesitate to buy it again.

(Originally written by Vincent tim/translated from Audiofanzine FR)

Pretty straightforward and clear automatic installation.
The printed user's manual isn't comprehensive, it's more like a quick guide.
It's the same with most softwares, I really miss good and comprehensive printed documentation to read in the evening far away from the working environment.

SUITABILITY/PERFORMANCE

I have an "old" Pentium4 2.5GHz, 1GB Ram running Win XP. It works fine...

OVERALL OPINION

It's sort of an all-in-one solution: audio, internal Midi synths, accompaniment, harmonizer... Compatible with VST and Rewire
You cannot really ask for more for this price.

The auto installs without problems.
the manual is sufficient for First grip
n'tes but if you like me, not very dou,
follow the instructions in the help.

ADQUATION / PERFORMANCE

Config pentium 4 .. XP 3GB DDR 2GB 700GB hard-disk but 80% free
sound card "M-192 AUDIO" that's OK.
I work in 32-bit / 48000Hz without problem, 10ms latency, but I have used so far only 8 tracks.
For now very stable.

NOTICE GLOBAL

I use it for two days.
The particular feature I like the most is to have made
audio squenceur li to the south, and "FX" overall.
The least that's for later I think.
I tried a lot of audio and midi squenceur as (ORION MAGIX 2005 LUX, FL STUDIO XXL LIVE 4 lite and I started with E-JAY 4)
The great rqprix 49 (client MAGIX)
I would do this choice without hsiter.