Here you will find home recording news, tips and articles as well as reviews of new recording gear and software. Revolution Audio Canada exists to spark the home studio uprising by any means possible!
Acorn Instruments is a new line for us. They make super affordable, bare-bones USB MIDI keyboard controllers for home studios.
Available in 3 sizes, they have a great synth-style action, a handful of essential controls, and come bundled with Presonus Studio One Artist! Find out more
Masterkey features
• 25/49/61 note, velocity sensitive, synth-style keyboard • Pitch bend and modulation wheels (assignable) • 1 assignable fader • 4 assignable knobs for real time control • 3-character red LED segment display • 1 sustain foot switch input jack, type-sensing (foot switch not included) • Quick-toggle between real-time functions Octave, Transpose, Program Change and MIDI Channel • Advanced MIDI functions • USB class-compliant. No driver needed • Includes Presonus Studio One™ Artist
IK Multimedia iRig MIDI
iRig MIDI is an ultra-compact standard Core MIDI interface for iOS that
connects any MIDI compatible device to the iPhone®, iPod touch® and
iPad®.
iRig MIDI is the only compact iOS MIDI interface sporting 3 MIDI ports:
IN/OUT/THRU. These connect to any standard MIDI jacks using the included
2 x 1.6m/5.2’ cables. iRig MIDI also has 2 LEDs for displaying the MIDI
activity on the IN and OUT ports.
iRig MIDI also exclusively provides a micro USB port – with included
cable – that connects to any standard USB power supply source so that
the iOS device can stay fully powered during long sessions.
Standard Core MIDI interface connects any MIDI hardware device
to Core MIDI-compatible apps like SampleTank FREE and GarageBand
Directly connect MIDI keyboards, synthesizers, drum machines,
drum pads, pedal boards and more using the included 2 x 5.2’ (1.6 m)
MIDI 5-pin DIN cables
3 MIDI ports: IN/OUT/THRU
2 LEDs for MIDI IN/OUT activity display
Micro USB port can charge the iOS device while in use
Free apps included*: SampleTank FREE the powerful sample-based sound module app and iRig MIDI Recorder FREE
Novation Nocturn Intelligent Plug-in Controller
Novation’s most affordable hardware controller to date, Nocturn is an
intelligent plug-in controller that promises to unleash the full
potential of all your favourite instruments and effects. Featuring the
latest Automap software, exclusive to Novation controllers, Nocturn
provides automatic, instant and intelligent control of all automatable
plug-ins within every major sequencer, including Pro Tools.
Nocturn features eight touch-sensitive rotary encoders, each equipped
with a bright eleven-LED ring (ideal for laptop DJ’ing in a dark club
environment). These are accompanied by eight user-assignable illuminated
buttons and a smooth, professional 45mm cross-fader. The finishing
touch is Novation’s unique ‘speed dial’; a touch-sensitive rotary
encoder that instantly takes control of whatever your mouse is focused
on!
Exclusive Automap Universal technology Novation’s instant and intelligent control technology leaves you free to focus on what matters most - your music.
Heads-up transparent control GUI Automap provides a
transparent control map across your computer screen, so you can see at a
glance how every parameter is assigned.
Novation’s unique ‘Speed Dial’ An instant access
touch-sensitive control for composers and performers alike, allowing you
to take control of whatever your mouse is focused on!
Touch-sensitive controls Nocturn also features eight
touch-sensitive rotary encoders with bright, eleven-LED rings. Simply
touch an encoder to assign to any parameter.
The Lap-top DJ solution Alongside the brightly lit
encoders, Nocturn also features illuminated buttons and a smooth,
professional 45mm cross-fader, making it ideal for laptop DJ’ing in a
dark club environment.
Instant ‘learn’ function Simply click on the software parameter and touch a Nocturn control to assign it. Now you can re-assign every control in seconds.
IK Multimedia iRig MIDI
iRig MIDI is an ultra-compact standard Core MIDI interface for iOS that
connects any MIDI compatible device to the iPhone®, iPod touch® and
iPad®.
iRig MIDI connects MIDI keyboards, drum machines, drum pads, pedal
boards and more to an iOS device to control not only the included
SampleTank FREE but also a world of MIDI-compatible apps such as
GarageBand®. You can also use iOS apps to control external MIDI
equipment such as sound modules, DAWs or lighting systems right from the
mobile device.
Find out more: IK Multimedia iRig MIDI $79
Features
Standard Core MIDI interface connects any MIDI hardware device
to Core MIDI-compatible apps like SampleTank FREE and GarageBand
Directly connect MIDI keyboards, synthesizers, drum machines,
drum pads, pedal boards and more using the included 2 x 5.2’ (1.6 m)
MIDI 5-pin DIN cables
3 MIDI ports: IN/OUT/THRU
2 LEDs for MIDI IN/OUT activity display
Micro USB port can charge the iOS device while in use
Free apps included*: SampleTank FREE the powerful sample-based sound module app and iRig MIDI Recorder FREE
In the latest XLN Audio newsletter, a new freebie was announced for Addictive Drums users
"To celebrate the great success of the INDIE ADpak and the INDIE Rock MIDI Pak we are giving away an extra Bass Drum we recorded at the same time as the INDIE ADpak.
This is a Ludwig Vistalite (Blue) 22 X 16" and it's recorded
exactly as the ICE Custom Shop Bass Drum in the INDIE Kit. This
Vistalite bass drum is slightly shorter and deeper in character than the
ICE Custom Shop and it's actually the most used bass drum in this
studio.
When we tried out drums in the studio for the INDIE ADpak we fell in
love with the ICE Custom Shop kit but we were stunned by how great this
Vistalite bass drum sounded so we just had to include it in the
recording. It's rich, fat and punchy and right now ladies and gentlemen
it's for FREE!"
Cakewalk UM-1G MIDI Interface
The UM-1G is a compact, cable-style 1-In/1-Out USB MIDI Interface. With
features like intuitive connector cable labels, a MIDI indicator LED,
and a MIDI Check Switch, the UM-1G has been designed to provide the
easiest connection of MIDI devices to your computer.
Find out more: UM-1G MIDI Interface
Top Features
1-In/1-Out MIDI port (male), with LED indicators for MIDI I/O signal monitoring
MIDI Check switch for quick troubleshooting of MIDI connections
MIDI cables are engraved with "Connect to MIDI In" and "Connect to MIDI Out" labels for no confusion when connecting devices
Perfect for hobbyists who want to connect a MIDI keyboard to a computer, or musicians who need MIDI connectivity to control or record music with a computer
Ideal for small studios or academic settings where only one MIDI device will be connected in close proximity to the computer
In live performance settings, use the UM-1G to control a synth, drum machine, MIDI light set-up
Novation Impulse 25 Impulse is a range of professional USB/MIDI controllers. They each have a
precision keyboard and a full control surface powered by a brand new
version of Novation's Automap control software - Automap 4 (which makes
getting hands-on with your DAW/plug-ins fast and simple). Impulse also
has 8 back-lit drum pads which can warp arpeggios, roll beats and launch
clips in Ableton live.
Read all the details | Novation Impulse 25 professional USB keyboard controller
TOP FEATURES
Precision semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch
Professional control surface gives you full control of your DAW including mixer, transport and plug-in instruments and effects
Novation’s Automap control software makes it fast and simple to assign knobs, faders and buttons to your music software
Back-lit drum pads allow you to warp arpeggios and improvise with rhythm patterns – they also launch clips in Ableton
Large LCD screen displays control information
Hardware design is tough and rugged
Comes with Ableton Live Lite, Novation’s Bass Station synth and a Loopmasters sample pack
USB powered, with expression and sustain pedal inputs as well as MIDI in and out ports for connecting external MIDI instruments
Introducing Automap v4.1
Automap 4.1 is here, bringing the brand new, full-featured version of
Novation’s music software control application to all Novation
controllers, including the flagship SL MkII. Automap
is free software that comes with all Novation controllers. It gives you
instant access to your DAW and plug-ins so you can get hands-on control
of your music software. It features a software edit page that
graphically shows what software parameter is assigned to which knob,
fader or button on the hardware. Automap 4 also has a re-designed GUI
and now features a notification system that pops up in the corner of
your monitor to tell you what you are controlling when you move a knob,
slider or button.
Automap 4 was launched with the Novation's new
Impulse controller keyboard range in Summer 2011. The v4.1 update
enables Novation’s top of the range SL MkII controllers to work with
Automap 4 for instant assignment and convenient control. Other Novation
controllers and keyboards are now also compatible with Automap 4,
including: Nocturn, Launchpad, UltraNova, ReMOTE SL, Nocturn Keyboard
and the SL Compact.
Automap is the original music software
control technology. It was launched in 2006 and has evolved over the
years with significant workflow improvements. It is simple to set up and
start using right away, and gives you unparalleled control over your
DAW’s mixer, effects and virtual instruments. It will be available for free download by the beginning of November 2011.
M-Audio Keystation Mini 32
The M-Audio® Keystation Mini 32 is the ideal choice for players on the go. Designed by the company that pioneered mobile music production, this ultra-portable keyboard delivers unmatched playability in its class. Simply plug it into your computer or iPad* and perform two-hand parts with 32 great-feeling, low-profile mini-keys. Customize the keyboard sensitivity to your playing style with highly musical velocity curves—including one specifically for drum programming. Control your performance with four assignable controls, including a rotary knob. And easily play and write music using the included software. With USB bus power and plug-and-play** functionality, Keystation Mini 32 is the easy way to create and perform on the go.
Find out more | Keystation Mini 32
Top Features
32 low-profile, velocity-sensitive mini-keys > great feel in an ultra-portable design
4 assignable controls—three buttons and a knob > real-time control of your DAW and virtual instruments
Selectable velocity curves including one for drum programming > customize the keyboard to your playing style
Robust, high-quality build > withstands frequent, mobile use
USB bus-powered and class compliant > easy plug-and-play operation with your computer or iPad*
Novation Launchpad USB MIDI Controller for Ableton Live with Backlit 64-button Grid, 8 Scene-launching Buttons, Bi-directional Ableton Live Communication, and Ableton Live 8 Launchpad Edition Software - Mac/PC
Made for Ableton Live Triggering Mayhem!
The Novation Launchpad is made for Ableton Live — but it's ready to change any MIDI-triggering world! This controller puts 72 trigger buttons under your reign, making it an amazing companion to Live's Session View. The Launchpad's buttons are even backlit, so you always know which clips are playing, loaded, or record enabled. You've also got dedicated buttons for launching scenes. If you don't use Live, go ahead and use Launchpad to map map out the controls however you want — it includes Novation's renowned AutoMap software. Feeling wild? Use up to six Novation Launchpads at once!
See all the details for Novation Launchpad
Novation Launchpad 72-button USB MIDI Controller at a Glance:
The perfect partner to Ableton Live's Session View
Use up to six Launchpads together for 432 buttons
Works for more than just triggering — use buttons for unique level control
New to Live? Use the included Ableton Live 8 Launchpad Edition software
Novation Nocturn 49
Nocturn Keyboard is an intelligent plug-in/sequencer controller. It has a high quality 'Fatar' keyboard, with 8 drum pads and a total of 33 assignable controls, which allow you to get hands-on control of your plug-in instruments, effects and sequencer.
Most keyboard controllers have two big problems: The idea of being able to control software parameters with knobs and buttons sounds great. However, the hassle of assigning them, and remembering what they are assigned to becomes so tedious that you always end up turning back to your mouse.
Nocturn Keyboard's Automap control software solves both these problems. To assign controllers, simply click on the parameter, touch a knob or button, and it is assigned! It also enables you to keep track of what is assigned to what - instead of using a small monochrome LCD screen, Nocturn Keyboard displays control information where you really need it: on your computer monitor. The Automap software graphically displays Nocturn’s control surface. The controllers themselves also tell you what is going on: LED rings around the 8 encoders show their current settings, and LED’s behind the buttons tell you if they are on or off. Find out more about the Nocturn 49
TOP FEATURES
High quality professional keyboard
• Velocity-sensitive, keyboard from Fatar, with assignable after-touch. The Nocturn Keyboard feels like playing an instrument rather than a computer peripheral.
Illuminated controls provide instant visual feedback
• Brightly lit 11 segment LED rings around the eight smooth encoders, and backlit buttons throughout provide instant visual feedback for every physical control.
Touch-sensitive encoders
• All 8 oversized encoders are touch sensitive, bringing up mapping information and allowing you to ‘touch’ in automation data on DAW’s with a ‘touch’ mode.
Automap control Software
• Allows you to instantly 'learn' controllers to plug-ins. The GUI graphically displays Nocturn Keyboard's control surface on your computer monitor, enabling you to see exactly what is assigned to what, without using a tiny LCD screen.
8 Velocity-sensitive drumpads
• Nocturn Keyboard features 8 'softfeel' velocity sensitive drum pads. These can do more than just trigger notes and sketch drum patterns, all can be assigned to control software parameters.
Total of 33 MIDI assignable controls
• 8 trigger pads, 8 dials, 14 buttons, modulation wheel. Sustain and expression pedal control can also be added.
Speed Dial
• The 9th encoder is a unique 'Speed Dial' which allows you to instantly change the value of any parameter the cursor is pointing at, with no assignment needed whatsoever.
USB Powered
• Nocturn Keyboard is powered by USB saving valuable plug sockets. It can also be powered down without being unplugged, preserving battery power in laptops.
Alesis DM10 Studio 2011 Electronic Drumkit
The DM10 Studio Kit is professional, six-piece electronic drum set with natural-feeling RealHead drum pads, low-noise DMPad Cymbals, the groundbreaking DM10 drum module, and a compact, flexible StageRack. Read more about the DM10 Studio 2011
NEW FOR 2011 – STAGERACK
The StageRack is the backbone of the DM10 Studio Kit. With its rugged four-post design and industry standard 1 1/2" tubing, the StageRack provides supreme stability under the most serious drumming duress. The StageRack's clamps, mounts, and integrated boom cymbal arms are all fully adjustable with plenty of flexibility to securely fasten your drums, cymbals, and module exactly where you want. You won't need tools to make most adjustments so you can spend less time setting up and more time rocking out. Large enough to easily accommodate additional drums and cymbals – even acoustic drum, cymbal, and percussion instruments – the StageRack still takes up only a fraction of the space of an acoustic kit.
The DM10 Studio Kit gives you more – more drums, more cymbals, more sounds, more flexibility, and more value – to power your creativity.
TOP FEATURES
DM10 high-definition drum module with 12 trigger inputs and mixer
Load custom third-party sound sets or control computer software, all via USB
RealHead 10" snare and four 8" toms: dual-zone drum pads with real mylar heads
by Jason Johnston
Many of us couldn't fit a drum kit into our home studios, much less what the sound would do for any relationships in the house. Good news: MIDI Drum beats and sounds have come a long way. You can now produce realistic drum beats at home, with a little knowledge and select equipment, and even keep your marriage.
(For a quick tutorial on how to play drum beats in through a MIDI keyboard, see our video tutorial at the bottom of this article.)
Top Ten Tips for Programming Killer MIDI Drum Beats
1. Never Quantize 100% unless it is dance or electronic music. Every recording application has an option for the strength of the of the quantize. In Cubase it is called "iterative strength." In Pro Tools it is called "Strength." Often you'll find a randomize feature. Play with the settings, quantize and undo until you get the feel.
2. After recording your beat, move your snare slightly forward or backward without a snap to grid. It's amazing what a slight adjustment of the snare can create. You can apply the same principal to other parts. Real drummers make mistakes even, and your MIDI drummer can too.
3. Real Cymbals never sound the same twice. Change the velocity for each one.
4. The pedal hi-hat is all that should be left of the hi-hats during a solo. It's impossible to do a tom roll and an open hi-hat hit at the same time.
5. In general, think about what is realistic for a human drummer. Even if your listeners are not drummers themselves, if they have listened to a lot of music they will probably sense when a beat is physically impossible for someone with only two hands and two feet.
6. Does a drummer do the exact same roll every 8 bars? Should your MIDI drummer? No. You can copy out the same 8 bars initially and then go in and make slight adjustments to drums being played, velocity or the number of hits. Often "less is more" when it comes to rolls and MIDI drums. Too much could be a dead give-away and make them question whether you really did have Neil Peart in your studio.
7. Can't keep up while playing the parts in real time? As long as everything is still MIDI, set your project tempo much lower than the target speed and do your recording. Then do a little edit/quantizing clean up and put the tempo faster again. You'll sound like a pro. If you can't slow down the project you're working in, record the drums in a separate session and then export the MIDI for importing into the original session.
8. Add a kick drum when you hit some of your crash cymbals. It's a typical thing to do for a drummer, it adds more punch and it might help hide the fact that it's not a real cymbal being playing.
9. Invest in a good quality, multi-sample drum sample library. We love Native Instrument's Battery 3 software drum sampler around the studio and use it all the time. The new Strike! for Pro Tools is amazing too and comes with 20 GB of samples. They help make the drums sound realistic by adding multiple samples, layer upon layer, for each drum part. For instance, the studio snares layer various samples that are triggered depending on the velocity of the note. You can hear the snap of the snare happen as the strength increases. Your original source sound will make a big difference to the realism and how long it takes you to mix in the end.
10. Load an MP3 or WAV file of your favourite music into your recording application and play along. You can experiment with different beats or mimic the beat on the song. You can always listen back and cut out the parts you want later. It might be good just for inspiration or to build up a MIDI drum library of basic beats you can use later.
Hope these tips help you make more realistic MIDI Drum beats. The best part is you don't even need a van to do it.
Click below for our Basic Keyboard MIDI Drumming Tutorial
Automap
is free software that comes with all Novation controllers. It gives you
instant access to your DAW and plug-ins so you can get hands-on control
of your music software. It features a software edit page that
graphically shows what software parameter is assigned to which knob,
fader or button on the hardware. Automap 4 also has a re-designed GUI
and now features a notification system that pops up in the corner of
your monitor to tell you what you are controlling when you move a knob,
slider or button. 
