software

The power and capabilities of this industry standard audio production application are awesome. Its versatility and potential for a multitude of recording and compositional projects is exciting and inspiring. And its notorious reputation for a steep learning curve ..... well earned.

What used to exist in four versions (Logic Audio, Silver, Gold & Platinum in ascending order) has been simplified to two; Logic Pro and Logic Express. And that's the only thing simple about it. I'm not sure of the Pro version (out of my affordability range at the moment), but this package has the feel of being somewhat rushed to market; there are no tutorials to speak of included on any of the five discs in the box, nor will you find any "guided tour" on any of the printed materials. On the documentation disc is a 496-page PDF you can print out, and at the time of this writing, that is the only publication you will find anywhere that specifically covers Logic Express ..... and it is a reference guide. Not exactly accommodating of Apple/Emagic to just toss purchasers of their software into the deep end like this and just let them flounder. On the other hand, releasing it this way may give the more determined of us that much more of a competitive edge .....

Missing guidance aside, I do not regret this purchase. With a little help from the Apple Pro Training title on Logic 6 (available separately), I've managed to figure out enough of the basics to know how to approach projects. It includes three virtual software tools ("analog" synth, sampler, rhythm machine), ten or so effects plug-ins, as many midi and sample editing options as you'll probably need, a scoring module you can actually print out sheet music from, and if you already have another music creation app like Reason or Garageband, you'll be pretty much set up with your own desktop recording studio. The main caveat I must pass along with this package is, you may save money, but you have your work cut out for you. Good luck.