Jake Weston

The authors of this article have compiled a comprehensive list of piano keyboards compared across a variety of criteria. The focus of the list is based on the piano sounds of the keyboards, although each one has other options and features as well. The other features are not ranked as the criteria rated only applies to the piano sounds. Every keyboard was evaluated under identical listening conditions. The authors mention how expensive and heavy the keyboards are but also state the positive aspects outweigh the negatives. This is a great resource for anyone considering a piano keyboard purchase.

Key Takeaways:

• This piano shootout brings all keyboards into a comparison under uniform listening conditions of the exact same performance
• Volume was matched but frequency balance is impossible to make uniform, so differences reflect the variations of each keyboard
• Know that these keyboards are expensive; this entire collection tested is worth almost $17,000

“I don’t think anyone has ever conducted a comprehensive listening comparison for digital keyboards like this, and after finishing this exercise, I think I know why.”

Read more: https://www.sweetwater.com/insync/7-best-digital-pianos-shootout/

If you want to produce music for TV, films, or games, there is a lot you need to know to get up to speed, including how to design your own tracks using the latest software technology from companies like Zero-G, Spitfire, and iZotope. Be sure to have a comprehensive arsenal in your studio of all of the hardware and software you need to turn your audio vision into a reality in the moment. Develop a thick skin. Realize that when you are making music for someone else, they will criticize it and even reject it often.

Key Takeaways:

• Firstly you need to give yourself deadlines and stick to them, it may just motivate you to work harder
• Attempt to explore sound design and create your own samples using tools like Spitfire, Zero-G, and more
• Know that making music for others won’t always be fun but don't forget to try and innovate to get noticed

“If you’re making music for other people, it won’t always be fun (though it will be sometimes, we promise).”

Read more: http://www.musictech.net/2018/01/10-tips-to-make-music-for-other-people/

The author has created a list of software and described the strengths of each. Impact Designer is good for creating trailers with dramatic effects. Dronar contains a multitude of options for cinematic scoring. Albion is good for subtle music in the wind and bass category. Output Sounds is good for effects and texture as opposed to music. Every software included on the list contains a detailed description of the strong points of each program. It is very helpful for assisting the buyer in choosing the correct software for a specific need.

Key Takeaways:

• Impact Designer is great for creating custom cinematic effects and allows creation in three stages
• Under best subtlety falls Spitfire’s Albion V Tundra, which has sweeping subtle landscapes perfect for dramas
• The best Hans Zimmer category goes to HZ2 & HZ3, with a beautifully recorded percussion library

“Give me a massive collection of alien synths or an Eduardo Tarilonte vocal collection over an emulation of an electric guitar or a real orchestra any day.”

Read more: http://www.musictech.net/2017/12/6-best-scoring-software/

Reverb is a great tool for adding that extra wholeness to a track that you have mixed yourself. It is a simple technology that can complete a track and make sure that your sound has a depth to it that is great to listen to. In using Reverb it is important to create depth and a sort of three dimensional feel in your music, as well as a cohesion of notes in your sound. This will produce an interest in Reverb and your music as a whole.

Key Takeaways:

• If you apply reverberation on some instruments more than others, you will create more depth to your mix.
• Stick to one reverb buss to make it sound like all your instruments are in the same room.
• To add interest to your track, use reverb creatively, in different spots within the track.

“In this ultimate guide, you’re going to learn how to use reverb like a pro by applying 3 simple techniques”

Read more: https://www.musicianonamission.com/how-to-use-reverb/