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I envision my little corner of the Web as being a place to find a wide variety of information. Think of this section of Graphics Unleashed as a resource. In order to do that, I try to respond to requests, and be aware of the developments in the field. With such a wide spectrum of software and hardware available, it can be overwhelming. However, I do try to offer a broad view of the options in computing. So I went out to locate software as a result of a request. Several hours and many Web sites later, I came up with some interesting software and information.
While I am not an expert on sound editing, although some parts I know better than others, I was asked to locate a program called "Fruity Loops." What I learned was that Fruity Loops does not exist. But do not despair, it has been replaced by an incredible program.
OK, let me step back to Fruity Loops. Fruity Loops, and programs like it, such as FL Studio, are music programs that allow you to create music loops. These applications ship with a set of sound effects, piano rolls and a slew of other functions. In short, you can become the master of your own at home music studio to create highly customized song loops. By using tracks that repeat themselves, you can add track after track to create your own unique sound. The actual range of the sounds you can obtain are limited only by your imagination.
For a technical definition, or more detailed explanation, FL and Fruity Loops are full featured sequencers that permit the user to create complex songs using drum loops, samples etc. The finished product can then be saved as WAV files, MP3 files and MIDI files. The possibilities are indeed wide.
While I am not an expert on the subject of loop music creation, I can see where an application like this can have some practical creative uses for non experts. Certainly computers and the Web are highly visual places. That is a given. What is not so readily explored is the fact that sound can heighten the impact of a visual presentation. Rather that depending on the sounds that one usually records on a home video production, with an application like FL Studio you can create a customized personal sound unique to the subject you are taping. Even for those strictly involved with visual media, there are many instances where customized sounds can be a real asset. Naturally for musicians and DJ's the uses are obvious.
With a slew of applications like this on the market, the one name that came up over and over again was Fruity Loops. According to one professional DJ I spoke with, Fruity Loops was the last word on loop sound creation. After reading and learning, I discovered that the rather unusually named Fruity Loops was no more. This respected application was replaced by FL Studio. Adding a slew of new powers over the older version while replacing other programs, FL Studio is from the start an impressive looking program.
Of all of the applications I have ever seen, FL is actually one of the most aesthetically pleasing I have seen in a long time. Interesting, rich and full of power, the interface is about as exciting as an interface can be. Plus, it invites you to explore. The thing is, if you are new to loop creation, the options are indeed wide.
I do see FL Studio as being a tool for those in the know on sound creation. Even though this can be an intimidating application for newbies, since it follows a look unlike most applications, it is worth the time getting to know. While playing with the program, I discovered that sound mixing is as much fun as photo manipulation. Once you get past the fear and spend time with the application, there is a plethora of options and incredible power here.
For pros in the business, this is really a program designed for the sound professional who knows his or her way around a studio, albeit a PC based one.
Below is a run down of the main features of FL studio:
Coming in three flavors, Producer Edition, FruityLoops Edition and Express the newly renamed FL Studio has versions in several price points. If high end sound creation and loop creation are areas you wish to explore, FL Studio has it all in a visually engaging package that will have you sitting in profound attention when you view the options and choices. While this software comes in several versions, this is a very detailed clearly demanding application. So don't expect to get up to speed after installation in a few seconds.
While it installed without a hitch on my PC, this is one program that will take time to master, if not control. If you can get into the very exciting interface, and put in the time, this is one very potent application. I do see how pros could love this application. For computer newbies, you may want to give it a test spin just to see if it is something that you can handle. If nothing else, do check it out for the sake of the attractive interface. That alone is worth the price of admission. For the pros, this is one program to run out and install.
Talk to Kurt in Graphics Unleashed Forums
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