Hey, Assemblers. Music is such a big part of video games, and I want to learn more. I've been trying to look into music composition software, but, my goodness, it's a maze to navigate. I've been reading up on the juggernauts, Makemusic Finale and Sibelius, and I've even seen some free software people swear by, like Lilypond. The fact is that I'm new to researching the software as well as music theory/composition, and I could use help navigating through all the information. The features I hope to get in a single package: 1) Virtual Sheet Music writing ('Gotta have that authentic [digital] experience.) 2) VST Support ('Gotta make them chiptune sounds.) 3) Some virtual instruments ('Gotta have that orchestra-in-a-box.) 4) Little or no DRM ('Gotta avoid those "Limited Activation's.") 5) Not the Academic/Educational version. ('Gotta have commercial privileges.) I'm sure that, if I don't pay big for the software, I'll pay for it in virtual instruments. I'm willing to put in the money, but I want an end result that won't break the bank for an entry-level user. Any info would make my life a lot easier. Thank you in advance. EDIT: Added the Sheet Music info to my wishlist.
You would probably want Ableton live or Protools if you want to use a lot of VSTs. Finale and Sibelius are pretty much just music notation software unless that's your thing and want the music to be actually preformed by live musicians. They are all pretty expensive unless you are in a music composition class or a music production class.
I really appreciate the quick reply! I forget to mention that I want the note-by-note sheet music writing experience. (In digital form.) I've seen people do some amazing work with tools like FL Studio, though.
If you're after a DAW, I recommend Reaper. Fairly cheap (or free if you want), good licensing model, good devs. Works great, too.
Pro Tools doesn't support VST natively, but there are plugins that convert VST-RTAS.. Honestly, if you're primarily looking for "in-the-box" composing you can't really beat Logic Pro X or Ableton Live. Pro Tools is not the preferred choice for in the box composing, but you CAN do it. Pro tools is more for tracking in a studio environment with outboard gear and for mixing with high end plug-ins and outboard gear. I have a hard time recommending AVID (formerly Digidesign) these days because of their Nazi-esque business practices. I've invested 10s of thousands in their equipment and software and they have no loyalty to their customers.. end of rant Anyway, like I said, Logic Pro X if you're on MAC, or Ableton live if you're on PC. They both comes with loads of software instruments and effects that are actually decent, too. And don't forget a good audio interface if you're planning on doing anything other than a USB keyboard. MICs, Guitars, Vocals, etc.
Thanks for the replies, everyone. In my travels, I discovered MuseScore, which is a pretty good freeware place to start. While it doesn't have VST support, certain types of instrument samples can be loaded. For free, I'll take 4 out of 5 requirements. If anything, I need some good books on Music Theory/Composition.
