All posts by Mikey Backpack

Arcade – A Loop Synthesizer by Output

Arcade – A Loop Synthesizer by Output Output has established itself as one of the top companies to go to when looking for forward-thinking and high-quality tools for music production. Their array of instruments are as unique as they are beautiful sounding. Most recently they introduced a plugin called Arcade to their lineup which is a loop synthesizer connected to the cloud. What does that mean exactly? It means that the instrument is one part sampler, one part loop library, and one part effects unit that gets updated with new samples every single day. If that doesn’t immediately short-circuit your brain while considering the possibilities then let us dive deeper as we review the plugin below. There’s so much you can do with this plugin that we’ll break it down to the basics and dive into the more advanced features within, you’ll be able to follow along and then test it out for …

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Tuned Bandpass Filters – 12 Free Racks by Sound Author

Tuned Bandpass Filters – 12 Free Racks by Sound Author Tuned Bandpass Filters is a pay-what-you-want set of Ableton Live Racks made by Sound Author. Inside the pack is 12 different EQ-based effect racks each tuned to the 12 notes of the chromatic scale. The rack comes with the 8 macro knobs assigned to 8 harmonic octaves of the root note of the rack, with the effect you can get into some advanced harmonic filtering to get surgical with mixing or do some fine sculpting of a sound. Sound Author stated, “Tuned Bandpass Filters was designed for sound designers who are looking to create harmonic resonances without having to use a vocoder.” Each rack is labeled by the root note which is especially important given that the racks don’t have dry/wet knobs; because of that w recommend throwing the effect on a send bus. Watch this video below to see …

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Creative Extensions – 8 New Devices for Live 10

Creative Extensions – 8 New Devices for Live 10 With the release of Ableton Live 10, we saw the complete integration of Cycling 74’s Max software with the Live DAW. With that change, it was only a matter of time until Ableton would release its very first pack for Live 10 which is exactly what we have to share with you today – Creative Extensions. Creative Extensions was created in partnership with developer Amazing Noises and is a pack of 8 devices (some are completely new, some are updated versions of previous M4L devices) covering an array of options varying between audio effect and instrument. Follow below as we break down the new tools! su_divider top=”no” divider_color=”#d2d2d2″ size=”1″   Melodic Steps – a fast and intuitive MIDI sequencer for shifting, polyrhythmic melodies with an interface designed to encourage experimentation and new discoveries through play. Bass – a monophonic virtual analog synthesizer for …

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RECAP – BEAT LAB & OUTPUT PRESENT: MUMUKSHU

RECAP – BEAT LAB & OUTPUT PRESENT: MUMUKSHU This past weekend we had another awesome workshop, this time we had a software developer and producer, Mumukshu lead us through the features of Output’s newest plugin – Arcade. Arcade is a loop based synthesizer that is connected to the cloud so it has an ever-expanding library of sound categories you can choose from. Mumukshu gave us an awesome rundown of the plugin and its core features. Output is currently offering a 100 trial period which is insanely cool, what other plugin company do you know lets you try out a plugin like a mattress? After the trial period, Arcade is available for a monthly subscription of $10 and you can cancel anytime without losing access to your prior work. That’s right. Any session you’ve made with Arcade will still work even if your subscription is canceled. What are you waiting for? …

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That Guitar – FREE LoFi Hip-Hop Style Guitar Sample Pack

That Guitar – FREE LoFi Hip-Hop Style Guitar Sample Pack Electronic music producer Arrogant Beggar and Reddit user ThatguyTarlung recently dropped a post on reddit offering his fellow music makers a wonderful gift – a free sample pack featuring guitar samples designed for use in Lo-Fi Hip-Hop. Anyone familiar with the multiple Youtube channels dedicated to sleepy laid-back beats will recognize “That guitar”. Arrogant Beggar’s original post is copied below, Unless you have been living under a rock or have been avoiding Lo-Fi Hip-Hop radio stations like the plague (I wouldn’t blame you), you have probably heard “That guitar”. Jazzy electric chords that sound like they have been recorded via Polaroid pictures. Here’s my take on it. Featuring my very own “SILO” (Strat in look only) recorded in my bedroom through a knock-off USB interface. Processed by the finest fake-analog gear my money can by (so… mostly free stuff). Originally intended …

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How Side Gigs Can Work for Artists

How Side Gigs Can Work for Artists Being an artist is often stereotyped as a struggle between earning a living and staying true to your dreams. It’s easy to become discouraged and find yourself on paths that diverge from your artistry. However, side gigs can offer a perfect balance between profit and artistry. Working from Home Home can be a sanctuary from the outside world. For an artist, it can be the ideal environment to spark creativity and imagination, plus it can boost productivity. Of course, home can also be full of distractions, whether that’s interruptions or television. Given that, it’s a good idea to set up a home office. Choose a location away from noisy areas and distractions that has enough space for a desk and equipment like a printer and computer. Depending on your particular focus, you will also need a dedicated table. Be sure to minimize clutter …

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