Music Packages for computers

[R J L]

Can someone please tell me what is the best music package (or easiest to use) for the PC? So I can make house music? Much appreciated!

[jenky]

This is such a matter of personal choice, but if you want to start from scratch, and are not going to be relying on loads of external samples, and if you have the RAM to run it, then Reason II is hard to beat.
It has a sequencing window where you can order your beats/loops etc, and above is a virtual rack of synths and modules that you 'wire up' as you want and play using a midi keyboard (you will need one of these for nearly any set up you choose). The built in instrument samples cover pretty much anything you would ever need.
You can get a far more complicated set up but this a good self-contained way to start.

[R J L]

Thank you. How much is it, and also - how much is a Midi keyboard would you say? I have a laptop, will that be sufficient? Again, thanks very much!

[jenky]

prices vary for it wildly - just look/ask etc.;-)
As far as midi keyboards go, it will cost about �100 for something that covers all your needs and shouldn't need upgrading straight away.
Looking at Propellerheads website, Reason 3 is out now and isn't cheap! It's 450euros online, but you should find version 2 much cheaper now.
I know it's expensive but check the trailer for Reason 3 here and you get an idea of what software bundles can do.
Only other thing to mention is a possible upgrade of your pc sound card might be needed. Again these vary so much, you should hunt around for what suits your needs.

[jenky]

http://www.propellerheads.se/

try that link again!

[OBonio]

If it's for a hobby, I can recommend FruityLoops.

http://www.flstudio.com/English/frames.html