Published 15/9/09
Update to Windows DAW
Cakewalk have announced the v8.5 update of their flagship Sonar software. For those not already in the know, Sonar is a comprehensive, Windows‑only DAW that comes bundled with a collection of effects and instruments designed to aid the user from initial composition through to mastering. The update includes several tweaks and bug fixes, such as improved VST compatibility and engine optimisations, but the real fun comes in the form of some sharp‑looking new processors and arrangement tools.
The most powerful feature of the upgraded Sonar appears to be the Matrix view, a new work environment described as “simple and flexible, cell‑based, non‑linear audio and MIDI arranging with live‑triggering capability.” Translating the official explanation, the Matrix looks to be similar to Ableton Live’s Session view, where loops, sequenced parts and instruments are laid out in a simplified grid for triggering on the fly. The prospect of being able to use Sonar for live performance could be quite exciting for long‑time users and new converts alike, especially now that the application supports the popular REX loop file-format.
Sonar’s step sequencer has also been updated and now boasts a step-record function, allowing users to record beats in real time by using sample pads on the left of the user interface. Several settings that were previously global in the step sequencer are now editable on a per‑sample basis, including swing, timing and flam control.
Plug‑in fans will not be disappointed by version 8.5, as it includes two new processors, the PX64 Percussion Strip (see the Sonar workshop elsewhere in this issue) and the VX64 Vocal Strip. Both are channel strips providing equaliser, compressor, expander and delay modules. The PX64 also has a transient shaper, while a de‑esser and stereo doubler complete the VX64. Other Sonar enhancements include an arpeggiator in each track and a new ‘media browser’, as well as refinements to the AudioSnap time‑shift processor. Sonar’s Session Drummer has also been updated with extra samples and sequences.
Sonar v8.5 is Windows 7 and 64‑bit ready, and should be available very soon.
Edirol UK +44 (0) 870 350 1515
www.edirol.co.uk
www.cakewalk.com
The most powerful feature of the upgraded Sonar appears to be the Matrix view, a new work environment described as “simple and flexible, cell‑based, non‑linear audio and MIDI arranging with live‑triggering capability.” Translating the official explanation, the Matrix looks to be similar to Ableton Live’s Session view, where loops, sequenced parts and instruments are laid out in a simplified grid for triggering on the fly. The prospect of being able to use Sonar for live performance could be quite exciting for long‑time users and new converts alike, especially now that the application supports the popular REX loop file-format.
Sonar’s step sequencer has also been updated and now boasts a step-record function, allowing users to record beats in real time by using sample pads on the left of the user interface. Several settings that were previously global in the step sequencer are now editable on a per‑sample basis, including swing, timing and flam control.
Plug‑in fans will not be disappointed by version 8.5, as it includes two new processors, the PX64 Percussion Strip (see the Sonar workshop elsewhere in this issue) and the VX64 Vocal Strip. Both are channel strips providing equaliser, compressor, expander and delay modules. The PX64 also has a transient shaper, while a de‑esser and stereo doubler complete the VX64. Other Sonar enhancements include an arpeggiator in each track and a new ‘media browser’, as well as refinements to the AudioSnap time‑shift processor. Sonar’s Session Drummer has also been updated with extra samples and sequences.
Sonar v8.5 is Windows 7 and 64‑bit ready, and should be available very soon.
Edirol UK +44 (0) 870 350 1515
www.edirol.co.uk
www.cakewalk.com
