Newbie, HELP ( MIDI SETUP) Options

[abstractenigma]

I'm new to he site and an absolute beginner to the world of computer music. I play some instruments and I want to experiment with the power of computers. I recently purchased an Alesis sr 16 and I am struggling with how to set it up with my MAC. Can anyone point me in the right direction or walk me through it. I have read the manual but it's not exactly for a person who has no idea what they are talking about half the time. Thanks a lot .

[deaconblue]

abstractenigma,

you'll need some type of midi interface to connect the drum machine to the Mac. There are plenty of options, both via PCI card and simple USB->MIDI interfaces. The M-Audio USB interfaces are good, but are not the only ones out there.

A good overview of basic recording, setting up a studio, MIDI, mic'ing, etc. can be found in Home Recording For Dummies For Musicians. I have used this as a quick reference guide and have recommended it to friends new to DAW recording. It has a lot of good tips. I just hate the name.

Also, check the Articles links for a lot more information to help you along. The Advice for Beginners article is great. Also, the World of MIDI articles may have enough info to get you started.

best of luck. Keep reading the forums. There are a lot of smart people on here ready to help out.

peace,
deacon

[S.F.Selecta]

Also a book to pick up is the dance musicians handbook by rick snowman. It looked like it would be corny then i picked it up and its a great guide for quick answers and tips.

[S.F.Selecta]

sorry i got that totally wrong. it called the Dance Music Manual Tools, Toys, and Techniques and its by Rick Snoman.