digital domain

Online instrumentation

11:00 pm Sep 30 - by Tim Anderson – buzz Writer

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    Applications on the internet draw from a deep pool of innovations that would otherwise be unattainable for most. For instance, there are many music-making websites which allow you to create songs and sounds that people would be unable to recreate without a drum set, synthesizer or other forms of expensive equipment.

    The indulge music creation application allows a user to create a short, repeating electronic track visually by layering eight different melodies atop one another. Each sound is assigned to a tab on the left of the application, and by selecting one, the application displays an empty grid.

    Clicking boxes on the grid enables a sound; the pitch is determined by how high or low the box you mark is on the grid. Overall volume as well as individual track volume can be manipulated by sliding a small stylus. Finally, the speed of the track can be changed: the default is 120 beats per minute, but it can go as low as 60 and as high as 180.

    Songs can then be embedded in a website or blog, e-mailed to yourself or a friend, or linked for sharing over social networks such as facebook and twitter.

    Developer Smule has recognized the attraction of inexpensive innovation, and has developed many unusual applications for the iPhone and iPod touch, such as the Ocarina, which allows users to blow into the microphone of their device and manipulate virtual controls on the touch screen to create melodic flute music.

    Their most recent application is "I Am T-Pain", which capitalizes on the auto-tune phenomenon reinvented by artist, T-Pain. The application changes the pitch and tone of one’s voice, effectively making the iPhone one of the cheapest and most effective means of auto-tuning available. Each of these Smule products offers an almost overwhelming amount of customization options as well.

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