Music software to go with a MIDI controller?

[frisbieinstein]

So assuming I get a MIDI controller, what music software should I get to go with it, and what sort of computer do I need to run the thing?

 

[z_z]

Your midi controller should come with "light" versions of popular DAW software like Reason, Ableton etc etc.

It's your preference on whether you want a Windows or OSX (Mac)-based computer. You can check the minimum specs of the software to see whether your computer matches up to it. For music, it's always ideal to have high processor speed and high RAM.

 

[squarehero]

My choice of software is Ableton Live because it's good with looping and quick starting your production.

Get a 61 key midi controller at a minimum for proper playing. Preferably, your computer should be a core 2 duo at the minimum.

If not, a pentium 4 works for like 3-4 tracks in Ableton Live before you need to Freeze i.e. render the tracks to wav temporarily. It all depends on what VSTs/instruments you use.

Ableton Live min requirements are as follows:
1.5 GHz CPU or faster
1 GB RAM (2 GB recommended)
Windows XP or Windows Vista
QuickTime 6.5 or higher
Windows-compatible soundcard (preferably with an ASIO driver)
DVD-ROM drive

 

[Cheez]

The choice of software depends on the type of music you are going to play/write. Otherwise, it's almost impossible to answer your question.

The choice of hardware depends on the software you use, and how you are going to use it.