
Most people who are serious about making music on their Macs are already deeply committed to one software package or another. If you’re already using Reason or looking for a new option, you should check out Propellerhead Software’s latest release: Reason 7 ($449). Set to be released next quarter, this update includes big improvements to the existing music creation software.
The biggest new feature this time around is the addition of MIDI out support, which was heavily requested by users. It also automatically turns your recordings into single notes, allowing for greater timing perfection. Mixing has been greatly improved, with abilities to group your tracks in the mixer, create parallel channels, and more. One of the coolest things the company has shown off is the Spectrum EQ window: you can adjust the EQ on your tracks, and see the changes in real time. Reason 7 is a free upgrade if you purchase the previous version now.