If your looking for a simple music software to get started with try Music Maker from a company called MAGIX.

Does anyone have an old midi controller I could have?

I actually started out with Magix back in early 2000. I'm going to have to agree with you here simply for the ease of use. Good starter program.

No.

Starting at around $50 you can find something. Check ebay, craigslist, your local music shop. Buy used. I'm beginning to use a Roland U-20 from the '80s. You can find something with a midi out to use, I'm sure.

I want to learn the art of mastering

Are you confident in your recording and mixing skills yet?

On the topic of recording and mixing, I was wondering if anyone can refer me to a good DVD or channel or something that covers a lot of the basics for things like that. My step-dad wants to get into this more and he doesn't really know of a good place to start, nor do I. I just play guitar for kicks. He seems mainly concerned about getting the vocals to sound right with the rest of the song. I've learned that forums can be the best place to get a kick-start for just about anything; hoping you guys can be of help. He's rocking Ableton Live and Reaper atm.

Thanks in advanced,
New Membah

I'm a pro tools junkie :D... but I love producing with fl studio or reason

Got a question here that may seem stupid, but keep in mind, I know nothing about recording equipment. My expertise is on the keys….

I'm getting tired of recording my demos using a cell phone. Anyone who listened to "Vienna" in the Forum Member Showcase knows how bad the sound quality is, and the bass notes doesn't come through well. Is there a small, inexpensive piece of equipment I can get that would allow me to record a song with two or three tracks? I don't need audiophile quality.

I realize I could just Google this, but it's always better to actually talk to someone.

The easiest way would be a halfway decent USB mic. That way thae USB mic and your recording software are the only two things you would have to buy.

I have a Blue Yeti Mic I really like alot, runs about 100 bucks. http://cdn.thetechreviewer.com/wp-co...5/features.jpg

The other option is getting cheap audio interface (like an Maudio fast track or something) and buying a mic you like to go along with it. (xlr connection) This way would probably yield a wider array of options and be better for you in the future, but is also more expensive.