Cakewalk Tutorial: Step Sequencer
Presenter: Zane, Simple Green Tech
Introduction
- Focus: Creating beats and loops with Cakewalk's step sequencer
- Recommends using a sampler plugin over the default drum kit plugin
- Suggested Sampler: Sitala (free VST plugin)
Setting Up
Adding a Plugin
- Click on instruments
- Type in 'Sitala'
- Drag Sitala to desired area
- Default options should be fine, click OK
- To view instrument, click the little icon
Sitala Overview
- Comes with an 808 kit by default
- Option to drag and drop your own samples
Using Cakewalk's Step Sequencer
- Right-click in a blank area
- Go to view, select Step Sequencer
- Default load: 12 rows (can add more with plus sign)
- Recommend increasing from 4 to 8 or more beats for variety
Drawing a Drum Beat
- Click to add a drum
- Right-click to remove a note
- Preview your beat
Adjusting Velocity
- Click triangle next to the instrument
- Select 'Velocity'
- Click on the line to adjust velocity
- Useful for a more 'human' feel
Adding Notes Quickly
- Right-click after selecting a note
- Go to 'Fill Every'
- Choose interval (e.g., fill every 2 notes)
- Remove unwanted notes later
Longer Notes
- Place notes for desired length
- Hold 'Ctrl' and click and drag across
- Suitable for basslines
- To remove, hold 'Ctrl' and right-click
Viewing in Piano Roll
- Go to 'View' > 'Piano Roll'
- Option to make edits here
Conclusion
- Emphasizes the ease of creating beats and loops
- Suggests additional resources and related videos
Call to Action:
- Thumbs up if you liked the video
- Subscribe for more content
- "Keep creating"
Additional Links
- How to add plugins to Cakewalk
- 19 free drum plugins video