the basics....

INTRODUCTION

If you are completely new to the world of computer music, then hopefully this guide will help you out. This is an absolute beginners guide.

All the downloads available on this site are freeware or donationware.

WHICH IS BEST FOR MAKING MUSIC, MAC OR PC (OR LINUX?)

This choice is a personal one. Choose which ever platform you are comfortable with. I try and cater for everyone here. Although it is fairly obviously that as the predominant OS, Windows gets the lions share of VST freeware written for it.

Linux is making huge progress in becoming a very viable platform for music making. Don't discount it, especially as its free.

EXTRACTING FILES.

To extract the files on this site you will often be confronted with a compressed file. Generally either aWinZip file or a WinRar file.

If you are on a mac, then use UnrarXfor rar files or Stuffit.

INSTALLING THE FILES

Once you have downloaded the file it will generally be a VST or AU file. Installing the file is as simple as dragging the file into your VST or AU (components) folder.

If you do not have a VST or AU (Components) folder, this is because you need to download or purchase a DAW. There are a number of freeware DAWs available. Although you dont necessarily need a DAW to make music.

MAKE SOME MUSIC

It sounds obvious, but don't just end up as a collector of VSTs. Use the damn things. Theres no point having 200 GB of VSTs if you dont actually use any of them. Upload your completed songs and post a link or embed them in the "YOUR MUSIC" section. I will feature the best.