Algorithmic Arts Releases SoftStep v1.3 as Free Download
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SoftStep Screen Shot
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May 21, 2000
SoftStep is a Windows 95/98/2000 based modular MIDI step sequencer
patterned somewhat after the modular analog step sequencers. SoftStep
drives MIDI synths and sound cards in real time, and it also records
standard MIDI files.
SoftStep v1.3 is now available in 3 levels of functionality: SoftStep
Basic, which is free, plus SoftStep LE and SoftStep Pro, which require
purchase of upgrade licenses. Each level of SoftStep gives a wider range of
algorithmic music tools.
SoftStep Basic is a complete software step sequencer package. It is not
time limited or crippled in any way. The focus of SoftStep Basic is
software emulation of the old modular analog sequencers, and as such it far
exceeds what would be practical or even possible to build in hardware. It
offers nine different sequencer modules, plus an additional 22 support
modules such as switches and clocks; and it allows up to 99 copies of each
module.
SoftStep LE is a good mix of classical step sequencing and general
algorithmic music functions. It includes all the features of SoftStep Basic
plus additional algorithmic components including math and logic functions,
test-based switching, rhythm generators, and more extensive MIDI control
options.
SoftStep Pro is a comprehensive algorithmic composition program that
supports practically all the different methods of generating algorithmic
music including fractal and chaos functions, image to music translation,
Markov chains and other probability functions, and a rich set of tools to
translate DNA/Protein data to music. SoftStep Pro is one of the most
extensive algorithmic music programs available; and it offers its wide
range of sophisticated algorithms in easy to use, modular plug-in format.
For more information, visit their web site at www.geneticmusic.com.
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