Open Source Creative Suite (Part 2)

An alternative to the Abode Creative Suite

Introduction

The Adobe Creative Suite is a Software package used by Art Designers around the world, but unfortunately it's not free.

In this series we will try to give an overview of the different parts of the Suite and where possible, give alternative Software for you to use.

This week we will be discussing:

Illustrator

Illustrator is a vector-based design tool, which is different from the pixels that Photoshop works with. The problem with pixels is that if you risize them, something called 'aliasing' will occur. Instead of nicely rounded circle, you'll get a circle made out of little blocks.

Vectors, on the other hand, work with calculations. When making a circle, it saves the circumference and the shape (circle, ellips). Because of that, when you're resizing, you're actually resizing. The circle stays the same shape and stays clear at any size whatsoever. 

See image below for an example:

The free alternative to Illustrator that we will discuss this week is: 

Inkscape

There are a few differences between both pieces of Software, of which Illustrator is actually the better one.
The differences aren't really that big, since most of the functionality can also be achieved for Inkscape by using a few plug-ins.

CMYK Compatibility 

CMYK is the standard color system being used for most of the printwork around the world. So this means it's kinda crucial for the average Desktop Publisher. 

Illustrator has this feature built into the software, but Inkscape doesn't. To get around this you need to add the CMYK profile to Inkscape, then export the file and import it in Scribus, which is an alternative to InDesign (and will be discussed in the next part). 

See the Link for the workaround.

Mesh-Based Gradients

There is a big possibility most of you are familiar with gradients. Which simply is the transition of two colors between each other.

Inkscape and Illustrator both have this function, but Illustrator also has 'mesh-based' gradients. This means that you're able to select multiple points and colors for the transition, instead of just two, which makes it possible to create images like the one below.

Inkscape doesn't have this functionality 'out of the box'. There is a beta version of Inkscape somewhere out there, but I wouldn't recommend using this because of:

Stability

Personally I have found few problems with Illustrators' stability. However, Inkscape does have the tendency to crash, especially when many layers and blur effects are active. So when Inkscape it is wise to save often, but I think this applies to most software.

Next to the previously mentioned differences, there's not a whole lot of variation in functionality when comparing the two.
Sometimes Inkscape seems a bit smoother and precise, especially when using the nodes, but that just might be a personal preference.

Get Inkscape Here

Tutorials

Full Circle Magazine Tutorials show are great way to learn the basics for working with Inkscape.

Part 1    Part 2     Part 3

Next time we will be discussing InDesign!

Written by: DatAsian

Translation by: Boundless

Open Source Creative Suite (Part 1)

An alternative to the Adobe Creative Suite

Introduction

The Adobe Creative Suite is a Software package used by Art Designers around the world. From designing a logo, to editing a video, the Creative Suit offers a solution for all. Unfortunately it's not free, with a license costing you €60,- a month and an extra €10,- if you're a business. This will cost you more than €700,- a year for a license.

We will try to give an overview of the different parts of the Suite and where possible, give alternative software for you to use. The idea is that you can replace all of the functionality of the Creative Suite with free software that gives you just as much, or more possibilities than the original.

Please notice that we will discussing software compatible with Windows. Free alternative software is available for the Mac, but it won't be covered in this Blog.

We'll start off with one the most used elements of the suite:

Photoshop

Photoshop is perhaps one the most famous pieces of Software on the world. It's classified as a pixel-based editor, which means it works with a grid, as opposed to vectors (which will be discussed next week).

Photoshop can be used to:
- Edit photo's
- Design website concepts
- Making logo's web-ready (usually downsizing an image to 150x150 px)
- Making art with brushes and shapes (the way of the painter)
- Designing posters and flyers (although InDesign is better for this)

Functionality:
- Add filters (blur, sepia, charcoal etc.)
- Re-sizing pictures/logo's
- Edit contrasts/colors- Use of layers

This is only the tip of the iceberg, so you would expect it's quite hard to find a decent alternative. But, there is at least one called:

The Gimp

The word Gimp is actually an abbreviation for GNU Image Manipulation Program (GNU was one the first free operating systems). It features most of the functionality that is also available in Photoshop. 

This document was used to compare the two, the following table represents a summary of that article. A 'V' indicates a winner in the category. A 'D' in any of the boxes means it's a draw.

Counting all the points together, it's close to a draw, which basically means that 90% of the functionality from Photoshop is also available in The Gimp. Sometimes the Gimp developers added even more functionality and options than Photoshop.

Download the Gimp here

Tutorials:
English
Dutch
Starters Tutorial from Your Favourite Gimp Teacher
Introduction about different tools and functions for layers (40 min)
Natural skin and eye retouching (9 min)

Next week we will be discussing Illustrator!

Written by: DatAsian

Translation by: Boundless

Product Review: Novation SL MkII

A few months ago, another product of Novation was reviewed, so I don't think they need another introduction. But there must be something about Novations' design that sets it apart from others, because even after lengthy comparisons with other brands and models, the preference still went out to the SL Mk II. The model that is being reviewed is the variant with 25 keys, but it's also available with 49 and 61 keys. On top of that there is also a model with no keys, called the Zero SL. There are some small differences between these versions, most notably the presence of a cross-fader on the Zero SL. 

I would also like to note that I have no experience with Mk I, which had two screens. They probably decided to reduce the price with this version and included only one screen, and it works intuitive enough. Two screens would seem like a luxury in this case, since all the functions are displayed by activating the button next to the row, or just touching any of the sensitive pots or faders. It's possible to customize the functions off these features, as well as the buttons and drum pads in the rows below and above them. This is all done by using the Automap software, but more on that later.

First off, there are a total number of thirty-two buttons to assign functions to. One row also doubles as a Transport controller by activating that button from the Settings section. This section also contains buttons to edit and manage templates or global settings.

Next up are two rows of eight pots, from which the top row is endless and surrounded by a LED ring. This is a nice visual extra, which also helps by clearly showing the position it's in. The pots on the lower row are limited and don't have the ring around it. They also turn a bit tighter as compared to the upper row. The tightness is comparable to the eight faders, which are nothing special but get the job done.

The eigth drum pads on the bottom left of the main section, feature a rubber finish, which looks and feels nice. It's even possible to set calibration for the sensitivity of the pads, but even on the lowest settings I still think it takes too much force to activate it. For example, the drum pads as featured on the Launchkey Mini are more to my taste.

Next to the many features and customisation options, the thing that really surprised me the most about the MkII was the FATAR keyboard. The velocity sensitivity is very accurate and the whole thing just feels like a real instrument from the moment the keys are pushed, untill release. Through the inputs at the back of the device, an expression or sustain pedal can be added. This side also contains inputs and outputs for MIDI, and also gives the choice to power with USB or external (9V) power source. 

Two other features that are on the MkII, are the Pitch/Mod Joystick and 'Xpression' Pad which are also completely custom assignable. 
The Joystick is pretty nice (although mine squeaks a little), first of all it allows you to change the behaviour using a switch on the bottom of the device. It can either snap back to the starting position, or remain free on the y-axis. The accuracy takes some getting used to, but can be a great asset during live performances. The Pad however, doesn't really work like you would expect it to. It takes a relatively high amount of force before it registers any movement. As a result it's not very accurate and I wouldn't trust it during a live performance.

The Automap software is where the controller really shines, making it easy to customize and create templates according to your preferences. Just push the Learn button, touch the parameter that needs to be controlled and push the button that you want to assign it to. It's also possible to bring up the Automap Menu, using the View button. From here you can edit any parameter easily using the same steps, but instead it's possible to select a parameter from a list. You can even add more pages to assign functions to, so the only limit to customization is your creativity. 

If you're looking for a good studio controller that has everything you need, I'd definitely recommend the SL MkII. It really freshened up my workflow, and allowed me to pay more attention to the music instead of staring at the screen. The Automap software is supported by most DAW's and allows you to customize every function of the many pots, faders, buttons and pads on the device.

If you're looking to buy it just because of the extra features, I wouldn't recommend it. The extra features all have a great vision behind them, but the execution is a little less. The Joystick is by far the more usefull one, but still misses the accuracy and feel of the keyboard. Although it's hard to match that quality.

Product Review: Reloop Beatmix

Since 1996, Reloop has been focussing on creating the best possible turntables. Their line of Beatmixes is one of their latest efforts, made to appeal to beginners and advanced users. Beatmixes is plural, since there are multiple versions. However, this review describes the one with no number at the end, which was created with and for VirtualDJ.

When looking at the Beatmix for the first time, many will notice the huge aluminium jogs first. When giving them a spin, they feel like they are able to withstand many gigs and practice sessions. You'll be using them to browse through songs or for scratching, depending on which jog mode is activated. It's also nice that you are able to manage the sensitivity with small knobs at the back. This side also contains the USB entrance, sound outputs and the possibility for a Kensington Lock.The front contains inputs for a Headphone and a Microphone. Not too much, not too little.

Back on top, in the middle, is a simple browse section which is well executed. The decently sized knob allows easy access to folders, and makes it possible to search through many titles in a short amount of time. The 'A' and 'B' buttons for their respective decks make it easy to find and load the right song without having to touch the mouse. 

When a song is loaded, it's time to play it. The play section has four nicely sized buttons, controlling the Sync, Cup, Cue and Play features respectively. The Cup feature is a combination of Cue and Play, which instantly plays from a selected Cue point. The possibilities of the buttons are increased by the addition of Shift button, which in my opinion is genius. Holding Shift allows you to Return to the beginning of the song, Tap the tempo, activate Fader Start and Keylock.  

The EQ and Master sections are pretty self-explanatory and provides you with all you need. All the dials are nicely sized and allows precise control over the parameters. 

The faders also don't need much explanation and work like you would expect them to, sturdy but loose enough for those smooth transitions. In addition to the faders for the tempo, there are also Pitch Bend buttons.

The last section is reserved for FX, samples and loops. In my opinion this is where the Shift button really shines. It doesn't matter if you're using FX, samples or both, it's a great feeling to have everything under control using this small section. Setting up and controlling loops is made very easy as well, including the ability to move it in the right position in advance, or making a perfect loop on the fly. 

To conclude, I think it's really nice that they managed to put in so many functions without making it confusing or too big. The decent size also improves the portability and the quality of the materials give a sense of security that it will not break easily. All in all, it's simple enough for the DJ that's just getting started, but it has enough functions to allow an advanced DJ to be creative.

Product Review: AverMedia Live Gamer Portable

Avermedia is a Taiwanese company, founded in 1990. In the beginning they focussed on Research and Development for Digital Video Technology. After becoming a leading company in the computer market, they broadened their scope and are now devoted to improving entertainment experiences. Can the Live Gamer Portable do this as well?

Ever since I was an early teen, playing Halo 2 multiplayer with a few friends, I have dreamt of directly capturing my screen footage. Although there were options available, I didn't have the money to buy them. So all I had was my dad's camera pointed at the screen, which at least helped me analyze my game. So now about 10 years later, I decided to get one to make game video's for Majestic Entertainment. Has my dream come true?

When taking it out of the box for the first time, the first thing you'll probably notice is the abundance of cables. You won't need all of it, unless you have all consoles (except Wii) or PC. The HDMI cable might not be sufficient for everybody, since it's really short, but I think it's really nice that everything you need is included. 

The instruction booklet gives you easy instructions on how to set it all up and within 10 minutes it's good to go. It's possible to record directly to a harddrive or (to make it portable) to an SD-card. There's even a small pouch included which is great for people who are always on the move, or just a nice way to store it when not using it for a while. 

When everything is connected properly, the device will show you by displaying a blue light, if not it will flash. By pressing the big button it will start recording and display a pulsing red light. The included software allows you to setup some configurations for recording like the definition and size (mbps). The output captured by the device is exactly as expected. It does however seem to miss a frame every once in a while, but this doesn't happen very often and is hardly noticeable. 

All in all, I couldn't have wished for a better device to fulfill my long-term dream of capturing game content. For the same price, there devices that are more or less the same quality. However, some don't include all the necessary cables, which can mean you're spending more in the end. There are less expensive capture cards, but they don't have the same quality. It's up to you to decide which one will be most suitable for your needs. 

Product Review: Propellerhead Balance

Propellerhead is a Swedish company founded in 1994 by three people. The first product they released was called ReCycle, which allowed users to change the tempo of a loop without affecting the pitch. In the years following that, they released several products which were marketed to be used together with Cubase. But in the year 2000 they released their own DAW called Reason, which had many pro's when compared to the competition. In 2009 they released Record, which has won several awards. So most people would agree that they make quality software, but can the same be said about their shot at hardware?

In comes the Balance, equipped with a crazy amount of inputs and outputs. With the standard outputs for headphones and speakers, two mic inputs, two guitar inputs and two keyboard inputs (I think that should do it). Both volumes are adjustable by the two big knobs on the bottom of the device, and turning them feels very smooth.

If there are any devices connected, the ones that are currently active are indicated by a small light. The knobs to the left decide the volume and feel sturdy and lock in place. Even better is that everything can be recorded with a 96kHz sound quality. 

In terms of looks, it's definitely not an ugly duckling. The black finish feels almost like rubber and is soothingly soft to the touch. In my opinion the angle of the device makes it look good on any desk and a quick glance at the device provides an overview of everything you need to know. When all the inputs and outputs are taken, it can be a bit of a cable clutter at the back, but I guess that's unavoidable in any studio.

Good news and bad news for everyone who has become interested in Propellerheads after this review. It seemed that they thought that hardware was out of their league and is therefore offering major discounts off bundles with Reason Essentials. Mine even came with a free upgrade to Reason 7 and free Rack Extensions, so I advice you to look around for the best possible deal!

Pro's 
- High quality sampling up to 96kHZ
- Many different inputs and outputs
- Good design

Con's 
- They don't make them anymore

Product Review: Novation Launch-Key Mini

Product Review

Novation 'Launch-Key Mini' 

Novation is an English company founded in the year 1992 and has been a part of Focusrite Audio Engineering Ltd. since 2004. The company is perhaps most famous for it's software applications 'Basstation' and 'V-Station', which are both included with the Launch-Key Mini that was released recently. These applications have some really cool features, but sadly I can't use them in Reason. However, any other DAW supporting VST plug-ins will run them. Novation also offers a wide variety of hardware equipment, including many keyboards, and some created specifically for optimal use of their own software. An interesting company to say the least.

Now on to the Launch-Key, since most people would agree that it looks really appealing in the picture, with all the colorful lights and what-not. And when taking it out of the box for the first time, it doesn't disappoint. It's really amazing that such a small device could have so many features. It doesn't trade size for functionality which is always a big plus if you travel a lot. The Launch-Key weighs next to nothing and can fit in almost any bag. The lack of weight presumably comes from the housing, which on the bottom looks like some cheap plastic toy. The top has a nice metallice finish though, and remains cleaner and more scratch-free when compared to more expansive hardware.

And since you'll mostly be looking at the top, it doesn't even matter that much. You'll probably be too busy playing with the shiny keys, which feel just like someone would expect them to do, accompanied by a good sensitivity. The drum-pads feel very stable and are easy to get used to. It doesn't seem to register very light taps however, but I presume that is because they are able to withstand a relatively high amount of force. The knobs, although nothing special, feel sturdy. Some people might argue that they are a bit loose, and prefer a tighter feel when turning the knob.

To close off I'd like to warn users of older DAW's, because of compatibility problems. When the Launch-Key was acquired, I was using Reason 5 when version 7 was available. Therefore it took me a couple of days of searching for solutions until it worked. It does however work flawlessy with most, if not all the latest version of DAW's.

• Pro's

Everything in one

Small, easy to travel with 

•  Con's

Older DAW compatibility problems