In Introducing Reason 4 (Sybex, 2008) author Cliff Truesdell covers basic and intermediate use of Propellerhead's Reason 4 software, including all of the program’s virtual instruments, audio effects, and sequencing functionality. Along with the necessary technical information, each chapter includes a consistent focus on  experimentation and an emphasis on encouraging readers to incorporate their own ideas into the program’s workflow in order to use Reason in creative ways.

The book also contains examples, from interviews and from research, of how other users at every level have “invented” their own workflow and methodology for creating music with Reason. The examples are described in detail and the actual Reason Session files are included on the CD.

Download a sample chapter here

Click here to purchase Introducing Reason 4

 

From Amazon.com:

Electronic musicians, rockers, rappers, and regular folks use Reason virtual studio software to create and self-record studio-quality music on PCs and Macs. Introducing Reason 4 shows you how to harness all the tools of this popular package to produce your own professional sound.

Veteran studio engineer and professional musician Cliff Truesdell explains everything you need to get going—from Reason's full array of virtual instruments, effects, and functions to priceless inside-the-studio insights and tips you can use to start creating original pieces right away. You'll also come away with useful skills you can apply in any studio session, whether digital or analog.

  • Take a tour of Reason's interface, instruments, and effects

  • Record and sequence complete drum tracks with the Redrum drum sampler

  • Use Reason's NN-XT and NN-19 samplers to create instruments from any original sound source you wish

  • Get a close-up look at each of Reason's synthesizers, including how they can be used to create and shape a limitless range of sounds

  • Blend loops, effects, and samples—then mix and export your results

  • Take advantage of Reason's incredible routing options to create your own original combinations of instruments and effects

  • Learn about MIDI recording and how Reason uses MIDI to create and sequence performances

  • Explore new devices such as the Thor Polysonic Synthesizer, the ReGroove mixer, and the RPG-8 monophonic arpeggiator



About the Author

Cliff Truesdell is a recording engineer, producer, and musician at Take Root Recording Studio in San Francisco. He also has recording credits as an arranger, multi-instrumentalist, and songwriter. Cliff cofounded the punk rock band Black Furies, which has released three CDs and continue to record and tour. Cliff's original music has appeared in a variety of media, including television shows, independent movies, and video games. He is author of Mastering Digital Audio Production (Sybex).