Why create your own guitar loops? Because sometimes you nail a part and want to repeat it—or, especially, modify it (create variations, transpose pitch, layer with another part, etc.). My favorite
Why create your own guitar loops? Because sometimes you nail a part and want to repeat it—or, especially, modify it (create variations, transpose pitch, layer with another part, etc.). My favorite use is songwriting. I’ll riff into a DAW, and when I find a section that would make a good hook, I’ll write a song around it. Here are the basics on how to create your own loops.
• There are three common ways to convert standard audio files into time/pitch stretchable formats: Apple Loops (see More Online), Acidized (which you can edit in Sony Acid) or any version of Cakewalk Sonar, and REX files (requires Propellerheads ReCycle). Cubase can create and edit loops in its own format. Almost all Windows DAWs read Acidized and REX files, and many Mac programs can read all three formats.
• Acidized/Apple Loops files work well with percussive or sustained audio, but usually can’t slow the tempo by more than 10 percent or so without artifacts. REX files can slow down more elegantly, but are much better with percussive riffs. Both follow tempo changes in a DAW.
• Because all formats speed up better than they slow down, record at a fairly slow tempo. If you can avoid rushing the tempo, this also lets you play more precisely.
• L oops stretch tempo better than pitch. Sometimes, it’s worth recording in different keys so you don’t have to stretch pitch too far.
• Record to a click track, because consistent loop tempos make it easier to play well with other audio. Although many programs can quantize audio, this isn’t always effective, and it may degrade the sound quality. Most modern programs let you overlay a “groove” on loops, so you’re not necessarily stuck with a metronomic vibe.
• Record without any time-based effects—only a