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Rob Jones

5 hours of video tutorials and written notes, as well as the Maschine projects created in the movies. Plus, there are 240MB of royalty-free samples from Loopmasters included in the course pack. Before signing up, check out the free sample lesson, which provides an introduction to Maschine and the course.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Complete instruction on the use of maschine mk2
  • Explanations and lessons that will give you the tools to create using the vast functionality of the software and hardware
  • Detailed commentaries on editing using the hardware exclusively, minimal mouse clicking required!
  • Tips and tricks to help you get the best out of ni maschine
  • Detailed explanations that will benefit new and experienced users alike

Syllabus

Core Modules

This movie provides an overview of Maschine, explaining how the software and hardware work and demonstrating all of the main features. This is done in the context of a completed project, from the final module on the course, as well as showing how a project can get up and running with the hardware in no time at all. The lesson is intended as a quick guide to everything, whilst the remainder of the course then goes through each of these things and much more, slowly and in greater detail.

Make sure to download the Maschine projects, as well as the complimentary sample pack from Loopmasters, attached to lecture 2 of the course!

Read more

This module starts to teach you how different patterns can be created, predominantly by playing in events with the hardware pads. Then, there is a guide to some important editing operations, including examples of automatic and manual quantizing and adjusting velocity values.

This module looks at the individual parts that make up each group, which are the 16 sound slots that can be played using Maschine's pads. These are often single samples, as you find in Maschine's factory kits, but can also be any instrument or plug-in you choose. However, this lesson focuses on adding and editing samples, so you can see how to create your own group from scratch.

This module looks at the individual parts that make up each group, which are the 16 sound slots that can be played using Maschine's pads. These are often single samples, as you find in Maschine's factory kits, but can also be any instrument or plug-in you choose. However, this lesson focuses on adding and editing samples, so you can see how to create your own group from scratch. (This is a continuation of the previous lecture)

This module teaches the various pad modes available on Maschine, which allow them to be used in a variety of different ways to create patterns, including fixed velocity and 16-velocity modes, keyboard mode and step mode.

This module teaches the various pad modes available on Maschine, which allow them to be used in a variety of different ways to create patterns, including fixed velocity and 16-velocity modes, keyboard mode and step mode. (Continuation of the previous lecture)

This module gives you a thorough explanation of how scenes work, which are the vertical columns in the upper half of the software that contain different combinations of patterns, allowing you to switch from one part of a song to another for realtime jamming, or arrange and play an entire song from start to finish.

This module shows how Maschine's Sampling facility can be used to add your own sounds to songs, by recording and then editing them in a number of ways. There's also a guide to how to slice up larger samples and assign them to Maschine's pads for innovative ways of performing live or producing.

This module shows how Maschine's Sampling facility can be used to add your own sounds to songs, by recording and then editing them in a number of ways. There's also a guide to how to slice up larger samples and assign them to Maschine's pads for innovative ways of performing live or producing. (Continuation of the previous lecture)

This lesson runs you through how to apply effects processing to sounds within Maschine, be they individual sound slots in a group, whole groups or the master output, so all groups simultaneously. As well as providing a guide to the range of effects on offer and how to use them, this should also help to further develop your understanding of the Modules section of the software.

This lesson runs you through how to apply effects processing to sounds within Maschine, be they individual sound slots in a group, whole groups or the master output, so all groups simultaneously. As well as providing a guide to the range of effects on offer and how to use them, this should also help to further develop your understanding of the Modules section of the software. (Continuation of the previous lecture)

This module looks at some more advanced effects processing techniques, including how to automate parameters, how to create send effects and then also how to route sounds in and out of Maschine, allowing them to be mixed and processed using other software or hardware.

This module looks at some more advanced effects processing techniques, including how to automate parameters, how to create send effects and then also how to route sounds in and out of Maschine, allowing them to be mixed and processed using other software or hardware. (Continuation of the previous lecture)

This lesson shows how the Controller Editor can be used to turn Maschine into a comprehensive control surface for Ableton Live.

This bonus tutorial gives a thorough guide to using Maschine in plug-in mode within a DAW like Live or Logic, including how to automate parameters.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Provides detailed commentaries on editing using the Maschine MKII hardware exclusively, which minimizes the need for mouse clicking and keeps the user focused on the hardware
Includes royalty-free samples from Loopmasters, which can be used to create original music and productions without worrying about copyright issues
Explores Maschine's sampling facility, which allows users to add their own sounds to songs by recording and editing them in a number of innovative ways
Teaches how to use the Controller Editor to turn Maschine into a comprehensive control surface for Ableton Live, which expands its functionality
Focuses on Maschine MKII, so users of other versions of Maschine may find some of the hardware-specific instructions to be irrelevant or inapplicable
Requires users to have access to NI Maschine MKII hardware and software, which may be a barrier to entry for some prospective students

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Reviews summary

Comprehensive guide to maschine mkii basics

According to learners, this course provides a very solid foundation for using the Maschine MKII hardware and software. Many highlight the clarity of explanations and helpful demos, finding it particularly good for beginners looking to understand the core functions. The focus on a hardware-centric workflow is a significant plus for students. However, some reviewers mention that it may be too basic for those already familiar with production concepts or Maschine, and that advanced topics are not covered in depth. Overall, it's seen as an excellent guide to get started and build essential skills, though perhaps requiring supplemental learning for advanced users.
Concepts are explained clearly.
"The instructor explains everything clearly and demonstrates the concepts well."
"Excellent course! The instructor is knowledgeable and breaks down complex topics into easy-to-understand steps."
"The structure is logical, building from patterns to scenes to sampling and effects. The demos are clear and concise."
Teaches efficient hardware-based workflow.
"I particularly liked the hands-on examples and the focus on using the hardware."
"The focus on using the hardware without constantly looking at the screen is exactly what I wanted."
"Good coverage of the MKII hardware/software integration. It really emphasizes workflow efficiency using the controller."
"This course significantly improved my workflow."
Excellent starting point for beginners.
"This course is exactly what I needed to get started with my Maschine MKII. The instructor explains everything clearly..."
"A very solid introduction to the Maschine MKII. The pace is good, and the videos are easy to follow. It covers most of the essential features."
"Worth every penny! As a complete beginner to Maschine (but not production), this course was invaluable."
"It covers all the core functions thoroughly. Highly recommend for beginners!"
Minor audio/video quality issues.
"Audio quality in some lessons wasn't the best."
"My only minor quibble is that sometimes the camera angle on the hardware could be better."
Not deep enough for advanced users.
"Some parts felt a little basic if you've already experimented a bit, but it's still a great foundational course."
"It's okay. Covers the basics but doesn't go very deep. If you're already familiar with drum machines or DAWs, you might find it a bit slow."
"The sections on effects routing and advanced topics felt rushed."
"Could use a bit more detail on MIDI mapping and advanced routing scenarios, but for a 'Complete Guide', it's pretty comprehensive..."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Complete Guide to Maschine MKII with these activities:
Practice Basic Music Theory
Reviewing music theory will help you understand the underlying structure of the sounds you're creating in Maschine.
Browse courses on Music Theory
Show steps
  • Review scales and chords.
  • Practice identifying intervals by ear.
  • Learn about rhythm and time signatures.
Read 'The Art of Mixing: A Visual Guide to Recording, Engineering, and Production'
Understanding mixing techniques will greatly enhance your ability to create professional-sounding tracks in Maschine.
View The Art of Mixing on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the chapters on EQ and compression.
  • Study the diagrams illustrating stereo imaging.
  • Experiment with the techniques in Maschine.
Practice Drum Programming
Practicing drum programming will improve your ability to create interesting and complex rhythms using Maschine's pads and step sequencer.
Show steps
  • Create a drum pattern in different genres.
  • Experiment with different velocity settings.
  • Use Maschine's step sequencer to create complex rhythms.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Read 'Mixing Secrets for the Small Studio'
Learning mixing secrets will help you achieve a polished and professional sound in your Maschine productions.
Show steps
  • Read the chapters on gain staging and EQ.
  • Experiment with different compression techniques.
  • Apply the techniques to your Maschine projects.
Create a Short Maschine Tutorial
Creating a tutorial will solidify your understanding of a specific Maschine feature and help you communicate it to others.
Show steps
  • Choose a specific Maschine feature to explain.
  • Record a video demonstrating the feature.
  • Edit the video and add clear explanations.
  • Share the tutorial online.
Remix a Song Using Maschine
Remixing a song will give you practical experience using Maschine to manipulate and transform existing audio.
Show steps
  • Choose a song to remix.
  • Import the song into Maschine.
  • Slice and rearrange the song's elements.
  • Add your own sounds and effects.
  • Mix and master the remix.
Create a Maschine Template
Creating a template will streamline your workflow and allow you to quickly start new projects in Maschine.
Show steps
  • Design a template with your favorite sounds and effects.
  • Organize the template for easy access.
  • Save the template and use it for future projects.

Career center

Learners who complete Complete Guide to Maschine MKII will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Electronic Musician
Electronic Musicians create and perform music using electronic instruments and technologies, such as synthesizers, drum machines, and computer software. The Complete Guide to Maschine MKII helps electronic musicians by teaching how to create patterns, edit samples, apply effects processing, and automate parameters using Maschine. The course also covers how to use Maschine's sampling facility to add original sounds to songs and slice up samples for innovative performance and production techniques. For an electronic musician, the controller allows for minimal mouse clicking, and makes the creative process more physical and efficient. Electronic musicians can use this course to improve their knowledge.
Music Producer
A Music Producer is responsible for overseeing the creative process of recording a song or album. This includes selecting artists, choosing songs, managing recording sessions, and providing feedback to musicians. The Complete Guide to Maschine MKII helps build a foundation in music production by providing complete instruction on the use of Maschine, covering everything from creating patterns and editing samples to applying effects processing and automating parameters. Understanding the full capabilities of Maschine outlined in this course allows a music producer to integrate this hardware and software into their workflow, resulting in greater creative control and efficiency. A budding music producer will benefit from this course to better understand the role of production within music.
Remixer
A Remixer takes existing audio recordings and transforms them into new versions by adding or removing elements, changing the tempo or key, or applying effects processing. The Complete Guide to Maschine MKII provides remixers with the knowledge and skills to use Maschine as a powerful tool for remixing. The course covers how to import samples, slice them up, and assign them to Maschine's pads for innovative ways of performing and producing. It also covers how to apply effects processing and automate parameters, which is essential for creating unique and interesting remixes. Many remixers will benefit from this detailed course.
DJ
DJs select and play music for an audience, typically at nightclubs, parties, or events. DJs use various techniques, such as beatmatching, mixing, and scratching, to create a seamless flow of music. The Complete Guide to Maschine MKII helps a DJ to integrate Maschine into their live performances or studio productions. The course covers how to create patterns, edit samples, and use scenes to switch between different parts of a song in real time. The course also covers applying effects processing to sounds, which can be used to add excitement and energy to a set. A DJ will find this course helpful to better understand the intersection of music and technology.
Sound Designer
A Sound Designer creates or modifies sounds for use in various media, such as video games, films, and television shows. Sound design involves creating new sounds from scratch, manipulating existing sounds, and mixing sounds together to create the desired effect. The Complete Guide to Maschine MKII may be useful for sound designers by teaching how to use Maschine's sampling facility to add original sounds to songs and slice up samples for innovative performance and production techniques. Additionally, the course covers how to apply effects processing to sounds and automate parameters, all of which are valuable techniques for crafting unique and engaging soundscapes. This enhances a sound designers workflow.
Audio Engineer
An Audio Engineer is responsible for the technical aspects of recording, mixing, and mastering audio. Audio engineers use various types of equipment, such as microphones, mixing consoles, and digital audio workstations, to capture and manipulate sound. The Complete Guide to Maschine MKII may be useful for audio engineers by demonstrating how Maschine can be used as a comprehensive control surface for DAWs like Ableton Live and Logic. The course also covers how to route sounds in and out of Maschine, allowing them to be mixed and processed using other software or hardware. An audio engineer can also work with the Maschine's sampling facility.
Composer
Composers create original musical works for various purposes, such as films, television shows, video games, and commercials. Composers often use music software and hardware to create and arrange their compositions. The Complete Guide to Maschine MKII helps composers by teaching how to use Maschine to create patterns, edit samples, and apply effects processing. The course also covers how to use Maschine's sampling facility to add original sounds to compositions and slice up samples. Any composer who wishes to expand their skill set will find this course helpful.
Game Developer
Game Developers create video games for various platforms, such as consoles, computers, and mobile devices. Music and sound effects are an important part of the game development process, as they help to create a more immersive and engaging experience for players. The Complete Guide to Maschine MKII may be useful for game developers by teaching how to create original music and sound effects using Maschine. The course covers how to create patterns, edit samples, apply effects processing, and automate parameters. Understanding the full capabilities of Maschine this way allows a game developer to integrate this work into games.
Multimedia Artist
Multimedia Artists create art using a variety of digital media, such as video, audio, and animation. Music is often an integral part of multimedia art installations and performances. The Complete Guide to Maschine MKII helps multimedia artists by teaching how to create original music and soundscapes using Maschine. The course covers how to create patterns, edit samples, apply effects processing, and automate parameters. A multimedia artist benefits from Maschine's sampling facility to add original sounds to their artwork and slice up samples for innovative purposes. Multimedia artists with a knack for music will benefit from this course.
Music Teacher
A Music Teacher provides music instruction to students of all ages and skill levels. This can include teaching individual lessons, leading group classes, or directing ensembles. The Complete Guide to Maschine MKII may be useful for music teachers who want to incorporate electronic music production into their curriculum. The course provides a comprehensive overview of Maschine, covering everything from the basics of creating patterns to more advanced techniques such as sampling and effects processing. This helps music teachers to teach their students by giving them a comprehensive understanding of many aspects of music.
Content Creator
Content Creators produce various types of media, such as videos, podcasts, and blog posts, for online audiences. Many content creators use music in their content to enhance the viewing or listening experience. The Complete Guide to Maschine MKII helps content creators by teaching how to create original music and sound effects using Maschine. The course covers how to create patterns, edit samples, apply effects processing, and automate parameters. A content creator can also learn with this course how to use Maschine's sampling facility to add original sounds to their videos and podcasts. This is a great way to increase the quality of your content.
Digital Artist
Digital artists create visual art using digital tools and technologies. While primarily focused on visual mediums, sound can play a role in enhancing digital art experiences, particularly in interactive installations or multimedia projects. The Complete Guide to Maschine MKII may be useful for digital artists looking to incorporate original music or soundscapes into their work. The course teaches skills such as pattern creation, sample editing, and effects processing within Maschine. This allows digital artists to create custom audio elements that complement their visual creations, adding depth and dimension to their digital artwork. A digital artist will especially benefit from this course if they have an interest in music.
Podcast Producer
Podcast producers are responsible for overseeing the creation of podcasts, from recording and editing audio to adding music and sound effects. The Complete Guide to Maschine MKII may be useful for podcast producers who want to create custom music intros, outros, or background music for their podcasts. The course teaches skills such as pattern creation, sample editing, and effects processing in Maschine. This gives podcast producers the ability to add unique and professional-sounding audio elements to their podcasts, enhancing the overall listening experience. A podcast producer may especially benefit from this course.
Audio Visual Technician
Audio Visual Technicians set up and operate audio and video equipment for events, conferences, and performances. While this role primarily focuses on the technical aspects of sound and video, having a deeper understanding of music production can be beneficial. The Complete Guide to Maschine MKII may be useful for audio visual technicians who want to expand their knowledge of music creation using Maschine. The course covers audio routing, effects processing, and working with samples, which allows technicians better insight into signal flow and audio manipulation. An audio visual technician will find this useful in improving their understanding of music.
YouTuber
A Youtuber is someone who creates and uploads video content to the YouTube platform. High-quality audio is essential for creating engaging and professional-looking YouTube videos. The Complete Guide to Maschine MKII may be useful for YouTubers who want to create their own custom music or sound effects for their videos. The course covers creating patterns, editing samples, and applying effects processing within Maschine. This is an excellent way for YouTubers to add a personal touch to their videos. A youtuber may find this course helpful for music.

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Complete Guide to Maschine MKII.
Offers practical advice on achieving professional-sounding mixes in a home studio environment. It covers essential mixing techniques, including EQ, compression, and spatial processing. This book is particularly helpful for understanding how to optimize your mixes within Maschine's software environment. It highly recommended resource for aspiring music producers.
Provides a visual approach to understanding mixing concepts. It breaks down complex audio engineering techniques into easily digestible diagrams and explanations. This book is useful for understanding how to apply effects processing within Maschine, especially when routing sounds and automating parameters. It is commonly used by audio engineering students and professionals.

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