You have a tune in your head, and you want to get it onto a page or into a recording. Most people stall there, because they can't play it well enough to capture it or write it out. Quartet X2 Music Studio Platinum Edition is built for that gap. You write the music on screen, hear it played back, and print it as sheet music.
Quick facts
- Platforms: Windows 95/98/ME, Windows NT/2000, Windows XP
- Price: $19.95
- Trial: a free trial copy is offered, and purchases carry a 30-day money-back guarantee
- File formats: WAV, MP3, MIDI and the native Quartet SNG format
Key features
Compose scores on 12 channels with Quartet Composer
Quartet Composer is a 12-channel instrumental composition tool. You use it to build scores, themes, background music and percussion sections. It also includes a score editor.
Print your own sheet music, lyrics included
Quartet SongWriter is a notation program that works with Quartet Composer. You create and print sheet music, and you can put your own lyrics under the notes.
Record and play back in WAV, MP3 and MIDI
The recording and playback module handles WAV, MP3 and MIDI files, plus the native SNG format.
Play notes from your computer keyboard
Quartet Keyboard is a MIDI keyboard you play with your computer keyboard. You can create your own keyboard schemes to copy the fingering of a piano or another instrument.
Build full-length themes with Melodymaker
Melodymaker is a toolbar for creating complex, full-length themes with mathematical precision.
Learn as you go
A complete HTML Help section and a Quartet Tutorial Wizard are included to help you learn the program.
Who it's for
It suits beginners who want to write and print their first pieces. It also suits hobby composers who want a low-cost tool for scores, background music and lyrics sheets.
Pros and cons
- Pro: notation, composing and recording are in one package.
- Pro: you can try it free before buying.
- Pro: the price is low.
- Con: it is built for older Windows versions, up to Windows XP.
- Con: it is MIDI-centred, so it is not a full audio production suite.
FAQs
Can I try it first?
Yes. A free trial copy is available.
Can I print sheet music?
Yes. Quartet SongWriter creates and prints sheet music, with lyrics if you want them.
Which file formats does it record and play?
WAV, MP3, MIDI and the native Quartet SNG format.
Is there a refund option?
The vendor offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.
System requirements
Windows 95/98/ME, Windows NT/2000 or Windows XP.