I would like to see some content added on subjects like MIDI. Each of the topics covers MIDI as it relates to a particular DAW, but I never studied up on it and I have never used it extensively, so I would love to have a MIDI "Core Concepts". There are a few DAWs out that are not represented on Groovebox (ACID, Digital Performer), but what they do have is there in abundance.
Attention Captivation
The website design is stellar. It is eye catching and grabs your attention from the welcome page. Much thought went into Groovebox content, but they didn't forget the user interface. It is a service that you WANT to use.
There is very useful member forum where you get your questions anwered by the Groovebox founders as well as the folks behind the videos.
Reusability
If ever something could be classified as reusable, it is this website. Groovebox Music offers so much content that it is impossible to NOT want to go back for "refresher courses" or to add to you bag of tricks for an upcoming session. It will definitely get you out of a bind and will probably get those creative juices flowing. If, like me, you ever find yourself supplementing your main DAW with a second program (I recently added Reason 4, for example), then this is the best way to just dive right in and start producing.
The videos guide you through, step by step, making it so easy to follow along. If you need a break, pause the video until you catch up.
Value vs. Cost
There are different cost breakdowns for accessing the content. You can pay one time for one topic. You can pay for one month for one topic or one month for the entire Groovebox library. You can also pay for one year, giving you access to any topic, including anything newly added, at anytime for the length of your membership. With pricing ranging from $30 for one month to $375 for the year, there is something for the private project studio owner and the commercial studio. The information is invaluable. You owe it to your music to at least check the site out.
Overall Comment
While on the phone with a rep from Sweetwater.com, I was asking about books on the latest version of Pro Tools and he suggested I browse over to GrooveBoxMusic.com. I am glad I did because any book or video would be hard pressed to offer the wealth of information served up by Asa Doyle and Antony Livoti. I use the site on a regular basis and I have picked up more useful tidbits there than from any book. The content also encouraged me to add a couple of digital audio workstations to my "toolbox". I only wish I had discovered it sooner.
Comprehension
10.0
Depth
of Information
8.0
Interest
Level
10.0
Reusability
10.0
Value
vs. Cost
9.0
Overall
Score
9.4
Chris White owns SIX 2-0 Studios, a Pro Tools based studio in Pensacola, specializing in music production for film, recording, editing and video post-production. He is actively involved with an orphanage in Neuvo Laredo, Mexico and has recently produced a documentary about Casa Hogar Elim and its founder. He is also composing the film's score.
