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The ease of music creation in Soundation means it lend itself to a wide range of possible uses. It is quick and easy to make music. The loops are all in key with each other, and adjust their speed to the set BMP, so it is just click and drag.

This is the service that I used to create the background music for the Edvertisment videos. The footage for the Edvertisement video above was the entire production of the song below.

Soundation is also powerful enough to create complex pieces of music. Unlimited tracks, effects and automation will please the most demanding composer. Soundation is a freemium service, which means that you can pay for more features. These features include extra loop libraries, and the capacity to record straight into Soundation.

Using in the Classroom

Soundation uses fall into two categories. The first use is as a source of music for production purposes. Soundation creaes royalties free music that can for use in anything which requires a backing track. A second way I've had students use Soundation is for them to create backing tracks that they can then rap over or sign over. I have found this effective in with some students whom I was struggling to engage.

How do I get started?

You can get to Soundation by going to soundation.com. You can create an account, or just log in using your Google account. The site has a pretty good 'How to' section, including some helpful videos.

Do I need a paid account?

The two reasons you would have a paid account is more loops, and being able to record straight into Soundation. I have used Soundation for many years, without a paid account and this is why. The number of loops available provide plenty of scope for a wide range of music, so I see no need to buy more. Secondly, to record, download the wav file, import it into a free audio software (like audacity) and record in there.

Edvertisement: Auphonic

Using in the Class

Auphonic could be a useful tool for both teachers and students in any scenario where a voice is being recorded. It would be very useful when students are doing voice over presentations, videos, screen-casts or radio/podcasts.

The mobile apps, make the use so easy, and can also be used to record in the field.

The best thing is that it is very effective. I started using this tool in response to improve the audio of the Edvertisement, with excellent results.

Getting Started

Web Version

To access Auphonic just go to their website, and sign up using your email. The video below will show you how to use Auphonic.

The Web version of Auphonic doesn't record the voice straight from the computer. Rather it processes an audio file that you upload. If you are not sure how to record audio on your computer, then check out the links below:

• Windows 8.1
• Windows 7
• Mac

Mobile Vesion

You can also get it for the iPhones and iPads and for Android devices. For the most part these tools have the same features as the web version, with two differences.

The first is a plus. The tool records for the user, so there is no need to use another app to record. Although, there is the ability to process audio recorded by other apps.

The second difference is a negative, in that you cannot access the download the processed file onto you device for the use with other apps. You will need to use a PC for that.