Steinberg's entry-level Sequel digital audio sequencer (Mac/Win, $99) is designed to make music creation quick and easy, especially for your kids. It makes basic music-creation tools accessible in a single window and includes a virtual mixer, more than 600 software instruments, and effects processing, including EQ and dynamics processing on every mixer channel. Under the hood is the same powerful sound engine that drives Steinberg's Cubase 4 professional sequencer.

Sequel combines linear- and pattern-based arranging, and audio and instrument parts can follow tempo and key changes in real time. You can record up to 24-bit, 44.1 kHz audio; import and export MIDI files and most audio files; change the pitch or duration; automate settings such as master volume; and cut, copy, paste, and move notes and loops. You also get MIDI quantization with variable swing.

The program comes with more than 3.5 GB of loops and sounds, and you can add your own and those from third parties. You simply find the right loop or sound using the MediaBrowser, preview it while your song is playing, and drag the sound into your project. You also get more than 50 audio track presets that let you quickly set up your track for recording specific instrument types and vocals.

In Live mode, you can load the 16 live-performance pads with song sections and variations and play, rearrange, and remix the parts on the fly. DJs can click on a section, loop it as often as they want, and then fire off the next section, reacting to the crowd. Steinberg/Yamaha Corporation of America; tel. (714) 522-9011; email info@steinberg.net; Web www.steinberg.net or www.sequel-music.net.