Live from San Francisco, Apple has just introduced GarageBand, entry level music production software -- a genre long-missing from the Mac platform. The software is being demoed by John Mayer (with the admission that he's "a guitarrist," hence playing only in C). You can use GarageBand as a 64-track audio/MIDI sequencer, loop-based tool (a la Soundtrack, complete with 1000 pro-quality loops), or simply take advantage of it as a 50-instrument virtual instrument. Export to iTunes bounces directly into a special iTunes playlist. The software instruments sound absolutely gorgeous. GarageBand is integrated into iLife for US$49, free with new Macs. (!!)
Long-time readers of my columns on O'Grady's PowerPage will recall I've been begging Apple to create an Apple-like tool for the entry level since before the release of iTunes. This is indeed simple and Mac-like, though if you want extensive MIDI you'll probably want to wait for MOTU to release rumored FreeStyle for OS X (which surely inspired GarageBand's trackless design). At this price, even us pros will want to pick it up and add some soft instruments to our arsenal.

Wait, there's more: US$99 Jam Pack adds even more virtual instruments, like a Bosendorfer piano, more amps, and more guitars, and Apple's reselling the fabulous MAudio 49-key USB keyboard for just US$99.

Thanks, Apple! Stay tuned for a closer look at this breaking news.

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