After listening to the first 3 episodes of our Audio series (which we know you have!), you have lots of ideas of how to obtain and listen to digital music…but maybe you are inspired to create your own? In the final deep-dive into the Audio series, the Brothers discuss what you need to enter the world of digital music creation. Although there is admittedly not a lot of musical talent between them (unless you count playing power chords or making mix tapes), Alan certainly seems to know what he is talking about. Brian is just along for the ride…

In addition, the “BiTS” (Brothers in Tech Suggestions):

• Brian’s Pick = CDM (Create Digital Music): A great web resource for all of your music creation needs. Reviews of products, apps, and techniques (free website).
• Alan’s Pick = Focusrite Scarlett Solo: A great introductory USB audio interface. XLR (mic) and ¼” (line instrument) audio inputs ($110).

Have any feedback for the Brothers regarding this topic (or future topics)? Email info@themesh.tv.

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Alan Jackson:
 Alan Jackson (the older brother) lives in works in Hickory, North Carolina as the Strategic Director of Jackson Creative and Jackson Insight.  Alan specializes in creating marketing campaigns and resources for a variety of clients as well as consulting on marketing research and satisfaction surveys.  In his free time, Alan runs a film society and annual film festival in Western North Carolina.  Alan started his technology journey at a young age, learning to program in BASIC on an Apple IIE and being one of the first people in his area to use and master the original Macintosh.  He earned extra lunch money by drawing pictures of superheroes in MacPaint and selling printouts to friends for a quarter each, officially earning him the title of the nerdiest kid at school.  Alan has always enjoyed learning new technologies and helping others incorporate tech into their everyday home and work lives.  Oh, and he is definitely the favorite child… no matter what his siblings suggest.

Brian Jackson:
 Originally from Hickory, North Carolina, Brian Jackson (the younger Brother) currently lives just outside of Portland, Oregon where he works a professor of Kinesiology at Pacific University. Academically, he is a “motor behaviorist” (studying motor skill learning and performance) who has used his passion for technology to research the use and effectiveness of a number of fitness and learning devices. He is a former coach (tennis), craft beer connoisseur (well…at least a consumer and admirer), and competitive dart player (yes…darts). Although admittedly deeply connected/invested in the Apple ecosystem, Brian enjoys finding, researching, and critiquing all types of new and creative technology solutions…and consulting others on educational and home technology practices (including trying to correct any mistakes that Alan has made with family advice). Oh, and he is definitely the favorite child…no matter what his siblings suggest.