2. Getting Started

The StikAx package comes with the TrakAx software, a bonus pack CD of pre-made audio loops, and ten low resolution music videos cut into 10 smaller clips each. The StikAx itself is a quasi-futuristic looking USB device with ten buttons, a gimmicky light sensitive sensor, and a red LED.

The construction is sturdy enough, although holding the StikAx takes a little getting used to. The assignable buttons trigger the start and stop of either audio samples or video clips. In addition, the buttons can be assigned to activate included audio effects, such as echo, reverb, parametric EQ, flanger, chorus, compressor, and something called Gargle (which sounds like frequency modulation synthesis).

After installing the TrakAx software - Windows XP only - I was greeted by a happy leprechaun voice. It took me through all the StikAx's basics via a series of Flash tutorials. Although it took me a minute to become acquainted with the TrakAx software, the videos were very helpful.

Remixes are created by loading audio or video clips onto each button. Then you jam, while the Media Log captures your every move in real time. The final step is editing and mixing your performance into a song or music video. We'd like to point out that this program is not intended to be used for actual music composition; it is more geared toward making songs by combining loops.

My introduction completed, I decided to give this baby a test drive.