ArrangerKing by Barking Audio transforms loops into complete tracks, helping users overcome the limitations of the typical 8-bar loop. Its integration with DAWs like Ableton Live and Logic Pro ensures a smooth workflow. With built-in arrangement templates and non-destructive editing, it streamlines the process of arranging and refining tracks, making it easier and faster to develop your musical ideas. The live arranging capabilities are particularly useful for those working with modular synths, as they allow for real-time adjustments and seamless integration of complex setups, making the creative process more fluid and responsive. A clear interface and visual maps help maintain your song structure, providing an organized view of the entire project and helping you focus on creative details. Priced at $54, or $21.60 with a promo code, it offers good value for producers at all levels.
Key Features and Benefits
ArrangerKing by Barking Audio provides features that cater to both novice and experienced musicians.
This plugin transforms loops into complete tracks with minimal effort, addressing the common 8-bar syndrome. Using built-in arrangement templates, you can quickly craft songs across various genres, especially electronic music. The drag-and-drop guides for MIDI and audio streamline this process, allowing you to stay focused on creativity without getting bogged down in technicalities.
The non-destructive editing feature provides a clear overview of your project. You can rearrange and tweak compositions without losing the original idea. This flexibility enhances your workflow and encourages experimentation, allowing you to test out different versions of a track without worrying about permanently altering your work.
Live arranging capabilities allow you to integrate modular synths and acoustic instruments in real-time, which is ideal for innovative producers looking to blend electronic and traditional elements. This real-time flexibility makes it easy to adjust your arrangements on the fly, accommodating spontaneous creative impulses during a session.
ArrangerKing also promotes community collaboration by allowing you to import and export arrangements in popular formats like MIDI and project files, making it easy to share and adapt ideas across different DAWs and platforms. This feature is particularly useful for collaborative projects, where producers may be working remotely and need to share detailed arrangement data.
Compatibility and Formats
ArrangerKing works seamlessly with a variety of music production environments. Supporting both Windows and macOS, it is compatible with major DAWs like Ableton Live, Cubase, FL Studio, Logic Pro, Pro Tools, Maschine, Reaper, Studio One, Bitwig Studio, and Nuendo. This flexibility ensures that it fits into your setup without disruption, regardless of the DAW you prefer.
ArrangerKing supports OSX VST3 & AU formats and Windows VST3 formats. For Pro Tools users, a VST to AAX wrapper is required. This adaptability makes it suitable for diverse production environments, providing a consistent experience across different setups and allowing you to focus on your creativity rather than technical compatibility.
Overcoming Creative Blocks
Creative blocks can be a significant barrier in music production, often stalling progress and leading to frustration. ArrangerKing addresses the “8-bar syndrome” by providing a visual map of arrangements, helping you maintain song structure as you expand your tracks. The visual map serves as a guide, making it easier to see where your track is heading and how different sections connect.
By focusing on essential elements, ArrangerKing minimizes ear fatigue and reduces the overwhelming audio feedback and clutter that often occur in DAWs, making it easier to concentrate on creative decisions. This simplification allows you to spend more time focusing on the musicality of your track rather than being overwhelmed by too many options or unnecessary technical distractions.
Its intuitive interface and built-in arrangement templates offer a streamlined creative process, allowing you to experiment with sounds and explore arrangement techniques without stress. This approach encourages a continuous flow of ideas, making it easier to overcome creative blocks and maintain momentum throughout the production process.
In addition, the drag-and-drop guides for arranging different sections of a song make it simple to try new structures and see what works best. This ability to easily rearrange elements can provide fresh perspectives on tracks that may have otherwise felt stagnant, helping to reignite creativity.
Pricing and Availability
ArrangerKing by Barking Audio is priced at $54, plus VAT for EU and UK customers. The promotional offer allows you to purchase it for $21.60 using the discount code PROMOWEEK, making it accessible to a wide range of music producers.
For those hesitant to commit immediately, a free unlicensed version is available to explore ArrangerKing’s full functionality. This trial allows potential buyers to integrate the plugin within their DAWs to ensure compatibility and workflow enhancement. The demo version is a great way to experience the benefits firsthand without making an upfront financial commitment.
However, note that the introductory price does not include VAT for EU and UK customers, which could increase costs. Despite this, the pricing remains competitive, especially given the range of features that ArrangerKing offers to enhance workflow and creativity.