Notion - Detailed Review
Music Tools
Notion - Product Overview
Introduction to Notion Music Software
Notion is a comprehensive music composition and performance software developed by NOTION Music, which was later acquired by PreSonus in 2013 and subsequently by Fender Musical Instruments in 2021.
Primary Function
Notion’s primary function is to facilitate music composition, notation, and performance. It allows users to create, edit, and perform musical scores using various input methods such as a computer keyboard, mouse, MIDI keyboard, MIDI guitar, and even handwriting recognition.
Target Audience
The target audience for Notion includes a wide range of musicians and music professionals. This encompasses composers, music educators, students, and performers across various genres. Notable users include film composers, classical musicians, and even contemporary artists like DJs and beatboxers.
Key Features
- Input Methods: Notion supports multiple input methods, including computer keyboard, mouse, MIDI instruments, and handwriting recognition using McScript technology.
- Notation and Tablature: It handles music notation and tablature, ensuring proper stem direction and alignment of rhythmic values. It also supports synchronized standard music notation and tablature.
- Instrument Library: The software features a high-quality instrument library recorded by the London Symphony Orchestra, along with other instruments like choir, pipe organ, guitar, bass, and drums.
- Audio Effects and Mixer: Notion includes an audio mixer with built-in effects such as equalization, compression, reverb, limiter, and more, providing DAW-level control over the sound.
- Integration with Other Tools: It integrates seamlessly with PreSonus Studio One and other third-party VST effects and sound libraries, enhancing its functionality for music production and performance.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: Notion is available on multiple platforms, including Microsoft Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Fire OS, making it accessible on a variety of devices.
- Live Performance: The software can be used for live performances, allowing real-time interpretation of tempi, articulations, and performance techniques. It also supports video synchronization for composing to picture.
Additional Capabilities
Notion Mobile, a version of the software, is designed for mobile devices and allows users to compose and edit music on the go. It includes a selection of software instruments and is available as a free base version, with additional features available for purchase.
Overall, Notion is a versatile and powerful tool that combines the features of music notation software with those of a digital audio workstation, making it an invaluable resource for musicians and composers.
Notion - User Interface and Experience
User Interface of Presonus Notion
The user interface of Presonus Notion, particularly in its latest version, NOTION 6, is crafted to be intuitive and user-friendly, making it accessible to musicians and composers of all levels.
Interface Design
NOTION 6 features a sleek and modern design that optimizes efficiency. The layout is clean and organized, allowing users to easily access essential tools and functions from the main menu. This refined interface makes it simpler for users to find what they need quickly, enhancing the overall workflow.
Ease of Use
The software is designed to be easy to use, even for those new to music notation software. It includes helpful tutorials and guides to help new users get started. The interface is intuitive, with a streamlined workflow that allows users to enter notes, add articulations and dynamics, and edit their compositions with ease. Users can input notes by selecting the desired note duration from the toolbar or using a MIDI keyboard for real-time input.
Interactive Tools
NOTION 6 and its mobile counterpart, Notion Mobile, offer interactive tools that enhance the composition process. For example, Notion Mobile includes an interactive piano keyboard, fretboard, and drum pad, making it easy to compose music on various devices. The mobile version also features optional Handwriting Recognition, powered by MyScript, which allows users to write notes by hand using an Apple Pencil or other compatible devices.
Cross-Platform Compatibility
One of the significant advantages of NOTION 6 is its cross-platform compatibility. Users can work seamlessly across different operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and iOS. This allows for a consistent user experience regardless of the device being used, enabling users to start work on one device and finish it on another.
Editing and Playback
The editing tools in NOTION 6 are comprehensive, allowing users to refine their compositions with precision. Users can highlight and manipulate individual notes, measures, or entire sections using the selection tool. The software also features quantization options to adjust the timing and rhythm of notes. The playback engine has been improved for enhanced performance and stability, providing smooth playback of compositions even with complex arrangements or large scores.
User Experience
Overall, the user experience with NOTION 6 is positive, with many users finding it easier to use than other notation software. The software adapts well to different workflows and preferences, whether you are a seasoned composer or a beginner. The ability to customize the layout, use various editing tools, and hear realistic playback using high-quality instrument sounds all contribute to a productive and creative experience.
Conclusion
In summary, NOTION 6 offers a user-friendly interface, streamlined workflow, and a range of interactive tools that make it an excellent choice for musicians and composers looking to create and edit musical compositions efficiently and effectively.
Notion - Key Features and Functionality
Music Composition and Notation
Notion allows users to compose music using various input methods, including a computer keyboard, mouse, MIDI keyboard, MIDI guitar, and even handwriting recognition. It supports both standard music notation and tablature, automatically handling aspects like stem direction and rhythmic value alignment.Playback and Performance
The software features a sample playback library recorded by the London Symphony Orchestra at Abbey Road Studios. This library provides realistic playback of composed music, allowing for real-time interpretation of tempi, articulations, and performance techniques. Users can capture playback in various audio formats, such as WAV, MP3, and more, for further use in digital audio workstations or other applications.Audio Mixer and Effects
Notion includes an audio mixer that enables users to set volume levels, perform panning, and add effects like equalization, compression, and reverb. From version 3 onward, it also supports third-party VST effects and sound libraries from providers like Vienna Symphonic Library, EastWest, and Garritan Personal Orchestra.Notion AI for Songwriting
Notion AI is a recent addition that leverages artificial intelligence to assist in the songwriting process. Here are its key features:Co-Writing Assistance
Notion AI acts as a co-writing partner, generating ideas, lyrics, and even entire songs. Users can input prompts and themes, and the AI will suggest content to help overcome creative blocks.Content Suggestions
The AI provides content suggestions to help users generate new ideas and explore different creative directions. This includes developing song concepts and narratives through AI-assisted creative story features.Creative Prompts
Notion AI offers creative prompts to inspire the songwriting process. Users can select and incorporate AI-generated content into their work, making it easier to start or continue writing songs.Accessibility and Integration
Notion AI is accessible within the Notion platform, and users can sign up for access during its Alpha stage. The AI features integrate seamlessly across various devices, ensuring that song ideas and works in progress are always accessible.Benefits for Music Creatives
- Reduced Decision Fatigue: Notion AI helps by providing AI-generated content, alleviating the pressure of starting from scratch.
- Continuous Creativity: The AI ensures that the songwriting process can continue without interruptions, even when a human co-writer is not available.
- Enhanced Collaboration: Notion AI allows musicians to collaborate with an AI partner, which can be particularly useful when working alone or needing quick inspiration.
Cross-Platform Compatibility
Notion and Notion Mobile are available on multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Fire OS. This cross-platform compatibility allows users to compose music anywhere and sync their work across different devices. In summary, Notion combines traditional music composition tools with advanced AI-driven features to enhance the songwriting and music composition process, making it a versatile and powerful tool for music creatives. Notion - Performance and Accuracy
Performance
Notion is praised for its high-quality sounds and VST support, which makes it suitable for performance and playback. The software has a strong performance engine, allowing it to handle pieces ranging from short compositions to those lasting up to 1.5 hours. However, it lacks some advanced features compared to other notation software. For instance, Notion’s MIDI editing capabilities are robust but do not match the level of Finale’s Human Playback System or its support for advanced orchestral libraries like Garritan Personal Orchestra 5.Accuracy and Notation Features
Notion has made significant improvements in its notation capabilities, particularly in recent versions. For example, Notion 5 introduced cross-staff beaming for grand staff instruments, improved arpeggio and glissando symbols, and enhanced chord library features. Despite these improvements, Notion still has some limitations. It struggles with certain advanced notation types, such as historical clefs, mensural time signatures, figured bass, and specific types of slurs (like dashed or dotted slurs). The software also lacks support for partial cue and ossia staves, which can be a hindrance for professional publishing needs.User Interface and Workflow
The user interface of Notion can be somewhat clunky. For instance, users have reported issues with the palette system, where double-clicking on a palette entry does not apply the tool to the current selection, and the slur tool often prefers voice 1 over voice 2, making it difficult to add slurs to multiple voices. Additionally, Notion Mobile, while improved in some aspects, still has its own set of issues. Users have reported problems with tying notes, the placement of the “move to the next note/chord” buttons, and the chord selection box overlapping the music, which can disrupt the composition process.Areas for Improvement
One of the significant areas for improvement is the handling of niche notation types and fine control over score appearance and page layout. Notion lacks features such as soprano clef, historical clefs, and more advanced slur shapes. Another area is the integration and support for newer hardware. For example, there has been a lack of updates to make Notion 6 M1 native and improve MusicXML support, which has been a point of frustration for users.Conclusion
In summary, while Notion offers strong performance and a user-friendly interface for many typical scoring demands, it has several limitations that may make it less suitable for advanced or professional music notation needs. Users looking for more comprehensive features might find themselves considering alternatives like MuseScore, Dorico Elements, or Finale. Notion - Pricing and Plans
Notion Desktop
- Base Version: The base version of Notion, such as Notion 4 or Notion 6, typically costs around $99 for the electronic download version. This includes a full orchestra, as well as other instruments like electric guitar, bass, acoustic guitar, and various percussion and keyboard instruments.
Additional Features and Soundsets
- Expansion Sounds: Users can purchase additional soundsets and expansion sounds to enhance their composition capabilities. These include specific articulations and instruments for different genres, such as jazz. The prices for these additional soundsets vary and can be checked on the Notion Music Store website.
Notion Mobile
Notion Mobile offers a tiered system with different levels of features:
Free Tier
- This tier is completely free and includes unlimited staves, all editing features, and core Soundsets such as real piano and orchestral samples recorded by the London Symphony Orchestra at Abbey Road Studios, as well as guitar, bass, and drums. Users can export their work as MIDI, PDF, WAV, and MP3 files.
Free with Registration
- By registering for free, users can unlock an additional Soundset featuring Solo Strings, Glockenspiel, and Classical Saxophones. They also gain access to the Notion Mobile User Forum and the ability to write for voices 3 and 4 in a single staff. Additionally, they can export files as MusicXML and Compressed MusicXML.
Feature Bundle (Paid Upgrade)
- This tier requires a purchase or a subscription to Studio One . It includes features like Handwriting Recognition, Layout Controls, all Expansion Soundsets, additional audio export formats (m4a, OPUS, FLAC), and direct file transfer between any PreSonus application running on the same network.
Cross-Platform Compatibility
Notion allows seamless transition between Mac, PC, iPhone, iPad, and other devices, enabling users to start work on one device and continue on another.
In summary, the base version of Notion Desktop is a one-time purchase, while Notion Mobile offers a free version with optional upgrades through registration or a paid Feature Bundle.
Notion - Integration and Compatibility
Integration with Other Music Software
NOTION 6 seamlessly integrates with other music software, particularly digital audio workstations (DAWs). This integration enhances your workflow and production capabilities, allowing you to use NOTION 6 in conjunction with DAWs like Digital Performer, Cubase, Ableton Live, and Studio One, among others. This compatibility is crucial for advanced music production tasks, including ReWire and MIDI interactions.
Compatibility with Virtual Instruments and Plugins
The software is highly compatible with a wide range of virtual instruments and plugins. Whether you use built-in sounds or third-party virtual instruments, NOTION 6 provides extensive support, ensuring you can choose the sounds that best suit your musical preferences. This compatibility enhances the software’s flexibility and capabilities.
Cross-Platform Compatibility
NOTION 6 is available on multiple operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and iOS. This cross-platform compatibility allows users to work seamlessly across different devices. You can start a composition on one device and continue working on it on another without any issues, ensuring a consistent user experience regardless of the platform you use.
MIDI Integration
The MIDI integration in NOTION 6 has been significantly improved, enabling seamless communication with external MIDI devices and virtual instruments. This allows for real-time control and recording of MIDI input, enhancing the overall composing and playback experience.
Collaboration Features
NOTION 6 facilitates collaboration by allowing users to share scores and work on projects in real-time. This feature is particularly useful for educators and composers who need to collaborate with others, regardless of their location or the device they are using.
Device-Specific Usage
NOTION 6 is not just limited to desktops; it also has a mobile version, NOTION Mobile, which is available for iOS, iPadOS, macOS, Android, and Windows. This mobile app allows you to compose music anywhere, anytime, using your preferred device. The mobile version retains many of the key features of the desktop version, making it a powerful tool for on-the-go composition.
Conclusion
In summary, Presonus NOTION 6 offers comprehensive integration with other music software, excellent compatibility with virtual instruments and plugins, and seamless cross-platform functionality. These features make it an indispensable tool for musicians and composers who need to work efficiently across different devices and platforms.
Notion - Customer Support and Resources
Customer Support
Support Section
PreSonus provides a dedicated support section on their website, where users can find answers to common questions and issues. This includes a knowledge base, FAQs, and troubleshooting guides.
Direct Contact
Users can also contact PreSonus support directly through their website, where they can submit a support request or access contact information for further assistance.
User Guide
The Notion Mobile User Guide is a comprehensive resource that covers installation, setup, and detailed usage of the software. This guide is available for download and includes step-by-step instructions and tutorials.
Community and Forums
User Forum
Notion users have access to the Notion Mobile User Forum, which they can join after registering their app with PreSonus. This forum allows users to interact with each other, share tips, and get help from the community.
Tutorials and Guides
Learning Resources
PreSonus offers various tutorials and quickstart guides for Notion Mobile. These resources help users get started quickly and make the most out of the software’s features. The guides cover topics such as score setup, note entry, and playback settings.
Updates and Maintenance
App Updates
Notion Mobile updates are handled through the respective app stores (e.g., Apple App Store, Google Play Store). Users can set their apps to automatically update to ensure they have the latest features and fixes.
Additional Resources
Legacy Software Documentation
Notion 6, although now considered legacy software, still has extensive documentation available. This includes detailed information on score editing, playback, collaboration, and integration with other music software like digital audio workstations (DAWs).
In-App Purchases and Membership
For Notion Mobile, users can access additional soundsets and features by making in-app purchases or through a Studio One membership. This membership also includes access to exclusive training videos and community collaboration functions.
By leveraging these resources, users of Notion can find the support they need to effectively use the software and achieve their musical goals.
Notion - Pros and Cons
Advantages
Comprehensive Music Notation
Notion 6 is a thorough music notation software that offers a wide range of features and tools for composing, arranging, and producing music.
High-Quality Playback Engine
The software includes a built-in playback engine with high-quality sounds from various virtual instruments, enhancing the overall audio experience.
User-Friendly Interface
Notion 6 has an intuitive interface that is easy to navigate, making it accessible even for beginners.
Educational Features
The software is excellent for music education and learning, providing valuable tools for educators and students alike.
Cross-Platform Compatibility
Notion 6 works seamlessly across different platforms, allowing users to work on their projects regardless of the operating system they use.
Disadvantages
Customization Limitations
Notion 6 may not be as customizable as some other music notation software, which could be limiting for users seeking advanced features.
Resource Intensive
The software can be resource-intensive, requiring a powerful computer to run smoothly, which might be a challenge for users with less powerful hardware.
Playback Engine Limitations
While the playback engine is of high quality, it may not be as versatile or customizable as other virtual instrument plugins available in the market.
Price Point
The software can be quite expensive, especially for those who are just starting out in music composition or education.
Specific Notation Features
Notion 6 lacks certain advanced notation features compared to competitors like Finale and Dorico, such as the Human Playback System and better support for specific orchestral libraries.
Overall, Notion 6 is a powerful tool for music composition and education, but it has some limitations in terms of customization and advanced features that users should be aware of.
Notion - Comparison with Competitors
Notion’s Unique Features
- Notion, developed by PreSonus, combines traditional music notation software with Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) capabilities. This integration allows users to input notes via a traditional score, handwriting recognition, or using a MIDI instrument.
- It includes a high-quality sample playback library recorded by the London Symphony Orchestra, providing realistic playback of scores.
- Notion supports third-party VST effects and sound libraries, such as those from the Vienna Symphonic Library and EastWest, enhancing its audio production capabilities.
- The software is compatible with multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Fire OS, making it versatile for different workflows.
Alternatives and Competitors
StaffPad
- StaffPad is a notable alternative that focuses on touch and pen input, ideal for composers who prefer handwriting their scores. It offers realistic playback and automatic correction of stem directions and accidentals. StaffPad is highly intuitive and powerful for composition and live performance, but it does not integrate DAW features like Notion.
Mixcraft
- Mixcraft is a DAW that, while not primarily a notation software, offers an intuitive interface and powerful features for recording and mixing tracks. It supports third-party plugins, audio interfaces, and hardware controllers, making it a strong alternative for those who need more DAW-centric functionality but may not require advanced notation features.
PlayScore 2
- PlayScore 2 is not a direct competitor but complements Notion 6 through its Optical Music Recognition technology. It allows users to scan sheet music quickly and accurately, importing it into Notion 6 for further editing and playback. This combination enhances the workflow for those working with existing sheet music.
AI-Driven Music Tools
While Notion is not primarily an AI-driven music generator, there are other tools that focus more on AI-generated music:
Suno AI, Udio, and Riffusion
- These tools generate music using AI, allowing users to input lyrics or descriptions to create songs. Suno AI, Udio, and Riffusion are more geared towards users who want to generate full songs quickly without the need for traditional notation or DAW skills. They offer features like genre fusion and text-to-music generation, which are different from Notion’s focus on notation and DAW integration.
AIVA and Bandlab SongStarter
- AIVA and Bandlab SongStarter use AI to generate music based on user inputs like mood, genre, and tempo. AIVA is known for its deep learning algorithms trained on human compositions, while Bandlab SongStarter is part of a broader music collaboration platform. These tools are more suited for users looking for quick music generation rather than detailed notation and DAW capabilities.
In summary, Notion stands out for its blend of notation and DAW features, making it a powerful tool for musicians and composers who need both detailed notation and advanced audio production capabilities. For those looking for AI-driven music generation or different workflows, alternatives like StaffPad, Mixcraft, and the various AI music generators offer distinct advantages.
Notion - Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about Notion Music Notation Software
Q: What platforms is Notion available on?
Notion is available on a variety of platforms, including Microsoft Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Fire OS. This allows you to work on your music across different devices, whether you’re using a computer, tablet, or smartphone.
Q: How can I input music into Notion?
You can input music into Notion using several methods. These include typing notes using a computer keyboard or mouse, playing notes via a MIDI keyboard or MIDI guitar, importing MIDI files or MusicXML files, or even using handwriting recognition to convert handwritten notes into digital notation.
Q: Can Notion import audio files?
Yes, Notion can import audio files. Specifically, it supports the import of 16-bit, 44.1 kHz WAV files. You can attach these audio files to a staff and even record music to accompany the imported audio, ensuring synchronization.
Q: What kind of instrument sounds does Notion come with?
Notion comes with a comprehensive library of high-quality instrument sounds, including samples recorded by the London Symphony Orchestra at Abbey Road Studios. Other instruments include guitars, electric bass, drum kits, choir samples, and pipe organ samples. You can also expand this library with third-party VST instruments and expansion sounds.
Q: Can I use Notion for live performances?
Yes, Notion can be used for live performances. It allows you to perform scores live, and you can use it as a live instrument. The software includes features like real-time interpretation of tempi, articulations, and performance techniques, and it supports the use of built-in audio effects such as limiter, compressor, and EQ plugins.
Q: How does Notion integrate with other music software?
Notion integrates well with other music software, particularly with PreSonus Studio One. It supports audio and MIDI streaming via ReWire, allowing seamless integration with professional DAWs. You can also import and export files in various formats, including MusicXML, to work with other notation and music apps like Finale and Sibelius.
Q: Can I compose music to video in Notion?
Yes, Notion allows you to compose music to video. It includes a video window where you can import video files in various formats and synchronize your music composition with the video.
Q: How do I export my final scores and audio from Notion?
You can export your final scores and audio from Notion in several formats. You can export audio files as WAV or MP3, and you can also share them directly to SoundCloud. Additionally, you can export scores in MusicXML format to transfer them to other notation software.
Q: Are there any limitations to the instruments included in Notion?
The instruments included in Notion are grouped, and some may be grayed out, indicating they are not active by default. These additional instruments can be activated by purchasing expansion sounds. However, the bundled sounds are optimized for use with Notion and are particularly useful for live performances.
Q: Can I switch between different devices while working on a project in Notion?
Yes, you can seamlessly switch between your Mac, PC, Windows tablet, iPad, or iPhone while working on a project in Notion. This allows you to start a project on one device and continue editing it on another, ensuring flexibility and convenience.
By addressing these common questions, you can get a better grasp of what Notion offers and how it can be integrated into your music composition and performance workflow.