I remember my favorite hybrid setup. It was a labyrinth of cables, but the sound was worth it. 👇

I had FL Studio acting as the master sync. Connected to it via MIDI were two hardware icons: An Akai MPC 1000 and the 12-bit powerhouse, the MPC 60.

The workflow was specific:

🔹 MPC 1000: Handled the top end (Hi-hats, percussion).
🔹 MPC 60: Handled the low end. That 12-bit crunch gave the kicks and snares a punch that software couldn't replicate.
🔹 FL Studio: Sent the MIDI notes to trigger them, while running synths and bass on top.

When I pressed "Play" in FL, the whole machine came alive.

When the core idea was ready, I recorded the audio back into my DAW. This produced a unique sound and was well worth the process.

The computer provided the Data (MIDI), but the hardware provided the Texture.

This is exactly why Songen is built around MIDI.

MIDI has always been the bridge. It connects the idea to the sound.

Songen generates that essential MIDI foundation. You can still send it to your vintage MPC 60 for the grit, or to a modern VST for clarity.

The tools evolve. The language remains the same.