Well, I’m not sure I understand completely what you intend to do with the iPad, but I’ll let you know what I do and what I think is possible. On the few songs that I’ve used the iPad for, I am basically just using it as an instrument. Using downloaded apps, I play music on the iPad and record them into garageband using the line in on my computer. If you have Ableton, you can also use that to record the sounds you make on your iPad.

To use it as a stand-alone “system,” you can record and mix songs using the iPad with a few apps, but this is a very basic function and you have to use the iPad’s build in mic or the Apple headphones/mic. You can then use it like a stripped down Garageband or Ableton or whatever, but it is much more limited. You can record other instruments or vocals, but you wouldn’t be able to record sounds from the iPad itself.

There are a couple of apps that let you record and export songs, but they are more like sequencers. Basically, I would not try to replace Ableton (or Garageband) with the iPad for music making, but use them together.

Hope I answered your question. Feel free to email me if you have any other questions or need clarification. ben [at] cutthenoise [dot] com

I am looking for a standalone iPad-only music “system”. I have ableton at home on a PC and am not going to buy a Mac computer as well as the iPad — ONLY the ipad. Any help appreciated!

you have a great musical sense —– good luck with your songs!

Anyway, if this is the sort of stuff you’ve been making, then you can be assured that you won’t need to worry about getting the sorta praise you get from friends who want to be supportive but don’t really like whatever it is you’re working on. I honestly like this and think it sounds great and promising. You should definitely keep it up.