In today's world, hit-quality recordings require more than just excellent instrumental or vocal tracks. Simply having great material isn't enough -- to create truly compelling audio, you need to understand and use the newest technologies to take your music to the next level. MIDI, an integral part of music production in the 1980s, remains a critical component of the recording process. Modern producers combine MIDI sequencing, sample and loop technologies, and high-resolution audio tracks to create dynamic, authentic, and powerful recordings. With this guide, you'll learn how to harness the potential of your studio's computer, hardware and software samplers, and other related technologies to create amazing productions. From the history and basics of samplers and MIDI, to the construction and musical use of loops, this guide will help you learn how to produce unique, compelling music that sounds great. In addition, the accompanying DVD is filled with excellent instructional demonstrations that enhance the concepts in the book. Whether you work your way through all the S.M.A.R.T. Guides or simply focus on this guide to samples, loops, and MIDI, you're on the right track to improving your artistic and technical skills, refining your production techniques, and keeping a competitive edge in today's music and audio industry.