Course Technology PTR's Sonar 8 Power!

In Sonar 8 Power! ($49.99) from Course Technology PTR (courseptr.com), author Scott Garrigus delivers his eighth tutorial and reference guide to the Studio and Producer editions of Cakewalk's digital audio workstation, Sonar. Whether you're just getting started or are a seasoned Sonar user, the book promises to take you to the power-user level. Topics include commands and layout, recording and editing, working with loops, scoring, mixing, and CD mastering. You'll also find complete coverage of Sonar's complement of virtual instrument and effects plug-ins.

Hal Leonard Publishing's Succeeding in Music

Succeeding in Music, 2nd ed. ($24.95), from Hal Leonard Publishing (halleonard.com), covers the fundamentals of the business, finance, and marketing of music. Author John Stiernberg packs this in-depth presentation to musicians and musical entrepreneurs with insights from his years in the entertainment industry. The book takes a strategic approach to product planning, development, and pricing. You'll discover tips on competitive survival and ways to avoid failure. The book also comes with a CD-ROM that contains checklists, resources, and planning templates.

St. Martin's Press's On the Record

If DJs are today's rock stars, On the Record: The Scratch DJ Academy Guide ($16.95) is the rock star's bible. St. Martin's Press (us.macmillan.com/ontherecord) brings together Scratch DJ Academy cofounder Rob Principe, writer Phil White, and deputy editor of Nylon magazine Luke Crisell to give you an inside look at the DJ world. Starting with what to listen for, the book goes on to tell you how to acquire the necessary tools and polish your performance. Along the way, you get insights into the DJ lifestyle and culture through biography, interview, and anecdote.