The Sonar user manual is mostly a reference guide, other than a few tutorials, which are highly recommended for new users. Also a chapter on basic editing, and one on advanced editing. It has a chapter on soft synths, and two chapters on effects. I have owned several versions of that, including the latest X3 version, and it is always a nice alternative to have for some how-to instructions or a refresher on a rarely used topic. Block quotes doesn't seem to work for this site now.+ 1 to the Sonar Power series. From BandLab Assistant’s “Apps” tab, you’ll be able to install Cakewalk by BandLab and related demo content & instrument packs. Get BandLab Assistant here and install it. 1) When your download is complete, click on the installer 2) Install the BandLab Assistant desktop app 3) Signup or login to your BandLab account (I created one) The other one seems to indicate that you should install the Assistant first, then download Bandlab from its app: How do I download Cakewalk by BandLab? Cakewalk by BandLab is only available in Early Access for Windows, via BandLab Assistant. Yes I have the system requirements and plenty of room on the HD. I let it try for an hour or so while I did other things - no dice.

There is no progress bar, estimated download time, or any other indication that it is downloading. It says 'Almost ready' but does not seem to be downloading at all.

The first prompts you to install Bandlab, then install the assistant desktop app. There are two contradictory sets of instructions on the Bandlab site, neither of which seems to work.

Due to constant crashing od Sonar X3, and now its failure to recognize plugins, I finally decided to install Bandlab.

Cakewalk by bandlab manual install