Hip Hop Ejay 5 Reloaded Serial Number ((top)) May 2026
The serial number for Hip Hop Ejay 5 Reloaded can usually be found in the software's documentation or on the manufacturer's website. You may also want to check the software's installation package or the email receipt if you purchased it online.
Here are some possible ways to find the serial number:
- Check the software's documentation or user manual.
- Look for the serial number on the manufacturer's website or support page.
- Check the email receipt or confirmation email if you purchased the software online.
- Contact the manufacturer's customer support for assistance.
If you're unable to find the serial number, you may want to try resetting the software or reinstalling it. However, be sure to check with the manufacturer for specific instructions and guidance.
Would you like more information on music production software or Hip Hop Ejay 5 Reloaded specifically?
Text Files and Pastebins
You might find text files on Pastebin or forum threads from 2012 listing dozens of serial numbers, such as:
E5R-XXXXXXXXXX-XXXXHIPHOP5-XXXXX-XXXXXEJY5RL-XXXX-XXXX
The brutal truth: These numbers almost never work. Why? Because Hip Hop Ejay 5 Reloaded used an offline, algorithmic validation system. If a serial number was invalid, it didn’t just fail—it locked you out for 24 hours in many versions. The valid numbers that did exist were unique to each CD-ROM copy. A serial from a German retail disc won’t work on a US downloaded ISO.
2. The Abandonware Dilemma
The parent company, Properties USA (formerly Ekely), no longer supports or sells Hip Hop Ejay 5 Reloaded. The official registration servers have been offline for over a decade. This creates a legal grey area known as abandonware—software that is technically copyrighted but no longer sold or activated by the publisher. Many users mistakenly believe that because the company is gone, the serial numbers should be “freeware.” This is legally false, but it fuels the search.
Essay — "Hip Hop EJay 5 Reloaded Serial Number": Digital Culture, Ownership, and Nostalgia
Hip Hop EJay 5 Reloaded occupies a specific niche in the history of consumer music production software: a user-friendly loop-based beatmaker aimed at novices and hobbyists. Originally part of the eJay series, these programs lowered the barrier to music creation by providing pre-made samples, simple drag-and-drop arrangement, and genre-focused interfaces. Discussing the phrase "Hip Hop EJay 5 Reloaded Serial Number" brings together several overlapping themes: software distribution and licensing, piracy and serial-number culture, the ethics and economics of user-generated music tools, and the nostalgia-driven resurgence of early-2000s creative tech.
Software licensing and serial numbers were a primary mechanism for software vendors to enforce paid use before robust online activation systems. Serial numbers ostensibly balanced the need to monetize development with consumer access, but they were also a common target for sharing and circumvention. For a program like Hip Hop EJay 5 Reloaded — which appealed to casual users and aspiring producers rather than professionals — the temptation to seek a free serial number was high. This dynamic highlights a tension: the perceived value of easy-to-use creative tools versus users’ willingness to pay for them, especially when alternative free tools or cracked copies circulate.
Piracy in this context is not merely a matter of economics; it shaped communities. File-sharing forums, warez sites, and peer-to-peer networks became informal distribution channels where novice producers discovered tools and samples. While illegal, these channels also fostered creative exchange, tutorials, and a DIY ethos. That said, piracy undercuts revenue streams that sustain updates, sample libraries, and technical support, disproportionately affecting small developers and niche software—making the serial-number chase a morally and economically fraught topic.
Another dimension is the legal and ethical implications of sample-based software. Hip Hop EJay’s libraries included loops and sounds licensed for user composition, but once programs are copied and distributed without payment, provenance becomes murkier. Users who acquire cracked copies may be unaware of licensing limits; remixing, sharing, or monetizing tracks created with such tools can carry hidden legal risks. The “serial number” episode therefore intersects with questions of authorship and the legitimacy of creative output produced on non-licensed platforms.
Culturally, there’s nostalgia for the aesthetics and constraints of early loop-based production. Hip Hop EJay 5 Reloaded, with its dated UI and limited but characterful sound sets, now represents a particular sonic era. Contemporary musicians and internet communities sometimes embrace these older tools for their distinctive artifacts—gritty loops, imperfect tempos, and the playful limitations that can spur creativity. This retro interest reframes the conversation about serial numbers: collectors and hobbyists may seek old installers and keys to preserve or revive software for archival, educational, or artistic reasons rather than to pirate ongoing commercial value.
Finally, the phrase prompts reflection on how digital distribution evolved. Modern software typically uses online activation, cloud-based libraries, subscriptions, and tied accounts, reducing the usefulness of a standalone serial number. The transition mirrors larger shifts in cultural consumption—away from owning discrete tools toward ongoing access models—raising questions about long-term preservation of creative environments that once lived on local machines.
In sum, "Hip Hop EJay 5 Reloaded Serial Number" is a compact entry point into debates about software access, the social life of cracked serials, the ethics of digital creation, and the nostalgia that rescues obsolete creative tools from oblivion. It foregrounds how technical details (a serial number) encode wider social and economic choices about who gets to make music and how creative ecosystems are sustained.
(If you want, I can expand this into a longer essay, add citations, or focus more on legal, cultural, or technical aspects.)
Software Report: Hip Hop Ejay 5 Reloaded
Introduction
Hip Hop Ejay 5 Reloaded is a music production software that allows users to create and edit hip-hop music tracks. The software is designed for music producers, DJs, and enthusiasts who want to create professional-sounding tracks.
Serial Number Information
The serial number for Hip Hop Ejay 5 Reloaded is a unique code required to activate and register the software. The serial number is usually provided by the software developer or vendor and is used to verify the authenticity of the software.
Report
Unfortunately, I couldn't find any publicly available information on a valid serial number for Hip Hop Ejay 5 Reloaded. Serial numbers are typically confidential and only shared with authorized users who have purchased the software.
However, I can provide some general information about the software:
- Software Version: Hip Hop Ejay 5 Reloaded
- Software Type: Music Production Software
- Features: Music editing, sampling, beat-making, and effects processing
- System Requirements: Windows operating system, 2 GB RAM, 2 GHz processor
Recommendations
If you are looking for a valid serial number for Hip Hop Ejay 5 Reloaded, I recommend:
- Purchasing the software: Buy the software from an authorized vendor or the official website to obtain a legitimate serial number.
- Contacting the developer: Reach out to the software developer's support team to inquire about a valid serial number.
Conclusion
Hip Hop Ejay 5 Reloaded is a music production software that requires a valid serial number for activation and registration. While I couldn't provide a publicly available serial number, I recommend purchasing the software or contacting the developer for a legitimate serial number. Using unauthorized or pirated software can lead to security risks, poor performance, and potential legal issues.
Disclaimer
This report is for informational purposes only and does not provide or promote any unauthorized or pirated software. The use of pirated software is against the law and can lead to severe consequences. Always purchase software from authorized vendors to ensure a safe and legitimate experience.
When purchasing Hip Hop eJay 5 Reloaded , the serial number (also referred to as a license or activation code) is a unique identifier required to register and unlock the full version of the software. How to Obtain a Legitimate Serial Number Direct Purchase : Upon buying the software from the official eJay Shop or authorized retailers like Blitzhandel24
, the serial number is typically displayed on the order confirmation webpage and sent via email. Retail Packaging
: If you purchased a physical copy, the serial number is usually found on a sticker on the packaging box, the manual, or the warranty card. Activation Limits
: Standard licenses for eJay products often allow for installation on one PC with up to three separate activations
. If you exceed this and need more, you must contact eJay support to request an increase. Troubleshooting Serial Number Issues Missing Emails
: If you haven't received your code after purchase, check your spam folder. If it's still missing, use the "Resend My Activation Code" button on the eJay FAQ page Internet Requirement
: An active internet connection is mandatory for the registration process of Hip Hop eJay 5 Reloaded.
: For digital purchases, serial numbers can often be retrieved by logging into the "License" tab on the official Download Center or ESD site where you originally acquired the software. Usage and Restrictions According to standard eJay licensing terms:
: The license grants a lifetime runtime for the specific version purchased. Prohibitions Hip Hop Ejay 5 Reloaded Serial Number
: Users are prohibited from distributing, selling, or reverse-engineering the software. Sharing serial numbers or user accounts with third parties is a violation of the license agreement. Are you having trouble locating your existing code or are you looking to buy a new license eJay Frequently Asked Questions.
Hip Hop Ejay 5 Reloaded Serial Number Guide
Introduction
Hip Hop Ejay 5 Reloaded is a popular music production software used by DJs and music producers. To unlock its full features, a serial number is required. In this guide, we will walk you through the process of finding and using a valid serial number for Hip Hop Ejay 5 Reloaded.
Finding a Valid Serial Number
- Purchase the Software: The most straightforward way to obtain a serial number is by purchasing the software from an authorized retailer or the official website. You will receive a unique serial number with your purchase.
- Check Your Email: If you have purchased the software online, check your email for a confirmation message with the serial number.
- Contact Customer Support: Reach out to the software developer's customer support team and provide proof of purchase. They may provide you with a valid serial number.
Entering the Serial Number
- Launch Hip Hop Ejay 5 Reloaded: Open the software on your computer.
- Click on "Help": Navigate to the "Help" menu and select "About Hip Hop Ejay 5 Reloaded".
- Enter Serial Number: Click on the "Register" button and enter your serial number in the provided field.
- Activate the Software: Click "OK" to activate the software and unlock its full features.
Troubleshooting Tips
- Ensure you have entered the serial number correctly, paying attention to any hyphens or special characters.
- If the serial number is not working, contact customer support for assistance.
- Do not use cracked or pirated versions of the software, as they may not be stable or secure.
Conclusion
Obtaining a valid serial number for Hip Hop Ejay 5 Reloaded is essential to unlock its full features. By following this guide, you should be able to find and enter a valid serial number. Remember to always purchase software from authorized retailers and follow proper registration procedures to avoid any issues.
Additional Resources
- Official Hip Hop Ejay 5 Reloaded website: [insert website URL]
- Customer support contact: [insert contact information]
Disclaimer
This guide is for educational purposes only. We do not condone or promote piracy or the use of cracked software.
The search for a Hip Hop Ejay 5 Reloaded serial number is a common journey for music producers looking to revisit this classic piece of software. Originally released in the early 2000s and later updated as a "Reloaded" version, this digital audio workstation (DAW) remains a favorite for its ease of use and iconic sound library.
However, obtaining a functional license key in the modern era can be tricky. This article explores the history of the software, how the licensing works, and the safest ways to get your studio up and running. 🎧 What is Hip Hop Ejay 5 Reloaded?
Hip Hop Ejay 5 Reloaded is a loop-based music creation tool designed specifically for hip-hop enthusiasts. Unlike complex professional DAWs like Ableton or Logic, Ejay focuses on an intuitive "drag-and-drop" interface. Key Features 48-Track Mixer: Plenty of space for complex arrangements.
5,000+ Loops: High-quality samples including Rap, R&B, and Old School.
Built-in Tools: Includes a Drum Machine, Bass Synth, and FX Studio.
Vocoder: A signature tool for creating robotic vocal effects. 🔑 Understanding the Serial Number Requirement
When you install Hip Hop Ejay 5 Reloaded, the program prompts you for a unique serial number (often formatted as a string of alphanumeric characters). This key is used to verify that the software was legally purchased. Where to Find Your Original Key
Retail Box: Look for a sticker on the back of the CD sleeve or the inside cover of the manual.
Confirmation Email: If you purchased a digital download from the official Ejay website, the key was sent to your registered email.
Registry Files: If the software was previously installed on an old computer, the key may be stored in the Windows Registry. ⚠️ The Risks of Using "Keygens" or "Cracks"
Many users turn to "Keygen" (key generator) software or "crack" files found on third-party sites. While tempting, these pose significant risks:
Malware & Viruses: Most "serial number generators" are wrappers for trojans and ransomware.
Software Instability: Cracked versions often crash during the export process, leading to lost work.
Legal Issues: Distributing or using pirated serial numbers violates copyright laws and EULAs. 🛠️ How to Get a Legitimate Serial Number Today
Since the original developers have gone through various transitions, finding a valid key can feel like a scavenger hunt. Here are the most reliable methods: 1. Purchase from Official Sources
The Ejay brand is currently managed by eJay-Shop. You can often find the "Reloaded" versions of their classic software for a very low price. Buying a new license ensures: A guaranteed working serial number. Access to official updates and patches. Peace of mind regarding system security. 2. Contact Support
If you previously bought the software but lost your code, try reaching out to the current eJay support team with your original purchase details. They may be able to reissue a key. 3. Second-Hand Markets
Sites like eBay often list physical "Big Box" versions of Ejay software. Ensure the listing confirms the serial number is included and has not been previously registered to an online account that cannot be transferred. 🚀 Compatibility in 2024 and Beyond
Even with a valid serial number, running Hip Hop Ejay 5 Reloaded on Windows 10 or 11 can be challenging because the software was built for older architecture.
Compatibility Mode: Right-click the .exe file, go to Properties, and set it to run for Windows XP (Service Pack 3).
Administrator Rights: Always run the program as an administrator to ensure it can "read" the serial number validation.
DirectX: You may need to install "Legacy Components" in Windows Features to support the older graphical interface.
If you are struggling with a specific installation error or want to know if this software will work with your current MIDI controller, I can help you troubleshoot.
The primary way to obtain a valid serial number or activation code for eJay Hip Hop 5 Reloaded
is to purchase the software through the Official eJay Shop or authorized retailers like Blitzhandel24. Software Access and Licensing The serial number for Hip Hop Ejay 5
Purchase: You can buy the digital version for approximately $19.99 at the eJay Store.
Activation Process: Upon purchase, an activation code is sent to your registered email address.
Compatibility: The "Reloaded" version is specifically updated to support Windows 7, 8, 10, and 11.
Trial Version: A free trial is often available on the eJay website to test the software before buying. Why Public Serial Numbers Are Not Recommended
Using a serial number found on public forums or third-party "crack" sites is discouraged for several reasons:
Security Risks: Many sites offering "free" keys bundle downloads with malware or spyware that can compromise your PC.
Activation Failure: Modern versions of eJay software typically require an internet connection to verify the code against the manufacturer's server.
Support and Updates: Only verified owners receive customer support for installation issues or access to official sound library updates. Features of Hip Hop 5 Reloaded
If you are writing about the impact or utility of this software, consider these key specifications:
Hip Hop Ejay 5 Reloaded Serial Number: A Comprehensive Overview
Hip Hop Ejay 5 Reloaded is a popular music production software that has been widely used by music producers and enthusiasts alike. The software offers a range of features and tools that enable users to create, record, and edit music tracks. However, to access the full range of features and functionalities, users need to enter a valid serial number.
What is a Serial Number?
A serial number is a unique code that is assigned to a software product to identify it and prevent unauthorized use. In the case of Hip Hop Ejay 5 Reloaded, the serial number is required to activate the software and access all its features.
Why Do You Need a Serial Number for Hip Hop Ejay 5 Reloaded?
Having a valid serial number for Hip Hop Ejay 5 Reloaded offers several benefits, including:
- Full access to features: With a valid serial number, you can access all the features and tools offered by the software, including the ability to save and export your projects.
- No limitations: Without a serial number, the software may have limitations, such as not being able to save your work or export it to external devices.
- Support and updates: Having a valid serial number also ensures that you receive support and updates from the software developers, which can help to resolve any issues you may encounter.
How to Find Your Hip Hop Ejay 5 Reloaded Serial Number
If you have purchased Hip Hop Ejay 5 Reloaded, you can find your serial number in the following ways:
- Check your email: If you purchased the software online, your serial number may have been sent to you via email.
- Check your software packaging: If you purchased a physical copy of the software, your serial number may be printed on the packaging or on a sticker on the CD.
- Check your user account: If you purchased the software from a online store, you may be able to find your serial number in your user account.
What to Do If You Lost Your Serial Number
If you have lost your serial number, there are a few options you can try:
- Contact the software developer: You can try contacting the software developer directly to see if they can provide you with a replacement serial number.
- Check online marketplaces: If you purchased the software from an online marketplace, you may be able to find your serial number in your purchase history.
- Consider purchasing a new copy: If you are unable to recover your serial number, you may need to purchase a new copy of the software.
Conclusion
In conclusion, having a valid serial number for Hip Hop Ejay 5 Reloaded is essential to access the full range of features and functionalities offered by the software. If you have lost your serial number, there are a few options you can try to recover it. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can ensure that you can continue to use Hip Hop Ejay 5 Reloaded to create and produce high-quality music tracks.
The fluorescent screen of the old CRT monitor bathed Marcus’s basement bedroom in a ghostly blue light. Outside, a thunderstorm was battering the windows, the perfect noir backdrop for a digital heist that had been going on for three weeks.
Marcus stared at the dialog box. It was the final boss of his childhood: Hip Hop Ejay 5 Reloaded.
He had found the software in a dusty jewel case at a thrift store two towns over. It was a relic from the early 2000s, the golden age of bedroom producers—a time when drag-and-drop loops were the closest a kid with no musical training could get to Dr. Dre. He remembered the demo version from his middle school computer lab. He remembered the limited sample kits, the grayed-out "Save" button, and the sheer envy he felt toward the kids who had the full version.
Now, finally, he held the disc. But the cardboard sleeve was empty. No manual. No sticker. Just a scratched silver disc and a penciled note on the back of a receipt that read "Good luck, it's tricky."
He clicked the icon. The program launched, that familiar, gritty early-2000s interface loading up. The 8-track mixer, the FX board, the endless library of vinyl scratches and boom-bap drum loops. He dragged a heavy bassline onto the timeline. Thud. Thud. Thud.
Then, the interruption. The "Trial Limit" window. He had ten minutes left before the program locked him out. He needed a serial number.
For three weeks, Marcus had been diving into the underbelly of the internet. He had visited "warez" sites that looked like they hadn't been updated since Windows XP. He had downloaded keygens that triggered his antivirus like a car alarm in a library. He had generated hundreds of codes.
HHEJ5-8842-RELO-ADED-0000 – Invalid.
HIPHOP-MASTER-2003-VIP – Invalid.
12345-ABCDE-12345-ABCDE – Invalid.
He rubbed his temples. He wasn't trying to steal software to sell it; he wasn't a pirate. He was an archivist. He just wanted to hear the full 16-bar loop of the "Underground Soul" sample without that annoying beeping noise the demo made.
His phone buzzed on the desk. It was a message from an old forum user named DJKutCreator99.
“Found it. It’s not a keygen. It’s a logic puzzle. Check your email.”
Marcus’s heart hammered. He opened the attachment. It wasn’t a program. It was a scanned image of a torn piece of paper—a page from the original manual. But the serial number wasn't printed clearly. It was handwritten, scrawled in fading blue ink, and half of it was obscured by a coffee ring stain.
He zoomed in. The prefix was clear: HHEJ5-R.
The rest was a smudge. He looked at the rest of the image. There was a handwritten note next to the code: "The serial is the tempo of the first track on side B of the tutorial CD."
Marcus froze. He scrambled through the pile of junk on his desk. The tutorial CD! He hadn't even looked at it; he’d just inserted the main install disc. He popped the tutorial disc into his CD drive and opened the audio player.
He skipped to Track 1. Silence. Track 2. It was a spoken word guide. "Welcome to Hip Hop Ejay 5. Let's start with the basics..." Check the software's documentation or user manual
The track was a mix of instructions and background beats. He needed
: Known for its drag-and-drop "arranger" interface, making it an excellent starter tool for learning basic song composition. Sound Library : Comes with 10,000 license-free sounds covering styles like Rap, R&B, Ragga, Funk, and Old School. Key Features : Includes a 48-track stereo mixer, a Scratch Creator for DJ effects, a Rap 'n' Record
feature for direct vocal recording, and five virtual instruments like the "Mophonix Supabass". Serial Number & Activation Issues
The most critical aspect for modern users is the software’s strict licensing system: Installation Limits : A single license is typically restricted to three possible installations
. If you exceed this, you must contact support to reset or increase your limit. Activation Process
: Users have reported that after entering the initial serial number from the packaging or email, a secondary "activation key" is often sent via email. Support Delays
: Some users have noted significant delays (up to two weeks) in receiving activation keys from the manufacturer after purchase. Modern Compatibility
: While the "Reloaded" version aims for better compatibility, some users still report issues running the software on modern Windows versions without emulators. Recommendation
If you are looking for a nostalgic beat-making experience or a simple entry point into music production, eJay Hip Hop 5 Reloaded
is a solid choice. However, it is highly recommended to purchase from the official eJay Shop or authorized partners like Blitzhandel24
to ensure you receive a valid, legal serial number and access to support if activation fails. blitzhandel24.com troubleshoot specific installation errors for this software? eJay HipHop 5 reloaded - Blitzhandel24
This article provides an overview of the legacy of Hip Hop eJay 5 Reloaded, the challenges regarding its serial numbers and installation, and how modern creators can still utilize this classic beat-making software.
Hip Hop eJay 5 Reloaded: Reviving a Classic and Navigating Serial Number Issues
In the early 2000s, the eJay series revolutionized the way amateur musicians and hobbyists approached music production. Specifically, Hip Hop eJay 5 Reloaded became a cult favorite for its "building block" approach to beat-making. Unlike complex Professional Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs), eJay allowed users to drag and drop high-quality samples into a timeline, making the creation of rap instrumentals accessible to everyone.
However, as software ages and companies evolve, users trying to reinstall this nostalgic gem often run into a significant roadblock: the Hip Hop eJay 5 Reloaded serial number. The Appeal of Hip Hop eJay 5 Reloaded
Even in an era of advanced production software like FL Studio or Ableton, Hip Hop eJay 5 Reloaded holds a special place in the hearts of many creators. Its primary draws include:
Massive Sample Library: Over 5,000 royalty-free professional samples.
The FX Studio: An intuitive interface for adding reverb, delay, and filters to individual tracks.
The Groove Generator: A built-in drum machine for creating custom loops.
Ease of Use: A visual interface that requires zero knowledge of music theory. The Challenge: Losing Your Serial Number
When you purchase a digital copy or find an old physical disc of Hip Hop eJay 5 Reloaded, the serial number (or license key) is your gateway to the software. Without this unique code, the program typically remains in a "Demo Mode," preventing you from saving your projects or exporting your finished tracks.
Common reasons users find themselves searching for a serial number include:
Lost Packaging: The sticker with the key was on the original CD case, which has long since been misplaced.
Digital Expiration: Older digital storefronts where the software was purchased may no longer exist, making it impossible to retrieve order history.
OS Migration: Moving to a new computer often triggers a prompt for the serial number during the re-installation process. Why You Should Avoid "Cracks" and "Keygens"
Searching for a "Hip Hop eJay 5 Reloaded Serial Number" or "Keygen" on the open web can be a risky endeavor. Many sites claiming to offer free serial numbers are actually hubs for:
Malware and Viruses: Execution files (.exe) disguised as key generators often contain trojans that can compromise your computer's security.
Adware: These sites frequently bombard your browser with intrusive ads and trackers.
Incomplete Software: "Cracked" versions of the software often have bugs that cause the program to crash during the export process, leading to lost work. How to Properly License eJay Software Today
If you are looking to get a legitimate working version of Hip Hop eJay 5 Reloaded, the landscape has changed. The eJay brand has changed hands several times over the last two decades.
Official eJay Website: Check the official eJay website for modern "Reloaded" versions. These are often updated to be compatible with Windows 10 and 11 and come with a fresh, valid serial number upon purchase.
Customer Support: If you have proof of a previous purchase, reaching out to current eJay support can sometimes help in retrieving a lost key.
Compatibility Modes: Remember that even with a valid serial number, older versions of Hip Hop eJay 5 may require you to run the program in "Compatibility Mode" (for Windows XP or 7) to function correctly on modern hardware. Final Thoughts
Hip Hop eJay 5 Reloaded remains a fantastic tool for those looking to capture that specific early-2000s boom-bap sound. While the hunt for a serial number can be frustrating, obtaining the software through official, updated channels is the only way to ensure your PC stays safe and your creative flow remains uninterrupted.
Whether you're a veteran producer looking for a hit of nostalgia or a newcomer wanting to learn the basics of song structure, Hip Hop eJay 5 is a piece of music history worth exploring—the right way.
Part 1: Why Are People Still Searching for This Serial Number?
The persistent search for the Hip Hop Ejay 5 Reloaded serial number comes down to three primary motivations:
Software Features and Usage
-
Music Production: Hip Hop Ejay 5 Reloaded is designed to offer a range of tools for music production, including beats, samples, and effects. It's user-friendly, making it accessible for beginners while still offering features that more experienced producers might find useful.
-
User Interface: The software typically features an intuitive interface where users can easily navigate through different sections, including the beat maker, sample editor, and mixer.
-
Compatibility: Ensure that the software is compatible with your operating system. Some older software might require older versions of Windows or might not be compatible with macOS.
3. LMMS (Free – Windows/Mac/Linux)
- The Ejay Equivalent: If you want the standalone software feel, LMMS is open source. It looks like 2005 software, but in a good way.
- Why it wins: It comes with hundreds of hip-hop drum kits and sample instruments. You can even import your old Ejay loops (if you convert them).
- Cost: $0.