At last - the instrument with a name on everybody's lips receives an in-depth examination of its European version. Man-on-the-spot is Paul Wiffen.

Reader Profile

Having written to us suggesting we extend our magazine coverage to include readers' own set-ups and experiences, Bruce Graham suddenly found himself the subject of such a feature. Read on and find out why...

A sneak preview of what you can expect to see at this year’s British Music Fair - the first to open its doors to the public for years.

As the world and his wife gets hot under the collar about affordable 16-bit sampling, we wonder if the increase in sound quality is necessary at all.

The BBC's sound effects records have been the staple diet of many a film, TV and radio production. Now there is a new generation of digitally recorded sound effects available on compact disc which are ideal for sampling. David Mellor assesses their worth.

the average album costs over six quid: where does it go, and why?

Digital Reverb

Following on from the DRV 1000 and DRV2000, this latest digital reverb cum multi-effects processor is Korg's most sophisticated yet - 16-bit, 20kHz bandwidth, full MIDI control and, for all armchair enthusiasts, an infra-red remote control. David Hughes reports.

Fame: Getting It

A quick guide to self-awareness, and some tips on extending your fame beyond 15 minutes

The First Single

and sensible use of mixing time

Bootleg synths a killer?, New EX, Alligator PA, More scoops

Build this versatile LED PPM/VU meter project.

Studio Focus

Roadie

Mike Hrano looks at the ups and downs of humping

Guest producer Robin Millar strikes a note of realism on the subject of home recording, record deals, and the size of A&R department waste bins...

Level 42's Svengali gets his comeuppance

Having recently celebrated their first 100 years in the music industry, we thought it opportune to discover what Yamaha have planned for the next century. Paul Gilby investigates.

Busking

The much maligned art in theory and practice. Feature and acoustic guitar by Adrian Deevoy

An analysis of The Concerts in China double album on Polydor PODV3

A complete psychosensory experience in the back of a Transit van? David Bradwell talks to the man behind the most sophisticated sound system on wheels.

Dave Stewart On Going It Alone In The Music Biz

The major record company route is not the only one to musical success. Dave Stewart has successfully avoided the majors and still manages to make a good living from his home-produced music. Here, he charts his musical history.

Everything you ever wanted to know about samplers... 48 models compared! Paul Gilby surveys the current sampler market, exposes the 'spec wars', dispels the 16-bit myth and explains in simple terms how sampling really works, before telling you what to look out for when buying secondhand.