One of America’s leading session players takes a breather between TOA equipment demonstrations, and takes Tim Goodyer into his confidence over MIDI and a few of the behind-the-scenes goings-on in its administration.

Fancy following in the footsteps of Herbie Hancock, Keith Jarret and Chick Corea? Robert Irving did, and now finds himself doing just that, playing keyboards with Miles Davis. Tim Goodyer reports.

Rebis Sampler

The world’s best-known builder of modular studio effects has just introduced its entry in the sampling steeplechase. But will it fall at the first hurdle? Paul White has the answer.

Atari ST Sampler

If you fancy turning the processing power of your Atari ST to the delicate art of sampling, AVR's Pro-Series 12 could be for you. Vic Lennard soft samples.

Software for the Amiga

A British company have a comprehensive sampling package for Commodore's Amiga. Does it set a standard against which subsequent Amiga software will be judged? Chris Jenkins finds out.

Microvox Sampling System

Simon Trask delves deeper into what could be the most sophisticated computer-based sound sampler. It's British, and it costs less than any dedicated machine.

Where do you go to learn more about the subjects covered in this magazine? The answer is the Gateway School of Recording & Music Technology. Ralph Denyer investigates.

Belgian sampling innovators Front 242 have been accused of encouraging a fascist following - where does the sampling stop and the politics begin? David Bradwell brings news from the front.

Remember, you'll read it here first!

UMI-2B

Sequencing interface for the BBC

What do you get when you cross brilliant musicianship, technological wizardry and one of the brightest line-ups in modern jazz? Answer: Steps Ahead. Interview by Liz Rose and Leslie Fradkin.

Ever wondered what goes on in a commercial 16-track studio once the red light comes on? Roger Jackson of West Coast Music reveals all...

European Son

The legendary German synthesist speaks out about technology and technique in this exclusive interview - his first in four years!

At one time it was a pottery studio. At another it was the home of Edward the Confessor. Now it is Millstream Recording Studio. Owner Dik Cadbury tells all.

Michel Huygen/Neuronium

This Spanish synthesist explains the working methods and motivation behind his psychotronic musical landscapes.

Sampling

This month we focus on the hows, whys and whats of sampling.

Yet another selection of recently announced new products to whet your appetite!

Yamaha SPX90

With the help of new software technology, Yamaha's new multi-FX unit does the job of a half-dozen outboard machines. Paul White gives a rundown of what it can do, and how well it does it.

Now making a huge impact in the north of Britain, Detroit's techno music owes its roots to a handful of far-sighted pioneers - amongst them Derrick May. Simon Trask discusses the future of electronic music.

As film music becomes a more popular means for composers to earn a living, Tim Goodyer talks to soundtrack expert Steve Parsons about his work on the new British film, 'Empire State'.

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.

NAMM Winter Market, Anaheim

Paul Wiffen, hotfoot from California, reports on the machines that made headlines at the US music industry's winter shindig...

Sounds, samples, & software upgrades for the modern studio

Software, samples and gadgets for the modern musician