an A to Z of micro talk

And following on from that, David Ellis takes an in-depth look at how the MIDI system works, and the sort of potential it encompasses.

Info and addresses for the networked musician

Whatever happened to MTC?

'Whatever happened to MIDI Timecode?' asks Chris Smith of XRI Systems.

Accepted as the synchronisation standard in the television and broadcast industry, this digital timecode is fast making inroads into the recording studio at all levels. Kendall Wrightson puts it all in perspective with the start of this series.

Intelligent Lighting System

It's easy to be drawn to bright lights

Hints, Tips & News From The World Of Music Software

A Guide to Computers and Communications for the Musician.

Believe it or not, your computer can do considerably more than just go wrong! The burgeoning world of telecommunications offers the musician access to international 'electronic mail' and 'bulletin board' systems, free music software, information databases, help and sound advice. Richard Elen begins a new series that explores how today's top musicians are taking advantage of such systems and tells how you can join in.

JL Cooper PPS2 MIDI/Tape Synchroniser

This compact device from time code pioneers JL Cooper makes light work of your MIDI-to-tape sync needs.

Dynacord MCC1 Interface

The world has been waiting for an interface box that solves all its MIDI routing problems at a single stroke. Simon Trask reckons the wait is now over.

A look at the new, exciting Musical Instrument Digital Interface

An Introduction To Timecode Synchronisation

The release of the new Fostex synchronisers reinforces the importance of timecode in today's recording process. So, to help you familiarise yourself with their applications, Francis Rumsey begins a new series that should tell you all you need to know about timecodes.

Part 6. Resident software specialist Jay Chapman clears up some misleading terminology first, then moves on to relate how the MIDI protocol organises such matters as Program Changes in those humble synthesizers we all take for granted.

Music and the modem

David Janda discovers just what's of interest music wise on the Bulletin boards around the world

Part 2. Richard Elen concludes his guide to computers and communications for musicians with details of how to join and log on to two musicians' networks: PAN and Esi Street. There's also an extensive glossary of terms to help newcomers to this exciting field understand what it is all about.

Thoughts on MIDI's Next Decade

Compact Disc Recorder

Recording CDs at home reaches the "affordable" level - at under £4000, CD Recordable moves into the realm of the home studio. Tim Goodyer primes the laser.

The Master Section

This month we scrutinise the master section of a typical multitrack mixing console and ponder the meaning of PFL, talkback and that small grey button that goes "neep neep".

On the Emax Hard Disk Sampler

Unlike some samplers, Emax has stayed the course since its introduction over 18 months ago and has developed into a mature, well groomed specimen. Having released a Hard Disk version of the machine almost a year ago, Emu Systems have recently given Emax yet another lease of life with their Spectrum Synthesis upgrade, which turns the sampler into a powerful additive synthesizer. David Hughes tries it out

Multimedia Music System for PC & Macintosh

Do Korg's new Mac and PC add-ons represent a sound investment?

Sampling bit by bit.

One persistent area of hi-tech confusion surrounds multitimbrality. Vic Lennard explains what it is, what it's for and what's wrong with it.

Synth Module

A VAST improvement?

FM Sound Generator

Yamaha's preset synth expander offers a multitude of FM sounds for reasonable money, and also boasts MIDI Mono Mode for multi-timbral recording. David Ellis gives his verdict.