When anyone talks of software based professional recording systems their minds generally turn to the inevitable Fairlight, Synclavier set ups — mega-buck systems that are highly specialised and are going to eat up a large chunk of your budget.

Software systems designed for use with relatively inexpensive microcomputers have been available for years. Finding one that is able to survive the rigours, and meet the demands of professional recording needs, is altogether rarer.

This month SE+P puts Steinberg's Pro-24 track software to test, using it in a number of different and demanding applications with the Atari 520 micro. The conclusions are worth noting.

Most studios would probably not believe it worthwhile investing in an Atari 520 computer for whatever their reasons, or prejudices. Yet, given a degree of open mindness you could end up saving yourself thousands of pounds by using it with various software packages.

For instance, this particular program (with the computer its total cost is less than a grand) can be used as a sequencer to run synths and drum machines, allowing you to have more tracks on which to operate. It also avoids having to go direct onto multi track, so saving one generation of degradation.

Couple this with its usefulness as a compositional tool (giving you massive flexibility) and its ability to be used in conjunction with a synchroniser (synching video to computer rather than tape, hence making life simpler) and your studio has a tool that is versatile, ergonomic and value for money.

Sometimes, the soft approach can provide dividends.