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.

ExpanderCheck

It's FM, it's got mono-mode, it's cheap(ish), and it's wonderful. Martin Moody relates to Yamaha's new MIDI expander

Atari ST Software

When you're on a limited budget it's important to get the most out of every piece of gear you own. Gordon Reid checks out budget software aimed at getting the best out of your FB01.

Yamaha DX7S

A story in which our hero, David Mellor, deserts the path of enlightenment and sells his DX7 Mk1 for a rival keyboard. Can the DX7S tempt him back to the true faith? Read on...

What is a MIDI Merger and why do you need one if you use a computer-based MIDI sequencer? Martin Russ helps BT's funding by receiving long telephone calls from frantic MIDIphiles.

(But Were Too Afraid To Ask!)

PART 8: Martin Russ explains the circular nature of parameter editing and data dumps.

'What's the Colour of Money?' was one of last year's most inventive hit singles, but since then, little has been heard from Mark Rogers. Tim Goodyer talks to him as the first HB album is released.

The Expanded Expander

Here it is - the professional version MT32 complete with separate voice outputs, built-in reverb and hardly any noise. Martin Russ looks at Roland’s new studio-oriented rackmount LA synthesizer.

ALESIS DATADISK MIDI Data Recorder

The latest MIDI data recorder to appear is the Alesis Datafiler SysEx recorder, which allows you to record system exclusive info direct to disk. Filing with Vic Lennard.

Ex-OMDers Paul Humphreys and Martin Cooper are back with new material and plenty to say on OMD, songwriting, sampling and going independent

Last month we gave you advice on choosing a computer for musical applications; as a follow on, this month Mike Barnes provides a comprehensive rundown of available music software for the Atari, Macintosh, IBM PC, and Amiga computers.

Bridging The Gap

Whilst Roland and Yamaha take LA and FM synthesis into the home, Technics make it even harder to differentiate between a home keyboard and a synthesizer with the release of the AX7. Paul Ireson checks it out.

Multi-Timbral Expander

Hot foot from the BMF, hard-working Martin Russ brings us his review of this innocent-looking multitimbral LA expander which packs many of the features of Roland's D-50 synthesizer, including onboard digital reverb, but with the added bonus of 28 sampled drum sounds!

(But Were Too Afraid To Ask!)

PART 3: Martin Russ continues his in-depth explanation of MIDI's most misunderstood messages.

More useful hints and tips for Dr.T's music programs, written and compiled exclusively for SOS by Dr.T themselves.

If you own more than one MIDI synthesizer and an Atari ST, then this universal editor/MIDI controller desk accessory could revolutionise the way you work. Martin Russ explores ...

Another useful page of hints and tips for Dr.T's music programs, written and compiled exclusively for SOS by Dr.T themselves.

As synthesizer prices continue to plummet and the number of features increases, Korg introduce a colourful range of low-cost 8-voice, multitimbral, aftertouch and velocity sensitive performance synths. Mark Jenkins straps one on...

Version 4

Brian Heywood evaluates the latest update to Voyetra's powerful PC-based sequencing program.

Brian Heywood puts the new Aries PC through its paces

Nomad's first product is a low cost SMPTE reader/generator that allows MIDI drum machines, synths and sequencers to sync to tape easily. David Mellor puts it to the test.

IT's guide through the MIDI jungle