New technology has already brought the music industries of East and West closer together, but how has that affected the music itself, and what will happen as the two cultures get closer still? Gary Larson gives his viewpoint.

Micropolis A/V drive

Seriously big hard disk

His may be an unfamiliar name, but this avant-garde composer has been writing music that stretches technology to its limits for two decades. Ron Briefel talks to the man about his current passion - Yamaha's X-series equipment.

Part 1 looks at early keyboard instruments

kits, rim shots, playing surfaces

Quietly but surely, synchronisation codes have become an essential part of MIDI recording, but what's all this SMPTE and FSK stuff really about? Chris Many looks at the different sync codes and why we need them.

AKG Blue Line Microphones

A modular range of microphones covering almost every audio eventuality from broadcast to recording and AV.

Even more about Mixing Consoles

More about Mixing Consoles

Electronic Drum Module and Super Pads

To complete their recent flurry of new products, the Cambridgeshire company have come up with a programmable drum synth module and a set of 'Super Pads' specially designed for it. Nigel Lord takes the system for a trial run.

Tony Horkins confesses a closet liking for the king of Canadian A.O.R. Let the kids rock...

Atari ST Software

Without UK distribution, Hybrid's Atari sequencers have almost been forgotten. But now they're back with a Gold update to shout about, as Vic Lennard finds out.

Fostex Foundation 2000

A Series By Warren Cann

If you use a drum machine or programme drum parts on your sequencer, chances are you need help. Warren Cann explains why in this introduction to his new series on drum programming.

Tantek's most ambitious project to date.

DATA: Martyn Ware/new album/Synclavier keyboard/digital technique... HARD COPY

Grand Piano

For everyone who's ever wished they could play their favourite synthesiser patch from a grand piano, Yamaha have the answer. Simon Trask discovers that old and new technology can co-exist in harmony.

Software for the Atari ST

A powerful sequencer for a less than overpowering price? Simon "loadsamidi" Trask discovers the slimmed-down version of Master Tracks Pro might just be Passport's passport to mass popularity.

The First Single

and sensible use of mixing time

DAT Recorder

Tascam's latest machine has all the features we have come to expect of a professional DAT recorder. Dave Lockwood assesses its performance.

Ray Staff - Disc Cutting Engineer at Trident Studios.

the man who gave FM to the DX7

Thomas Dolby explains his new strategy

SEQUENTIAL CIRCUITS PRO ONE

The most popular post-Minimoog monosynth is still the best alternative for everything from new age to northern techno. Greg Truckell reintroduces an old friend.

What in the name of Prince is Reverb and how can it help your music?

and what can it do for you, your sound, and your music?

With The Housemartins

What a nice, ordinary, loveable bunch of geezers they are, Paul Trynka declares