Why limit use of your computer to sequencing and librarian functions? Roly Pickering explains what bulletin boards are, how you get onto them and what they can do for you.

Digital Parametric Equaliser

The advantages of programmability and the power of MIDI spread further into the studio environment. Vic Lennard checks out Roland's programmable parametric equaliser.

From the first all-electronic record label to the first ARS Electronica concert, Hubert Bognermayr has been one of electronic music's pioneers. David Bradwell makes the Austrian connection.

Contemporary American composer Steve Reich talks about train journeys, music video theatre, and the ethics and aesthetics of sampling. Simon Trask goes along for the ride.

Synth Expander

The latest addition to Oberheim's classic Matrix range offers 1000 analogue-style synth sounds for under £500. Simon Trask investigates the attraction of analogue in '88.

Appropriately enough, MT shares its birthday with one of the companies which has helped shape today's synthesisers: Roland UK. Gez Kahan presents a view from the inside.

Take three musicians who like to remain anonymous, four film-makers and a stunning live show, and you've got one of the most original - if unsung - bands in Britain today.

Tim Goodyer talks to the man who's programmed Peter Gabriel's synths, recorded a host of electronic albums under the name Synergy, and started up his own record label for instrumental music.

This month we scrutinise contracts, paying particular attention to the sanity clause.

NAME: new album/new equipment/sound techniques/change of style/gig horrors... LIST

Ibanez UE400 and UE405

Two versatile effects units that aim to combine the best of both worlds: the flexibility of pedals and the neatness of rack-mounting systems.

The use of samples is often frowned upon by rock audiences, but Jesus Jones have made them the basis of some of the most aggressive and innovative rock music around. Nigel Lord talks to Jesus.

Digital Drum Machine

Following hard on the heels of the R100, this junior beat box from Kawai threatens to outshine its big brother, as Simon Trask finds out.

Thomas Dolby is back after a four year break, without the mad professor image but with an excellent new album in Astronauts & Heretics, his most personal recording to date. Paul Tingen spoke to him about the long road from solo synthesist to globe-trotting collaborator.

Star of recording studio and airshow in conversation with Tim Goodyer. Is pop about to lose a hi-tech innovator, and display flying gain a star aviator?

Signal processor control is one of MIDI's less well-known applications yet it offers enormous scope for the imaginative user. Craig Anderton is your guide...

A complete psychosensory experience in the back of a Transit van? David Bradwell talks to the man behind the most sophisticated sound system on wheels.

The 60's R&B producer talks to us about those classic takes, and how he got them

A pro studio that's offering its facilities to new bands for free? Mike Myers tells Nicholas Rowland what's wrong with the record biz and how he's trying to put it right.

Beyond the Groove

There's an S1000 in every studio — almost. David Mellor presents an introduction to this popular sampler.

Organ Synthesiser Module

Another contender for the recently-reinstated Hammond Drawbar crown comes in a single rack space. Gordon Reid organises his thoughts.

Sound quality has long been a grey area in the world of sampling. Chris Meyer finds out it takes more than "bits" to make a sampler sound good.