Musik Messe Frankfurt Report

Every year without fail, hi-tech instrument manufacturers congregate in the huge exhibition halls of frankfurt to show off their very latest creations. Paul Ireson brings you the edited highlights of this year's show.

Programmable Dual Channel Polyphonic Synthesiser

Paul Young's Tomb Of Memories analysed track by track

Few instruments have caused as great a stir in the marketplace as the futuristic-looking DG1. Stepp describe it as "a radically new instrument that plays like a guitar, and which can produce some of the most phenomenal sounds you're ever likely to hear." Ian Gilby visited Stepp to find out for himself and talk with its creator, Stephen Randall.

guitar legend and mail order rock star

David Mellor reviews this sample library for the educated user.

Master Bits Sampling Collection 500, 600, 700 and 800

When your music cries out for the sounds of synths that you haven't got, your sampler can be your best friend. Tim Goodyer samples four CDs packed with the sounds of synths, drum machines and even samplers.

The new FM synthesis

Writing it down

its rhythm and reason. Ben Mandelson of Orchestra Jazira looks at the history of African guitar playing and players, and their tricks

We talk to synth punk band Attrition. Will they wear you down?

Since the break-up of his group Japan in November 1982, David Sylvian has been slowly widening the base of his music to encompass both ethnic and avant-garde sounds. Mark Prendergast gathers the facts on the change of style.

Dave Crombie checks out the Oberheim 4-voice polyphonic synth.

This month, Electronic Dream Plant to Elka.

Software for the Atari ST

When the conventional approaches to composing music wn't deliver the goods, this Atari ST program may help provide the inspiration. Ian Waugh investigates computer-generated music.

Casino and Emperor guitars

digital guitar science

Hints, Tips & News From The World Of Music Software

Spurred on by the successful reaction to our previous Steinberg and Dr.T support pages, we bring you a regular new column of hints, tips and news from the world of music software.

BassCheck

Dave Burrluck back again with Manson's other new baby, the KahlerTrem-equipped Kestrel.

Dance music with direction

digital poly

Yamaha's DX7 may well be a classic keyboard but its MIDI implementation and small onboard memory are starting to look decidedly limited compared to newer generation keyboards. What's needed is an upgrade, and the add-on E! board from America's Grey Matter Response is certainly that! Martin Russ enthuses over its features.

Korg Wavedrum

Innovative electronic percussion