Not so much a home studio as a studio in the home.

The assembled masses of the IM review department wax lyrical over their selected favourites from this year's music fair.

Joan alone with Joan, Wilf Green plays fly on the wall

Mr & Mrs Mark E. Smith at home

The ins and outs of phasing explained.

Vesta Kozo Sampler

Another goodie for your overflowing 19" effects ruck, this one offers pitch-controllable sampling and a full-function DDL into the bargain. Dave Simpson grabs a microphone and decides it's worth making room for.

now, here is the news

Digital Rhythm Composer

What the world has been waiting for - Roland's first-ever digital drum machine. Exclusive review by Dan Goldstein.

Drum Machine

As the drum machine goes from strength to strength, Yamaha give it a new dimension by adding a synth-style "bend" wheel. Simon Trask wonders if the beatbox will ever be the same again.

could your instruments stand Jam Science?

John started his career as a tape op and worked his way up. He is now a respected engineer and producer as well as being a great supporter of ambisonic recording.

Sony PCM F1

Introducing the Sony PCM F1 recorder.

For the first time, a UK magazine gives coverage to the fair that follows NAMM and Frankfurt. It may not be as big, but it's growing in importance all the time. Dan Goldstein reports from the Bosphorus.

Rhythm Composer

Beat crazy. As yet another drum machine arrives on the market, Nicholas Rowland wonders if it's time to get away from the present format.

Vince Clarke reveals trade secrets.

Roland Report

The Rhythm Section

Landscape's bassist and drummer recount their reasons for choosing to form their own label to Ralph Denyer.

Digital drum machines may rule the waves in the R&D labs, but one obsolete analogue device is still the record producers' first choice. Tim Goodyer dissects the appeal of Roland's classic TR808.

Ricky Gordon fires questions at hot Cole

Absolute Beginners

Neville and Val Pearson pass on their experience in equipping a home studio. Following their advice could save you from making more than one costly mistake.

Conclusion

The Teac 80-8 tape machine, Tascam Model 5 mixer and dbx DX-8 noise-reduction unit: last month we examined them individually, this month we look at them in combination.

A Bad Job

This month we take a look at salvage techniques. What to do when you have to re-mix someone else's less than ideal master tape.