PC sound card with stacks of software

Stereo Effects Processor

It's slim, dark and sexy, flashes alluringly in a rack and has multiple uses - it's Yamaha's latest sound processor, the EMP700. Derek Johnson opens up the black magic box.

Ben Duncan explains the language of the specification sheet

find out what the small print means

The Mixing Console (2)

Part 6: The mixing console. David Mellor continues his close examination of the recording studio's most complex and expensive piece of equipment.

A facelift for Argents plus some interesting new software launches at the budget end of the market

Jim Gilmour, principal keyboard player in the band, talks to Paul Wiffen about the host of keyboards the band use onstage and in the studio. Their recent European tour increased their reputation as one of Canada's premier music-makers. Photography by Sally Newman.

ITs Guide To The British Music Fair

Was the electric bass a logical outcome of the roots of Rock'n'roll or the very cause of its happening? Ken Achard examines the products of the visionary Leo Fender.

Northern electronic music exponent Ian Boddy answers questions from Tim Goodyer about the recording of his new album, live performance, and music synthesis.

In the days before Roland established their reputation for consistently delivering the goods, they turned out some weird and wonderful synths. Peter Forrest lifts the dust cover on the old SH7 monosynth.

What do you get when you cross brilliant musicianship, technological wizardry and one of the brightest line-ups in modern jazz? Answer: Steps Ahead. Interview by Liz Rose and Leslie Fradkin.

Yamaha VL1m

Virtual synthesis in a box

Guitars Go Avant Garde

The best-known instrumentalists aren't necessarily the ones with the most to say. We chat to American avant garde guitar player Steve Tibbetts via the postal service, and find he's got a lot of views worth hearing.

The ability to accommodate microtonal tunings may look good on the spec sheet of your favourite synth, but what use is it to you? Scott Wilkinson reads between the lines.

The Mix's terrestrial bulletin board

(But Were Too Afraid To Ask!)

Martin Russ continues his detailed investigation into the inner secrets of MIDI's most powerful messages.

Welcome to The News where we tell you what on earth is happening.

The Teac 80-8 tape machine, Tascam Model 5 mixer, and dbx DX-8 noise-reduction unit.

Digital Multi-effects Processor

In the multi-effects processor wars, Digitech's DSP 128 Plus distinguishes itself with comprehensive facilities and little sound colouration. Ian Waugh treats himself.

Breaking a prolonged silence, one of the eighties' most successful solo pop songwriters talks to Tim Goodyer about his new home, his new album, and an ever-expanding collection of synthesisers.

Passport Music Shop

Ian Waugh examines Passport's new scorewriting program for the Commodore 64, and likes what he sees. If only he could write music...

MIDI-To-Tape Synchronisation

MIDI-to-tape sync: why you need it, what it does and how you use it.

Musical Arrangement For Recording

PART 3: David Mellor looks at arranging tricks and techniques with an eye to achieving a better recording.

Martin Russ orchestrates his way through two fascinating ST programs from French software house, Digigram.