Sound Mastering

Ace Records' re-mastering engineers reveal the secrets of acoustic restoration

Tascam 112 and 112R Cassette Decks

Two decks, one basic and one sophisticated, but both offering superb performance.

Is what Yamaha do. Our brave and selfless editor finds out how, first hand.

Fashionably minimalistic, America's premier avant garde composer recently visited the UK for an all too brief concert tour. He has been cited by many international stars as one of their first influences, yet commercial success has eluded him. Dan Goldstein listens to what he has to say

MIDI & Multitrack

Part 10: David Mellor looks at ways of getting the best of both worlds by combining a MIDI system with a multitrack tape recorder.

David Mellor offers advice to the studio newcomer on the original multi-effects unit.

Veteran songwriter Peter Hammill and programmer Paul Ridout have used some revolutionary applications of MIDI technology in the creation of Hammill's latest album. Paul Tingen interviews them, and comes away suitably impressed.

This exciting project from Paul Williams is capable of making even the most dull recordings come to life - it's a pity it can't do anything about duff songwriting though.

In the first of a series, Fred Dellar looks at the chequered career of Gus Dudgeon.

Continuing the tradition that began with their 144 Portastudio, Tascam have created a combined package of mixer and 8-track recorder - the 388 Studio 8 - whose compact dimensions belie its true versatility. Dave Lockwood assesses its performance.

Jay Chapman delves deep into the murky waters of MIDI's often ignored Mono Mode in pursuit of multi-timbral expression!

Interconnect

Less a sequencer more an astonishingly flexible 8-track digital multitrack for keyboards. David Mellor pinpoints the essential differences and judges where the QX5 fits into the Yamaha product line.

Steinberg Pro24 Software

Simon Trask looks at one of the first multitrack MIDI recording packages to be made available for the Atari ST series of computers. How does it compare to dedicated sequencers?

The lowdown on current polysynths, voice expanders and controller keyboards in this month's instalment of our unique buyer's guide.

Studiomaster Star System Mixer

Is it an analogue modular synth? No! It's a mixer with a difference.

Jon and Helena Marsh in their natural habitat

Two years ago Sequential launched the Prophet 2000 sampling keyboard, which set the standard for all the 12-bit machines on the market. Will the Prophet 3000 stereo rack sampler do the same for the 16-bit field? Paul Wiffen thinks so. Read why...

A step-by-step guide to the workings of a typical mixing console.

Insert Points & Aux Sends

Last minute bargains: Guided tour around typical multitrack desk, stopping at all notable features. Bed, breakfast and evening meal not provided.

How Good Are They?

Over the next two issues Graham Hinton tests five mixer automation systems which all provide control of audio signal level by means of Voltage Controlled Amplifiers (VCAs) and are accessible to some degree by MIDI. This month it's the turn of the Akai MPX820 and Simmons SPM8:2.

Some Thoughts About Contemporary Music

Application of the CEM 3310

VC Envelope Generator

Phil Walsh with some tips on buying second hand gear