MIDI sophistication in the humble patchbay: this modest-looking unit can store 100 routings of its 16x16 audio matrix and place the proceedings under MIDI control. Lorenz Rychner patches things up.

Sequencing On Stage

Sequencers are a boon in the studio, but on stage they create the potential for problems that can ruin a gig. Paul Ireson explains how to steer clear of trouble.

You may have what seems like the perfect combination of MIDI voice module and guitar controller, but without some kind of interface unit, you may not get the best out of them. Rick Davies points you in the right direction.

Hints, Tips & News From The World Of Music Software

More software hints and tips from C-Lab and Steinberg.

Ensoniq SQ80 & ESQ1 Synthesizers

Frustrated by the limitations of sequencing with MIDI mono mode 4? Simon Trask discusses the benefits of multi mode and investigates its implementation on Ensoniq's SQ80 and ESQ1 synths.

Studio Test

Curtis Schwartz expands his programming power and refines his live sound with the Roland SDE-2500 MIDI Digital Delay

...while Kendall Wrightson reflects on a Mac world...

Read any good detective stories lately? Follow the clues to this competition at the BMF and you could be the proud owner of a much sought-after Ensoniq ESQ-1 multitimbral polysynth with onboard 8-track MIDI sequencer. Full details and entry form on page 42.

Geoff Twigg on how MIDI came about, what it does, and how it does it.

Design Studio Programs

A set of programs for the Spectrum to enable you to unravel the mysteries of DX synthesis.

Getting the Most from Mono Mode

You may have your heart set on a specific MIDI guitar controller, but do you know which kind of synth voice unit to combine it with? Rick Davies offers some interactive advice.

Throughout the hi-tech revolution, the major instrument manufacturers have made our dreams come true - or have they? Does the industry look after the musicians?

When Enough Is Too Much

Making tracks with MIDI

Everything you ever wanted to know about the MIDI standard but were afraid to ask - Paul Overaa explains all

Happy Birthday To Us! 8 Years On Top

Mixing Metaphors

This month you can win a CIS GT-Pro MIDI workstation stand, plus a keyboard bench, music stand, and small x-frame!

... Brian Heywood pores over the PC...

If you’re tired of playing keyboards and want a more imaginative way to create music, then this mouse-driven MIDI controller may prove an ideal alternative. Martin Russ investigates.

Multi-talented sequencing software is all very well, but if you're unsure about recording with computers, you need a starter program to test the water with. Ian Waugh tries out just such a package.

The Next Generation

A new generation from Roland