Digital Rhythm Module

If you've ever wanted to trade some of your drum machine's sequence memory for sound memory, the DRM1 could be the beat box for you. Matt Isaacson sounds it out.

Portastudio Review

Synth Expander

The latest addition to Oberheim's classic Matrix range offers 1000 analogue-style synth sounds for under £500. Simon Trask investigates the attraction of analogue in '88.

Atari ST Software

It's powerful, it's intuitive and it's cheap - just about everything an ideal Atari sequencing package should be. Ian Waugh reviews.

Programmable Phase Distortion Polysynth with Sequencer

Continuing their fight for pro keyboard acceptance, Casio double the CZ1000's voices and throw in a multitrack sequencer for good measure. Simon Trask casts a critical eye over the results.

Digital Wave Memory Synthesizer

A digital wave memory synthesizer to be precise. Kawai may well be the world's largest supplier of acoustic pianos but does their forte also lie in the hi-tech field? Mark Jenkins investigates.

RhythmCheck

The drum machine you can hit, and get something more than an ex-drum machine. Reed administers the blows.

Programmable Digital Waveform Polysynth

An intriguing new synth design that tries to combine digital waveform generation with analogue control. Does it achieve its objectives? Dan Goldstein thinks it does - just.

The Pros And Cons

Seasoned programmer Paul Wiffen reveals the truth about separate voice outputs on samplers. Are they really desirable or are they just a nuisance? And what happens to the polyphony when you use them? We tell you what no others dared!!

Vintage technology strikes back

Inside the vintage vault

MIDI Controller

While the keyboard player, horn player and guitarist have enjoyed the benefits of the MIDI revolution, the humble bassist has been sadly neglected. Ollie Crooke gets down to (MIDI) basics.

FM Synthesiser

Yamaha call It "Easy FM" - it's the latest and most friendly presentation of FM synthesis to date. Ian Waugh takes the easy option.

Voice Processor

More than just a vocoder, this voice processor incorporates pitch shifting and pitch-to-MIDI conversion. Bob O'Donnell listens to what it has to say for itself.

Sample Player

A True MIDI Standard?

The non-standard nature of MIDI instruments has become an impediment to MIDI's Use in the home and educational markets, so the instrument manufacturers have come together to create a new standard: General MIDI. Chris Jordan explains what it is and why it is needed.

It's British, it works with an Atari ST computer, it gives very high quality sound and it won't break the bank! Ian Gilby presents a sneak preview of this forthcoming 16-bit stereo sampling machine.

Akai's super-sampler carries on where their S612 left off. Paul Wiffen finds its ease of use belies its sophistication.

Studio Modules

The 100 Series is Yamaha's compact, cost- effective line of studio modules. Simon Trask tests a selection of units from mixer through effects to monitors.

Yamaha DX Keyboards

Dave Bristow, Yamaha’s keyboard consultant, explains how to play and programme these new FM synthesisers

Craig Anderton checks out this new trio of pocket-sized MIDI accessories.

The job with rubber strings and built-in rhythm box. Jerry Uwins has his preconceptions brushed aside. But he's all right now.

More of the mysteries of MIDI dispelled, as Bob O'Donnell puts MIDI plug into MIDI socket and connects controller to expander. Part two of this new series.

Kawai are quickly making a name for themselves in the hi-tech field thanks to good value products like the R100. Ian Waugh files his report.