Computer Controlled Recorder

One of the prime forces for the 90s is sure to be digital recording and editing - as found in TOPAZ. Simon Trask previews a powerful new system from Steinberg Digital Audio.

8-Track Automation System

When you run out of fingers and you find yourself pushing faders up and down with your nose during a mix, then it's time to get a helping hand. Master craftsman David Mellor takes on a new apprentice, the J.L Cooper MixMate.

What to do to get tip-top tapes from our master of the mastering, Steve Toke

...And finally

The First Single

and sensible use of mixing time

An Introduction To Timecode Synchronisation

The release of the new Fostex synchronisers reinforces the importance of timecode in today's recording process. So, to help you familiarise yourself with their applications, Francis Rumsey begins a new series that should tell you all you need to know about timecodes.

TLO Records recently released a single by Bonaventura in the form of a four track Portastudio-compatible cassette that you can mix yourself. Could it be a new trend for the future?

MTR 6:4:2

A budget 6:4:2 mixer that is neither short on features nor costs the earth.

Preset Polysynth

They call it a computer peripheral and MIDI expander, you'll probably think of it as a preset version of the SixTrak. Exclusive review of SCI's new baby by Dan Goldstein.

The Beat Factory

Curtis Schwartz checks out production in the Beat Factory

David Mellor unlocks the creative power of the reel-to-reel tape recorder.

Studiomaster Star System Mixer

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

Fostex’s SMPTE reading/writing, MIDI syncing, auto-locating, remote transport control unit recently underwent a serious internal re-examination. Ed Jones assesses the newly implemented features and describes their practical application.

And I'll Cry If I Want To

so why can't the band play it properly? songwriters’ psychology made simple

A behind-the-scenes glimpse into who does what, and how, in the making of Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe's classic synth-pop records.

Three 4-tracks

Is it possible to get expensive sounds from inexpensive equipment or is the poor person's multitrack merely an expensive toy? David Mellor looks at three entry-level recorders - Tascam Porta 05, Fostex X30, and Yamaha MT2X - and asks 'Which one would you choose?'.

APRS

A brief look at some of the new product at the APRS

Will Digital Audio Tape bring digital clarity to domestic tape recording or will the major record companies use it to impose restrictions on what you can do with recordings you've already paid for?

MIDI is regularly used to perform tasks as varied as switching notes on and off, storing patch libraries and controlling mixes, but can it control sound itself? Vic Lennard looks at the uses of MIDI noise gates.

The Chroma/Apple interface

E&MM talks to EMI's new young electronic duo