Most editing software is more user-friendly than digital parameter access, and more suited to the demands of editing complex digital synthesizers than traditional analogue controls. Greg Truckell investigates.

Clive Keeler describes the building of a simple test tone oscillator which can be mounted in a patchbay if required.

Music System Software

A software package for the CBM64 sets out to utilise the SID chip but involves MIDI along the way. Simon Trask investigates the consequences, now that Island Logic have given way to Firebird.

The ability to load new samples whilst playing is only one of many performance-related features which make the 20-voice EPS stand out from the current crowd of sampling keyboards. Craig Anderton reveals the others...

At last the MA-36 MIDI Data Analyser is here to diagnose all your MIDI illnesses

Hints, Tips & News From The World Of Music Software

More hints and tips from the world of music software.

Nicholas Rowland guides us through the tricky process of choosing the best sequencer for our money

Intelligent Pitch Shifter

Most pitch shifters wouldn't know their A minor from their E major, but DigiTech's IPS33 knows a thing or two about playing in key. Simon Trask finds himself in harmony with the Intelligent Pitch Shifter.

The Mix

The first of a 2-part series on creative mixing.

Digital Sampling Workstation

After a recent change in UK distribution, Ensoniq look set to increase their popularity with this upgraded version of their EPS sampler. Simon Trask likes what he samples.

Software upgrades mean there can never be a definitive review of a program. David Bradwell keeps track of the latest Hybrid Arts' SMPTETrack updates.

Acoustic Drums

Some people look upon the prospect of recording an acoustic drum kit with dread. It needn't be that daunting if you follow a few simple guidelines.

memorable combo

Sheer XTC

A truly classy digital reverb at a sensible price.

Digital Effects Processors

Software for Commodore 64

Mark Jenkins supercharges the studio with this latest hi-tech recording software for the inexpensive Commodore 64 micro.

The sound of an acoustic piano is perhaps the most important single timbre in pop, rock, jazz, and classical music. Julian Colbeck looks at contemporary MIDI alternatives to the real thing.

This month, Electronic Dream Plant to Elka.

Shadowland

Part 9: Shadowland. More inside info on the compositional structures Dave adopted on this track.

He came, he saw, he sent in his copy. His name was Jim Betteridge

SAS Electronic Piano

Structured Adaptive Synthesis (SAS to you) comes to a piano that costs less than £2000. Simon Trask combs the area for compromises.

Sample Playback Keyboard

With the popular Proteus series of sample playback modules as its inspiration, E-mu's new synth sounds as good as it looks. Simon Trask explores the Master Performance System.

Our unique buyers' guide lists dedicated sequencers, software packages and computer music systems. Nothing else comes close.