Drums and Percussion

Nowhere is the correct use of reverb more important than in the treatment of drum and percussion sounds. We reveal all — and we tell you a bit about reverb too.

Ensoniq ESQ1 Polysynth

The Mirage people announce a synth that uses analogue and digital technology, throws in a multitrack sequencer, and costs just over £1000. Paul Wiffen checks it out.

We've waited patiently for Roland's super sampler - but now it's here, and every bit as hot as expected. Simon Trask asks if Roland have set a new standard in digital samplers.

Reverb: Too much of a good thing?

A new column that allows music industry figures to air their views on whatever it is that bugs them! Keyboard programmer, music consultant and author Paul Wiffen kicks things off this month.

Part 4: Martin Russ looks at how mapping can help in traversing the MIDI jungle.

Bit 99 Polysynth

The very latest from Chase has a lot to live up to in following the Bit One synth and Bit 01 expander. Can it cut it? Tim Goodyer thinks it can.

Effects programmer

More sounds, less pounds

big watts for ivories

Studio Test

Curtis Schwartz samples Korg's new digital delay

As the new Yamaha SY family of synths grows, so does its diversity. Simon Trask checks out a junior member with some interesting tricks up its sleeve.

Oscillator Modulation

They've been a mainstay of electronic music for over 20 years, they're less expensive than ever before, and they still make sounds the digital machines can't. Analogue synthesizers have been receiving some digital assistance of late, but at heart they're still analogue synthesizers - and if you want to make them perform magic, you need to speak their language. Craig Anderton is your interpreter...

Logical sequencing tips

After April's In Brief review, Rick Davies sends us a user report on the latest FM synth module, and throws in a review of the MDF1 MIDI data filer for good measure.

sampler

A mid-priced sampler with a spec that'll worry the high-priced competition

True Stories

that will amaze you

Programmable Polysynth

A cosmetic overhaul, some additional facilities and a price reduction for Siel's Opera 6 polysynth. Geoff Twigg reports.

Zoom 9001 Multi-Effects Processor

Big effects, small package — Mike Simmons thinks it must be a Zoom.

Casio CZ-1

Since the release of their diminutive yet ground-breaking CZ-101 synth, Casio have been steadily improving the facilities of their Phase Distortion keyboards with each subsequent CZ product. The culmination of those efforts is now manifest in their best-ever synthesizer, the CZ-1, a truly professional performance instrument. Chris Jenkins says 'welcome'.

A comprehensive guide to features and capabilities

SDD-2000

Korg's sampling digital delay

Bit One

The stunning Bit One Poly - Keyboard split and layer, with separate memory access, and the kind of facilities you would expect to find on a machine costing three or four times as much... our reviewer is seduced...

DYNAMIC VECTOR SYNTHESISER

Yamaha's new SY22 combines RCM synthesis with elements of the Prophet VS's vector synthesis to give us Dynamic Vector Synthesis. Simon Trask previews the return of the joystick synth.