It has come to our attention that some of you have bad back-up habits. You know who you are...

Dynacord Rhythm Stick

A guitar for drummers, a percussion controller for keyboardists, or a drum-kit for guitar players? The Rhythm Stick could be all of these things, as Nigel Lord discovers.

Betteridge back again, with a step-by-step guide to the mysteries of mike technique.

Ampcheck

The slick, compact new power amp gets the Curtis Schwartz once over

When you put your faith in a software-based sequencer, little can be as demoralising as a computer crash caused by mains fluctuation. Vic Lennard looks at one means of protecting your music.

Version 4

Brian Heywood evaluates the latest update to Voyetra's powerful PC-based sequencing program.

Studio Test

Curtis Schwartz meets The Master Controller and lives to tell the tale

Atari ST Software

Few players get the best out of their synths these days without the help of a software editor. Gordon Reid boots up his ST and goes to work on his Kawai K4.

The Vital Ingredient

By using elements of equalisation combined with established psychoacoustic principles, the SPL Vitalizer enhances the entire audio spectrum. Paul White reviews the unit that is now a vital ingredient of his mixes.

Ideally every synth and sampler editor would allow you to edit sounds while your sequencer is running. One that does is this desk accessory for the Atari ST. Vic Lennard opens the box.

An Empty Wallet

Budget effects units for those of us with tight wallets.

Due to popular demand the swinging singing tutor is back with her own series

Contour your instrument envelopes with this versatile effect unit

Analogue-to-MIDI converter

The first of its kind to appear on the UK market, the Digi-Atom is a CV-to-MIDI converter that allows old analogue equipment to be used in conjunction with new MIDI gear. Paul White again.

Guitarcheck

French, Japanese, Dave B takes them all on

PART 1: In the first installment of this two-part feature, we take a look behind the scenes at the design, development and construction of a modern day professional recording studio.

Looking for a be-bop bass without hassle? Matt Isaacson looks at a box of bass sounds that may help you with the bottom end of your music without tying up your favourite synth or sampler.

Guest producer Muff Winwood holds what are sure to be controversial opinions on artistes' responsibilities and expectations.