The pro-standard SMPTE sync code is now working itself down to many semi-pro and amateur studios - but even the best systems bring their problems. Vic Lennard presents a SMPTE troubleshooters' guide.

Quietly but surely, synchronisation codes have become an essential part of MIDI recording, but what's all this SMPTE and FSK stuff really about? Chris Many looks at the different sync codes and why we need them.

Martin Russ is your guide to the world of music on the Atari ST, in this new monthly column...

Quantisation: the sequencer's revenge on the trained musician. Vic Lennard looks at this much-used but little-understood feature and finds that it has feelings, too.

Commodore Amiga Software

Following its success as an Atari ST sequencing/notation program, Tiger Cub finds itself available to Commodore Amiga owners. Ian Waugh gets a new pet.

Paul White (again) on the latest Cambridgeshire black box - this one syncs drum machines and sequencers to tape.

Sequencing has never been this cheap: can a dedicated sequencer that only costs 40 quid actually work? Debbie Poyser goes sequencing on a shoestring.

MIDI Synchroniser

As tape synchronisation becomes an indispensable part of modern music making, the demand for cost-effective sync boxes grows... Simon Trask discovers that it takes more than Tipp-Ex on the tape to throw the MTS30 off the track.

A prolific American synthesist interviewed

MIDIMation VCA Automation System

Even if your music is fully MIDI-controlled, when it comes to mixing you're probably still relying on fingers and thumbs. But mix automation is coming within reach of the home recordist — MIDIMation offers 16 channels of VCA based level and mute automation for under £1,000. Simon Sanders investigates this new box of mix tricks.

'Allo John, Got A New Synth?

Featuring Ash Prema

For the Atari ST

No, it's not a lager. It's an economy version of Cubase with selected features only. Mind, you, that doesn't stop Ian Waugh from drooling at the mouth

Accepted as the synchronisation standard in the television and broadcast industry, this digital timecode is fast making inroads into the recording studio at all levels. Kendall Wrightson puts it all in perspective with the start of this series.

Passport Master Tracks Junior

Budget tight? Don't despair. This entry-level 64-track sequencing program from Passport has all the features you will need to start making your own music. Chris Kempster takes it for a spin.

the next generation

The second instalment of our guide to programming drums

Lights, Camera, Action!

Doepfer MAQ16/3 MIDI Analogue Sequencer

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

music programmes

Having problems connecting instruments together? Our new series on syncing should solve your problems. This month, John Harris looks at syncing gear to tape.

In part four of this series Bob O'Donnell deals with rhythm by linking a drum machine into the expanding MIDI system.