No, this is not the rack-mounting version - it's a robust 14-track (at a push) multitrack recorder/mixer and computer-controlled patchbay rolled into one. Find out whether or not studio engineer Gareth Stuart reckons it could be a viable alternative to traditional reel-to-reel 16-track systems...

Sound Mastering

Ace Records' re-mastering engineers reveal the secrets of acoustic restoration

Ralf Hutter: This year's model

No doubting the Thomases from Elvis Costello and the Attractions.

Sampling Percussion System

Not just a sampling drum machine, more a solid state tape recorder! As things start to heat up at the top end of the drum machine market, David Mellor gives E-mu's successor to their popular SP-12 a thorough pounding.

Nobody has advanced the application of technology in music more than Peter Gabriel. His pioneering use of the Fairlight CMI helped popularise that instrument and give credence to sampling as a creative recording practice. Yet his music has never fallen prey to the technology trap - his latest album So remains a soulful collection of songs heavily reliant on technology but applied with subtlety. Ray Hammond talks to the great man about the album, new technology, Otis Redding, and his role as musician.

State of the hardware at AES, Young Adolf in Frankfurt

PUNISHMENT OF LUXURY and THE PASSENGERS

Rich rock stars? Who needs 'em? We bring you exclusive interviews with reality: Newcastle's Punishment Of Luxury, and The Passengers from London. Adam Sweet T'ing sees, hears and tells.

An in-depth interview with this multitalented musician/composer/producer who reveals the techniques used on his new LP and explains how to use the E-bow to best advantage

Meanwhile Richard tells me that Richard is a multi-instrumentalist and used to play with Gryphon. Course I knew that cos I've read the piece, but you haven't yet, have you?

With nearly 25 years in the music business, Cliff puts his music making into perspective.

Seven pages of new products revealed at this year's NAMM Expo in Chicago

John started his career as a tape op and worked his way up. He is now a respected engineer and producer as well as being a great supporter of ambisonic recording.

In a career spanning nearly 20 years, Gabriel has done everything from fronting Britain's best-known pomp rock band to manipulating ethnic music using modern technology. Dan Goldstein talks to a man of many talents.

Peavey DPM2 & DPM3SE Plus

Peavey's DPM3 synth now has a little brother in the DPM2, and the DPM3 itself has been upgraded with new features that increase its powers dramatically. Martin Russ looks at a dynamic duo.

Budget Beats

A beat on the cheap?

The month - this month

And what news there is. A special preview on the Frankfurt fair, lifting the veil on 1987's most important gear.

Phil Brammer goes Euro with a look at the Recording scene in Amsterdam with some surprising results

A complete history of record production accompanied by quotations and anecdotes from no fewer than 18 of the world's leading producers.

All You Need To Know About Making Your Own Records

Some musicians and bands decide to take their future success into their own hands, by putting money into producing their own records. Tony Batchelor and Sue Silutoe take the mystery out of making your own CD, vinyl or cassette release, from initial Session Tape to final product.

It Came From Outer Space

Could You Be A Guitar Tech?