Just weeks before it makes its European debut, Dan Goldstein previews the small mixing console that could change the way we think about signal processing, sequencing, and recording as a whole.

Intended to help you find your way around MIDI, Midia forms part of C-Lab's educational ST software programme. Ian Waugh finds it indispensable as a MIDI monitor.

More of the mysteries of MIDI dispelled, as Bob O'Donnell puts MIDI plug into MIDI socket and connects controller to expander. Part two of this new series.

One of the most refreshing synths of '89 was Ensoniq's VFX, but how does it fare with a new keyboard, disk drive and a powerful onboard sequencer? David Bradwell looks at Ensoniq's workstation.

The amazing musical instrument interface

The Phase Distortion people breathe new life into the remote strap-on MIDI controller. Simon Trask wonders if up front keyboard-playing will catch on this time.

What you can get from a MIDI Implementation Sheet, apart from total bafflement.

Reading MIDI Implementation Charts

In spite of MIDI's promise of compatibility between hi-tech musical equipment, few of us have found this to be the case. Vic Lennard takes his second look at MIDI Implementation charts and how they can solve your MIDI problems.

Digital Multitrack Sequencer

The latest in Yamaha's family of sequencers returns to cassette storage, but offers eight tracks with features not even found on the prestigious QX1. Simon Trask puts it through its paces.

The start of another series, in which Chris Meyer reveals just how useful the new MIDI Sample Dump Standard can be in everyday applications.

Outboard signal processors have been sporting MIDI sockets on their rear panels for some time now, but just what can MIDI do for fx and how can you best use it? Vic Lennard patches into processing.

Multi-Timbral Expander

Hot foot from the BMF, hard-working Martin Russ brings us his review of this innocent-looking multitimbral LA expander which packs many of the features of Roland's D-50 synthesizer, including onboard digital reverb, but with the added bonus of 28 sampled drum sounds!

AES Show Report

Forthcoming new products from the hi-tech music recording field.

Software for the Atari ST

A budget MIDI sequencing package for the Atari ST (what isn't?). Our own St discovers that a fraction of the price doesn't necessarily mean a fraction of the facilities - especially when you're talking computer software.

A new programming aid for the Kawai R100 takes the form of DrumDroid software for the Atari ST. Scott Gershin becomes a "mouse drummer".

Just as it was about to fade from popular memory, Kawai's PCM/DC synthesis is revived in the new Spectra synth. Ian Waugh asks if it's been missed or simply missing.

XRI Systems

This low-cost unit from XRI brings the power of true timecode synchronisation to the masses. Paul Ireson checks it out.

Digital Programmable Algorithm Synthesiser

Sample Librarian and Manager

An open and shut case for sample librarians

Software for the Atari ST

The latest in Dr T's Caged Artist series of editors is an Atari ST program for Roland's popular D110 synthesis mdule. Vic Lennard takes his L/A the easy way.

Another piece of the MIDI puzzle

Songwriter/musician Nick Graham gets to grips with the MC500

If you’re tired of playing keyboards and want a more imaginative way to create music, then this mouse-driven MIDI controller may prove an ideal alternative. Martin Russ investigates.

In an age when most MIDI sequencers seem to come on floppy disk, Alesis hits the market with their new hardware sequencer, the MMT-8. It doesn't boast a video monitor or multi-mega tracks, so can it compete with the omnipresent beige box? David Mellor yearns to learn.

We examine Roland's MPU 401 Intelligent Interface that took over two years to develop, to discover whether this disc-based sequencing system was worth waiting for.