Hugh Padgham takes us behind the scenes to explain the tricks and techniques used in the recording and mixing of Phil Collins' 'In the Air Tonight'.

Computer Music System

Noel Williams compares Hybrid Technology's latest BBC music add-on to its predecessor, the Music 500. Is it the friendlier beast its designers claim it to be?

A budget spring reverb from JHS.

DDA Interface Console

Yet another stratospheric studio name finds its way into the more modest recording setup; Paul White appreciates DDA's design for mixing.

Wilf Smarties kicks off our regular look at new sample CD releases.

The third instalment of our column devoted entirely to Steinberg software, written and compiled exclusively for SOS by Steinberg's experts.

Introduction To PA

This comprehensive series starts by looking at the basic components of a mobile PA system.

Modifying The Midiverb

Phil 'D.I.Y., Cap'n, but the engines canna take it' Walsh with a mod to turn your Midiverb into a great live tool

A New Microphone Range from Shure

Stephen Duffy & Stephen Street

cocksure ex-tintin ex-duran talks tech

Although Michael Nyman's name and music became known through Peter Greenaway's extraordinary films, Prospero's Books may see not just the peak but also the end of their creative partnership. But Nyman has other strings to his bow, as Mark J. Prendergast discovers.

Paul Williams adds yet another module to the modular effects rack.

The Input Channel

A guided tour through a typical in-line channel strip.

SynthCheck

A Fairlight small enough to slip into your 501's? Well, nearly. Jim Betteridge warms to Casio's supercheap sampler

Give your old MM desk a new lease of life as a recording mixer with a few simple mods.

Allen & Heath Brenell

Paul White

Tascam's compact and versatile new M1516 desk is aimed squarely at the semi-pro 8-track market. The not-so compact but even more versatile Dave Lockwood checks it out.

Miking Tips

Sampling: Is it legal? Is it art? Tim Goodyer raises some of the issues that will shape tomorrow's music.

A Series By Warren Cann.

Long sample times and astounding sound quality characterise Bel's range of mid-price delay units. But as Ian Waugh discovers, there are some important omissions, too.