Chris Jenkins and Simon Trask examine the musical implications of Commodore’s 16-bit monster computer. Will it be simply a haven for the gamesters and the accountants, or will it find a place on the shelves of music shops?

The very latest microprocessor controlled delay, offering flange and vibrato among its many features.

Jay Chapman sets the scene for a regular series written to help you better understand the practicalities of life with the Musical Instrument Digital Interface.

A look at a selection of the new and innovative equipment on show at Europe's premier trade fair.

the birth of loud

Macintosh Midi Interface

For those with large MIDI setups, 16 channels just isn't enough; Opcode's Studio 5 offers the Mac muso up to 240 independent channels, plus MIDI patchbay and processing facilities. Mike Collins approves.

PART 2: David Mellor explores the sampling capabilities of the world’s most expensive musical instrument - the Synclavier.

The marriage between MIDI and SMPTE is now complete, but the burning question remains: how will musicians and engineers benefit from it? Chris Meyer traces the link from its source to its users.

Opcode Studio Vision

Integrated sequencing/d-t-d recording

MIDI Guitar Controller

Dave Lockwood gets down to some serious MIDI guitar histrionics...

Goldsmiths College Electronic Music Studio

Akai MX1000 Master Keyboard

Ease of programming and an optional plug-in piano sound board should ensure popularity for the Akai MX1000. Julian Colbeck explains why it makes all the difference.

Master Keyboard Controller

Two new master keyboards from Elka change Deborah Parisi's mind about the merits of silent keyboards.

Data Protection

If you work with computers, consider getting yourself some protection - before it's too late. Ben Duncan discusses damage limitation and risk management in the world of hi-tech recording...

Instruments and Equipment

Cassette Multitracker

When cassette multitrackers were new they said everybody should have one - now that there are machines like the X28 around, everybody can. Nigel Lord says small is beautiful.

A program to convert aftertouch data from a KX5 into controller data for a DX21, Crikey!

Cassette Multitracking Guide

A complete idiot's guide to buying a four-track cassette recorder, with hints on what features to look for, and a rundown of some of the most popular machines.

Marlin Spiked and loads more new goodies inside

PART 3: What is it like to sit down at the Synclavier - the world's most expensive instrument - and create a piece of music? David Mellor finds out and tells the whole story.