SOUND ON SOUND
The Matrix K is a low-cost, no-frills computer audio interface designed to do its job simply and efficiently.
The reputation of Sequential Circuits is up there with the likes of Moog and ARP, but is the first Prophet in 20 years a worthy addition to that heritage or a cash-in on former glories?
These versatile large-diaphragm mics offer great performance on a budget.
Just when you think you've seen it all, Yamaha come straight at you out of left field with an instrument unlike any other. But is the Tenori-On a musical revolution in the making or a white (flashing) elephant?
This classy piece of kit boasts the quality and flexibility of high-end algorithmic reverbs, but can also deliver convolution-like realism.
• Ueberschall Groove Shadow Elastik • Nine Volt Audio Textural Rex • Sample Logic The Elements
Until now, there has been no ultra-portable hardware option for Pro Tools users who want to edit and mix on the go. The M Box 2 Micro seeks to fill that gap.
Until now, huge file sizes and the need for dedicated equipment have prevented the distribution of surround mixes over the Internet. That could be about to change...
APIs renowned hardware processors have gone virtual...
You cant mix in surround on Pro Tools without shelling out for an HD rig. Or can you?
We test a selection of impressive and affordable Windows mastering tools from NuGen Audio.
If you dream of the ultimate sampled drum kit, and you have a cutting-edge computer to run it, Mixosauruss Kit A might be your Holy Grail.
Yamahas Vocaloid technology has now been upgraded to version 2 and Sweet Ann, from PowerFX, is the first virtual singer based on the new release. So just how much further forward have Yamaha moved their intriguing vocal synthesis technology?
It's been a long time coming, but has the latest version of Steinberg's Groove Agent been worth waiting for?
Nowadays, we expect software to be able to change the tempo of recorded audio, but the latest version of Pro Tools integrates this functionality in a new and impressive fashion.
• Zero-G Carnival Drums: The Spirit of Brazil • Best Service Drums Overkill
It's over five years since Native Instruments released the original version of their flagship soft sampler, and its third incarnation takes the Kontakt concept even further, with a streamlined user interface, a new waveform editor and a massive sample library.
Behringer offer highly affordable excitement in the shape of two new sub-£100 rack processors.
If recording a real piano isn't for you, there's no shortage of very convincing software alternatives.