SOUND ON SOUND
If you're still using pre-MIDI synths, the chances are you'll already be using a Kenton converter to interface them with your more modern MIDI gear. We check out this upgrade to the faithful Pro Solo...
East West and Quantum Leap's Symphonic Orchestra was one of the largest orchestral libraries ever released, at 19 DVDs for the full edition. However, it still wasn't enough for some people — so East West have released this 18-disc expander set...
This compact desk benefits from built-in effects, sturdy construction and low noise. Does it measure up to the Mackie name?
When is an iMac not an iMac, but still an iMac? When it's a new model featuring an Intel processor. We test Apple's first Intel-based Mac and see what the future holds for Mac musicians and audio engineers.
Given its more than respectable range of facilities and 24-bit/96kHz operation, the low price of this feedback processor seems far too good to be true. We find out whether it is...
How many times have you wished you had a magic wireless link from your desk to the stage? At some venues it can be a real problem trying to find a route for speaker cables that does not cross public access areas or look unsightly, but now the Liberty system could provide the answer...
Take Blue Chip's advanced Axon MIDI guitar system, bundle it with new editing software and a Terratec soundcard, and you have the Axon AX100. We strum its sounds and test its triggering...
This innovative new plug-in allows Pro Tools users to record each other over the Internet, in real time.
These two multi-pattern valve (tube) mics are contrasted with each other in terms of both sound and design cosmetics.
Zero G Nostalgia: Kompakt Instrument • Big Fish Audio Soul City: Multi-format • Zero G Vocal Forge: Intakt Instrument
General MIDI synths are rarely glamorous, but there's no reason why they should not sound as good as more professional alternatives — that, at least, is the thinking behind NI's Bandstand soft synth.
PSP's latest plug-in covers the spectrum from vintage tape-echo emulation to serious weirdness.
This sleek rackmount Compact Flash-based recorder makes an ideal recording 'scratch pad', and files can also be imported into your DAW when things get more serious.
Some mic preamps are renowned for their flattery of the recorded signal, but this high-spec single-channel unit proudly aspires to cleanliness and neutrality, translating the character of your performances and microphones with the utmost fidelity.
These new condenser and dynamic microphones from the EVBlue range boast classy retro styling but how do they sound?
• Digitech EX7 Expression Factory • Electro-Harmonix 2880 Super Multitrack Looper • Technique: 'Re-amping' electric guitars
Boasting a serious sound at a very affordable price point, these new monitors should win many friends.
Creamware's Minimax ASB (the company's hardware recreation of the Minimoog) won over the critics — can they repeat the winning ASB formula with Sequential Circuits' Prophet 5 synth? Synth wizard Dave Stewart is your guide...
In these days of fast, flexible computers and powerful virtual instruments, has the hardware workstation synth had its day? Alesis's Fusion mounts the case for the defence, offering four synthesis types, sampling, sequencing and hard disk recording — for under £1000.
Manufacturers have sought to provide expressive computer-based simulations of real instruments by releasing ever larger and more detailed sample libraries. But whatever happened to the idea of modelling instruments using synthesis techniques? Arturia haven't forgotten...