SOUND ON SOUND
This month: Universal Audio Boss CE1 • TC Electronic NonLin2 Stereo Effects Reverb
Note: this is a genuine product, not an April Fool hoax!
Part 1: The V-Synth repackaged Roland's groundbreaking Variphrase technology, creating a powerful new kind of sample-based synthesis. Now there's a rackmount V-Synth, and (as you'll discover in Part 1 of our two-part review) it's more powerful than the first...
We check out more sample libraries on the block: Analog Archive ***, Cycles ****, EZ Rollers **** and Notre Dame de Budapest *****
Cycling 74's Pluggo plug-in bundle continues to grow, and now encompasses over 100 effects, synths and modulation sources.
Looking for a new bass player? If you'd consider a software candidate, Steinberg's Virtual Bassist is now ready for audition...
FXpansion's software drum machine takes the 'pad sampler' concept pioneered by Akai's MPC range to new levels.
These high-spec passive monitors use well-established engineering principles to achieve a smooth and revealing sound.
Focusrite's first computer recording interface looks to cover all the bases with plentiful I/O, DSP effects and flexible monitoring arrangements (including surround).
As we all acquire more and more digital audio equipment, clock distribution becomes more of a key issue. This new distribution amplifier not only delivers multiple word-clock outputs, but also offers real-time monitoring of the accuracy of the source clock signal.
Two classic designs — the 610 preamp and LA2A compressor — are combined for the first time in this attractive new reissue.
Record loops and overdub in real time for lightning-quick track creation live or in the studio.
A range of impressive sonic claims are made for this unusual clamp design, but the physics behind it remains unclear (to me, at least).
Waves are the latest software company to launch their own hardware DSP accelerators. The APA 32 and 44-M can be linked over Ethernet to form massively powerful plug-in farms.
Altiverb was one of the first convolution reverbs to appear. Is it still the best?
Every major sequencer manufacturer now sells software synths for use with their recording applications, but MOTU's MX4 had not been out long before an updated version was announced. We find out whether v2 was worth the wait...
Although there are plenty of formal text books on the subject of writing and arranging for an orchestra, Paul Gilreath's 700-page book is not only very accessible, but also more likely to appeal to the average SOS reader.
Tracktion's designers have given the program a thorough overhaul and added some significant new features. But have they succeeded in retaining its freshness and ease of use?
Under review: Toontrack DFH Custome Vintage, Zero-G Analogue Sequencer Loops, Drumdrops Drops In The Bronx Vol. 1, Loopmasters Origin Raw Power.