SOUND ON SOUND
Tascam's Pocketstudio might not be quite what you'd call pocket-sized, but it does cram an MP3 digital recorder, a General MIDI sound module and comprehensive multi-effects into an impressively small space.
Sonic Reality's new Sampletank-format library comes with a free player.
**** 4/5 stars. We check out this pair of sampled bass guitar titles from respected German developers Yellow Tools.
Using the same improved technology seen within the 02R96, Yamaha's DM2000 provides an upgrade path for those who need more channels, even more hands-on control, and the purest in mic preamplification.
Korg give their creative real-time effects processor a face-lift, adding new algorithms, extra sampling power, and tempo-matching facilities.
Following on from the success of their Xtreme Analog library, Emagic have followed up with two more discs of EXS24 sonic ammunition in the form of Xtreme Digital and Xtreme Hip-Hop.
This new front end from Roland combines two high-quality analogue mic preamps with digital EQ, dynamics, and physical modelling effects. Plus, you can choose to control it from its front panel or from a computer via USB.
With their latest recording tool, Tascam aim to entice hobbyists away from their cassette multitrackers and onto their computers.
BLUE's newest hand-built condenser mic is their most affordable yet, and continues their tradition for striking styling. But does it sound as good as it looks?
3/5 stars. Zero-G continues its range of lower-priced 'Pure' titles with this collection of hip-hop samples of drum loops, scratch loops and turntable tricks...
Despite the obvious advantages of FireWire as an audio interface protocol, MOTU have had the market to themselves. Now, however, Metric Halo's Mobile I/O looks likely to threaten their dominance, offering true portability and built-in DSP mixing.
The sampling world, still reeling from the impact of Garritan Orchestral Strings, faces a full-scale onslaught from a fresh challenger.
As well as bringing 192kHz capability to the project-studio market, ESI Pro's new range of soundcards also features revolutionary drivers which allow the PC user new freedom to route audio between applications.
A new company adds another affordable effects unit to the market. But does it have what it takes to compete with the established big names?
***** Score = 5/5 stars. A choral library with a difference. VOTA aims to provide the composer with the samples needed to recreate the sound of a Hollywood choir.
After seven years, one of the most successful digital consoles has been completely overhauled, improving the sound quality and ergonomics, and catering for new high-resolution and surround-sound formats.
Digital hardware that models classic guitar amps has been big business in recent years, but in the software field Line 6's Amp Farm has had the market to itself. Now, however, IK's Amplitube looks set to provide some serious competition.
* Score = 1/5. Format: Audio. Over three hours of warm and punchy drumming well suited for modern pop, electronica or hip-hop...
A compressor and front end combining pedigree Drawmer performance with ease of use.
Applied Acoustic Systems, known best for their Tassman software synth, have now used their modelling technology to create an electric piano plug-in. But of course, theirs isn't the only one around...