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Sound Modules

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    Roland Super JV1080

    Expandable Synthesizer Module

    Roland's latest synth module boasts an impressive spec, including a 32-bit RISC processor, 64-voice polyphony and the ability to hoast up to four expansion cards simultaneously. Could it be the only synth you'll need? Dave Crombie finds out.

    Reviews Dec 1994
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    Control Synthesis Deep Bass Nine

    MIDI Analogue Monosynth

    Paul ward suits up, closes the airlock, engages warp drive and boldly goes where no SOS reviewer has gone before...

    Reviews Dec 1994
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    Emu Classic Keys

    Analogue Keyboard Sound Module

    Emu's Vintage Keys module offered a tempting selection of sounds sampled from the cream of desirable analogue synths. Now the same concept has been remodelled, with a lower price tag to appeal to a larger range of musicians. Gordon Reid assesses the Classic Keys.

    Reviews Dec 1994
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    Marion Systems MSR2

    Analogue Synthesizer

    Martin Russ gets his analogue teeth into the Marion Systems MSR2 mainframe and ASM analogue synth module.

    Reviews Dec 1994
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    Alesis S4 Quadrasynth

    64-voice Sound Module

    Dave Crombie gets to grips with Alesis' Tardis-like synth module and finds out that the inside is a lot bigger than the outside.

    Reviews Nov 1994
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    Oberheim OBMx

    Analogue MIDI Synth Module

    It's not only the distinctive looks of the legendary Oberheim synth that the designers of OBMx have borrowed; they've also incorporated its legendary sound quality into a '90s MIDI synth made in the true analogue mould. Dave Crombie wonders if it's too good to be true...

    Reviews Sep 1994
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    Roland SC88

    Super Sound Canvas

    Derek Johnson checks out the new flagship of the Sound Canvas range.

    Reviews Sep 1994
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    Emu Ultra Proteus

    Synthesizer Module

    Imagine a synth which is a cross between the best of Emu's Proteus and Proformance modules, and also includes the Z-plane filters of the Morpheus. No further need to imagine; it's here, in the form of the new UltraProteus. Julian Colbeck checks out this impressive multitimbral module.

    Reviews Aug 1994
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    Quasimidi Quasar

    Synth Module

    Is it an analogue synth? Is it an FM synth? Is it an S+S or even an additive synth? Quasimidi claim that their new Quasar module is all of these. Paul Ward checks out the hype and the reality, and is pleasantly surprised.

    Reviews Aug 1994
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    Novation BassStation

    Analogue Bass Synth

    Given the scarcity and high prices of Roland's seriously trendy TB303 Bassline, the field has been wide open for enterprising manufacturers to fill the demand for a cheap and funky bass synth. Novation's BassStation is but the first of three contenders.

    Reviews Jul 1994
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    Oberheim Matrix 1000

    Analogue Synth Module

    The Oberheim Matrix 1000 analogue synth module recently enjoyed a relaunch, resplendent in a new cream livery. Self-confessed Matrix 1000 owner Paul White extols its virtues and exposes its vices.

    Reviews Jun 1994
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    Roland SC50

    General MIDI Sound Module

    Derek Johnson takes a look at a new addition to the still-growing Sound Canvas family.

    Reviews May 1994
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    Emu Proteus FX

    Sound Module & Onboard Effects

    The Proteus series of sound modules have gained a reputation for being all things to all musicians — but they've never had on-board effects. The newest addition to the family takes care of that. Nigel Humberstone checks it out.

    Reviews May 1994
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    Roland GR09

    Guitar Synth

    Have Roland finally come up with a more affordable MIDI guitar for the masses? Paul White obviously thinks so.

    Reviews May 1994
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    Kurzweil Micro Piano

    Sampled Piano Sound Module

    The legendary Kurzweil piano sound is now available in a smaller box and with a lower price tag than ever before - though in the UK it's still significantly more expensive than competing piano modules from other manufacturers. Is it worth the price premium? Derek Johnson finds out.

    Reviews Apr 1994
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    Yamaha TG300

    General MIDI Tone Generator

    A new shape? A large LCD? Martin Russ finds out what Yamaha are up to with their latest expander, which aims to give GM compatibility ans a whole lot more...

    Reviews Mar 1994
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    GEM S2R

    Rackmounting Synth Module

    GEM have upgraded, expanded and enhanced their S2 keyboard synth and crammed it into a 3U module. Devoted S2 owner Mike Simmons discovers what he might be missing out on...

    Reviews Mar 1994
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    Korg X3R

    Workstation Synth Module

    Julian Colbeck sizes up the new offering from the prolific Korg camp, the latest to use the company's long-running A12 synthesis system. Is it just the same old stuff in the new box, or does the X3R have enough Unique Selling Points to justify its existence?

    Reviews Feb 1994
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    Studio Electronics SE1

    Analogue MIDI Monosynth

    In an age of ever-growing polyphony, Studio Electronics, best known for their vintage synth rebuilds, have returned to first principles — to create the first analogue monosynth for almost a decade. Minimoog owner Nick Magnus finds out how this MIDI-equipped modern classic measures up to its vintage forbears.

    Reviews Jan 1994
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    EMS VCS3 synthesizer.

    EMS VCS3 [Retrozone]

    Analogue Synthesizer

    Synthesist Ian Boddy steps back in time to report on the classic British sound machine, regularly found haunting the electronic music departments of many a university, and a recent addition to the author's own sonic armoury.

    Reviews Jan 1994
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