Electronic Musician January 87
Roland Users Group December 87
Home & Studio Recording July 88
Home & Studio Recording August 88
Electronic Musician September 88
Electronic Musician December 88
Electronic Musician February 89
Keyboard Magazine September 89
Home & Studio Recording October 89
Home & Studio Recording November 89
Home & Studio Recording July 90
Home & Studio Recording August 90
Keyboard Magazine September 90
Home & Studio Recording September 90
Home & Studio Recording October 90
Home & Studio Recording November 90
Keyboard Magazine Guid December 90
Electronic Musician January 91
Home & Studio Recording January 91
Home & Studio Recording February 91
Home & Studio Recording March 91
Home & Studio Recording April 91
Home & Studio Recording May 91
Home & Studio Recording June 91
Keyboard Magazine September 91
Home & Studio Recording September 91
Home & Studio Recording October 91
Home & Studio Recording November 91
Electronic Musician December 91
Keyboard Magazine September 92
Home & Studio Recording January 93
Home & Studio Recording May 93
Keyboard Magazine September 95
Keyboard Magazine September 96
Roland Users Group September 96
Keyboard Magazine September 97
Future Music Special November 97
Electronic Musician December 97
Keyboard Magazine September 98
Keyboard Magazine September 99
Keyboard Magazine September 00
Keyboard Magazine September 01
Keyboard Magazine September 03
Introduction
All you need is the right combination to unlock the world of sounds hidden behind the front panel of your synthesizer. The secret is in the art of programming, and the answers to your burning questions on the subject are in these pages.
Beginning Programming
What is programming? What is a synthesizer? How do you keep from losing the sounds you've created? And what does it all mean, anyway?
A Primer On Patches
You're staring at your synthesizer's front panel and thinking, "Trumpet." What now? Try following our guidelines on how to fashion the most important imitative tone colors.
Meet The Programmers
The presets you hear on your new synthesizer were probably devised by one of these sleight-of-ear maestros. Six of the top company pro- grammers discuss their factory patches and their creative philosophies.
Tips From The Pros
They've invented sounds for falling snow, ping-pong balls under pigeon wings, and boredom, so they know their way around a synthesizer panel. Michael Boddicker, Suzanne Ciani, Ed Walsh, and Alan Howarth talk about their strangest studio assignments and share a few programming tricks.
Additive Synthesis
If you prefer creating your own sounds from scratch rather than from factory programs, and if you have an instrument with stacks of sine waves, additive synthesis may be for you. Wendy Carlos has words of wisdom and encouragement for those who choose this challenging path.
Drum Machine Techniques
Bill Cobham hip-hops through techno-pop and breakdance rhythm patterns.
Keyboard Journal
Is it Bix or is it Venuti? Dick Hyman Keyboard Report
ponders the enigmatic "Betcha I Getcha."
Questions
Rock nostalgists launch a Vox hunt
The Piano Technician
Larry Fine reveals that much of your piano's future may rest on its legs.
Rock Technique
Chops still have a place in the rock keyboard world, argues Tom Coster, who shows how you can build yours without lapsing into a Czerny-in-duced coma.
Keyboard Basics
Before resorting to fists and bricks, follow Greg Armbruster's advice and think through your fingering.
Keyboard Report You've heard the rumors. Now hear the truth about the Kurzweil 250.
Keyboard Report Low-budget sampling becomes a reality with the Ensoniq Mirage.
Records
Jim Aikin unplugs his turntable, hangs up his stylus, and muses on the
state of the art.
Spec Sheet
Yamaha keyboards, Passport MIDI software, and lots more new gear.
PROFILE
Events: Keyboards steal the show at the Grammys.
On Stage: On the road with Madonna.
Keyboard News: A revised ELP plots its return.
Modular Synthesis Lives On
It's not digital, it doesn't sample, it may even be monophonic. But you can still do things on it that will fry the ICs on the most advanced systems.
Programming The DX7
The Yamaha DX7 forced synthesists throughout the world to take a new approach to creating sounds. Bo Tomlyn, a freelance programmer and Yamaha clinician, offers his insights into the unusual parameters of programming by algorithms.
How Do You Rate?
A special Keyboard quiz to test your mettle as a programmer.
For Further Reading
For those who still want more, a list of books, articles, and Keyboard columns to fill you in on how to get what you want from your synth.
SOUNDPAGE
Boddicker In Action: 'The Magic Egg'
For a virtuoso programmer like Michael Boddicker, the sky's the limit.
Michael describes how he worked his own brand of magic on the score to a new animated film, an excerpt from which appears on this month's Soundpage
A Nation And Its Music
Japan's emergence as an economic and industrial power has stunned the postwar world, but the next Japanese wave may hit in the world of music. The scene there is alive: Nearly every child is thoroughly trained on electronic and acoustic keyboards. Music technicians are working full-time on revolu- tionary new synthesizer designs. Gifted young musicians are studying, mastering, and moving beyond every modern musical style. The talent pool is enormous, and it's growing. Get ready, America. This is Japan, 1985.
Isao Tomita
It's been more than ten years since Tomita released Snowflakes Are Dancing, and still he stands at the pinnacle of electronic romanticism. But he hasn't been resting there; recently he returned to the arena of live performance, and began applying his synthesizer skills to an exploration of his Japanese roots. Tomita describes his historic concert at Ars Electronica, and reflects on the state of modern synthesis, in this exclusive interview.
The Legacy Of Yellow Magic Orchestra
YMO nearly shattered the barriers separating Japanese musicians from Western audiences. Though they split up at the peak of their powers almost two years ago, they still inspire legions of followers through their records and through the ongoing innovations of their alumni. Ryuichi Sakamoto and Haruomi Hosono, the duo keyboard stars behind YMO, discuss their current projects, including Hosono's album of video game music and Sakamoto's recent collaboration with Thomas Dolby.
Classical Pianist Minoru Nojima
A revealing examination of the strengths and weaknesses of contemporary Japanese piano performance.
Jazz Veteran Masaru Imada
The birth and blossoming of Japan's jazz scene, as seen from the inside.
Avant-Garde Pioneer Yosuke Yamashita
An iconoclastic jazz innovator ponders the tenuous ties between Japanese and Western music.
Fiery Fusion Whiz Minoru Mukaiya
Casiopea's keyboard whiz tempers jazz and rock with a Japanese approach to Giveaway
melody.
Equipment
Mind Over MIDI
Channel switching, the treacherous status byte, and MIDI to the Mac.
Modifications & Maintenance
Is your synthesizer an elephant? If not, let Jim Cooper show you how to improve its memory.
Computers For Keyboardists
Tips from Steve Leonard on how to find the right computer for your musical needs.
Keyboard Report A new synthesizer and drum ma- chine the Sequential Multi-Trak & Tom.
Keyboard Report Score-printing and sequencing soft- ware from Mark of the Unicorn, Per- sonal Composer, and Passport De- signs.
Keyboard Report Echo and ambience enhancement from the Quantec QRS/L Room Simulator.
Spec Sheet
Wrap up your keyboard in a clear plastic bag and smile, smile, smile.
Milcho Leviev
Perfect your two-handed legato with this free-flowing exercise.
Bill Cobham
Break out of the backbeat prison with these new accent patterns for drum machines.
Don Muro
The outer limits of pitch modulation.
Guest Editorial
Sorry, but your computer will never be able to play "Heart And Soul."
In Review
The latest books, records, and sheet music.
Session Ace Yasuhiko Fukuda
Life on the run as the top studio keyboard player in Tokyo.
Meet The Manufacturers
Their technological achievements are familiar to keyboardists throughout Profile
the world, but their planning and production methods still seem a mystery to Western observers. In special interviews with Yamaha's crack design team and Roland's technician/president, Keyboard goes to the top to discover how MIDI, FM, and team-oriented R&D have affected the booming Japanese synthesizer industry.
PROFILE
Onstage: Building the perfect tour with Don Henley.
Inside Tracks: Amy Grant lets her guard down.
People: Claude Schnell mines metal with Dio.
SOUNDPAGE
Tomita's "Cranes In Their Nest"
Synthesizer meets shakuhachi in Tomita's rendition of a traditional Japanese tune, recorded live at the 1984 Ars Electronica festival.
The Piano's Last Stand
Most keyboardists began on the piano, but in contemporary music the instrument may be on its last legs. Will strings and hammers be replaced by synthesis and sampling? A panel of experts, including John Chowning, Ray Kurzweil, and John Steinway, discuss the survival of the acoustic piano in an electronic world.
Soundpage
Dave Stewart & Barbara Gaskin: "Henry & James"
An exciting duo performance, unreleased in the U.S., featuring ex-National Health keyboardist Stewart and vocalist Gaskin, with a revamped intro prepared especially for Keyboard.
Features
Digital Sampling Instruments
Keyboard players are lining up for a seat on the sampling bandwagon. But before setting off for the promised land of real-world sound manipulation, make sure you understand the hidden problems of sampling, and the strengths and limitations of the instruments you'll be using.
Alan Clark & Guy Fletcher of Dire Straits
Formerly an all-guitar band, Dire Straits hit the top of the charts again after adding two top-notch keyboard players. Clark and Fletcher unveil the secrets behind the synthesized textures on Brothers In Arms.
Kenny Kirkland: Keyboards With Sting
He plugs in for some powerful rocking with Sting, probes the frontiers of jazz piano with Wynton Marsalis, and dreams of a true electronic/jazz fusion. Yet this modest virtuoso still considers himself a novice.
Poll Winners
You picked 'em. Now check out the top players of 1985.
Keyboard Index
A complete listing of all the articles, columns, and workshops that ran in Keyboard during 1985.
PROFILE
Looking Forward: Electronic bulletin boards are the new music info interface.
People: Phil Collins' alumnus Peter Robinson is with The Insiders.
People: Frederic Rzewski on improvising Beethoven cadenzas and other outrages.
Keyboard News: Synclavier plants on Appel seed.
Nick Rhodes
Being a glamorous pop star isn't always enough, so Duran Duran's keyboard- ist broke out of the superstar shell and stretched his wings with Arcadia. In this exclusive interview, Rhodes discusses his work on So Red The Rose, describes his encounter with Herbie Hancock, and extols the magic of sampling.
Soundpage
Keyboard Competition Winners
It was a photo finish, so "God's Greatest Gift," by electronic composer Alain Thibault, and an excerpt from American Sonata by pianist Jeffrey Chappell share first prize in our first Soundpage Competition.
Features
Jazz Solo Transcription: "Phantom Of The City"
A note-for-note excursion through a new tune by jazz pianist George Cables, with the performer's own comments and analysis.
Do-It-Yourself Software
Here's a contemporary approach to reproducing tunings of the past and inventing intonation systems for your future, using MIDI, an IBM PC, and a synthesizer.
A Visit To Forbidden Planet
In 1955 Louis and Bebe Barron blew the lid off the movie soundtrack world by creating the first totally electronic film score. As this interview demonstrates, their approach to electronic music is just as unorthodox today as it was thirty
years ago.
Harold Budd
This self-described "reluctant keyboardist" is best known for his contemplative collaborations with Brian Eno. All he asks is that you wake up and listen to his remarkable solo projects too.
Patches Of The Month
New patches for the Roland JX-8P, Yamaha DX7, Korg Poly-800, and Casio's CZ series.
Software For Musicians
Are you ready to design your own music software? Steve De Furia thinks you are.
On Synthesizers
Bob Moog offers three more quick checks on digital sampling machine performance.
The Piano Technician Sometime's it's the factory's last-min- ute touches that make the difference, as Larry Fine reveals.
Computers For Keyboardists
Steve Leonard on what makes your computer compute.
Digital Sampling You say you want high resolution? Terry Fryer explains why you should.
Mind Over MIDI Jim Cooper maneuvers through the MIDI command structure.
Systems & Applications
Steve De Furia sheds new light on current technology with some old pitch-bend techniques.
In The Studio
Advice from Bobby Nathan on how to determine which keyboard mixer works best for you.
Keyboard Report The Forte MIDI-Mod plugs pianos into the electronic age.
Keyboard Report The Commodore Amiga is a heavy hitting hardware package.
Keyboard Report MIDI meets its computer match in Atari's 520ST and 1040ST.
Keyboard Report Keyboard disentangles three new MIDI switchers from J.L. Cooper, Kamlet, and Zaphod.
Keyboard Report In the ambience arena, there's plenty of room for the Lexicon PCM 70, Roland SRV-2000, and Yamaha REV7.
Keyboard Report Modular design is the cornerstone for Sight & Sound's Ensemble MIDI sequencer software.
PROFILE
Inside Tracks: Barbra Streisand's synthesized rendition of "Somewhere."
Soundtrack: Merl Saunders moves into The Twilight Zone.
People: Mahavishnu Orchestra returns, with Mitchel Forman at the keys.
Keyboard News: Dave Brubeck goes back to dance gigs.
PRIVATE LESSONS
Guy Wuellner Discover the secrets of rhythmic accuracy.
Richie Beirach The unobtrusive art of jazz piano comping.
David Burge A close look at Debussy's harmonic sleight-of-hand in "Reflets dans l'eau."
Ruth Slenczynska The lyrical side of Prokofiev emerges in "Vision Fugitive XVI."
Dave Stewart How the ancients wrote and played in simultaneous contrasting time signatures.
The Shape Of Things To Come
An extended feature this month to incorporate many of the new products shown at NAMM and the Frankfurt Music Fair.
Synclavier Programmer
Jonathan Sorrell is one of a handful of session programmers working with the world's most sophisticated sampling keyboard - the Synclavier. Paul Gilby discovers how it came about.
Take Two: Alesis XTC & MIDIVERB
A dual review: Paul Gilby scrutinises the world's cheapest MIDI controlled stereo digital reverb, the MIDIVERB, whilst Dave Lockwood tastes the aural delights of its upmarket stablemate - the XTC.
The Humaniser
lan Gilby looks at how you can programme that 'human feel' into your drum patterns or sequences using another clever device from the Bokse company - the MIDI Humaniser.
Layering Sound Part 4: Multi-sampling & Overdubbing.
Keyboard programmer Paul Wiffen draws to a close his popular series on the merits of sampling techniques with a close look at two means of extending your sample playback range.
Matrix Magic
lan Gilby reviews a truly ingenious programmable patchbay that takes all the hard work out of MIDI equipment routing in the studio - the Sycologic M16 MIDI Matrix.
GO WEST Producer: Gary Stevenson
The phenomenal rise to success of Gary Stevenson came about through his dynamic production work on the first Go West album. Ralph Denyer extracts the details of the saga and discovers what Gary has planned for the future.
Ensoniq Mirage Multi-Sampler
Manufacturers of keyboard samplers are now turning their attentions to the studio market by offering enhanced rack-mount versions of their products. Mark Jenkins waited anxiously at Heathrow for the first device to hit our shores - the budget-priced, 8-voice multi-sampler from Ensoniq. Read his report.
Soundtracs MR Mixer
Multiple output devices like drum machines and sequencers are placing new demands on mixer manufacturers to come up with increased input channel desks. One of the first to respond are Soundtracs with a new range of recording consoles. Dave Lockwood tries out the 24/8/2/model.
Talking MIDI
Jay Chapman delves deep into the murky waters of MIDI's often ignored Mono Mode in pursuit of multi-timbral expression !
Doctor! Doctor!
Dr.T's MIDI Sequencer software for the Commodore 64 has been much applauded in the USA for its versatile real-time and step- time operation. Now that it's available on prescription in the UK, we asked software surgeon Ian Waugh for his diagnosis...
Dial-A-Dream
If you're not an FM fan, but are looking for a low-cost polysynth that can double as a MIDI
expander, you won't need to look further than Roland's new Alpha Juno-1 according to Mark Jenkins.
SOUND ON VISION Using Timecodes
Part 2 of our series finds Francis Rumsey exploring timecode standards and the use of timecode with video.
Music & Pictures
We've now reached Part 4 where Robin Lumley surveys the technology of syncing sound and vision.
Ivo Pogorelich
He's taken on Horowitz, defied critics, ignored tradition, and driven audiences to fever pitch. Who would have thought that the music and opinions of one 28-year-old Yugoslavian classical pianist could cause such a furor?
Soundpage
Ralph Grierson
L.A.'s top studio pianist in a landmark synthesizer performance.
Features
Sequencer Roundtable
Ten software designers on the triumphs and compromises of programming and marketing.
David Frank
The System's techno-wiz applies his magic touch to albums from the likes of Phil Collins, Chaka Khan, and many others.
Programming the Oberheim Xpander
Dozens of creative hints on how to unleash this misunderstood instrument.
Wally Badarou
Covering the spectrum from Talking Heads to Spider Woman.
Profile
Inside Tracks: New age from a new label.
Events: Silicon Valley Festival Of Electronic Arts.
Places: PASS offers open season on synthesizers in New York.
Keyboard News: Musical furniture and more.
Equipment
Patches Of The Month
The latest DX and CZ patches.
Systems & Applications
Steve De Furia offers envelope experiments for the DX.
The Piano Technician
Larry Fine explains how to spot a wolf in piano dealer's clothing.
Computers For Keyboardists
Steve Leonard tells you how to talk to your Commodore 64 MIDI interface.
Mind Over MIDI
Jim Cooper offers easy electronic projects for MIDI, and answers reader questions.
Digital Sampling Terry Fryer tells you how to keep your samples clean and odor-free.
PRIVATE LESSONS
Ruth Slenczynska First in a series of polyrhythmic exercises.
Dave Stewart Using synthesizers effectively as bass instruments.
David Burge Book 2 of Debussy's Preludes.
Software For Musicians
Steve De Furia continues his discus- sion on operations and assignment
statements.
Keyboard Report The Casio RZ-1 sampling drum machine.
Keyboard Report Master Tracks sequencing software from Passport.
Keyboard Report MIDI merge devices from J.L. Cooper, Kamlet, and Harmony Systems.
Keyboard Report The Korg DVP-1 digital voice processor.
Keyboard Report The Yamaha SPX90 digital effects processor.
Keyboard Report Performer Macintosh sequencing software from Mark Of The Unicorn.
The Shape Of Things To Come
A look at what's new in the recording and hi-tech equipment fields including Applied Microsystem's new synchroniser, Oberheim's rack-mount Matrix-6 expander and more...
Bill Nelson
Contractual hassles have kept musician/producer Bill Nelson hopping from one record label to another since the demise of Be-Bop Deluxe, yet he has still managed to record some exemplary albums using the facility of his 16-track home studio. Ian Gilby finds out how he put his new album together.
Totally Musical
Martin Russ reviews the superbly professional Southworth 'Total Music' software recorder for the Apple Macintosh computer.
AHB Keymix
Who wants a programmable modular mixer and three-band sweep EQ system that offers full MIDI control of channel routing/muting and all fits neatly into a 19-inch rack? "I do!"
Prophet VS...
...'The first genuinely NEW keyboard since the DX7' proclaims our review. Mixing four different waveforms together in a technique christened 'vector synthesis', Sequential's new baby can create some stunningly different synth sounds. Could it be what the market's looking for? Mark Jenkins reports.
Patching Up
lan Gilby reckons that before long every studio will have a MIDI patchbay as well as an audio one and the low-cost ME30P Programmable MIDI Patchbay from Akai could well be it.
Paul Hardcastle- When The Tape Runs Out
Intrepid reporter/cameraman Ralph Denyer ventures into the wild suburban jungle of East London to capture the rarely heard thoughts of this lesser-spotted songbird and re-mix producer who has recently taken delivery of his very own Synclavier system.
Thinking Of Going 24-Track?
If your studio's musical output is largely synthetic in nature and you are considering an increase in tracks, then Steinberg Research's Pro-24 recording software for the Atari 520ST micro could prove a better option than a conventional tape recorder. Tony Hastings tells why.
Yamaha MIDI Event Processor
This new multi-function unit lets you physically access and modify hex code MIDI signals amongst other things. Jay Chapman discovers it may be rather more useful than most would think.
Akai S900 Sampler
Akai's first foray into the sampling market, the S612, was a resounding success. Their new sampling system, aimed more at studios, is considerably more advanced yet still a respectable price. Eventually it will incorporate a multitrack event recorder and harmonic synthesis module, but just released is the first system component-the S900 rack-mount sampler. Mark Jenkins checks it out.
Inside Views
The first in a new series that takes a behind the scenes look at companies specialising in the development of hi-tech music and recording products. This month Tony Hastings catches the nightboat to Hamburg to report on MIDI software designers Steinberg Research.
Talking MIDI
Part 7. In this penultimate episode Jay Chapman explains the usefulness of MIDI's all-important
System Exclusive messages.
Ramsa Microphones
Ramsa may not be a familiar name in the pro microphone world just yet, but engineer Dave Lockwood reckons they will be judging by their latest range of miniature electrets which includes both a headset and a mic that can handle an SPL of 158dB!
The Shape Of Things To Come
Another selection of brand new products about to be launched in this country.
Ensoniq Sampled Piano
Mark Jenkins investigates the very latest attempt at replacing the Steinway Grand to come from the company that has made sampling its forte!
The Celtic Macintosh
Part 1. American, Paul D. Lehrman, documents how he recently recorded an album of synthesized Irish music entirely on an Apple Macintosh computer using the Southworth Music Systems 'Total Music' software.
Tape Line-Up
Know anything about bias, test- tones or calibration? If you use a tape recorder then you should! In the first of two parts, David Mellor explains the need for tape recorder line-up procedures and unravels the mystery behind this arcane science which can have a profound affect on the quality of your recordings.
Seck 1282 Mixer
Having hit upon the right formula with their successful 1882 mixer, Seck have now introduced a cut- price 1282 version aimed more at the needs of the 8-track user. Paul Gilby monitored its performance.
Tom Hidley - Studio Designer
Over a 25 year period, Tom Hidley has designed and built more than 400 of the world's top recording studios. Recognised as an undisputed 'master' of his craft, his acoustic design concepts have changed the face of studios and the music that is made within their walls. In a rare interview, he talks openly about his design philosophy and his most current 'ground-breaking' project to Paul Gilby.
Ibanez Dual Digital Reverb
Ibanez are late entrants to the fast- moving field of digital reverb products, but their new SDR1000 unit has something different about it that caught the eye of reviewer Mark Jenkins. Read the review to find out what...
Guy Fletcher: Dire Straits
Although still very young, keyboard player Guy Fletcher has a long list of album/single credits already under his belt for such artists as Bryan Ferry, Roxy Music, Tina Turner, Mick Jagger and Dire Straits. Paul Gilby finds out how Guy landed such plum roles and learns more about the way Dire Straits make use of music technology in their recording.
Stars & Chains
Martin Russ outlines the practical benefits that using a Star Network can bring to anyone's existing MIDI set-up and further explores some applications of MIDI Switching Units.
Shadow Guitar To MIDI Converter
The 'guitar synthesizer' appears to be going through a new lease of life at present, with many manufacturers releasing guitar-based synth controlling devices that make good use of MIDI's powers of expression. lan Gilby tries out one such model: the Shadow GTM-6.
Fairlight Series III
The Fairlight (in its previous Series Il guise) was/is probably the most famous computer musical instrument in the world. Everybody knows the name, but few really know what its true capabilities are. Now there is a new breed of Fairlight, far more powerful and far more sophisticated than the old one ever was-the Series III. Richard Elen takes a look at the mind-boggling potential of this Rolls-Royce of sound sampling/synthesizing machines.
Shure Microphones
We gathered together five different types of microphone from the current Shure product range and gave them to sound engineer Dave Lockwood to test. Read his report in this issue.
Subscription Offer
Take out a year's sub this month and you could find yourself the new owner of a highly versatile Syncom MIDI Research T108U MIDI Thru box as well!
MIDIC
An interesting name for a very interesting MIDI computer product from Hinton Instruments of Oxford. Jay Chapman tells you what it does and how it can be used.
Tantek Sampler-Delay Paul Gilby focuses his attention on a cost-effective modular effects rack system from Tantek and scrutinises one of its modules - a versatile sampler and digital delay unit.
Frankfurt Music Fair '87
Sound On Sound have combined forces with the Premier Travel Group to bring you these special offer package tours to next year's Frankfurt Music Fair. Now's your chance to finally visit this Mecca of the music world next February and see, hear and play all the brand new products long before they hit the UK shops. Don't miss out. Book now!
The shape of things to come
A quick gaze at the crystal ball reveals a new MIDI mixer from Simmons, a digital reverb/effects processor from AKG, a MIDI-CV module from Tantek, and plenty more...
Hands On Show preview
A brief rundown of exhibitors, products and events that you can expect to experience at this year's Turnkey show.
Drawmer LX20 expander/compressor
Drawmer noise gates and compressors have become the undisputed industry standard in the field of sound recording, and their latest unit looks set to make it a hat-trick. The dual channel LX20 offers comprehensive compression/expansion facilities at a budget price. Engineer Gareth Stuart assesses its performance.
Japanese New Age music
At 28 Seigen Ono is one of Japan's leading producer/engineers whose recording credits include working for David Sylvian, Robert Fripp, Ryuichi Sakamoto and Lounge Lizards. He is also the creator of some of the highest quality instrumental music yet to be classified under the New Age music banner. Mark Prendergast discovers what he and his music are all about.
Roland S-10 sampling keyboard
'Is this the one we have all been waiting for?' asks Julian Colbeck. Slotting neatly into the vacant sub-£1000 price bracket, Roland's new keyboard is a fast and easy to use sampler with plenty of attractive qualities. But how does it fare against the competition? Read on to find out...
Making the most of your Mirage
Back with another fascinating instalment of hints and tips, Tony Hastings offers further guidance to those Ensoniq Mirage owners wishing to develop their sampling skills.
Paris Music Fair
Our roving reporter Mark Jenkins takes a look off the beaten track at some of the more interesting French equipment shown at last month's Paris Music Fair.
Frankie Goes To Hollywood
The superbly produced music of Frankie Goes To Hollywood embodies the whole spirit and character of modern hi-tech recording methods. With the release of their long-awaited second album 'Liverpool', it seemed an opportune moment for Paul Gilby to discover if there is more to the band than Trevor Horn's production techniques.
Sennheiser microphones
The new range of condenser mics from this respected German firm utilise frequency modulation techniques to achieve a wide, flat response. Gareth Stuart checks them out.
Elka EK22/EK44 synthesizers
Italian-designed keyboards have received mixed success over the years. Elka's old Rhapsody string synth was a popular instrument in the seventies but their main polysynth, the Synthex, failed to set the world alight. That may well be about to change with the release of their impressive 9-voice, multi-timbral, DX7-soundalike, the EK44, and the 6-voice analogue EK22. Or is it? Mark Jenkins offers his views.
MEL FX1001 multi-effects
Group six versatile effects units together in a 2U rack case, add MIDI control, a 3.5-inch disk drive with onboard microprocessor, and what have you got? lan Gilby provides the answer...
Mark of the Unicorn software
Our resident Mac user Martin Russ steps his way enthusiastically through two of the best written software packages for the Apple Macintosh computer-'Performer', a comprehensive multitrack sequencing program, and 'Professional Composer', a music transcription program.
Triangle Studio
Birmingham's Triangle Media & Arts Centre houses what is probably the largest 8-track recording facility in the country. It also runs some interesting extra-curricula activities in the form of a Rock Recording course. We asked the man in charge, Bruce Hart, to tell us more about it.
Natural music
Is it possible to create music using only the natural sounds of the Earth? Robin Lumley says yes, having done just that for a forthcoming BBC documentary series with the aid of a Prophet 2000 sampler and some open-minded studio personnel. Read his fascinating tale.
Roy Bittan
Bruce Springsteen's new five-LP set documents Bittan's growth through ten years at the keys with the E Street Band. In this Keyboard exclusive, Bittan reflects on his decade with the Boss, and expounds on the art of rock keyboard performance.
Soundpage
Hot Licks From T Lavitz
Spice up your solos with some exciting keyboard licks, played and explained by Dixie Dregs alumnus T Lavitz. Also, an update on T's current activities, and the story behind the breakup of the Dregs.
Features
Keyboard Poll Winners
Your choices for the top keyboard players of 1986.
Strange Synthesizers
Remember the Prism? The Con Brio? The Synthia? Despite energetic marketing campaigns, many ambitiously designed synthesizers flamed out shortly after liftoff. Keyboard remembers some instruments that time forgot, and tells the stories behind their demise.
Earl Wild
Reminiscences of Rachmaninoff and Gershwin, a celebration of Liszt, and eulogies for the old virtuoso spirit from a keeper of the Romantic piano flame.
Tomita In New York
Japan's master of celestial synthesis bedazzles Battery Park with an outdoor electronic extravaganza.
Keyboard Articles Index
A complete listing of this year's features, columns, and reviews.
Profile
Soundtrack: Michele Rubini's Synclavier score for Manhunter.
Career Update: Catching up with Dave Brubeck.
People: Elton John's journeyman synthesist, Fred Mandel.
Keyboard News: Jerry Lee Lewis' rockin' birthday bash.
Equipment
Patches Of The Month
Try these new programs for the Korg DW-8000 and Yamaha DX21.
In The Studio
Bobby Nathan declares war on hiss.
The Piano Technician
Larry Fine with three approaches to humidifying your piano.
Mind Over MIDI
Trying to MIDI your sax, trumpet, violin, snare drum, and kitchen sink? Jim Cooper tells you what you're in for.
Systems & Applications
Steve De Furia confronts the mystery of mismatched velocity sensitivity on different MIDI keyboards.
Digital Sampling
Terry Fryer and a music industry attorney discuss the legal aspects of sampling.
Keyboard Report The Steinberg Pro-24 gives Atari ST users some creative sequencing options.
Keyboard Report Kurzweil presents its Midiboard keyboard controller and 150 preset additive synthesizer module.
Keyboard Report New preset multi-effects and digital reverb units: the Alesis Midifex and Midiverb.
Keyboard Report The Unique DBE synth module and DBM keyboard controller keep the Bit 99 alive.
Keyboard Report Softsynth from Digidesign offers additive software for sampling machines.
PRIVATE LESSONS
Freff A string is plucked. A hint of tangy pasta fills the air. Freff is on the loose again.
Bob Doerschuk Tip jar etiquette, and how to get even with non-tippers.
David Burge The intricate beauty of Charles Ives' piano sonatas.
William L. Fowler If you want to expand your harmonic vocabulary, three wedges are better than one.
Jimmy Bralower Creative drum machine sounds can keep a roomful of wrestlers happy.
Ruth Slenczynska An invitation to the dance: two of Schubert's Valses nobles et senti- mentales.
Features
Experimental Music In The '80s
You won't hear it on the hit parade, but in performance spaces, festivals, and some of
the most creative artistic minds of our time, experimental music lives and prospers. And sooner or later, it will affect your most basic assumptions about listening to and making music.
Outcasts, Prophets, & Renegades
They don't play standards. Many of them don't play recognizable harmonies or melodies, and a few don't even "play" at all.
Soundpage
An experimental sampler, featuring industrial music, a gazamba solo, and piano like you've never heard it before.
Piano Applications
Artists who bow the strings and hang the frame from the ceiling.
Conlon Nancarrow
When performers told him his music was unplayable, he packed his bags, moved into the desert, and went to work punching out an incredible body of work on player piano rolls.
Satie Cage: The Experimental Line
Today's experimental music questions our basic beliefs about art. Yet, as far back as the
1880s, the same questions were being asked by a young cabaret pianist in Paris.
Mondo Giveaway
Unbelievable, but true: Win a $32,000 Fairlight and more!
Brian Eno
Untarnished by fame, Eno remains a musical visionary. In this Keyboard exclusive, he
expounds on the experimental process, and suggests strategies-oblique and otherwise-for developing your own potential in alternative music.
Resources
Records, cassettes, books, magazines, festivals: all you need for your road map through the underground.
Controlled Bleeding
Nicolas Collins
Glenn Branca
The University Scene
Gordon Monahan
Vyacheslav Ganelin
Casey Sokol & Michael Snow
John Cage
Pauline Oliveros
Sun Ra
Morton Subotnick
Profile
People: Russ Ferrante's Yellowjacket jazz.
People: Patrick O'Hearn comes clean.
PRIVATE LESSONS
Creative Options
Technical Exercises
Rock Keyboards
Contemporary Piano
Applied Theory
TECHNOLOGY
In The Studio
Digital Sampling
Software For Musicians
Mind Over MIDI
Synthesizer Basics
Computers For Keyboardists
KEYBOARD REPORT
The E-mu Emax sampling keyboard
Alternative MIDI controllers
The Roland DEP-5 digital effects processor
Frank Zappa
They laughed when he put down his guitar..." But when he sat behind his Synclavier,
the laughing stopped and some serious music began. Rock's most outspoken iconoclast speaks up on the resources of his new instrument, the lost art of live performance, and the album sticker controversy.
Profile: Evan Lurie
Reflections from the subterranean world of the Lounge Lizards.
Profile: The Piano/DX7 Encounter
Pianist Rebecca La Brecque shakes up New York's classical circles with a recital of new music for piano and Yamaha DX7.
Profile: X-Days In Japan
Keyboard takes a ringside seat as Yamaha unveils the successor to its DX7, the DX7IIFD.
Profile: Dave Van Tieghem: The Sakamoto Sessions
A forward-looking percussionist describes his intercontinental collaboration with Ryuichi Sakamoto on Safety In Numbers.
George Shearing
Performance tips, scale exercises, fingerings for a Tatum run, and reflections on the craft
of jazz piano from one of its most distinguished practitioners.
Tony Banks
Ever since its early days as a cult art-rock band, Genesis has made full use of Tony's magic
touch at the keyboards. Now Hollywood is investing in Banks as well. Keyboard checks in with the veteran progressive rocker on the state of his art and the mystery of success.
Soundpage: 'The Black Page'
A virtuoso polyrhythm study from Zappa and his Synclavier.
Synthesizer Glossary, Part 1
A Berlitz for bewildered musicians, translating and explaining the most widely used words and phrases in electronic music.
Strange Synthesizers, Part 2
Further excursions into the swamps of keyboard technology.
Mondo Giveaway
A $32,000 Fairlight is still up for grabs.
PRIVATE LESSONS
Exercises Polyrhythms.
Rock Keyboards Drum patterns.
Freelance Piano You and the Union.
Contemporary Piano Ravel's Miroirs.
Applied Theory Countermelodies
Drum Machines Four-bar phrases.
TECHNOLOGY
Patches Eno's DX7 programs.
Applications Zappa's rhythms.
Digital Sampling Planning a session.
Mind Over MIDI Back to basics.
In The Studio Archiving samples.
Piano Technician On-the-job tuning.
Computers Hard disk storage.
KEYBOARD REPORT
KCS & Studio ST sequencers.
Kawai R-100 Drum machine.
Jam Factory & M Composing software.
Akai X7000 Sampler.
Roland S-10 Sampler.
Paul Shaffer
He's not just another pretty face; the bandleader on Late Night With David Letterman is
also one of the hottest rock keyboardists in America. Shaffer discusses his newest gear, some memorable TV sessions-including Keith Emerson's guest shot-and the essence of rock and roll in this Keyboard update.
Giveaway
Fairlight C.M.I. is still up for grabs.
Profile: Pee Wee's Playhouse
Musical frolics with Todd Rundgren, Mark Mothersbaugh, and the gang
Profile: Oberheim/ECC
Through tough times and toward a promising future with a pioneering synthesizer manufacturer.
Profile: Joachim Kühn Pieminus finds musical freedom in Paris.
Vladimir Ashkenazy
Provocative opinions from a master of classical piano on the struggle toward excellence and the worthlessness of rock.
Larry Fast
Thoughts from a veteran synthesizer whiz on the state of electronic music, the
limitations of the keyboard interface, and the complexities of his Metropolitan Suite.
Soundpage Contest Winner: Guy Babylon's 'Babylon Bleu'
This year prize goes to a self-proclaimed prog rocker, whose 'Babylon Bleu' keeps the
spirit of Gentle Giant alive.
Gigging
Yes, there's life beyond MTV. A promotional video might be the perfect way to boost your band onto the club circuit.
MIDI Software For Commodore-64
Irish jig fans, celebrate Patrick's Day with this program that lets your computer do the
writing-you still get to do the dancing.
Synthesizer Glossary, Part 2
93 The rest of the mumbo-jumbo, from N to Z, for your electronic music vocabulary.
PRIVATE LESSONS
Creative Options Caring.
Exercises Polyrhythms.
Contemporary Piano Ravel's Gaspard.
Applied Theory Dominant 7ths.
Master Class The Pathétique.
TECHNOLOGY
Computers Optical disks.
Software Sys-ex data.
Digital Sampling Session logs.
In The Studio Stereo secrets.
Mind Over MIDI Myths & modes.
Piano Technician Emergencies
Applications MIDI & Lauper.
KEYBOARD REPORT
Yamaha QX5 Hardware sequencer.
Kawai 250 & 150 Digital pianos.
ART ProVerb Digital reverb.
Opcode Midimac 2.5 Sequencer software.
Editor's Note 8 Letters
What's New
Released and Reviewed by Robert Carlberg
First Take
On Location: Report from Japan by Craig Anderton
RECORDING
Trackology: The Art and Science of the 4-Track
Cassette Studio by Craig O'Donnell ..
Tips on choosing, using, and occasionally abusing the 4-track cassette studio.
INTERVIEW & OPINION
Jan Hammer's Electronic Cottage by Craig Anderton... For this electronic musician, home is more than where the heart is.
Electronic Music Behind the Iron Curtain
by Archie Patterson
When they say "state-of-the-art," the emphasis is on "state.'
DO-IT-YOURSELF
Two Buck Pickup by James Chandler Jr.
Champagne sound on a beer budget-whether for recording or live performance.
Build Your Own Synth Stands by Jim Kerkhoff All it takes is a little plastic tubing and a few hours of your time.
Mini-Controller, Part 2 by Thomas Henry
Add an LFO to Part 1's Noise Source and Lag Processor.
COMPUTERS AND SOFTWARE
CoCo and the Sequencer: Radio Shack/Syntrax by Chuck McQuillan Jr...
Radio Shack's deceptively powerful computer now speaks MIDI.
MIDI
Fun With System Exclusives by Jim Johnson . Esoteric, perhaps...but very useful.
MIDI Mergers: Theory, Practice, Applications by Doug Kraul..
We take you through the ins, ins, ins, and outs of MIDI merging.
APPLICATIONS AND BASICS
The Performing DX7 by Lowell Levinger Tame your DX for efficient live use.
REVIEWS
Sonus Super Sequencer by Steven Smith..
Siel DK70 MIDI Synthesizer by Alan Gary Campbell
Editor's Note Letters
Operation Help What's New
First Take
MIDImouse CZ Sounds, Casio Instructional Video, Axxess Mapp and Roland S-10 Sampler Released and Reviewed by Robert Carlberg
ELECTRONIC PERCUSSION
The Acoustic Drummer's Guide to Electronic Drums by Jeff Burger Drummers who don't know where to start when expanding into the world of electronic drums can start here.
Random Rhythms by Tim Eblin Let Lady Luck write some unique drum parts for you.
RECORDING
Things I Wish I'd Known Back When by Vanessa Else
Just getting into recording? Might as well learn from the experiences of others.
INTERVIEW
Larry Fast: Music For Metropolises by John Diliberto. Between the first Synergy album in five years, changing technology, and guiding a record label, Larry has a lot to say.
MIDI
Maximum MIDI for Minimum Money by E. A. Holley Put together a cost-effective MIDI music studio.
DO-IT-YOURSELF
Sync and Sequence with the Casio SK-1 Sampler by Tim Fluharty Modify your SK-1 and sync it to the real world of sequencers and drum machines.
Electronic Guitarist: Build the "Peakmaker" by Craig Anderton Don't change your pickups. Simulate the sounds of different guitar wirings electronically.
APPLICATIONS AND BASICS
Dare to be Serviced! by Alan Gary Campbell. True stories from the land of synthesizer service.
Looking for Mr. Goodsound by Kirk Austin. Views and reviews on boxes for the electronic guitarist.
Oberheim Prommer by Jeff Burger.
Blank Software's Drum File by Larry Oppenheimer
The Fairlight Voicetracker by Kevin Nord
BRUCE HORNSBY
Hitmaker Hornsby wasn't afraid to play a keyboard solo in what became his first No. 1 single. But no high-tech digital synths? No sequencers? No samples? Only piano? And accordion? That's just the way it is.
PROFILE: MASTERS OF THE UNIVERSE
Scott Gershin rocks Radio City with He-Man and She-Ra.
PROFILE: COIL
Sampling in the spirit of Throbbing Gristle.
WIND SYNTHESIS
Tips on using breath controllers so that you and your synth can trade licks with the best horn players.
FRED SELDEN: STUDIO WIND SYNTHESIST
Ablow-by-blow description of how one L.A. studio veteran adds fresh air to his sessions.
DICK HYMAN: REFLECTIONS ON GEORGE GERSHWIN
Fifty years after Gershwin's death, an outstanding pianist and song stylist examines the
late composer's legacy.
KEYBOARDS IN THE USSR
Jazz piano festivals, Top 40 gigs, scrambling for gear, censorship, punk, techno-primi-tivism, ragtime-it's all happening in the Soviet Union, and Keyboard is there.
LEONID CHIZHIK: THE RUSSIAN TATUM
Thomas Mann meets Fats Waller in a dazzling transcribed performance of 'Ain't Misbehavin'.'
SOUNDPAGE INTRODUCTION TO POP MECHANICS
An avant-garde hors d'oeuvre, plus provocative comments on the Soviet music scene, from Russia's most daring experimental keyboardist, Sergey Kuryokhin.
PRIVATE LESSONS
Creative Options Do it now!
Rock Keyboards Live sound.
Freelance Piano Living with yourself.
Contemporary Piano Rachmaninoff.
Technical Exercises Arpeggios.
Applied Theory. Tetrachords.
Master Class Gershwin's Preludes.
TECHNOLOGY
Patches Xpander, K3, & Prophet-5.
Software MIDI handshaking.
Computers Buying a computer.
Mind Over MIDI Continuous controllers.
Digital Sampling Your first sample.
Synth & MIDI Basics Librarian programs.
In The Studio Setting audio levels.
Piano Technician Broken hammer shanks.
KEYBOARD REPORT
Master Tracks Passport Mac sequencer.
Korg DS-8 FM synthesizer.
Oberheim DPX-1 Sample player.
T.C. 2290 Digital delay.
LIVE PERFORMANCE APPLICATIONS
Wide Dispersion Sound System by Mike Sokol. Get your sound into every nook and cranny of a club-without blasting anyone's eardrums.
Live Keyboards with Cyndi Lauper by David Rosenthal If you're setting up a MIDI keyboard system, it's good to know what works for someone whose job depends on doing it right.
MIDI
Ins and Outs of Program Change by George DaNova. How to make the most of this ubiquitous MIDI feature.
Buying Your First Sequencer by Jeff Burger Sequencers are better than ever, which makes choosing one more difficult than ever. Here are the main points to consider.
COMPUTERS AND SOFTWARE
Making Quantization Work for You by Craig Anderton Quantization can do much more than just correct for sloppy playing.
Programming the MPU-401 Interface by Les Penner Presenting "Poor Man's Split," an application that demonstrates basic program- ming on the IBM PC.
INTERVIEW
David Torn: Re-Igniting
the Fuse of Fusion by John Diliberto An up-and-coming guitarist balances technology with the human touch.
DO-IT-YOURSELF
Secrets of Memory Expansion by Charles Fischer Expand the memory of older synths for next to nothing.
Service Clinic: Questions and Answers by Alan Gary Campbell Maybe not all roads lead to ROM, but a lot of upgrade paths do.
SYNTHESIS
The Lost Art of Synthesis by Jim Johnson. Hints and tips for the ESQ-1 and other analog/hybrid synths.
RECORDING
Workplace Design in the Studio by Frank Serafine. Sometimes the best way to beat a deadline is with ergonomics.
REVIEWS
First Take
The Complete Guide to MIDI Software, Grey Matter Response E! Rev. 2, Dr. T Atan K3 Editor, CompuMates K3 Editor, Alesis Midiverb II, MPX MIDI Patch Transmitter
Countryman Isomax Headset Mic by Kirk Austin
Ibanez SDR1000 by Scott McGregor Moore
COMPUTERS AND SOFTWARE
The Arrival of Intelligent Instruments by Larry Oppenheimer. Choice or chance? Now the composer can have both. This definitive article explains and reviews the powerful new tools that are poised to expand your musical horizons.
RECORDING
A Grand Sample by Mike Dwyer. Sampling is easy...the hard part is making those samples sound good. Mike went in search of the ultimate grand piano sample, and learned a lot in the process.
DO-IT-YOURSELF
MIDI Switcher Primer by Paul Schmidt. Tired of plugging and unplugging MIDI cables? Need a clutter-cutter? Here's the information you need to build a custom MIDI switchbox.
Random Patch Roundup by Tim Dowty. Recipe: Take EM's CZ Patch Librarian. Stir in a few new lines of code. Fold in patch data from your CZ. Shake well in a Commodore 64, and serve up plenty of hot, algorithmically generated sounds.
APPLICATIONS & BASICS
How, When, and Why to Consult a Music Lawyer by Terry Kennedy. As you look over your contract, the vultures circle overhead-but there's hope. A good lawyer can guide you through the desert of legalese and keep you from getting your bones picked clean.
INTERVIEW
Klaus Schulze by Ben Kettlewell. Many have tried-but few have interviewed this legendary pioneer, who has managed to combine commercial success with making music on his own terms. This exclusive interview probes the unique perspective he's developed over the past 20 years as an electronic musician.
REVIEWS
First Take: Sonus FB01 Design, JL Cooper MIDI Switch Box+, Upward Concepts Mirage Multi-Temperament Disk, Korg KME-56 Multigraphic EQ.
Passport Master Tracks Pro for the Mac by Craig Anderton
Kawai R-100 Drum Machine by Jim Fiore.
FEATURES
JEFF LORBER
Have drum machines and sequencers drained the juice from Lorber's high-voltage keyboard style? Far from it, as his solo and studio work affirm. Here's how one of L.A.'s top player/producers combines technology and real-time flash in a spicy keyboard recipe.
PROFILE: INSIDE ROLAND
Proflary philosophy and techno wizardry are the secrets of this synthesizer manufacturing giant's success.
PROFILE: BON JOVI'S DAVID BRYAN
On the road and in the grooves.
PROFILE: PETE JOLLY
Ajazz session veteran swings in the L.A. studios.
THE CURE
26 when drummer Lol Tolhurst switched to synths, that was just what the doctor ordered
for his band, the Cure. Tolhurst explains his conversion to keyboards, and outlines the synth and sample parts on Kiss Me Kiss Me Kiss Me.
MIDI FOR THE CASIO SK-1
34 Astep-by-step blueprint for adding MIDI to a popular low-cost sampling synth.
CHORDS & RIFES USER'S GUIDE
Especially for younger musicians an easy-to-follow guide to one of the building blocks
of popular music.
NEW AGE RECORD COMPANIES
Practical advice for meditative musicians and soundscape sculptors in search of a label.
SOUNDPAGE: 'TANGO?'
A rare piece for piano and ten fingers by Conlon Nancarrow, master composer for player piano, performed and discussed for Keyboard by Ursula Oppens.
PRIVATE LESSONS
Creative Options Filthy lucre.
Rock Keyboards Keyboard arranging for TV.
Jazz Piano Bill Evans
Contemporary Piano The new wave, 1900-1920.
Technical Exercises Improvising on arpeggios.
Applied Theory Weird scales.
TECHNOLOGY
Applications Pro-quality stereo.
Mind Over MIDI MIDI Time Code.
Computers The Atari ST.
Digital Sampling Outer limits.
Software MIDI BASIC.
In The Studio Soundproofing.
Piano Technician Things that go bump.
KEYBOARD REPORT
Yamaha DMP7
MIDI Step
IBM Sequencers 48 Track PC II & Forte.
Korg DRV-2000
Alesis Midiverb II & Microverb
Hybrid Arts Miditrack ST
Letters
Readers write in and share their views on what it's like to be a teenage synth player, how the D-50 holds up on tour, New Age music, our Patch Page, and more!
Random Noise
All the noise that's fit to print on who's who and what's what throughout the world of Roland users.
Currents
Announcing the Roland Seminar Tour 1988! Check our schedule of dates nationwide and plan to attend now! Plus Roland makes it happen again at the recent winter NAMM Show.
BOSS Hardware
5 Million BOSS pedals have been sold worldwide, and you can win one of the hundreds of wrist watches we'll be giving away to celebrate.
Roland Hardware
Discover new L/A synthesizers (there's one with a built-in sequencer and disk drive), plus a single space rack-mount sampler, powerful new sequencers, and more!
Roland Software
Introducing the PC Desktop Music Studio, the perfect musical companion for PC owners, including an L/A synth module and new EASE songmaker software.
Roland DG
Industrial Arts programs in many schools are realizing the advantages of integrating Roland's CAMM-3 into the curriculum for motivating students and producing better trained graduates.
Roland Sound Bank
The latest update on free sounds for owners of Roland samplers, plus current offerings from the D-50 Sound Library available at authorized Roland dealers now.
Power Tools
Presenting a series of new software offerings for Roland products from third party software developers, including a variety of patch librarians, many exciting alternate sounds.
Rhythm Tracks
Kurt Hueg visits with Alan Diaz, one of the new breed of electronic drummers, who uses MIDI sequencers, drum machines, and synthesizers to forge new idioms of rhythmic expression.
Patch Page
Give our custom collection of new sounds a try! Instruments include the D-50, JX-10/MKS-70, JX-8P, MKS-80, and alpha Junos/MKS-50. Let us know what you think!
MIDIFAX
Paul La Rose, director of the MIDI guitar program in the Music Department at the University of Southern California, discusses the power and growing applications of desktop music publishing.
Understanding Technology
Tony Thomas takes a close look at Roland's new professional digital audio products featuring the AES/EBU data transmission standard with coaxial fiberoptic cables.
Questions and Answers
Jim Mothersbaugh, director of Roland's Service Department, answers your technical and applications questions on Roland and BOSS products. Send in your questions today!
The shape of things to come
Glimpse some of the forthcoming and recently released new products from the hi-tech and recording fields.
Korg 707 synthesizer
As synthesizer prices continue to plummet and the number of features increases, Korg introduce a colourful range of low-cost 8-voice, multitimbral, aftertouch and velocity sensitive performance synths. Mark Jenkins straps one on....
Effective Automators
Used together, the Akai MB76 Mix Bay and PEQ6 Equaliser can bring a limited but useful degree of automation to the MIDI-based home studio. Ian Gilby explains how.
How it works: Multitrack
From the humblest of 4-track cassette recorders to the might of 48-track digital, multitrack is the technique used for 99.9% of all commercial recordings. David Mellor looks at the background to this powerful tool and wonders how we ever managed without it.
Robert Fripp
He's played guitar with the best - David Bowie, Peter Gabriel, David Sylvian, Talking Heads, Brian Eno and, of course, King Crimson- and he's also worked away from the public eye, pursuing truths other than the rock and roll life. Mark Prendergast discovers that Robert Fripp's insights are of interest to more than just guitarists.
Choosing a Computer
Having made your decision to opt for a software-based MIDI music system, which computer do you choose? Which is best? Are they all the same? Mark Badger considers the three prime contenders.
Sound Advice
Our regular column devoted to readers' hints and tips about their recording equipment, instruments, software and playing techniques.
Three 4-Tracks
Is it possible to get expensive sounds from inexpensive equipment or is the poor person's multitrack merely an expensive toy? David Mellor looks at three entry-level recorders Tascam Porta 05, Fostex X30, and Yamaha MT2X- and asks 'Which one would you choose?".
Tips to tame the DX7II
Programming your own DX sounds is not so difficult when there's someone to guide you. Kevin Stratton, product specialist with Yamaha USA, explains how to create vocal-like sounds and reverb with this FM synthesizer.
MIDI automation systems
Part 2: Last month we explained the development and requirements of VCA-based mixer automation systems. This month, Graham Hinton scrutinises three retrofittable automation systems - the Twister PAC, MegaMix, and J.L. Cooper Midi Mation - and asks 'How good are they?.
Yamaha DX7S
A story in which our hero, David Mellor, deserts the path of enlightenment and sells his DX7 Mkl for a rival keyboard. Can the DX7S tempt him back to the true faith? Read on...
Alesis Micro effects
David Hughes tries out three new low-cost companions to the Alesis Microverb - the Micro Enhancer, Micro Gate, and Micro Limiter. Are they the Accessit range of the Eighties?
Hybrid Arts GenPatch ST
How on earth could buying a generic patch librarian program from Hybrid Arts actually save you money? Martin Russ explains how.
Practically MIDI
Part 7: Martin Russ dons his lab coat and deerstalker to investigate some of the unwanted features of MIDI.
System Exclusive Dumps
The mysteries of SysEx are revealed. Martin Russ discovers that there may be more to that disk drive in your latest acquisition than you thought...
SPECIAL SHOW REPORTS
National Association of Music Merchants by Craig Anderton and EM staff. Disneyland was right around the corner, but for the music industry, Tomorrowland was the January NAMM show.
Consumer Electronics Show by Peter Hirschfeld and Tim Tully... 19 Great-sounding musical electronics are finally available at consumer prices: EM
reports on the latest.
COMPUTERS
Introduction by Craig Anderton.
Music on the Amiga by Dean Friedman Remember the tortoise and the hare? The Amiga 500 and 2000 are now making their bid, and Amiga owners may be holding a winning ticket.
Big Blue Does MIDI by Carter Scholz. They're getting cheaper, more powerful, and-with some hot new music software-IBM PCs are moving out of the board room and into the studio.
The State of the Macintosh by Geary Yelton. It started with 128K of RAM, no music software, and a closed architecture, but evolution and dedicated software developers have turned the Mac into a first rate music computer.
The Atari Arrives by Jamie Kurt. Built-in MIDI ports and a recent spate of music software have made the ST the computer of choice for budget-conscious musicians.
Mac Power User = Power Muser (Part 1) by Christopher Yavelow. When the muse visits, make sure your computer gives you the power to make her feel truly welcome.
TIPS
Insider Info: Tips from Our Readers. Sync your tape, transfer your data, achieve success, tame your guitar synth, and modify your projects.
SOFTWARE
Chord-An Algorithmic Composing Program in Atari ST BASIC by Jim Johnson. This program may not generate a platinum record for you...but then again, it just might
DO-IT-YOURSELF
LED Bar Graph Peak Detector by Thomas Henry. Build this simple, inexpensive, illuminating way to see what's going on in your circuits.
REVIEWS
First Take. MX-8 MIDI Patch Bay, Patch of Shades, Book: The Complete DX7II
Akai MPX820 by by David Karr
Attack of the High Tech Fuzz by Alan Campbell
Kurzweil K1000 by Alan Campbell
ELECTRONIC PERCUSSION
Powerful Percussion with FM Synthesis by Phil Bloch & Scott Plunkett. Use those familiar carriers and modulators to turn your FM synthesizer into a drum box loaded with great new sounds.
Getting the Most From Your Drum Machine by various authors. Effects techniques, mixing, and creative interfacing can maximize the power of your automated drummer.
Meet Zelda: An Altered Octapad by Jim Fiore.Refit your Octapad with 14 inputs, build a few inexpensive drum pads, and get one killer drum kit.
SYNTHESIS
Inside L/A Synthesis by Craig Anderton. Explore the combined digital and analog secrets of this new synthesizer technology that's turning heads everywhere.
MIDI Reaches Adolescence by Lachlan Westfall. The MIDI specification 1.0 has grown a bit over the years, and the working MIDIcian needs to know the latest-without delay.
COMPUTERS
Mac Power User = Power Muser, Part II by Christopher Yavelow. Inits, cdevs, DAS-it's the little things that count when you want your Macintosh to fulfill its real potential.
DO-IT-YOURSELF
Service Clinic by Alan Gary Campbell. From tweaking your Casio CZs, FZS and TMs to instrument tuning with electronics, our expert clinician has all the tricks.
Opto-mum MIDI by Jack Orman. Your MIDI project isn't complete without the right kind of opto-isolator, and this article explains your options.
REVIEWS
First Take.Tandy CCR-81 Computer Cassette Recorder, Ad Lib Music Synthesizer, Prosonus CD Sound Library and Ear Works CD Percussion Sound Library, Engineered Percussion E-Pedal
Alesis HR-16 Drum Machine by Jim Johnson
Mark of the Unicorn Performer 2.2 by Christopher Yavelow
Digidesign Q-Sheet by Michael Levine & Bob Kinkel...
Yamaha WX7 Wind MIDI Controller by Tim Tully
APPLICATIONS AND BASICS
Mapping Your Way Through MIDI Multi-Tracking by John Volanski. Mired and muddled by MIDI? Here's a seven-step plan for developing a MIDI studio that meets your needs.
Audio Aspirin for Studio Headache #1 by Dean Heinbuch.... 29 Keep your patching problems at hay-with a patch bay.
The Experienced Sequencer by Terry Kennedy. 12 tips to tap the full potential of the Roland MC-500 and Yamaha QX5 sequencers.
THE ELECTRONIC MUSICIAN
The Year of Living Dangerously, Part I by Kofi Busia. It was "good-bye day job, hello music," when this brave electronic musician traded a safe nine-to-five routine for the chance to realize his musical dreams.
COMPUTERS
Mac Power User = Power Muser Part III: Advanced Techniques by Christopher Yavelow ........53 If your computer works eight hours a day, it's slacking off for the other 16. Why not have your Mac work for you while you sleep?
DO-IT-YOURSELF
SPXFILE: An SPX90 Librarian by Carter Scholz. Yes, you can back up your favorite Yamaha SPX90 patches-check out this handy program for IBM and compatible computers.
Build an Eight-in, Eight-out MIDI Patch Bay by Carter Scholz. Tired of groping behind your rack whenever you need to repatch that tangle of MIDI cables? Here's the answer.
You Can Take it With You by David Farrens. Next time inspiration moves you, be ready for your trip with a briefcase studio.
Mystery Word Matrix by Vanessa Else. Find out how much you really know about electronic music with this MIDI- maximized jargon juggler.
The Smooth Phaser by Thomas Henry. Need a clean, versatile and inexpensive phaser? Build this simple three-chip circuit and add silky, fluid effects to your mix.
Service Clinic by Alan Gary Campbell. Answers to reader queries about zero ohm resistors, op amp substitutions, spares for the traveling musician, and more.
REVIEWS
First Take. McGill Sample Library, Roland M-240 Line Mixer, P.K.I. Gun Drums, Dominant Functions Tiff Sequencing Software (IBM), Snap GM-70 Companion Editor (IBM, Mac)
Palmtree Instruments Airdrums by Paul Lehrman
Sampled Grands from Korg, Roland and Yamaha by Alan Gary Campbell
The shape of things to come
A chance to check out some of the forthcoming new products that might tempt you to dig deeper into your pockets later this year.
Roland $550 & S330 samplers
David Mellor looks at Roland's flagship rackmount sampler, the $550, and its newly launched escort vessel, the $330. Are they squaring up to fire a broadside at the enemy's sampling fleet? Find out inside.
How it works: the Cassette
Do you live in peace with your cassette recorder? Or is your life full of mangled tape misery and longings for lost high frequencies? Confirmed reel-to-reelie David Mellor explains the problems that bedevil the cassette format, and offers some advice to make the medium work for you rather than against you.
Yamaha DXII synthesizer
Yamaha have bowed to pressure and released an easier to programme DX with an abundance of features. Tony Wride gets to grips with Yamaha's first ever multitimbral synth with a keyboard!
Roland D110 LA expander
Here it is - the professional version MT32 complete with separate voice outputs, built-in reverb and hardly any noise. Martin Russ looks at Roland's new studio-oriented rackmount LA synthesizer.
Guide to Acoustic Sound Synthesis
Rudi Cazeaux explores the nature of sound and presents some basic guidelines for synthesizing the various standard groups of acoustic instruments.
Technical Tips
Practical hints and tips for the modern recording musician. Martin Russ shares some of his hi-tech pearls of wisdom.
Toa 8-track Cassette Recorder
If you thought eight tracks on standard cassette was an impossibility, think again. David Mellor assesses the world's first 8-track cassette recorder. Will it do to 8-track tape machines what the portastudio did to 4-tracks? Read on and find out...
Ensoniq ESQ/SQ80 voice editors
More and more synth owners are turning to computer-based voice editing software to take the drudgery out of programming their own sounds. We asked Matthew Newman of the Ensoniq Users Club to compare three ESQ/SQ80 editors from Soundbits, Dr T and Steinberg.
Steinberg Software Page
The second of an 'experimental' column devoted entirely to Steinberg software. Written and compiled exclusively for SOS by Steinberg's experts, it contains hot news of current and forthcoming software revisions plus 'in-house' tips and tricks on its use. Read on and respond!
Kawai KI synthesizer
Kawai's latest 16-voice multitimbral keyboard is packed with features and aimed fairly and squarely at D50/ESQ territory. Its PCM sampled waveforms include drums and percussion, a host of standard and exotic instruments, as well as the best of the additive synth waveforms gleaned from the K5. It also has one ace up its sleeve - its price. Ian Gilby tells it like it is.
Robbie Robertson
After calling it a day with seventies' supergroup The Band, and an interim period spent scoring soundtracks for Martin Scorsese films, guitarist Robbie Robertson has teamed up with Daniel Lanois, Peter Gabriel and U2 to create an impeccable first solo outing. Mark Prendergast lends the album an appreciative ear.
Practically FM
Part 2 of our new series for FM synth owners, in which Martin Russ attempts to give away the secrets of FM programming!
Simmons SDX drum sampler
Lurking inside this angular-looking monster is a versatile computer system that will turn what is ostensibly an electronic drum kit (albeit a state-of-the-art 16-bit sampling one) into a formidable MIDI workstation. Ed Jones test drives Simmons' powerful, new SDX system.
FEATURES
The Year of Living Dangerously, Part II by Kofi Busia. Committed to creating music, Kofi quits his job and sells his house, only to find that the real challenges are yet to come.
20 Great Achievements in 20 Years of Musical Electronics 1968-1988 by Craig Anderton. EM picks two decades of the best and the brightest, with commentary by some of the pioneers of synthesis, sampling and MIDI: Robert Moog, John Chowning Roger Linn, Dave Smith, Kim Ryrie, and many others.
APPLICATIONS
Just Intonation on the New Yamaha Synths by Tim Perkis. Explore the world of alternate tunings for the TX81Z, DX711, TX802 and DX11 with this step-by-step guide.
Roland TR-707: Drum Machine or Sequencer by Keith Meiere. Need a sequencer? Here's a way to make your "old reliable" TR-707 learn a few new tricks.
Reference Sheet for the DX7 E! Expansion Board by Carter Scholz. An EM exclusive: Expand your horizons with this bonus reference sheet.
Stretching the Samples on an Akai S612 by Michael Tucker. While outperformed by later generation samplers, the 5612 can still be a productive part of your MIDI setup-if you follow these useful tips and techniques.
COMPUTERS
Portable Power: Computers for the Road by George Petersen. Who says you can't take it with you? EM looks for a rugged, transportable computer and finds several possible solutions.
DO-IT-YOURSELF
A 64-Patch CZ RAM Cartridge-For $15 by Jules Ryckebusch. Got more patches than money? Invest a couple of hours time, and put together this simple answer to your Casio CZ's storage needs.
REVIEWS
First Take. Music Quest MIDI Starter System (IBM); Lake Butler Sound RFC-1 MIDI Mitigator; Books: The Sampling Book; The Source; Successful Sound System Operation.
Beaverton Digital TX81Z Editor/Librarian by Dean Heinbuch
Blacet Research Instantmod (Casio CZ-101/1000 modulation retrofit) by Alan Gary Campbell
Features
Geoff Addis. It's not everyone who can set up a classical recording studio in their own home, let alone attract an international clientele.
Real Multitracked Stereo. Mike Skeet returns to our pages to explain a new application of an old concept.
David Lord. From classical beginnings, David has become established as a world class producer with his own SSL studio.
Stop the World. Patient Joe Hyde laments the state of technology in his own inimitable way.
Susurreal Studio. The heartening tail of how the dream of owning a residential self-op studio became a reality.
Regulars
Readers' Tapes. An honest appraisal of your demos by John Harris (sans sex change).
Sound Workshop 3. This month we look at basic stereo miking techniques.
Reviews
AKG C1000S Microphone. This affordable back-electret mic performs as well as a true condenser mic and is useful in a wide range of recording situations.
Short Takes. An in-brief look at the Alesis graphic equalisers followed by some light reading in the form of three books on loudspeakers, MIDI and digital recording.
ART Proverb 200. Offering 16-bit performance, this processor can produce 200 different reverb and special delay effects.
TOA MR-8T. TOA's entry into the eight-track cassette market offers the unusual feature of an on-board monitor mixer.
C-Labs Notator. Based on the acclaimed Creator sequencer, this programme offers score editing and high quality music printout.
Tascam M600. A serious recording mixer turning in a good performance at a sensible price.
Kabanda TS9 Synchronizer. A MIDI song pointer system that will lock your tape machine and sequencer together.
Boss ME5. A progammable MIDI guitar stomp box that's more than a little useful in the studio.
Yamaha MIDI Grand Piano Competition Results. The professional controller keyboard comes under scrutiny.
Workshop
Phantom Power Your PZM. A blow by blow account of how to modify your Tandy PZM for balanced operation with phantom power capability.
Low Noise DI Buffer Amp II. Parts list and pcb track layout for last month's popular project.
FEATURES
What's in a Sequencer? by Craig Anderton. Choosing the right sequencer can be a difficult decision for the professional as well as the MIDI tyro. This special report gives you the facts you need before you buy: the features, the functions, and the tradeoffs of both hardware and software sequencers.
The Year of Living Dangerously, Part III by Kofi Busia. In this final installment, Kofi overcomes the independent artist's greatest challenge: dealing with record companies and getting his completed album on the market.
APPLICATIONS
Beyond Notes: Percussion/Sequence Calls by David G. Smith. Learn how this "hidden" feature of many sequencers lets you use single-note events to trigger complex, intricate riffs for dazzling live MIDI performance.
S
ynchronization in the Home Studio: A Time Code Primer by John Barilla. With SMPTE-compatible equipment becoming more affordable, you need to know what makes this universally used time code tick. This definitive guide will help you strengthen your SMPTE savvy and successfully sculpt synched synth sessions.
DO-IT-YOURSELF
Service Clinic by Alan Gary Campbell. EM's resident tech answers reader questions with tips and tricks for keeping your Kurzweil happy and healthy.
Keyfrets: Keyboard to Guitar Voicing Translator by James Chandler, Jr. Keyboardists have long envied the guitar player's ability to strum rich, full chord structures, but fret no more: this amazing C-64 program brings the sound and color of open chord guitar voicing to any MIDI keyboard controller.
REVIEWS
First Take. Technics SL-P1200 Professional CD Player; Bacchus TX802 Graphic Editing System (IBM PC); Books: Casio FZ-1 and FZ-10; The MIDI Home Studio.
Digitech DSP-128 Digital Effects Signal Processor by Jim Johnson
Alesis MMT-8 Sequencer by Neil McKamey
Triton Soundprocess Software for the Mirage by Carter Scholz
Features
APRS Show Report. In which we confirm all that has gone before. You should have been there.
Natural Sounds Recording. Dolphins, apes, and all manner of earth-moving noises become music in the hands of Robin Lumley and cohorts.
Susurreal Part 2. Just when you thought it was safe to go out to the newsagent.
Hugh Padgham Masterclass. Paul Tingen eavesdrops on an episode of a Thatched Cottage-sponsored tutorial.
Crosstalk. Rob Urry and James Pennock from Digitech, the inventors of the DPS/28, get down to some happenin' talk.
Regulars
Readers' Tapes. Shirl's still away, and once again your tapes are in the capable hands of John Harris.
Sound Workshop 4. This month we tackle speech and how to sound like you belong on the radio.
Reviews
Symetrix Modules. The new half-rack SX201 parametric EQ and SX204 headphone amp come under review.
Sony DAT Recorder. Has affordable DAT arrived for the semi-pro studio? We help you find out.
Steinberg Pro-24 MkIII. Is Pro-24 finally catching up to its more user- friendly cousins? Long-time Pro-24 user Dave Pickering-Pick checks it out.
Zildjian Cymbal Mics. All your separation problems just may be solved with this new set of mics from Zildjian.
Roland P330 Piano Module. Possibly the answer to the perennial problem of miking a piano.
C-Lab X-Alyzer. Possibly the ultimate DX/TX sound management system, and it even transforms your patches into samples.
Competition Results. Drawmer Competition Result. We hardly kept you waiting any time at all. Two of you are very lucky indeed, and a few more of you have got new tee-shirts on your backs.
Workshop
Time Machine Pro-Activator. At last, a return to real projects! This stereo acoustic enhancer could be just what you're looking for on those long, rainy, English, summer days.
features
CD+MIDI+GRAPHICS: Will it Change the Industry? Find out why the proposed merging of MIDI and compact discs could forever alter the way you play and experience music by Craig Anderton
What's New: NAMM Show Report, Part I. What's hot, what's not, and a preview of some of the new products you'll be seeing in the stores this fall by Craig Anderton and the EM Staff
applications
Peak Performance Tips for Onstage Sound From building better bass to tweaking the treble, EM offers some sound advice on getting the most from your P.A. system by Craig O'Donnell
KCS Made Easy Dr. T's sequencers have the reputation of being powerful, yet difficult to learn. Zoom up your learning curve with these helpful hints by Dennis Jablonski
do-it-yourself
Build the Pocket MIDI Controller. Whether you're auditioning a new sound module or troubleshooting a complex MIDI setup, this compact test circuit will simplify life in the MIDI lane by Paul Schmidt
Service Clinic: Questions and Answers Our resident tech-xpert responds to your queries on Ensoniq and Moog gear, 100-foot MIDI cables, and more by Alan Gary Campbell
Building High-Performance Power Supplies The old transformer/rectifier combo just won't do for powering advanced analog and digital circuits. EM offers a simple solution: put together these one-chip, tracking, linear supplies for regulated, reliable, clean power.
by Thomas Figueiredo
reviews
First Take Altech MIDI Interfaces (Mac), Magnetic Music Pyramid TX/DX Editor/Librarian (IBM), Valhala Studio Series D-50 ROM Cards.
Passport Score Software (IBM) by Carter Scholz
Dr. T's KCS Level II Software with MPE (Atari ST) by Charles Williamson
Jim Miller's Personal ComposerSoftware (IBM) by Carter Scholz
The shape of things to come
More news of forthcoming new products to tempt you to dig deeper into your pockets.
XRI SMPTE-MIDI synchroniser
This low-cost unit from XRI brings the power of true timecode synchronisation to the masses. Paul Ireson checks it out.
Integrating MIDI & The Studio
MIDI has revolutionised the way we make and record music. But it has developed at such an incredible pace that it is easy to lose sight of MIDI's many benefits. In this lengthy article, Craig Anderton provides a lucid explanation of how you can make MIDI work for you - whether you have a small home studio set-up or a full-blown professional system.
Roland D20 LA synthesizer
With its 8-track sequencer, rhythm composer, digital reverb and built-in disk drive, Roland's latest multitimbral LA synthesizer would be better described as a budget 'music workstation'. Paul Ireson reveals why...
C-Lab Notator
By combining their 64-track 'Creator' MIDI sequencer with a set of powerful new features and a scorewriter, C-Lab have produced arguably the most sophisticated music notation package to date for the Atari ST. Jan Waugh supplies the notes...
Dbx 563x Silencer
The latest addition to the dbx range of half-rack studio processors is the 563X Silencer, a handy device for removing 'hiss' from recordings or even digital samples. Gareth Stuart puts it to the test.
Spectrum Synthesis on the Emax
Unlike some samplers, Emax has stayed the course since its introduction over 18 months ago and has developed into a mature, well groomed specimen. Having released a Hard Disk version of the machine almost a year ago, Emu Systems have recently given Emax yet another lease of life with their Spectrum Synthesis upgrade, which turns the sampler into a powerful additive synthesizer. David Hughes tries it out.
Recreating a Jam & Lewis Track
One good means of learning your way around the equipment you own is to use it to recreate somebody else's music. That's exactly what Mike Collins did last year whilst working at Yamaha's Research & Development Studio in London. Using nothing but Yamaha gear, he set about reproducing a Janet Jackson hit in full, by himself. Here, he recalls what was involved.
Passport Master Tracks Jr
Budget tight? Don't despair. This entry-level 64-track sequencing program from Passport has all the features you will need to start making your own music. Chris Kempster takes it for a spin.
UMI-4M MIDI composition system
Are 8 bits still viable? Martin Russ temporarily abandons his Atari ST for a look at the latest version of this music sequencer package for the BBC micro.
Steinberg Software Page
Another instalment of our column devoted entirely to Steinberg software, written and compiled exclusively for SOS by Steinberg's experts.
Dr.T's Software Page
More useful hints and tips for Dr.T's music programs, written and compiled exclusively for SOS by Dr.T themselves.
Oberheim Matrix 1000 expander
Looking for 'new' sounds? Martin Russ explores Oberheim's new Matrix 1000 analogue synth expander and discovers that digital isn't always best.
Practically FM
Part 5 of our series for FM synth owners, in which Martin Russ gives away even more secrets of FM programming. Operators at the ready!
Recording a Film Music Soundtrack
Ed Jones sits in on a major film music session in Abbey Road Studios, London, and reports on how the London Symphony Orchestra and a host of extra musicians recorded the music soundtrack to George Lucas' forthcoming prequel to 'Star Wars' - 'Willow'.
Comment
Tried to find a venue for a gig lately? If you did, the chances are you had problems so just what's happening to live music?
Newsdesk
The latest news of equipment and events can be found here in MT's regular news pages.
Communique
If you've a point to make or a question to raise regarding technology or the music that takes advantage of it, MT's letters page calls...
Competition
One of the synthesisers that Jean Michel Jarre used in the making of Oxygene and Equinoxe is the main prize in MT's biggest ever competition.
Free Ads
If you're looking for equipment, software or talent, MT's free classified ads offer you more choice than any other music technology magazine.
MUSIC
Gentlemen Without Weapons
Could you make music using only samples from natural sources? Paul Tingen talks to a band who've done just that in an attempt to draw attention to our environment.
Coldcut
Matt Black and Jonathan More have enjoyed success as DJs, record producers and artists in their own right. Simon Trask takes it from scratch.
OutTakes
Reports on the Pet Shop Boys' film and from Jean Michel Jarre's London concerts join regular reviews of music on vinyl, CD and readers' demo cassettes.
Alan Ayckbourn
A British playwright looks into the future and sees a composer locked away from the world with a machine that makes music for him. John Walters talks scripts and Synclaviers.
APPRAISAL
Cheetah MS6
The long-awaited, rack-mounting, multitimbral, budget analogue synth expander from Cheetah has arrived. Simon Trask turns on and trips out.
Yamaha YS200
Yamaha call it "Easy FM" - it's the latest and most friendly presentation of FM synthesis to date. Ian Waugh takes the easy option.
Kawai Q80
As software writers continue to flood the market with sequencing packages, Kawai go dedicated. Dave Bertovic investigates the hardware alternative.
MIDIsoft Studio
This new Atari ST sequencing software package from America combines affordability with flexibility. Simon Trask applies the soft touch.
Softwind Synthophone
The latest MIDI wind controller comes from Switzerland and uses a conventional sax body. Michael Andreas checks out the traditionalists' alternative.
Digigram Studio 24 & Big Band
Another sequencing package for the Atari ST, but this one has a companion that will help compose and arrange your music. Ian Waugh strikes up the band.
STUDIO
SRC/AT
It's not the cheapest synchroniser money can buy. but it's sophisticated and flexible enough to become one of the most popular. Vic Lennard gets in sync.
TECHNOLOGY
Music TV
No television drama would be complete wihout a soundtrack, but how do you write them? Nicholas Rowland tunes in to the music channel.
Korg Mono/Poly
As analogue synthesis enjoys a return to popularity, yesterday's synths are becoming regular topics of conversation. Rob Norman rediscovers voltage control.
We Are The Management
Who are the music biz' management, and do you really need them? David Bradwell talks to the people who take care of the stars and their affairs.
Map Rap
Turning a collection of samples into a usable keyboard patch is one of the most important aspects of sampling. Tom McLaughlin puts samples on the тар.
features
The Transcontinental MIDI Songwriting Shuffle Two musicians with different computers and sequencers share the discoveries they made collaborating across a continent by Al Hospers
Yamaha's G10 MIDI Guitar: Does it Really Work? The latest generation of MIDI guitars can provide excellent results; but new technology also means new things to learn by Craig Anderton
Program Your Amiga for Music Creating your own Amiga software isn't so hard; these tricks, techniques, and a CZ-101 editing program will get you started by Jim McConkey
applications
The ST Power User, Part II: The Software Turn your Atari into a lean, power machine with public domain programs, shareware, utilities, and other software amusements by Jim Johnson
Use Your Sequencer as a MIDI System Analyzer Need a guitar tuner, test-tone generator, or MIDI troubleshooter? Your sequencer offers all of these and much more by Craig Anderton
Insider Info: Tips from EM Readers Advice on buying a used synth, the multi-timbral CZ-101, budget studio racks, the sequencer as drum machine, and more by various authors
do-it-yourself
Modifying the ESQ-1/SQ-80: "DeWitt's Click" Take a good feature on a classic synth and make it better with this easy project. by Kim Monday and Greg DeWitt
Service Clinic: Questions and Answers Our resident tech offers tips on backup batteries, DeltaLab servicing, silicone sealer, and climatology by Alan Gary Campbell
Beat-It: A Drum Sensor Interface for the Atari ST. Build these piezo drum triggers for your Atari ST and multi-timbral synth and play MIDI drum sounds the old-fashioned way: with sticks by David Snow
reviews
First Take: Capsule Comments Command Development D-50 Command (Atari ST), Solid Sounds Xpander Patches, Snap GP-8 Companion (IBM), Book: Dig- ital Electronic Music Synthesizers.
Synthophone: The MIDI Sax from Softwind Instruments by Tim Tully
Lyre FDSoft: Harmonic Analysis and Resynthesis for the IBM by Carter Scholz...
Synthia: A Digital Synthesis Program for the Amiga by John Loffink
Book Reviews by David B. Doty
DAVID BRYAN OF BON JOVI Classical discipline meets blow-out rock and roll in the
music of David Bryan. But though his Bon Jovi stage setup repre- sents new heights of concert technology, there's nary a sequencer in sight. Bryan traces his development from the threshold of Juilliard to the pinnacle of the rock pile.
BON JOVI'S KEYBOARD SETUP: THE VIEW FROM WITHIN A schematic of David Bryan's onstage arsenal, with insights from Bryan's keyboard tech.
WORLD VIEW On disk with John Cage. On camera with Remote Control. On the air with Marian McPartland. Onward and upward with Insoc. Plus bulletins from around the globe.
FATS WALLER ON BROADWAY
Luther Henderson, pianist in the sensational Broadway revival of Ain't Misbehavin', explains the meaning and music of the legendary Fats Waller and offers his arrangement of a Waller classic, "Handful Of Keys."
KEYBOARD POLL WINNERS
Your choices for the keyboard greats of '88.
KORG M1 CLINIC
52 Kake the most of the M1's programs, combinations, and sequencer with these applications and patches from a Korg product specialist.
SOUNDPAGE: JOHN TESH
Voted Best New Talent in this year's Keyboard Poll, TV star John Tesh surprised the musical world with his Tour de France debut album. These unreleased tracks hint that even greater success lies ahead.
INDEX
A complete catalog of this year's Keyboard articles, columns, and equipment reviews.
PRIVATE LESSONS
Contemporary Piano Prokofiev's War Sonatas.
Applied Theory Diminished 7th chords.
Freelance Pianist Attack of the carollers.
Jazz Piano Benign reharmonization.
TECHNOLOGY
Ask Mr. Moog Granular synthesis.
Mind Over MIDI MIDI file nuts & bolts.
Software Mac MIDI thru data display.
Computers On-Line Learning the hard way.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
Akai S1000 Rack-mount sampler.
HB Engraver Mac notation program.
Roland MC-500mkII Updated software.
Pitch-To-MIDI Converters MIDImic & Vicknair CTM.
MIDI Routing Devices KMX MIDI Central & 360 Systems MIDI Patcher.
DEPARTMENTS
Reader Tips Dynamic sensitivity for the CZ-101.
14 Freff Chaos.
features
A Field Guide to Sampling.
Most musicians use only a fraction of their sampler's capabilities. Isn't it time you got the most out of this powerful, yet underused, technology?
The World is Your Waveform
Sample Recording Demystified
Ten Hot Sampling Tips
The Ultimate Sample Organizer by Craig Anderton
Real World Stereo in Your MIDI Mixes. Forget pan pots: use your MIDI sequencer and multi-timbral synth to create dynamic, lifelike stereo effects by Harold Spitzenberger
Studios of the (not yet) Rich and (almost) Famous The affordable MIDI studio: five EM readers share their stories of life in the MIDI lane by Richard Wells, T Lavitz, Jock Baird, Larry Fast, and Fay Lovsky
applications
Additive Programming: The Secret Life of the Kawai K5. Unlock the potential of this powerful synth with these shortcuts, including a free Mac routine for converting Mirage samples to K5 patches by James Chandler, Jr.
Taming the Wild Algorithm. Intelligent compositional programs are nothing new, but these computer collaborations can reflect your creativity, with a few simple techniques by Jeff Rona
do-it-yourself
Build a Fiber-Optic Guitar Cord. Unlimited cable runs and clean, interference-free signals are just a couple of the benefits offered by this easy, fun project by William Pirkle
The Simplest Atari Notation Program You'll Ever See. Create, store, and print simple music scores from your Atari ST sequencer files with this free program by Richard Witt
reviews
First Take: Capsule Comments Casio PG-380 MIDI Guitar Synth, Toshiba DX900 VHS Hi-fi VCR with PCM Audio, Cesium Sound D-50 ROM Cards
Blank Software's Alchemy (Mac) by Craig Anderton
Peavey Ultraverb by Alan Gary Campbell
Roland Super-MRC by Parker Adams
MIKE + THE MECHANICS
The soulful organ of Paul Carrack plus the high-tech
sequencing wizardry of Adrian Lee equals the sound of success for this superstar band.
WORLD VIEW
Joey De Francesco brings back the B-3. Pere Ubu returns with Allen Ravenstine. Tim Truman shuts down Miami Vice. Also, keyboard doings from Bulgaria to Boise.
CASIO FZ-1 CLINIC
Insights and advice on making seamless loops, concocting envelope effects, using the Call/Set button, and other advanced operations. Plus software recommendations.
SECRETS OF SALSA PIANO
Two prominent masters of salsa-style piano unravel the mysteries of montuno, guajeo, and Latin dance rhythms.
RICHARD TEITELBAUM
A major electronic music innovator discusses his pioneering work with biofeedback, performance art, proto-MIDI systems, and his mid-'70s experiments in real-time computer processing.
PETER MAX
90 What is creativity? A world-famous painter explains how to
trust the force, and gets MIDI lessons from rising L.A. session heavyweight Aaron Zigman.
TECHNOLOGY
Patches E-mu Emax SE & Yamaha V50.
Alternate Controllers Mixing MIDled & acoustic drums.
Digital Sampling Herb Jimmerson on sampling percussion.
Mind Over MIDI Lachlan Westfall on the MIDI Sample Dump Standard.
Making Tracks Brent Hurtig on that syncing feeling.
Software Steve De Furia on recycling bytes.
PRIVATE LESSONS
Rock Realities Patrick Leonard on making demos.
Jazz Piano Andy LaVerne on session routines.
Applied Theory William L. Fowler on 7th chords.
104 Contemporary Piano David Burge on Pierre Boulez.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
Mac Ear Training Software From Ars Nova, Resonate, and Coda.
Opcode Vision Mac sequencer software.
MusicBoxFree IBM algorithmic software.
Aphex Feel Factory MIDI rhythm processor.
Spatial Sound SP-1Multi-channel panner.
DEPARTMENTS
Guest Editorial Copyright your patches! 14 Reader Tips
Creative Options Freff tells the truth about writer's block.
HOWARD JONES & KEITH EMERSON: AN HISTORIC ENCOUNTE On the eve of an international concert tour, with hit singles from Cross That Line filling the air, Howard Jones agreed to a Keyboard interview. Imagine his surprise when superstar rocker Keith Emerson showed up as our special correspondent.
WORLD VIEW On the road with the Who. Depeche Mode's Alan Wilder goes it alone. Synth pioneer Bernie Krause tunes into nature. New twists on duo piano. And late-breaking news from around the world.
DIGITAL SIGNAL PROCESSING Ever wonder what exactly is going on inside your wonderful new digital axes? We spill the beans on DSP, and take a look at how such effects as reverb, EQ, and delay originate in the digital domain. Includes a glossary of key DSP terms.
JERRY LEE LEWIS: A MOVIEGOER'S COMPANION Two solo transcriptions - one from the hit summer film Great Balls Of Fire, the other from a classic '50s single-capture the essence of Lewis's frenzied proto-rock piano artistry.
HOW TO INSURE YOUR GEAR 49 Answers to ten key questions will help you find an insurance
policy that you can trust.
GIVEAWAY Win a day in the studio with Chick Corea!
JOE SAMPLE: ON HIS OWN CRUSADE The Sghts on Constructing solos, and a defense of easy-
listening jazz from a veteran funk fusionist. Plus a transcribed solo from Sample's smash album Spellbound.
YOUR FIRST SYNTH: A BUYER'S GUIDE It's easy to make mistakes when purchasing your first elec-
tronic keyboard. But with the right approach, you can be sure you're buying what you really need.
TECHNOLOGY
Mind Over MIDI Lachlan Westfall on computer interfaces.
Computers Jeff Rona on modems.
Making Tracks Brent Hurtig on noise reduction.
Digital Sampling Herb Jimmerson on sampled percussion.
Software Steve DeFuria on user input routines.
PRIVATE LESSONS
Alternate Controllers. Inside M with Joel Chadabe & David Zicarelli.
Technique Jeff Pressing on fourths.
Jazz Piano Andy LaVerne on the Maggio method.
Theory: William L. Fowler on horn fifths.
Contemporary Piano David Burge on Boulez' Third Sonata.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
E-mu Proteus Sample player/ synthesizer.
Ensoniq VFX Digital synth with signal processing.
Anatek Pocket products.
Frontal Lobe M1 sequencer expander & disk drive.
NAMM '89: WELCOME TO TOMORROW
Forget bells and whistles: The new bottom line is about making gear that makes music. From the front line at last summer's National Association of Music Merchants show, Keyboard reports on the dawn of a new era in equipment design, based on the real needs of musicians.
WORLD VIEW
New twists in keyboard configuration. Todd Rundgren rediscovers live recording. The world's largest piano. Plus Leonard Cohen, John Tesh, and news flashes from around the world.
PIANO RESTORATION: MAGIC IN ACTION
A photo study captures the artistry of piano craftsmanship as a bat- tered vintage Steinway is nursed back to mint condition.
FRONT 242
Rising from the rubble of the techno-industrial collision, this Belgian band slams out ferocious electronic dance music with a mes- sage. Synthesist Patrick Codenys dissects his group's belief in sampling as a means of self-awareness, and their devotion to "white rhythms."
OFF THE RECORD: "CARIBE"
Latin jazz sensation Michel Camilo runs the gamut from romance to razzle-dazzle in this steaming solo piano transcription.
READER SOUNDPAGE CONTEST
Your chance to be heard by the top movers, shakers, and players in the music industry.
RICK WAKEMAN
Long missing from action, a prog rock colossus surges back into the charts with Anderson Bruford Wakeman Howe, and onto the pages of Keyboard with provocative comments about modern rock, trends in technology, and the legacy of Yes.
TECHNOLOGY
Vintage Synths Bob Moog remembers the Minimoog.
Making Tracks Brent Hurtig on noise reduction.
Patches Classic sounds on modern instruments.
Mind Over MIDI Lachlan Westfall on MIDI spec updates.
Software Steve De Furia on multi-parameter input routines.
PRIVATE LESSONS
Applied Theory William L. Fowler on textures.
Technique Jeff Pressing on fifths.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
Digidesign Sound Tools Digital recording/editing system for the Mac.
Korg A3 Multi-FX signal processor
Yamaha FX500 Multi-FX signal processor.
Steinberg Synthworks M1 editor/librarian for Atari ST.
Shape of things to come
A pictorial taste of some of the hot new products unveiled at last month's British Music Fair.
Casio DA2 DAT recorder
Following hot on the heels of their DAI. Casio have now released the DA2 portable DAT recorder. Paul Ireson takes a look at what's new.
Roland D5 synthesizer
Roland's D5 is the latest addition to their range of LA synthesizers. Paul Ireson takes a look at a budget keyboard with some great features.
Studiomaster ProLine mixer
Offering 32 inputs on mixdown, four auxiliary sends, flexible EQ and the added benefit of a MIDI-controlled muting option, Studiomaster's ProLine 16.8.16 mixer has a lot going for it. Gareth Stuart checks it out.
Akai budget 24-track
Have you always wanted a 24-track studio but could never afford the gear? Well now, maybe you can. David Mellor looks at a package of equipment that offers 24 tape tracks at a budget price.
Mousterpiece software
If you're tired of playing keyboards and want a more imaginative way to create music, then this mouse-driven MIDI controller may prove an ideal alternative. Martin Russ investigates.
Virtuoso MIDI sequencer
Designed by musicians for musicians, The Digital Muse's long-awaited MIDI sequencer for the Atari ST offers 99 tracks, real-time multitasking operation, ultra-fast screen redraws, and a host of comprehensive features with which to make music. So does it live up to expectation?
Tony Banks
Keyboard player Tony Banks has been the foundation stone of Genesis' music for almost two decades now but has not experienced the same level of success in his work outside Genesis as past and present members of the band, Phil Collins, Mike Rutherford and Peter Gabriel. With two solo albums and numerous film scores behind him, Banks is set to bounce back into the limelight with a fresh, new solo project. Brian Jacobs poses the questions...
Inside the Synclavier
David Mellor concludes his exploration of the world's most expensive musical instrument with an interview with a musician who can actually afford one, Simon Franglen.
Getting into Video
Is video a mystery to you? Would you like to dip a toe into its murky waters, or are you worried about getting out of your depth too quickly? In this new series David Mellor explains the essentials of synchronising audio to video, and finds out what it is like to upgrade a home studio to audio post-production standard.
Robert John Godfrey
Until their recent split, Robert John Godfrey was the keyboard maestro behind The Enid, whose massive underground following throughout Europe made them arguably the biggest cult band outside of the States. Frank Ellis met him to talk about his new residential studio, a solo career, and a new approach to recording.
Tape manipulation techniques
David Mellor unlocks the creative power of the reel-to-reel tape recorder.
System Exclusive explained
PART 6: Martin Russ continues his detailed investigation into the inner secrets of MIDI's most powerful messages.
Peter Gabriel
Mark J. Prendergast explores the recording process that surrounded Peter Gabriel's new album 'Passion' and takes a peep inside Gabriel's Real World studio complex.
Features
Real World. Peter Gabriel's Real World Studio is an impressive complex with an impressive equipment list. Engineer David Bottrill talks us through the contents of Peter Gabriel's rack, and much more.
Trevor Stainsby. From eight-track to New age CD. with no stages in between. Trevor Stainsby reveals how it was done.
Crosstalk DOD. The ideas behind the DOD design, straight from the team in Salt Lake City, USA.
Reviews
Casio DA2. Though much the same as the DAI, this new DAT machine has improved connections and other facilities, and looks pretty different too.
Arsonic Sigma 1.2. Automatic level setting may seem an esoteric function, but for the small specialist commercial studio or mastering facility, it could turn out to be a time-saver.
Beyer MPC60/3 Boundary Mic. A boundary effect mic with directional characteristics might sound too good to be true - but Beyer have done it.
Yamaha MR1642 This new desk from Yamaha boasts a traditional design, good noise specification, and is flexible enough to move from studio to stage with ease.
Time Machine Processors/ The Pro Activator and Dual Noise Gate/Fader/ Panner, two ex-H&SR projects get the full commercial treatment.
Crystal Dynamic Noise Filters. Two competitively priced noise reduction units from Germany.
Soundforms Sound Booths. A portable, modular sound isolation system you can configure for your own needs? Read on.
Anatek Pocket MIDI Processors A Pocket MIDI Merge, Pocket Pedal and Pocket MIDI Filter, for a mere £89 each, and they don't even need batteries.
Sansui WSXI. Sansui hit pro-audio for the first time with an unusual but valid approach to multi-tracking-six tracks on cassette.
Studiomaster Studiofex. There is life after Tantek, as Studiomaster are determined to prove with this neat little modular effects system.
ART SGE. The ability to have nine effects at once may seem a little extreme, but who knows? Once you've got used to the idea, you may not be able to live without it.
Workshop
Radio Breakthrough Plagued with phantom voices in your studio? Who you gonna call? Ben Duncan.
Combining Effects. You've got your brand new multi-effects unit and you're raring to go. But how do you know what effect works with what? Turn to page 72 and wonder no more.
COMMENT
The non-musician has taken a lot of stick from his educated counterparts, yet he's contributed a lot to musical progress. What separates musicians and non-musicians?
NEWSDESK
It comes by post, by fax, by phone and by word of mouth. Someone, somewhere is anxious to keep you informed of what's happening in the world of hi-tech music.
COMMUNIQUE
Letters of complaint, letters of appreciation - Communique is your chance to have your say in the world's leading music technology magazine.
COMPETITION RESULTS
Steinberg's Pro24 sequencing software, Dr T's "M" algorithmic composer and Akai's MX76 MIDI master keyboard have all been the stars of recent MT competitions, but who won 'em?
Appraisal
STUDIOMASTER MA36
Hands up if you've ever had to go MIDI troubleshooting - and if you'd like it to be easier next time. Gordon Reid examines the logical solution to sorting out MIDI problems.
BACK ISSUES
If you've missed it, didn't know about it or simply can't find it at the moment, this listing of MT's last three years will be invaluable.
E-MU SYSTEMS PROTEUS
E-mu's Proteus sample player has been one of the stars of recent trade shows, yet it's been in desperately short supply in the UK. Vic Lennard finds it's been worth the wait.
DR T'S X-OR
With the novelty wearing off dedicated software synth editors, the race is on to come up with the definitive generic editor. lan Waugh test-drives Dr T's entry.
ROLAND RHODES
In its day the Fender Rhodes changed the course of musical progress now Roland have resurrected and improved Harold Rhodes' classic electric piano. Simon Trask plays on.
TC MUSIC PUBLISHER
Aimed at the professional scorewriter, this scorewriting program for the Atari ST goes a long way towards making complex scores easy to handle. Ian Waugh goes public.
Music
CAN
In the '70s, Can paved the way for a generation of experimental electronic musicians. Simon Trask talks to Holger Czukay and Michael Karoli amidst the CD re- release of their entire back-catalogue and a new LP for '89.
808 STATE
England's North has consistently produced some of the most innovative electronic music. Simon Trask talks to a band set to take their place alongside New Order and Heaven 17.
OUT TAKES
Reviews of Kate Bush's latest album, the long-playing debut from Jesus Jones and live dates from techno's Inner City join the regular roundup of readers' demos in OutTakes.
Studio
TASCAM MM1
What's impressive, essential to any multi- keyboard setup and normally costs a fortune? Answer: a mixing desk. Tim Goodyer looks at a budget desk with a more than budget spec.
ART MULTIVERB II
Taking the Multiverb as their starting point, ART have a new multi-effects processor with which to enhance your music. lan Waugh says the verb is "to want".
Technology
AMIGA PROFILE
You hear so much about (and from) the Atari ST that it's tempting to believe it's the only computer used for making music. Michael Brooke takes a look at a powerful alternative - Commodore's Amiga.
CEDAR
As well as creating sound, digital technology can be used to rescue old or damaged recordings. Gordon Reid looks at a British system that's leading the world in audio restoration.
ON THE BEAT
More experiments with accents form the basis of this episode of MT's rhythmic soap opera. Nigel Lord beats a path for your drum machine.
PATCHWORK
Readers' own synth patches for Yamaha's CS40M and DX7S make up this month's Patchwork. If you've a favourite synth, why not submit a patch of your own and make it a star in Patchwork?
Features
Balance. A few pertinent lines about compiling your tracks into an album.
Brian Chatton. A classical keyboard training makes Brian Chatton a rather unusual proponent of New Age music.
Gus Dudgeon. Gus Dudgeon explains the logic behind the formation of Britain's Guild of Record Producers.
The Reality Behind Recording. Acoustic designer and researcher Phillip Newell, points out the pitfalls of trying to cut corners on studio design.
Robin Morton. Robin's Temple Studio is enjoying a degree of success in folk circles.
The Joys of Experimentation/ David Etheridge takes a nostalgic look back at the days when men were men, women were women and MIDI was just a new fashion in skirts.
Alan Murphy. John Harris talks to his childhood guitar hero about his venture into studio ownership.
Reviews
JL Cooper Fadermaster. MIDI gave you automation - Fadermaster gives you back your control.
Tascam 644 MIDlstudio.Tascam bring the Portastudio concept up to date.
Shadow SHP02 Guitar. A nicely made instrument with novel piezo bridge pick-ups.
Korg A3 Effects Processor. A powerful multi-effects processor that's equally valuable on stage or in the studio.
BBE 422 Sonic Maximiser. BBE have refined their psychoacoustic processor,
B&K 4006 and 40IIS Microphones. Already established as manufacturers of the finest measurement mics available, B&K are now trying to promote the admittedly new concept of tonal honesty in recording circles.
Bose Acoustic Wave Music System. Bose now rival the human intestine for the amount of tubing that can be tightly packed into a small space. Intrigued? So were we!
OBL Replacement Pick-ups. A studio test of a set of replacement Strat pick-ups.
Sound Workshop
Practical Soundproofing. Heavy theory is one thing, but if you have soundproofing problems, what can you really do about it?
Why Can't I Hear Anything? If you're always losing your signal somewhere in your mixing console, here are a few suggestions as to where it might have gone!
PZM Microphones. What are they, how do they work and where can we use them?
LAURIE ANDERSON
The empress of avant-garde, whose dominion now embraces the mainstream with Strange Angels, traces her evolution as a proto-keyboardist, and muses on the meaning of experimental music.
WORLD VIEW
Washington approves copyrights for patches. Gary Numan sets course for the '90s. Michel Petrucciani makes Music with Adam Holzman. Highlights from New Music America. The structural mastery of Ray Lynch. Plus bulletins from around the world.
MULTI-EFFECTS: A BUYER'S GUIDE
A quick reference chart to help you find the effects you need, and a
line-by-line explanation of what the specs mean.
MARGARET LENG TAN
An innovative young pianists seeks nothing less than to redefine the piano along lines suggested by Oriental thought and the philosophy of John Cage.
GIVEAWAY
Win a free Kawai MIDled grand piano & K4 synthesizer!
MEDIALINK
No, it’s not MIDI 2.0. But it might turn out to be something even bet ter a way to send MIDI, digital audio, video, and more on the same cable.
THE MANAGERIAL AGREEMENT
How to negotiate a successful management contract.
OFF THE RECORD: "I'M NOT SATISFIED"
Anatomy of a hit rhythm track, with transcription and analysis of Fine Young Cannibals' stripped-down style.
TECHNOLOGY
Patches Prophet-5, CZ- 101, and D-50.
Digital Sampling Herb Jimmerson on horn hits.
Making Tracks Brent Hurtig on near-field monitors.
Mind Over MIDI Lachlan Westfall on sys-ex struggles.
Vintage Synths Bob Moog on the Oberheim SEM module.
PRIVATE LESSONS
Jazz Piano Andy LaVerne on Santa Claus.
Applied Theory William L. Fowler on melodies.
Alternate Controllers Robert Zantay on programming for wind controllers.
Contemporary Piano David Burge on moldy figs.
Technique Jeff Pressing on sevenths.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
Portable DAT Decks Sony TCD-D10 Pro, Panasonic SV-255, & Casio DA-2.
Sample Editors Six software packages for IBM, Amiga, Mac, and Atari.
GFmusic IBM sequencer.
E-mu Emax II 16-bit sampler.
BILLY JOEL
Stubborn, opinionated, and once again high on the charts, the Piano Man trades licks with his critics and dissects his work on Storm Front in an exclusive Keyboard interview.
WORLD VIEW
An epochal pianist passes from the scene. An historic piano turns up in an abandoned barn. Rob Mullins defends L.A. jazzers. Mark Morgan soars with Starship. Wally Badarou and Level 42 ponder our Sound of the Month. A blues legend re- members the birth of boogie- woogie. Best bets from the un- derground. Plus news from around the world.
ALAN PASQUA
After years backing Dylan, subbing for Stan Kenton, and tearing up the L.A. session scene, Alan Pasqua dusts off his B-3, packs a tidy rack, and heads for the high ground of hard-core rock with Giant.
RHYTHM GROOVES
Tired of flailing around in search of the perfect rhythm track? These com- mon-sense tips can give your grooves the kick they've been missing.
READER POLL RESULTS
Meet the best players (and the hottest products) of '89.
PORTABLE KEYBOARDS AT A GLANCE
The essential lowdown on features and prices for portable home key boards, packed onto one handy chart.
PORTABLE KEYBOARDS: A CLOSER LOOK
What's hot and what's not about a dozen portable keyboards in a variety of price ranges.
INSTRUCTIONAL COLUMNS
IN THE STUDIO Jeff Lorber on synchronization.
VINTAGE SYNTHS Bob Moog on E-mu's modular synth.
APPLIED THEORY William L. Fowler on writing melodies.
MIND OVER MIDI Lachlan Westfall on MIDI patch bays.
EASY KEYBOARDS Larry Harms says, "Don't worry."
SONGWRITING Andy Widders-Ellis on demos.
SOUND DESIGN Michael Marans on inverted envelopes.
ALTERNATE CONTROLLERS Martin Hurni on the Synthophone MIDI sax.
IMPROVISATIONAL PIANO Robert L. Doerschuk on going your own way.
MAKING TRACKS Brent Hurtig answers reader questions.
STREET SMARTS Mark Stich on setting career goals.
DIGITAL SAMPLING Herb Jimmerson on guitar samples.
TECHNIQUE Jeff Pressing on sevenths.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
GAMBATTE MIDISTAR PRO Wireless MIDI system.
ROLAND U-20 Sample playback keyboard.
BBE SONIC BAXIMIZER Audio processor.
M1 EDITOR/LIBRARIANS For Atari, Amiga, IBM, & Macintosh.
MUSITRONICS M-EX Expansion board for D-50.
Shape of things to come A plethora of new hi-tech products to whet your appetite.
PLI Infinity Turbo Drive
Removable hard disks represent a cost-effective solution to data backup and storage problems for sampler owners. Kendall Wrightson takes a look at the PLI Infinity Turbo Drive in use with the Akai S1000.
Tascam stereo cassette decks
Let's face it, every studio needs a master cassette deck. Paul Ireson takes a look at Tascam's new mid-priced two and three-head machines.
Tascam 24-track tape recorder
Ever since the dark ages, prophets and soothsayers have been forecasting the Big One. Well here it is - Tascam's 24-track on one inch tape recorder. David Mellor investigates.
Recording Techniques
PART 2: Microphones. David Mellor cuts through the mythology of microphone techniques with some practical advice.
Kawai K4 synthesizer
Following on from the success of their extremely popular KI, Kawai have gone upmarket with the 16-bit K4. Tony Wride looks at the company's new flagship synth.
A visit from the Doctor
Al Hospers, chief executive officer of Dr.T's Music Software in Boston, paid a flying visit to the recent PC Show during a whirlwind tour of Europe. Paul Gilby asks him about the past, present and future activities of this prolific music software house.
Yamaha SY77 synthesizer
The DX7 captured musicians' imaginations like no other synthesizer before or since. But the legacy of releasing endless variations on the DX theme has turned some musicians away from FM synthesis and into the waiting arms of a new generation of 'sample plus synth' keyboards. Now Yamaha are back with a vengeance, an even more powerful method of synthesis (Real-time Convolution and Modulation), and a spanking new flagship synth. But has the SY77 got what it takes to regain the hi-tech musician's vote? Martin Russ finds out.
Gajits Sequencer One
Another ST sequencer? David Hughes looks at the Gajits Sequencer One, and finds out how it measures up to the competition.
Working with MIDI Time Code
Just as MIDI itself has gone far beyond what its developers imagined, so MIDI Time Code has the potential to take MIDI technology into areas quite removed from the synthesis and sequencing worlds in which it has become so familiar. MTC user Paul D. Lehrman explains how.
Getting into Video
PART 5: In this final installment of the series, David Mellor looks at sophisticated timecode generators and readers in the Fostex range, and at complex timecode systems.
Alesis MIDIverb III effects
This latest release from the purveyors of low-cost signal processing is more a reverb unit with supplementary effects than a full-function multi-effects processor. Paul Ireson journeys into deep space to check it out.
System Exclusive explained
PART 10: Martin Russ continues his in-depth demystification of these powerful MIDI messages with a look at 'handshaking'.
Patchbay Studios
There can be few home recordists who haven't spent a few idle moments thinking about how nice it would be to run their own professional 24-track studio. Mick Belford of Patchbay explains how determination can turn such a dream into reality.
VINCE CLARKE
A decade after launching the techno movement with Depeche Mode, Clarke still rides the crest of synth-pop innovation with Erasure. Here, he analyzes his work on Wild!, and explains his fascination with duos, vintage analog gear, and the lingering power of punk.
WORLD VIEW
Onstage with Arsenio Hall's Posse. On the set of Harlem Nights with Herbie Hancock. On the floor at AES. And on-line with news up- dates from around the world.
KURZWEIL K1000 CLINIC
A step-by-step guide through envelopes, controller routings, and modular effects, leading toward creation of a multi-layered Patch of Doom.
CHASING THE JAZZ TRAIN
Six giants of jazz piano argue, laugh, expound, debate the credentials of Josef Zawinul, and ultimately ponder the unfathomable mystery of their music.
TONY BANKS
Despite the glossy polish of his most recent solo effort, Bankstatement, this prog-rock veteran insists that his integrity is intact. But after 20 years of big-time fame with Genesis, Banks wonders whether anyone still "desires to hear me play lots of keyboards."
INSTRUCTIONAL COLUMNS
DIGITAL SAMPLING Herb Jimmerson on TR-style drum programming.
APPLIED THEORY William L. Fowler on writing chromatic melodies.
KEYBOARD TECHNIQUE Jeff Pressing on octaves.
ALTERNATE CONTROLLERS Steve Shepard on sYbil.
PATCHES DEP-5, REV5, and LXP-1.
SOUND DESIGN Michael Marans on LFO tricks.
SONGWRITING Andy Widders-Ellis on creating chord progressions.
MIND OVER MIDI Lachlan Westfall on MIDI implementation charts.
IMPROVISATIONAL PIANO Robert L. Doerschuk on Jelly Roll Morton.
IN THE STUDIO Jeff Lorber on MIDI arranging.
VINTAGE SYNTHS Mark Vail on the Sequential Prophet-5.
STREET SMARTS Mark Stich on chord charts.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
KORG T1 Sample-playing synth.
TASCAM 688 & 644 Multitrack cassette recorder/mixers.
MAGNETIC MUSIC PRISM IBM sequencer.
DR. T's TIGER Atari sequence-editing software.
LESLIE SIMULATORS Avalanche Brianizer, Dunlop Rotovibe, & Dyna- cord CLS 222.
TWELVE TONE SYSTEMS CAKEWALK IBM sequencer.
Shape of things to come
A plethora of new hi-tech products to whet your appetite.
Casio VZ synthesizers
If you're tired of sampled sounds and are searching for a source of non-imitative synthetic voices to balance your repertoire, these low-cost instruments could well deliver the goods. Martin Russ finds out.
Composer's Desktop Project
The CDP is a non profit-making co-operative formed by a group of professional composers and researchers at York University, whose intention was to create an affordable personal workstation - a 'desktop IRCAM' - on which to run powerful synthesis and signal processing programs. Richard Dobson reveals the power of this Atari ST-based system.
Replay Professional
Martin Russ checks out this update to the popular ST Replay sampler.
Dynacord ADS sampler
The ADS sampler has the look and feel of a German sports car - expensive, no-nonsense, and high performance. Craig Anderton takes it for a test drive.
Chameleon universal patch librarian
Tired of rummaging through RAM cards and boxes of floppy disks in search of a particular synth patch? Greg Truckell checks out a far more convenient way to store and recall patches.
Mixing in the MIDI Age
This two-part feature covers both the art and technology of mixing. The first article on page 48, 'Mixing Essentials', covers audio mixing in general, from a more basic level, and applies to any sort of studio mixing task. The second part, 'Mixing With MIDI', starts on page 54 and covers techniques made possible by MIDI, specifically automated mixing and sending MIDI instruments direct to your master tape. Craig Anderton is your guide.
Recording Techniques
PART 3: David Mellor looks at arranging tricks and techniques with an eye to achieving a better recording.
SY77- RCM Synthesis explained
In this second part of our in-depth review of the SY77 synthesizer, Martin Russ delves into Yamaha's ultra new synthesis method: Real-time Convolution and Modulation.
System Exclusive explained
PART 11: Martin Russ explains how he overcame some puzzling MIDI problems on a Kawai R50 drum machine, and takes a SysEx eyes' view of the Alesis DataDisk.
Advanced MIDI Amiga Sampler
Got an Amiga? Want a sampler? Then cast your beady eye over this one. Greg Truckell is your guide.
Making the most of your Kawai KI
How would you like to hear a filter sweep, or digital delay effects, coming from your Kawai KI? Greg Truckell looks at how to make a KI do six impossible things before breakfast.
Daniel Lanois
Via engineering and production work with Brian Eno, Peter Gabriel, Robbie Robertson and U2, Daniel Lanois has unmistakenly imprinted his personality on the sound of the Eighties. Recently he released his own solo album, 'Acadie': Mark J. Prendergast runs through the tracks.
Software Support
Two jam-packed pages of hints and tips from the world of music software.
The Music Network
News of the latest activities on the musicians' electronic mail network.
Sounding Off
This month WX7 player Jim Mackay sounds off about Alternative Controllers.
Shape Of Things To Come
Your Chance To Check Out Some Of The New Products Launched At January's Namm Show In Los Angeles.
Sansui 10-Track Package
Combine Two 6-Track Cassette Recorders, One Synchroniser And A 12:6:2 Mixer, And What Have You Got? A Rather Appealing Multitrack Demo Studio From Sansui. David Lockwood Reports.
Peavey Autograph
The New Peavey Autograph Not Only Analyses Your Eq Problems, It Fixes Them Too! David Mellor Investigates.
Digital Multitrack In Wales
David Mellor Takes A Day Trip To The University College Of North Wales In Bangor To Visit The First Studio In Britain To Take Delivery Of An Akai Dr1200 Digital Multitrack Recorder.
Shure Beta Microphones
Shure's Sm58 And Sm57 Microphones Are Recognised Industry Standards. Although Many Rival Manufacturers Have Tried To Improve On These Classics, All Have Seemingly Failed. Now Shure Themselves Are Attempting To Go One Better With Their Recently Introduced Beta Models. Dave Lockwood Sees How They Fare In Comparison.
Yamaha Tg55 Tone Generator
The Recent Launch Of Yamaha's New Flagship Synth, The Sy77, Seems To Have Somewhat Eclipsed The Arrival Of Its Sibling, The Tg55 Tone Generator. Rightly Or Wrongly, The Tg55 Has Taken Something Of A Backseat Whilst Its Big Brother Hogs Most Of The Limelight.
David Hughes Assesses Its Star Potential.
Recording Techniques
Part 4: David Mellor Takes A First Step Into The Wide World Of Multitrack Recording With An Explanation Of Cassette-Based 4-Track Techniques.
Dr.T's Tiger Software
You Don't Have To Be A Kcs Owner To Benefit From Tiger. If Your Atari Sequencer Lacks Graphical Editing Facilities But Implements Midi Files, Then Real-Time Editing Of Sequence Data Is Still Possible. Chas Stoddard Explains All.
Alesis 1622 Mixer
Alesis Are Known, More Than Anything, For Their Digital Signal Processing Expertise, Yet Their New Mixer Is An All Analogue 16:2:2 Design But Employing A Revolutionary Construction Technique. Paul Ireson Lends An Ear.
Yamaha Fx500 Multi-Effects
The Best Things Come In Small Packages, Decides Paul Ireson As He Puts This Budget Six-Effects-At-Once Processor Through Its Paces.
Roland's Computer Music Range
Martin Russ Looks At The Evolution Of Roland's Approach To Computers In Music, Culminating In Their Latest Cm Products.
A Guide To Sample Cds
Not All Sampler Owners Have Access To Every Instrument They Might Wish To Sample, Hence The Appearance Of Sample Cds Containing All Manner Of Digitally Recorded Sounds. But How Useful Are They? Are They Value For Money? Keyboardist Dave Stewart Recently Spent Many Hours
Sorting The Wheat From The Chaff. Here Are His Findings.
Art Multi-Effects
Dave Lockwood Casts His Eye Over This Brace Of Midi Controllable Multi-Effects Processors From Art.
System Exclusive Explained
Part 12: Martin Russ Concludes This 12-Part Series Designed To Demystify One Of Midi's Most Important And Useful Messages.
Roedelius
One Of The Pioneers Of The German Electronic Music Scene, Hans Joachim Roedelius's Use Of Electronic Keyboards To Treat Sound, Create Atmospheres, And Provide Sonic Backdrops Has Evolved Through Collaborations With The Likes Of Conny Plank, Peter Baumann And Brian Eno. Mark J. Prendergast Discovers More About
The Man And His Music.
Shape Of Things To Come
Another Glimpse Of Forthcoming Products From The Hi-Tech Music And Recording Worlds.
Soundcraft 6000 Mixer
It May Not Be A New Product, But Recent Events In The World Of 24-Track Recording Look Like Giving The Soundcraft 6000 Console A Newfound Popularity. David Mellor Investigates.
Dr.T's Tiger Cub Sequencer
Combining Some Of The Best Features Of Dr.T's Kcs Sequencer And Tiger Editor, Along With A Handy Auto-Scoring Utility, This 12-Track 'entry Level' Program Packs An Awful Lot Of Power For Its Low Price. Game Warden David Hughes Tracks It Down.
Rick Wakeman
Session Player Julian Colbeck Tells The Tale Of How He Got The Gig As Support Keyboard Player For Rick Wakeman On The Recent Anderson, Bruford, Wakeman, Howe World Tour, And Runs Through The Instrumentation He And Rick Used On Stage.
Midi Data Portability
Thinking Of Changing Drum Machines, Adding A New Synth To Your Midi Setup. Or Buying A New Sequencer? Paul Andreas Overaa Outlines Some Sensible Tips To Help You Remove The Need To Edit Your Sequences Every Time You Change Your Equipment.
Rane Midi Programmable Equaliser
Dynamic Midi Control Of Eq Curves Is Only One Of The Creative Benefits Of This Stereo 14-Band Equaliser, Which Offers Tremendous Tone-Shaping Power To Those Enlightened Enough To Explore Its Functions. Dave Lockwood
Sees The Light And Reports Back.
Yamaha Sy22 Vector Synthesizer
If You're One Of Those Musicians Who Recall The Prophet Vs Synthesizer With Misty-Eyed Affection, Then You'll Probably Welcome Yamaha's Decision To Resurrect Vector Synthesis On This Latest Addition To Their Sy Range. Paul Ireson Checks Out This Blast From The Past.
Mass Storage Devices
Kendall Wrightson Examines A New Range Of Scsi Storage Devices From Diki Devices, Designed For Use With The Latest Generation Of High Quality Samplers And The New Direct To Disk And Random Access Recorder/Editors.
Recording Techniques
Part 7: David Mellor Puts A Typical Band Into A Typical Studio And Looks At The Various Stages Of Recording, From Initial Planning Up To
Instrumental Overdubs.
Michael Brook Infinite Guitarist
Inventor Of The Infinite Guitar', This Canadian Born Player's Haunting Multi-Layered Guitar Parts Have Graced The Works Of Such Luminaries As Brian Eno, Jon Hassell, U2's Edge, And Daniel Lanois, Though Michael Brook's Own Music Has Yet To Receive The Recognition It Deserves.
Mark J. Prendergast Reports.
Sos Bookshop
JONATHAN CAIN
After writing hits and pounding piano riffs with Journey, Cain is back on the stadium circuit with a pile of key- boards and a new chart-busting band, Bad English. So what's next for this world-class rocker... an album of new age wedding music?!
WORLD VIEW
Retro keyboards overrun L.A. studios. Blues B-3 prodigy grows up. Greek legends sing through bowed pianos. And lots of other stuff happens all over the world.
MIXER SHOOTOUT
Bench tests of frequency response,noise, and crosstalk for nine popular boards, plus feature comparisons and hands-on evaluations by our panel of opinionated experts.
RYUICHI SAKAMOTO
Eastern influences abound on Beauty, the latest release from one of rock's most intriguing keyboardists. But don't make the mistake of pigeonholing him as a Japanese artist; this veteran innovator has left his homeland far behind.
GERSHWIN GOES MIDI
Thanks to modern music technology and the dedication of one music scholar, a catalog of long-forgotten improvisations recorded by George Gershwin has been brought back to life, by a process nearly as fascinating as the music itself.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
BOSS DR-550 Programmable drum machine.
BUCHLA THUNDER MIDI performance controller.
KAT DRUMKAT MIDI percussion controller.
INSTRUCTIONAL COLUMNS
SONGWRITING There goes rhymin' Andy Widders-Ellis.
COMPUTERS ONLINE Carter Scholz visits MacWorld Expo.
EASY KEYBOARDS Larry Harms waltzes through "It's a Small World."
MIND OVER MIDI Lachlan Westfall forecasts new MIDI messages.
APPLIED THEORY William L. Fowler offers modal models.
STREET SMARTS Mark Stich on how to play auditions.
IMPROVISATIONAL PIANO Robert L. Doerschuk gets the blues.
SOUND DESIGN Michael Marans finds new uses for percussion samples.
BEYER DT770 STUDIO HEADPHONES
These powerful, enclosed phones also deliver an impressive quality of sound, making them good all-rounders in the studio.
SOUNDTRACS QUARTZ CONSOLE This in-line console is aimed at the costconscious professional 24-track user who doesn't want to compromise on quality or facilities.
PEAVEY PRM 308S MONITORS Peavey's compact three-way monitors compare favourably with other monitors within their price range and give good results in a small studio.
SHURE SM90/91 BOUNDARY MICROPHONES These two models give the choice of omni or directional application while still offering the advantages of boundary operation.
E-MU PROTEUS XR For quality samples without the hassles of sampling, the Proteus XR takes a
lot of beating.
BEHRINGER DENOISERS Two useful single-ended noise reduction units that turn out to be very cost effective and practical.
Features
PROS AND CONS OF SAMPLING Continuing this short series, we turn our attention to samplers and examine their strengths and weaknesses.
USING THE E-BOW This electronic alternative to the plectrum has been around for some years but it really comes into its own in the studio.
ATC CROSSTALK Ashley James and Bill Woodman explain exactly why it is that ATC monitor speakers sound like no other moving coil design.
IMPACT STUDIOS With the world of commercial studios becoming ever more competitive, the owners
of this studio decided that they needed to offer something a little bit special to attract the clients.
THE GREAT EGGBOX FALLACY Philip Newell takes us through a conversion job at Shambles Studio while dispelling some of the popular soundproofing myths.
MIKE STEVENS Mike is a working producer, session musician and engineer whose home studio relies
heavily on the Digidesign Sound Tools hard-disk editing system.
IN THE PICTURE David Etheridge looks at the practicalities of working with video.
Shape Of Things To Come
A Colourful Round-Up Of What's New In The Hi-Tech Recording Arena.
Ensoniq Sq1 Personal Music Studio
Ensoniq Don't Bombard The Market With Products - They Take Their Time And Get It Right. Paul Ireson Casts An Eye Over Their New Sq1 Workstation
Dave Stewart's Music Seminar
Famed Keyboardist Dave Stewart Begins This New Series Designed To Give You A Few More Compositional Ideas Than You Maybe Had Before!
Vangelis
With Some 17 Solo Albums To His Credit, As Well As Two Ballets, Five Collaborations With Jon Anderson, And Film Soundtracks That Include 'blade Runner' And The Oscar-Winning 'chariots Of Fire, Vangelis Has Continually Explored The Creation Of Musical Forms Via The Integration Of The Acoustic With The Electronic. Recently, He Took Time Out To Talk About His Own Work Methods And Express His Views On The Current Technological Scene. Richard Buskin Asks The Questions.
Recording Techniques
Part 8: David Mellor Explains Several Techniques For Taming That Most Difficult Of Instruments To Record - The Drum Kit.
Behringer Studio Processors
There's Not A Midi Socket In Sight On This Range Of German Studio Units. They Are Simply Good Solid Audio Processors. Dave Lockwood Checks Them Out.
Prism 16-Track Pc Sequencer
David Mellor Unplugs His Atari And Tries His Hand At Sequencing On A Pc, Using Magnetic Music's 16-Track Prism Sequencer.
Dr.T's Keyboard Controlled Sequencer
One Music Software House That Showed Greater Awareness And Belief In The Commodore Amiga From The Outset Was Dr.T. David Ellis Checks Out Version 3.0 Of Their Top-Of-The-Range Sequencer To See How It Rates Against The Growing Competition.
Masterbits Sample Cd Collection
David Hughes Lends An Ear To Three Well-Priced Cds Full Of Synthesizer And Drum Machine Samples.
Roland D70 Super La Synthesizer
The D50 Was Never Going To Be An Easy Act To Follow, But A Successor To The Title Of Roland's Flagship Has Now Arrived. Richard Lamont Puts It To The Test.
Beyer Tgx Microphones
Sound Engineer Gareth Stuart Assesses This Budget-Conscious Range Of Performance Microphones.
Roland S770 Sampler
Roland's Flagship Sampling Module Boasts An Impressive Specification, And Its Page-Based Screens Are Oddly Reminiscent Of The Famous Fairlight. Kendall Wrightson Finds Out How Impressive It Is In The Flesh.
Propaganda
Back In 1985, Propaganda Made An Astonishing Debut With 'dr. Mabuse', And The Classic Album 'a Secret Wish'. After Years Of Silence, A Split With Ztt Records, And The Departure Of Three-Quarters Of The Original Line-Up, Michael Mertens Is Back With A New-Look Propaganda, And Feeds The Party Line To Nigel Humberstone.
Sansui Mdr7 Midi-To-Tape Synchroniser
Dave Lockwood Casts A Critical Eye Over This Low-Cost Midi/Tape Sync Box From Sansui.
YAMAHA MT100II Yamaha's latest no-frills cassette multitracker.
ART MULTIVERB LT AND DRX Two versatile multi-effects units, one using presets, the other fully programmable.
DRAWMER DL241 COMPRESSOR We grab the very first unit off the line and find that beneath the conventional exterior hides a veritable plethora of innovative features.
EVS-1 SYNTHESISER MODULE It's multitimbral, it's programriable and it even comes bundled with its own Atari editing software - yet it still retails at under £300!
SOUNDTECH ST15 EQ GRAPHIC A general-purpose graphic equaliser, featuring two independent 15-band equalisers in a 1U rack format.
ATC SCM20 MONITORS These compact monitors almost certainly set new standards for two-way speaker design and are ideally suited to any serious studio where large monitors are impractical.
DAC HARD DISK If you're into hard disk recording, you'll need a hard disk - and a big one at that.
AKAI XR10 DRUM MACHINE How does Akai's first stand-alone drum machine stand up to the ompetition?
FOSTEX 454 MIXER A new 8-channel desk from Fostex, with a variety of recording and A/V applications.
BEYER TGX SERIES MICROPHONES This completely new range of dynamic microphones uses Neodymium technology to offer increased performance.
Features
PROS AND CONS OF DIGITAL AUDIO What advantages does digital signal processing and recording really offer over analogue?
ANNETTE PEACOCK Despite these enlightened times,music production still seems to be a man's world or is it?
LATERALLY MIXING
We are usually told that a large multitrack needs a large mixing console, but there are alternatives.
APRS SHOW REPORT In the short time between the Frankfurt music fair and the APRS show, several interesting new developments have appeared.
PUBLIC ENEMY
Their rhymes shake up Middle America; their agenda outrages Zionists, gays, and even the R&B aristocracy. Now check out the music behind the furor, as Public Enemy's Chuck D and production wizard Hank Shock- lee discuss the "anti-art" of rap and the making of Fear of a Black Planet.
WORLD VIEW
The Beloved hip-hop to house grooves. David Benoit swings in ab- sentia on Disklavier. Four pianists dash through "Dizzy Fingers" and
gallop through Gershwin. Geddy Lee boots up his stage rig. Plus news from around the world.
THE ART OF CATASTROPHIC CHANGE
Eastern Europe, South Africa, Western classical traditions, and head-spinning visuals collide in the October opening of George Coates' latest poly-cultural, multi-media extravaganza.
ANDY LAVERNE'S JAZZ LICKS
One of New York's top jazz pianists dishes out a pile of licks guaranteed to add sizzle to your solo lines.
BRUCE HORNSBY
The man who brought piano solos back into mainstream rock tones down the acoustic side of his music on A Night on the Town. But his synth sound is as homespun as they come, and stories still count for more than se- quences when you're cooking with the Range.
THE INCREDIBLE SHRINKING NAMM
Maybe it's the greenhouse effect that's withering the summer show. Even so, there was still lots of gear to gawk at and plenty to ponder at last June's National Association of Music Merchants conclave.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
DR. T'S BEYOND Macintosh sequencer.
KORG WAVESTATION Wave sequencing and vector synth.
YAMAHA SY22 Vector synth.
SHORT TAKES Ensoniq SQ-1 & Turbo DW.
INSTRUCTIONAL COLUMNS
ALTERNATE CONTROLLERS Charles Bisharat on MIDI violin.
COMPUTERS ON-LINE Carter Scholz explores Atari ST multitasking.
SONGWRITING Andy Widders-Ellis puts the wrap on lyrics.
STREET SMARTS Mark Stich's tips on transcribing melodies and solos.
APPLIED THEORY William L. Fowler muses over modes.
VINTAGE SYNTHS Mark Vail on the Linn LM-1.
SOUND DESIGN Michael Marans introduces mixing with- out mixing.
TECHNIQUE Jeff Pressing knows his thumbs.
MIND OVER MIDI Lachlan Westfall on MIDI automation.
PATCHES CZ-101, K3, & Matrix-6.
AUDIO TECHNICA ELECTRET MICS A few samples of Audio Technica's budget mics intended for the home
video market.
TASCAM DA30 This fully professional DAT recorde looks like a good contender for the title of industry standard, even though Sony's DTC1000 has had a head start.
FOSTEX 2016 LINE MIXER It's simple, it's effective, and it's affordable.
APHEX STUDIO CLOCK A tempo-tracking, SMPTE/MIDI unit that can make sense of a human drummer (well, almost!)
DIGITECH DSP256 A programmable multi-effects unit that combines sound quality with ease of use.
FRIENDCHIP SRC AT The grown-up's answer to SMPTE/MIDI synchronisation.
STUDIOMASTER TRACKMIX A serious 24-track console at a lighthearted price.
STUD SOFTWARE Digidesign's STUD software adds some very useful facilities to the basic Mac Sound Tools system.
CHEETAH SX16 SAMPLER On the face of it, this inexpensive sampler offers the benefits of 16-bit sampling plus compatibility with other popular sampler disks.
ATARI SOUND TOOLS A brief look at this low-cost alternative to the Mac Sound Tools hard disk,
digital editing system.
Features
TREVOR VALLIS The owner of Turning Point studio talks about the tea-boy route to professional engineering.
BMF REPORT Not the most astounding music show of all time, but there were gems to be found nevertheless.
PROS AND CONS OF DAT DAT is a wonderful recording medium, but it has its shortcomings like any other.
RECORDING VOCALS A step-by-step guide to getting a good vocal sound on tape.
TAM is a privately-owned mastering facility run by devotee Tony Batchelor and his wife Myrtle.
TANNOY 12 DMT MONITORS As Tannoy have gone to so much trouble to completely redesign their monitors, we thought it only fair to see how they sounded.
YAMAHA TG55 EXPANDER Yamaha seem to be creating quite a stir with their new SY range of synthesisers and this multitimbral module looks set to become a particularly successful spin-off.
FOSTEX G16 RECORDER The latest 16-track from Fostex has more bells and whistles than a steam organ that's recently had a load of bells nailed onto it!
PEAVEY COMPRESSOR DE-ESSER This unit combines ease of use and low cost with the ability to get the job done.
DIGITECH GSP5 EFFECTS UNIT A guitar multi-effects unit that also sounds good in the studio.
BEYER MC742 STEREO MIC Based on the same capsules used in the highly acclaimed MC740, this dedicated stereo mic has a host of studio and location recording applications.
JL COOPER SYNCMASTER A combined MIDI interface and SMPTE reader/generator for the Mac.
VESTAX SOUND DOME If you're a knobs and switches fan but you don't need programmability or MIDI, then this reverb could appeal to you.
Features
NICK MAGNUS & CHRIS COZENS Derek Johnson talks to Chris Cozens and Nick Magnus about the practicalities of making a best-selling record at home.
PROS AND CONS OF SINGLE ENDED NOISE REDUCTION Just how much noise can you remove from a recording before the processing becomes noticeable?
STEPHEN BOND Technical Director of Siderise, suppliers of specialist acoustic materials, Stephen has a lot of experience in studio design.
NIKKI GRAHAM John Harris talks to the man some may think of as the Svengali behind Bros.
A BREATH OF FRESH AIR After a hot summer like this one,perhaps you might like to know what's
involved in installing air conditioning.
PENGUIN CAFE ORCHESTRA Paul Tingen talks to the chief penguin about the evolution of their distinctive musical approach.
Regulars
FAST FORWARD A glimpse at some of the new products on the horizon.
BABYFACE
More than just another pop icon, this R&B crooner dou- bles as half of the hottest production team outside of Minneapolis. And don't miss our transcriptions from some of his most memorable grooves.
WORLD VIEW
Under the Big Apple big top. Inside the MIDI Glove. Through new legal thickets in the session scene. And a crushing blow for sample lovers.
READER SOUNDPAGE CONTEST
Your chance to be heard in the pages of Keyboard and keep the vinyl era alive.
KEYBOARD CLINIC: OPCODE VISION Visionary tips on using this popular Mac sequencer to spice up your jazz chords, modulate tempos, generate rhythm patterns, and otherwise work wonders. Plus a special section on guitar controller applications.
PIANO TUNING BY MAIL: SCAM OR SOLID SERVICE?
You can learn to service your piano via correspondence instruction. Key- board's expert consultant reveals how the four top mail-order courses stack up.
OFF THE RECORD: "BIG MAC"
Rollin' and strollin' on the keys, and reminiscing about times gone by: Mac "Dr. John" Rebennack evokes the elusive flavor of New Orleans.
THE VIEW FROM TWIN PEAKS
The strangest show on network TV owes much to the synth artistry of Kinny Landrum, who has an ear for the eerie and a taste for a strong cup of coffee.
INSTRUCTIONAL COLUMNS
APPLIED THEORY William L. Fowler gives modes a modern twist.
COMPUTERS ON-LINE Carter Scholz explores Keynote.
TECHNIQUE Jeff Pressing's trill drills.
VINTAGE SYNTHS Mark Vail on the EMS VCS3 & AKS.
MIND OVER MIDI Lachlan Westfall on drum machines.
IMPROVISATIONAL PIANO Robert L. Doerschuk's second take. on thirds.
EASY KEYBOARDS Larry Harms grooves on "Get Back."
STREET SMARTS Mark Stich on your band's identity.
SOUND DESIGN Michael Marans on fader emulation.
SONGWRITING Andy Widders-Ellis adds up the songwriter's ante.
POWER SEQUENCING Craig Anderton squeezes more data onto 16channels.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
E-MU PROFORMANCE Digital piano module.
SCORPION SYSTEMS SYBIL Performance software for Mac, ST, IBM.
DECK Four-track tapeless digital recorder for the Mac.
SHORT TAKES Niche ACM MIDI-controlled mix- er, CueCube automated punch- in/out unit, Jeanius Electronics Bffect freq amp wid Russian Dragon timing reference device, Uptown Technologies Flash passive switching mixer.
TOUCHWOOD ACOUSTIC TILES Tastefully sculpted foam tiles for the fashion-conscious studio.
NEUMANN GFM132 BOUNDARY MIC If Neumann think it necessary to design a mic that looks like a giant plectrum, they're bound to have a good reason.
JL COOPER MACNEXUS A neat Macintosh MIDI interface.
BEHRINGER PROCESSORS A lightning tour of this company's gate, compressor and headphone amplifier.
KAWAI MX16 MIXER This compact little mixer combines advanced features with affordability.
JBL CONTROL 1+ A more accurate version of the original Control 1.
KINGSWOOD MIC AMP Just the thing If you need a portable, battery-powered mic preamp with phantom powering.
APHEX EXPRESSOR This very flexible, single-channel compressor performs with all the class
VESTAX MR300 Another contender in the fiercely contested, entry-level four-track cassette multitracker market.
FEATURES
BEHIND THE SCENES AT TEAC Returning from a cultural overload of pagodas, tornados and raw fish, your intrepid editor presents an insight into TEAC's product development philosophy.
IS IT ANY GOOD? A thesis on the intrinsic value of honest self-criticism in the context of commercial songwriting.
STEPHEN BOND The continuing saga of sound isolation and the underlying practicalities thereof!
TIM MATYEAR Tim runs Woodworm Studios, Fairport Convention's private studio, though how he came to be there is another story.
RAVEN RECORDING It's not the gear you have but the way you use it that keeps your clients coming back for more.
SYNTHESIZERS
DIGITAL EFFECTS Programmable and preset
PORTABLE KEYBOARDS
TAPELESS RECORDERS Hard-disk systems.
DAT RECORDERS
MIDI CONTROLLERS Keyboards, percussion controllers, and assorted oddities.
DIGITAL PIANOS
SAMPLERS
MULTITRACK CASSETTE RECORDERS. Digital and 4-, 6-, and 8-track analog.
OPEN-REEL RECORDERS For those who prefer real tracks to virtual ones.
SOFTWARE SEQUENCERS
HARDWARE SEQUENCERS
ADDITIONAL SOFTWARE Including notational, ear-training, educational, and other programs.
COMPUTER PERIPHERALS MIDI interfaces, sync devices, and oth- er items.
PERIPHERAL GEAR Sound processors, mixers, amplifiers, MIDI retrofits, MIDI automation devices, and all points between and beyond.
DRUM MACHINES
THIRD-PARTY EDITOR/LIBRARIANS & SOUNDS.
MANUFACTURER ADDRESSES For all products listed in this issue.
LETTERS Readers sound off on Public Enemy, the sales drought, and Jim Aikin's tips on composition.
WORLD VIEW Phil Johnstone upstages giant robots with Robert Plant. Gary Chang tempers Hollywood's hard sell with a dollop of discipline on Perfect Weapon. Myra Melford grows up in the shad- ows of Frank Lloyd Wright. Plus news from around the world.
features
Unveiling the Mystery: The Basics of Electronic Music Bewildered by the buzzwords and confused by the concepts? This month's cover story is dedicated to making it all perfectly clear by Dan Phillips
Multitrack Recording: The EM Primer Home recording is as easy as 1-2-3 with our back-to-basics guide by Amy Ziffer Sync or Swim: Synchronizing to Tape
Dramatically increase your recording power by learning how to lock together your sequencer and tape machine by Jeff Burger and Gary Hall
DIY: Power Panic Button for the EM IMP Get a fast fix for the dreaded MIDI Stuck-Note Syndrome by adding new functions to last November's MIDI merger/processor project by Paul Messick and John Battle
columns
The Computer Musician: Neural Networks and Computer Music Find out how this revolutionary software technology may hasten the arrival of truly interactive computer music performance
by Dave (Rudy) Trubilt
From the Top: What is MIDI, Anyway? Discover what the Musical Instrument Digital Interface really is and what it allows you to do by Bob O'Donnell
Service Clinic: Questions and Answers Problems with the SPX90, DW-8000, and service manuals are deftly handled. Special: a two-year index of previous Service Clinics by Alan Gary Campbell
reviews
First Takes and Quick Picks Symetrix SX208 Stereo Compressor/ Limiter, Music Writer 1.1 Notation Soft- ware, MIDIMAN Mini-Mixer
Roland S-770 Digital Sampler by Tim Tully
Passport's Sound Apprentice Sample-Editing Software by Nick Batzdorf
Digidesign Sound Tools Hard Disk Recording System for the Atari by Gary Hall
Dr. T's X-OR Universal Editor/ Librarian by Dennis Miller
PRINCE, KIND OF
So we couldn't get to the man behind Graffiti Bridge. Instead, we managed to corral his current keyboardists, longtime sideman Matt Fink and golden-throated newcomer Rosey Gaines. The re- sults proved even more revealing than an encounter with their no- toriously guarded boss might have been.
WORLD VIEW
Billy Idol keyboardist Bonnie Hayes breaks out with a rockin' solo album. Cirque du Soleil's René Dupéré orchestrates the dark side of fantasy. Front-line re- ports from the AES show. Plus bulletins from around the world.
KEYBOARD POLL RESULTS
Your choices for the top players and products of the past year.
OTTO LUENING
After nearly 90 years of innovative composition, the dean of American electro-experimental music is still raising eyebrows and breaking artistic barriers.
ANDRÉ PREVIN
Though this distinguished conductor surprised his peers and even himself by returning to his jazz piano past, he insists he'll never cross the line from quality music to the barbarism of pop.
KEYBOARD CLINIC: ROLAND S-550
An exhaustive investigation of the S-550's resources, with helpful advice on recording, looping, creating and using subtones, and much more.
INSTRUCTIONAL COLUMNS
TECHNIQUE Jeff Pressing keeps trilling.
COMPUTERS Carter Scholz looks into Windows 3.0.
SOUND DESIGN Michael Marans on managing sampler memory.
MIND OVER MIDI Lachlan Westfall on MIDI program change commands.
APPLIED THEORY William L. Fowler's transposition shortcut.
MAKING TRACKS Brent Hurtig's guide to artist demos.
POWER SEQUENCING Craig Anderton juggles multiple sequencers.
SONGWRITING Andy Widders-Ellis plows through his mailbag.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
UNIVERSAL EDITOR/LIBRARIANS Dr. T's X-OR and Hybrid Arts GenEdit.
OPCODE STUDIO VISION Mac sequencer and tapeless digital audio recorder.
ARTICULATE SYSTEMS VOICE NAVIGATOR Voice-controlled Mac interface.
150 BOSS SE-50 Multi-effects processor.
PATCHES E-MU Proteus and Yamaha TX81Z
ALESIS SR-16 DRUM MACHINE Not only have Alesis made their new drum machine smaller and cheaper, they've kitted it out with a huge range of sounds, many in stereo.
MONITOR TECHNOLOGY MT-1 MONITORS If you need small, powerful monitors that can do justice to serious mixing, then these might fit the bill - if you can afford the bill!
AIWA HD-S1 DAT Since its update, this little machine has become an even more attractive proposition.
ENSONIQ VFX-SD WORKSTATION This instrument is clean, versatile and packed with easy-to-use features
CARLSBRO PROMIX Carlsbro now manufacture a range of live sound and studio mixing consoles.
GALLIEN & KRUEGER ML260E GUITAR AMP This amp is small, powerful and flexible, which makes it as
much at home in the studio as it is on stage.
BOSS RE1000 & RV1000 ECHO AND REVERB These units are easy to use, inexpensive and sound great. What's the catch?
FEATURES
KIPPER: ONE NATION Nothing fishy about these chaps, as their recording success testifies.
JONATHAN BAKER Living proof that a classical upbringing is a useful background to recording.
ROOMS FOR IMPROVEMENTHow to achieve realistic ambience by using... real ambience.
STARTING FOUR-TRACK If you can't decide which machine is right for you, then start by reading this.
BOB PRIDDEN Record production is a mixture of many skills and dealing with technology isn't necessarily the most important.
HAPPY NEW YEAR Joe Hyde waxes lyrical about the effect of musical technology on his drinking habits!
RAY MANZAREK
Forget Oliver Stone: Doors keyboardist Ray Manzarek was there as the sem- inal '60s art rock band delved into the dark comers of America's psyche. But the patriarch of L.A. psychedelia is more concerned these days with the responsibilities of young musicians than with the shadows of the past. Check out his provocative views of things to come, and his historic hand- iwork on three classic transcribed Doors solos.
WORLD VIEW
Faith No More's Roddy Bottum pa- rades down the streets of San Francis- co. Bernie Worrell keeps funk alive. Dave Stewart gives the drummer none. KIT opens its doors. Plus bulletins from around the world.
CHOPS CLINIC: THE BERGMAN METHOD
No one plays like Borah Bergman, whose ambidextrous improvisations have been baffling pianists for years. This month the mystery ends, as Bergman shares his secrets on how to build total finger and hand indepen- dence.
NITZER EBB
The wunderkinden of proto-techno rock are back with a new album, a passel of punchy samples, and a sunnier view of post-industrial life.
SAMPLER CLINIC: POWER EFFECTS
Your sampler offers more than sounds. Michael Marans reveals how to turn it into a powerful effects generator and reverb processor.
INSTRUCTIONAL COLUMNS
SOUND DESIGN Michael Marans fixes the mix.
VINTAGE SYNTHS Mark Vail dusts off Ray Manzarek's gear.
IMPROVISATIONAL PIANO Robert L. Doerschuk drives the boogie down.
POWER SEQUENCING Craig Anderton questions quantizing.
ALTERNATE CONTROLLERS D'Cuckoo's unique mallet MIDI drivers.
COMPUTERS Carter Scholz boots up the Atari Stacy.
MAKING TRACKS Brent Hurtig dupes his demo.
SONGWRITING Andy Widders-Ellis reaches for help.
EASY KEYBOARDS Larry Harms chills at Ipanema.
TECHNIQUE Jeff Pressing unleashes the arpeggios.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
CODA FINALE 2.5 Notation software for Mac & IBM.
ENSONIQ EPS 16 PLUS 16-bit sampling keyboard.
REAL WORLD INTERFACES Modifications for Roland MT-32.
LEXICON LXP-15 Multi-effects digital signal processor.
PATCHES
Kawai K-1 & Casio VZ-1
ZOOM 9002 MULTI-EFFECTS If you thought half-rack units were compact, wait until you get a load of this!
TASCAM 488 PORTASTUDIO Finally a complete eight-track Portastudio for under £1000.
BEYER M201 MIC This unsung hero of the mic locker combines quality with modest cost.
HILL OMNIMIX MIXER Possibly the most compact 16:8:2 console we've seen, but no corners have been cut in the performance department.
INKEL MX1100 MIXER This mixer is designed for applications where specifications are more important than bells and whistles.
TASCAM MSR-24S RECORDER Since we reviewed the original MSR-24, a Dolby-S version has been released, offering even better sound quality.
ALESIS QUADRAVERB PLUS A software update has given the Quadraverb the ability to create a whole new set of effects.
SONIC IMAGES SAMPLE CDS If your sampler's hungry, you could do worse than feed it these samples.
E-MU PROFORMANCE PIANO MODULE Is this the ultimate in affordable sampled pianos?
RICHARD ALLAN RA-8 MONITORS These compact, sensibly priced monitors are designed to compete with the current favourite near-field monitor.
Features
RAFE MCKENNA With an enviable track record in engineering and production, Rafe is a firm believer in good microphone technique.
STATE OF THE ART This two-part series looks at the conflicting requirements of contemporary monitoring systems.
RICHARD ALLAN SPEAKER COMPETITION Answer a few simple questions and win a pair of RA-8 monitors.
THE JINGLE JUNGLE Jingle production can be lucrative, but it's not necessarily easy money!
DRUM MIKING ON A BUDGET You don't need a crate of expensive mics to get a decent drum sound.
CLEAN UP YOUR ACT II A few more hints and tips on how to keep your studio organised.
THE GRATEFUL DEAD
The most durable enigma in rock rolls toward its third decade with Vince Welnick, formerly of the Tubes, installed as its latest keyboardist. Welnick discusses the band's paradoxical style, Bruce Hornsby's sideman contributions, and the unique role played by MIDI tech Bob Bralove. Plus historical perspectives from two key- boardists with earlier Dead credits.
WORLD VIEW
The jangling juggling and hot-footed MIDI choreography of the Flying Karamazov Brothers. The tango reflections of Lounge Lizard Evan Lurie. Inside Germany's Grotrian piano factory. And Aaron Copland remembered.
SOUNDPAGE CONTEST WINNER
Low-budget working stiffs, take heart. The most impressive entry in this year's Soundpage Contest comes from a former lounge pianist with a day job, a Yamaha PF70, a Korg DW-8000, and a lot of imagination.
SUN RA
Keyboard visits the king of interstellar experimental jazz, who offers surprisingly down- to-Earth comments on orchestration, piano touch, and the power of "nerve music."
ENSONIQ EPS WORKSHOP
Two heavyweight programmers reveal their secrets on getting the most from this popular sampler-including 11 steps toward getting hot, hip hi-hat sounds.
HIP-HOP INNOVATORS
Hip-hop has outgrown its roots and spilled into territories once occupied by the most daring innovators of the avant-garde. Need proof? Check out the words and arrangement techniques of Digital Underground, De La Soul, and Coldcut.
INSTRUCTIONAL COLUMNS
TECHNIQUE Jeff Pressing unfurls more arpeggios.
ARRANGING Eric Turkel exposes the secrets of guitar phrasing.
COMPUTERS ON-LINE Carter Scholz plugs into the new Macs.
STREET SMARTS Mark Stich outlines the basics of rehearsing.
SOUND DESIGN Michael Marans prescribes anti- dotes for studio headaches.
IMPROVISATIONAL PIANO Robert L. Doerschuk on soloing over boogie bass lines.
VINTAGE SYNTHS Mark Vail gets a grip on the Yamaha CS-80.
SONGWRITING Andy Widders-Ellis boots up IdeaFisher.
POWER SEQUENCING Craig Anderton assembles a do-it-your- self MIDI fader.
EASY KEYBOARDS Larry Harms blows on "Boogie-Woogie Bugle Boy."
KEYBOARD REPORTS
KAWAI XD-5 Percussion synth module.
HYBRID ARTS ADAP II Direct-to-hard disk recording/editing system.
SOUND QUEST MIDIQUEST Universal editor/librarian.
KORGS S3 Sequencer/drum machine.
BOSS SE-50 MULTI-EFFECTS Designed for general live/recording applications, this half-rack processor turns in a very creditable performance.
ROCKTRON EXCITER This sensibly-priced exciter also contains a single-ended noise reduction system making it a very valuable home recording tool.
AHB SPECTRUM CONSOLE A cost-effective multitracking console with bags of features plus mute automation.
TASCAM PORTA 03 Tascam's entry level four-track may be slimmed down in the features department, but the basic performance is surprisingly good.
TANNOY NFM 2 MONITORS These, the smallest and cheapest monitors in the new Tannoy range, surprised us with their full, well-defined sound.
YAMAHA TG33 EXPANDER This rackmount MIDI expander is more than just an SY22 without a keyboard.
ALESIS MEQ-230 GRAPHIC EQUALISER A dual 30-band graphic equaliser in a 1U package!
Features
MIKE OLDFIELD A change in working methods sees Mike steering away from computers and back towards real musical performance.
NAMM 91 Edited highlights from America's biggest music show with news of some really hot new products.
DIRECT LINE The ins and outs of direct injection explained in everyday English.
ALESIS COMPETITION Win a Microverb III or one of two Micro Cue amps by answering a few simple questions.
THE SOFT OPTION? Derek Johnson explores the fiscal, ergonomic and creative merits of working with a hardware sequencer.
CONTROL ROOM DESIGN Philip Newell kicks off a major new series which examines various aspects of control room design.
KATE KOUMIE Kate is MD of London's Britannia Row recording complex and gives us an insight into the business side of keeping a large studio profitable.
DIGITAL PIANOS: THE FUTURE IS NOW Is the big wooden box already irrelevant? Will consumers start turning to sleek, neat ma- chines stocked with piano-like sounds? Key- board gathers seven top models in the digital piano market, stacks them up against the high standards of the acoustic grand, and reaches some surprising conclusions.
WORLD VIEW Skinny Puppy's Cevin Key's new noise rock project. 900-foot Jesus sees the light. Stereo sound goes 3-D. Akai spares Japanese forests. Plus bulletins from around the globe.
NAMM: DOIN' THE ANAHEIM HUSTLE Now scaled down to one show a year, the lat- est National Association of Music Merchants gathering featured more gear than ever. So why was a tiny do-it-yourself box for would- be rappers the hit of the weekend?
MARILYN CRISPELL Question: What do free jazz and the discipline of Baroque counterpoint have in common? Answer: The improvisatory artistry of Marilyn Crispell.
YANNI Sure, he's the smoothest synth stylist of '90s new age. But the secret to his success lies beyond his studio's techno tangle. In fact, this master of mellow melodies finds the music in our minds more compelling than anything on his own albums.
JAZZIN' THE STANDARDS Andy LaVerne's harmonic twists can reanimate even the creakiest old tunes, and lend new life to your voicings.
INSTRUCTIONAL COLUMNS
POWER SEQUENCING Craig Anderton records some test se- quences.
COMPUTERS Carter Scholz confirms the fears of first- time buyers.
INSIDE THE MUSIC Dave Stewart defends widdly bits.
ARRANGING Eric Turkel offers a checklist.
DRUM MACHINE PROGRAMMING Norman Weinberg's three theories of drumming.
STREET SMARTS Mark Stich's amazing grace notes.
IMPROVISATIONAL PIANO Robert L. Doerschuk goes honky- tonkin'.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
DIGIDESIGN SAMPLECELL Sample-playback card for the Macintosh.
OPCODE MAX Graphic MIDI programming environment for the Mac.
SHORT TAKES J.L. Cooper FaderMaster & Voce DMI-64 Mark II.
DRAWMER DS301 MIDI GATE Drawmer quality and usability combine with MIDI triggering to produce one of the most sophisticated gates available.
PROSONICS MEGA BEATS DRUM CD If your penchant is for drum sounds, this should satisfy your every craving from digital to thoroughly nasty analogue.
TECH 21 SANSAMP A very versatile and convincing Dl'able overdrive pedal.
TASCAM M-3500 MIXING CONSOLE Possibly the prettiest mid-priced multitrack console currently available - and it sounds good too!
ROLAND SPD-8 What looks like an airline lunch but sounds like a drum kit? Look no further."
MICROTECH GEFELL UM70 MICROPHONE A first-rate East German microphone, at a price you wouldn't believe - and no, it's not an April wind-up!
SONY ECM-MS5 STEREO MICROPHONE A practical stereo broadcast mic, but does it have a place in the studio?
AKAI S1100 SAMPLER There's more to this 16-bit sampler than the mere fact that it goes up to eleven!
FEATURES
ADRIAN WAGNER The man behind the Wasp synth shows us around his South Wales studio.
LUTHOR WALKOWIAK A rare interview with this reclusive and controversial record producer.
RECORDING ROCK GUITAR Further attempts to create a DI'd rock sound without buying anything designed to do the job!
A BRIEF HISTORY OF TIME An analysis of the many time-related effects that can be produced from a simple digital delay unit.
BEHIND THE YAMAHA DMR8 A glimpse at some of the philosophies and techniques in the development of Yamaha's digital multitrack recorder.
CONTROL ROOM DESIGN PART II Philip Newell continues to reveal the complexities of studio design.
STEVE SMITH Unaccompanied singing: the oldest of musical forms stands to benefit the most from modern digital recording and editing technology.
TASCAM 424 PORTASTUDIO A basic multitracker with a pedigree performance.
ROLAND RSS 3D SOUND PROCESSOR A glimpse into the future with this intriguing system for creating surround sound from two speakers.
AWARD SESSIONMASTER PREAMP An inexpensive guitar preamp for studio DI or live use.
VALHALA VFX SOUND CARDS Instant gratification with this versatile set of ready-to-use sounds.
SOUNDCRAFT SPIRIT MIXER Soundcraft's entry into the budget studio mixer market looks very interesting indeed.
dbx 563X SILENCER Dynamic noise reduction in an easy-to-drive package.
ZOOM 9010 MULTI-EFFECT A new rack-mounting, multi-effects unit for the quality conscious.
SHURE VP88 STEREO MIC A dedicated stereo microphone with an impeccable performance.
WILMSLOW AUDIO MICRO BASS KIT An easy assembly sub-bass unit for use with small studio monitors.
FEATURES
JAMIE LANE This month's producer has worked on many chart successes from his home-based private studio.
RECORDING BASS GUITAR The hows and whys of Dl'ing the bass guitar.
MUSIC MACHINE This Birmingham-based private studio is run by two individuals with complementary talents.
BEHIND THE DMR-8 The background and philosophy behind Yamaha's digital multitrack - part II.
FRANKFURT REPORT A foretaste of the new products due to tempt us later in the year.
CONTROL ROOM DESIGN III Philip Newell burrows ever deeper into the mysteries of room design.
REVOX C278 A very serious half-inch, eight-track recorder for those who put quality before quantity.
CAD EQUITEK II MICROPHONE An unusual microphone, both technically and cosmetically.
EVENTIDE H-3000 ULTRA-HARMONISER Is this the ultimate in professional pitch-shifting devices?
ALESIS DATADISK SQ Now radically updated, the Datadisk SQ lets you gig without your computer.
SYMETRIX SX208 STEREO COMPRESSOR A compact stereo compressor with a big specification.
FOSTEX T-SERIES HEADPHONES A selection of Fostex's printed-ribbon headphones.
JL COOPER CS-1 CONTROL STATION The Macintosh music control interface for those still afraid of mice!
P&R PB40 AUDIO PATCHBAY A simple, but effective, jack patchbay that makes studio life a little easier.
AKAI DD1000 DISK RECORDER Tapeless recording and editing on magneto-optical disk.
ROLAND M-240R MIXING CONSOLE Another useful rack-mount mixer from those masters of musical miniaturisation.
ZI-FI POWERED MONITORS See how your music sounds in the real world with these down-to-earth monitors.
FEATURES
CROSSTALK Allen Mornington-West of Quad discusses his company's philosophy and key products.
CONTROL ROOM DESIGN IV Philip Newell continues his foray into studio construction.
MIKE DOLAN As a freelance engineer, Mike has accumulated a lot of valuable experience in the world of recording.
AUDIO SWEETENING You can't polish a turd, but if you must try.
DUCKING 'N' DIVING A look at some of those less-used sockets on the back of your outboard gear.
ANDREW FARRISS OF INXS
The creative dynamo behind INXS's hit sound reveals his unusual songwriting methods. Also, a close-up look at the keyboardist's stage setup, and revealing transcriptions from "Suicide Blonde," "Bitter Tears," and "Hear That Sound."
WORLD VIEW
Christoph Franke opens shop in L.A. New gear unveiled in Frankfurt. High- tech invades sheet music stores. A former footballer tackles the piano.
KEYBOARD MEGA-GIVEAWAY
Win $16,500 worth of Yamaha gear!
TOD MACHOVER
Nightmares of technology regimenting our world vanish in the vision of this provocative composer, who explains how computers can be the key to making tomorrow's music more human than ever.
PERFORMANCE CLINIC: GREG PHILLINGANES
An L.A. session heavyweight takes time off from work with Eric Clapton and Paula Abdul to share his approaches to R&B ballad harmonization, chord substitutions, and gospel licks.
KEYBOARD CLINIC: KORG WAVESTATION
Keyboard digs deep into the Wavestation and comes up with surprising insights into advanced wave sequencing, vector synthesis, and live performance
KEYBOARD REPORTS
YAMAHA QY10 Portable synth/sequencer.
ROLAND JD-800 Synthesizer.
OBERHEIM PERF/X Drummer and Strummer.
INSTRUCTIONAL COLUMNS
INSIDE THE MUSIC Dave Stewart hits the roads.
ARRANGING Eric Turkel dissects Miami Sound Machine.
DRUM MACHINE PROGRAMMING Norman Weinberg dares you to be different.
EASY KEYBOARDS Larry Harms can't help falling in love.
COMPUTERS ON-LINE Tim Tully probes Microsoft multimedia computer standards.
POWER SEQUENCING Craig Anderton spices up drum parts.
SOUND DESIGN Michael Marans raises a glass to sampling attack transients.
COMMENT
The world's leading hi-tech music magazine celebrates its tenth anniversary this issue. Tim Goodyer considers the role MT has played in shaping the industry and the music.
NEWSDESK
On the eve of the UK's major music trade fair, there's a lot of hi-tech news in the air. Clue yourself in on MT's regular news pages.
COMMUNIQUE
What have a toasters called Jeffrey and Zippy and an anonymous rice cooker got in common with a collection of Wishbone Ash LPs? Check out this month's readers' letters for the answer.
COMPETITION
The ARP Odyssey may have been out of production before you started making music or it may be a classic synth from your youth; either way it's making a comeback in this exclusive MT anniversary competition.
COMPETITION
Roland are honouring MT's and their own anniversary by putting up a new JX1 for this second competition - prizes for the party games.
READERS' ADS
It pays to advertise in MT's Readers' Ads, the most popular hi-tech music classifieds in print.
Appraisal
PEAVEY DPM3 SE/SX
Since entering the keyboard market with the DPM3, Peavey have expanded the range and power of their gear. Simon Trask checks out Peavey's "upgradable" philosophy.
GAJITS SEQUENCER ONE/HIT KIT
Gajits' budget sequencer moves over to the Amiga and is joined by the company's new Hit Kit software. Ian Waugh plays along.
HAMMOND XB2
Until now the only way to get a real Hammond sound was with a real Hammond it's still the case, but now you can go solid-state. Malcolm Harrison and Tim Goodyer investigate the alternative to wheels and valves.
PANDORA !INSPIRATION
It's been a long time coming, and there have been problems along the way, but there's now a pro sequencer for Acorn's Archimedes. Ian Waugh opens Pandora's box.
GROOVE MC LITE
Extending MIDI control to cover stage lighting is a logical extension of a system which can already control most aspects of music. Vic Lennard strikes a lite.
ROLAND TENTRAX
Using a Roland MT32 or any Roland CM modules and looking to get into sequencing on an Atari? Ian Waugh reckons that there's a particular piece of software you should check out.
Music
YELLO
Eccentric Swiss pioneers Yello follow 1989's Flag with another long playing sound fantasy. Simon Trask talks to Boris Blank about his old Fairlight and his new Baby.
LFO
Turning their backs on pop notoriety to meet electronic experimentation head on, Sheffield's LFO are taking dance music into new areas. Simon Trask gets a new perspective on nostalgia.
Studio
P&R AUDIO PB40
Combining the flexibility of audio and MIDI patching P&R's PB40 patchbay makes a space and cost effective addition to any studio. Tim Goodyer jacks in.
CEDAR DE-CLICKER
It sounds like a cheap TV ad, but this device puts an end to all known clicks and pops. Vic Lennard gives the latest development in noise elimination the Rice Krispies test.
Technology
ON THE BEAT
Another selection of excellent drum patterns appear in this month's edition of the definitive beatbox programming series. Nigel Lord hands out a good beating.
PATCHWORK
As more sample CDs appear on the market, it becomes harder to produce something that stands out from the crowd. Tim Goodyer discovers a collection of dance samples that could become seminal.
SHIPWRECKED!
If you were stranded on a desert island with only a solitary keyboard to occupy your time, what would be the instrument of your choice? The professionals make theirs in this anniversary feature.
ARP PROSOLOIST, KORG SIGMA & ROLAND SH2000
In the early days of analogue synths, reconciling electronics and expression was hard work. Gordon Reid looks at the beginnings of pressure sensitivity.
TECHNO POP
Steering this magazine through the '80s made Dan Goldstein a prominent character in the music industry. Putting aside 90 Minutes he gives a personal view of the last decade in music, technology and Music Technology.
DESIGNING THE FUTURE
Appropriately enough, MT shares its birthday with one of the companies which has helped shape today's synthesisers: Roland UK. Gez Kahan presents a view from the inside.
MAKING HISTORY
Looking back over ten years' worth of magazines, it seemed that there were certain moments worth reliving here are the edited highlights.
IAIN BAKER OF JESUS JONES
From the dance war front lines comes the first of a new breed of rock keyboardist-unconcerned with wrong notes, willing to splinter his instrument if the music de- mands his anger, yet committed to a musical morality experimental sampling jockeys would find outrageous.
WORLD VIEW
Bill Jolly samples sex for VH-1. Michael Cretu unwraps Enigma. Emerson spotted in London. Plus news from far and wide.
PHILIP GLASS ON TOUR
The composer's longtime music director, Michael Ries- man, explains the intricacies of transferring Glass's Powaqqatsi film score to the stage for an upcoming six keyboardist American tour.
TOM COSTER'S PREPRODUCTION PRIMER
The clock starts ticking the minute you begin cutting your album at that expensive downtown studio. Santana alumnus Tom Coster shows how you can save time and beaucoup bucks with a little forethought and some careful preproduction at home.
KEYBOARD CLINIC: PASSPORT DESIGNS' PRO 4
Don't let accessibility fool you: Pro 4 conceals plenty of power beneath its friendly surface. Here's how to tap this package's potential to create polyrhythms and hit lists, play tempo tricks, and otherwise surprise your friends.
TECH HORROR STORIES
Between tour gigs with Michael Jackson, Paula Abdul, Madonna, and the Beach Boys, some of the top keyboard technicians in the biz gather to trade disaster stories and offer tips on how you can keep your own show running smoothly.
INSTRUCTIONAL COLUMNS
DRUM MACHINE PROGRAMMING Norman Weinberg crashes into sampled cymbals.
ARRANGING Eric Turkel cruises Reharmony Drive.
COMPUTERS ON-LINE Tim Tully boots up QuickTime.
EASY KEYBOARDS Larry Harms takes the longest time.
IMPROVISATIONAL PIANO Robert L. Doerschuk catches New Orleans fever.
VINTAGE SYNTHS Mark Vail revs up the Hammond B-3.
MAKING TRACKS Brent Hurtig searches for depth..
INSIDE THE MUSIC Dave Stewart vamps until ready.
SONGWRITING Jesse Harms lays a foundation.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
YAMAHA RY30 Drum machine.
PEAVEY DPM 3 SE & PEAVEY SX Sample playback synth & sample input module.
BUCHLA LIGHTNING Optical MIDI controller.
Reviews
YAMAHA QY10 Derek Johnson finds out what happens when you cross-breed a MIDI studio with a packet of Smarties!
LA MIDI GATE Sixteen multi-function gates with MIDI control for around £50 per gate.
BOSS CL-50 & GE-21 A couple of useful half-rack processors designed for serious home recording.
BEHRINGER MULTI-BAND EXCITER Now you can excite your bottom end as well as your top!
MARK OF THE UNICORN 78 MIDI MIXER Like its page number, this little box of goodies could be your answer to life, the universe, etc.
ROLAND CM-32P If you always wanted a U110 but couldn't afford it, don't miss this end-of-line bargain.
P&R RACK SYSTEM A handy studio rack that can also be used live.
FOSTEX X-28 The four-track designed to provide as many input channels as physically possible.
TCA DD200 A hard disk drive designed specifically for musical applications.
Features
SHOW TIME A look at the joys in store as the Music Recording and Technology Show shares the
campus with the Guitarist Show.
IMS REPORT What you missed if you didn't go.
PIP WILLIAMS Musician, songwriter and Status Quo producer, Pip is also an active member of the British Record Producers Guild.
STARTING FROM SCRATCH If you're new to recording, start here.
A MATTER OF COURSE An overview of some of the recording courses available.
CATCHING THE BUSS A guided tour of mixing console routing.
Reviews
GENELEC $30 MONITORS A powerful and compact monitoring system for the serious small studio.
DATASTREAM MIDI VIEWPORT A handy MIDI analyser for those moments when nothing seems to make sense.
PALMER PDI-05 SPEAKER SIMULATOR Designed to bring out the best in guitar preamps,1
this unit offers stereo or dual mono operation.
C-LAB EDUCATIONAL SOFTWARE C-Lab's Notator Alpha, Aura and Midia checked out by a real live music teacher.
ZIMMER RACK A simple and inexpensive way to mount all those studio processors. It's also handy for those trips to the shops.
TCA S2 MIXER Automated multitrack mixing at a budget price.
YAMAHA FX900 A combined multi-effects unit and guitar processor for the live or recording musician.
2001 MIDIMATION Fader automation for your existing mixer, driven by your own sequencer.
FUNCTION JUNCTION MIDI routing and processing for the MIDI-intensive studio.
ALESIS RA-100 POWER AMPLIFIER A mid-power, rack-mount stereo amplifier suitable for small studio
or near-field monitoring.
Features
ALAN PARSONS Alan is one of England's best-respected producers and has a studio so impressive it
makes you want to saw your own head off with a partly thawed stick of celery!
PUMP UP THE BASS There's more to a solid mix than reaching for the bass control. Sneaky tricks revealed.
CATHEDRAL RECORDING How to record a thousand vocalists live in one take.
BIG OCEAN PRODUCTIONS What's half a review, half an interview and vaguely to do with Judie Tzuke? Read on and find out.
MIDI ANALYSIS When even your shrink can't help, you could try a bit of self-analysis.
THE MIGHTY HAMMOND B-3
A loving look at the number one gonzo rock and jazz monster electric keyboard of all time. Also maintenance tips, advice on buying a used Ham- mond, and drawbar settings from the stars.
ORGAN SHOOTOUT
The tone-wheel sound lives or does it? Keyboard A/Bs the Hammond XB-2, the Rhodes VK-1000, the Korg CX-3, and the Voce DMI-64 Mark II with a real B-3, and reaches some surprising conclusions.
WORLD VIEW
Mike Lindup returns with Level 42. Shadows and cimbaloms in Kafka. Further adventures in 3-D sound. A bad case of Croiners. Plus news from far and wide.
GIVEAWAY
Win one of two Hammond XB-2 portable organs!
KEYBOARD SOUNDPAGE COMPETITION Your chance to get your music heard in Keyboard.
MASTER CLASS: BILLY CHILDS A young jazz piano sensation outlines his approach to composition and small-group arrangement, and explores the harmonic influence of Aaron Copland and Laura Nyro.
MIDI MYTHS Paul Lehrman tells the truth about timing delays, synchronization, and ten other areas of common misperceptions about what MIDI can do. (Hint: Next time you wash your socks, don't expect any high-tech help. Most washers and driers don't have MIDI.)
INSTRUCTIONAL COLUMNS
MAKING TRACKS Brent Hurtig improves your listening.
POWER SEQUENCING Craig Anderton wires up a MuteWriter.
ARRANGING Eric Turkel speaks out on singers.
COMPUTERS ON-LINE Tim Tully explores Silicon Graphics' new workstation.
IMPROVISATIONAL PIANO Robert L. Doerschuk digs the roots of New Orleans piano.
DRUM MACHINE PROGRAMMING Norman Weinberg dissects swing rhythm.
SONGWRITING Jesse Harms finds the seeds of success in three hit songs.
MIND OVER MIDI Chris Meyer ponders new twists on old ideas.
INSIDE THE MUSIC Dave Stewart takes an instrumental break.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
HAMMOND XB-2 & RHODES VK-1000 Electronic drawbar organs.
ART MULTIVERB ALPHA & ULTRAFOOT X-15 Multi-effects processor & MIDI foot controller.
Reviews
ROLAND SN550 A digital, single-ended noise reduction system for the removal of hum, hiss and buzz.
PEAVEY DPM V3 The long-awaited rackmount version of Peavey's digital synthesiser.
EV SENTRY 100A MONITORS These compact monitors have been around for some years but have yet to
achieve the same popularity in the UK as they enjoy in the USA.
MILAB LSR2000 MICROPHONE A capacitor cardioid mic primarily designed for live and studio vocals but with a host of secondary applications.
ALESIS VIDEO MANUALS A couple of inexpensive, informative videos for Quadraverb and SR16 owners.
YAMAHA YPDR-601 CD RECORDER This compact machine allows the efficient manufacture of one-off CDs
using write-only optical disks.
SOUNDTRACS MEGAS MIXER Automated mute operation and professional facilities make this a very attractive desk for the private studio.
MOTU MIDI TIMEPIECE A dedicated Macintosh SMPTE interface from Mark of the Unicorn.
ROCKTRON INTELLIFEX A multi-effects unit from an unusual source but turning in a surprisingly
impressive performance.
Features
M-RAT SHOW An overview of the seminar sessions planned for November's Music Recording and Technology show.
THE BLUE NILE If recording techniques and philosophies are of interest to you, then this is an interview not to be missed.
THE BASIC BASICS PART I The first part in a new series that examines the underlying principles behind recording equipment and its use.
IMPEDANCE Mike Skeet attempts to spread enlightenment by explaining this oft misunderstood
parameter.
MARTIN COLLEY BBC session producer Martin came into recording via the traditional route and has
accumulated a wealth of experience and a fair amount of vintage recording gear.
SIDE CHAINS The role of side-chains in signal processors is no always clear - a situation that might be improved on reading this article.
features
EM Guide to Microphones A navigational chart through the maze of dynamics, condensers, and other mic types by Michael Molenda
When Worlds Collide The dream partnership of MIDI sequencing and digital audio record- ing is here by Dennis Miller with Paul Lehrman
Production Tips: How to Juggle Music and Musicians. A successful recording project is dependent on a synergy between producer and artist by Michael Molenda
A Season of Dreams. A peek at holiday wishes of the pros by Anne-Marie Praetzel
columns
The Computer Musician: Microsoft DOS 5.0 Microsoft's new system software for PC-compatibles offers important benefits for music software users by Constantine Peters
From the Top: Hard-Disk Recording How do you record audio onto a hard disk, and why would you want to do it, anyway? by Dan Phillips
reviews
Peavey DPM-2 Synthesizer by Greg Rule
Cheetah MD16 Drum Machine by Michael McFall
Akai EWI 3000 Wind Controller by Tim Tully
Oberheim Drummer and Strummer by David Crigger
Cool Shoes Sound Globs 3.0 (PC) by Allan Metts
Korg A5 Multi-FX Signal Processor by Michael Molenda
Fatar Studio 88 Plus Keyboard Controller by Steve Oppenheimer
1991 EM Article Index
PIANO JAZZ
From Harlem stride to postmodernism, the panorama of jazz piano unfolds in the words and music of nine top pianists. Join Oscar Peterson, Bill Evans, Teddy Wilson, André Previn, and other jazz piano greats as they explain their music in these transcripts from Marian McPartland's radio show, Piano Jazz.
WORLD VIEW
Die Warzau gives the drummer some. A piano technician tackles the Sitka spruce industry. Plus news bulletins from hither and yon.
CYBERARTS
Tiny holographic clowns, slow-motion tennis, Jaron Lanier jamming in real reality: It's all in this front-line report from Keyboard's cyber- tribal gathering.
KEYBOARD CLINIC: PEAVEY DPM 3
New insights on hard disk sample storage, programming, sampling, effects applications, and other tricks you didn't know this pop- ular sample-playback synth could handle.
DAVE STEWART
Okay, enough with the bitesized monthly columns. Get totally inside the music in this encounter with that rarest of animals: a prog rock survivor with provocative views on the time- lessness of quality and the tediousness of trendiness.
INSTRUCTIONAL COLUMNS
MIND OVER MIDI Chris Meyer introduces the multimedia naifs.
REEL WORLD NOTEBOOK Jeff Rona vs. the engineer from Hell.
SOUND DESIGN Michael Marans shares intervallic insights.
DRUM MACHINE PROGRAMMING Norman Weinberg keeps it simple.
ARRANGING Eric Turkel scores for sampled and synth horns.
TECHNOLOGY FOR POETS Jim Aikin catches a waveform.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
E-MU PROTEUS MASTER PERFORMANCE SYSTEM Synthesizer.
KURZWEIL K2000 Synthesizer.
DIGIDESIGN PRO TOOLS, PART TWO Multi-channel direct-to-hard-disk recording and editing system.
SHORT TAKES Audio Architecture Function Junction Plus, Midiman FineLine.
NAMM '92: EYE TO EYE WITH TOMORROW
Recession be damned! Full speed ahead! Lost in a wilderness of new gear and glitzy displays, manufacturers and dealers see glimmers of hope in troubled economic skies, while Key- board checks out the hot new synths, samplers, MIDI products, and software.
THE MUSIC BIZ: INDUSTRY PROS TALK STRAIGHT How is the music industry coping with hard times? What can we expect from manufacturers who once dazzled us with in- novations but now seem to spin out only variations on old de- signs? How do dealers plan to bring you back into their stores?
WORLD VIEW
Fungo Mungo tackles Samuel Adams. Jack Dupree checks out. Plus news from around the world.
BRAD FIEDEL
From the mournful metal motifs of Terminator 2 to the refined passagework behind the brawls of Gladiator, Fiedel brings a classical sensibility to the high-tech handiwork of film scoring.
PIANO JAZZ, PART 2
Marian McPartland meets the future of jazz piano, and trades licks and thoughts with Benny Green, Geri Allen, and Kenny Werner.
KEYBOARD CLINIC: KORG M1
It's been around for quite a while, but then again, so was Miles Davis, and he was full of surprises too. Howard Massey uncovers new uses for combis, pulls a few sys/ex tricks, and shares other fresh insights.
INSTRUCTIONAL COLUMNS
MAKING TRACKS Brent Hurtig looks for elbow room.
IMPROVISATIONAL PIANO Robert L. Doerschuk reveals the unknown Fats Domino.
TECHNOLOGY FOR POETS Jim Aikin makes sampling simple.
POWER SEQUENCING Craig Anderton's sequencing short-cuts.
DRUM MACHINE PROGRAMMING Norman Weinberg tweaks with beats.
MIND OVER MIDI Chris Meyer previews the expanded MIDI spec.
INSIDE THE MUSIC Dave Stewart excavates In C.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
OPCODE EDITOR/LIBRARIAN WAVESTATION Galaxy Plus Editors module for Macintosh.
LINTRONICS LAMM Memorymoog upgrade.
TEDDY RILEY
Far from the frenzy of his New York home town, a young producer and player revolutionizes dance music with a unique groove and a golden touch. Meet the latest Svengali behind Michael Jackson, and learn the secrets of new jack swing.
WORLD VIEW
Bob Moog and John Eaton unveil the ultimate keyboard controller. The future of music publishing in the electronic era. Ellis Marsalis ponders standards and child-rearing. Plus bulletins from around the world.
LARRY FAST & DAVID BRYAN'S NETHERWORLD
An unusual soundtrack assignment brings together the most unlikely team since Wendy Carlos and "Weird Al" Yankovic, as electronic in- novator Fast and Bon Jovi rocker Bryan follow the flying hand through Netherworld.
NAMM, PART II
The cornucopia of new gear spills on, as Keyboard recaps the latest in disk-based digital recorders, synchronizers, mixers, and miscellany from this year's National Association of Music Merchants show.
MIDI PIANOS A hands-on analysis of the Kawai KG-2 Parlor Grand with MIDI, the Yamaha Disklavier,
and a variety of Gulbransen MIDI products for the acoustic piano.
INSTRUCTIONAL COLUMNS
REEL WORLD NOTEBOOK Jeff Rona learns to live with perfection.
SONGWRITING Jesse Harms on the art of co-composing.
IMPROVISATIONAL PIANO Robert L. Doerschuk analyzes proto-rock rhythm.
TECHNOLOGY FOR POETS Jim Aikin's sampling Berlitz.
POWER SEQUENCING Craig Anderton answers five basic questions.
MAKING TRACKS Brent Hurtig plugs into patch bays.
INSIDE THE MUSIC Dave Stewart pleads for more ugly chords.
MIND OVER MIDI Chris Meyer rides the ups and downs of MIDI volume.
DRUM MACHINE PROGRAMMING Norman Weinberg digs into reggae, mon.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
STUDIO ELECTRONICS P-5 RACK Rack-mount, MIDIfied Sequential Prophet-5.
ROLAND JV-80 Synthesizer.
DOEPFER LMK3 Master keyboard controller.
SYNCHROVOICE MIDIVOX Pitch-to-MIDI converter.
FEATURES
Frankfurt Musik Messe 1992 PAUL IRESON reports from Frankfurt on Europe's biggest music fair.
Mass Storage Technology
Is the hard disk about to crash? KENDALL WRIGHTSON looks at the latest developments in mass storage technology, and discovers an optical future.
Music On The Move
Forget towels, deodorant and trashy paperbacks, what you really want to pack in your suitcase come the Summer is a go-anywhere MIDI studio. PAUL IRESON advises on suitable travelling companions.
Digital Effects
JULIAN COLBECK takes a look at what's on offer in the world of digital reverbs, delays and multi-effects units, and explains how to choose between them.
Radical Recording
You may be a whizz with the little black boxes, but how are you at recording real sounds and real performances? WILF SMARTIES serves up a selection of tasty studio tricks.
Thomas Dolby
Thomas Dolby is back after a four year break, without the mad professor image but with an excellent new album in Astronauts & Heretics, his most personal recording to date, PAUL TINGEN spoke to him about the long road from solo synthesist to globe-trotting collaborator.
Karlheinz Stockhausen
Karlheinz Stockhausen has had a profound influence on modern music from the 1950s onwards, and pioneered the use of electronics to create genuinely new music. MARK J. PRENDERGAST reviews his career.
REVIEWS
Peavey DPM SP and SX
MARTIN RUSS takes a close look at Peavey's long-awaited DPM SP dedicated sample player, and its sample input partner the DPM SX.
Sony DPS-M7 Sonic Modulator
Following hot on the heels of the DPS-D7 and R7 digital delay and reverb units comes a third dedicated processor in Sony's DPS series - the DPS-M7. DAVID MELLOR wonders whether this marks the end of the line for multiple effects units.
Micon LMTC Processor Controlled Synchroniser
Micon Audio's LMTC Processor Controller Synchroniser does for owners of Tascam multitracks what the MTC1 did for Fostex users: integrates multitrack recorder control into the sequencer environment. DAVE LOCKWOOD gets that syncing feeling once more.
SPL Vitalizer
By using elements of equalisation combined with established psychoacoustic principles, the SPL Vitalizer enhances the entire audio spectrum. PAUL WHITE reviews the unit that is now a vital ingredient of his mixes.
Korg 03R/W Synth Module
The sound of Korg's 01/W keyboard is now available in the compact frame of the 03R/W expander. NIGEL HUMBERSTONE checks it out.
Allen & Heath GS3 Mixer
With features enough for a low-end one-inch 24-track studio, and a price low enough for the top end of the quarter-inch 8-track market, DAVE LOCKWOOD finds the Allen & Heath GS3 too good to be ignored.
Cubase 3.0. Part 2
DAVID MELLOR concludes his 2-part review of the latest version of Steinberg's Cubase sequencing software with an investigation of some of its more complex features: the IPS, MIDI Mixer, and Logical Editing.
Big Noise Software Cadenza
PC music software still has to come some way to catch up with that for the Atari and Mac, but good, graphic, sequencer programs like Cadenza are a big step in the right direction. PETER CUDMORE takes a closer look.
Blue Ribbon SuperJam
PAUL OVERAA takes a look at SuperJam, the new Amiga music composition package from Blue Ribbon Soundworks.
Yamaha RY30 Cards
MARTIN RUSS looks at how Yamaha have drummed up card support for their successful RY30 drum machine, with new cards containing the sounds and rhythms of big name drummers.
HitSound Producer Series CDs WILF SMARTIES looks for the perfect beat in two new HitSound sample CDs, from production team Coldcut and drummer David Ruffy.
REGULARS
Shape Of Things To Come
Another round-up of new products, plus news from the world of hi-tech music.
Drum Programming: A Series By Warren Cann. Part 1.
If you use a drum machine or programme drum parts on your sequencer, chances are you need help. WARREN CANN explains why in this introduction to his new series on drum programming.
Hands On:
Soundcraft Spirit Mixer. Part 2.
DAVID MELLOR concludes his guide to this low-cost high-quality console.
ST Notes
MARTIN RUSS is your guide to the world of music on the Atari ST, in this new monthly column...
Mac Notes
...while KENDALL WRIGHTSON tackles the Mac....
PC Notes
...BRIAN HEYWOOD pores over the PC....
Amiga Notes
...and PHIL SOUTH stays friends with his Amiga. Free Classifieds
Software Support
More hints and tips from the software publishers themselves. This month: C-Lab; Opcode; Coda; Dr. T's.
Russlings
Samplers generate their own specialised jargon so here's a quick guide to help guide you through some commonly used terms.
KEITH EMERSON
On the eve of the first ELP tour in 13 years, the king of pro- gressive keyboards discusses the band's comeback album and reveals what it took to bring three volatile virtuosos together again. Plus a transcription of the organ part from a classic ELP performance.
WORLD VIEW
Howard Jones finds respect at last. Philips shoots dice with Mozart on CD-I. Yamaha's president steps down. Plus news you can use.
FAITH NO MORE
The lowdown on Angel Dust, tales from the road, and the chal- lenge of playing keys with a cutting-edge band, from top to Roddy Bottum.
MICHAEL BODDICKER
A legendary session synthesist stands up for analog, blasts. today's preset players, describes the pressures of competing with orchestral players in search
of the perfect timbre, and locks horns with David Foster and Quincy Jones.
KEYBOARD CLINIC: ENSONIQ VFX
New twists on a popular sample- playback synth, from tuning ta- bles to copy utilities to sequencer applications and beyond.
INSTRUCTIONAL COLUMNS
REEL WORLD NOTEBOOK Jeff Rona concocts a click for Pat Leonard.
MIND OVER MIDI Chris Meyer explains the new file dump standard.
IMPROVISATIONAL PIANO Robert L. Doerschuk sews the seeds of collective improvisation.
COMPUTERS Geoffrey Ryle opens up the Macintosh PowerBook.
DRUM MACHINE PROGRAMMING Norman Weinberg on the why, where, and how of fills.
POWER SEQUENCING Craig Anderton tweaks the tempo.
TECHNOLOGY FOR POETS Jim Aikin introduces MIDI.
INSIDE THE MUSIC Dave Stewart defends the craft of composition.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
SOFTWARE TOOLWORKS MIRACLE Piano teaching system.
ART DR-X 2100 Multi-effects & dynamics processor.
ROLAND SOUND CANVAS & SOUND BRUSH Multitimbral sound module & MIDI sequencer.
DR. T'S INTERACTOR Do-it-yourself MIDI processing toolkit for Macintosh.
FEATURES Steve Jansen & Richard Barbieri
Following a brief diversion in the form of last year's Rain Tree Crow project, Steve Jansen and Richard Barbieri are once more pursuing their creative partnership. PAUL IRESON reports on the recording of their latest album.
Training & Education For Recording
Educated sound engineer DAVID MELLOR assesses the value of training for a career in recording.
MIDI: Past, Present & Future
The Musical Instrument Digital Interface has revolutionised the way we write and record music. MARTIN RUSS delves deep into MIDI's 10-year history, explains its many recent changes and additions, and looks ahead to see what the future will hold.
Michael Brook
Michael Brook, inventor of the Infinite Guitar, is a guitarist, composer and producer with a good deal of talent and a taste for the unusual. PAUL TINGEN met him to talk about his forthcoming Cobalt Blue album.
Music On The Macintosh
Newer, cheaper models have brought the Apple Macintosh within the reach of an increasing number of musicians. TIM TULLY presents an overview of hardware and software products for the computer that pioneered the Graphical User Interface.
REVIEWS
Roland R70
Roland's R70, their new top-of-the-range beat box, is the first drum machine to feature on-board digital effects. IAN STEELE sits in judgement.
Mark Of The Unicorn Mosaic
Mark Of The Unicorn's Mosaic succeeds Professional Composer as their pro notation program for the Mac. MIKE COLLINS looks at how it stacks up against the competition.
Korg 01/W Pro and Pro X Workstations
The latest keyboards in the Korg dynasty offer a little more than remade and remodelled technology. JULIAN COLBECK experiences Korg's sonic edge.
Tascam M1516 Mixer
Tascam's compact and versatile new M1516 desk is aimed squarely at the semi-pro 8-track market. The not-so compact but even more. versatile DAVE LOCKWOOD checks it out.
Tascam 464 Portastudio
DAVE LOCKWOOD takes a shine to Tascam's new top-of-the-range Portastudio, the 464.
Novation MM10 MIDI Keyboard
PAUL IRESON gets to grips with a mini master keyboard that's just right for QY10 users.
Datamusic Fractal Music
MARTIN RUSS looks at one of the current rash of fractal music programs and finds it anything but chaotic...
Yamaha MDF2 Datafiler
MARTIN RUSS files his report on a MIDI accessory which could fill a big hole in your musical life.
Tascam ATS500 Synchroniser
DAVE LOCKWOOD checks out Tascam's ATS500 which is ideal for semi-pro musicians with an eye on the field of audio-for-video.
REGULARS
Shape Of Things To Come
Another round-up of new products, plus news from the world of hi-tech music.
Hands On: Moog MiniMoog
Time travel by synthesizer: DAVID MELLOR takes a look at the classic Moog MiniMoog.
Drum Programming: A Series By Warren Cann. Part 2.
WARREN CANN continues his series on drum programming.
ST Notes
MARTIN RUSS takes his monthly look at the world of ST music...
Mac Notes
...while KENDALL WRIGHTSON tackles the Mac...
PC Notes
BRIAN HEYWOOD pores over the PC...
Amiga Notes
...and PAUL AUSTIN stays friends with his Amiga.
Sample Shop
WILF SMARTIES kicks off our regular look at new sample CD releases.
Software Support
More hints and tips from the software publishers themselves. This month: C-Lab; Steinberg; Dr. T's.
Russlings
There are more sound options available to today's synthesist than ever before. But should you buy off-the-peg or custom designs?
AFFORDABLE DIGITAL RECORDING
"Affordable"? You bet your reel-to-reel. But scaling up to the new squeaky-clean studio technology does take patience, knowledge, and yes, a few bucks. Here's the scoop on system components, ter- minology, the truth about noise levels, and several surprises you'll run into on the way to DAT dreamland or hard disk heaven.
WORLD VIEW
Negativland takes on U2. Henry Butler goes solo. Products Americans may never see stack up at Frankfurt. Plus news from around the world.
KEYBOARD GIVEAWAY
Win three hot Ensoniq products- - an SD-1 32-voice synth, an SQ- R Plus 32-voice synth, and a DP/4 multi-effects processor-worth a total of $5,235!
MASTER CLASS: HIP-HOP GROOVES
Old school? New school? House? Go-go? Hip-hop? The way to go to the barber shop? Confused? Consult Brain- not that wad in your head, but the singularly named drummer with the Limbomaniacs, who lays down the law on programming dance grooves.
LIVE FROM LAS VEGAS...
Are high-tech toys killing live music in America's playground? Are musicians still scoring gigs in the casinos, or is a ticket to Sin City just a pass to the unemployment office? And if you're already stuck in Vegas, what can you do to survive? Find the answers in this front-line report.
INSTRUCTIONAL COLUMNS
SYNTH BASICS Jim Aikin connects with MIDI.
MAKING TRACKS Brent Hurtig gets normalled.
MIND OVER MIDI Chris Meyer on the debate to define controller numbers.
COMPUTERS ON-LINE Geoffrey Ryle reviews recent operating system developments.
IMPROVISATIONAL PIANO Robert L. Doerschuk takes two choruses.
ARRANGING Eric Turkel charts string parts.
SONGWRITING Jesse Harms speaks out on words.
INSIDE THE MUSIC Dave Stewart chases the sylphs of creativity.
DRUM MACHINE PROGRAMMING Norman Weinberg gets his fills.
REEL WORLD NOTEBOOK Jeff Rona tiptoes through Poison Ivy.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
FRONTAL LOBE VERSION III Hardware sequencer.
ENSONIQ DP/4 Digital effects processor.
ROLAND R-70 Drum machine.
CUBASE 3.0 FOR ATARI Atari sequencer software.
LYNC SYSTEMS LN-4 Strap-on keyboard controller.
FEATURES
Ryuichi Sakamoto
On completion of a new solo album and the soundtrack to the latest screen version of Wuthering Heights, Ryuichi Sakamoto finds himself centre stage yet again. PAUL TINGEN talks to the Renaissance Man of modern music.
A Buyer's Guide To Digital Pianos
The sound of an acoustic piano is perhaps the most important single timbre in pop, rock, jazz, and classical music. JULIAN COLBECK looks at contemporary MIDI alternatives to the real thing.
On Tour With Nitzer Ebb
Nitzer Ebb are using the tools of technology to recreate their abrasive, challenging sound in a live context. NIGEL HUMBERSTONE talks to the man who helps to put the show on the road.
Back To Bach
When JULIAN COLBECK went back to Bach to find musical inspiration, little did he think he'd end up recording a whole album.
Synchronisation Explained
Many hi-tech musicians see tape synchronisation as a necessary evil. DAVE LOCKWOOD ponders the pitfalls and muses on the mysteries of timecode.
REVIEWS
Yamaha TG100
A lightweight multi-timbral module, with 28-voice polyphony and 192 sounds, which also acts as a MIDI Interface for your computer - where's the catch? PAUL WIFFEN looks hard but just can't seem to find it.
DDA Interface Mixer
Yet another stratospheric studio name finds its way into the more modest recording setup; PAUL WHITE appreciates DDA's design for mixing.
Akai S1100 v2.0
As if by magic, your $1100 can become a hard disk recorder, courtesy of Akai's latest upgrade. DAVID MELLOR leads his favourite sampler along the upgrade path.
Turtle Beach Multisound
Dedicated PC users will welcome the introduction of this new, high-quality sound card to further enhance PC music-making possibilities. BRIAN HEYWOOD investigates.
Roland DM80 Hard Disk Recorder
Roland's $750 and $770 amply demonstrated their pro digital expertise; now the DM80 offers four or eight tracks of truly cost-effective hard disk recording. WILF SMARTIES welcomes Roland's newest techno tool.
Passport Master Tracks Pro 5
One of the Mac sequencing front-runners, Master Tracks Pro, has benefited from ongoing upgrades and is now into its fifth life. MIKE COLLINS gets to know a Pro.
Yamaha RY10 Drum Machine
NIGEL HUMBERSTONE checks out Yamaha's latest miniature marvel - a drum box with a difference.
Voice Crystal Sound Cards
PAUL IRESON listens in to new Wavestation sounds from Voice Crystal.
Casio DA-R100 DAT Recorder DEREK JOHNSON gets acquainted with a DAT machine that's small but perfectly formed.
REGULARS
Shape Of Things To Come
Another round-up of new products, plus news from the world of hi-tech music.
Hands On: Lexicon PCM70
DAVID MELLOR takes an acknowledged classic effects unit for a road test.
Drum Programming: A Series By Warren Cann. Part 3.
This month: hints on creating more exciting song arrangements.
ST Notes
More words of wisdom re your ST from MARTIN RUSS...
Mac Notes
...while KENDALL WRIGHTSON reflects on a Mac world...
PC Notes
...BRIAN HEYWOOD reports on the latest PC developments...
Amiga Notes
..and PHIL SOUTH has a hard time with his Amiga.
Sample Shop
Groove guru WILF SMARTIES reports on the sample CD scene.
Software Support
This month, helpful hints for users of C-Lab and Opcode software.
Russlings
It has come to our attention that some of you have bad back-up habits. You know who you are...
WENDY CARLOS REVISITS SWITCHED-ON BACH
Twenty-five years after shaking up the music world with ther electronic renderings of works by J. S. Bach, Wendy Carios has redone the entire Switched-On Bach album from such, with new sounds, new ideas, and ear-tickling tunings.
WORLD VIEW
On the level with Mike Lindup of Level 42. In SCUM's wake with Diamanda Galás. You don't want to know where John Duncan has been. Plus news from around the world.
BUILD YOUR OWN MIDI DELAY DETECTOR
For those who just don't have the patience to put up with pesky MIDI delays, here's a blueprint for constructing and using a MIDI delay detector.
AFFORDABLE MIXERS: A $600 SHOOTOUT What's the best keyboard mixer that (a little) money can buy? The answers lie in this guide for players with multiple MIDI machines and bank accounts running near empty.
MASTER CLASS: RICHIE BEIRACH
From left- and right-brain separation to post-Bill Evans re- harmonizations, dig into Beirach's lode of jazz piano lore and find rich new insights into improvisation.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
ROLAND FP-8 & WERSI CPF 1 Digital pianos.
PG MUSIC BAND-IN-A-BOX MIDI accompaniment software (Mac, IBM, Atari).
SHORT TAKES Polyphonics Merge 3x3 & PEX-1 polyphonic ex- pander, New Sound Music Background Rhythm Patterns.
INSTRUCTIONAL COLUMNS
DRUM MACHINE PROGRAMMING Norman Weinberg finds a new use for arpeggiators.
COMPUTERS ON-LINE Geoffrey Ryle explores the macro world.
POWER SEQUENCING Craig Anderton stalks computer gremlins.
ARRANGING Eric Turkel scores for strings.
BASICS Jim Aikin introduces the sequencer.
REEL WORLD NOTEBOOK Jeff Rona syncs into Poison Ivy.
MIND OVER MIDI Carter Scholz explains the MIDI tuning spec.
MAKING TRACKS Brent Hurtig builds a two-bay patch system.
INSIDE THE MUSIC Dave Stewart recoils from Horrible Chords.
VINTAGE SYNTHS Mark Vail recalls the Fairlight CMI.
FEATURES
The Integration Game
In part one of this two-part article, MARTIN RUSS looks at how the right software can make the difference between a studio full of lonely synths, samplers and other gadgets, and a powerful integrated setup.
Sequencers Have Feelings Too
Your sequencer could be having more of an effect on your music than your synths do. WILF SMARTIES wonders whether you should be giving your MC50 a co-writing credit...
Radio Days
When PAUL D.LEHRMAN was asked to use his technological expertise to help create a radio quiz show, he rose to the challenge - and discovered it was just about the best fun he could have standing up.
The Mission
Instead of recording their latest opus in expensive pro studios, the Mission have been laying tracks in a rural barn. It might seem they've fallen from grace; ROBERT MICHAEL finds it ain't necessarily so.
Manchester School Of Sound Recording
A course in recording provides a way of breaking out of the classic Catch 22 you can't get studio work without experience, and can't get experience without work. TIM HURRELL reports on the Manchester School Of Sound Recording and what their 1-year course has to offer.
On Tour With Elton John
Elton John goes on tour this month to promote his new album The One; JULIAN COLBECK took the opportunity to talk to keyboardsman Mark Taylor about equipment, entertainment, and Elton.
REVIEWS
Roland DJ70
Roland's DJ70 repackages the guts of an $750 as a DJ-oriented sampling keyboard with a glut of time-saving features. WILF SMARTIES welcomes the unit that redefines user friendly sampling.
Emu Proteus 3 World
Emu's new Proteus 3 is to hi-tech music what Phileas Fogg is to convenience foods. NIGEL HUMBERSTONE tries a taste of authentic sounds from around the world.
Yamaha EMP700 Multi-Effects
It's slim, dark and sexy, flashes alluringly in a rack and has multiple uses it's Yamaha's latest sound processor, the EMP700. DEREK JOHNSON opens up the black magic box.
Opcode MAXplay
MAXplay opens a window on a world of MIDI applications, including MIDI analysers, harmonisers, editor/librarians and much, much more. KENDALL WRIGHTSON investigates.
Gem S2 Music Processor
GEM's newest synth, with its polished sound and presentation, could be set to dispel the company's homely image. MARTIN RUSS discovers the multi-faceted GEM $2.
Fostex 2412 Multitrack Mixer
Fostex's new 24-channel 12-group 2412 mixer packs big console features into a compact frame. DAVE LOCKWOOD tries it on for size.
Boss DR550 Mk II
Two years after the launch of the original Boss DR550 drum machine, a mere £26 extra buys you a DR550 Mkll with almost twice the mumber of sounds. DEREK JOHNSON approves.
Hands On OnSTAGE
Hands On's OnSTAGE package frees your ST from its monitor, and turns it into a gigging sequencer. DEREK JOHNSON checks it out.
Kenton Pro 2
Kenton Electronics are well-known for their quality internal MIDI retrofits for analogue synths. PAUL IRESON gets converted to their new stand-alone MIDI-to-CV interface.
LA Audio MIDI Mute
PAUL WHITE evaluates this compact and cost-effective means of adding sequencer-driven mute automation to any mixing console.
REGULARS
Shape Of Things To Come
Another round-up of new products, plus news from the world of hi-tech music.
Hands On: Casio DA7
Casio's DA7 is one of the cheapest DAT recorders on the market, yet it is still a suitable machine for mastering. DAVID MELLOR reveals its better features and finds ways round a couple of problems.
Drum Programming: Part 4
In this month's instalment, WARREN CANN circumnavigates his drum machine in search of the perfect song map.
ST Notes
Mac Notes
PC Notes Amiga Notes
Sample Shop
Groove guru WILF SMARTIES reports on the latest sample CDs
Software Support
This month, helpful hints for users of Steinberg, Opcode, and Dr. T's music software.
Russlings
20 Things You Probably Never Knew About CD.
TORI AMOS
From her early years as a restless prodigy through her bout with dance music to her success as a songwriter and singer, the story behind this gifted artist is even more starting than the pictures painted on Little Earthquakes. Plus, a transcription of her dramatic reworking of Nirvana's "Smells Like Teen Spirit."
WORLD VIEW
The Bonedaddys storm the club circuit. Awadagin Pratt stuns the Naumburg Competition. Chris Burke debunks Desert Storm. Plus news from all over.
KEYBOARD CLINIC: C-LAB NOTATOR
Advanced groove construction, customizing the RMG sliders, fine-tuning tracks in HyperEdit, and other surprising user insights into a powerful and popular Atari sequencer.
JASON MILES
New York's ace session synth player/programmer takes a break from dates with Luther Vandross, Chaka Khan, and other heavyweights to sound off on what's right — and wrong with Japanese synth companies, "getting over," and those guys out in L.A.
WENDY CARLOS, PART 2
Further reflections on Switched-On Bach 2000 and the state of modern synthesis from the artist who introduced the world to the synthesizer.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
134 PEAVEY DPM C8 MIDI master keyboard.
JLCOOPER MIXMASTER & CM AUTOMATION MX-816 MIDI-automated level controllers.
AKAI MX1000 MIDI master keyboard.
SHORT TAKES Stryline DS-4P ("world's smallest sampler"), Gravitron MIDI-Optimizer (world's longest MIDI cable), Eye & I Merger Plus and MIDI Crystal.
INSTRUCTIONAL COLUMNS
COMPUTERS Geoffrey Ryle speeds up your Apple, Atari, and PC.
SYNTH BASICS Jim Aikin explains sequencer tracks and clock resolution.
IMPROVISATIONAL PIANO Robert L. Doerschuk corrals Little Richard.
INSIDE THE MUSIC Dave Stewart spices up solo sounds.
POWER SEQUENCING Craig Anderton's tips: on signal processing with sequencers.
SONGWRITING Jesse Harms knows all the words.
REEL WORLD NOTEBOOK Jeff Rona wraps up Poison Ivy.
WINDOWS 3.1
With its Mac-like environment, Windows 3.1 offers enticing possibilities for musicians who would like to save money on an IBM clone. But how competitive are the sequencer and notation programs in this format? What can users expect in the near future? When all's said and done, is the Mac really home port for today's musicians? Keyboard peers through Windows 3.1.
WORLD VIEW
The Synclavier is gone. The Chamberlain is back. The Power Glove is at hand. And news from around the world abounds.
GALLERY OF VINTAGE GEAR
Thirty years ago Don Buchla nudged music closer to the modern era with his first modular synth. This year, it changed one electronic music student's idea of "awesome." Meet "The Buchla."
TURNTABLE JOCKEYS
A new generation of DJs takes the art of record-spinning and needle-scratching from dance clubs to the world of experimental music.
MASTER CLASS: RICHIE BEIRACH, PART 2 Final thoughts on reharmonization. Plus reflections on the classical connection to improvisation, and an inspired mo- ment from a Beirach solo, transcribed and analyzed.
ISTRUCTIONAL COLUMNS
REEL WORLD NOTEBOOK Jeff Rona invents an orchestra for Sony.
INSIDE THE MUSIC Dave Stewart gets his licks in.
ARRANGING Eric Turkel moves past orchestra hits.
POWER SEQUENCING Craig Anderton syncs delay and panning effects.
BASICS Jim Aikin demystifies sequencer editing.
MAKING TRACKS Brent Hurtig ties up patchbays.
IMPROVISATIONAL PIANO Robert L. Doerschuk spins the Chuck Berry wheel.
DRUM MACHINE PROGRAMMING Norman Weinberg seeks that human feel.
MIND OVER MIDI Chris Meyer recalls the long- forgotten legato spec.
COMPUTERS Geoffrey Ryle exorcizes computer poltergeists.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
KORG 03R/W Synthesizer module
SHORT TAKES Five Pin Press 260 Drum Patterns. Voice MIDI Drawbar.
COUNTRY KEYBOARDS: NEW SOUNDS, NEW PLAYERS Who's behind the explosion in country music? Only some of the hottest synth and piano jockeys in the business. The three top-call studio key- boardists in Nashville tell how they helped define the new country style and found life beyond "the Floyd lick."
WORLD VIEW
Scoring the SubGenius. Reviving the Dregs with T Lavitz. Remembering John Cage. Plus news from around the world.
VIDEO GAMES: THE NEW FRONTIER
Save your quarters! Start making money from video games! All you need is the right gear, an ear for orchestrating cosmic zapps and siren whines, a few connections, and you, too, can start programming music and sound effects for itchy-fingered 14-year-old Mario Brothers junkies.
KEYBOARD CLINIC: YAMAHA SY22
Adventures in vector synthesis, with power tips on rate scaling, dynamic panning, detuning, joystick controls, and other functions on this popular 16-voice machine.
GREGG GIUFFRIA
After years of battling industry preconceptions about wimpy keyboard players, Giuffria sets his Hammond aside, plugs into a high-tech groove with House of Lords, and wonders whether the grunge-and-grind days of rock organ are over.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
ALESIS ADAT Eight-track digital audio recorder.
DIGITECH VHM 5 VOCALIST Vocal harmony processor.
ENSONIQ KS-32 Synthesizer.
INSTRUCTIONAL COLUMNS
BASICS Jim Aikin separates the ROM from the RAM.
INSIDE THE MUSIC Dave Stewart explores the basics of soloing.
DRUM MACHINE PROGRAMMING Norman Weinberg suggests sampling old drum machines.
COMPUTERS Geoffrey Ryle connects with musician service networks.
POWER SEQUENCING Craig Anderton dissects dance tracks
MIND OVER MIDI Chris Meyer talks straight on bent notes.
MAKING TRACKS Brent Hurtig paints three pictures for scoring.
REEL WORLD NOTEBOOK Jeff Rona tackles orchestral simulation.
BUYER'S GUIDE '93
No plot, not much action, but a great cast of characters: It's our third annual Buyer's Guide, and the focus this year is on drum units and rack-mounted effects. Cross your eyes, haul out your calculator, and dive in.
DRUM MACHINES & MODULES: REVIEWS
Thumbnail ratings on 19 of the most popular programmable products on the market. most popular pr
DRUM MACHINES & MODULES: THE CHART OF DOOM
Cold hard stats on the top beat-keepers.
DRUM MACHINES & MODULES: TIMING TESTS
How consistent is the internal timing in nine leading drum machines? How quickly will 16 machines and modules respond to MIDI input? We've got the answers.
EFFECTS: THE REVIEWS
The basic scoop on 29 leading rack-mount, affordable units.
EFFECTS: YET ANOTHER KILLER CHART
More tiny numbers. Sure, it's boring, but it's what you need to know to rate today's effects.
EFFECTS: HOW TO REVERB
Music is a total wash without reverb. Here's how to get the depth you need.
EFFECTS IN MOTION
Sure-fire ways to shape reverb, chorus, and other effects in performance.
MANUFACTURER ADDRESSES
How to contact the people behind all the gear listed in this issue.
INSTRUCTIONAL COLUMNS
REEL WORLD NOTEBOOK Jeff Rona tackles Tom & Jerry.
POWER SEQUENCING Craig Anderton empties his bag of tips.
MAKING TRACKS Brent Hurtig does it live.
IMPROVISATIONAL PIANO Robert L. Doerschuk rides that sleigh.
ARRANGING Eric Turkel tries a looser drum groove.
DRUM MACHINE PROGRAMMING Norman Weinberg takes his time on ballads.
MIND OVER MIDI Chris Meyer toasts ten years of MIDI.
INSIDE THE MUSIC Dave Stewart finally finds his niche.
COMPUTERS Geoffrey Ryle boots up OMS and MIDI Manager.
CREATIVE OPTIONS Connor Freff Cochran finds no despair in hope.
WORLD VIEW Art Neville sequences the New Orleans groove. Mixmeister Peter Daou kicks computers out of his house. Steve Porcaro hits the road.
FEATURES
Rediscovering The Yamaha DMP7
Studio Construction Set: Choosing Personal Studio Hardware.
Interview: Carrie Booth
REVIEWS
Emu MPS Plus Orchestral Keyboard
Twelve Tone Systems Cakewalk Pro For Windows
Soundcraft Spirit Auto Mixer Behringer Studio Effects
Zoom 9120 Digital Effects Processor
ART Multiverb Alpha 2.0 & DRX2100 Dynacord CLS222 Leslie Simulator
Dr. T's QuickScore Deluxe
REGULARS
Shape Of Things To Come
A Room Of My Own
Live End Sampling Techniques Drum Programming:
A Series By Warren Cann. Part 8. Hands On: Yamaha DX7
Atari Notes
Apple Notes PC Notes Amiga Notes
SOS On-line - Your Letters
Night Of The Demo
Sample Shop Free Classifieds Software Support
PEOPLE & PLACES
Mark St. John.... Head to head with one of the British recording industry's most outspoken critics as he gets behind the faders on a unique recording session in London's West End
Guy Michelmore. The BBC news-reader reveals his other great passion: writing and recording music for TV at his own home studio
Fostex MC102
A comprehensive line-level mixer with the added bonus of a built- in Dolby C stereo cassette deck - but is it good value for money?
Aphex Aural Exciter Туре С2
The original sonic enhancer adds a new string to its bow with a 'Big Bottom' circuit that allows it to tackle lows as well as highs
Tannoy System 15 DMT-II
They're big, they're butch - and they may just be the finest dual- concentric monitors Tannoy have ever built! Take cover!
Zoom 9120
A multi-FX unit which specialises in fine- sounding and usable reverb programs - is it a Quadraverb killer?
The multitrack MoT
Secondhand tape decks have never been so cheap, but how can you be sure you're not buying a pup? Our eight-point checklist should do the job
Chris Meyer.
Why the best New Year present you could give your studio won't cost you a penny
Vic Lennard
Check those connectors before you hit record - your pulse rate will thank you for it!
Ben Duncan.
How changing technology has made it easier to record live vocals
Index 1992
Every piece of studio hardware we reviewed in '92, listed by product type
The Studio Buyer's Guide
Our unique buyer's guide returns to multitrack and mastering machines this month; if you're looking for a new reel-to-reel, DAT or cassette deck, this is the place to start
Review: Simple sampling
High quality samplers can set you back a good couple of thousand quid and involve so many complicated functions that getting results only adds to the headache. Now Akai's new S01 sampler aims to give you high-quality sampling for under £700 does it manage to deliver?
DJ-70 road test
Roland's DJ-70 sampling workstation is designed for the professional DJ, so instead of just reviewing it we gave one to a group of mixing DJs to test it thoroughly in the studio and on the road under real conditions.
Review: Keys to success?
Sometimes you don't need or want to synthesise sounds, especially if there's a keyboard with built-in sounds that will do the job. Find out if the new Technics KN650 home keyboard can meet your needs.
Review: Spirit Live Four
We test this comprehensive mixing desk to see if it's one you should think of using for live performances.
Review: Yamaha EMP700
Can this multi-effects processor and its free cards of extra effects give you the right sound?
Review: Korg 03R/W and SR They look alike and cost within 80-odd quid of each other, but are they really about equal? We compare these two similar sound modules to see which one suits your needs.
Make music anywhere
You never can tell where inspiration will strike, so what do you do if you want to record or create your music outdoors without having to lug around a lot of heavy kit? And what about techie busking? We get it all out in the open.
Review: books
Three books get a thorough thumbing to find out if they can help you make your music better.
Gift ideas
Some handy gift ideas for the music lover in your life - serious and not-so-serious or some thoughts on what to buy with that Christmas cash that granny gave you.
Review: Cubase Audio
Mac Can this MIDI sequencing and hard disk recording soft- ware get ahead of the competition?.
Review: Jazz Improviser
ST We reveal whether this improvisation-teaching software can help you to jazz up your style.
Review: MasterTracks Pro 4
PC We put the latest version of this successful sequencer to the test and see what it has to offer.
How to: use PVG
Amiga Find out how you can get the best from the Pro- grammable Variations Generator in Dr T's KCS.
Career Advice
We reveal how you can get yourself a career in the music industry without ever having to play a note, in the second part of a two-part feature on careers in studio engineering, programming and production.
98 Buyers' guides
The indispensable guide to all the music hardware and software currently available. If you're not quite sure what's right for you, this is the place to look.
INSIDE THE SIMPSONS
The real action isn't at the nuclear plant or the Quickie Mart. It's in the studio, where a hyperproduc- tive army of musical pros churns out a score a week for America's favorite pop-eyed family. Key- board takes you behind the scenes.
WORLD VIEW
Liz Story experiences an epiphany. Kitaro and Jon Anderson realize their Dream. Sucking Chest Wound keeps on pumpin'. Plus news from far and wide.
KEYBOARD READERS POLL
Vote for the best players and products of '92.
AES REPORT: DIGITAL TAKES OVER
It's official: Digital recording and editing technology is here to stay. Join us on a tour of the latest Audio Engineering Society show, where hardware and software
breakthroughs were the order of the day. But leave your rock star rags at home.
TOMMY BARBARELLA
The latest in Prince's line of synth heavy- weights candidly analyzes his boss and recalls high points of recording with the New Power Generation.
KEYBOARD INDEX
A catalog of all the features and columns printed in '92.
INSTRUCTIONAL COLUMNS
IMPROVISATIONAL PIANO Robert L. Doerschuk goes up the country.
COMPUTERS Geoffrey Ryle unleashes Atari's Falcon030.
MIND OVER MIDI Chris Meyer confronts channel glut.
VINTAGE SYNTHS Mark Vail recalls the original E-mu Emulator.
DRUM MACHINE PROGRAMMING Norman Weinberg takes it slow.
REEL WORLD NOTEBOOK Jeff Rona savors his favorite accidents.
INSIDE THE MUSIC Dave Stewart remains immobile.
DEPARTMENTS
GUEST EDITORIAL The relevancy gap in music education.
CREATIVE OPTIONS Connor Freff Cochran informs the aliens.
OTHER WINDOWS Jim Aikin takes a deep breath.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
GENERALMUSIC S2 Synthesizer.
CUBASE AUDIO Mac sequencer/hard disk recorder.
SHORT TAKES Viscount D9E organ mod- ule, Hands-On Software OnStage MIDI File Player for Atari, Anatek Wind Machine breath-control interface.
FEATURES
Interview: A Certain Ratio
Is MIDI Good Enough?
Interview: Youth
REVIEWS
Yamaha QY20 Music Sequencer
Boss DR660 Drum Machine
Opcode Vision 1.4 Mac Sequencer
Ensoniq ASR10 Sampling Workstation Opcode Audioshop Software
Zoom 9001 Multi-effects
Sound Quest Universal ST Editor/Librarian
REGULARS
Shape Of Things To Come
Live End
Hands On:
Tascam & Fostex 24-Tracks
Drum Programming:
A Series By Warren Cann. Part 9.
Sampling Techniques
SOS On-line
Your Letters
Night Of The Demo Sample Shop
Atari Notes
Apple Notes
PC Notes Amiga Notes
Free Classifieds
Software Support
DAVID BRYAN OF BON JOVI
After battling bizarre parasites, scoring a boffo B-movie, and stretch- ing his programming chops, Bon Jovi's synth ace blasts back with a rock-solid performance on Keep the Faith and fightin' words for Keyboard.
WORLD VIEW
John Cale rediscovers technique. Scott Kinsey schleps with Tribal Tech. k.d. Lang transforms country music with two synth sidekicks. Plus news from far and wide.
MICHAEL W. SMITH
The king of Christian keyboards dissects his latest solo album, Change Your World, and explains the difference between crossing over and selling out.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MIDI!
Ten years of revolutionary technology, along with critiques of current developments and forecasts of future possibilities from Bob Moog, Dave Smith, Jim Cooper, Tom Rhea, and other experts.
KEYBOARD CLINIC: KURZWEIL K2000
Beginning and advanced programming, real-time control, memory management, and other essentials.
INSTRUCTIONAL COLUMNS
BASICS Jim Aikin explores patch and sequence storage.
REEL WORLD NOTEBOOK Jeff Rona goes analog on Toys.
INSIDE THE MUSIC Dave Stewart gets even horribler.
COMPUTERS Geoffrey Ryle details data storage options.
MIND YOUR OWN BUSINESS Robert Coleman sells business smarts.
DRUM MACHINE PROGRAMMING Norman Weinberg shares sampling secrets.
MAKING TRACKS Brent Hurtig offers feedback on miking.
IMPROVISATIONAL PIANO Robert L. Doerschuk gets his Floyd licks in.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
YAMAHA SY85 Synthesizer.
MIDISOFT STUDIO Sequencer for IBM & Windows.
MOTU MOSAIC Notation software for Macintosh.
SHORT TAKES Sony DPS-D7 digital delay. Aphex C2 with Big Bottom. Novation MM10 portable MIDI keyboard.
REGULARS
Shape Of Things To Come
Live End
Hands On:
Roland TR808
A Room Of My Own: Workshy
Drum Programming:
A Series By Warren Cann. Part 10.
Sampling Techniques
SOS On-line - Your Letters
Night Of The Demo
Sample Shop
FEATURES
Is Analogue Multitrack Dead?
Interview: Klaus Schulze
Interview: Ministry
REVIEWS
Soundcraft Spirit Folio Mixer
Yamaha RM50 Drum Expander
Steinberg Cubase For Windows
Emu Elllxp Sampler
Dynacord DRP15 Digital Effects
Mark Of The Unicorn MIDI Time Piece II
Atari Notes
Apple Notes
PC Notes Amiga Notes
Free Classifieds
Software Support
KEITH JARRETT
An epochal pianist, whose uncompromising standards apply to both improvisatory and written music, finds scant sustenance in America's cultural desert.
WORLD VIEW
Culture clash and Moroccan roll at Expo '92. Comdex delegates frolic in Vegas. And news pours in from around the world.
CONTROLLER ODDITIES
Bob Moog recalls landmarks, milestones, detours, and dead ends in the colorful history of non-keyboard electronic controllers.
MEET THE GENERAL
Who or what is it? How will it affect your music? Which module should you buy? What kinds of problems can you expect as GM becomes part of our technological language? Here are the hard facts about the latest Next Big Thing.
MINI-REVIEWS
Succinct evaluations of seven GM modules from Dream, Kawai, Korg, Roland, and Yamaha.
BASIC FEATURES
The relevant stats on all seven modules.
LISTENING TESTS
The ears have it in this unit-by-unit perusal of GM modules. Plus a sidebar especially for total novices on how these units performed straight out of the box.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
ENSONIQ ASR-10 Keyboard sampler.
SPECK ELECTRONICS XTRAMIX Rack-mount synth/sampler mixer.
INSTRUCTIONAL COLUMNS
BASICS Jim Aikin explains sys-ex bulk dumps.
ARRANGING Eric Turkel jump-starts tired grooves.
DRUM MACHINE PROGRAMMING Norman Weinberg exhumes '70s funk.
REEL WORLD NOTEBOOK Jeff Rona digs deeper into Toys.
MIND YOUR OWN BUSINESS Robert Coleman assumes the position.
MAKING TRACKS Brent Hurtig suits up for a live session.
IMPROVISATIONAL PIANO Robert L. Doerschuk ponders Floydism.
POWER SEQUENCING Craig Anderton catches a rave.
VINTAGE SYNTHS Mark Vail plugs in the EML line.
M1 SOUNDS: THE HOTTEST & THE NOTTEST
Straight, no-bull reviews of nearly 60 sound banks for the most popular synth on the market. Plus a primer on Korg's M1 operating system, and a few bizarre bugs and glitches.
WORLD VIEW
Former suit plugs in with 10,000 Maniacs. Erstwhile Moldavian launches one-man Disklavier quintet. Jan Hammer finds life after Vice. Kevin Moore discovers the prog-thrash nexus with Dream Theater.
MITCHELL FROOM
Despite impeccable credits as producer and player with Elvis Costello, the Pretenders, and Crowded House, Froom has grave doubts about the state of modern rock keyboard performance, and charges that the players, not the equipment, bear most of the blame.
DAVID PAICH: "JAKE TO THE BONE"
Tucked at the end of Toto's Kingdom of Desire is a killer instru- mental with the hottest solo we've ever heard from Paich. Skep- tical? Check this transcription, and Paich's reflections on the session. Case closed.
TECHNO: THE SYNTH-ROCK APOCALYPSE
Meet the new iconoclasts - Orbital, LFO, T99, Third Eye, and the other brave new cyborgs whose high-adrenalin sequences, buzz-saw sounds, and punk/freak attitudes are changing the face and pace of pop.
INSTRUCTIONAL COLUMNS
REEL WORLD NOTEBOOK Jeff Rona puts his Toys away.
BASICS Jim Aikin boots up editor/librarians.
INSIDE THE MUSIC Dave Stewart survives "Mumps."
MIND OVER MIDI Chris Meyer powers down.
POWER SEQUENCING Craig Anderton shares editing tips with Mozart.
DRUM MACHINE PROGRAMMING Norman Weinberg beats out a funk update.
COMPUTERS ON-LINE Geoff Ryle explains copy-protection.
MIND YOUR OWN BUSINESS Robert Coleman recycles your career.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
142 FATAR STUDIO 2001 MIDI master keyboard.
News
It's hard. It's pithy. It's the FM news- gathering machine in full effect. Find out what's going on.
The Shamen - live!
We reveal how this chart-topping outfit activates the rhythm on stage.
The Aphex Twin
Get doubly excited about this young 'un's views on making music in modern times.
Head-to-head: PA systems Discover the best sub-£2,000 public address system for you in our exhaustive test.
Review: Vintage Keys E-mu goes retro with a classic-sound tone generator.
Review: Spirit Folio A budget mixing desk for the masses. We twiddle its knobs.
Review: Yamaha RM50 A powerful percussion module gets the bashing of its life in the nicest possible way, of course.
Review: Lexicon effects A brace of effectors and a controller device thingy, all thoroughly rattled.
Review: Peavey PC1600 Is this MIDI controller one brilliant idea, or what? We tell you.
Review: Sample CDs
The latest samples taken for a spin.
Set up a home studio Part two of our beginners' guide to recording in the home.
Get your mics right
Part two of top producer André Jacquemin's exposé of professional microphone techniques.
What's MIDI?
The mysteries of MIDI program changes explained.
Review: Sunrize software Amiga Sunrize Industry's soundcard has updated software. We test it.
Head-to-head: Soundcards PC Find out which sampling sound- card is right for your PC.
Review: Notator Logic Mac The new sequencer from Emagic is it truly magic?
Review: Atari Falcon Falcon Hard disk multi-track recording comes to the new com- puter on the block.
Interface
Our team of experts relieves yet more technological vexation.
Buyers' guides
Indispensable guides to music hardware and software.
Breakers
Sound career advice from bands just bubbling under.
NAMM: NEW GEAR, OLD GRUB, THIN CARPETS
All's (relatively) quiet on the synth and sampler front, but this year's gathering of the music industry tribes confronted break- through products in digital recording, along with plenty of MIDI devices, software, and even an empty grand piano case.
WORLD VIEW
A twirl or two in the BodySynth. A visit to the Grey Ghost's haunts. A born-again Lynyrd Skynyrd. Flaming with Youth. The transfiguration of Georgia Tom. Plus news you can use.
KEYBOARD POLL RESULTS
Your picks for the best players and products of '92.
DEPECHE MODE
"Designated musician" Alan Wilder leads us through Songs of Faith and Devotion and explains why this pioneering synth- rock ensemble could never make it on the pub circuit.
MOTOWN: ANATOMY OF A HIT-MAKING SOUND The key to the label's success wasn't Diana Ross, Marvin Gaye, or any of the other stars. It was the band, led by a pianist whose name you probably don't even know.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
ENSONIQ ASR-10, PART 2 SCSI option & CD-ROMs.
ZOOM 9001 Stereo multi-effects processor.
E-MU VINTAGE KEYS Rack-mount sample-playback synth.
SHORT TAKES Peavey DPM Spectrum Bass synth module, Korg Wavestation SR.
INSTRUCTIONAL COLUMNS
POWER SEQUENCING Craig Anderton unplugs his sync.
DRUM MACHINE PROGRAMMING Norman Weinberg tweaks the time.
MAKING TRACKS Brent Hurtig goes with the flow (chart).
MULTIMEDIA Tom Yager presents the geeks of tomorrow.
IMPROVISATIONAL PIANO Robert L. Doerschuk confronts the Killer.
MIND YOUR OWN BUSINESS Robert Coleman peers beyond stars.
INSIDE THE MUSIC Dave Stewart tinkles your bells.
COMPUTERS Geoffrey Ryle plugs into multi-port MIDI interfaces.
PEOPLE & PLACES
Vince Clarke's secret studio 'Somewhere in Europe' is the amazing pre-production suite where Erasure's music is born - we take an exclusive peek inside and talk to the man himself about his methods
Education Special. As recording becomes an integral part of education, we present a six-page guide to how you and your studio could be used by schools - and it may even make you some money!
PRODUCT
Marantz PMD740. The multitracker market is set to explode over the next few months, and this innovative four- track leads the line; can a new name teach us some new tricks?
Pro Monitor Company LB1s From a company new to studio circles come these interesting transmission line speakers; do the design quirks work?
Ensoniq ASR-10R/ The rack-mounting, studio-friendly version of Ensoniq's newest sampler is now out - how does it measure up to the competition?
Nakamichi DR-3. Cassette decks rarely get the attention they deserve in the average control room - here's one that simply demands to be noticed
SansAmp Rack. A rack-mount guitar pre-amp with few frills but plenty of versatility - but is it good value for money?
Beyer IRS-790. Everyone agrees infra-red headphones are a neat idea - but do they sound good enough for serious session work?
Voice Spectral CD. A thousand vocal samples on a single disc - and no hassles with copyright, either
ADVICE & OPINION
All Quiet on the Western Front. The second part of our unique room-by- room guide to soundproofing examines attics and spare bedrooms
Effective Solutions. The latest instalment in our series on creative signal-processing looks at pitch-shifting, how it works and how to use it
Vic Lennard. Keep your studio tidy - or face the consequences
Ben Duncan. Phase problems - what they are and what they aren't
The Studio Buyer's. Our unbeatable consumer guide returns to multitrack and mastering recorders this month; if you need a new tape deck, this is the place to look first
REGULARS
Shape Of Things To Come Live End
A Room Of My Own:
John Crossley
Drum Programming:
A Series By Warren Cann. Part 13.
Hands On: Large Diaphragm Microphones SOS On-line - Your Letters
Night Of The Demo - Your Tapes Sample Shop - Latest CDs
Atari Notes
Apple Notes
PC Notes Amiga Notes
Free Classifieds
SOS Bookshop
Software Support
FEATURES
Interview: The Orb
Optical Media Explained Interview: Paul 'Wix' Wickens
How To Tune Your Breakbeats
Index To Past SOS Articles
REVIEWS
Roland SP700 Sample Player Studiomaster P7 Mixer
Lexicon Alex Effects Processor Peavey Spectrum Bass Expander EMAGIC NOTATOR LOGIC 1.2 Phonic PMX-1600A Mixer
Real Drum Company MasterKit CD-ROM Passport MusicTime Notation Software Tascam MM200 Mixer
Heavenly Music MIDI File Patterns
BRUCE HORNSBY: WORDS AND MUSIC
A close encounter at the keyboard with a master of modern rock piano, who explains his approach to songwriting and performance and shows why even one note makes all the difference in the craft of voicing chords.
WORLD VIEW
Oskar Sala assesses his six decades with the Trautonium. Scott Cossu recovers his lost past. Carla Bley shapes up. Blues women get uppity. A Mellotron celebration. Plus news you
can use.
ROGER MANNING OF JELLYFISH
O Jellyfish, where is thy sting? In the careful keyboard arrange- ments and compositions of Roger Manning, who makes no apologies for celebrating Badfinger, Supertramp, and the Beatles on Spilt Milk.
DIGIDESIGN DREAM GIVEAWAY
Win a Digidesign Session 8-based home studio stocked with high-powered gear from 11 top manufacturers! Total value - $21,952.95!
SCSI SURVIVAL GUIDE
Been burned by SCSI gremlins? Don't power down: These guidelines give you a fighting chance to get your system in gear and keep that data flowing.
COMBO ORGAN CAVALCADE
Polish up those Beatle boots, dust off your Paul Revere duds, and get ready to wail down memory lane as we recall the Vox Continental, the Farfisa Compact Deluxe, and other icons of '60s garage rock.
MIDI FILES: SHORTCUT TO COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT Unauthorized transfer of song sequences over MIDI files is threatening the rights of composers. Is there anything the gov- ernment can do to safeguard your songs?
KEYBOARD REPORTS
YAMAHA RM50 Rack-mount percussion synthesizer.
ROLAND DJ-70 Scratch pad & sampler.
KURZWEIL K2000 SAMPLING OPTION Sequencer/hardware upgrade.
MOTU DIGITAL PERFORMER Software/hard disk recorder.
FOSTEX DCM100/MIXTAB MIDI-controlled mixer.
BBE 462 Signal processor.
INSTRUCTIONAL COLUMNS
MIND YOUR OWN BUSINESS Robert Coleman beats the competition.
BASICS Jim Aikin brings synth program- ming up to date.
COMPUTERS ON-LINE Geoffrey Ryle introduces MIDI Machine Control.
MAKING TRACKS Brent Hurtig mixes it up live.
IMPROVISATIONAL PIANO Robert L. Doerschuk smears Jerry Lee Lewis.
MULTIMEDIA Tom Yager outlines multimedia PC system basics.
INSIDE THE MUSIC Dave Stewart kiosks.
VINTAGE SYNTHS: THE RETRO REVOLUTION
They're old, they're out of production - and they're some of the hottest items on the music market. Here's why the Minimoog, the Prophet-5, and other classic axes are indispensable again.
GET 'EM WHILE THEY'RE HOT!
Where to go and how much to spend for the stone-age synths you crave.
WORLD VIEW
Lyle Mays goes back to basics. Meat Beat Manifesto watches TV. British TV watches Jools Holland. Plunderphonics sweeps Japan. Plus scoring the Knicks, surviving a Trekfest, and grooving on Booble.
DIGIDESIGN DREAM GIVEAWAY
You've got one more chance to win a Digidesign Session 8- based home studio stocked with high-powered gear from 11 top manufacturers! Total value - $21,952.95!
KEITH EMERSON'S GEAR
He's also groovy and fab, but his current keyboard setup is pure killer. Check out our diagrams, photos, and equipment break- downs of the rig driven by Keith on this year's ELP tour.
EMF
If a little knowledge is a dangerous thing, then EMF is the scariest group on the road this summer. Sample manipulator Derry Brownson weighs the risks of punching out keys, going gooey, and tainting hard-core attitude with musical knowledge.
SECRETS OF JAZZ TIMING
You know the voicings, you've transcribed the solos. So how do you swing? Pianist Andy LaVerne shares his techniques for developing a true feel for jazz time.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
DIGIDESIGN SESSION 8 Digital audio recording/mixing system for IBM.
AKAI S3000 Sampler.
INSTRUCTIONAL COLUMNS
POWER SEQUENCING Craig Anderton is blowing in the wind.
MAKING TRACKS Brent Hurtig wraps up live recording.
MULTIMEDIA Tom Yager blueprints an MPC system.
INSIDE THE MUSIC Dave Stewart coexists with sequencers.
DRUM MACHINE PROGRAMMING Norman Weinberg personalizes the beat.
REEL WORLD NOTEBOOK Jeff Rona considers Homicide.
BASICS Jim Aikin shows how synths make sound.
SPINNING UP WITH CD-ROMs
An exciting new technology offers vast resources for sampler players- and career opportunities for budding multimedia mavens. We chart sampler- compatible drives, sort out data formats, and explain how to press it yourself.
CD-ROMS FOR SAMPLERS
If you're SCSI-ready, a cornucopia awaits. All the titles we could track down, listed by instrument.
WORLD VIEW
Suzanne Ciani seeks inspiration, Marc Cohn writes on an upright, three-year-olds teethe on Bach, Roger Craig boosts Boris Yeltsin, Richard Band finds horror under the full moon. Plus six grands in search of identity.
TODD RUNDGREN
Always on the experimental edge, our favorite Utopian guitarist and songwriter reveals the Buddhist philosophy behind his new interactive CD-ROM album.
PETER GABRIEL
Behind the scenes for the magic-meister's latest mu- sic and videos, courtesy of a CD-ROM from Brilliant Media.
DONALD FAGEN
The driving force behind Steely Dan is back, with a new CD that merges classic '70s jazz grooves with '90s recording techniques. Fagen talks about horn charts, drum machines, and his long hiatus from the spotlight, and we transcribe and dissect two of his masterful rhythm section mixes.
DIGIDESIGN DREAM GIVEAWAY
Okay, this time we're not kidding. You've really got only one more chance to win one of two Digidesign Session 8-based home studios stocked with high-powered gear from 11 top manufacturers! Total value of each studio- $21,952.95!
KEYBOARD REPORTS
YAMAHA QY20 Micro-synthesizer/sequencer.
PEAVEY DPM si Extended-keyboard synthesizer.
E-MU IIIxs Rack-mount sampler.
YAMAHA TG500 Rack-mount synth module.
VOCE MICRO B Half-rack organ module.
ROLAND JD-990 Rack-mount synth module.
DOEPFER MAQ 16/3 Analog-style MIDI sequencer.
YAMAHA CLAVINOVA PF P-100 Digital piano.
INSTRUCTIONAL COLUMNS
BASICS Jim Aikin addresses envelope generators.
IMPROVISATIONAL PIANO Robert L. Doerschuk looks for a motive.
REEL WORLD NOTEBOOK Jeff Rona commits homicide on schedule.
INSIDE THE MUSIC Dave Stewart scales the high Cs.
MULTIMEDIA Tom Yager pries open bundled software.
POWER SEQUENCING Craig Anderton gets down with some bass bends.
DRUM MACHINE PROGRAMMING Norm Weinberg beats the odds.
Wie weiß ist der Soul? Interview mit Daryl Hall
Music 2000 Folge III: Gesten-Controller und andere neue Interfaces (2)
Buchtip Mark Vail: Vintage Synthesizers
Tips & Tricks zum Ensoniq TS-10
Synthesizer von gestern Crumar Digital Synthesizer DS 2
Harte Zeiten? Harddisks in der Praxis
Soundforum Jurassic Sounds
Musik-Journal Elektronik Neues aus der Elektronik-Szene
CD-Mix Die wichtigsten CD-Neuerscheinungen.
Homerecording-Wettbewerb '93
Korg 13 Interactive Music- Workstation
SPL Stereo-Vitalizer Psychoacoustic Equalizer
Roland SRV-330 & SDE-330 Hall- und Delay- Effektprozessoren
Steinberg Cubase Score für Windows Sequenzer/Notations- software für PC
Steinberg Time Bandit 1.0 Timecorrection-Software für Mac
Yamaha CBX-D5 Digital Recording Prozessor
Metra Sound MIDI Link 486 PC-MIDI-File-Player
Hotz Translator MIDI-Controller
Eventide H3500 Dynamic Ultra-Harmonizer
KEYBOARDS-Börse Die aktuellen Gebrauchtmarkt-Preise
Matt Bianco - Get Out Of Your Lazy Bed
Blues & Boogie Walking-Bässe (2)
Jazz PianoÜbungen zum Parallelspiel
Klavier für Einsteiger Boogle Heavy
Pop-Piano Earth Wind And Fire
Leserbriefe
News
KEYBOARDS-Kartei Ensoniq ASR-10, Casio VZ-1, Korg 03R/W
WORLD VIEW
Richard Barbieri escapes from Japan. Billy Idol scans new vistas in press agentry. The Light Harp illuminates electronic perfor- mance. The Leningrad Cowboys hit the trail. And much more.
WEIGHTED-ACTION CONTROLLERS
Five keyboards with the feel that's real for playing piano samples expressively.
PIANO TIMELINE
Bach as a sales rep, the great bonfire of '04, and other high- lights in piano history.
THE ART OF PIANO SAMPLING
Find out what goes into making a sampled piano. Also, what to listen for when shopping for an electronic piano.
EAR TEST: SYNTH-PIANOS Keyboard rates 11 leading synthesizers on their factory sounds.
EAR TEST: SAMPLED PIANOS Eleven vendors vie for top honors in the piano sample wars.
STEINWAY: THE MYTH & THE MUSIC A look behind rumors of a piano giant's decline.
PIANO TECHNOLOGY: THE PERSISTENCE OF INNOVATION Portraits of two small manufacturers and one craftsman whose ideas are keeping innovation alive in the art of piano design.
HOW TO BUY A PIANO Inside tips on what to look for and listen to in choosing the best piano your money can buy.
EAR TEST: DIGITAL PIANOS Touch, feel, sound: How do the leading digital pianos stack up?
VINTAGE ELECTRIC PIANOS Arpeggiate down memory lane as we remember electric pianos from the good old days of me- chanical actions.
DIGITAL PIANOS AT A GLANCE A listing of every 88-key, weighted-action, digital piano with built-in amplification.
IN REVIEW
Negativland, Moby, Jessica Williams.
REEL WORLD NOTEBOOK Jeff Rona gets spaced in the Dolby Matrix.
INSIDE THE MUSIC Dave Stewart battles the Dreaded Hum.
LETTERS
An SE-50 helps one user create great demos; An ME-6 survives a flood; An experienced jazzer falls in love with his GR-1; Drum sounds and Boss pedals - a sizzling combination.
RANDOM NOISE
Barbra Streisand's concert of the decade; On the 'telly with the Hellecasters; Béla Fleck and the Flecktones get real- and unreal; Mike Pinder comes Off The Shelf; Peter Schwartz takes the high road.
CURRENTS
Roland announces an Alliance with Fender, Ovation and Godin; Roland helps Knotts with Peanuts Festival; Duquesne University brings MIDI to music education; Roland on the information superhighway; New Product Literature.
BOSS HARDWARE
The new DR-5 Dr. Rhythm Section rocks the house down; The BOSS ME-X allows expandable effects setup; The RV- 3 and PS-3 Footpedals keep kickin'
ROLAND HARDWARE
The latest and greatest digital sampler- the S-760; New Expandable JV Synthesizers; The biggest Sound Canvas of them all; New GR-09 Guitar Synth; E-66 Intelligent Synthesizer; RD-500 Digital Stage Piano; 3D effects with the SDX-330.
EQUIPMENT CHECK
Product Reviews: Getting into the S-760; Expanding the JV-90; Taking the RD-500 out for a spin; Testing out the Super Sound Canvas.
ELECTRONIC MUSICIANSHIP
The nuts and bolts of recording a demo with the RAP-10C Roland Audio Production Card and Audio Tools software.
HANDS ON
Getting the most out of the wide range of expansion options for Roland synthesizers.
UNDERSTANDING TECHNOLOGY
Into the third dimension with Roland's SRV-330, SDE-330 and new SDX-330 dimensional effects processors.
POWER TOOLS
Hunting down the best sounds on CD-ROM with Roland's new CD-ROM catalog.
POWER SHOPPING DIRECTORY
A comprehensive listing of third-party developers and vendors.
DISCOVERIES
Quick-editing of patches on the JV-1000; Hard to get at parameters made easy on the Sound Canvas; The JD-800 and JD-990 secret handshake.
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
Send us your inquiries! This time we look at connecting the GR-1 to the outside world, disk exchange with the S-550 and the W-30, and getting into the JV-1000's Expansion Board.
SUPER SHOP
Roland's new 800 number. No easier way to order all these great products including the CD-ROM's and Sound Cards.
JURASSIC ROCK
Three legendary organists from the pre-progressive strata of the '60s are out to prove that ru- mors of their fossilization are wildly premature.
AL KOOPER
More than one slice of rock history has found Kooper on the organ bench. While he's optimistic about his new solo album and upcoming reunion concert, he shares a few choice words on the blood, sweat, and tears he's shed in the music business.
JON LORD
The color: Purple. (Deep, that is.) The original organ grinder of British metal reflects on the state of rock keyboards, reveals how he gets his cutting Clavinet sound, and mulls over his con- cept for a solo album.
FELIX CAVALIERE
Twenty years after the demise of the Young Rascals, Felix has a new album in the can, but it's a balancing act: Stick with the great live groove of the '60s, or go for technical perfection?
WORLD VIEW
Matt Cross gets in the ring with the elephants and clowns. Maria Kala- niemi puts the squeeze on the Arctic tango. Techno artists fight grunge in Seattle. Tom Coster cuts hot tracks at home. Die Krupps puts a new spin on Metallica. Plus late-breaking bulletins from all over.
AES REPORT
Toys unveiled at this year's Audio Engineering Society confab in the Big Apple.
HOT TIPS: TROUBLESHOOTING 101
Hardware, software, MIDI - what to do when bad things happen to good equipment. Craig Anderton rolls up his sleeves and offers a dozen quick ways to spot and eliminate pesky studio malfunctions.
BASICS: WHAT IS MODULATION?
Modulation is what turns a synthesizer sound from a buzzsaw whine into a musical roller coaster ride.
VINTAGE SYNTHS: THE SYNERGY
The first all-digital synthesizer to feature a built-in sequencer, the Synergy traveled a twisted road, from Bell Labs and Wendy Carlos's amazing expressive timbres to forward-looking sound development software that ran on a Kaypro?
DEPARTMENTS & COLUMNS
OTHER WINDOWS Jim Aikin finds the sinister link between punk and pap.
IN REVIEW Kate Bush, Jorden Rudess, Ray Manzarek, Astor Piazzolla.
DAVE STEWART Turn a major record producer into a personal enemy by playing these disgustingly unpleasant chords.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
ROLAND AX-1 Strap-on MIDI keyboard controller.
TIMESTREAM MC/48 MIDI-activated visual conductor.
KORG i3 Programmable auto-accompaniment synthesizer.
DR. T'S KCS/OMEGA 5.0 Sequencing software for the Atari ST/Falcon.
REGULARS
The FM CD vol 5 The full track listing, plus a cut-out booklet
News All the latest on the high-tech scene
What's MIDI? In-depth information on the finer points of MIDI
Careers First-hand advice on writing music for TV and radio
REVIEWS
Head-to-head: percussion sound modules
Yamaha MT8X
Energy Technology VKP-1 pre-amp
Retro classic: Roland TR-808
Samson mixer and amplifier
Yamaha TMX drum kit
Roland SDE & SRV-330 delay and reverb
Yamaha PSR-410 & 510 home keyboards
FEATURES
Front 242 The Belgian veterans of electro-noise have a new attitude.
Retro feature How to enjoy classic sounds without paying a fortune
Moby Get frantic with Richard Hall's uncompromising dance energy
EQ tutorial A lesson in the subtle art of equalisation
DESKTOP MUSIC
DTM news The latest desktop music developments
Head-to-head: DTM bundles Yamaha's Hello! Music! and Korg's Audio Gallery come to blows
ST, TT, Falcon: Notator Logic Emagic's latest sequencing software reviewed and rated
Falcon: digital recording & editing Audio Master and DigiTape 2.2: two new digital editors on trial
Amiga: make sounds with MED How to create sounds with licenceware tracker MED
THE BLUE NOTES
Interface Your questions answered
SY85 interface special How to load samples and change banks on the SY85
Jargon buster Find out what deciBels are all about
Letters Speak your mind, before you lose it
Demos See what other FM readers are up to....
Exposure and buy it, or advertise your own recordings for nowt
Product locator Find that review in that back issue
Buyers' guide Christmas shopping for DTM and MIDI
Classifieds Great deals from top traders
Reader ads Great deals from private traders
Opinion The true nature of making music with modern technology
REVIEWS
Alesis Monitor One by Paul White
Digital Performer by Mike Collins
Studio Electronics SE1 Analogue Synthesizer by Nick Magnus
Widgets
Aiwa XD-S1100 DAT recorder
Penny & Giles fader upgrades
AKG microphone shock-mount kit
Big Noise MaxPak PC Sequencing System by Steven Helstrip
Tascam PE40 Parametric Equaliser by Paul White
AKG C3000 Microphone by Paul White
ART FXR Multi-Effects by Paul White
Allen & Heath GS3V Automated Mixer by Paul White
DAL CardD PC Hard Disk Recorder By Brian Heywood
The Other Two by Nigel Humberstone
Coldcut by Wilf Smarties
Necroscope: Surviving Live by Nigel Humberstone
Will Mowat: Soul II Soul by Richard Buskin
Toyah Wilcox by Paul White
Buying Used Gear by Paul White
EMS VCS3 Retrospective by Ian Boddy
SOUND WORKSHOPS
Creating Analogue Sounds On Digital Synths by Wick Magnus
Yamaha QY10 Programming Clinic by Craig Anderton
Power Vocoding On The Boss SE50 & SE70 by Paul White
Aural Hygiene: Part 2 by Gordon Reid
Sequencing With The Kawai K1 by Mike Simmons
Regulars
Crosstalk
More of your problems solved by our experts.
Shape Of Things To Come
The latest breaking hi-tech music recording news.
Sound Bites
Handy hints and tips to get more out of your gear.
Sample Shop
Wilf Smarties gives a new batch of CDs a spin.
Demo Doctor
John Harris dissects and diagnoses your demos.
Production Lines
Rock producer Tony Platt worries about the impact of reissues and new formats on the music industry.
COMPUTER NOTES
PC NOTES by Brian Heywood
APPLE NOTES by Kendall Wrightson
ATARI NOTES by Martin Russ
AMIGA NOTES by Paul Austin
THE NEXT BIG THING
Imagine Rodney Dangerfield: "Big? Oh, it's big, I tell ya." It is physical mod- eling, a technology that redefines fundamental concepts of performance and sound design. It will change the way you play and the way your music sounds sooner than you think. The revolution starts here.
WORLD VIEW
Roxette pulls the plug on drum machines. Tom Oberheim tries a new twist on modular synthesis. Patrice Rushen shops a demo. Plus news you can use.
LOUNGE LIZARDS
L.A. lounge pianists reveal how to survive a lifetime behind the tip jar.
READERS POLL
Vote for the top players and products of '93!
LEON THEREMIN, 1896-1993
The death of this electronic music pioneer followed, by one day, the broadcast premiere of a film based on his astonishing life. Keyboard reviews Theremin's contributions and previews The Electronic Odyssey of Leon Theremin.
PRIVATE LESSON: CHICK COREA
A legendary improviser explores the concept of change, swears off synths, throws out the rule- book, and blows through "Someday My Prince Will Come."
HOT TIPS: ROLAND SOUND CANVAS Sound advice on how to move beyond playback and delve into the hidden MIDI features of Roland's popular synth module.
KEYBOARD INDEX: 1993
A complete catalog of last year's articles, interviews, and product reviews.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
DIGITAL PIANO MODULES E-mu Proformance, Kurzweil MicroPiano, & Roland P-55.
WEYER/SMITH LABS Upgrades for synths.
OSC DECK II- THE AUDIO CLINIC Hard disk audio recording & editing software for the Mac.
ART FXR ELITE Multi-effects processor.
DEPARTMENTS & COLUMNS
GUEST EDITORIAL It's time for universal patch compatibility!
IN REVIEW Tom Waits, William S. Burroughs, Cabaret Voltaire.
REEL WORLD NOTEBOOK Jeff Rona battles the studio brass.
INSIDE THE MUSIC Dave Stewart takes a dive.
REVIEWS
Roland JV50 & JV90 Synthesizers by David Crombie
dbx 120XP Boom Box by Paul White
Yamaha TG300 Sound Module by Martin Russ
Peavey DPM C8 Master Keyboard by Derek Johnson
GEM S2R Synth Module by Mike Simmons
Roland PC Audio Producer by Brian Heywood
MOTU MIDI Express PC Interface by Steven Helstrip
BCK Lite Show MIDI Light Controller By Paul White
Features
NAMM Show Report by Paul White
Tom Oberheim by Paul White
Cabaret Voltaire by Mark J. Prendergast
100 Issues Of SOS by Dave Crombie
U2 & Robbie Adams by Paul Tingen
Inside Headphones by Paul White
Sequential Pro-One Synth Retrospective by Paul Ward
SOUND WORKSHOPS
Creating Analogue Sounds On Digital Synths by Nick Magnus
Pragmatic Studio Acoustics by Paul White
Living With Digital Tape by Craig Anderton
Sound Foundation: Analogue Synthesis by Paul White
Tape Machine Care by Paul White
Soldering Made Easy by Paul White
Regular
Crosstalk More of your problems solved by our experts.
Shape Of Things To Come Up to the minute news from the hi-tech music scene.
Sample Shop Wilf Smarties passes judgement on a new batch of sample CDs.
Production Lines M People producer Mike Pickering considers the role of the modrn day record producer.
COMPUTER NOTES
ATARI NOTES by Vic Lennard
PC NOTES by Brian Heywood
APPLE NOTES by Martin Russ
AMIGA NOTES by Paul Austin
KEITH EMERSON'S MOMENT OF TRUTH
On the cusp of an ELP revival, the king of rock keyboards confronts arm disability, surgery, and the possibility of never being able to play again.
HANDS ON FIRE
A noted hand surgeon shows how to get a grip on carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, and other occupational hazards of keyboard performance.
WORLD VIEW
Alan Parsons pulls the plug on the Project. Psychic Lab plugs in your brain. Cabaret Voltaire blasts back with three new albums. A keyboard museum opens in Austria. Plus news from far and wide.
HOT TIPS: OPCODE'S OMS
How to clear up problems, shortcut applications, and unleash the full power of Opcode's Open Music System.
SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE: THE VIEW FROM THE STAGE Cheryl Hardwick and Leon Pendarvis trade fours as co-keyboardists with the hottest horn band on late-night TV.
FRANK ZAPPA REMEMBERED
Strange times, brilliant music: Five former sidemen recall their years behind the keys with the already legendary Frank Zappa.
MONSTER MODAL LICKS
Amaze friends and fans alike with these zippy one- and two-hand licks. More amazing still: They're easier to play than you think.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
BLUE RIBBON SOUNDWORKS SUPERJAM! Song accompaniment software for IBM.
STUDIO ELECTRONICS SE-1 Rack-mount mono synth module.
dbx SIGNAL PROCESSORS 296 Spectral Enhancer & 120XP Subharmonic Synth.
FOREFRONT TECHNOLOGY PATCH COMMANDER MIDI remote controller.
DIGIDESIGN DINR Noise reduction software for the Mac.
NIGHTINGALE 1.3 DEPARTMENTS Score printing software for the Mac.
DEPARTMENTS & COLUMNS
LETTERS
CREATIVE OPTIONS Connor Freff Cochran relives an epiphany.
IN REVIEW The Orb, Professor Longhair, Kit Watkins, Ellis Marsalis.
REEL WORLD NOTEBOOK Jeff Rona explores synth applications in Dolby Surround.
INSIDE THE MUSIC Dave Stewart unveils Scotland's home organ king.
REVIEWS
LA Audio 4G Quad Gate by Paul White
Casio CTK-650 Keyboard by Julian Colbeck
Zoom 9050 Effects Processor by Paul White
Hands On Starlite MIDI Lighting Controller by Martin Russ
Steinberg Time Bandit Apple Mac Software by Paul White
Dynacord DLS223 Rotary Speaker Simulator by Nick Magnus
Yamaha GW10 Effects Pedal System by Paul White
Oktava MK219 Microphone by Paul White
Sony HRMP5 Studio Multi-effects by Paul White
Kurzweil MicroPiano by Derek Johnson
Soundcraft Spirit Studio LC Mixer by Paul White
Sunrise PC Drummer by Brian Heywood
Digidesign DINR Noise Reduction by Paul White
Widgets CIS GT-Pro Studio Workstation • The Tube Amp Book
Features
Jane Siberry by Mark Prendergast
Soundcraft's Going Live! Live Sound Weekends by Mike Lethby
Orbital by Nigel Humberstone
Chris Rea & Stuart Epps by Mark Cunningham
John Dyson by Paul White
Backup Media by Martin Russ
Drum Kit Miking by Paul White
Creating Analogue Sounds an Digital Synths by Nick Magnus
Tempo Track Tweaks by Craig Anderton
Practical Studio Wiring by Paul White
Build Your Own Dummy Load by Paul White
Computer Sequencing Tips by Paul White
Using Your Hi-fi In The Studio by Paul White
Regulars
Crosstalk More of your problems solved by our experts.
Shape Of Things To Come Up to the minute news from the hi-tech music scene.
Sample Shop Wilf Smarties passes judgement on a new batch of sample CDs.
Production Lines Maverick producer Pascal Gabriel talks about product support - or the lack of it...
COMPUTER NOTES
ATARI NOTES by Vic Lennard
APPLE NOTES by Martin Russ
PC NOTES by Brian Heywood
AMIGA NOTES by Paul Austin
NAMM '94: NEW GEAR, NO FEAR
And bad beer. Keyboard weathers aftershocks in Anaheim to report on the latest synths, software, MIDI controllers, digital and acoustic pianos, and other relevant noisemakers. Plus celebrity fashion bulletins.
WORLD VIEW
Internet insurgents challenge the record industry. Mike Pinder finds life after the Moody Blues. Brazilian jazz pianist Eliane Elias goes back to classical. And the latest on Keith Emerson's arm surgery.
SPECIAL REPORT: SAMPLING NATION
Pocative reflections from the front lines of the technological frontier.
HIP-HOP
Blunt talk from Del the Funkyhomosapien, Angel C., Dres of Black Sheep, and Erick Sermon on greedy artists, the virtues of low-tech, and the tech- nique of freak.
TECHNO
The sound sculptors of Orbital, Vapourspace, Ultramarine, the Orb, and Aphex Twin trade thoughts on sampling in the postmodern world.
CONTEMPORARY CLASSICAL
Paul Dresher and Carl Stone ride the sampling wave across the high ground of experimental composition.
HOT HAMMOND LICKS
Get the fonk back with these riffs, licks, and hits, guar- anteed to meet all standards for B-3 bluesification and jazzosity.
VINTAGE SYNTHS: ROLAND BEAT BOXES Jam down Memory Lane with this loving look at three epochal drum machines: Roland's CR- 78, TR-808, and TR-909.
DEPARTMENTS & COLUMNS
CREATIVE OPTIONS Connor Freff Cochran considers rules for creativity.
IN REVIEW ABWH, Marillion, FMob, Herbie Hancock.
QUESTIONS The evolving Ober-Moog, and affordable K5 sounds.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
SOUNDS
East-West Dance/Industrial II, Best Service's Barbara Dennerlein B-3 samples, Hollywood Edge's L.A. Riot, Vol. 1, and more.
MIROSLAV VITOUS SYMPHONIC ORCHESTRA SAMPLES CD-ROM library.
ROLAND JV-1000 Synthesizer/sequencer workstation.
RECORDING SYNTHS
There's more involved than just plugging in and punching up presets. From broad concepts to specifics on such issues as compression and programming, here's the advice you need to add sizzle to your synth tracks.
WORLD VIEW
Bill Laswell defends cultural plundering. Danilo Pérez bridges Latin and jazz. Rev. Billy C. Wirtz preaches the ten commandments of bar gig sur- vival. And surprise! - keyboards prove helpful in music education.
KEYBOARD POLL RESULTS
Meet the best players and products of '93.
SON OF NAMM
Our correspondent wraps up his annual Anaheim jaunt with a look at new digital and analog recorders, rhythm machines, mixers, MIDI routers, and assorted odds and ends.
DEMONIC DIMINISHED LICKS
Dig into Doc's dish of daredevil dashes through devilish diminished chords.
TALK: INSIDE YES (AGAIN)
Trevor Rabin mixes keys and strings, Tony Kaye trades in his synth for a B-3, Rick Wakeman sits out, and the 90125 band battles hard disk recording in the latest incarnation of Yes.
HOT TIPS: E-MU PROCUSSION
How to build your own sound stacks, juice up snare and tom samples through Kit Modulation, and otherwise unleash the power of Procussion.
COPYRIGHT, FAIR USE, & THE LAW Negativland's provocative look at the law shows how recent Supreme Court rulings may affect how you use samples in your music.
DEPARTMENTS & COLUMNS
CREATIVE OPTIONS Connor Freff Cochran turns it down.
IN REVIEW John Cale, Pat Leonard, T-Dream.
REEL WORLD NOTEBOOK Jeff Rona enlists Mark Isham for Homicide.
INSIDE THE MUSIC Dave Stewart sails from C to C.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
SOUNDS Megabass Remix! drum loops, Q Up Arts drum sound reverb trails, Zero-G Technotrance
YAMAHA VL1 Virtual acoustic synthesizer.
MACKIE 8-BUS Recording console.
YAMAHA P-500 Digital piano/master keyboard.
ALESIS QUADRASYNTH Synthesizer.
MULTIMEDIA MANIA
Just when you thought you had sampling and sequencing down, multimedia offers a whole new set of challenges to the MIDI-, computer-, and digital- audio-literate musician. How can you take advantage of this brave new world of creative opportunity?
GET A JOB
A legend in these cyber times, The Fat Man offers insider advice on how to break into the music side of multimedia. Plus further insights into career development in video games, CD-ROMs, and business presentations from the folks at Sega and Electronic Arts.
MIDI & MEGA-MEDIA
Front-line reports from Broadway to Vegas document how MIDI controls the world of big-budget sights, sounds, and special effects.
MULTIMEDIA VIDEO
An introduction to desktop video on the Macintosh.
MULTIMEDIA AUDIO
Tips on tools and answers to basic questions for MIDI-literate mu- sicians ready to concoct sounds and music for multimedia projects on the PC.
WORLD VIEW
Joey De Francesco stands by the B-3. Drums and synths connect with the Brand New Heavies. Sneakers squeak big-time at Omnimax. And Rev. Wirtz survives a frat gig.
HOT TIPS: CAKEWALK PROFESSIONAL
Shortcuts and power applications for the popular PC/Windows sequencer, from creating lead sheets with correct transpositions for band instruments to simulating chorus effects, and lots more.
MUSIK MESSE '94
Check out the new software, modules, and hard disk recorders at the latest gathering of the MI tribe at Frankfurt. But leave your Strat at home.
DAVID ROSENTHAL: UNREPENTANT ROCKER
Voted Best Hired Gun in the latest Readers Poll, Rosenthal insists that business smarts, hard work, and attitude can insure your right to rock, and explains how he keeps Vision from crashing onstage with Billy Joel.
VAN CLIBURN: THE LAST ROMANTIC
America's most celebrated pianist tells why he's ending his long sabbatical from the stage, and ponders the possibility of getting into video.
DEPARTMENTS & COLUMNS
CREATIVE OPTIONS Connor Freff Cochran confronts the speed demon.
GUEST EDITORIAL Three days in the multimedia tar pits.
IN REVIEW Ryuichi Sakamoto, Chick Corea, Messiah.
QUESTIONS Alchemy's comeback, Minimoog aches and pains, and that syncing feeling when Performer meets Studio 5.
REEL WORLD NOTEBOOK Jeff Rona on breaking into the movie biz.
INSIDE THE MUSIC Dave Stewart rides a chordal Möbius strip.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
SOUNDS Peter Erskine's drums, Yamaha TG500 cards, a Kurzweil K2000 CD-ROM, and B-3 sounds for the Ensoniq EPS- 16 Plus/ASR-10.
KORG 05R/W & YAMAHA TG300 General MIDI modules.
LEXICON VORTEX Audio morphing processor.
JUPITER SYSTEMS MDT Dynamics processing software plug-in for Sound Designer II.
WAVES Q10 EQ software plug-in for Sound Designer II.
HAMMOND SUZUKI XB-3 Digital organ w/ Leslie.
REVIEWS
Yamaha VL1 Synthesizer by Martin Russ
Waldorf Wave Synthesizer by David Crombie
Oktava 01.2 Microphone by Paul White
Soundcraft Rac Pac Mixer by Paul White
Aphex 106 EasyRider by David Mellor
Novation BassStation Synth by Julian Colbeck
Roland SDX-330 Dimensional Expander by Dave Lockwood
Zoom 9002 Guitar Processor by Paul White
Alesis Al-1 ADAT Interface by Paul White
Widgets
Peter Gabriel Xplora CDROM
Analogic Progate Atari Hard Drive
Features
Malcolm Toft by Paul White
The Grid by Nigel Humberstone
Stephen Street: Producer by Sue Sillitoe
Desktop Video on PC by Panicos Georghiades
Exploring Analogue: Part 3 by Steve Howell
Hard Disk Recording with Deck & Sound Designer by David Mellor
Using Effects with Keyboards by Paul White
Perfect Piano Loops by Craig Anderton
Using Windows MIDI Mapper with Yamaha QY10 by Martin Scott
Cassette Maintenance by Paul White
Sync Explained by Paul White
Production Lines Best known for his work with Monty Python, producer Andre Jacquemin extolls the virtues of the integrated studio.
ATARI NOTES
APPLE NOTES
PC NOTES
AMIGA NOTES
REVIEWS
Marantz PMD720 Cassette Multitracker by Derek Johnson
Yamaha QY300 Sequencer by Martin Russ
Quasimidi Quasar Synth by Paul Ward
MediaBlitz PC Multimedi Authoring Software by Tim Frost
Tascam M-2600 Mixer by Paul White
Waldorf EMES Blue Monitors by Paul White
Emu Systems UltraProteus Synthesizer Module by Julian Colbeck
Yamaha MT120S 4-track Cassette Recorder by Shirley Gray
Widgets Cubase Power User's Guide
Power Master hard drives
Feature
Trevor Horn by Richard Buskin
Future Sound Of London by Nigel Humberstone
Paul Ward by Paul White
SOUND WORKSHOPS
Ground Control of Major Hum by Paul White
Regulars
Crosstalk More of your problems solved by our experts.
Shape Of Things To Come Up-to-the-minute news from the hi-tech music and recording scenes.
Sample Shop Wilf Smarties passes judgement on a new batch of sample CDs and CD-ROMs.
Production Lines The most successful record producer in the world. Mike Stock, explains why he's all for supporting the innovative spirit of modern dance music.
ATARI NOTES
PC NOTES
APPLE NOTES
AMIGA NOTES
FEATURES
Massive Attack. The Bristol boys and their gert lush album
Hard-disk recording. Time to access the facts on fast access times
Get more from your synth. Hook up to a sequencer and away you go
Back to basics. Effects, and what you can do with them
REVIEWS
Lexicon Vortex
Pioneer CDJ-500
ART CS2 compressor.29
Korg M1 soundcards and disks
Retro review: PPG Wave
Head-to-head: tone modules.
Sample CDs
DESKTOP MUSIC
DTM news
MusicStation for PC. The latest Steinberg interactive wonder
Aural Illusion. The splice of sampling life for your Amiga
G-Vox. Guitar tuition and MIDI composition for Mac
MIDIGrid Pro. An unusual approach to sequencing on your ST
REVIEWS
Yamaha QY8 Music Sequencer by Martin Russ
Korg G4 Rotary Speaker Simulator by Gordon Reid
Behringer Edison Stereo Image Enhancer by Paul White
Phonic M1642 Mixer by Shirley Gray
Oberheim OBMX Analogue MIDI Module by David Crombie
Samick KKIL Master Keyboard by Derek Johnson
Alesis X2 Studio Mixing Console by Paul White
Roland SC88 Super Sound Canvas by Derek Johnson
Kenton Pro 4 Multi-channel MIDI-CV Interface by Derek Johnson
Features
Pink Floyd Live by Mike Lethby
Danny Chang: Cartoon Music by Paul White
Producer: Nigel Lowis by Sue Sillitoe
Living with Cubase Audio on the Falcon by Peter Buick
Atari Falcon: the Case for the Defence by Paul Wiffen
Daniel Lanois by Paul Tingen
Korg PolySix Synthesizer Retrospective by Nick Magnus
SOUND WORKSHOPS
Recording Live Jazz by Per Villez
Using Amps as Effects by Paul White
Buying Vintage Synths by Gordon Reid
Production Lines Classical music producer Joanna Leach explains her role in this quality audio arena.
Regulars
Crosstalk More of your problems solved by our expert.
Shape Of Things To Come Up-to-the-minute news from the hi-tech music and recording scenes.
Sample Shop Wilf Smarties passes judgement on a new batch of sample CDs and CD-ROMs.
ATARI NOTES
PC NOTES
APPLE NOTES
AMIGA NOTES
FEATURES
Orang. The ex-Talk Talkers talk technology
Flood. speaks out about Depeche, NIN, and U2
Get more from your synth. LA Synthesis: what it is and how it works
Back to basics. Start sequencing - a beginners' guide
REVIEWS
Four-track head-to-head
Soundcraft Spirit Folio Lite
Tascam M-2600
Yamaha RY20
Retro review: Juno 2
Sample CDs
DESKTOP MUSIC
DTM news
Gravis UltraSound Max Sample and playback card for PC
Guitar MIDI files. A set to turn your sound module into a guitar
Steinberg ReCycle! Mac software to match samples and tempos
Alesis Quadraverb 2 by Paul White
Roland $760 Expansion Options by Paul Wiffen
MOTU Performer 5.0 Macintosh Sequencer by Mike Collins
Oktava MK011 Microphone by Paul White
Yamaha RY20 Rhythm Programmer by Paul Ward
Emu EIIIX Updates by Mike Barnes
Akai MPC3000 MIDI Production Centre by David Mellor
Dynacord DRP5 Reverb by Nick Magnus
Widgets
Cimple Solutions Atari MIDI output expander.
K&K active cables
Features
The Museum Of Synthesizer Technology by Julian Colbeck & Martin Russ
Robert Moog by Julian Colbeck
Fluke by Nigel Humberstone
Mackie Designs Profile by Paul White
Jon Anderson In The Studio by Mike Lethby
Hard Disk Recording Basics by Paul White
Budget PC Sequencing by Steven Helstrip
Buying A Multi-Effects Unit by Craig Anderton
Acoustic Piano Miking by Paul White
Abusive Behaviour: Getting The Most Out Of Your Gear by Paul Ward
Impedance Matters by Paul White
Regulars
Crosstalk More of your problems solved by our experts.
Shape Of Things To Come Up-to-the-minute news from the hi-tech music and recording scenes.
Sample Shop Wilf Smarties passes judgement on a new batch of sample CDs and CD-ROMs.
Production Lines Producer John Leckie explains why those people who work in the studio industry should be grateful for the opportunity.
ATARI NOTES
APPLE NOTES
PC NOTES
AMIGA NOTES
SONGWRITING: STATE OF THE ART
Keyboard examines the magic of composition through the words of three influential songwriters.
TORI AMOS: THE VAMPIRE & THE NIGHTINGALE
A journey into the heart of creativity with one of pop music's most provocative performer/composers.
DIANE WARREN: THE QUEEN OF CHARTS
Hollywood's hottest hitmaker explains her approach to writing songs that sell and dealing with the pressures of success.
BARRY MANN: BEYOND THE BRILL BUILDING
The Mann who made a habit of writing classic tunes explains why synths and sequencers are essential tools for the modern composer.
SURVIVAL SKILLS
A respected songwriting consultant reveals how to protect, publish, and profit from your original material.
WORLD VIEW
Harold Rhodes brings back the electric piano (but loses his name). Booker T. Jones makes a surprising self-discovery. Aladdin meets VR. And watch out, guitarists: Here comes Roadpig!
NAMM REPORT
The National Association of Music Merchants has revived its summer fest with a vengeance. Here's the lowdown on new synths, recording gear, and other items unveiled at Nashville last July.
JUST INTONATION: NEW VISTAS IN SYNTH TUNING
Getting tired of those same old thirds? This map to your synth's tuning tables will help you explore a new world of sound through perfect intervals.
HOT TIPS: PEAVEY DPM 4
From Link mode shortcuts to filter tricks for killer analog sounds, here's how to get maximum firepower from the latest in the DPM line of synths.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
SOUNDSCAPE SSHDR1 Digital audio recorder for the PC.
MARK OF THE UNICORN FREESTYLE Sequencer/notation software for the Mac.
WAVEBOY VODER Effects algorithm for Ensoniq EPS-16 Plus & ASR-10.
VOCE ELECTRIC PIANO Sound module.
RAMTEK D1200 & CDR-270 Rack-mount fixed hard disk, CD-ROM, & removable media drives.
ANALOGUE SYSTEMS FB3 FILTER BANK Rack-mount VCF module.
SOUNDS Ilio Entertainments Synclavier Strings, InVision Interactive Mellotron Archives, Pro-Rec Ultimate CD, & more.
DEPARTMENTS & COLUMNS
IN REVIEW Laurie Anderson/Brian Eno, Orbital, Marcus Roberts, Beaver & Krause.
INSIDE THE MUSIC Dave Stewart is saved by My Own Band.
MUSICMEDIA Bob Safir demystifies compression for multimedia.
REEL WORLD NOTEBOOK Jeff Rona chips in on The Lion King.
FEATURES
Robert Fripp. Meet the man who's worked with them all
Laurent Garnier Outspoken French techno talk.
Get Get more from your synth LA (synthesis) story - part two
Tape sync. Tips to avoid that syncing feeling
Back to basics computers Enter the world of silicon music-making
REVIEWS
Effects head-to head.
Peavey Valvex
Alesis S4
Korg Wavedrum
Waldorf Microwave II
Microphone round-up
Retro review: Roland Pad-8
Sample CDs
DESKTOP MUSIC
DTM news
MIDISCAN Translate printed music scores into PC MIDI files
Opcode Claire Ear-training and sight-singing package for the Mac
Koan Plus Auto-ambient music for the PC
Breakthru Score Music printing software for the ST
REVIEWS
Preview: Emu ESI32 Sampler & Classic Keys by Derek Johnson
Ensoniq KT76 Workstation by Julian Colbeck
Spirit Folio Lite Mixer by Paul White
Korg Wavedrum by Julian Colbeck
Digitech TSR12 Multi-Effects by Derek Johnson
Alesis $4 Quadrasynth Module by David Crombie
CAD88 & 89 Microphones by Paul White
Behringer Combinator by Paul White
Yamaha FX770 Multi-Effects by Paul White
SPL Optimizer by Dave Lockwood
Fostex RD8 Digital 8-track by David Mellor
Widgets
Missing Link MIDI-to-CV Convertor
Intrinsic Technology Atari MIDI Port Expanaer
Features
Producer: Mitchell Froom by Paul Tingen
Surfing The Internet by Stephen Bennett
808 State by Matt Bell
Todd Rundgren by Jimmy Phillips
Hard Disk Recording: Part 2 by David Mellor
Multimedia On The Atari Falcon by Andrew Wright
Computer notes
Atari Notes
PC Notes
Apple Notes
Amiga Notes
3D Mixing Techniques by Paul White
Making The Most Of Rotary Speaker Simulators by Nick Magnus
Digidesign's SampleCell II & Sound Designer II In Action by David Mellor
Regulars
Crosstalk More of your problems solved by our experts.
Shape Of Things To Come Derek Johnson brings you news from the leading edge of the hi-tech music and recording scenes.
Sample Shop Wilf Smarties passes judgement on a new batch of sample CDs and CD-ROMs.
Production Lines
Producer/Artist turned A&R man Steve Ferrera explains why newly-formed Echo Records will be led by the artists and not the money men.
SPECIAL ISSUE: MUSIC SOFTWARE BUYER'S GUIDE From detailed charts to quick-'n'-easy capsule analyses, here's the ultimate buyer's guide for the computer-based musician.
SEQUENCERS
Thumbnail sketches and feature-by-feature comparisons of more than two dozen sequencing programs.
NOTATION SOFTWARE
Plenty of programs for songwriters, music publishers, and anybody else who would like to see and print what they play.
DIGITAL AUDIO RECORDING SOFTWARE
From plug-in EQ to turn-key multitrack recorders - if you need more than a soundcard, this is your roadmap into the digital audio jungle.
EDITOR/LIBRARIANS
An exhaustive catalog of editor/librarian software, both universal and instrument-specific, broken down by instrument to help you instantly find what you need.
MISCELLANEOUS SOFTWARE
What's left? You'll find it in this pile of programs for audio analysis and capture, film and video scoring, and interactive improvisation and algorithmic composition. Also included: MIDI programming languages and utilities, and other handy items.
EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES
Grab that magnifying glass: Here's our teeny-type catalog of music education software and CD-ROMs.
MANUFACTURER LIST
Addresses and contact numbers for all sources of music software listed in this issue. (Keep the magnifying glass handy.)
WORLD VIEW
John Paul Jones meets Diamanda Galás. Meat Loaf orders one keyboardist to go. David Bryan rocks Steinway. Peter Namlook breaks records in CD production. And Keyboard remembers Nicky Hopkins.
DEPARTMENTS & COLUMNS
CREATIVE OPTIONS Connor Freff Cochran finds infinity in his desk.
IN REVIEW Jan Hammer, Dream Theater, Tom Coster, Single Gun Theory.
INSIDE THE MUSIC Dave Stewart peers beyond C minor.
MUSICMEDIA Bob Safir explains scoring to spec.
REEL WORLD NOTEBOOK Jeff Rona meets the sample police.
Get more from your synth The secrets of vector synthesis
Back to basics - computers Computer music with the Amiga
REVIEWS
Roland Super JV-1080
Yamaha MU5
Korg X5
Boss RV-70
E-mu Classic Keys
Solton MS-50
Studiomaster Vision
DAT round-up
Retro review: Korg DW8000
Sample CDs
PROFILES
Bomb The Bass The godfathers of dance?
David Sylvian The godfather of ambient?
Tangerine Dream The godfathers of rock?
Yello The godfathers of techno?
DESKTOP MUSIC
DTM news
Soundscape PC soundcard with '100% Ensoniq sounds'
Cubase Score v2 Latest version of the seminal sequencer for the ST
Freestyle Auto-composition software for the Mac
20 INSTRUMENTS THAT SHOOK THE WORLD If you were gigging back in the '70s, you'll remember each of the landmark axes in our retrospective and how they af- fected your role as a keyboard player. If you're newer to the game, you'll learn something about your roots in this col- lection of images and recollections. Plus, advice from Thomas Dolby, Chick Corea, Tom Coster, and Jeff Lorber on how to get the most from classic gear.
12 WHO COUNT: JAN HAMMER
As the player who did the most to bridge piano chops and synth phrasing, Hammer stands at the top of our list of a dozen keyboardists who have changed the way you play. Yet even this innovator admits he's susceptible to commer- cial pressure.
DICK HYMAN: A JAZZ PIANO PANORAMA
Join the most versatile pianist in jazz on a swing through the ages, from the jaunty stride of Jelly Roll Morton to the ruminations of Bill Evans, all to the tune of "Londonderry Air." Six pages of music!
HOT TIPS: TASCAM DA-88
From simulating analog to deciphering enigmatic error readings, these 15 tips from a panel of industry pros will help you squeeze more power from this popular digital multitrack recorder.
TAX STRATEGIES FOR MUSICIANS
The IRS's rules for what you can deduct are tighter than ever, but there are still ways to save on your expenses. So don't spend another dime before checking out this tax sur- vival guide.
LETTERS
Tori Amos & dead white guys.
WORLD VIEW
A MIDI file flap triggers a lawsuit against CompuServe. David Sylvian reunites with Robert Fripp. Eric Reed confronts life after Wynton. And Chuck Leavell remembers dates with the Stones, Clapton, and other rock icons.
INTERFACE
What's new in the stores, what's on the horizon. Plus an American R&D innovator switches corporate hats, and Yamaha's cappuccino connection.
DEPARTMENT & COLUMNS
IN REVIEW Thomas Dolby, Bud Powell, Yello.
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING Craig Anderton outlines the pros and cons of today's options in digital recording technology.
REEL WORLD NOTEBOOK Jeff Rona scores the life of a remarkable artist, complete with surprise ending,
MUSICMEDIA Bob Safir offers a strategy for copyright control.
QUESTIONS Humanized HR-16 patterns, M1 presets, and the Mr. Mister mystery.
INSIDE THE MUSIC Dave Stewart takes a hint from the Musicians' Union.
CREATIVE OPTIONS Connor Freff Cochran flips the fame coin.
KEYBAORD REPORTS
SOUNDS MasterBits Techno Trax, Big Fish Analog Grooves, AMG Producer Series Remix! II, McIntosh & Charles Black II Black, E-Lab X- Static Goldmine 2, Jason Miles Psychic Horns, & Sly Dunbar Reggae DrumSplash.
YAMAHA PROMIX 01 MIDI-controlled digital mixer.
PEAVEY SPECTRUM Rack-mount filter module.
TAP NIGHTINGALE NOTESCAN Sheet music scanning utility for Nightingale & MusicPrinter Plus.
FEATURES
Readership survey Only in 10,000 copies. Are you a lucky one?
Get more from your synth Digging deeper inside wave sequencing
Back to basics - computers. The world's bestselling type of computer, the PC, gets the basic treatment
PROFILES
LFO After a long break, the boys oscillate again
Autechre Redefining electronics the Manchester way
Sabres Of Paradise Experimental, excellent and totally exclusive
Mike Oldfield From Tubular Bells to CD-ROM
REVIEWS
Yamaha ProMix 01
Roland TD-5
Yamaha W5
Akai MPC3000
Yamaha VL1-m
Doepfer MAQ16/3
Home keyboard head-to-head
Tascam 488 MKII
Sample CDs
DESKTOP MUSIC
DTM news
Emagic Logic Audio v2.0 Sequencing and hard-disk recording for the Mac
Samplitude Budget hard-disk recording for the PC
Sibelius 7 v2.5 Score writing for the Archimedes
FEATURES
Music on the Internet. Part one of a major new series that cuts through the Internet hype to give you the facts. Is this the music format of the future?
Back to basics - computers. Just how suitable is the Apple Macintosh for making music?
PROFILES
Primal Scream. How the Screamers transferred their unique sound to the open road
Nitzer Ebb. Mute's wanderers return with a new look and a new sound
REVIEWS
E-mu ESI-32
Soundcraft Powerstation
Master keyboard match
Yamaha VL-7
Kawai Datacat
E-mu Emulator IV
Four-tracker head-to-head
Sunihama Jamma
Retro review: Yamaha CS-80
Sample CDs.....
DESKTOP MUSIC
DTM news
Hi-Soft Aura 12-bit sampler for the Amiga
Daughterboards match. Add-ons for PC Soundblaster cards
Dr T's KCS 5.0 The latest sequencer prescription for the ST
Motu Performer 5 The latest sequencer prescription for the Mac
REVIEWS
ART MR1 Digital Reverb by Paul White
Viscount RD800 Data Filer by Derek Johnson
Kurzweil K2000 Upgrade by Paul Ward
Quasimidi Technox by Paul Ward
Voyetra MIDI Orchestrator Plus by Brian Heywood
Vestax HDR6 Hard Disk Recorder by Paul Wiffen
Tascam DA30 MKII DAT by Paul White
Audio Technica Midnight Blues Microphones by Paul White
Alesis Midiverb 4 by Paul White
Zoom 1202 Multi Effects by Paul White
Korg AX30G Guitar Effects by Paul White
Features
Gigging In Europe
With In The Nursery by Nigel Humberstone
Buying A PC For Music Part 1: by Paul Nagle
Mike Oldfield by Paul White
Inside Stories: EMI Music Publishing by David Bibbey
Graham Blyth: How I Design Mixers by Paul White
Producer: Rupert Hine by Paul Tingen
Multimedia Authoring On The PC by Panicos Georghiades
Atari MIDI Port Expanders by Martin Russ
EDP Wasp Synth Retrospective by Chris Carter
Atari Notes
PC Notes
Apple Notes
Amiga Notes
SOUNDWORKSHOPS
Cheap Tricks In The Studio by Paul White
Mastering On ADAT by Paul White
Exciters Explained by Paul White
Sampling Fun by Paul Ward
Sneaky Sequencing Tips by Paul White
Regulars
Crosstalk Ware of your problems solved by our experts.
Shape Of Things To Come Derek Johnson brings you news from the leading edge of the hi-tech music and recording scenes.
Sample Shop Smarties passes judgement on a new batch of Sample CDs and CD-ROMs.
Production Lines Producer Douglas Floyd-Douglass reveals a new project which should give easier access to non- mainstream music.
Features
SOUNDS ROUND-UP
Orchestra hits! Guitar squeals! Car crashes! You can find prac- tically every sound you want on the sample market. Keyboard checks out more than 25 of the top packages and reports on which give you the bang your buck deserves.
SAFE SAMPLING: LICENSES & THE LAW Odds are that your favorite samples are safe, but what sounds like an innocent lick on that CD collection could be an over- ture to a long legal nightmare. This common-sense guide will help you steer clear of copyright catastrophe.
21 LICKS: A USER'S MANUAL
When it's time to solo, how do you jump-start some fresh ideas? Try these incendiary licks, crafted for use with a variety of sus- pended chords and inversions in a wide range of styles, including country, jazz, and rock.
CROSS-PLATFORM SAMPLE COMPATIBILITY
With more sampler manufacturers opening their in- struments up to sounds designed for alternate formats, the era of universal patch compatibility may be near. But our tests suggest that you may not want to start holding your breath quite yet.
12 WHO COUNT: BOB MOOG
The mastermind behind performance-oriented synthesis still doesn't consider himself a musician, yet his recol- lections and reflections recall a career that redefined the word "keyboardist" and permanently transformed the technology of music.
Departments & Columns
LETTERS Atari and Amiga users dis the buyer's guide, East- West challenges Jeff Rona, and other views of "Beelzebub."
WORLD VIEW Onstage with Nine Inch Nails. On the edge of melody with Bomb The Bass. Behind the XB with Jimmy Mc- Griff. And one keyboardist's dangerous double life.
INTERFACE The latest on hard-disk and tape-based digital recording from the AES Show. A front-line report on computer innovations at COMDEX. Loads of info on new gear, software updates, and even more sounds. And Madame Volga sees new synth tech- nologies in her crystal ball.
IN REVIEW Klaus Schulze, Lords of Acid, Philippe Saisse, Tan- gerine Dream, the piano music of John Cage.
SOLO PIANO Fred Hersch points the way toward developing an original interpretive style with a fresh approach to "Body and Soul."
OTHER WINDOWS Jim Aikin tunes into the dark side of artistic self- image, and finds a way to brighten the picture.
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING Craig Anderton referees the audio wars and debunks five myths of digital vs. analog sound.
MUSICMEDIA Bob Safir offers a blueprint for building commu- nication with your clients on multimedia projects.
REEL WORLD NOTEBOOK Jeff Rona joins Mark Isham and a bevy of Michaels on a romp through the TV theme slice-and-dice machine at 20th Century Fox.
INSIDE THE MUSIC Dave Stewart straps on his safety belt, slips brains into gear, and races into the wilderness of spon- taneous composition.
CREATIVE OPTIONS Connor Freff Cochran peers into loneliness and discovers an Other.
Keyboard Reports
MARION SYSTEMS MSR-2/ASM Rack-mount analog synthesizer.
MONO BASS SYNTHS Control Synthesis Deep Bass Nine & Novation Bass Station.
AUDIO SOFTWARE Optical Media International Disc-to-Disk & Gallery Software CDStudio.
THOMAS DOLBY
The evolution of modern music is reflected in Dolby's career. Rock star frippery and concert excesses are already memories as this multifaceted composer, keyboardist, and multimedia artist discusses his score for The Gate to the Mind's Eye and imagines unprecedented adventures in interactivity just over the horizon.
REMEMBERING VINTAGE RMI
If you're planning a pilgrimage to the birthplace of digital music technology, head toward Macungie, Pennsylvania, where a group of church organists launched the revolution 25 years ago. Key- board visits the wizards behind Rocky Mount Instruments, and test-drives the classic RMI Keyboard Computer II.
12 WHO COUNT: BRIAN ENO
Ambient composition, sonic collage, synthesizer design, the most basic assumptions of what music is: There's hardly an area in our world that Eno hasn't affected. One of the most provocative thinkers in modern pop assesses the state of our art and shares a surprising vision of its future.
HOT TIPS: ROLAND'S JV SERIES
This voyage through the architecture of the JV-80, -90, and -1000 goes way beyond presets to explore layering and routing tech- niques, ways to edit sounds during live performance, and other applications you might have missed.
WORLD VIEW
Derek Sherinian hits the road with Dream Theater. Mixmaster Morris says chill's the thrill in ambient techno. Plus, a look beneath the mask at the Power Rangers' musical mastermind.
INTERFACE
CD-ROM theory lessons from Oscar Peterson. Straight talk on the Pentium panic from the Lauriston Report. New products for pianists. And bulletins on the latest sizzlin' gear in the stores or on the way.
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING
Craig Anderton solves the mystery of how to add punch to samples.
MUSICMEDIA
Bob Safir stands up for old-fashioned linear ap- proaches in scoring for video.
INSIDE THE MUSIC
Dave Stewart brews up a kettle of Sleepytime tea and sinks into the abyss of reader dreams.
REEL WORLD
Jeff Rona outlines the method behind his music on a typical episode of Chicago Hope.
SOLO PIANO
Fred Hersch stretches the harmonic web further over "Body and Soul."
COMPOSING
Richard Leiter goes back in time and down the Mis- sissippi for Maggie's American Dream.
KORG WAVEDRUM
DSP-based percussion synth.
TURTLE BEACH QUAD STUDIO
Multitrack hard disk recording system for PC.
YAMAHA W7
Synth/sequencer workstation.
SOUNDS
Bashiri Johnson's Supreme Beats, Northstar K2000 CD-ROM.
Features
KEYBOARD COMBO AMPS
The meatiest pads and the steamiest licks add up to zilch if your stage amplification can't cut it. Check out our hands-on, full-blast, roof-rattling report for the final word on amps tailor-made for your synth setup.
12 WHO COUNT: JIMMY SMITH
Forty years after transforming the face of jazz and ex- panding concepts of keyboard performance, the lion of the organ is still snarlin'.
HOT TIPS: ENSONIQ TS-10
Sound advice on quantizing drums, beefing up acoustic instrument sounds, and even saving yourself from ear damage when working with this popular synth/sample player.
MUSIC TECH SCHOOLS
Swamped by the tides of music technology? You'll find the help you need at Full Sail, Musicians Institute, or one of the other facilities in this review of educational resources.
Departments & Columns
LETTERS The Mogue conundrum.
WORLD VIEW Ron Mael sets off Sparks. Brian Auger re- turns to Oblivion. Patrick Moraz visits your living room. And Rev. Wirtz spins classic bus tapes.
INTERFACE The march of physical modeling. The thump of a muffled acoustic piano. The epidemic of Mac clones. Plus plenty of skinny on the latest gear.
IN REVIEW ELP, Al Kooper, Jacky Terrasson.
QUESTIONS Ensoniq KT-88 loading tips.
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING Craig Anderton makes a case for cassettes.
SOLO PIANO Fred Hersch reconsiders scales.
MUSICMEDIA Bob Safir opens his toolbox.
COMPOSING Richard Leiter cooks up a soca groove.
REEL WORLD Jeff Rona's deadline R/x for Chicago Hope.
INSIDE THE MUSIC Dave Stewart recounts truly gruesome dreams.
CREATIVE OPTIONS Connor Freff Cochran knows his thumb.
Keyboard Reports
SOUNDS Northstar Productions Grand Gold Pianos, East- West/Soundwarehouse XX-Large The Killer, Q Up Arts Masterbits DX-Classics, Time+Space Zero-G Ethnic.
LEXICON PCM-80 Digital effects processor.
SONY HR-MP5 Multi-effects processor.
GENERALMUSIC S2R Synth module w/ Turbo Kit upgrade.
ARBORETUM SYSTEMS HYPERPRISM Effects processing software for Mac.
REVIEWS
Syntecno TeeBee 303 clone
Tannoy PBM6.5 II monitors
Aphex Model 107 mic am
TL Audio Amp valve mic pre amp
ART MR-1 effects box
ddrum 3 electronic drums
Lexicon Reflex reverb
Roland DM-800 hard-disk recorder
Synth modules head-to-head
Retro review: Fender Rhodes
Sample CDs
Procyon Pro PC MIDI sequencer
Emagic Logic 2 ST: sequencer
MusicTime Mac sequencer
Cubasis budget PC sequencer
PROFILES
Wanted dead or alive. Another new feature which finds out just what happened to those musical pioneers. This month: John Foxx.
Moby. More styles than Burtons, Millets and Top Man, and as many opinions to boot.
William Orbit. The Strange Cargo man returns with four releases and stacks of production tips. Slowdive. The guitar band with a unique ambience give us the insights to their far-out music. Downtime. It's now at the back and it's got that Aphex Twin bloke answering questions about life, the universe and cartoons.
TECHNIQUE
Readers' demos scrutinized
The guide to sampling part 1. All those sampling secrets unveiled here.
REVIEWS
Turtle Beach Monte Carlo PC Sound Card by Panicos Georghiades
Omniphonics Footprint Amp by Paul White
Ross RX-NR4 Noise Reduction by Derek Johnson
Aphex 107 Tube Mic Preamp by Paul White
Emu Emulator IV Sampler by Paul Wiffen
Spirit PowerStation Mixer by Paul White
Sound Edit 16 for Mac by Mike Collins
Analogue Systems TH48 Sequencer by Gordon Reid
Zoom 9150 Guitar Multi-Effects by Paul White
Yamaha MU80 Module by Kevin Earley
Sound Quest MIDI Quest PC Editor by Paul Nagle
TWANGO Emotive Response Modelling System by Paul White
Widgets
All You Need To Know About The Music Business' book.
SOS Cable Management Kit.
Features
Goodbye MIDI? Hello ZIPI by Martin Russ
Mark Russell: Talking Radio by Nick Magnus
Gilad Keren: Waves Plug-Ins by Paul White
The Human League by Nigel Humberstone
Anne Dudley by Richard Buskin
Frank Kelly of Alesis by Paul White
Inside Stories: BMG Music Publishing by David Bibbey
Roland System 100M Retrospective by Chris Carter
Atari Notes
Apple Notes
PC Notes
Amiga Notes
SOUND WORKSHOPS
Live Recording Techniques by John Harris
Planning Your First Studio Part 2: by Paul White
Logical Editing With Cubase Part 2 by Simon Millward
Building A School Studio by Paul Johnson
MIDI Delays & Your Sampler by Wilf Smarties
Using Digital Delays by Paul White
Rregulars
Crosstalk More of your problems solved by our experts.
Shape Of Things To Come Derek Johnson brings you news from the leading edge of the hi-tech music and recording scenes.
Sample Shop Wilf Smarties and Paul Farrer pass judgement on a new batch of sample CDs and CD-ROMs.
Production Lines Producer Stuart Epps explains why he prefers the live approach in the studio.
Features
NEW GEAR AT NAMM Technological breakthroughs and forward-looking designs made the Anaheim music industry confab a fab gab fest. Our intrepid (if footsore) cor- respondents reveal all, from software- based synthesis to silent pianos and a Mayan sun god mask.
12 WHO COUNT: LITTLE RICHARD The wild man of rock piano changed the face of music with his ivory-smash- ing hits of the '50s. Yet for years he was too ashamed to let anyone know that he could play! Richard reveals why in this eye-opening interview.
MUTANT HARMONY When is a fourth not a fourth? Our resident music mangler shows how to twist familiar chord voicings into bizarre but effective new shapes.
BENMONT TENCH A veteran Heartbreaker helps Wild- flowers bloom onstage with a vintage setup, minimal musical gestures, and Tom Petty's sure-fire songs.
Departments & Columns
LETTERS Rants and raves from hither and yon.
WORLD VIEW Scoring with Dolly Parton, exploring Vox/Farfisa bliss with Spiritualized, flying with the Eagles, and Keith Emerson's personal garage sale.
IN REVIEW The Orb, Herbie Hancock, Magellan, and much more.
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING Craig Anderton on meter levels, DAT dropouts, and the truth about the ADAT's stop button.
SOLO PIANO Fred Hersch does some push-ups on "Body and Soul."
COMPOSING Richard Leiter finds that fame is fleeting in TV pilot scoring.
MUSICMEDIA Bob Safir unsnarls the music power of Atari's Jaguar game system.
INSIDE THE MUSIC Dave Stewart's music is overheard by Jack Nicholson and Michelle Pfeiffer, with disastrous results.
REEL WORLD Jeff Rona contemplates minimal equipment needs (and how they grow).
CREATIVE OPTIONS Connor Freff Cochran confronts the ultimate critic.
LESLIE SIMULATORS Electro-Voice Fx70, Korg G4, Motion Sound Pro-3, and Voce Spin.
SOUND FORGE 3.0 Audio editing software (PC/Windows) from Sonic Foundry.
DIGITAR Six-string strumming interface from Charlie Labs.
SOUNDS Sampleware extravaganza: Bass lines from Marcus Miller, John Patitucci, and Abraham Laboriel, beats from the Prince gang unreleased funk from George Clinton, techno/industrial from Perry Geyer and Greg Hawkes, plus loops from around the world.
Yamaha RY8 drum/tone module
Digitech GSP 2101 guitar FX
Richard Allan RA8M monitors
Nureality 3D surround sound FX
Yamaha W5/W7 soundcards
Korg X5DR sound module
Roland VG-8 guitar simulator
Nord Lead virtual synthesizer
Roland JS-30 sampler
£1,000 mixers head-to-head
Overture Mac score/sequencer
QuickScore PC score package
Sample CDs
Retro review: Casio CZ range
Tom Oberheim. The creator of the classic synths speaks out.
Tommy Barbarella. The technology behind, formerly Prince, unveiled in this exclusive.
Frontline Assembly/Delerium. They have a fanatical following over here and are doing rather well over there.
Ultramarine. Ultra hippy, ultra trippy, Ultramarine.
Wanted dead or alive. This month we find out what happened to the original symbol-act, Freur. Downtime. Gary Numan returns to FM to answer some select and somewhat stupid questions.
TECHNIQUE
Extending General MIDI So you thought you couldn't edit in GM?
The guide to sampling, part 2 How to source those superb samples
Features
ALEX PATERSON/THE ORB It's a blurry world after all: The godfather of mod- ern ambient music reflects on the art of improvis- ing with effects, the dangers of sampling from the Koran, and the importance of Can.
NEURAL NETS Thanks to fuzzy logic, these new software tools can make inspired guesses about what you want them to do. Meet a drum machine that can morph between styles and programs that can follow a conductor or transcribe chords from an audio tape
12 WHO COUNT: HERBIE HANCOCK With his latest album, Dis Is Da Drum, Hancock again changes the face of music while keeping timeless values alive. The "chameleon" of keyboard performance discusses the power and danger of technology, the spirit of Miles, and the importance of being challenged in this free- wheeling encounter.
HOT TIPS: MIDI-CONTROLLED MIXING Sound advice on using MIDI to harness the power of your computer for automated real-time volume control, smooth cross-fades, signal processing sends, and panning the hard way.
DEMO TAPE WORKSHOP Falling bridges, recycled intros, zombie grooves: These are a few of the mines that have sunk many an otherwise worthy demo. Our chart through these treacherous seas can help you make it home with the kind of killer tape your music deserves.
Departments & Columns
LETTERS Sexual dealing.
WORLD VIEW The Wolfgang Press lightens up. Digi- tal Hollywood puts on the dog. Starr Parodi survives Arsenio. Plus tips for getting your music on the radio and your dinners on the road.
INTERFACE
MUSICMEDIA Bob Safir decodes Enhanced CDs.
COMPOSING Richard Leiter takes a break.
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING Craig Anderton considers the virtues of mixing down to VHS.
SOLO PIANO Fred Hersch examines underhanded accompaniment.
REEL WORLD NOTEBOOK Jeff Rona spills his bag of tips.
OTHER WINDOWS Jim Aikin puts music in its place.
DISCOVERIES
INSIDE THE MUSIC Dave Stewart discovers simplicity.
QUESTIONS Sample-loading incompatibilities, publishing tips, and cryptic acronyms.
CREATIVE OPTIONS Connor Freff Cochran follows the leader.
Keyboard Reports
SOUNDS Time+Space Ambient, Vindaloops, & Funk Guitar, Masterbits Rapsody, Pro-Rec Mega Synth.
ENSONIQ KT-88 Sample playback synth.
YAMAHA QY300 Tabletop sequencer/accompanist.
KAT TRAPKAT MIDI percussion controller.
OPCODE OVERTURE Notation software for Mac.
CLAVIA NORD LEAD Virtual analog synth.
REVIEWS
KRK K-Rok Monitors by Paul White
Rode NT2 Microphone by Paul White
Alesis Matica Amp by Paul White
Ridge Farm Gas Cooker by Paul White
Yamaha MU5 Tone Module by Derek Johnson
Roland GI-10 MIDI Guitar System by Paul White
Roland XP-50 Music Workstation by Julian Colbeck
Soundfield ST250 Microphoneby Paul White
Allen & Heath GS1 Mixer by Paul White
Roland JS30 Sampling Workstation by Derek Johnson
Fostex XR7 Multitracker by Shirley Gray
J.L Cooper CuePoint by John Harris
Widgets
CIS Studio Desk Pro MkII.
Active Instrument Lead.
Computers
Apple Notes
Atari Notes
PC Notes
Amiga Notes
Features
20 Years Of Gateway by Paul White
Portishead: Adrian Utley by Jonathan Miller
PC Sampling Sound Cards by Panicos Georghiades
Hector Zazou by Paul Tingen
BBC Radio 1 On The Net by Martin Russ
Steve de Furia of Lexicon by Paul White
A Question Of Trust Part 2: by David Mellor
Moog Taurus Retrospective by Paul Ward
SOUND WORKSHOPS
Choosing A Microphone by Paul White
Studio Basics: The Mixer Part 4: by Paul White
Changing To Hard Disk Recording by Stephen Bennett
Creating Cubase SY85 Mixer Maps by Simon Millward
Regulars
Crosstalk More of your problems solved by our experts.
Shape Of Things To Come Derek Johnson and Jonathan Miller bring you news from the leading edge of the hi-tech music and recording scenes.
Sample Shop Wilf Smarties and Paul Farrer passes judgement on a new batch of sample CDs and CD-ROMs.
Production Lines Producer Martyn Ware bemoans the plight of today's record charts.
Features
STEVIE WONDER After 30 years of classic tunes and electrifying performances, Wonder still has plenty to say. On Conversation Peace, he says it with music. In this encounter with Keyboard, he adds words to the mix and reflects on the tools and the vision that guide him today.
20 ELECTRONIC MUSIC ESSENTIALS Not sure what MIDI is all about? Thinking of buying a computer but not sure what it could do for you? Jarred by jargon? Baffled by buzzwords? Get on the fast track with this fact-filled look at the 20 things you need to become a well-rounded- forgive the expression - electronic musician.
20TH ANNIVERSARY MEGA-GIVEAWAY Another chance to win a complete home project studio, including a Spectral Synthesis Prisma Music hard disk system, a Spirit Studio LC 24-channel mixer, a Fostex RD-8 digital multitrack recorder, plus tons o' gear from Akai, Peavey, Kurzweil, Ensoniq, and other manufacturers. Total value: $38,000!
12 WHO COUNT: JUAN ATKINS You might know him as Model 500, or one-half of Cybotron, if you know him at all. But 15 years ago, Atkins changed the course of electronic music. Keyboard goes to Motor City to meet the godfather of techno.
Departments & Columns
LETTERS A review rebuttal from Suzanne Ciani.
WORLD VIEW Alka Seltzer, Dippity Doo, frying bacon: The sonic secrets of Ren & Stimpy. Gary Wright's Afro-Brazilian epiphany. Hector Zazou's iciest samples. Bill Payne's hottest ses- sions. And Rev. Wirtz remembers Sunnyland Slim.
INTERFACE MIDI Bugs run amok! Apple bites into OMS! And a gaggle of gear updates, from Carpal Tunnel gloves to a gigantic digital organ.
COMPOSING Richard Leiter works for Peanuts.
MUSICMEDIA Bob Safir dissolves the multimedia
mirage.
INSIDE THE MUSIC Dave Stewart obsesses over "McGroggan."
SOLO PIANO Fred Hersch spins through arpeggios.
HOME RECORDING Craig Anderton cleans up his current.
CREATIVE OPTIONS Connor Freff Cochran bridges a universe or two.
Keyboard Reports
PRO DIGITAL PIANO ROUNDUP Oberheim Eclipse, Roland FP-1, & Yamaha P-300. Plus a look back at the Korg SG-1D.
OBERHEIM ECHOPLEX DIGITAL PRO Sample loop/delay footpedal device.
YAMAHA MU5 MIDI micro-module.
SOUNDS Greytsound's Philip Wolfe's Rock Keyboards, Vol. 1, Sounds Good AB's Drum Tools.
Features
WINDOWS SEQUENCERS PLENTY OF MIDI RECORDING POWER CAN BE YOURS for under $100, if you own a Windows PC: Great notation, tons of tracks, slick synchronization, or pumped-up editing muscle. But you won't find one sequencer that does it all. Check out our hands-on reviews of seven snazzy entry-level sequencers.
12 WHO COUNT: WENDY CARLOS MORE THAN A PIONEER, CARLOS IS A VISIONARY. In this wide-ranging conversation she recalls her early experiments with tape music and speculates about hybrid synthesizer technologies that can expand the palette of electronic music.
VALLEY OF THE KORGS COLLECTORS OF VINTAGE GEAR WILL BE THRILLED by this photo gallery of pre-MIDI synthesizer rarities from Korg. The exotic PS-3300 modular rubs elbows with the Mono/Poly, the popular Hammond sound- alike CX-3, and more.
Departments & Columns
LETTERS Postage stamps take a lickin': e- (for excited, or exasper- ated) mail from all over.
WORLD VIEW Mike Garson relives his glory days with David Bowie. Violent synthesizers on MTV. Slammin' with KMFDM. A look back at Don Pullen.
INTERFACE Hot news in the land of samplers: the 88-key weighted action Ensoniq ASR-88, the E-mu e-64, and the Peavey SP+. Plus Power Mac digital audio, pro DAT decks un- der $1,000, recordable CDs, mixer expanders, and much more.
OTHER WINDOWS by Jim Aikin The triumph of the bean counters, and how to turn your back on it.
IN REVIEW by Robert L. Doerschuk Bruce Hornsby gets hot, William Schimmel hits a dead end... plus CDs that are happy, beautiful, and dumb.
INSIDE THE MUSIC by Dave Stewart Further sentimental recollections of Scottish home organ virtuoso Eric McWhirter. Also, polyrhythms in 13/8.
MUSICMEDIA by Bob Safir At the Computer Game Developers Conference, Microsoft unveils the MIDI features of Windows 95.
REEL WORLD by Jeff Rona Great music vs. great film music: the demo tape dilemma.
DISCOVERIES by Titus Levi It doesn't have to be original to be fresh.
SOLO PIANO by Fred Hersch Hip substitutions and inner voice movement on the song formerly known as "Someday My Prince Will Come."
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING by Craig Anderton Why does your home studio hum? Not because it doesn't know the words.
COMPOSING by Richard Leiter New songs from old riffs: A classic triplet feel gets a facelift.
CREATIVE OPTIONS by Connor Freff Cochran Starting over from scratch (the bulldozer method).
Keyboard Reports
SOUNDS Northstar Global Instruments (Roland), Digital Kitchen Funky Rhythms, Zero-G Mo' Funky Elements, plus Swedish floppies for the Ensoniq.
YAMAHA MU80 Is it a tone module, an effects box, or a computer/MIDI interface? All three.
E-mu ESI-32 Rack-mount stereo sampler.
PAVO MIDITOOLS A utility box you can build from a kit.
Features
THE PAST Reember when it took 20 patch cords to play just one note?
20 TOP SYNTH HITS THE HIPPEST, THE BIGGEST, AND THE BEST SYNTH- drenched singles since '75. You don't agree? We've got ten runners-up too.
20 TOP ALBUMS CRANK UP THE OLD VICTROLA AND GIVE A SPIN to the 20 best keyboard albums of the past two decades.
20 MOST IMPORTANT INNOVATIONS MEET THE TECHNOLOGICAL WONDERS THAT define who we are and what we do.
QUOTES OUTRAGEOUS, HILARIOUS, & PROVOCATIVE: Those high-powered session guys and techno terrorists say the darnedest things!
THE PRESENT I know! Let's sample a radio preacher and put it over a drum loop!"
20 KILLER DRUM LOOP TIPS BASIC AND POWER-SEQUENCE ADVICE FROM THE pros on how to nail the baddest groove with your rhythm loops.
20 TOP STUDIO BARGAINS EVEN IF YOUR BUDGET'S ON EMPTY, YOU'VE GOT enough to go completely broke on your studio. Our shopping list shows how, with indispensable items rang- ing from $90 down to less than a buck.
20TH ANNIVERSARY CONCERT HORNSBY, ZAWINUL, DUKE, MORAZ: SIGHTS AND echoes from Keyboard's all-star blowout at the Winter NAMM show.
THE FUTURE The next step: virtual retro?
THE NEXT 20 YEARS: PREDICTIONS ARTISTS AND MUSIC INDUSTRY LEADERS SHARE visions of what we can expect to see, play, and hear over the next two decades.
12 WHO COUNT: STEVEN HALPERN ONE DAY, IN A REDWOOD FOREST, A TYPE-A NEW York jazzer took a deep breath, slowed down for a while, and invented new age music.
READER POLL RESULTS YOU PICKED 'EM, AND HERE THEY ARE: THE YEAR'S BEST players, albums, and products and your choices for the most important keyboard artist and technological in- novation of the past 20 years!
Keyboard Reports
ALESIS QUADRASYNTH PLUS PIANO Sample-playback synthesizer.
B-3 WANNABE ROUNDUP Hammond Suzuki XB-2 Version 2, Ober- heim OB-3, Peavey Spectrum Organ, Vis- count D9, Voce Micro B II, & Voce V3.
GENERALMUSIC SX2 Auto-accompaniment synth/sequencer.
SOUNDS Zero-G Datafile Three, Sounds Good New World Order #2, Gota Yashiki Groove Ac- tivator, Roland World Expansion Board.
Departments & Columns
LETTERS HOW MANY FATHERS DOES TECHNO HAVE?
WORLD VIEW STEVE REICH FINDS LIFE AFTER MINIMALISM ON THE STREETS of New York. John Tesh battles Entertainment Tonight. Kids quiz Jason Miles. And Rev. Wirtz invites you to feel his pain.
INTERFACE BULLETINS FROM THE GEAR FRONT: MOTU PERFORMER V. 1.6, new software from Twelve Tone, Turtle Beach, and DART, updates galore, and lots more. Plus tips on how to register your work on disc, and the Lauriston Report plugs in the Power Mac.
REEL WORLD by Jeff Rona HAS IT REALLY BEEN THAT LONG?IS JEFF JUST HAPPY TO SEE US?
QUESTIONS by Greg Rule SY99 SUPPORT, BREATH CONTROL ACCESSORIES, TIPS ON tweaking synth pads in sequences, and more.
INSIDE THE MUSIC by Dave Stewart OKAY, HERE COMES THE COLUMN. LET ME JUST FORMAT this disc first. . . . Wait a minute. "Disc Cannot Be Formatted"? A system crash? What's that smoke? Arggh!
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING by Craig Anderton TWO JUNKYARD REVERBS CAN BE ALMOST AS GOOD AS ONE slick digital model. All you need is a few bucks, a couple of patch cords, and some imagination.
MUSICMEDIA by Bob Safir IF THE LIMITATIONS OF MICROSOFT'S MIDI SPEC ARE ENOUGH to slam Windows 3.1 shut as a composition format, there's good news on the way.
DISCOVERIES by Titus Levi
COMPOSING by Richard Leiter WHAT MAKES A SONG WORK? SOMETIMES IT'S IN THE DETAILS - even in a single note in one chord voicing.
SOLO PIANO by Fred Hersch TO REVIVE A STALE RIGHT-HAND IMPROVISATION, DON'T ADD more flash and fire; go back to the melody and seek the power of simplicity.
CREATIVE OPTIONS by Connor Freff Cochran WHO ARE WE? WHY DO WE CREATE THE WAY WE DO? AND
what the heck is that guy in the seaplane looking at?
REVIEWS
Kurzweil K2500R Synth by Paul Ward
Samson S11 Microphone by Paul White
KCCM ReSample Pro by Panicos Goerghiades
Kenton Pro Solo MIDI-CV Converter by Steve Howell
Ashley Parametric EQ by Paul White
Yamaha RY8 Drum Machine by Paul Ward
Philips DCC170 Portable Digital Recorder by Paul White
Award-Session JD10 Guitar Preamp by Paul White
Creamware TripleDAT by Brian Heywood
Yamaha MU50 / CBX-K1 by Paul Nagle
Joe Meek Voice Channel by Paul White
Alesis Monitor Two by Paul White
Yamaha Sound Edge by Panicos Georghiades
Behringer Eurodesk Mixer by Paul White
Zoom 1010 Player by Paul White
3G Mynah Plus Mixer by Paul White
Widgets
Keyfax Software Twiddly Bits & Twiddly Beats
The Tube Preamp Cookbook
Computers
Apple Notes
Atari Notes
PC Notes
Amiga Notes
Features
Mikail Graham of Emagic by Paul White
The Young Gods by Nigel Humberstone
1995 Reader Survey Results by Paul White
Mark Shreeve by Jonathan Miller
At Home With... Rick Cordes by Paul White
Roland VP330 Retro by Richard Clews & Norman Fay
Miking Acoustic Instruments by Paul White
NEW SERIES: Cubase Basics Part 1: by Simon Millward
Making More Of Your Emu Proteus Part 1: by Paul Farrer
MIDI Basics: Sequencing Part 2: by Paul White
Creative Sample Loops by Wilf Smarties
Regulars
Crosstalk More of your problems solved by our experts.
Shape Of Things To Come Derek Johnson & Debbie Poyser deliver more leading edge news from the hi-tech music and recording world.
Sample Shop Wilf Smarties and Paul Farrer pass judgement on a new batch of sample CDs and CD-ROMS.
Sounding Off Paul White kicks off our new column with a personal rant and a rave...
NEAR-FIELDS OF DREAMS
WHY DO YOUR MIXES SOUND LIKE MUD? MAYBE IT'S TIME to replace those old cardboard boxes with a set of near-field monitors. Keyboard looks at eight representative systems.
NEAR-FIELD OF VISION
WHAT EXACTLY ARE NEAR-FIELD MONITORS? FIVE INDUSTRY experts talk crossovers, time alignment, and off-axis coloration.
NEAR-FIELD EXPERIENCES
REVEALING AUDIO ENCOUNTERS WITH EIGHT NEW PAIRS of monitors, and insightful comments from their designers.
12 WHO COUNT: KEITH EMERSON
A REVEALING RIDE ON THE ROLLER COASTER KNOWN AS Keith Emerson's life.
THE MANAGEMENT MAZE
WHAT CAN A MANAGER DO FOR YOU? HOW CAN YOU separate the winners from the weasels?
20 SOUNDS THAT MUST DIE
ABOUT TO PUNCH UP THAT DX7 RHODES PATCH? DO THE world a favor and read this first.
Departments & Columns
LETTERS
IN DEFENSE OF HERBIE. MORE VINTAGE KORGS. GOING nuts-mongongo that is.
WORLD VIEW
OMAR LYE-FOOK: THE WYNTON MARSALIS OF SOUL? Chris Buzby of Echolyn. Robert L.'s farewell. Do-it-yourself record making. Spooner Oldham's dates. On the road with George Strait. And an unforgettable getaway with the Rev.
INTERFACE NEW GEAR
HOT NAMM! THIS YEAR'S GATHERING IN NASHVILLE WAS a new-product bonanza.
MUSICMEDIA by Bob Safir
A FUNNY THING HAPPENED TO BOB ON THE WAY TO the checkout stand.
INSIDE THE MUSIC by Dave Stewart
HOW I LEARNED TO LOVE MY COMPUTER. AND IF YOU think that's the truth, Dave's got a bridge to sell you.
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING by Craig Anderton EXTERMINATING THOSE PESKY POPS AND SNAPS FROM your vocal tracks.
SOUNDS E-Lab AB X-Static Goldmine, Sampleheads New York City Drumworks, Big Fish Brotherhood.
TASCAM M-2600 8-Bus Recording Console.
LESLIE PREAMPS C.A.E. LTP 122 and Trek II UC-IA.
ROLAND XP-50 Synthesizer/workstation.
BARCUS-BERRY PLANER WAVE PIANO SYSTEM Acoustic piano pickup.
SOLO PIANO by Fred Hersch IF PHRASES ARE LIKE SENTENCES, CHORUSES LIKE paragraphs, and solos like short stories, then chords are the adjectives.
REEL WORLD by Jeff Rona YOU'RE CRANKING OUT CUES FOR THAT ALL- important soundtrack gig when, uh oh, what's this pink slip in the mail box?
COMPOSING by Richard Leiter TOMATOES, BASIL, SALAD, AND INTESTINAL FORTI- tude? Huh? Richard gets anatomical.
CREATIVE OPTIONS by Connor Freff Cochran QUANTUM PHYSICS AND HUMAN CONSCIOUS- ness. Connor breaks it all down.
MULTITRACK CASSETTE DECKS WHETHER YOU'RE ON A LIMITED BUDGET, need a sketchpad to take on tour, or just don't trust computers, you'll find that the latest gen- eration of multitrack cassette machines offers plen- ty of options for entry-level recording. We switch on 13 machines, from no frills to major thrills, and report on what comes up in the monitors.
MULTITRACK CASSETTE CHART INS AND OUTS, SWITCHES, METERS, BUSES, aux sends, EQ... all the stats side by side for easy comparison.
MULTITRACK CASSETTE TEST RESULTS ADMITTEDLY, NOBODY IS GOING TO CON- fuse a cassette's signal-to-noise ratio with a digital recorder's. But some multitracks are better than others at squeezing top performance out of analog tape.
12 WHO COUNT: CHICK COREA AN EARLY CHAMPION OF SYNTHESIZERS IN jazz fusion, these days Chick sticks mainly with piano including a real honest-to-goodness Rhodes. In this wide-ranging conversation, he reflects on the nature of inspiration and the artistic process.
EMERGENCY BROADCAST NETWORK SAMPLING ISN'T JUST FOR AUDIO ANY- more. EBN's electronic dream-fest slices and dices video onstage.
LOOKING BACK ON HISTORY YOU'VE SEEN THE STATUE, READ THE COMIC book, traded the bubble gum cards... now it's time to learn about the music. Six pro session players tell tales about their weeks and months in the studio with Michael Jackson.
HOT TIPS: GENERALMUSIC S2/S2R EMULATING ORGAN DRAWBARS, PSEUDO- arpeggiator effects, MIDI processing, automated mixing, and more.
Keyboard Reports
SOUNDS Steve Gadd drum tracks, Nord Lead analog-style samples, Twiddly Bits MIDI files, and an Akai CD-ROM.
ZENDRUM Strap-on MIDI percussion controller.
DOEPFER MS-404 Rack-mount analog synth.
ROLAND MS-1 Portable loop/phrase sampler.
Departments
LETTERS READERS CHECK IN ON OUR 20 BEST LISTS. PLUS FLYING blind on the B-3 clones, computer empowerment of minorities, and hiring your own hall.
WORLD VIEW PATRICK O'HEARN GETS DOWN, NEW GAINS FOR GAINES, a Penguin Cafe near you, a cup of Liquid Mind, Earth, Wind & Fire hit the road, five pianos with only two hands, and a ride in the Ultimate Taxi.
INTERFACE AN EXPANDABLE BUDGET SAMPLER FROM AKAI, A DRAWBAR organ module from Oberheim, MOTU FreeStyle for Windows, a Spirit rack mixer, and much, much more.
IN REVIEW EXPLORING THE CULTURE AND PSYCHOLOGY OF JAZZ in a penetrating, thought-provoking book. Plus new synthesizer CDs: The drones swarm on the battleground.
SOLO PIANO by Fred Hersch EVER WISHED YOU HAD A FEW EXTRA FINGERS? MAYBE YOU just need to coax some fresh voicings out of the ones you al- ready have.
MUSICMEDIA by Bob Safir INTERESTED IN COMPOSING GAME MUSIC FOR THE SEGA Saturn? Here's what your development environment would look like.
INSIDE THE MUSIC by Dave Stewart DAVE HOPS ON THE MEMORABILIA BANDWAGON, AND is promptly jostled off the tailgate by his bandmates. Django Bates has a polyrhythmic chuckle over it all.
COMPOSING by Richard Leiter EXCITEMENT, SATISFACTION, AND TWO MINUTES OF FAME scoring for the big screen.
REEL WORLD by Jeff Rona SOMETIMES, DOING MORE THAN YOU'RE ASKED WILL OPEN up job opportunities. But sometimes it will land you in hot water.
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING by Craig Anderton LATE-BREAKING TIPS FOR ADAT USERS CHECKING AND organizing your tapes, synchronization, and more.
DISCOVERIES by Titus Levi SIX UP-AND-COMING ARTISTS. THE SPOTLIGHT THIS MONTH is on techno voodoo.
CREATIVE OPTIONS by Connor Freff Cochran MEET THE GATEKEEPER AT THE FRONT DOOR OF FREFF'S BRAIN.
12 WHO COUNT: TRENT REZNOR
WHO ELSE BUT THE MEISTER OF MODERN electronic angst should we select to round out this year's series of probing interviews? Trent gives us a peek inside his new studio and muses about spontaneity and his stage persona. David Lee Roth he ain't.
MEET THE BUYER'S GUIDE
TO PARAPHRASE BOB DYLAN... IT'S A hard, it's a hard, it's a hard, it's a hard, it's a hard ware gonna be on display this year. All the stuff we could fit (as long as it doesn't require a com- puter), we print.
SYNTHESIZERS & TONE MODULES EVERYTHING FROM ANALOG RACK- mounts to 88-key workstations, from preset GM boxes to infinitely deep programmables. A fea- ture-by-feature chart gives the scoop on about 90 different instruments.
SAMPLERS
FROM DAC TO RACK AND BACK: FEATURE- by-feature chart comparisons of 18 samplers.
DIGITAL PIANOS
HOME MODELS WITH SPEAKERS, PRO touring pianos with terrific actions, and afford- able yet realistic tabletop modules this feature-by-feature chart has the lowdown on dozens of instruments.
DIGITAL ORGANS
TO B OR NOT TO B? WE SKIPPED THE HOME organ fun machines in favor of a features chart containing mostly B-3 soundalikes (both mod- ules and the furniture variety).
PORTABLE KEYBOARDS
YOU'RE NOT GONNA TAKE YOUR KT-88 back to the hotel after the gig, that's for sure. But maybe a songwriting station with built-in speakers and sequencing is in the cards. Yes, it's another extensive feature-laden chart.
ELECTRONIC PERCUSSION
PAD KITS AND DRUM TONE MODULES form the backbone of this year's percussion list- ings, but the eagle-eyed may discem an actual drum machine or two.
DIGITAL MULTITRACK RECORDERS BOTH TAPE AND TAPELESS RECORDING systems (but nothing that requires a computer) are detailed in this feature-by-feature chart. If you're looking to make tracks that come clean, look no further.
MULTI-EFFECTS PROCESSORS
PHARBULIZING, VERBIAGE, MULTI-SLAP, echolalia, choral hydrate-42 programmable processors compared in a feature-by-feature chart, plus a list of all the preset and special- ized effects we could find (omitting only stomp-boxes).
MIXERS & DAT DECKS
PRICE LISTS AND BASIC FEATURES ON 8-BUS mixers and both portable and pro DAT decks.
MIDI CONTROLLERS, PROCESSORS, RETROFITS, STANDS, & CASES
NOT JUST MASTER KEYBOARDS BUT VIOLIN and saxophone controllers, slider boxes, and Thunder and Lightning. Plus mergers and patch- bays, ARP and Moog retrofits, and you guessed it a truckload of brand new bags.
SOUNDWARE
CDs, CD-ROMs, FLOPPIES, AND PATCH ROM and RAM cards, broken down by manufacturer and instrument compatibility.
HOW TO PLAY SALSA
AN EXPERT PLAYER OFFERS HER INSIGHTFUL ANALYSIS OF AFRO- Caribbean styles, both historic and modern. When the bandleader calls a mambo, don't get caught with your clave down!
TANGERINE DREAM
SYNTHESIZER PIONEER EDGAR FROESE TALKS CANDIDLY ABOUT former bandmates, remixes and reissues, guitar soloing, future tech, and why he isn't writing for films.
ROLAND S-760 HOT TIPS
QUICKER, MORE EFFECTIVE WAYS TO MAKE NEW SAMPLES, EDIT THEM, and store them to disk, plus advice from a pro on how to optimize memory and time-stretch your beat loops.
EAT STATIC
SEVERED TENTACLES: TWO FORMER MEMBERS OF OZRIC TENTACLES serve up a heapin' helpin' of danceable electronic weirdness.
SOUNDS AN OMINOUS COMBINATION: DISTORTED REALITY AND Mind Control.
GOLDEN EARS AURAL PERCEPTION HOME TRAINING COURSE.
KORG PROPHECY MONOPHONIC LEAD SYNTHESIZER.
SOUNDTREK JAMMER AUTOMATED INTELLIGENT COMPOSITION SOFTWARE.
WORLD VIEW
THE WORLD'S GREATEST DOWN-HOME MUSIC PARTY, A sample-free funk zone, anatomy of a custom-tailored record deal, slicing up the dead, plus the strangest tour bus story ever.
INTERFACE
LATE-BREAKING NEWS ON MUSIC TECHNOLOGIES AT LAST fall's AES convention in New Yawk: a pile of Pro Tools plug- ins, hard disk recorders from Akai and Fostex, a Win95 waveform editor, integrated sequencer/audio recorders for the PC, and more mixers than you could shake a Chapman Stick at.
IN REVIEW
A TOOTH, A BLACK LUNG, A MONSOON, A WRETCHED family, thugs, chemicals-Jim Aikin spins some startling new CDs.
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING by Craig Anderton
IF YOU NEED IT LOUDER BUT IT'S ALREADY AT TEN, CHECK out these patented techniques for bringing instruments forward in a mix.
INSIDE THE MUSIC by Dave Stewart
CONFRONTED WITH THE CLASSIC DILEMMA OF KURDS and whey, Dave artfully distracts the reader by nattering on about royal personages and laptop computers in the subway.
COMPOSING by Richard Leiter
EVERY VOCALIST IS DIFFERENT. TO WRITE WELL, YOU NEED to know their range, and a scratch track is worth its weight in gold.
MUSICMEDIA by Bob Safir
INTERESTED IN COMPOSING GAME MUSIC FOR SONY'S HOT new PlayStation platform? Our multimedia expert takes a peek under the hood.
REEL WORLD by Jeff Rona
HOW WILL YOU HANDLE IT WHEN THE DIRECTOR CHOPS up your music, or scuttles that terrific song entirely?
SOLO PIANO by Fred Hersch
THE SECRET OF METRIC MODULATION FROM THREE TO four and back. Also, more ways to practice phrasing while waiting for your prince to come.
DISCOVERIES by Titus Levi
SNAPPY NEW TAPES FROM AN AWARD-WINNING SOUND editor and a Brazilian synthesist who switched to piano.
Jammer Pro 2.0 compose on the PC
Re'an RPM48S patchbay system
Nobels MV-C MIDI volume controller
GEAR OF THE YEAR!
The best studio gear
The best sound gear
The best DTM gear
Yamaha QS300 workstation
Alesis QS6 synthesizer
E-mu Darwin hard-disk recorder
Session 2.0 Mac recording software
Yamaha PSR7000 home workstation
WaveCraft PC synth software
Retro: Roland W-30 sampler
Sample CDs play and sample
CD Central the best new and old
DJ Special. How three of the UK's top DJs, Paul Oakenfold, Billy Nasty and Justin Robertson play and produce the sounds that are shaping the future of dance music.
Node. Flood and his gang have more retro gear than most and a sound to match. Here's how they do it; in the studio, at home, and at Paddington Station.
Wanted dead or alive. Remember the emotive Hey Matthew? Find out what Karel Fialka is up to now.
Downtime. No Man use technology to produce a sweet, angelic sound. The band's Tim Bowness talks devilishly about Vimto and armpits.
Interface. Readers' technical questions answered.
Making music on a budget pt 2. You don't need a stack of cash for music! Take a look at this cheap hardware
Beginners' guide to mixing pt 3. Hints, tips, and a few insider secrets from the stars on how to get the ideal mix.
SOUND WORKSHOPS
Running MIDI Gear Live Paul Overaa
Using Drawmer Noise Gates by David Mellor
NEW SERIES Sampling Basics Part 1: by Paul White
Tape Noise Reduction by Paul White
Sample Shop Wilf Smarties and Paul Farrer pass judgement on a new batch of sample CDs and CD-ROMS.
Regulars
Crosstalk More of your problems solved by our experts.
Shape Of Things To Come Derek Johnson & Debbie Poyser deliver more leading edge news from the hi-tech music and recording world.
Sounding Off Eugene Romain wonders why so many musicians are consumed by lust for the next big thing'.
Computers
Atari Notes by Ofir Gal
Apple Notes by Martin Rus
PC Notes by Brian Heyv
Amiga Notes by Paul Overa
REVIEWS
Randy Thorderson of DOD/DigiTech by Paul White
Living With... SAW & Cakewalk Professional PC Software by Janet Harniman Cook
Towering Inferno by Peter Jones
Rogers LS1 Nearfield Monitors by Paul White
Audio Technica ATM10a/33a Microphones by Paul White
Fita Parametric EQ by Paul White
SPL MikeMan Preamp by Paul White
Emu Systems Darwin by Paul Ward
Viscount MF01 Songworker by Andy Davies
Alesis QS6 Synthesizer by Rob Brady
MOTU Freestyle PC Sequencer by Paul Nagle
Alesis ADAT XT Recorder by Paul White
Korg Trinity Workstation Part 2: by Gordon Reid
Yamaha QS300 Synthesizer by Derek Johnson
Buying Your First Synth by Derek Johnson & Debbie Poyser
William Orbit by Mark Prendergast
NEW SERIES How To Become A Record Producer Part 1: by David Mellor
Turnkey Music Superstore by Paul White
SAMPLE THE WORLD
MUSICIANS IN QUEST OF FRESH SOUNDS ARE FANNING OUT around the globe to sample the exotic sonorities of traditional cul- tures. Our in-depth survey of resources and the playing techniques that will make them sound more authentic.
THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO JAMES WILLIAMS
YOU DON'T HAVE TO BE SANCTIFIED TO PLAY GOSPEL PIANO — but add a few of these chord voicings to your next solo and you'll have your listeners shouting "Hallelujah!"
CHRISTOPHER FRANKE
YOU MAY REMEMBER HIM BEST FOR HIS YEARS WITH TANGERINE Dream, but these days he's scoring big with TV's Babylon 5. He "buses" his orchestra into Hollywood from Germany, and he's never satisfied unless he surprises himself.
LEFTFIELD
A NEW ELECTRONIC DANCE DUO GRADUATES FROM SINGLES TO a grand slam. Paul Daley and Neil Barnes step up to the plate and knock one out of the park.
HOT TIPS: PASSPORT ENCORE
A PRO WHO PRINTS OUT PARTS FOR UNIVERSAL STUDIOS OFFERS session-tested techniques for scissoring in measures, printing out over- size parts, transcribing MIDI files, getting the correct enharmonic spellings quickly, and much more.
SOUNDS QUP DENNY JAEGER PRIVATE COLLECTION, XX-LARGE Analogue Dreams, & Big Fish Drum Loops 3.
NOVATION BASSSTATION RACK RACK-MOUNT ANALOG SYNTH.
OPCODE STUDIO VISION 3.0 SEQUENCER/HARD DISK RECORDER (MAC).
ENSONIQ DP/2 MULTI-EFFECTS PROCESSOR.
KORG X5D MULTITIMBRAL SYNTHESIZER.
Departments
LETTERS
A PROGGER GETS WIRED, AN UPGRADE FAN GETS BENT out of shape, we lose our grip- plus a future farewell from Brainmusic magazine.
WORLD VIEW
A NEEDLE IN YOUR EAR, PUNK PIANO FROM A FORMER drummer, a burning Download from two ex-Puppies, kicking back on the road with half a Zeppelin, rainbow keys, a Downes syndrome rerun, and news from all over.
INTERFACE
INVISION'S SYNTH ON A DISK, PLUG-IN ARRIVALS FROM Power Technology and Digidesign, a major software upgrade from Emagic, PC digital audio tools from Voyetra and Musicator, Ensoniq's new rack-mount synth, and much more.
IN REVIEW
NUMBER MAGIC, THE UNDERWORLD, THE IRON CURTAIN, disappearing, an error-this month the only refuge from occultism and negativity is a pair of dandy videos on the Hammond organ.
REEL WORLD by Jeff Rona
ANOTHER MIXDOWN SUNRISE TEACHES OUR HOLLYWOOD correspondent the fine art of grace (-notes) under pressure.
MUSICMEDIA by Bob Safir
WHEN IT COMES TO COMPOSING FOR MULTIMEDIA, LESS is definitely more. Here's how to get more out of less.
COMPOSING by Richard Leiter
CHART ANXIETY? AN ACE ARRANGER SHARES SOME HOT ideas for smokin' horn voicings.
DISCOVERIES by Titus Levi
ELECTRIC JAZZ FROM A GUITARIST-TURNED-KEYBOARDIST and a couple of Polish expatriates. Plus new CDs from a couple of Discoveries alumni.
INSIDE THE MUSIC by Dave Stewart
SEIZED BY A PAROXYSM OF GUILT, OR POSSIBLY A POUNDING sinus headache, Dave devotes this month's text almost exclusively to a discussion of music.
SOLO PIANO by Fred Hersch
ONE FOR THE MONEY, TWO FOR THE SHOW, THREE TO get ready fresh strategies for the classic intro.
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING by Craig Anderton THOSE WHO FAIL TO BACK UP THEIR HISTORY MAY BE UNABLE to repeat it.
X-FILES SOME OF THE MOST OTHER-WORLDLY SOUNDS ON NETWORK TV come straight from Mark Snow's home studio. Join us behind the scenes as we probe the hardware, working methods, and musical goals of the production team responsible for the latest science fiction classic.
MIRROR ETUDES WHAT GOES UP MUST COME DOWN, AS JAZZ PIANO VIRTUOSO Mario Grigorov presents three keyboard-symmetrical finger twisters. (If you're already ambidextrous, try transposing the left hand to some other key.)
RICHARD EINHORN FOLLOWING A SUCCESSFUL STINT AS A "SERIOUS" COMPOSER WHO crossed over to film and TV work, Einhorn dropped out to pursue an ob- session with a 1928 silent movie about Joan of Arc. He thought his oratorio would flop, but Sony Classics had other ideas.
THE RENTALS ARE YOU A SYNTHESIZER PLAYER? DON'T BE EMBARRASSED; THE Rentals aren't. Even if their retro gear blows up onstage, they refuse to use sampled imitations.
VOCALIST HOT TIPS WHETHER YOU NEED TO TURN YOUR SOLO VOCAL TRACK INTO a choir with perfect intonation or generate a few out-of-this-world electronic effects, our clinic on the Digitech Studio Vocalist will make you more productive and improve the sound of your mixes.
Keyboard Reports
SOUNDS THREE HOT CDs: LOOP SOUP, POWER HITS, AND L.A. RIOT 3.
E-mu DARWIN STAND-ALONE 8-TRACK HARD DISK RECORDER.
FATAR STUDIO 1176 MIDI MASTER KEYBOARD CONTROLLER.
TECHNICS SX-WSA1 ACOUSTIC MODELING WORKSTATION SYNTHESIZER.
Departments
LETTERS SPICE IS NICE, BUT NEW TECHNOLOGY IS GETTING OLD, AND THE service isn't getting any better either.
WORLD VIEW ON THE ROAD WITH BOWIE. MARIAN MCPARTLAND DODGES flying charts. Steve Winwood goes to the dogs. Adam and Rachel work out with Wayne. The Beastie Boys' carpenter releases a solo CD. Lucky Dube disavows drugs and dreadlocks. And Dorothy returns from Oz.
INTERFACE MULTIMEDIA RESOURCES FOR LAPTOP PCS, A NEW LEXICON MULTI- effects processor, and recordable CDs for unbelievably cheap - plus gear trolleys, speaker stands, and chord transposition wheels.
IN REVIEW by Jim Aikin THE LAST WORD ON THE NEGATIVLAND/U2 FLAP, PLUS CRYSTAL Oscillations, a Dazzler, a Blue Room, and... Jack Bruce on piano?
MUSICMEDIA by Bob Safir IT'S A GLUT BUT OF WHAT? THIS MONTH OUR MULTIMEDIA consultant dons his prospector's wading boots and finds his pan full of Fool's Gold.
SOLO PIANO by Fred Hersch TAKE THIS CLASSIC CHARLIE PARKER TUNE OUT FOR A SPIN. YOU'LL find that blowing in bebop requires a firm grasp of hand positions and accent patterns.
COMPOSING by Richard Leiter DISCOVER THE BASIC TECHNIQUES OF 12-TONE COMPOSITION and you'll have a whole new way to row, row, row your boat.
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING by Craig Anderton EVEN IN THE ALL-DIGITAL UNIVERSE, GETTING AUDIO FROM point A to point B without degradation (or confusion) can pose un- expected problems.
QUESTIONS by David Battino DATA TAPE STORAGE ON A SAMPLER, VINTAGE SOLUTIONS, AND some egg carton substitutes.
INSIDE THE MUSIC by Dave Stewart THE BRITISH HAVE SOME STRANGE NOTIONS ABOUT LIFE ON THIS side of the Atlantic, as evidenced by guest artist Django Bates, who gets polyrhythmically lost in "New York, New York."
DISCOVERIES by Titus Levi WHAT GOES AROUND COMES AROUND. TITUS DROPS THE NEEDLE -er, playback head-on cassettes from half a dozen artists who work in familiar styles.
CREATIVE OPTIONS by Connor Freff Cochran FROM THE MING DYNASTY TO BERLIN, WALLS MAKE GOOD neighbors. Or do they? Sometimes, whether in life or in art, you have to drop your guard in order to grow and change.
Korg i5m workstation module
Boss ME-8 guitar multi-effects unit
Motu FreeStyle trackless sequencer
Vintage sound modules round-up the best new modules for old sounds
Quasimidi Cyber 6 keyboard controller
Cakewalk Pro Audio PC sequencing software with audio support
Waldorf Pulse analogue monosynth rack
Aural Synthetica Amiga sound creation software
Alesis MicroVerb 4 budget reverb
Yamaha CBX-K1XG MIDI controller and tone generator
Alesis ADAT XT digital multitracker
Sample CDs sound-crammed discs
CD Central song-crammed discs
The Human League Listen to the voice of Philip. He'll say stop your sampling culture. We were watching, we were waiting. And here are the rather great results.
Dreadzone They took slices of classical brass and strings and techno'd them up for one of the top tunes of the year, so far. We caught them at it.
Wanted dead or alive Spizzles, Athletico Spizz 80, Spizzenergi, Spizzle, Spizz 77... and the rest. Is there a Spizz 96? Find out here.
Downtime. Hey CJ! The man called Bolland gets the Downtime grilling. Does he talk Bollanks? Read it and find out...
Better beats. You asked us how to program great dance beats. So here we go with part 1. Hit me, hit me, hit me, hit me now
60 essential sequencing tips. Part 1 of this new series gives you the first 30 glorious ideas to get the best from your sequencer. Load it up, load it up.
SECRETS OF THE REMIX MASTERS FORGET ABOUT THE SYNC TONE: ALL YOU NEED IS A VOCAL TRACK, a mess of drum samples, and a willingness to write whole new songs and never collect a cent in royalties. This month we talked to half a dozen top remixers to learn exactly how they perform their studio magic.
SAMPLE THE WORLD, PART II PERCUSSION FROM ALL OVER: OUR GUIDED TOUR OF EXOTIC SOUNDS from around the globe concludes with Dave Stewart's detailed discussion of clay drums, gourd rattles, and tambourines. Also included: an annotated list of CDs on which you can find such treasures.
BEATLES DIGITAL RESURRECTION THE NEW BEATLES SINGLE MADE HEADLINES: JOHN LENNON'S VOCAL and piano were lifted from a home demo. Now Keyboard takes you behind the scenes to reveal exactly how technological wizardry turned a 15-year-old cassette into a radio-ready hit.
HOW TO PLAY RHYTHM CHANGES GERSHWIN'S CLASSIC CHORD CHANGES FOR "I GOT RHYTHM" HAVE become as much a foundation of jazz improvisation as the blues itself. Pianist Andy LaVerne shows the scales and voicings you'll need to know the next time the leader calls "Rhythm."
GOLDIE SPRAY-PAINTED GRAFFITI BECOMES MUSIC AS THIS BRITISH JUNGLE KING gets the club scene hopping. And you gotta dig those teeth.
LIVE AT MAYBECK RECITAL HALL AN ONGOING SERIES OF SUCCESSFUL JAZZ PIANO ALBUMS BY TODAY'S top artists emanates from this intimate venue in Berkeley, California. Find out who created the series, how the piano is miked, and more.
Keyboard Reports
SOUNDS ZERO G'S JUNGLE WARFARE, MASTERBITS' INSPIRATION ZONE, and much du about nothing.
AKAI DR8 STAND-ALONE 8-TRACK HARD DISK RECORDER.
MARK OF THE UNICORN UNISYN UNIVERSAL EDITOR/LIBRARIAN SOFTWARE (PC, MAC, ATARI).
DIGIDESIGN SESSION MULTITRACK DIGITAL AUDIO RECORDER (MAC).
Departments
LETTERS ZERO FOR ZAWINUL, TYPING BACKWARDS, TIRED EARS IN THE U.K., context-sensitive licensing, and the case of the missing Turtle.
WORLD VIEW HARDFLOOR JAMS TRIP-HOP. TIM GORMAN RESTORES POPEYE. Rob Mounsey goes flying. Chester Thompson pilots the Killer B for Santana. Philippe Saisse gets creative. Plus updates from Chris Jasper, Gary Wright, and Front Line Assembly, and news from all over.
INTERFACE SOFTWARE FOR SEX CHANGES, SPEAKER EMULATION, AND making NoiZe. Logic does Windows, plug-ins for Deck II and Sound Forge, a new Emulator keyboard, and more.
IN REVIEW by Jim Aikin FINALLY AN EXPLANATION FOR THE MUSIC BUSINESS! PLUS new CDs by Craig Huxley, Clare Fischer, Lee Feldman, Braincell, and the ever-popular Various Artists.
REEL WORLD by Jeff Rona HOW TO SOUND LIKE YOURSELF, AND THE NASTY THINGS that can happen when you try not to.
COMPOSING by Richard Leiter A NEW SOLO PIANO PIECE WITH A VINCE GUARALDI FEEL.
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING by Craig Anderton IN A QUANDARY OVER WHICH COMPUTER TO BUY FOR YOUR studio? There are no perfect solutions, but don't write off the Mac- intosh quite yet.
INSIDE THE MUSIC by Dave Stewart NOT UNLIKE A KELP-FESTOONED PLESIOSAUR RISING FROM the depths of some remote loch, Scots home organ virtuoso Eric McWhirter returns to the pages of Keyboard.
QUESTIONS by David Battine SAMPLING INTO A PC, THE DX7 GETS A VELOCITY BOOST, AND help with E-mu technical support.
DISCOVERIES by Titus Levi PIERRE SCHROEDER AND FREDERICK MOORE CHECK IN WITH free-form liturgical music from Southern California.
SOLO PIANO by Fred Hersch WHEN THE TOP NOTE IN THE CHORD VOICINGS STAYS THE same throughout the progression, fascinating harmonic colors can emerge.
CREATIVE OPTIONS by Connor Freff Cochran DON'T BE FOOLED BY THE MAKEUP. ARTISTS IN HOLLYWOOD sweat buckets, and not just because they're worried about passing the audition.
QUICK SHOTS
Clavia Nord Rack Virtual Analog synth19
Cakewalk Pro Audio Deluxe CD PC sequencing software with audio support..21
Twiddly Bits - The Funk MIDI files..21
YOUR COMPLETE STUDIO
The workstation:
Roland VS-880
The effects:
Digitech Studio Quad
The keyboard synth:
The QuasiMidi Raven
The mixer:
Behringer 2642
The sequencer:
Opcode Studio Vision (Mac)
The sound module:
Ensoniq MR Rack
SoundForge Sample editing software
Akai Remix 16 DJ phrase sampler
Retro: History of the Hammond organ
Sample CDs sound snippets sorted
CD Central commercial critique
This is the BBC
It's 40 years ago today (probably) that the BBC set up The Radiophonic Workshop. We discover all the secrets of the ultimate hi-tech composing factory.
Keith Chegwin! You read it correctly. Cheggers really does play pop. And classical. And just about everything else. And he makes money from it! 'Where are you Keith?".
Loop Guru
The phrase 'melting pot' was invented for this lot. A fusion of musical elements from around the world. 'Where are you really from, Loop Guru?'
Wanted dead or alive
When ABC sing, we hear violins. But we haven't heard those glam-pop songs for some time. "Where are you now ABC?'
Downtime
Let's come together. Right now. With The Beloved. Perfect pop meets dance and there's some questions to be asked...
60 essential sequencing tips pt 2. The second and final installment on how to become a better sequencer user.
REVIEWS
Pioneer D9601 DAT by Paul White
Behringer Eurorack by Paul White
Waldorf Gekkos by Paul Ward
Yamaha Pro R3 Digital Reverb by Paul White
Emu E4K Sampling Keyboard by Paul Wiffen
Steinberg Cubase Score 2.0 PC by Kevin Pawsey
Kurzweil K2500 Workstation by Paul Ward
Ensoniq MR Rack by Julian Colbeck
Yamaha RM800 Mixer by Derek Johnson
Isotrack SmartPatch by Paul White
Soundfield SPS422 Mic by Paul White
Brief Encounters
APES AcoustiShirt System
Music House Data Products Powermaster Genesis drive system.
PC Notes by Brian Heyw
Amiga Notes by Paul Overa
Atari Notes by Ofir Gal
Apple Notes by Martin Russ
Features
Servicing Your Gear: Part 2 by Derek Johnson & Debbie Poyser
Living With... Soundscape by Brian Heywood
The Drake Trust by Mark Prendergast
Paul Schütze by Paul Tingen
At Home With... Nigel Beaham Powell & Bella Russell by Paul White
How To Become A Record Producer Part 4: by David Mellor
Roland MSQ700 Retrospective by Steve Howell
SOUND WORKSHOPS
Arpeggiators Explained by Paul White
Multi-platform Editing by Colin Owen
All About Compression by Paul White
Synthesizing Analogue Drums by Tom Carpenter
Regulars
Sample Shop Wilf Smarties and Paul Farrer pass judgement on a new batch of sample CDs and CD-ROMs.
Crosstalk More of your problems solved by our experts.
Shape Of Things To Come Derek Johnson & Debbie Poyser deliver more leading edge news from the hi-tech music and recording world.
Sounding Off Mike Collins defends the Macintosh as a digital recording platform.
NEW GEAR '96 SO... YOU WANT GEAR? FOOLISH MORTALS! YOU will soon learn the error of your ways. Throw them in the pit, Igor. There they will be crushed by the exquisite heaps of new synthesizers, digital pianos, hard disk recorders, effects, sequencer updates, and other para- phernalia that we brought back from the trade show held each January in the same Southern California city where that famous cartoon mouse amusement park is located.
ACE OF BASE CAN YOU ACTUALLY GET CAVITIES FROM LISTENING to such sugary dance pop? And how many synthesizers can one star own? For definitive answers, we tracked down Ace Ulf Ekberg, and then sneaked a photographer into his ultra-wired studio to snap the racks.
PRIVATE LESSON: IVAN NEVILLE CONTEMPLATE ANOTHER NEVILLE. SIT DOWN AT the Clavinet next to the offspring of a famous New Orleans music family, and learn a few of the licks that got him jobs with Keith Richards and Bonnie Raitt.
WEAPON OF CHOICE KEEFUS CIANCIA MAY USE SYNTHS THAT ARE OLDER than he is, but there's nothing stale about Weapon's cut- and-twist adventures in hard-rockin' funk.
Keyboard Reports
KORG TRINITY PLUS SYNTHESIZER/SEQUENCER WORKSTATION.
ENSONIQ MR-RACK RACK-MOUNT MULTITIMBRAL TONE MODULE.
ROLAND XP-10 SYNTHESIZER.
KURZWEIL K2500 SYNTHESIZER/SAMPLER/SEQUENCER WORKSTATION.
BEATBOY MIDI FILES GM-COMPATIBLE DRUM SEQUENCE LIBRARY.
Departments
LETTERS SHOWROOM DUMMIES, ANOTHER BACKWOODS LAMENT, service with a scowl, and searching for that big fast break.
WORLD VIEW THE WORD'S OUT ON TONY RICH. WAYNE SHARPE TAKES A helicopter ride. Paul Schütze eschews computers. Jon Ernst kisses his lounge gig goodbye. Joey Schmidt and Pete Wasner spill the krill on Vince Gill. Leland W. Sprinkle gets way down. Plus, how to collect royalties.
IN REVIEW by Jim Aikin TWINS, CHEMICALS, UNKNOWN REGIONS, THE SEARCH FOR intelligent life, a big zero, and playing with the devil.
SOLO PIANO by Fred Hersch EXPAND YOUR IMPROVISATIONAL VOCABULARY WITH THESE easy-to-learn textural techniques.
MUSICMEDIA by Bob Safir NOT BIG NEWS: GETTING THE GIG MEANS PUTTING YOUR best foot forward with a killer demo. In multimedia, though, the requirements for a demo are a little different.
QUESTIONS by David Battine ENSONIQ VIDEO TUTORIALS, CD NETWORKING WITH THE Mac, the MSR-2 gets snappy, MIDI remotes, and the Tangerine Dream back catalog.
REEL WORLD by Jeff Rona A SEA-GOING ADVENTURE NOT ONLY ON-SCREEN BUT BEHIND the scenes, as our Hollywood correspondent wades in at the last minute to bail out an almost-completed Ridley Scott adventure.
COMPOSING by Richard Leiter FILM COMPOSER THOMAS NEWMAN OFFERS INSPIRING WORDS on spontaneous sound design.
DISCOVERIES by Titus Levi CYCLING WITH MUSIKAUTOMATIKA AND BURSTING CASCADES from Jacky Schreiber.
INSIDE THE MUSIC by Dave Stewart RHYTHM PROGRAMMING FROM CLICK TO SURDO-BUT NOT before Dave takes the precaution of copyrighting a well-known triad.
CREATIVE OPTIONS by Connor Freff Cochran AN INTREPID BUT PENNILESS TEENAGER LEARNS AN INVALUABLE lesson from one of his idols in the lobby of a fancy restaurant.
Steinberg Cubasis Mac sequencing software
Korg Pandora PX1 guitar multi-fx processor.
Reveal WAVExtreme32 wavetable soundcard for PC.
Roland MC-303 classic simulator / real-time composer
Samson Mixpad 9 compact mixer
Kurzweil K2500X VAST workstation
Mastering on a budget Which is the best format Compact Cassette, DCC, MiniDisc or DAT?
Fostex XR3 multitracker
Akai Riff-O-Matic phrase sampler
E-mu E4K sampling workstation
Retro: Korg MS-20 monosynth
Sample CDs sound-crammed discs
CD Central song-crammed discs
Goldie and the Metalne. The former graffiti-artist is drum'n'bass' biggest star but we talk to the Metalhead who really makes the music of Timeless tick.
Motiv8. Steve Rodway is pumping up the work of everyone who's cool: St Etienne, Pulp, Dubstar. This is how he does it
Emergency Broadcast Network. They supplied the videos for U2's Zooropa tour. They've created the ultimate CD/CD- ROM. They are weeeird. This is not a test.
Wanted dead or alive. We've been wanting to say this for ages. This month's Wanted dead or alive artists are wait for it... Dead Or Alive. Tee hee.
Downtime. Jingle jangle starry spangle walnut sick exquisite starfish. It can only be the Cocteau Twins and our questionnaire.
Better beats. The concluding part of our drum programming series. This month, the tinsel, the tassles, the essential sparkly bits.
Recording vocals. What spoils most demo tapes? The vocal. So here's everything you need to prepare, record and mix the perfect performance.
REVIEWS
Behringer Dualfex II Enhancer by Paul White
Yamaha CBX-KIXG Keyboard by Derek Johnson
Rolls DI Box & Mic Preamp by Paul White
Midiman Mixers by Paul White
AVI Neutron Monitor Speakers by Paul White
Sound Forge Editor For PC by Dennis Miller
Lexicon PCM90 Digital Reverb by Paul White
Soundtracs Topaz Project 8 Mixer with Automation by Paul White
Roland XP80 Workstation by Paul Nagle
Akai DR16 Digital Multitrack by David Mellor
Quasimidi Cyber 6 Keyboard by Paul Ward
Yamaha DB50XG PC Daughter Board by Panicos Georghiades & Gabriel Jacobs
Mackie Ultramix Mix Automation System by Bernhard Speyer
Feature
Keith Barr of Alesis by Paul White
Guy Sigsworth & Björk by Paul Tingen
lan Catt & St Etienne by Richard Clews
How To Become A Record Producer Part 5: by David Mellor
ARP Axxe & Little Brother Retrospective by Derek Johnson
Computer notes
Atari Notes
PC Notes
Amiga Notes
Apple Notes
SOUND WORKSHOPS
Faderless Mixing Techniques Craig Anderton & Paul White
Mastering Your Own CD By Mike Collins
Curing Your Mix by Paul White
Salvaging Archive Recordings by Paul White
All About Metering by Paul White
Sample Shop Paul Farrer and Paul White pass judgment on a new batch of sample CDs and CD-ROMs.
Regulars
Crosstalk More of your problems solved by our experts.
Shape Of Things To Come Derek Johnson & Debbie Poyser deliver more leading edge news from the hi-tech music and recording world.
Sounding Off Hard disk recording will lead you astray, warns music journalist Rikky Rooksby.
RUBY
HOT TRACKIN' WITH MARK WALK AND LESLEY RANKINE: What put their first CD over the top was their no-holds-barred approach in the studio. They plugged garbage mics into a Pro Tools system, cut and spliced shamelessly, jammed their own loops, scrounged the thrift stores for old vinyl, and man- gled the results with Turbosynth.
MASTER CLASS: TOM COSTER ON SYNTH COMPING HOW DO YOU BUILD EXCITEMENT BEHIND A SOLOIST? For some hands-on tips, we turned to Tom Coster, whose comping chops were honed in his years with Carlos Santana. If the musical examples whet your appetite, there's more on our Web site!
PROG ROCK ON THE INTERNET
IT'S NOT DEAD, IT'S RESTIN'! THE TRADITION OF INTRICATE time signatures and extended song forms pioneered in the '70s by Genesis and Yes is being carried on today by scads of talented bands, who persevere in the face of record in- dustry inertia. Want to find out who they are, where to buy their latest CDs, what the fans are thinking? An expert opens the door.
DIGITAL DYSFUNCTIONS
CLEAN SUCKS. BY TOSSING OUT THE RULE BOOK AND deliberately playing fast and loose with your data, you can discover a sonic vocabulary that your mom would never approve of. Chris Grigg of Negativland offers some tantalizing hints on how to torment your samples until they jump up and run away screaming.
SOUNDS. SPECTRASONICS' HEART OF AFRICA, THE MUSEUM OF SYNTHESIZER Technology's Astral Ambience, and Back In Time's Technopolis.
ROLAND RD-500 DIGITAL PIANO.
ALESIS ADAT XT DIGITAL 8-TRACK TAPE RECORDER.
SONY DPS-V77 MULTI-EFFECTS PROCESSOR.
ALESIS DM5 PERCUSSION TONE MODULE.
E-MU E4K KEYBOARD-BASED DIGITAL SAMPLER.
BUYER'S GUIDE UPDATE BETTER LATE THAN NEVER: CHART LISTINGS FOR THE WALDORF WAVE, MicroWave, Pulse, and PulsePlus.
LETTERS
AN INADVERTENT LOBE-OTOMY, THE QUEST FOR BALANCE, SOME knights who say "ney," standing up for the Mac, and the continuing saga of the search for service.
WORLD VIEW
ROBERT O'SULLIVAN DISCOVERS THE WONDERS OF BOOGIE-WOOGIE, Stereolab does the Farfisa shuffle, Rob Brown indulges himself, Guy Sigsworth looks back on Björk, Johnny Otis swings hard, and Amp Fiddler comes in for a landing.
INTERFACE
ENSONIQ'S MR BUSTS OUT OF THE RACK, AARDVARK SIMULATES analog tape, and Voce puts the squeeze on tubes. New on sampling CDs; big grand pianos and Gary Wright, plus grinders, lathes, beatboxes, and a whole lot more. Robert Lauriston looks at QuickTime MIDI and charts the memory drop. Also, ADAT tape management, two ways to beat the dynamo hum, new DATS, and Kyma workstation upgrades.
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING by Craig Anderton
CAN'T TELL WHICH PIN IS HOT? LOST YOUR BALANCE ENTIRELY? DON'T tip over. Instead, read this lucid explanation of what balanced and unbalanced electrical connections are all about, from TRS to XLR.
SOLO PIANO by Fred Hersch
LET YOUR LEFT HAND DO THE WALKING: EXPLORE THE WORLD OF walking bass lines by stepping and skipping through the changes of a Charlie Parker classic.
REEL WORLD by Jeff Rona
AS HIS WORK ON WHITE SQUALL PROGRESSED, OUR HOLLYWOOD reporter found himself grappling with ocarina solos, trans-Atlantic cartage, and drastically shortened scenes.
COMPOSING by Richard Leiter
HOW MANY WAYS CAN YOU THINK OF TO MAKE A MELODY MEM- orable? Here are some fresh approaches, from shifting accents and non- sense syllables to the whispering of the muse.
MUSICMEDIA by Bob Safir
A CASE STUDY: WHEN YOU'RE WRITING SONGS FOR A CD-ROM, CHORD voicings are likely to be the least of your worries. Care to demo your tunes over the telephone? And can the actors sing a note?
JINSIDE THE MUSIC by Dave Stewart
MICHAEL JACKSON ACQUIRES A NEW DANCING PARTNER — AFTER which, in a brilliant segue, Dave adds some hand drum and Wavestation string tracks to his latest opus.
DISCOVERIES by Titus Levi
THIS MONTH'S SPOTLIGHT SPLASH IS ON STEVE JANIS OF BLOOD SKY, but CDs and tapes from Argentina, Germany, and Texas also rated scrutiny.
CREATIVE OPTIONS by Connor Freff Cochran
WITH THE AID OF A BEAR FETISH AND A WEDDING RING, ARCHIMEDES meets Pebbles and Bam-Bam. Well, I would not feel so all alone....
Ensoniq Soundscape Elite PC wavetable soundcard
Ubi Soft Guitar Hits Vol 1 guitar tutor for the PC
Steinberg Tekknotron PC CD-ROM
E-mu Orbit a module from The Dance Planet
Samson MPL 1640 budget 4-buss mixer
Musicator Audio sequencer/audio recorder
Jungle MIDI files drum 'n' bass hits the floppy disk
Spirit Folio SX British, flexible mixing
Roland XP-80 the latest Roland synth
TC Electronic M2000 classy, quality, pro-effects
Steinberg WaveLab sample editing the German way
Retro: The theremin the mother of all synths
Dubstar.Making themselves the usual cups of tea when the doorbell strangely rang... It was FM calling for this exclusive interview.
Pop Will Eat Itself. A new sound and studio but the PWEI atti- tude remains the same. Find out how they put the pop in poppy...
Meat Beat Manifesto. Jack Dangers: the world's Roland System 100M expert, back with a new album and some shopping stories.
Wanted dead or alive. Doing a feature on Can can result in using the word 'can' a lot. Can we get it out of the way here before the feature then? Course we can.
Downtime Howie B who he? The man who's worked with more stars than The Lord God. Almighty in his Creation phase, that's who.
Drum squash. How to used a compressor to give your drum sounds more clout.
RECORDABLE CD TECHNOLOGY AS PRICES PLUMMET, ONE-OFF DEMO CDS BECOME A REAL possibility for musicians. But are our special requirements being ignored by manufacturers eager to cultivate the large multimedia market? Check out Keyboard's hands-on report on the new drive mechanisms, bundled mastering software, and disc com- patibility issues.
FRONT LINE ASSEMBLY GET HARD WIRED: BILL LEEB AND RHYS FULBER CRANK up the voltage on a no-compromise shock wave of slammin' industrial-strength synths and samplers. But what happened to all those analog bass patches?
CAJUN ACCORDION JAMBALAYA LEARN ABOUT A SPICY ROOTS-ORIENTED STYLE FROM EXPERTS Jim Boggio, Steve Riley, and C. J. Chenier, and take a quick Louisiana two-step through these Cajun and zydeco rhythms and lead licks.
MICHAEL TILSON THOMAS IN A WIDE-RANGING, ERUDITE CONVERSATION, THE NEW conductor of the San Francisco Symphony explains why all of classical music - except Mozart-derives from the position of the hand on the piano keyboard.
TIMING RESPONSE GETTING TIGHT GROOVES IN MULTITIMBRAL SEQUENCING can be a lot tougher than just hitting the 'quantize' button. We tested a dozen popular synths to determine exactly how fast or slow they are at playing densely tracked music, and also polled the experts for practical tips on how to squeeze better performance out of your existing rig.
THE MOOG COOKBOOK ARE YOU READY FOR TWERPY, TWEEZY SYNTH COVERS OF grunge rock hits? Roger Manning (formerly of Jellyfish) hopes so. He also offers a few choice words on how cyclical fashion trends can hang an artist out to dry.
Keyboard Reports
SOUNDS The Ultimate Piano Collection, Techno Toolbox, and Minimoog Classics.
ALESIS QS6 Multitimbral synthesizer.
Departments
LETTERS Trinity trivia, Mirage fantasies, Keefus is a keeper, too much Ulf, sanitizing John Lennon, and pregnant thoughts on sampling.
WORLD VIEW Yes jams all the way to the bank, life after Stevie Ray, Japanese jazz-pop sensation Hiroko, and brain-dead with Numb.
INTERFACE Late-breaking bulletins from Frankfurt include a Kawai additive workstation, new dance machines from E-mu, Novation, and Roland, MiniDisc multitracks, Steinberg's Virtual Studio, and much more.
COMPOSING by Richard Leiter Delaying the inevitable? When you're working your way around a chord progression, getting there is at least half the fun.
IN REVIEW by Jim Aikin Techno turbulence from BT and THC, hot jazz from Tom Coster and Cornelius Kreusch, and whacked-out experiments from the Shaking Ray Levis.
SOLO PIANO by Fred Hersch Once you've got your left hand around these sevenths and tenths, you'll be ready to drop them strategically under right-hand lines.
QUESTIONS by David Battino Resonant filter sweeps from a Korg 01/W? Never say never. Also, chip avail- ability, calculating tempos, and cross-platform sample problems.
OTHER WINDOWS by Jim Aikin Maybe there's a reason why they called it The Sound of Music, not The Notes of Music.
INSIDE THE MUSIC by Dave Stewart There's more to rhythm programming than kick and snare - - even if you're starting from a General MIDI kit.
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING by Craig Anderton Going tapeless? You'll have to choose between computer-based and stand- alone systems, and wrestle with your backup storage needs.
REEL WORLD by Jeff Rona What does a composer have to go through to get a major film score in the can? Jeff's White Squall diary continues.
DISCOVERIES by Titus Levi Power pop from philosophy majors Allison With One, plus a little tape music from Martin Hall, Paul Campbell, and James Smith.
CREATIVE OPTIONS by Connor Freff Cochran You may not always be able to get what you think you want, but if you try some time you might find that actions speak louder than words.
Dreamwaves Wavestation Patches soundcards for the Korg Wavestation
Steinberg Music Sales MusicMaker multimedia tutor for the PC
Peak Audio Tools Apple Mac sample editor
Novation DrumStation retro sounds and control in a new unit
Samson PL 1602 budget 16-channel mixer
Roland PMA-5 pocket-sized composing thing
Mackie CR1604-VLZ the classic mixer gets an overhaul
Roland A-90 a big, black and masterful keyboard
Fostex D-80 well-hard disk recording in a rackmount
Tascam 424MkI upgraded, up-for-it multitracking
Steinberg Cubase Audio XT another release and the family explained
Digidesign Audiomedia III PC HD recording in session
Retro: OSC OSCar a swan song for the ugly duckling
Orbital. We were wandering along a beach last Bank. Holiday and bumped into the Hartnoll Brothers. So we did this great interview!
Photek. Jungle is taking over the world and Photek is one of the leading lights. Switch on, tune in and read this...
Bruno Brookes. The ex-Radio 1 DJ has invested a fortune in state-of-the-art equipment. And Rolf Harris was there too! Rolf bleedin' Harris!
Wanted dead or alive. Focus wrote House of the King, as used by Don't Ask Me, a 70s' science forum starring Magnus Pyke. But what other beardy won- ders did these Dutch proggers get up to?
Downtime: The Mission. The band's Wayne Hussey on fatherhood, football, underage girls, and Disney's The Lion King. Yep, that's right...
How to produce jungle. You asked for it. Part 1 of a drum 'n' bass special. This month looking at drum pro- gramming and effects
Climbing the EQ curve Extra bass here? A bit of treble there? We tell you what, where and how much
NEW BANDS, OLD GEAR
IT'S NOT JUST FOR TECHNO ANYMORE: A NEW GENER- ation of rockers is finding that the in-your-face wail of a quirky, unstable analog oscillator testifies in a way that no too-clever- by-half digital workstation can hope to. If you can't find (or don't trust) the real thing, check out our sidebars on analog sampling CDs and digital simulations. And don't miss the his- torical photos in the rogue's gallery!
PRIVATE LESSON: GONZALO RUBALCABA
IN A FREE-WHEELING CONVERSATION, THE CUBAN JAZZ piano phenomenon explains how his quartet spices up a classic Dizzy Gillespie tune, sheds a little light on Cuban music through history, and explores the dimensions of dynamics.
ADRIAN UTLEY OF PORTISHEAD
A JAZZ GUITAR REFUGEE FORTIFIES HIMSELF WITH "EXCES- sively noisy old fuzz boxes" and discovers beats in Bristol.
LOVE THE ONE YOU'VE BOUGHT
SURE, PICKING UP A NEW SYNTH IS A QUICK TICKET TO Inspirationville. But don't overlook the hidden possibilities in that axe that's gathering dust in the corner.
GIVEAWAY
KICK YOUR STUDIO INTO HIGH GEAR WITH THIS POWERFUL hardware/software package from Opcode and Apple.
HAROLD CHICHESTER OF THE AFGHAN WHIGS THEY DON'T REHEARSE, BUT HAROLD WILL DROP INTO a Stevie Wonder tribute on Clavinet at the drop of a whig- er, hat. Even so, his guitar work in Howlin' Maggie is closer to his heart.
SERGE MODULAR
THE STRADIVARIUS OF ANALOG SYNTHS IS ALIVE AND WELL in downtown Oakland, thanks to Rex Probe and his intrepid crew of solder jockeys.
SOUNDS Best Service Dance Megadrums and Masterbits Rave Trax sampling CDs.
EMAGIC LOGIC AUDIO Integrated sequencer/digital audio recorder/notation editor.
ROLAND VS-880 Stand-alone hard disk recorder.
LETTERS
Michael Jackson fans flame Dave Stewart, a Digitech rep clears up some confusion, SMF download woes, a manual writer seeking respect, and Web-crawling proggers give us the http://.
WORLD VIEW
Doug Katsaros is scratchin' for the Tick, Mulgrew Miller refines his identity, Howard Jones blows a solo on the VL1, Tommy Lee jams with Pro Tools, Dale Ockerman is back on Doobie street, and Renee Rosnes has Canada swinging. Plus news from all over.
INTERFACE
TDM plug-ins from TC Electronic, Waves, QSound Labs, Intelligent De- vices, and Synchro Arts, low-cost MIDI keyboards from Kaysound and Midiman, mixers from TASCAM, Spirit, and Rolls, amps from Barbetta and JBL, plus processors, furniture, and much more!
IN REVIEW by Jim Aikin
Time travellers, aliens from another galaxy, jazz banjo, chamber music with sampler and electric guitar, and a grand piano bowed with popsicle sticks.
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING by Craig Anderton
Sometimes the best approach to digital recording is to skip the hard disk and tape entirely in favor of RAM. If nothing else, you'll have at lot more tracks than you thought.
INSIDE THE MUSIC by Dave Stewart
Desperate for a kind word, Dave makes up several laudatory letters from readers before turning to a chart inspired by a classic Byrds hit.
MUSICMEDIA by Bob Safir
Macintosh users, take note: From batch file processors to Pro Tools plug- ins, the tool kit of multimedia audio editing solutions is growing rapidly.
COMPOSING by Richard Leiter
Don't think you need a guitar track? Think again. Can't find a real guitarist who can cut it? Try sequencing these licks.
SOLO PIANO by Fred Hersch
Sometimes the best way to improve your playing is to give your fingers a rest, sit back, and open your ears. Fred supplies the Q-Tips.
CREATIVE OPTIONS by Connor Freff Cochran
Sometimes Occam's Razor shaves a little too close for comfort. Like when you're taking X-ray photos of a comet.
Analog & Digital Culture soundcard for the Roland JV-1080
Yamaha YST-M15 powered multimedia speakers
Korg PHC-11/12 Korg Prophecy soundcards
Yamaha CS1x analogue-style control synth for £600
Phonic MM122 a pint-sized mixer's secrets spilled
Head-to-head: Mac audio sequencers The big four recorders lined up
Mutronics Mutator filter and envelope in a handy box
Tascam MD-801R MiniDisc enters the pro-audio arena
Round-up: compressors budget compressors get squeezed
Mackie mixers the rest of Mackie's new range assessed
Soundscape v1.17 and 1.18 the lastest versions of the PC HDR
Retro: vocoders how those weird vocal effects were produced and what's around to do the same
Sample CDs snippets of sounds
CD Central songs of sounds
u-ziq
The first of our hat-trick of exclusive inter- views and CD tracks comes from Mike Paradinas, aka Jake Slazenger and μ-ziq. Will the real Mike please stand up?
The Black Dog
Ken Downie rarely speaks to the press, let alone gives them CD tracks. He's done both for us. We're great, we are.
Salt Tank A Top 40 hit has launched this lot into the public eye. 'About time too', we say. They give us our third exclusive words and tune.
Wanted dead or alive
Everyone liked The Associates' stuff but few knew who did it. That's why they don't exist anymore and that's why they're here
Downtime: Kitaro
Japan's other musical offering (apart from YMO, Ken Ishii and the English band with the same name) gets all mystical on us
How to produce jungle, part 2 Here's how to put the bass in drum 'n' bass and how to splice with ReCycle!
Black Magic boxes
Exciters. Now there's a cue for some obvious innuendo. Not us. Here's how aural exciters can make your sounds orgasm.
SOUND REVIEWS
SAMPLER FIENDS HAVE NEVER HAD MORE CHOICES IN SOUNDWARE. We rounded up more than 30 CDs and CD-ROMs and clamped on the headphones. Whether you're searching for Native American chants or Keith Emerson's Moog, we'll steer you to what's hot and caution you about what's not so hot. A complete list of contact phone numbers and Web sites for sound manufacturers is on page 42.
JAZZ B-3 BASH
LEGENDARY ORGANIST CHARLES EARLAND AND INCENDIARY NEW- comer Larry Goldings share some secrets of pedal technique and re- harmonization, trade low-down blues choruses, and spin lusty tales of lifting large objects.
HOT TIPS: CLAVIA NORD LEAD
THE NORD IS THE LATEST WORD IN POLYPHONIC "ANALOG" SOUND. Join our expert clinician as he probes the mysteries of multi mode and the arpeggiator.
PULP
JARVIS IS GRABBING THE HEADLINES, AND CANDIDA DOYLE IS HAPPY to let him. She may be shy in the spotlight, but her keyboard parts add a lot to Pulp's fiction.
THE BAND
IN THE LATE '60S THEY BACKED BOB DYLAN, BUT THAT SOULFUL roots rock sound never gets stale. Second keyboardist Richard Bell talks about how he fits in beside Garth Hudson and the difficulties of pitch-bending with a pedal.
Keyboard Reports
AKAI S2000 Rack-mount digital sampler.
Departments
LETTERS A tale of woe that will bring tears of pity and recognition to any sampler owner's eyes. Plus a fresh look at Windows CD-R software, MIDI timing delays, and the notes-vs.-sounds debate.
WORLD VIEW A tasty Japanese sampler duo, Finnish Beach Boys with a Farfisa, the ever- flowing Styx, the restoration of the Cure, comic book soundtracks with Sukia, and more.
INTERFACE New boards from Mackie, Rolls, and Spirit, audio editing from Sonic Foundry, studio furniture from Omnirax, speakers from Tannoy, effects from Digitech, plus updates, a guitar amp, and Robert Lauriston's inside info on the Cyrix/ Intel slugfest.
IN REVIEW by Jim Aikin Wahnfried goes into a trance, Marc Puricelli stakes out some shade, Higher Intelligence Agency casts loose, and Quartango takes Beethoven to Argentina.
OTHER WINDOWS by Jim Aikin Is it a mystery? Or is somebody getting away with murder? Put on your wading boots as we step into the same Nile twice.
COMPOSING by Richard Leiter More practical tips for making your sequenced tracks sound as if you've got a guitarist in the band.
INSIDE THE MUSIC by Dave Stewart
Can samplers be used in prog rock? Take a swing through the loop jungle with guest expert Andy Reynolds.
MUSICMEDIA by Bob Safir Plenty of laser lights and fast action at the Electronic Entertainment Expo. On the music side... well, can you say "multimedia air guitar"?
SOLO PIANO by Fred Hersch The basics of the bossa nova-a loping bass line, guitar strums, and a singing melody come together in a classic tune by Luiz Bonfa.
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING by Craig Anderton Getting a great take onto the ADAT or hard drive is only the first step. What do you do with the DAT master? Craig offers some real-world marketing advice for digital musicians.
REEL WORLD by Jeff Rona The squall White Squall, that is gradually dies down, but not until the final mixing session, during which musical changes are still being made in the score.
DISCOVERIES by Titus Levi Steve Albrecht goes west and Duane Frybarger takes the high road. Plus, where to find Discoveries alumni on the Web.
CREATIVE OPTIONS by Connor Freff Cochran Free association takes a great leap forward with the aid of some idea-stirring software: Find out who's the MANIC MIDI LOON.
Letters
Right on target with Roland synthesizers; The VS-880 helps a reader produce top- quality demos; Building a studio from the ground up, starting with an A-30 and JV-880.
Random Noise
Record your CD while on tour with the Rolling Stones? Why not? Andy Snitzer did; Tom Barabas' Mosaic; exploratory post-bop with Rodney Jones; mmmmm Yum Yum; Gloria Estefan's keyboardist and co-producer Clay Ostwald.
Currents
At the Centennial Olympic Games with music director Mark Watters; Roland's new FaxBack system; Roland's PMA-5 shows up on "The X-Files"; Street Life shoots some three-pointers; Roland's updated Web site; Tons of new Demo Videos; A profile of Spotted Peccary Studios; Free software when you buy an XP-10; International Robotics and Roland's VT-1; "Mostly Music" at the Pacific Science Center.
Fall Clinics, Roland Days and Special Events Schedule
Want to see the latest and greatest Roland gear, demonstrated by those who know it best? Check out our Fall Schedule to see when we'll be in your home town.
Equipment Check
In-depth looks at Roland's new GT-5 Guitar Effects Processor, the complete line of Roland Expansion Boards and the KC-300 and KC-500 Keyboard Amplifiers.
BOSS Hardware
BOSS' revolutionary Guitar Effects Processor, the GT-5; Three hot new pedals: SYB-3 Bass Synthesizer, XT-2 Xtortion and PW-2 Power Driver.
Roland Hardware
Get Groovin' with the MC-303 Groove Box; The new KC-300 will amplify your keyboards and more; Arrange 'till your heart's content with the RA-800 Realtime Arranger; The DJ-70MKII Sampling Workstation puts dance music production right at your fingertips; Roland's new SR-Series Sound Reinforcement products, LVC-1N Lyrics Video Converter and MA-8 Stereo Micro Monitors.
Electronic Musicianship
Descend into the depths of the groove as Ryeland Allison shows you just what's up with Dance music-and the tools available from Roland to really get it kickin'!
Hands On
Worried about leaving your instruments at home when you go on the road? Doug Hanson takes a PMA-5 Personal Music Assistant and you along on his vacation.
Electronic Musicianship
Guitar Synthesis is alive and well. Craig Anderton shows you all the cool things a Roland guitar synth can do while you're playing your own guitar.
Understanding Technology
How did a vintage tube fanatic from Seattle get turned on to Roland's BluesCubes? David Bristol gives you the scoop.
Power Tools
Just when you thought the VS-880 couldn't get any better... It does! Just add a VS8F-1 Expansion Board.
Roland SuperStore
Check out our new videos as well as all the CD-ROM's, Sound Cards, Clothing, Posters, etc. you could ever want.
REVIEWS
Audix OM-3xb Microphone
TL Audio Indigo C2021 Compressor
Aphex 109 Parametric EQ
Studio Electronics ATC1 Analogue Synth Module
Yamaha VL70m Physical Modelling Module
BIAS Peak Audio Editor (Mac)
Digitech Studio Twin Effects
Sony DPSV77 Multi-Effects
Viscount EFX10 Multi-Effects
Yamaha MD4 Digital 4-Tracker
Marshall JFX1 Guitar
Effects Processor
Opcode Vision v2.5 (PC)
MOTU Digital Performer v1.7 (Mac)
Roland A90/A90EX Expandable MIDI Controller
ART Dual MP & Pro MPA Preamps
Access Microwave & Matrix 1000 Programmers
Tascam 424 MkII Portastudio
FEATURES
School Of Audio Engineering: The First 20 Years
The Prodigy
Courtney Pine
Kitaro
Retrozone: Roland Jupiter 6 Synthesizer
SOUND WORKSHOPS
Creative Applications Of Your Mixer Busses
Making The Most Of Synthesizer Sample RAM With Your Mac
Gate Effect Techniques
Creating Custom Sample Textures
REGULARS
Crosstalk
Shape Of Things To Come
Sample Shop
PLUGGED!
IT WAS TECHNO HEAVEN ON EARTH AS EIGHT TOP ELECTRO-DANCE bands gathered at Organic '96 for two days of hi-tech bliss. Performers included The Orb, Orbital, Meat Beat Manifesto, Chemical Brothers, Underworld, Loop Guru, Electric Skychurch, and Oversoul 7. Keyboard road-tripped to the Southland, talked turkey with the principals, and came back with a severe case of dust lung.
MASTER CLASS WITH BILL PAYNE
FROM STADIUM ANTHEMS TO HEARTTHROB BALLADS, BILL PAYNE'S rock piano virtuosity is ubiquitous. In between the release of a new Little Feat album and a major tour with Bob Seger, Payne spent a day with Keyboard and revealed some secrets of his keyboard wizardry, life as an L.A. session ace, and what makes Feat beat.
COLDCUT
THEY'VE SHEPHERDED MANY A SLAMMIN' DANCE TRACK, BUT Coldcut's Matt Black and Jonathan More have much more than pro- duction chops on their plate. They run a record label, a multi-faceted studio complex... and wait 'til you get a load of their synth collection.
BLACK CROWES
HE'S PLAYED WITH BLUES GREATS JAMES COTTON AND ALBERT Collins, but for the past few years keyboardist Eddie Harsch has been flying with the Black Crowes. In this poolside chat, Harsch gives Keyboard the inside dope on the making of the new Crowes platter, and then some.
Keyboard Reports
SOUNDS
E-mu's Dance 2000 and Heavy Guitars CD-ROMs, and the debut sample col- lection from Rarefaction.
QUASIMIDI RAVEN Techno synthesizer/workstation.
TC ELECTRONICS M2000 Dual-engine effects processor.
BARBETTA SONA Keyboard combo amplifiers.
Departments
LETTERS Defenders of digital speak out, more flames on the CD-R front, a red-tape tale in Toronto, and a response from E-mu.
WORLD VIEW Fishbone takes the Theremin plunge, inside Vegas's new hi-tech attraction, jungle goes primetime, avoiding the musicians from hell, and road stories from Gabe McNair of No Doubt.
INTERFACE The weather in Music City U.S.A. may not have been too cooperative, but that didn't stop us from getting the scoop on the hits of Nashville NAMM. Check our lineup of hot synths, cool effects processors, Mini Disc recorders, maxi price breakthroughs, software face-lifts, and hardware face-offs.
IN REVIEW by Jim Aikin Electric Skychurch serves up a double dose, Robert Rich and Lisa Moskow take their sweet time, and Leeb and Fulber strike again... twice.
COMPOSING by Richard Leiter One night, years ago, Richard settled into a Naughahyde lounger and had an epiphany. In this exciting installment, he relives his mind-altering episode. Get back!
REEL WORLD by Jeff Rona Breaking into the biz- Jeff goes on-line this month and takes a hack at the FAQ (er, most Frequently Asked Question).
INSIDE THE MUSIC by Dave Stewart Stuck in a musical rut? We've all been there a time or three... even the mighty Dave Stewart. Here he tells how Eggman Dirk "Mont" Campbell came to the rescue.
DISCOVERIES by Titus Levi What do dead white guys and this month's Discoveries have in common? Titus spotlights the work of Glenn Meade and Steffen Presley (both of whom are very much alive and well, thank you).
SOLO PIANO by Fred Hersch Reharmonization is the focus this time around as Fred dives into the Billy Strayhorn standard "Lush Life."
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING by Craig Anderton Ready to turn that home computer into a digital audio workstation? You might want to read this column first.
CREATIVE OPTIONS by Connor Freff Cochran The pleasure in pain leave it to Connor to turn a series of hospital visits into an excellent adventure.
PC Dance Tools sample CD-ROM
Zoom 505 guitar multi-effects processor
Twiddly Bits Volume Seven MIDI file programmer's toolkit
Yamaha MD4 MiniDisc: the future of multitracking?
Korg N364 exclusive on Korg's latest workstation
Cakewalk Pro Audio v5 update of the PC sequencer with audio
Alesis NanoVerb teeny-tiny budget reverb
TL Audio Indigo EQS valve equalisers worth paying more for
Head-to-head: micro mixers the best little mixers lined up
Yamaha SW60XG another soundcard wonder
Digitech Studio 400 more effects wonders
Musicware Nightingale serious scoring package for the Mac
Retro: Roland Juno 106 about time too, I hear you say.
Sample CDs need some sounds?
CD Central need some songs?
OMD
18 years on and Andy McCluskey is still produc- ing OMD hits. Read about the new, and possibly the last ever Manoeuvres album
Electronic
Johnny Marr doesn't just play guitar. He's one of the main men behind Electronic, the band that are still putting the technology into pop
CJ Bolland
He's been threatening to take on The Prodigy and The Chemical Brothers in the techno wars. And this time it might just work
Harold Budd
The master of moody mayhem mooches in for a marvellous and marginally mysterious mutter
Wanted dead or alive
He's all over the early Peter Gabriel albums. His Synergy albums knock most 70s synthcraft for six. So where did Larry Fast disappear to?
Patchbays
You may think they're boring, but they can turn that mess of studio spaghetti into an ordered and efficient working system. Here's how.
Downtime: Roger Eno
Another victim answers the questions that matter
Noise: taking the hiss
How to get rid of one of life's certainties. And we're not talking about navel fluff
DE LA SOUL
IT'S NOT ABOUT DAISIES, BUT IT'S NOT JUST BAD ATTITUDE EITHER. Maseo talks straight about the evolving message of De La, and explains how they put together their beats. Plus, an insider's look at the pro- duction of Stakes Is High from engineer Tim Latham.
THE MAKING OF A REMIX
SIT BEHIND THE BOARD WITH GEORGIE PORGIE AND THE CHICAGO Music Plant team while they work their studio magic on a dance remix of a Michael Jackson hit. From 2" reels to an SP-1200, they've got what it takes.
JOHN MEDESKI
A POWER TRIO FOR THE '90S, WITH HOT JAZZ AND GROOVE ACTION from bass, drums, and a furry orange Hammond organ, not to mention a little real Clavinet and Wurly.
GIANT STEPS
IF YOU WANT TO UNDERSTAND THE ESSENCE OF MODERN JAZZ, strap on some seven-league boots with pianist Andy LaVerne, who dissects a classic John Coltrane tune and shows how to solo over the changes.
ROBERT RICH
AMBIENT MUSIC GETS AN INFUSION OF ELECTRONIC ENERGY FROM this experimental explorer. What do effects feedback and just in- tonation have in common? If you answered "glurp," advance to Go and collect $200.
Keyboard Reports
SOUNDS Keith Emerson CD-ROM for Ensoniq samplers, Kurzweil alternate ROM blocks.
YAMAHA MD4 Multitrack MiniDisc recorder.
INVISION CYBERSOUND VS Software-based synth/sequencer (Macintosh).
MACKIE CR1604-VLZ 16-channel mixer.
ROLAND DJ-70mkll Dance-oriented workstation.
WALDORF PULSE Monophonic analog rack-mount synthesizer.
Departments
LETTERS Not all sounds are on CD, analog bites but it's easier than digital, the dis- appearing loaner, it's natural to be flat, the perils of gear lust, and a word from the piano man.
WORLD VIEW Severed heads down under, the edgy republic of Saffron, time for the Time, dancing on the billboard, a synth that does not speak, and getting your copyright right, right? Plus late-breaking news from all over.
INTERFACE Hot new plug-ins for TDM and Soundscape, audio packing from Emagic, a new MOTU Timepiece, an alternate MIDI controller from E-mu, plus assorted updates, monitors, and the end of the Zip wars (maybe).
SOLO PIANO by Fred Hersch Unless you play piano with a tennis ball, these simple exercises can open up a whole new world of tone and expression when you sit down at the keyboard.
COMPOSING by Richard Leiter A buck, a mark, a yen, or a pound-whether you're writing jingles, film scores, or your own angst-ridden punk CDs, it's nice to know where the money comes in.
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING by Craig Anderton There's just an off-chance that your home studio isn't equipped with a fully automated mixer. But don't despair-these tips will help you grab the right mix and keep it.
REEL WORLD by Jeff Rona When you move from the big screen to the little one, and from a two-hour epic to a 30-second spot, some things get real different - but some things stay the same.
INSIDE THE MUSIC by Dave Stewart Have drums been beaten to death? Our intrepid correspondent offers some alternate ways to add rhythmic vitality to your tracks, and explains why the bendir says "doum"!
CREATIVE OPTIONS by Connor Freff Cochran What do Catherine the Great, Humphrey Bogart, Newt Gingrich, Cary Grant, "Ripley's Believe It Or Not," and a poodle in a microwave all have in common?
Longwave Instruments Pocket Theremin weird, spooky and portable noises
Digitech RP-12 guitar multi-effects to stamp on
Newtronic MIDI Gates & Arpeggio Kit MIDI file effects and arpeggios
Head-to-head: nearfield monitors the best monitors on test
E-mu Launch Pad a MIDI controller with a difference
Tascam DA-38 the latest digital multitrack tested
Yamaha P50m fancy some new joanna sounds?
Panasonic SV-3800 so much DAT power for not so much dosh
Digitech VTP-1 the valve sound gets affordable
Opcode Vision for Windows the famous sequencer gets the PC look
Retro: Linn drum machines early beat boxes back in vogue
Sample CDs the latest samples rated
CD Central the latest songs rated
Underworld
Band of the Summer. Boy. Born Slippy. Boy. Read it here. Boy. Now. Boy. And not a mention of lager anywhere. Probably...
Source Direct...
Drum 'n' bass stars are getting younger and younger. Here's a couple of successful young tikes proferring advice on how you can do it too
Spooky
1993 techno boys (remember Gargantuan?) turned 1996 sample maniacs. Find out about the sounds they found for Found Sound...
Reel 2 Real
The man behind the masters of chart pop reveals the secrets of Reel-ly big success...
Wanted dead or alive
Here's one we've been after for ages. Remember the haircuts from A Flock Of Seagulls? They no longer exist, but the band does. Hot news here!
The Art of Signal to Noise
Clever title, eh? Basically, this is all about how to avoid all those nasty noise glitches when you master your music digitally
Skint software sequencing
How do you get sequencing for less than 300 quid? Find out here
Valves explained
The best ways to get that lurverly warm valve sound across your music...
Future Music Favorite 50
The best gear in our history is listed in chart order. What is the most magnificent mixer? Which speakers made us sizzle? And, most important of all, what will be the coveted number one spot?
50 Great CSs
50 Top Studio Tips
A potted history of computing
Back issues
If you’ve missed one of the first 49 issues, you may be able to find it here
Future Music Index
A guide to just about everything which has ever appeared in Future Music over the past four years. The artis, the review, the tutorial, the retro. What we did and when we did it.
LETTERS A notch in the Nord, hard drive horror stories, waiting for updates, a forgotten hardware mod, MC lust, and Barbie gets a back-to-school outfit.
WORLD VIEW Wriggling with the eels, jolting with Juno Reactor, a photo op in Nashville, up front with Frente, drawing blood with Type O Negative, Noah Adams starts from scratch, Cluster keeps it simple, and the Mavericks hit the road.
IN REVIEW by Jim Aikin Think Tank puts on the pointy ears, Tom McDermott takes Bach to New Orleans, the battling Johansson brothers duke it out with Allan Holdsworth, Paul Haslinger breaks all the rules, and David Bagsby has an adventure in ornithology. Plus flesh-eating disco zombies!
REEL WORLD by Jeff Rona You need to be versatile to be a film composer, but that doesn't mean using all of your skills in every score. Sometimes less is more.
MUSICMEDIA by Bob Safir Here and there amidst the hoopla, a few multimedia CDs are serving up gen- uinely effective music. From wild animals and the Bible to the Louvre, here are a few discs worth checking out.
INSIDE THE MUSIC by Dave Stewart Actually, we're not sure what Dave's latest column is about, but it includes a tantalizing musical example, a plaintive meditation on the difficulties of staging an effective live show, and a sad tale about an ill-advised newspaper purchase. Also naughty words in large type.
SOLO PIANO by Fred Hersch Applying thirds and sixths to the melody of "Manhã de Carnaval."
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING by Craig Anderton Analog synths may be all the rage, but if all you have is a workstation, don't despair. Try these tricks for getting analog sounds out of a digital box.
COMPOSING by Richard Leiter Both ends of the pencil are useful. After inspiration strikes, use these techniques to revise your work to punch up the emotional impact.
CREATIVE OPTIONS by Connor Freff Cochran Sometimes the true hero is the one who has the courage to be really, really bad in public.
Expanded Korg Trinity synth
The Trinity's a great workstation. Here's what happens when you add all the options
Studio Electronics ATC-1 synth A new synth with old-style features
Head-to-head: PC CD-ROMs
CD-ROMs which help you compose? We line up three to see how they really perform
TC Electronics Finalizer MIDI file effects and arpeggios.
Alesis QS7 synth
The latest American synth gets the FM test
Spectral Pro Tone synth
A monosynth monster or a dated duck?
Motu Performer v5.5 sequencer
The latest update of this flashy software
Yamaha QY700 module
A new take on cramming sounds into boxes
Samson M12 micro mixer
Mixers just get smaller. Is small beautiful?
Zoom 1204 effects
Does low cost mean low quality effects?
Retro: Korg Mono/Poly
A poly or a mono? Who cares, it's damn good
Sample CDs
Instant samples for you to load up
CD Central
Instant songs to listen up
Richard H Kirk
The ex-Cabaret Voltaire man is producing massive amounts of music for every genre going. We track him down and ask how 20 years of technological advances have changed him...
Giorgio Moroder
He maybe responsible for some of the classic tracks of all time, but the influential producer and writer is still going strong. So it's about time he talked to us, then…
Dan The Sound Man
The man who keeps the Radio One Breakfast Show on its toes in the sound department is an avid FM fan. Why? Find out here
Wanted dead or alive
Take a gander and see what German synth- poppers Propaganda are up to now
Downtime
The ex-Tangerine Dream man goes hip to the groove of the world. Here's what he has to say under our Downtime spotlight
Acoustics: A Night On The Tiles
There's a lot more to getting your studio acoustically sound than sticking egg boxes on the wall. You'll find out what right here
Features
DUST BROTHERS Dust in the wind? Not a chance. With a long string of hot production and remix credits from White Zombie to the Beastie Boys, John King and Mike Simpson are smokin'. In this candid conversation they reminisce on their days in college radio and offer a few tricks for handling digital audio tracks.
CSOUND It's not just for the computer lab anymore. The final realization of Max Mathews' pioneering work in music programming languages is available online for your Mac or PC and it will shortly be running on general- purpose DSP chips inside commercial synthesizers, raising the ante in creative sound design.
STEVE NATHAN ON COUNTRY PIANO Want to play like Floyd Cramer or "Pig" Robbins? One of Nashville's top- call session pianists lays down a bushel of two-fisted examples spanning the history of Music City piano.
KORG PROPHECY HOT TIPS Getting the most out of a lead synthesizer means getting a few new con- cepts under your belt. Join us in a tour of oscillator types, and discover the secrets of the performance interface-left-hand controllers, knobs, sound morphing, and more.
BLUEGRASS SEQUENCING Now you can bring the Blue Ridge Mountains into your studio- and you don't even need a fiddle or a banjo! Marty Cutler (creator of PG Music's program The Bluegrass Band) does the GM hoedown.
Keyboard Reports
SOUNDS Spectrasonics' Burning Grooves, AMG's Kickin' Lunatic Beats, Vol. 2, and Essential Sounds' Acoustic Essentials, Vol. 1 & 2.
ROLAND MC-303 Interactive dance-oriented sequencer/tone module.
YAMAHA CS1x Synthesizer.
BAG END MINI KEYBOARD SYSTEM Live sound reinforcement system with subwoofer.
Departments
LETTERS Rap sucks, giving samplers the finger, more on the clear Pro-One, a Grammy for letting it whip, damage in the stockroom, downloadable Roland and Ensoniq updates, and Atari fans sound off.
WORLD VIEW Late-breaking bulletins from Stabbing Westward, Komeda, Collide, Billy Jolly and Donald Robinson, REO Speedwagon's Neal Doughty, and... Korla Pandit? Plus all the news that's news.
INTERFACE Video editing for the Akai DR8, digital multitracking from Hohner, digital grands from Viscount and Kurzweil, Performer and Kyma upgrades, wireless mics, multi- media audio accessories, sound CDs, a MIDI sensor system. . . and a vintage turntable cartridge.
MUSICMEDIA by Bob Safir Put the Blaster out to pasture? Looking back over the last two years in multimedia audio and forward to real-time 3D from the CPU.
DISCOVERIES by Titus Levi New R&B CDs from No Room 4 Error and Music Everlasting.
NET SMARTS by Dan Barrett New column! As you're browsing, watch out for online scams that target unwary musicians.
INSIDE THE MUSIC by Dave Stewart Venturing onstage with his challenging prog-pop charts and a stack of keyboards, Dave found that a third hand came in very handy.
REEL WORLD by Jeff Rona There are no ironclad rules for effective scoring, but sometimes less is more. Also: tips for cue spotting.
HOME STUDIO SOLUTIONS by Jim Aikin New column! Getting a vibrant "live" performance out of a sequencer is a challenge. When should you quantize?
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING by Craig Anderton Need to add effects to your recorded tracks? Try these tips for better processor routing.
COMPOSING by Richard Leiter It's time for that big jingle session with the real grand piano track. But what if you're your own engineer? Where's the best spot to position the mics?
CREATIVE OPTIONS by Connor Freff Cochran On and off the operating table with the improbable Doc Savage.
Features
PC RECORDING ROUNDUP
We take six Windows-based hard disk recording systems out for a spin, and discover some important differences between Creamware tripleDAT, Digidesign Session and Session 8, IQS SAW Plus, Sek'd Samplitude, and Soundscape SSHDDR1.
JAMIROQUAI
Stevie Wonder look out! Jamiroquai is dishing out some serious old-skool groove. And while they haven't been the healthiest band on the circuit, enduring bouts of shingles and tonsillitis, the 11 funksters are back on the road with the Rhodes (among other vintage treasures).
MASTER CLASS: JUDY CARMICHAEL ON STRIDE PIANO
The queen of the most challenging piano style in the history of jazz, Judy Carmichael reveals the secrets of arranging, improvising, and grooving in stride. Plus, what Count Basie was really smiling about for all those years.
CASE STUDY: THE MAKING OF A REMAKE
The Human League never sounded like this before. In this case study, Key- board examines four thumpin' remakes from TranceLeague Express - A Trance Tribute to the Human League. Log onto Keyboard Central for a listen.
HOT TIPS: ROLAND VS-880
Now that you've gone digital, learn how to milk maximum mileage out of that shiny new Roland multitrack.
Keyboard Reports
KAWAI K5000W Additive keyboard workstation.
ROLAND A-90EX 88-key MIDI master controller with optional sound expander.
NOVATION DRUMSTATION Rack-mount drum synthesizer.
Departments
LETTERS A computer is not a sampler, a grandmother yearns for a soft touch, and a Canadian's battery goes South.
WORLD VIEW Kula Shaker speaks in tongues, Suede invades the States, the return of a blues legend, Wynonna hits the road, Moondog howls, Arnold dies, and much more.
INTERFACE New products for drooling gear hounds. Check out the latest from Apple, ART, BBE, E-mu, Furman, Opcode, Passport, Steinberg, TASCAM, Waves, Yamaha, and others.
SOUNDS Masterbits' FX Zone, e-Lab's X-Static Goldmine 4, and L-Squared Sound Effects' Platinum Sounds for the 21st Century.
IN REVIEW The Keyboard staff spouts about Luscious Jackson, Miles Davis and Gil Evans, cutting-edge electronica from abroad, and other new releases.
THE BUSINESS by Kashif New column! Meet the man behind the hits, and author of Everything You'd Better Know About the Record Industry. In his debut installment, Kashif recounts a mem- orable road trip, and plots a course for the future.
INSIDE THE MUSIC by Dave Stewart Shiver me timbres! Dave gets down to business with an Indonesian bamboo rattle.
NET SMARTS by Dan Barrett Caught in a Web? Meet Dan the Net-surfin' Man, your future source for Internet information. This month he explains the ins and outs of Newsgroups and Usenet.
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING by Craig Anderton Get "plugged-in." Craig explores the integration of hard disk recording programs and software add-ons.
HOME STUDIO SOLUTIONS by Jim Aikin Bored by tired old synth sounds? Before you splurge on a new sampler, try these programming tricks.
REEL WORLD by Jeff Rona Fresh off his big-screen bonanza with White Squall, Jeff turns his attention to the underground, scoring the indie flick Do Me a Favor.
DISCOVERIES by Titus Levi From Jersey to the Golden State, this month's talent spotlight shines on seven new American artists. And don't forget to download the audio clips from Keyboard Central.
SOLO PIANO by Fred Hersch Take a trip to the temple of jazz, as Fred serves up an essential listening guide to monumental records, and an accompanying contact list.
COMPOSING by Richard Leiter Put your thumb to your nose and stretch out your pinkie. No, we're not talking digital dexterity, but tips and tricks in the recording studio. Really.
CREATIVE OPTIONS by Connor Freff Cochran Connor takes a tongue-tangled trip into the land of linguistics.
Features
HARRY CONNICK, JR.
Raised on New Orleans funk, stretched out by post-bop, tempered by Tangle- wood, Harry Connick, Jr., had his eye on success from the beginning. Here he takes us on a stylistic tour of his mentor, James Booker, and puts the piano in perspective. Then he takes us to the movies.
FOUR MORE FOR WINDOWS
Last month we looked at six multitrack recorders for Windows. This month we finish the round-up by profiling four PC turnkey systems from Merging Technologies, Microsound Technology, Spectral, and Studio Audio & Video. Clean tracks, post-pro sync, no assembly required.
EVERYTHING BUT THE GIRL
They may have been chased out from the "quiet storm" of adult contem- porary radio, but armed with more electronic toys and a power conditioner to prevent it all from misbehaving, Ben Watt and Tracey Thorn stir con- temporary dance into their kettle of R&B jazz.
CHICAGO JINGLE ROUNDTABLE
Writing music for TV commercials might sound like a cake gig, but wait 'til you read what really goes on behind the scenes in jingleland. In this Keyboard exclusive, three of Chicago's finest sit down and walk us through the frantic process. And, oh yeah, did we mention these guys are keyboard and recording maniacs?
Keyboard Reports
LEXICON MPX-1 Multieffects processor.
MIDI SOLUTIONS Programmable MIDI processors.
STUDIO ELECTRONICS ATC-1 Rack-mount monophonic analog synth module.
PEAVEY SPECTRUM BASS II Rack-mount MIDI bass module.
YAMAHA SU10 Portable sampler.
Departments & Columns
LETTERS New Prophecy sounds, Mac OS updates, old RAM, techno on a budget, and the hidden download.
WORLD VIEW Head-butting wildman Wesley Willis, studio talk with the Counting Crows, Devo returns, Robert Miles moves, a freak encounter with Baby Fox, and much more.
INTERFACE New Gear for the Home/Project Studio The annual AES show has become a venue for new gear unveilings, as this year's blow-out in L.A. will attest. Check out all the mouth-watering product announcements in this expanded Interface episode.
DANCE MIX by Joey Donatello New Column! For all of you who like to shake it on the dance floor, or make the music that shakes those booties, consider this new column your monthly feeding ground.
SOLO PIANO by Fred Hersch Yoga, weightlifting, downhill skiing, and piano? Well, not exactly, but Fred prescribes an exercise regiment for the mind, body, and soul.
HOME STUDIO SOLUTIONS by Jim Aikin What's your method of mayhem? As increasing numbers of digital musicmakers turn to hard-disk recording systems, Jim examines the tradeoffs when you choose a computer or a sampler.
NET SMARTS by Dan Barrett In case you didn't notice, Big Brother is watching your on-line activities. Dan offers some good advice for avoiding Internet pirates and snoops.
THE BUSINESS by Kashif How do you find the right manager? Kashif tells a real life horror story, then discusses the ins and outs of the management maze.
REEL WORLD by Jeff Rona Jeff takes time out this month to give his personal views on one of the most fre- quently asked questions: What gear should I buy?
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING by Craig Anderton Do your tracks ever suffer from malnutrition? Maybe you're out of phase. Consider this month's column essential if you're new to the recording game.
INSIDE THE MUSIC by Dave Stewart We've always known that Dave marches to the beat of a different drummer (and that's why we love him so), but this month he's off on a tangent about becoming Queen of England. God save Dave.
COMPOSING by Richard Leiter What in the world can a keyboardist learn from a timbale player? Expectations.
CREATIVE OPTIONS by Connor Freff Cochran Love and fear in a Hollywood waiting room.
Head-to-head special! Effects
Budget effects boxes are getting better, but which is the best one of all?
Head-to-head special! Sound modules
Two of the latest sound modules from the big guns of Korg and Roland line up in the battle of the sounds. Which one should you choose?
Head-to-head special! 303 clones
The demand for the 303 sound is still out there. Here, two 303 clones line up to try and out- squeal each other
Orgon Enigiser synth
Some of the most powerful sounds around in a ruddy great big metal box
Midiman cards for the PC
Digital audio cards with Samplitude and EQ controller software
DigiTech Vocalist Workstation
Every vocalist's harmonic dream packed in to one small unit
The Mirrormaker
Software to invert your music
Retro: Alesis HR-16
It looks like a space ship and has some of the best tunable drum sounds around
Sample CDs
Need new sounds to enliven your mix?
CD Central
Your questions answered. As simple as that
The Orb
The band are back with a cracking new album and this exclusive interview with us!
Laika
A post-ambient, post-rock meeting of lo-fi and hi- tech? Judge for yourself
Republica
Another band fusing genres. A mix of guitars, techno, punk and pop spills out here
White Town
The man who stormed the charts with Your Woman tells us how to do it for pennies
Wanted dead or alive
'Industrial music for industrial people.' That's how Throbbing Gristle described their output. But what do they sound like now?
Downtime
Definitive samplers, Coldcut, come clean
Guitar effects 1: Classic sounds
Derek 'Kelly' O'Sullivan can also turn your guitar into a sound-producing beast
Flying hi-fi
Use your stereo for budget production...
3D PC
Your PC can now make 3D sounds. We get one of Intel's experts to explain all
Features
SUCCESS ON A SHOESTRING
Instead of waiting for that magic phone call, why not get creative with your career, the way these five up-and-coming artists have? With a few affordable resources and the right attitude, you can be as famous as you wanna be.
BILLY TAYLOR
Not only a great pianist but a tireless champion of jazz education, at 75 Dr. Taylor tells a few stories and reflects on the value of what he calls "America's classical music."
MASTER CLASS: MITCH WOODS
Rock and roll lessons might sound like an oxymoron, but Mitch was happy to share his patented left-hand rhythm bounce, derived from the boogie- woogie masters, and some slick licks that would do Jerry Lee Lewis proud.
Keyboard Reports
BIAS PEAK Digital audio editing software (Macintosh).
HAMMOND SUZUKI XM-1 Drawbar organ module.
YAMAHA P50-m Digital piano module.
SOUNDS A double shot of 808 and 909 samples from Discovery, Gary Wright's dream-weaving Rhodes from 3D Sound, and Ultimate Guitars from Sweetwater Sound.
Departments & Columns
LETTERS The many flavors of DSP, non-scams on the Net, sample playback from your PC, sluggish sounds, light at the end of the tunnel, and the latest episode of the one- finger debate.
WORLD VIEW Aphex Twin keeps tweaking, Cyrnai gets surreal, Morcheeba gets into the glue, Tommy Barbarella gets Greazy, Reba McEntire gets Doug and Paul, and Michele Rosewoman finally gets her due. Plus news from all over.
INTERFACE Sampler enhancements, help for vocalists, Chinese uprights, digital I/O in a rack, CD burner goodies, new mixers, new grooves, high-end preamps, wireless mics, edutainment, and a sequencer with knobs. Also: The Macintosh OS has big blues.
THE BUSINESS by Kashif The time to hire an attorney is before you need one. And sooner or later you will so don't miss these ten tested tips for choosing the right legal representation.
REEL WORLD by Jeff Rona A few sad notes from the score to Nightmare on Sync Street.
INSIDE THE MUSIC by Dave Stewart Improvising isn't just for jazzers, but the sequencer was wearing a beret as Django Bates spun out this deft and sprightly solo.
SOLO PIANO by Fred Hersch Don't be intimidated by that snobby old guy in the classical music section. With this essential listening list, you'll know exactly which CDs to buy to expand your knowledge of the literature.
DANCE MIX by Joey Donatello Vinyl? Yeah, vinyl! You can even press your own, either for turntable work or for your fans. But is your track a mother or a stamper?
COMPOSING by Richard Leiter Comping in rhythm doesn't have to be boring. With one of these syncopated riffs, your next tune will be off to a flying start.
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING by Craig Anderton You don't need a remote truck to record samples in the field. Even an analog cassette with noise reduction will work fine. After you get the stuff home, try these tweaks to spiff it up.
HOME STUDIO SOLUTIONS by Jim Aikin Just getting the tracks recorded isn't enough. Try these home-brew techniques for enhancing the character of your digital mix.
NET SMARTS by Dan Barrett The World Wide Web is a big, big place. Wouldn't it be great if you had a magic genie to help you find the cool stuff? Guess what? You do have one. Here's how to put the genie to work.
CREATIVE OPTIONS by Connor Freff Cochran Is that a crown you're wearing, or is it just a swelled head? Take a trip through the French countryside and enter a famous chateau by the back door.
Roland JV-2080 sound module
The JV-1080 was the best module of 1995. The big brother gets an FM thrashing
Alesis NanoCompressor
Isty-bitsy, diddly compressor
Joemeek Prochannel VC3
All-in-one studio thingy
Roland M-BD 1 sound module
A box aimed at drummers and bassists
Newtronics MIDI files
Two disks full of techno and trip hop.........
Steinberg X Pose
Trigger visuals with your MIDI notes
Roland GR-30 guitar synth
For keyboard-retentive guitarists
Hammond XM1 sound module
Classic sounds with drawbars added
Yamaha REV500 effects
A bargain from the boys who build bikes
Koan X Platinum software
Latest installment of the gifted software
Logic Audio Discovery
Smaller version of the popular software
Retro: Yamaha DX100
The 'Detroit' synth gets re-reviewed
Sample CDs
The latest CDs without complete songs
Depeche Mode
A French name with a history of hi-tech success. The history, the interview, the songs...
Jean-Michel Jarre
A French name with a history of hi-tech success. But why a return to musical roots?
Jimi Tenor.......
A hat trick for France? Nope. Jimi's from Finland and has a unique sound. Finnished...
Wanted dead or alive
Wouldn't it be good to find out what Nik Kershaw is up to now? Just as well we have done here then, isn't it
Downtime
They look a bit like EMF on drugs, but Apollo 440 are breathing new life into the charts. Here's their version of events
Studios on a budget 1
How to get all the gear you need with as little cash as possible, including a complete run down of studio basics. And then some
Guitar effects 2: Weird sounds
Simon Young gets loony with a guitar and reveals the weirdest sounds around
features
NEW GEAR: NAMM 97
Welcome to the geargasm! This year's Anaheim extravaganza featured an affordable 1.5Gb sampler, a molded Plexiglass grand piano, a virtual TB-303, and an entire phat planet, plus plug-ins, drawbars, sampling CDs, Thomas Dolby's online music software, and a whole heck of a lot more!
FUTURE SOUND OF LONDON
The leading visionaries of techno take us on a live-in-the-studio journey to the land of mutant media, where moldy vocal tracks are reborn and streamed out over ISDN lines.
MASTER CLASS: FOURTH-CHORDS
Are your piano solos sounding staid and stale? Andy Laveme explores a class of chord voicings (pioneered by jazz great McCoy Tyner) that will kick your hands into high gear.
SPACE
Maybe they haven't reached the final frontier, but they're definitely pushing the envelope. Franny Griffiths talks about their off-the-wall songwriting methods and reluctantly admits that he uses a Sound Canvas.
Keyboard reports
CUBASE VST This Macintosh-based sequencer/audio recorder brings the studio-in-a-computer concept closer than ever before.
SONY MDM-X4 A MiniDisc multitrack with muscle.
QUASIMIDI RAVE-O-LUTION More than just a drum machine, thanks to analog filters and a ton of knobs.
OPCODE STUDIO 64X An affordable cross-platform computer/MIDI interface.
ROLAND KC-500 & KC-300 Keyboard combo amps for the gigging musician.
SOUNDS Some nasty noise loops, nightmare ambiences, and three CDs of authentic traditional instrument samples from Japan.
Departments
LETTERS Readers check in with their own prescriptions for getting more techno out of less gear. Also, getting crunchy with the TX16W, phoning up Michael Jackson, missing Web files, and turning rust into plastic laser pits.
PLUG IN! We've reinvented our World View section. Break an Egg, hook up to a Bypass Unit, go Cyber-Tec with Jean-Luc Demeyer of Front 242, learn how Les McCann is using MIDI to recover from a stroke, get the latest on Sammy Hagar from Jesse Harms, and feel the Rush.
how-to columns
REEL WORLD by Jeff Rona Even when you're scoring a film on unusually short notice, there can still be time to fudge the mixes.
NET SMARTS by Dan Barrett Can't find it on the Internet? Our expert has yet more tips for getting the most out of a search engine.
THE BUSINESS by Kashif Birds and bees don't do it, but musicians do write songs, that is. Once you've penned that future hit, how do you market it?
HOME STUDIO SOLUTIONS by Jim Aikin You can learn a lot more from commercial CDs than how to EQ the drums. It's all in how you listen.
SOLO PIANO by Fred Hersch Get chromatic with this startling arrangement of a classic tune by Thelonious Monk.
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING by Craig Anderton Is the MiniDisc multitracker poised to take over for the lowly cas- sette? Or is it going head to head with hard disk recorders? Find out the facts.
COMPOSING by Richard Leiter In comedy improv, the piano player has to be ready for anything - even being blindfolded in the middle of a piece.
INSIDE THE MUSIC by Dave Stewart In between bouts of jazz drum programming, Dave takes a dour look at some of his fellow columnists. Well, at least he's in good company....
CREATIVE OPTIONS by Connor Freff Cochran Harpsichordist on a tightrope. Or are the most fearsome prisons the ones we build for ourselves?
Features
CHEMICAL BROTHERS
Pour a jolt of techno into a test tube, add plenty of hip-hop juice, jam in the cork, and shake it until it explodes. That's the Chemicals' recipe. Today they're churning out hit singles, and remixing for the Prodigy and Bomb The Bass, but they crafted their first hit in the bedroom with an $1000 and a Juno 106.
GRANULAR SYNTHESIS
You won't find it in the average General MIDI module - nor in any other commercially available synthesizer - but this powerful technique for generating exotic digital sounds is now available on Keyboard's Web site. Computer music authority Curtis Roads connects the dots.
MASTER CLASS: JEFF LORBER
Jazz voicings, hoppin' funk rhythms, and a two-fisted approach to the keyboard have made Jeff a top-call L.A. studio ace. To learn some of his patented licks, read through these transcriptions, or check out the MIDI and audio files online!
SNEAKER PIMPS
An early sampling accident left a scar, but Liam Howe never turned nis back on technology. Now he's responsible for some of the quirkiest but most memorable bleeps and bloops on the radio.
Keyboard reports
SONY MDM-X4he Sony MiniDisc audio specs that we were unable to print last month.
ROLAND JP-8000 There's quite a buzz about this new digitally modelled analog synth. Join us as we grab the knobs and tweeze the sliders.
FOSTEX DMT-8VL This tabletop ministudio offers eight tracks of uncompressed hard disk recording at an unheard-of price.
GENERALMUSIC PRO2 Realistic harp and frame resonance give this digital piano an edge.
KORG TRINITY HARD DISK RECORDING OPTIONS Now you can add four tracks of audio to the sequenced songs in this popular workstation, as well as non-volatile memory for al- ternative samples.
SOUNDS Check out some new additive synthesis patches for the Kawai K5000 and a Brazilian percussion construction kit on computer CD-ROM.
Departments
LETTERS
Starving artists sound off, sample-to-tempo conversion, too much grunge, step entry nostalgia, and the word on word clock, true analog, the RIAA curve, Hammond harmonics, and Spirit.
PLUG IN! Something old from Klaus Schulze, something new from White Town, some- thing borrowed from Chemlab, and something blue from Kristeen Young Plus INXS, the Friends theme, and a bold new frontier in vintage synthesis.
TOOLS OF THE TRADE A roundup of hot compressor/limiters, a CD duplicator, streaming audio (not with royalty tracking, yet) for the Internet, new audio plug-ins, new sounds - heck, we've even got the latest Casio! Not to mention custom studio wiring, a 1.5Gb-removable drive, and late-breaking bulletins from the Frankfurt Musikmesse.
IN REVIEW The latest CDs: Jazz from Brad Mehldau, Lonnie Smith, and John Novello, Mozart from Keith Jarrett, and as- sorted rudeness from Think Tank, Beastie Boys, Takako Minekawa, and Meat Beat Manifesto. Plus three new books on electronic music, and an instructional video.
DISCOVERIES by Titus Levi A roundup of stimulating tapes and CDs from ambitious artists near and far.
How-to columns
HOME STUDIO SOLUTIONS by Jim Aikin Switching to a PC? Get the jump on jumpers and those irksome IRQS with these hands-on tips.
COMPOSING by Richard Leiter In a rut? Maybe it won't take a riot in the streets to provide some fresh inspiration but sometimes lightning strikes in the most unlikely places.
NET SMARTS by Dan Barrett Don't hunt blind through Usenet for the information you need. Let the search engine in Deja News do the walking.
THE BUSINESS by Kashif Ready to hook up with a publisher who can market your songwriting? Find out where the money goes.
DANCE MIX by Joey Donatello Want to make your mixes slam? Before you send the tape off to the mastering house, do a little premastering. Or a lot.
REEL WORLD by Jeff Rona When you're in film, you're in film all the way. Hop a flight to Sundance and share a box of popcorn with the composer of the soundtrack.
INSIDE THE MUSIC by Dave Stewart The producer of the TV pilot said, "Do what you like" - dangerous license (or licence) where Dave is concerned.
SOLO PIANO by Fred Hersch Take the motivic methodology in a classic tune by Thelonious Monk, and use it in your solo!
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING by Craig Anderton Want to use your computer for recording? Options in soundcard hardware are proliferating. An expert explains what's what.
CREATIVE OPTIONS by Connor Freff Cochran Remember when Billy Joel sang, "Don't go changin""? No sooner were the words out of his mouth than he was too late.
Yamaha A3000 WORLD EXCLUSIVE!
As usual, we're the first with the big tests, but is this long-awaited sampler as good as the hype?
Yamaha G50
The guitar-to-MIDI converter comes of age
Head-to-head: Soundcards
Two hot PC cards shoot it out
Yamaha MX12/4
Budget four-buss mixing with effects!
Quasimidi Rave-O-Lution 309
A German all-in-one techno box
Round-up: Analogue filters
The latest units for getting that analogue squeal lined up and rated
Roland VS-880PX
The latest version of the popular recorder
Opcode Vision 3.5
The latest version of the popular sequencer!
Fostex DMT-8 VL
Is this budget hard-disk recorder any good?
Retro: Korg DSS-1
Another look at one of Korg's old-timers
Sample CDs
Load up these sounds and compose away
Wanted dead or alive....... Altern 8: still wearing masks in 1997?
TRIBAL GATHERING SPECIAL!
Kraftwerk A rare technical interview with the grandfathers of dance music and true techno Gods
Speedy. The flying Dutchman talks tough techno
Roni Size. Size is important. In drum 'n' bass anyway
Way Out West Remixers from Bristol
Red Snapper Mutated jazz from up North
Dave Clarke Hard house from the UK
Hardfloor Hard acid from Germany
ACSS Folk dance from around the world
Downtime
DJ John Peel talks about his decades at Radio 1 and his appearance at this year's Tribal Gathering
MIDI up, up and away
Here's how to connect that classic piece of gear you have to all your new bits and pieces. Time to MIDI up those retro sounds.
Running on empty
Here's how to iron out those technical annoyances that hold your thought processes up
Guitar effects 4: Axe murderer
The last part of our series on getting guitar sounds without a guitar!
features
MUSIC ON THE WEB The World Wide Web is huge- and it's filled with both opportunities and confusion. Maybe you're seeking an outlet for your own music. Maybe you get frustrated trying to listen to other people's stuff, or wonder if a gig in online soundtrack music might be a way to rake in a few extra bucks. Let our experts get you off on the right foot.
ON THE WEB: AUDIO DELIVERY If you want to add music to a site, you need to know about the latest advances in compression technology, the market penetration struggles among competing file formats, and the special server software required for Webcasting.
ON THE WEB: PAINLESS MUSIC BROWSING Does your browser refuse to make a squeak? When you click on music links, do you get nothing
but error boxes? Here's how to get the right plug-ins and configure them for your computer.
ON THE WEB: 67 COOL SITES There are probably thousands of sites where you can hear great music or learn more about the industry and the technology. Start with this list of recommended links, and don't forget to take a break to eat and sleep.
ON THE WEB: COPYRIGHT PROTECTION Electronic transmission of digital music isn't quite a copy, but it isn't quite a broadcast either. Is licensing obsolete? No. A lawyer explains where the money goes, and why.
DEPECHE MODE Synth-pop rises from the grave. Chief songwriter Mar- tin Gore reveals what has changed in the new Mode, and what stays the same. Meanwhile, Tim Simenon's programmer explains the strategy for the single.
MASTER CLASS: JOHN NOVELLO It isn't just the notes you play - a Hammond organ specialist talks drawbars, presets, and Leslie ac tion. A few custom mods won't hurt, either. Sight- read the music, or listen to it online!
BANCO DE GAIA Obscure references to Mussolini are just part of the vibe for British electronic artist Toby Marks. He only uses analog synths, but of course the digital sampler doesn't count. An upcoming resemblance to Rick Wakeman may or may not be coincidental.
Keyboard reports
E-MU ORBIT & PLANET PHATT Fresh sounds for dance and hip-hop, spiced up with some interactive beats - and if you crave a real front panel, don't pass up the Launch Pad.
MOTION SOUND LESLIE SIMULATORS Can't deal with the big wooden box? Join our panel of pros as they crank up the real rotating horns in these cartable simulators.
KORG NS5R Custom-tailored for computer sound enhancement, this tabletop General MIDI module even lets you add a daughterboard.
JUSTONIC PITCH PALETTE If your synthesizer can handle it, this Windows software will intelligently retune your chords on the fly.
ANTARES AUTO-TUNE Got a singer with a bad case of the clams? This Pro Tools plug-in can spot and fix the out-of-tune notes while you take a coffee break.
YAMAHA REV500 Great big reverb, tiny little price.
SOUNDS Fiddle and mandolin breaks in Whole Lotta Country, Kit Watkins strolls through Ambient Realms, Sweet- water's B-3 samples for the Kurzweil, Spectrasonics' Liquid Grooves, and literally thousands of Dance Mega drum loops.
Departments
LETTERS Did our review reveal a BIAS? Can the Trinity transfer HD audio to ADAT? Do you need multitrack digital audio at all? How about a pencil instead? And what's in a name?
PLUG IN Take a ride with Trans Am, Information Society reorganizes, David Frank celebrates the possibilities, Aaron Moore belts out some boogie-woogie, and dance artists get their very own awards. Plus news from all over.
TOOLS OF THE TRADE Studio Vision 3.5 unveiled, a new software synthesizer, a S/PDIF patchbay, MIDI routing and audio from Midiman, rack FX from Samson, controller gesture processing, MIDI-to-CV conversion, late-breaking computer news, and hot sounds from Time+Space, Patchman,
DISCOVERIES by Titus Levi Guitar playing sneaks into Keyboard yet again, as our talent scout gives a spin to recent tapes from two instrumental duos.
IN REVIEW Jarre has a flashback, Bill Evans finally gets his way, three New Orleans ragtimers strut their stuff, and ambient electronica covers the planet like syrup - plus Taj Mahal, the Optigan that wouldn't die, and an oblique reference to armadillo stew!
How to columns
SOLO PIANO by Fred Hersch Next time you take a solo, stretch out. No, not for 17 choruses and not hor- izontally on the bench, either. Instead, try grabbing some octaves.
THE BUSINESS by Kashif Written a hit song, but nobody knows it yet? Great material is only the beginning: You also need to network, know your market, and negotiate a fair contract.
NET SMARTS by Dan Barrett Has online paranoia gone too far? Sometimes the best music is a bit shocking. But what if you were liable to get locked up for distributing songs that would be perfectly legal played in a local club?
COMPOSING by Richard Leiter A harmonic inspiration from Peter Nero. Also, which of the fans backstage are the important ones?
DANCE MIX by Joey Donatello Patch those compressors into the board, nudge a few faders, rewind the sequencer to the top and smile for the camera.
INSIDE THE MUSIC by Dave Stewart Can't have too much of a good thing, right? If that chord was great to start with, try playing it again... and again... and again... and again....
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING by Craig Anderton To extend the 4-track limit of a MiniDisc recorder, you need to play back your sequenced virtual tracks in sync. But what happens when the tempo changes?
HOME STUDIO SOLUTIONS by Jim Aikin No, "PC" doesn't just mean "politically correct." If you're new to Windows music computing, these tips will help you master Device Manager, Setup, and the mys- terious WIN.INI file.
CREATIVE OPTIONS by Connor Freff Cochran While your toddler is busy learning your bad habits, you could be learning his or her good ones.
COVER FEATURE: WEIRD GEAR!
Four alien pieces of music technology get captured and interrogated by the FM agents
Alesis QSR
The US company keeps the sample 'n' synth sounds flying high with this module
Spirit LX7
Spirit's most versatile mixer gets probed
Evolution Sound Studio Gold
You want cheap sequencing software?
Peavey Spectrum Bass II
Can this module dive down to Barry White's level? (Voice level, that is.) We see how low it can go
Yamaha 03D
A class act digital mixer at an affordable price
JoMoX XBase 09
Enough Xs to make it X-rated but does this drum machine kick where it hurts?
Retro: ARP Solina String Ensemble
Lovely name but is this old piece of electronics worth tracking down in 1997?
Sample CDs
Rounding up small snippets of sound
CD Central
Listening up to big songs of sound
Fluke.
This lot were doing the hard techno and distorted vocal thing while Underworld were still in their prams. Well maybe not quite, but they're great, OK?
Death In Vegas
After a recent support slot, with The Chemical Brothers, DIV are looking set to break big with their own big breaks
Label profile: Pussyfoot Records
An occasional series on up-and-coming labels continues with this look at a record company set up by none other than Howie B
Wanted dead or alive
Fad Gadget. Were they just a fad? And how many gadgets did they actually have?
Downtime
HAL have scored with Gillian Anderson. In the charts that is! Ho, ho and, indeed, ho
MIDI files explained
You take them for granted but here we tell you everything you need to know about MIDI files
features
WELCOME TO THE PLUG-IN ZONE
Increasing the audio power of your studio has never been easier - sampler RAM is cheap, CD-ROMs are practically procreating, and hard drives make easy additions to computers. Best of all, software has joined the ranks of "the expandable," as plug-ins are now starting to fulfill promises of non-obsolescence that we've been fantasizing about for over a decade. Take a journey through the sights and sounds of VST, TDM, DirectX, Premier, AudioSuite, and more, as we explore... the Plug-In Zone.
PLUG-IN ZONE: A BRIEF HISTORY OF TIME/PITCH CHANGE
Some of the hottest plug-ins available will squeeze and tweeze your tracks into almost any duration, key, or... gender. Jim Aikin journeys into this technological wormhole and comes out the other side only slightly compressed.
PLUG-IN ZONE: PLUG-IN TASK FORCE
Need something a little wackier than reverb and EQ? Check out some of these plug-ins designed for special applications ranging from analog tape emulation to spectrum analysis to 3D sound.
THE FATHERS OF CHICAGO HOUSE
It all started in the late '70s at a Chicago after-hours club called the Warehouse, and years later house music still stands strong. In this special feature, three of house's founding fathers - Frankie Knuckles, Jesse Saunders, and Farley "Jackmaster" Funk- tell it like it was, and is.
MASTER CLASS: CHORD VOICINGS
Renowned jazz teacher Armen Donelian shows how to get started in the world of chord voicings. Learn your way around the II-V-I progression in both major and minor, then chart a path into the world of rootless voicings.
KING BRITT
In Digable Planets he was the turntable pilot, but now that Sylk 130 is launched, the Britt from Philly has turned to keyboards. And man, can he remix.
Keyboard reports
TASCAM 564 MINIDISC MULTITRACK The inventors of the original Portastudio step up to the plate with this year's hot recording technology.
ROLAND JV-2080 Be ready to play any session with this expandable rackmount synth.
CODA FINALE 3.7.2 When it has to look perfect no matter what, this notation software is up to the challenge.
ROLAND GR-30 Roland rolls out the red carpet for any body interested in playing synth/MIDI
guitar. And a one, and a two: "Mooooon, over my whammy...
STEINBERG RED VALVE-IT This ornery TDM plug-in can turn your computer into a Marshall stack... sort of.
WALDORF MINIWORKS 4-POLE Waldorf cranks up the resonance with this snappy little dedicated filter.
SOUNDS Kurzweil presents the jazz/R&B vocals of Take 6 for your pleasure (and in the process scores the first perfect "10s" we've given out) and three Creative Essentials CDs from Time+Space offer pounds of sounds for petty cash.
Departments
LETTERS
Readers sound off on computer platforms past and future, getting more music out of less gear, timely product reviews, and the vexing question of audio CDs versus CD-ROMs.
PLUG IN
Toni Braxton's dance music makeover, a drum 'n' bass pioneer shares a few secrets, Gus Gus defrosts Iceland, Daft Punk mounts a new French revolution, Celine Dion hits the road with a truckload of synths, and much more.
TOOLS OF THE TRADE
Another new Kurzweil K2000 sampler, tons o' sounds, patches, and MIDI files, Vocalist toys from Digitech and DOD, Sony's smallest DAT Walkman, wired and wireless in-ear monitor systems from Shure, and surround sound through ordinary stereo headphones courtesy of Sennheiser. On the computer front, Robert Lauriston reports on faster Pentium chips, an Enhanced-EIDE hard drive interface that rivals SCSI, and Apple's sonically superior (speaker-wise anyway) PowerBook 3400.
IN REVIEW
Adventures in foam, the mechanics of cleavage, future Bible heroes (plus a letter to St. Paul), floating in space, allstar electronica, some good karma... it's the usual bumper crop of fascinating CDs.
How-to columns
THE BUSINESS by Kashif Ready to tackle financial planning, promotion, and just plain hard work? If so, consider the pros and cons of starting your own record label.
SOLO PIANO by Fred Hersch Valentine's day has long past, but no matter. Fred takes us to the heart of Richard Rogers' "My Romance" - a standard suitable for all seasons.
REEL WORLD by Jeff Rona Getting from point A to point B isn't always a straight line. This month, Jeff dodges egos and red tape tangles.
COMPOSING by Richard Leiter Feeling trapped behind all those patch cords and blinking lights? Fred has a cheap solution to the jailhouse blues, and all it takes is a visit to your local music mart.
DANCE MIX by Joey Donatello Bring up the faders on the SSL, and patch in those outboard effects. It's time to get serious about the bass and the kick.
INSIDE THE MUSIC by Dave Stewart Before delving into part 2 of "The Lethargy Shuffle," Dave waxes poetic about British politicians and the recent General Election.
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING by Craig Anderton Recording audio in a Windows program means grappling with such concepts as disk caching, defragmentation, and thermal recalibration. But mastering the concepts may be easier than you think.
NET SMARTS by Dan Barrett Ready to promote your music online? Good. But how are you going to lure new customers into your Web? Read all about it.
CREATIVE OPTIONS by Connor Freff Cochran Connor plays chess with the Grim Reaper this month, and finds a few ways to keep his pieces on the table.
Rode NT1 Cardioid Capacitor Mic PreSonus Blue Max Compressor
Emu Orbit V2 Sound Module
Joe Meek VC4 Enhancer
TL Audio Crimson 3013 Parametric
Spendor QT100 Nearfield Monitors
Korg Z1 Synth Preview
LA Audio MPX1 Mic Processor
Sony PCMR500 Pro DAT Recorder
HHB CDR800 CD Recorder
Cakewalk Pro Audio 6 Software
Yamaha AN1x Synth
Fostex D90 8-Track Digital Recorder
Novation Super Bass Station Synth
Steinberg ReBirth RB338 Software
Antares Auto-Tune TDM Plug-In
Quickshot MIDI Composer Keyboard
Generalmusic PRO2 Digital Piano
CLM Dynamics DB400S Mic Preamp
FEATURES
Writing Music For Animation
Jon Gass
Frank Zappa: A Technological Tribute
James: Recording Whiplash
James Asher
Amber: TV Music Production
SOUND WORKSHOPS
Multi-Effects Programming Part 2
Synth School Part 2: Resonance,
Envelopes & Routing
Hi-Fi Tweaks In The Studio
REGULARS
Crosstalk
Shape Of Things To Come
Sample Shop
Demo Doctor
Free Ads
SOS Mail Order: Books, Videos, CDs
Classified Ads
Sounding Off
COVER FEATURE: Synth head-to-head.
The test you've been waiting for: Roland's JP-8000 vs Yamaha's AN1x vs Clavia's Nord Lead Classic. Which will be left standing after this exclusive FM slog-out?
Steinberg ReBirth RB-338
The best way to make 303 noises on a computer Waldorf Microwave II
This Microwave makes a hell of a lot more noises than the one in your kitchen
Drawmer MX30
A cheap compressor from a quality company
Zoom 507
More guitar effects than you can shake an axe at
Emagic Audiowerk8
A revolutionary hard-disk recording software package that doesn't cost a packet. Thank God
Fostex D-90
Fostex keeps trying and this time we reckon the company has done it with this hard-disk recorder
E-mu Carnaval
Wanna parrrrday? This music box will fill your hearts with Latino joy and mardi gras beats
Novation Super Bass Station
You thought the original BassStation couldn't get better? You were wrong
Retro: Cheetah MD-16 drum machine
It turns out that Cheetah wasn't so bad after all!
Wanted dead or alive
The sample-terrorism of The Bomb Squad made Public Enemy the best rap band in the world. But now?
LTJ Bukem and Blame
LTJ Bukem is the face of drum 'n' bass and FM's most requested interviewee. Find out why
Olive
They took the charts by storm with You're Not Alone. We find out how they did it
John Foxx
After a decade away John Foxx is back with two new albums and an exclusive FM interview
Label profile: Cup Of Tea Records
There's a second wave of Bristol music and this lot are on its crest. FM has a cuppa with Purple Penguin, Statik Sound System, Grantby, The Egg and others
Downtime
Wolfgang Flur talks to us about Kraftwerk, drugs, showers... and the Spice Girls
Seeking sound perfection.
If you want to program convincing MIDI instruments, you'll need to know a bit about the real things
NEW SERIES! So you want to be
In a new series tackling areas of the music business, we look at getting a job as a sound engineer
features
FAITH NO MORE
When your CDs climb into the multi-platinum stratosphere, how do you keep the edge? Join us for a song-by-song exclusive peek behind the scenes as FNM's hard-rock lunatics reveal the computer production secrets behind Album of the Year.
LOGIC HOT TIPS
Deep within Emagic Logic lurks a mystifying maze of MIDI widgets called the Environment. But fear not: Let an expert show you how to do velocity switching, build an analog-style sequencer, or take advantage of the new transformers in version 3.0.
MASTER CLASS: ANDY MILNE
Polyrhythmic excursions in Steve Coleman's rhythm section, new ways to get inside the tune,
and a lesson from Oscar Peterson on how to get great music from a bad piano.
MOLOKO
Is Britain really another planet? You might think so when you hear Mark Brydon's vocoder effects or contemplate the band's "schizophrenic" and "confused" (his words, not ours) lyrics.
Keyboard reports
STEINBERG REBIRTH RB-338 Can't afford (or find) a vintage Roland TR-808 or TB-303? If you've got a computer handy, this faithful software emulation will get your mixes pumpin'.
VESTAX HDR-V8 Eight tracks of digital audio recording in a slim but colorful rack-mount package.
CAKEWALK PRO AUDIO The first sequencer to offer realtime audio FX on the PC, not to mention user-customizable mixer panels, automated editing, and more.
SOUNDS Gotta have an authentic Wurlitzer? Or how about some hot vocal clips? Check out these CDs. Also, MIDI drumbeats, ready for sequencing.
Departments
LETTERS
The URLs are not a mountain range in Asia, things change yet remain the same, fresh inspiration from an unexpected songbook, an earnest request for legal advice, and a few extra grains.
PLUG-IN
The electronic garage band is alive and kicking in Belgium and Finland, the industrial cowboys of Spahn Ranch hit the road, Todd Terry makes remixing sound easy, Splashdown gets their feet wet, prog rock oozes out of L.A., and a synth museum gets bigger and better.
TOOLS OF THE TRADE
A high-end rack synth from E-mu, a versatile digital patchbay from Midiman, a feature-packed soundcard from TerraTec, several new digital pianos from Technics, plus an analog filter, .WAV file data compression, a percussion CD-ROM, and much more!
How-to columns
INSIDE THE MUSIC by Dave Stewart Is there no end to the repeated notes? "The Lethargy Shuffle" trilogy concludes with a fully scored passage in several time signatures (not all of them at once).
DISCOVERIES by Titus Levi This month the roving spotlight pauses on some experimental jazz emanating from San Francisco.
NET SMARTS by Dan Barrett What musicians have inspired you? Do they have their own Web site? If not, maybe you'd like to create a site as a fan. Start here for info on planning, securing rights, and more.
COMPOSING by Richard Leiter There may be more in a solo piano performance than you notice at first. Meet Phil Aaberg and steal a few choice bits of his Big Sky Country style.
SOLO PIANO by Fred Hersch It's all about inner voices as the jazz standard meets the four-part chorale.
THE BUSINESS by Kashif Are you ready for the adventure of owning your own record label? Find out which key employees to hire first, how to cut deals with studios, and when not to release your record.
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING by Craig Anderton Now that CD burners are a reality, intrepid recordists are mastering their discs at home. But when you put on the mastering engineer's hat, you've got a few new things to think about.
REEL WORLD by Jeff Rona Would you jump at any chance to score a picture? What if the offer is for little or no money? No? But what if it comes from a young director who is sure to have a great future? Hmm....
CREATIVE OPTIONS by Connor Freff Cochran The invertebrate equivalent of a pebble in the shoe, and an outtake from Raiders of the Lost Ark.
COVER FEATURE: Clavia Nord Lead 2....
The Nord Lead Classic was a, er, classic, but can its successor reach the same heady heights?
DOD VOFX
Want to sound like Darth Vader vs Underworld?
Spirit Folio Powerpad
Another Spirit innovation: an ickle powered mixer
Cakewalk Pro Audio V6
Not just another software upgrade
Head-to-head: Mac editing software ....
If programming presets panic you then you want one of these. We put three Mac editors to the test
Alesis NanoPiano
A teeny weeny box with big piano sounds
Yamaha QY70
A teeny weeny box with big everything!
Symetrix 606 Delay F/x Machine
G-g-g-g-g-great delays-ays-ays-ays-ays
Tascam M-1600
Or M-2400 depending on how many tracks you go for. We review them both right here
Fostex X-14
This multitracker might look minimalist and sound a bargain but what can you actually do with it?
Wanted dead or alive: S'Express Remember that song? What is Mr Moore up to now?
Dave Angel
Angelic sounds from a DJ, remixer, musician and all- round good geezer with a passion for gear, UFOs and all things techie
Biosphere............
If the sun shone 24 hours a day where you lived, how would it affect your music? You'd end up sounding like this guy, that's how
Downtime
Super Discount's Etienne de Crecy is the coolest of French techno dudes. He's got the coolest answers too
60 things to make you go "Mmm...".. A massive helping of advice in some of the more unusual areas of musicmaking. It doesn't get much bigger than this
Making waves
The mysterious world of WAV files, tracker music and PC audio revealed
What the hell is. MIDI?
You reckon you already know, don't you? But you're intrigued, aren't you? Go on, read it. Go on…
Get more from... Logic Audio
It does exactly what it says on the tin
So you want to be a programmer
A professional gives you advice on getting into one of the more interesting areas of the music business
features
AUDITIES This stunning collection of vintage keyboards is currently homeless. Even if you're not a sugar daddy looking for a tax writeoff, feel free to drool over our up-close photos of Chamberlins, analog synths from Moog, ARP, EMS, and Oberheim, and even more exotic noisemakers.
THE ILLBIENT SCENE It's spacey, yet sugar-free. But is it a real movement, or only a media term? Maybe DJ Spooky, Sub Dub, and Byzar have just been listening to too much New York traffic noise.
OLIVE Mmmm-trip-hop beats, dub bass, and clever synth tracks from a pair of technology boffins do the right thing for a sultry female vocalist. Olive's debut CD, Extra Virgin, has everything but the pits.
SAMPLERS RULE! More than simply a musical instrument, more than a production tool, the sampler is emerging as a cultural force. (And the cover of last month's Guitar Player asked, "Who Killed Rock Guitar?" Keyboard readers have a clue.)
SAMPLER HOT TIPS Want to get more lifelike rhythms from sampled loops, trigger a vocal fly-in so it stays in sync, or find a use for those dinky multimedia speakers that came with your computer? We asked the experts how they get more music from their samplers and boy, did we get an earful!
DJ SHADOW With an Akai MPC, a turntable, and an ADAT, this small-town newcomer rocked the world with Endtroducing, a stunning collage of samples and scratches. In this exclusive interview, he tells us how he got started, and reveals a few of his sampling tricks.
Keyboard reports
AKAI MPC2000 A classic sampler/sequencer is upgraded to give musicians sample looping and more, for a lot less.
ENSONIQ ASR-X Not just a sampler and MIDI sequencer with pads - there's an onboard synthesizer too.
YAMAHA A3000 This rackmount sampler features great effects and a friendly operating system.
YAMAHA 03D Digital mixing with mondo EQ, dynamics, effects, and much more at a surprising price.
ENCORE EXPRESSIONIST Your old analog synths can get into the act with this 8-channel MIDI to control voltage converter
WAVES PAZ Even if you're stone deaf, you can make better records with this software- based psychoacoustic analyzer.
SOUNDS New sampling CDs offer resources for acid jazz, techno, and any track that needs funk guitar.
departments
LETTERS Loop-free looping, a skirmish with an operating system, that darn busy signal, fear of copyright, a fresh batch of reader-submitted URLs, and the pen is mightier than the ear.
PLUG IN Sweeping colors for Faithless, lost in the industrial woods with Hanzel Und Gretyl, Erasure returns to the small clubs, a double shot of Martin Duffy (courtesy of Primal Scream and Charlatans), rappin' with Cirrus, Genesis impersonators, and a non-fat remixer from Florida.
TOOLS OF THE TRADE The recording trade, that is. This month we spotlight a new high-end 8-bus mixer from TASCAM, multipurpose sync boxes from MOTU and Opcode, the new ADAT II, a Fostex timecode DAT, and plenty of other musical gizmos and gewgaws.
IN REVIEW CDs from both the inside (Michael Jackson) and the outside (Lifesaver Laboratories, Soma, Jim Beard), plus an instructional Hammond videotape and a book on how money is ruining classical music.
How-to columns
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING by Craig Anderton Golden ears insist they can hear the difference between digital originals and digital copies. What's the truth behind the claims?
NET SMARTS by Dan Barrett There are some great bargains in used gear online - but smart shoppers protect themselves against misrepresentation.
INSIDE THE MUSIC by Dave Stewart If you're convinced that the key to success (in music or anything else) is Believing In Yourself, let Dave turn you into a hard-nosed skeptic.
DANCE MIX by Joey Donatello Tracking vocals in the basement isn't just for those on a Taco Bell budget. Take a peek over Joey's shoulder as he plugs an AKG into a bank of DR4s.
COMPOSING by Richard Leiter More tasty excerpts from a Philip Aaberg CD. We're not seriously suggesting that you steal them, but they're bound to inspire something original.
REEL WORLD by Jeff Rona Ever wonder how a film score composer negotiates a package deal? Or where the money goes? Watch your publishing....
SOLO PIANO by Fred Hersch Unlike Humpty Dumpty, you can take Bach apart and then put him back to- gether again.
CREATIVE OPTIONS by Connor Freff Cochran Sometimes the postman doesn't even ring once. But you can still choose whether to have an attitude.
COVER FEATURE Korg Z1
It's big, it's sexy and, it does the job of a few Prophecys, but is it worth £1,699?
Midiman MiXim 10
A mini mixer, starting this month's trend for the tiny
Alesis Studio 12R
Hi-tech but lo-priced and on the compact side of big
PreSonus Blue Max
A compressor for the minimally minded
Xpression! DPM1 pros
DPM-Deep Purple Monitors... still impressed?
Alesis NanoBass
A bass sound module you can nearly fit in your pocket
dbx 266A and 286A
Two new budget processors from the big boys
Kawai K5000R
The rackmount brother of the popular K5000W
Zoom Studio 1201
A reverb and effects unit with a wet/dry knob, ahem
NEW! Under a ton
Great gear that will give you change from £100
Retro: Oberheim Matrix-12
It might be good, but is it worth the price of murder?
Wanted dead or alive: DAF
Dead as Faraday, or doing astounding fare?
The Prodigy
We talk to the shouty darlings about life, music, com puter games and... oh yes... their worldwide fame and the new album, The Fat Of The Land
Slacker
A hit with Scared, and much more to come. Here's how to avoid the usual dance record clichés
4 Hero
These drum 'n' bass legends lurk behind the names Tom & Jerry and Tek 9, but what are they really like?
What the hell is MIDI? (part 2)
Time to get more involved: we enter the world of MIDI messages and what they do
Get more from... Cubase VST
Tips from the experts to clarify the mysteries of the great and oft-too-easy sequencing program
So you want to be in A&R
Our advice series takes on the world of Artists & Repertoire (and that's not a French restaurant)
Features songwriting
FIONA APPLE
Considering the meteoric rise of electronica, you may be wondering: Where have all the melodies gone? Actually, the art of the song is as strong as ever, as this pair of interviews proves. Fiona's mature outlook belies her age: Check out her views on writing at the piano, writing under pressure, and writing from the heart. And then there's...
SARAH MCLACHLAN
The driving force behind last summer's Lilith Fair tour, this Canadian songstress explains why she didn't play piano onstage, talks candidly about the elusive process of songwriting, and shares a bit of hard-nosed business advice.
SONGWRITING RESOURCES
Shopping your songs will require persistence, but if you've got what it takes, these leads will put your demos in the right hands. Check out a pro's list of industry directories, songwriter or- ganizations, must-visit Web sites, and more!
MASTER CLASS: DROP 2 VOICINGS
Try out this patented technique for finding modem-sounding chord voicings in block chord arrangements.
PHOTEK
Rupert Parkes takes his sweet time in the studio, assembling adventurous drum 'n' bass collages with a minimal sampler setup. His surprising list of sound sources even includes - gasp live sampling sessions.
Keyboard reports
YAMAHA AN1x A new physical modeled analog synth complete with effects and a step sequencer.
CLAVIA NORD LEAD 2 A classic analog modeled synth is updated with 16 voices.
SEER SYSTEMS REALITY A multitimbral, physical modeling synth that lives inside a PC.
ARBORETUM IONIZER A stunning 512 bands of four-way dynamics processing and EQ (in real time) on the Mac.
SHERMAN FILTER BANK A dual analog multimode filter with its own envelope generator and plenty of realtime control.
SOUNDS No, it's not a Q-Tip, it's A Poke in the Ear with a Sharp Stick. Also some authentic oldies on First Call Vintage Keyboards and dance construction kits on Deep House Party.
Departments
LETTERS Sampler choices, mangled masters, budget busters, assorted emendations, and the disc is in the drive (or is it?).
PLUG-IN Crystal Method gets down in the bomb shelter, Dubstar crosses the Atlantic, and Jamie Myerson discovers jungle in America. Plus a Star Trek MIDI controller, darkwave in Chicago, a shameless bit of self-promotion for Mark Vail's new book, and more.
TOOLS OF THE TRADE Summer NAMM was sizzling with hot keyboard gear: new synths and samplers from Clavia, E-mu, Korg, and Quasimidi, the bantamweight Yamaha QY70 and Boss SP-202, MIDI controllers, effects and that's just the hardware. Don't miss our previews of the latest from Steinberg, Sonic-Foundry, Cakewalk, Mixman, and other software movers and shakers.
DISCOVERIES by Titus Levi Take a walk on the pop side with Kate Schrock, Jordan Razowsky Richard Janik, and Floating Opera.
How-to columns
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING by Craig Anderton There's still no standard for multichannel digital audio transfers - but a leading candidate is emerging from the fray.
THE BUSINESS by Kashif When you're ready to start your own independent label, you'll need more than great music. Like maybe some accounting software....
NET SMARTS by Dan Barrett Ever notice how darn long it takes to find stuff on the World Wide Web? Don't miss these turbo tips for streamlining your online time.
DANCE MIX by Joey Donatello Was that basement or bass meant? Take a peek into Joey's dungeon.
COMPOSING by Richard Leiter True classics of bad arranging, and an unintentional ostinato.
SOLO PIANO by Fred Hersch It's 18th Century deconstruction time - we're Bach in the saddle again.
REEL WORLD by Jeff Rona Got a shot at scoring a film? Before you say yes, take a look at how the deal is structured, and work out your costs.
INSIDE THE MUSIC by Dave Stewart How to play in constantly shifting meters without breaking your ankle trying to tap your foot.
CREATIVE OPTIONS by Connor Freff Cochran Why are all those lead weights attached to that kite?
SAMPLING SPECIAL
All this month's reviews are related to samplers. The main bulk of the reviews kick off with a round-up of budget samplers, under £500 (p20); move on to a mid-price sampler head-to-head (p28); and culminate in a prize fight between two high-end samplers (p35)
Ensoniq ASR-X
We take a look at the latest "advanced sampler/ resampler" from Ensoniq to hit the streets
Sample CDs
We compile a comprehensive list of some of the best sample CDs we've reviewed over the years
Retro: Akai S1000
The classic eight-year-old sampler is wearing well
Commercial CDs.....
Not samplers, not sample CDs, but 'normal' CDs
Coldcut
We catch up with the modest techno geniuses ten years on from their success with Yazz and Lisa Stansfield, and watch them surfing the wave of fame triggered off by their latest album, Let Us Play
3 Amigos
They're American and they're over here: we interview Todd Terry, Armand Van Helden and BT about the role they play in the best music from across the pond
Recoil
You might know him as Alan Wilder, ex-Depeche Mode, but a lot of water's passed under the bridge since then and he's changed his name
Downtime.....
SASH! shares his thoughts with FM on Kraftwerk, Puff Daddy and taking refuge in Ibiza.
Technique
What the hell is sampling?
The essential guide to understanding the basics of samplers and sampling
Sampling tips
60 indispensable pieces of advice on all things sample- related, from buying your first machine, to getting the most out of it and what to do when things go wrong
TOY STORY
Raid the toy chest to energize your music with fresh sounds. We experimented with everything from accordions to xylophones and rediscovered what it means to "play" music.
By Steve Oppenheimer
COVER STORY: NOTEWORTHY DEALS
It's a steal! We compare four affordable Windows notation programs that allow musicians of modest means to produce sharp scores and stellar lead sheets. By David M. Rubin
CREATIVE SPACE: CURVE OF THE GROOVE
Serve up a pro-quality "live" recording in a personal studio. Curvature's Jack West shows you how to deliver the goods without destroying your budget.
By Brian Knave
PRO/FILE: Fingertip Finesse
Music City studio percussionist Tom Roady converts to zen-Zendrum, that is.
RECORDING MUSICIAN: Recording Upright Bass
Everybody loves the sound of the acoustic double bass! Capture the warm, woody tones of this classic bottom dweller.
DESKTOP MUSICIAN: In the Director's Chair
Become a post-production prodigy by adding sound to multimedia projects with Macromedia's powerful Director.
TECH PAGE: O Solero Mio
Publish your scores on the World Wide Web with Sunhawk's high-flying Windows software.
REVIEWS
YAMAHA A3000 digital sampler
103 PG MUSIC Band-in-a-Box 7.0 (Win) accompaniment software
110 ALESIS Wedge digital reverb
120 BIAS SFX Machine 1.02 (Mac) DSP plug-in
130 SWEETWATER Grand Piano Collection sample CD-ROM
139 CAKEWALK Pro Audio 6.0 (Win) digital audio sequencer
147 EMAGIC Audiowerk8 PCI audio card
152 BENSON StudioStat 8.2 hybrid close-field monitors
155 ADA Ampulator tube preamp/speaker emulator
LETTERS
Samplers rule, especially when they're under $2,000, plus a few choice words from an Erasure-head, an anti-tumtable terrorist, and a reader from Latvia.
PLUG-IN
The techno pope comes Stateside, Keoki builds a home studio, Kim Fox cooks up some organic pop, an East Coast remix duo cashes in, a piano-repair team from Texas makes global housecalls, and much more.
TOOLS OF THE TRADE
New modular synths, sound modules, an 8-bus mixer, and tons of sounds... these are a few of our favorite tools, Mean- while, contributing editor Robert Lauriston has his finger on Apple's wavering pulse.
how-to columns
DANCE MIX by Joey Donatello
Don't be misled by its name: Remixing is a heckuvalot more than just twiddling knobs and sliders on a mixing console. Joey explains.
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING by Craig Anderton
What can you do when your song is multitracked but the drums sound wimpy? Replace those weak beats, electronically.
NET SMARTS by Dan Barrett
The year in Net. What made the grade on the Web, and what got kicked out of the class. Dan lets loose.
REEL WORLD by Jeff Rona
Slammin' beats aren't just for the dance floor. Jeff talks about the importance of rhythms in film scoring, and serves up some tips and tricks to tighten your tracks.
SOLO PIANO by Fred Hersch
What chart is this? A holiday classic is presented for your soloing pleasure.
COMPOSING by Richard Leiter
There's nothing like a MIDI back-up band when it comes to dividing up the gig money, but there's a lot to love about live players too. How to find them, how to keep them.
INSIDE THE MUSIC by Dave Stewart
Dave gets superstitious, Stevie-style, in this funky lesson. And just to be weird, he throws in a few marimba patterns for good measure.
CREATIVE OPTIONS by Connor Freff Cochran A poignant look at fear, family, and choosing life.
THE YEAR IN GEAR
Every year, manufacturers try to build a better mousetrap - er, sampler. Or multitrack recorder, analog synth, electronic piano, or whatever. Sometimes they're hot, but sometimes they're not. To find out who had musicians beating a path to their door, don't miss our year-end wrap-up.
RECORDS OF THE YEAR
1997 was a booming year in music especially for the keyboard set. So the Keyboard staff, along with several columnists and contributors, thought it would be fun to let folks know which five new records they played most in '97. And why.
MASTER CLASS
Camp Comp. Andy LaVerne gets right to the heart of jazz comping in this master class, with
an emphasis on voicings that sound good, help your soloist, and work every time!
STOMPBOX SERENADE
With all of today's amazing high-tech, low-noise signal-processing gear, only an idiot would plug into a cheesy little guitar pedal. Right? Wrong.
Our "Guide to Stompboxes" explains how these potent noise bombs can be your best friend onstage and in the studio.
ELECTRO ON THE FRINGE
Media terms for music styles are out the door. Three top producer/DJs from around the world discuss their paths down the yellow brick road to rural "techno" towns.
keyboard reports
DUY PLUG-INS
Five, count 'em, five multi-format plug-ins are laid bare in this monster Keyboard Report. From tube and tape simulation to waveshaping, stereo enhancement, and then some, DUY's digital lineup is loaded.
KORG SGProX
Is this the mother of all digital pianos? Korg's new top-of-the-line 88 is put through its paces.
ROLAND RD-600
Roland rolls out their new 88-note digital piano, and the emphasis is on price and performance. Bells and whistles included.
YAMAHA G50
Yeah, it's another guitar-to-MIDI converter, but hold on to your strings. Will this be the device that finally rids synth guitar of its sullied reputation?
MUSICIAN'S POCKET MEMO
This credit-card lookalike can sample over nine minutes (!) of mono audio.
DIGIDESIGN D-FI PLUG-INS
To mangle or not to mangle; Digidesign's new sound-degrading plug-ins for TDM and AudioSuite are ready to sandpaper off those smooth edges.
SOUNDS
Sonny and Michael (formerly of the band of the artist formerly known as...) follow up their hot-selling Funky Ass Loops with Smoov Grooves; AMG delivers a double shot of Terminalhead; and East-West takes you to the big screen with Scoring Tools.
BJÖRK
The volcanos and glaciers of her native Iceland collide in Björk's latest, Homogenic, as her passionate vocals soar over sampled beats and a string octet. In this exciting interview, she reflects on songwriting and bass lines, while keyboardist Mark Bell adds details on the production process.
MASTER CLASS: RUSSELL FERRANTE
Polyrhythms and polychords are the driving force that pro- pels the Yellowjackets' keyboard comping. (And don't for- get the pentatonic lead licks.) If you're shaky on reading the musical examples, you can download the MIDI files from our Web site!
COLLABORATING ON THE INTERNET
An inspiring case study and a golden opportunity for in- trepid Net surfers. Learn step-by-step how to make new friends, develop and market a CD, and memorialize your favorite '70s musical legends all at the same time.
DURAN DURAN
The veteran synth popsters return with a vengeance. Nick Rhodes, Simon LeBon, and Warren Cuccurullo reveal the electronic details behind the making of Medazzaland, a retro-modern mix of sampled loops, space guitar, and analog synths.
1997 KEYBOARD INDEX
No need to shuffle through your stack of issues searching for that elusive feature - it's all in the Index.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
KEY BUY Keyboard announces a new award that will give recognition to outstanding products.
KORG ZI Physical modelling synthesis with lots of polyphony and an interactive front panel.
B-3 WANNABE SHOOTOUT Hands-on tests of the Roland VK-7 and Oberheim OB- 32, plus the latest head-to-head ratings on six drawbar- type organs.
JOMOX XBASE 09 Mucho macho kick, snare, and hat in a knob-laden retro- style box.
WALDORF MICROWAVE II The classic sound of digital wavetable synthesis gets a significant upgrade.
BIAS SEX MACHINE A Premiere-compatible plug-in that lets you mangle your sounds like never before.
SOUNDS Avant weirdness from Fred Frith and bargain-basement beats from Germany and Japan.
LETTERS
Virtual analog vs. the real thing, plus new online resources, advice on securing licenses for tunes, and a few loose ends.
PLUG IN
Brian Transeau is finally making it in the States, Des Broad- bery handles the blue-light specials at U2's PopMart while Howie B. spins between sets, Christ Analogue breaks away from industrial, and Jordan Rudess struts his stuff. Plus late-breaking news from all over.
TOOLS OF THE TRADE
Stroll with us down the aisles at the AES show, but watch your step: You don't want to be buried under the avalanche of digital recording hardware and software. The computer solutions, stand-alone recorders, and plug-in processors are flying thick and fast.
DISCOVERIES by Titus Levi
Rockin' out with Ten Jinn, Balance, Cory Cullinan, the Crüxshadows, A Fifth Column, and the Order Of Dying Knights.
IN REVIEW
French hip-hop and jazz piano, plenty of techno and dark ambient, the latest from Earth, Wind & Fire, a live session with jazz organ great Larry Young, and a book that explains the psychoacoustics of chord changes.
HOW-TO COLUMNS
REEL WORLD by Jeff Rona
Translating from sequence tracks to sheet music for a live orchestra can be a lot trickier than just switching on the printer.
THE BUSINESS by Kashif
When it comes time to publicize your latest CD, don't just grab a megaphone and jump up on a soapbox - read these tips on how the pros do it.
NET SMARTS by Dan Barrett
If you tuned in late, let our online guru bring you up to speed with this checklist of Internet basics.
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING by Craig Anderton
Even a state-of-the-art studio is only as strong as its weak- est link. Isn't it time the lowly cable got a little respect?
SOLO PIANO by Fred Hersch
When the changes of a tune don't go in the expected directions, you may need some special tricks for devel- oping a solo.
CREATIVE OPTIONS by Connor Freff Cochran
What goes around, comes around. But we're the ones who put the candles on the cake.
Preview: Digidesign Pro Tools 24 & Mackie HUI
Yamaha MDF3 MIDI Data Filer
Korg DL8000 Digital Delay
Roland VS880 S2 Upgrade
Emu ES14000 Sampler
Behringer MX32:8:2 Mixer
Demeter HM1 Tube Mic Preamp
Digidesign Slave Driver
Sonic Foundry Acoustic Modeler
Ensoniq PARIS PCI Hard Disk
Recording System
AKG SolidTube Microphone
Boss SP202 Dr Sample
Emagic Logic Audio v3.0
SoundTech ST1602 Mixer
Fostex CDR200 CD Writer
dbx 160S Blue Compressor
DUY Digital Audio Plug-Ins
Viscount EFX100 Multi-Effects
Brief Encounters BCK Footpedals, Atacama Speaker Stands, Dreamwaves Korg Wavestation Soundcards
FEATURES
Promoting Your Band
Ola: Recording Soul At Home
Writing For Animation
CD-R Formats
Alan Wilder Recoil
Retrozone: Oberheim Xpander
SOUND WORKSHOPS
Drum Miking Part 2
Recreating Mix Settings
VL70m Breath Controller Workshop
The Why & When of Processors Pt 4
REGULARS
Crosstalk
Shape Of Things To Come
Sample Shop
Atari Notes
PC Notes
Mac Notes
LETTERS
Fed up with filth, transforming without a turntable, the summer that lasts until November, jazz musicians' special needs, and support for Spock's Beard.
PLUG IN
Portishead abandons sampling, Phil Parlapiano puts the squeeze on Rod Stewart, Speedy J works out in the laboratory, Dmitry gets into the Flow, Alpha talks to horses, Mickey Simmonds fries up some Fish, and a synthesizer theme park goes up against Disney.
TOOLS OF THE TRADE
A software synth that's also a paint program, CDs to burn, a new ribbon controller/arpeggiator, tons of hot soundware, dishes of DATS, a MIDI retrofit, a grab bag of FX, and more!
DISCOVERIES
Dark spirits flow through the music of Susurrus Inanis and the Hybryds.
IN REVIEW
Almost a new Kraftwerk CD, bubbles from the Aquarium, lost in Vapourspace, Dr. Dre gets firm, and Laika is hearing satellites but Steve Roach has returned to Earth. Plus much more....
HOW-TO COLUMNS
NET SMARTS by Dan Barrett
Want to learn more about synthesizers - and see a ton of cool photos from the comfort of your desktop? Don't miss these virtual museum sites.
THE BUSINESS by Kashif
What is a marketing plan? Why do you need one? What in- formation should it contain? And if you can get Eddie Van Halen to play on your CD, will it have crossover potential?
DANCE MIX by Joey Donatello
The Don kicks off a new senes of DJ profiles by recalling the early career moves of Terry Hunter, and inspecting Terry's gear rack too.
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING by Craig Anderton
What's the right sampling rate for your project? 44.1? 48? 96? Or maybe 22.05 is enough. An expert explains why we have so many choices, and which ones are best for which application.
COMPOSING by Richard Leiter
Want to make your sequences sound more lifelike? (Who doesn't?) Try these MIDI production techniques on your next project.
SOLO PIANO by Fred Hersch
Moving deeper into the mysteries of a Bill Evans jazz waltz. Even if you hit a clam, keep that right hand moving along!
INSIDE THE MUSIC by Dave Stewart
Dave's feeling a bit pensive, but he's ready to pounce on some 12/8 syncopations. Are they in 3? In 4? In 6?
CREATIVE OPTIONS by Connor Freff Cochran
You can't step into the same river twice, but sometimes it's not even the river you expected.
FEATURES
THE PROJECT STUDIO
It's the main working environment of serious musicians in the '90s. Welcome to Part One of a new Keyboard series that takes you into the final frontier of personal space.
ERGONOMICS
Step into the studio and sit down. Feeling comfy? No? Then don't miss these tips. From chairs to acoustic tile, we've got a grab bag of useful ideas.
BUY THE RIGHT GEAR
What equipment should you acquire first, and which features will prove the most useful? How do you sift through the hype to make intelligent decisions?
MICROPHONES
No, MIDI won't do everything. (Big surprise.) Sooner or later you're going to need to lay down some vocal or live instrument tracks.
HYBRID RECORDING TECHNIQUES
From MIDI to computer, from computer to ADAT, from ADAT to analog reel-to-reel - learn how to get the most out of each medium while avoiding conflicts and snafus.
MASTER CLASS: GEORGE DUKE
Whether it's funk or jazz, this headlining keyboardist puts it in the pocket. Try out a few of his advanced voicings and syncopations in your next arrangement.
DREAM THEATER: DIARY OF A SONG
These pages from the diary of hot prog keyboardist Derek Sherinian show exactly how "Lines in the Sand" got drawn.
KEYBOARD, REPORTS
DIGITAL PERFORMER 2.1 (MAC)
A veteran program is outfitted with native audio, plug-in support, new MIDI features, and more.
ALESIS WEDGE
Tired of reaching for the rack to tweak the ambience? This tabletop reverb might be just the ticket.
FATAR STUDIOLOGIC KEYBOARDS
61-, 76-, and 88-note MIDI controllers that don't cost an arm and a leg.
ALESIS NANOPIANO
Lots of sounds in a tiny box - and not just piano sounds, either.
SERGE MODULAR
The grandfather of real analog is back, with some exotic new modules.
ACOUSTICS MODELER PLUG-IN (DIRECTX)
Sonic Foundry reinvents the reverb - but you'll need a Pentium.
SOUNDS
Bill Bruford does both audio and MIDI drums, plus some hot Latin percussion and .WAV files for ravers.
LETTERS
Big fuzz, too many acronyms, more on mastering, the fine print, and the world's most convoluted file transfer routine.
PLUG IN
Bentley Rhythm Ace gets funky, Air flails away, Trackmasters get firm, the Moog Cookbook revisits the '70s, 808 State keeps changing, Tony Moran hangs in the bigtime - plus news and shocking photos.
TOOLS OF THE TRADE
New synthesizers soft and hard, major upgrades, digital audio editing for multimedia, a real tube processor, CD recorders, and much more! Plus Robert Lauriston on the latest in removables.
DISCOVERIES
Pulse-pounding rhythms from Valerie Ghent and Tom Roady.
IN REVIEW
New CDs: apocalyptic, bizarre, brilliant, intricate, hauntingly memorable and those are just the adjectives!
HOW-TO COLUMNS
REEL WORLD by Jeff Rona
Running the Hollywood maze to land a TV theme assignment.
DANCE MIX by Joey Donatello
What's new in hardware designed especially for dance artists?
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING by Craig Anderton
The humble direct box still has an important role in today's home studio.
COMPOSING by Richard Leiter
The once-derided jingle is making a comeback. But listen close....
SOLO PIANO by Fred Hersch
Analyzing the form of great tunes will help you write your own.
INSIDE THE MUSIC by Dave Stewart
Polyrhythms galore - plus the world's smallest guitar (sounds good to us...).
NET SMARTS by Dan Barrett
Want to download some synth patches? Check out these sites.
FEATURES
BLOW OFF THE RECORD BIZ
Yes, you can make a living playing your own music without landing a record deal. All it takes is talent, perseverance, and a willingness to explore some unusual venues.
PROJECT STUDIO: MIXING
It all comes together after the tracks are laid down. Follow these 12 steps to great mixes.
PROJECT STUDIO: EFFECTS
Without digital effects, music recorded in a project studio would be pretty dull. Don't miss this collection of hot tips on all the basic effects!
AES NEW GEAR GIVEAWAY
Last chance! Win an entire studio worth over $19,000! Includes a high-end Mac, software, mixer, synth, furniture, and more.
MASTER CLASS: DAVID MAXWELL
Try out some deep blues licks, as played by a burnin' Otis Spann protégé and James Cotton sideman.
WOMEN IN REMIXING
Find out how Teri Bristol, Tyler Stone, and The Angel got their big breaks, and how they work their studio magic.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
YAMAHA MU100R
The ultimate XG module features a ton of sounds, a VL solo synth board, and more.
NOVATION SUPER BASS STATION
That classic analog monophonic sound in a 1U rack, with lots of knobs and an audio input too.
ZOOM 1201
Reverb and more in a friendly, if not very programmable, rack box.
DOEPFER A-100
An affordable modular synth for patch cord jockeys every- where.
SOUNDS
With Malice toward all, some tasty drum 'n' bass, more bass, and a bolder granular set.
LETTERS
Readers sound off on the pros and cons of printing the
naughty bits. Plus more on foam, chestnuts, and radioactivity.
PLUG IN
Alan Wilder in post-Depeche mode, synth pop reborn via Komputer, Lords Of Acid, Boymerang, and all the news we could cram in.
TOOLS OF THE TRADE
E-mu OS and Mac hardware upgrades, a new Spirit mixer, Midisoft ware, audio file conversion for Windows, DSP plug- ins, and much more!
DISCOVERIES
Ceremonial and architectural music from two unsung am- bient artists.
HOW-TO COLUMNS
REEL WORLD by Jeff Roma
Once the network has a particular sound in their heads, you may need a little subterfuge if you want to avoid legal problems.
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING by Craig Anderton
The humble direct box still has an important role in today's home studio.
NET SMARTS by Dan Barrett
Shopping for a new synth? Start with some research online!
COMPOSING by Richard Leiter
You don't need a whip or a pair of handcuffs to use the dominant-not if we're talking about the versatile V7 chord.
INSIDE THE MUSIC by Dave Stewart
Almost any three notes can be a starting point for an in- spired and colorful piece. Plus: No references whatever to Elvis!
CREATIVE OPTIONS by Connor Freff Cochran
How intimidating could a set of conga drums be, anyway?
FEATURES
ADVENTURES IN BONDAGE
David Arnold not only scored the new James Bond flick, he has a CD of Bond remixes out. Plus, Moby reveals how he transformed the James Bond theme into a techno extravaganza.
PROJECT STUDIO: MONITORING
In computerland, they say "garbage in, garbage out." But in the studio, it's "garbage out" (of the speakers, that is) "garbage on" (your master tape). Don't miss this primer on a pair of cones that could make or break your career.
PROJECT STUDIO: MASTERING
What exactly does a mastering engineer do to prep your tape for the CD pressing plant? Can you do it yourself, or would that be a disastrous mistake?
MASTER CLASS: GREGG ROLIE
Recently inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Rolie looks back on his years with Santana and Journey and spins out some of his patented keyboard licks.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
UEI METASYNTH (MAC)
A radical new audio paintbox for the Mac.
ROLAND V-DRUMS
A new standard in positional head sensing, plus a mega- ton of punchy percussion samples.
DIGIDESIGN PRO TOOLS 24 (MAC)
Benchmark s/n, and the 4.1 software update too.
DIGITECH STUDIO S100
Versatile effects processing at a surprisingly low price.
TASCAM DA-302
Dub-ble your fun, it's two-two-two DAT decks in one.
SOUNDS
Crunchy guitars from Pro-Rec, funky grooves from Time+Space, and hot R&B styling from East-West.
REVIEWS
COVER FEATURE: Yamaha EX5 ..................20 The workstation that does everything... really!
Digitech S100 A rack full of effects, and it's a beautiful blue
Arboretum MetaSynth A painting program for sounds. Let us explain....
Korg TR-Rack At last, Korg has stuffed the Trinity into a rack module
Waves EasyWaves A collection of effects plug-ins at a bargain price
Zoom Rhythm Trak 234 A new drum machine from effects men Zoom
Digitech Talker It's tiddly, it's silver and it makes you sound odd
Echo Darla card An input/output card that will surprise you
Group test: MIDI-to-CV converters Units from Doepfer, EES and Kenton go head-to-head
Under a ton Eight things to buy with just 100 notes... each
Retro: Yamaha CS10 Only a monosynth but it sparked a small revolution
PROFILES
Lionrock They're roaring up the charts and they talk to us
Robert Miles He's left Children behind but has he grown up?
Roedelius The pioneer of the 70s is 64 and he likes Aphex Twin
Aqua Bassino Jazzy house and Gallic vibes... from Edinburgh?
TECHNIQUE
Abra-card-abra! Unleash the potential of your lowly soundcard
What the hell is... gating? And it's nothing to do with the Country Code
Big beat boutique How to recreate analogue drum sounds
REVIEWS
Preview: Novation Supernova Synth
Dynaudio BM15A Powered Monitors
SPL 2-Channel Charisma Processor
Fostex DP8 Digital Switcher
Joemeek VC5 EQ
Zoom RhythmTrak Drum Machine
Audio Technica 30 Series Mics
Roland VS840 Digital 8-Track
Blue Chip AX100 MIDI Guitar Converter
MOTU FreeStyle Mac Sequencer
Mediatrix 3DXG PC Soundcard
Alesis ADAT XT20 Digital 8-Track
Clavia Nord Modular Synth: Part 2
Tascam TMD8000 Digital Console
Yamaha EX5 Synth
Access Virus Synth
Beyerdynamic MCD100 Digital Mic
Digitech Vocalist Performer
Brief Encounters: Audio Technica ATM23HE Dynamic Instrument Mic, Fostex COP2 converter, Soundtech PL602 Power Amp
FEATURES
Bob Moog
Bill Laswell: Reshaping Miles Davis
Vincent Hill: Therapeutic Music
John Oram
SOUND WORKSHOPS
Effective Drum Programming: Part 4
The Truth About Demos: Part 1
The Basics Of Digital
Practical Studio
Soundproofing: Part 4
Making A CD With Toast
REGULARS
Crosstalk
Shape Of Things To Come
Frankfurt '98 Show Report
Sample Shop
Demo Doctor
Free Ads
Mail Order: Books, Videos, CDs
Classified Ads
Sounding Off
LETTERS
An incredible value, an incredible cost, an incredible archive, an incredible oversimplification, plus insults and dilemmas.
PLUG IN
What was hot at the Winter Music Conference in Miami Beach? What's it like to play keys with Elton John? What's new with Gentle Giant and Deep Purple? What did Emma Townsend learn from her father the guitar geezer? And more.
TOOLS OF THE TRADE
A new 88-key master controller, realtime audio for Max, DirectX plug-ins, and a Hammond module with drawbars, plus vintage stompboxes, sample CDs, effects automation via MIDI, and selected hardware and software upgrades.
DISCOVERIES by Titus Levi
Undiscovered talent in L.A.? Believe it.
IN REVIEW
Those impetuous musicians are releasing CDs again! Get the scoop on Gary Numan, Sneaker Pimps, and other talents.
HOW-TO COLUMNS
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING by Craig Anderton
The feel factor in digital audio multitracking - it's just a silly millisecond later. Plus: How to get a feel.
NET SMARTS by Dan Barrett
The surf's always up for our Internet wizard, as he scouts some super-duper sites readers recommended.
DANCE MIX by Doug Beck
How to get a slammin' groove with layered loops and even - gasp! - shareware MIDI files.
REEL WORLD by Jeff Roma
Style and aesthetics in film scoring have changed over the years, but simplicity is always the key.
COMPOSING by Richard Leiter
From Gilbert & Sullivan to Lennon & McCartney, two heads are better than one.
SOLO PIANO by Fred Hersch
An original tune inspired by Bach and Thelonious Monk, com- plete with blowing changes.
INSIDE THE MUSIC by Dave Stewart
In a Gothic cathedral - ominous setting indeed - Dave dis- covers some luminous, yet sweaty African polyrhythms.
FEATURES
BIT WARS
When it comes to digital audio, size does matter - or does it? Step right up for a revealing tour of the pros and cons of 16-, 20-, and 24-bit systems.
DIGITAL DEMYSTIFIED
What's the magic that turns music into numbers? Sampling rate, bit resolution, and more.
UPGRADE FEVER
The specs don't tell the whole story. In the real world, other factors come into play. What happens when you try to put 24-bit audio on a 16-bit CD? 48 LISTENING TESTS
Do you need golden ears to hear the difference? Sit in with our experts (some golden-eared, some not) and find out.
24-BIT/96kHz CONVERTERS
Who makes them, and what do they cost?
MASTER CLASS: DR. JOHN
It just doesn't get any more real than this. Find out how Mac Rebennack does that lowdown piano voodoo, and read through his soulful renditions of classic New Orleans tunes.
ARMAND ARMAND VAN HELDEN
He's not satisfied with remixing Tori Amos, Daft Punk, and the Rolling Stones: His first solo CD establishes his hip-hop credentials too. Armand even confirms the money rumors.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
CLAVIA NORD MODULAR
All you need is a PC to turn this knob-laden box into a completely user-configurable modular synth.
KORG N1 & N5
Arpeggiators, realtime sound controls, and a gentle user interface make these two synths a gas to play.
AKAI DPS12
A stand-alone digital recorder that breaks the 8-track barrier, plus removable media and optional effects.
GROOVEMAKER & MIXMAN STUDIO
Mix it up on your PC with these two inexpensive, in- teractive multitrack playback engines.
DIGITECH TALKER
Pick a setting, feed in a couple of signals, and watch their eyes light up when they hear this futuristic stompbox.
SOUNDS
Guitar licks from a Russian neurosurgeon, ethnic rock from France, and a double dose of doomsday drumming.
LETTERS
Pumped on the Web, copyright basics, grieving for the joystick, and upgrade woes.
PLUG IN
Dub Pistols hit the bull's-eye, SXSW is all over the map, Towa Tei is on the boat, Brooks & Dunn are on the road, Mark Mangold is in the spotlight, Night Ranger is back, and God Lives Underwater.
TOOLS OF THE TRADE
A digital mixer at a breakthrough price, an analog synth on the Mac, an 88-key workstation, a MIDI controller with knobs, plus hot flashes from Frankfurt: a new ReBirth, plug-ins, high-end synthesis, samplers, and a whole lot more.
IN REVIEW
Roll over, Beethoven! Everything from mangled classics to new age and prog, plus books on music theory and interactive programming in Max.
HOW-TO COLUMNS
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING by Craig Anderton
Sometimes a sequence sounds bad not because it's too "robotic" but because the timing has gotten too sloppy.
DANCE MIX by Joey Donatello
When you're hired to do a remix, first you have to pump up the vocal. Here's how.
INSIDE THE MUSIC by Dave Stewart
Dave goes shopping, becomes a magazine publisher, and then, for dessert, envisions several uses for a fragmentary chord voicing.
NET SMARTS by Dan Barrett
Are you one of the three remaining musicians on the planet who doesn't have a Web site? It's not too late!
COMPOSING by Richard Leiter
Watch over Richard's shoulder as a songwriting collab- oration takes shape.
SOLO PIANO by Fred Hersch
Follow along as Fred analyzes the changes of last month's tune and then runs a motif through the mill.
REEL WORLD by Jeff Rona
Mixing for film presents some unique challenges. Learn how it's done from expert engineer Alan Meyerson (As Good As It Gets).
WILLIAM ORBIT
Find out why Madonna tapped this techno pioneer to mastermind her latest album: We've got exclusive interviews with both him and her!
MASTER CLASS: ADAM HOLZMAN
Outside voicings plus burning funk grooves equals Miles of attitude.
WALLFLOWERS
Rami Jaffee finds the delicate balance "between playing pads and being really noodly?" And he learned by cop- ping licks from the masters of rock keyboard.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
ENSONIQ PARIS
Multitrack recording on the Mac or PC, complete with a hardware control surface.
KORG D8
Eight tracks of uncompressed digital audio at a new low price.
E-MU E-SYNTH
Full sampling, ROM sounds, and a 48-track sequencer.
TC ELECTRONIC FIREWORK
Not just another high-end multi-FX processor.
OBERHEIM MC3000
An 88-note weighted-action controller with plenty of zones and sliders.
OBERHEIM MINIGRAND
A great-sounding digital piano in an unassuming little box.
SYMBOLIC SOUND KYMA
The ultimate in user-definable sound synthesis and processing.
SOUNDS
Latin Percussion Ensembles and Jungle Warfare.
LETTERS
A Master Tracks lifesaver, square one for Gina, keyboard training made painless, a suggestion for manufacturers, and assorted snide comments and heartfelt pleas.
PLUG IN
Richard Carpenter does it his way, Jeff Palmer brings the Hammond to Berklee, Deep Forest samples everything, Spock's Beard rules prog metal, and Sasha & Digweed dig Manhattan. Plus hot flashes from hither and yon.
TOOLS OF THE TRADE
New and noteworthy: Novation's polyphonic Supernova, the CreamWare Audiobahn A/D/A, Cubase VST and Sample Wrench updates, dbx dynamics processing, a GM soft synth for any soundcard, an Allen & Heath 4-bus mixer, 8-track record- ing for Windows, plus new sounds, and a tube stompbox.
4ll
Don't miss our brand new hi-tech tips and tricks section! This month: Flash back with Jeff Beck, build your own knob controller, download some free plug-ins, get low with synth programming, banish dreaded mixer gunk, and much more.
DISCOVERIES by Titus Levi
After ten years of columns, Titus bids farewell with profiles on eight hardworking artists.
IN REVIEW
Morcheeba calms down, Kenny Wemer finds the right balance, Garbage piles it on, and the Grassy Knoll give it their best shot.
HOW-TO COLUMNS
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING by Craig Anderton
When setting up the EQ for your next mix, don't neglect the built-in parametric in your synth's effects section.
NET SMARTS by Dan Barrett
Putting your music up on the World Wide Web might be a lot easier - and better-sounding - than you think.
DANCE MIX by Doug Beck 2DANCE
It doesn't have to be an 808 to be great: Here's a new way to get dynamic grooves out of any old drum machine.
COMPOSING by Richard Leiter
Sometimes what sounds like a wrong note is just exactly right.
INSIDE THE MUSIC by Dave Stewart
If you think Dave goes out on a limb occasionally, you may not recall Mutt Stone, who wrote for us back in - when was it again, Dave?
REEL WORLD by Jeff Rona
High-end hardware upgrades for a studio where scoring to picture is the name of the game
FEATURES
SOFT SYNTHS
Now you can get sounds out of your computer that you never dreamed possible. We installed and tested the leading programs, but we didn't stop there: Read all about the underlying technological issues, and dis- cover a ton of great shareware!
MASTER CLASS: MORRIS HAYES
As the sole keyboardist working for "the Artist," Morris Hayes has his hands full. Read all about how he creates a full band sound with a minimum of gear, and then get your hands on some of his deep grooving licks.
GARY NUMAN
It's been a long and winding road since "Cars," but this synth-pop pioneer has the pedal to the metal and he's geared up for a comeback.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
ENSONIQ ZR-76 A workstation that captures your inspired moments.
FOSTEX FD-4 Hard disk recording has never been more affordable.
dbx MC-6 MINI-COMP Squeeze your tracks into shape with this budget compressor.
FILTER PLUG-IN ROUNDUP Why be satisfied with mere EQ when you can stir-fry your tracks with this sizzling plug-in software? Check out Opcode's fusion:Filter, Steinberg's Free Filter VST, and the Waldorf D-Pole.
SOUNDS A perfect 10 for Symphony of Voices, plenty of bang from Titanium Rhythms, and a bushel of bouzoukis.
LETTERS
Sample clearance explained, the failings of digital pianos, advice for a DJ-turned-composer, and love letters.
PLUG IN
Cutting-edge electronica with Steve Stoll, the return of Real Life, sampling with A Tribe Called Quest, life on the Lilith Fair, Kraftwerk tour news, and more.
TOOLS OF THE TRADE
NemeSys GigaSampler ships, Robert Lauriston exposes the PC market, a new Technics workstation, a half-rack Generalmusic piano module, and a Mac-based synth.
411
The latest tips, tricks, and technical information. This month: How to delay your synth layers, alternate some triads, catch the right bus, and find free downloads.
IN REVIEW
Goodies from the Mob, Gustav Mahler gets postmodern, Gloria Estefan gets a ride on an elephant, and Nord Modular owners get a whole book of programming tips.
HOW-TO COLUMNS
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING by Craig Anderton
Whether you're producing your own songwriter demos or bringing in vocalists for projects, you'll appreciate these production tips.
NET SMARTS by Dan Barrett
Get Real! Using RealNetworks' RealSystem G2, you can get your music, video, and media up on the Web.
SOLO PIANO by Fred Hersch
Me? Anxious? Performance anxiety can affect anybody at any time. Fred offers some tips on how to overcome its debilitating effects and improve your stage life.
INSIDE THE MUSIC by Dave Stewart
Before bidding his readers farewell after nearly 13 years of columns, Dave laments the return of old drum machine sounds and dinosaur rock bands, and resurrects one of the best Keyboard Soundpages ever, "Henry & James."
DANCE MIX by Joey Donatello
If you've never experienced the bliss of pumping a track through a filter and fondling those cutoff and resonance knobs, Joey has news for you.
REEL WORLD by Jeff Rona
What are the new film composers writing? Better you should ask what they ought to be writing. Jeff offers insight into the problems facing film composer wanna-bes.
FEATURES
ADAT LIGHTPIPE CARD ROUNDUP
Welcome to the hybrid studio: Now you can integrate ADATS, computer-based hard disk recorders, digital mixers, and other lightpipe-compatible gear into one amazingly flexible and powerful music system. But only if you've got the right card....
SYNC BOX ROUNDUP
When digital audio starts flying around a studio, the potential for glitches grows. Check out these four popular audio/video synchronizers.
SHAREWARE EXTRAVAGANZA
Want to make more music on your Windows PC without taking out a home loan? Here are more than a dozen powerful, reliable music programs you can download and try out.
GRAVITY KILLS
An exclusive in-studio interview with keyboardist Doug Firley during the making of Gravity Kills' latest CD, Perversion.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
E-MU AUDITY 2000
A new synth module loaded with analog samples, a dual effects processor, and a slew of bpm-based sync features.
STEINBERG WAVELAB
Stereo audio editing and CD burning for Windows, all in one package.
YAMAHA P-200
A classy digital piano for the pro.
WAVES EASYWAVES
If you need a quick squeeze, a boost, or some easy (reverb) tail, check out this effects plug-in suite.
SOUNDS
AMG Komputer: Inside, Best Service Dance Mega Synth, and Korg ZSC-01 card for Z1.
REVIEWS
COVER: Quasimidi Sirius
A do-everything synth with a built-in vocoder
Access Virus
This digital rack synth thinks it's analogue. Weird
Ensoniq ZR-76
Find out how this hefty workstation weighs up
Korg N1R
Think N5 keyboard compressed into a rack... and some
TL Audio Ivory VP5050
Valves help this preamp compressor do its thing
Alesis Point Sevens
More monitors? They must be worth reviewing then
Plug-in round-up.
20 Software add-ons rounded up and rated (or slated)
Steinberg ReBirth V2
The hugely popular sequencer gets a new look
Revolve 100m
See if this ReBirth clone is as good as the real thing
Retro AS-1
A software sequencer that'll take you back a few years
Under a ton
More studio accessories for less than £100
Retro: Cheetah MS6
The synth that highlighted the British synth industry
PROFILES
Kirsty Hawkshaw.
Get a taste for her unique chilled out ambient sound
Space
We talk electronics with Space's resident tech-head
Blak Twang
Meet the representative of the UK hip hop scene
The Orb
Alex Paterson chats about greatest hits and Dean Martin
TECHNIQUE
Making more of your music
Helpful hints on monitoring and synth tweaking
What the hell is... mastering
Whether it's DATS or CDs, we give you the lowdown
REVIEWS
COVER: Roland JX-305 GrooveSynth Instant gratification from Roland's groove-machine
Spirit Folio FX8 Eight channels' worth of mixing bliss
Korg ZSC-01 A sound card for the highly praised Z1 synth
Roland SC-880Pro Sound Canvas textures to whack in your rack
Gem Pro 2 RealPiano 76 keys and about 3 tons of perfect piano modelling
Yamaha A3000 MkII You thought it was superb already? Think again
Roland XP-60 An affordable XP-80 with some smart improvements
Sonic Foundry ACID A program that makes PC music-making simple
Cakewalk V7 The popular sequencer is improved yet further
Sony PlayStation Yasashi Fluid Discover more about making music on the PlayStation
RSS Micro BPM It counts your beats and boosts your headphones
Vestax CDX-12 Chuck those LPs and turntables away. CD is the future
Under a ton Strapped for cash? Check out these gadgets
Retro: E-mu SP1200 The drum sampler that's a hip hop classic
PROFILES
Josh Wink Can the man go higher than Higher State?
187 Lockdown The speed garage kings come out of the shadows
The Bowling Green He's in the Velvet Goldmine movie and he makes music
Skinny The men behind one of this year's most interesting LPs
TECHNIQUE
Classic track: Orbital's Chime A new series showing you how big tunes were made
Making more of your music A guide to getting more out of your existing set-up
Mad sounds How to create weird effects on your synthesiser
What the hell is... mixing? There's a lot more to it than twiddling knobs
Interface An antidote to your studio troubles
FEATURES
NEW FACES IN JAZZ PIANO
Talent is busting out all over - meet Diana Krall, Cyrus Chestnut, Brad Mehldau, Geoff Keezer, Benny Green, and Loston Harris, and check out a few of their amazing trio CDs.
MAC MUSIC SHAREWARE
Visionary music software you can try for free. Mutate, convert, and play back your audio, download a studio in a box, calculate MIDI delays, or synthesize some new sounds. Plus System utilities!
MASTER CLASS: EVOLUTIONARY VOICINGS, PART II
An advanced lesson: How to apply Barry Harris's unique scale-based approach to jazz chords to well-known tunes. And yes, we've got more online MIDI files.
KEYBOARD REPORTS
SEK'D 2496 RECORDING SOFTWARE (PC) Are you ready to step up to a professional record- ing package?
TC WORKS MASTERX A TDM plug-in that puts the finishing touch on mixes.
LEXICON MPX 100 EFFECTS PROCESSOR High-quality multi-effects at a new low price.
ZOOM RHYTHMTRAK 234 A low-cost drum machine with some advanced features.
SOUNDS Three new sampleware packages: llio Entertainments TranceFusion, Big Fish Breakbeat, and Wizoo T-Rex.
STUDIO SENSE
MIKING BACKGROUND VOCALS Gather 'round the microphone, roll out the carpet, and crank up the EQ.
BASS & KICK IN A MIX Stereo placement, subharmonic enhancement, and checking the mix.
SIDECHAIN GATING Mute automation, instant arpeggiators, bigger kicks, and other useful tricks.
HOW-TO COLUMNS
COMPOSING by RICHARD LEITER Developing a melodic hook, adding live tracks to MIDI, and a new way to use a compressor.
DANCE MIX by DOUG BECK Is your groove just lying there? Try pepping it up with some judiciously applied delay.
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING by CRAIG ANDERTON Don't automatically reach for the normalization command. Especially when you're mastering a whole CD, normalizing may hurt more than it helps.
REEL WORLD by JEFF RONA When you're ready to hire an orchestra for your next film- score gig, don't do it yourself: Hire a music contractor.
LETTERS Sloppy processors, musical graphics shareware, and a fan of the Do-Re-Mi, but not the demise of music as we know it.
PLUG IN SemiSonic mikes up a junk piano, Tom Coster goes vintage, Dag gets funky, and Reginald Robinson crusades for rag- time. Plus a portable Hammond and assorted news tidbits.
TOOLS OF THE TRADE iMac news, new loops for Acid, Finale 98, a 24/96 board from Creamware, T.C. Electronic's Finalizer Express, a Yamaha grand with MIDI and a tone module, and much more!
411 Synth programming tricks, more free VST plug-ins, MPEG explained, a classic Steve Winwood album, a musical screensaver, and that's not all....
FEATURES
32 TIPS YOU CAN'T LIVE WITHOUT From sequencing to marketing, from sampling to song- writing we asked our team of experts to share their secret techniques for getting better music onstage and in the studio.
MASTER CLASS: TONY Z Tales of life in the trenches as a blues organist, plus a lesson on chord voicings.
BALANCED POWER Can cleaning up your AC line current really cut the noise in vour studio?
KEYBOARD REPORTS
YAMAHA EX5 Sequencing, sampling, a ribbon controller, FDSP syn- thesis, and more in this feature-packed workstation.
EVENT ELECTRONICS LAYLA Plenty of analog and digital I/O, plus sync and MIDI, in a cross-platform audio interface.
LINE 6 AMP FARM No, Pro Tools isn't a Fender Tweed - but with this. plug-in it'll fool most of the people most of the time.
MAGIX MUSIC STUDIO MIDI sequencing and audio recording for the PC in an affordable software package.
KEYFAX PHAT-BOY Instant knob control for General MIDI synths - or any other kind.
SOUNDS Things That Go Bump in the Night and Vintage Timetraveler.
STUDIO SENSE
MASTER: COMPRESSING A MIX Give your master tapes that radio-ready presence.
PROCESS: MONO TO STEREO Spread out those mono tracks with some tried-and-true processing techniques.
PRODUCE: RUNNING THE SESSION Artists and session players giving you headaches?
HOW-TO COLUMNS
DIGITAL HOME RECORDING by CRAIG ANDERTON Should you upgrade to Windows 98? Which of its features mean the most to musicians?
DANCE MIX by JOEY DONATELLO Not nasty enough? Take a trip to lo-fi heaven.
NET SMARTS by DAN BARRET Notation formats for the Web are not yet publication quality, but they're getting better.
COMPOSING by RICHARD LEITER If you're arranging for backup vocalists, you'll need these styles in your bag of tricks.
REEL WORLD by JEFF RONA Recording musicians from around the world for a Hans Zimmer score.
LETTERS More grooves, studio raves, distressing departures, and a few tiny mistakes.
PLUG IN Expansion Union sharpens the Blade, Gearwhore pounds the pavement, and on tap with Spinal Tap.
TOOLS OF THE TRADE Beat-oriented FX, MIDI routing, a portable digital piano, 24-bit recording, software audio processing, a new sampler, and a whole lot more.
411 A career you may not have considered, what the numbers mean, envelope programming, a landmark Stevie Wonder album, a filter gadget, and answers to reader questions.
CDs full of remixes, jazz piano, ambient, and world music, plus a fact-packed book on starting your own Web site.
Reviews
AKG C1000 Back-Electret Microphone
Alesis Q20 Multi-Effects Unit
ATC A7 Monitors
Boss DR202 Rhythm Machine
Digitech 2120 Guitar Preamp/Effects Unit
Ensoniq ASRX Pro Sampling Workstation
Koblo Vibra 9000 Mac Software Synth
Korg NIR Synth Module
Mackie HUI Control Surface For Digital Audio Workstations
Musitek Midiscan Score-to-MIDI Conversion PC Software
Nemesys Gigasampler PC Software Sampler
Pilchner Schoustal Acoustic X Acoustic Optimisation PC Software
Roland G1000 Arranger Keyboard
Spirit 328 Digital Mixer
Yamaha FSIR Synth Module
Yamaha SW1000XG Audio/MIDI PCI Card
Technique
20 Tips: Using Microphones if your music involves acoustic instruments or voices, the ultimate quality of your recordings depends entirely on your microphones and what you do with them - put them in the wrong place and you might as well be using cocoa tins and string. We provide some top tips.
Creative Sampling: Part 1
These days, samplers are the electronic musician's bread and butter but they need not be used in commonplace ways. The first part of a short series looks at ways to spice up your tracks with samples from unusual sources.
Reverse Reverb The Digital Way
Reverse reverb is a distinctive effect that can really make your track stand out, but while it's easy to create using an open-reel analogue recorder, the process is less obvious with digital audio recording systems. Nevertheless, it can be done....
Features
Daniel Miller: His Home Studio & Mute Records Boss of the highly successful and determinedly independent Mute Records, Daniel Miller is one of the UK music industry's unsung stars. We celebrate 20 years of Mute with the man himself and take a rare tour of Miller's superb home studio.
50 Christmas Buys For Musicians There are loads of handy gadgets out there, every one of them more desirable than socks or aftershave. Take a look at our selection of stocking fillers for musicians.
Tracks: Steve Levine Producing The Honeyz The doyen of digital, producer Steve Levine, talks about how he put together the recent Top Ten R&B hit for the Honeyz, 'Finally Found', in his home studio.
PC Musician: Optimising PC Hard Drives For Audio You may have the fastest SCSI drive in the world, but this doesn't automatically ensure a blistering MIDI+Audio performance. We look at the best ways to set up your hard drive for digital audio recording.
Moving To Computer-Based Audio Recording: Part 1 In the first part of a new series which aims to help you make a painless transition to computer-based digital audio recording, we explain the importance of making the right decisions before you buy a new system.
Craig Leon: Recording Blondie's New Album More than 15 years after the release of their last album, The Hunter, four of the original members of Blondie are about to make a comeback with a brand new album. Long-time friend and producer Craig Leon describes how this latest offering was recorded.
John O'Connor: Composing For King Of The Hill John O'Connor said farewell to the UK music business with the million-selling single 'Star Trekkin'. Now living in the USA, he's one of the principal composers for the cartoon series King Of The Hill, as well as a successful recording artist in his own right.
Retrozone: Korg DW8000 Synth Back in 1985, a synth was nothing if it was not digital, and Korg's DW8000 was billed as "more than digital". For this reason it has been widely neglected in the current analogue revival, although it has much to recommend it - including a substantial amount of analogue circuitry!
Mac and PC: To Switch or Not To Switch Wondering whether to switch platforms so you can run that cool software? Here's what you need to know.
Windows Emulation Software Can you really run Windows music software on a Mac?
Master Class: Two-Fisted Funk Dig into these syncopated two-hand patterns. If listeners close their eyes, they'll think you're Stevie Wonder.
Hot Tips: Alesis QS Modulation, effects sends, ways to simulate filter reso- nance-great new sounds are waiting to be discovered!
A Danny Saber Remix Heating up a Busta Rhymes song for the Rug Rats movie.
studio sense
Miking Acoustic Guitar Just in time for your next session- mic choice and placement for loads of different guitar tones.
Recording Yourself When you're not only the producer but also the solo artist, it's a juggling act.
Controlling Effects with MIDI These power user tips will help you get more out of almost any effects setup.
keyboard reports
Novation Supernova Analog heaven in a rack, with knobs and tons of effects.
Cakewalk Metro 4.5 (Mac) A respected Mac sequencer gets a powerful facelift.
Panasonic WR-DA7 A 32-channel digital mixer with EQ and dynamics.
KRK V8 Monitors Powered two-way monitors that do more than rock.
Sony DPS-V55 A four-in, four-out effects processor for the studio.
Sounds Zero-G Chemical Beats, Best Service XX-Large Extreme 2, Zero-G Twisted City
departments
Letters Readers enlighten us, jump up on soapboxes, and generally try to pin down the meaning of life.
411 Hot artists, weird science, good advice, nostalgia, Web resources, late-breaking news, and more. New products start on page 16!
In Review New CDs from players, samplists, and pop stars -plus a book you won't want to miss.
Behind the Scenes
Product support specialists are used to handling tough questions, but some days....
how-to columns
Digital Home Recording by Craig Anderton
Adding sampled drums after the other tracks can be tricky, but it's not impossible.
Basics by Jim Aikin
Want to set up a MIDI music system, and not sure where to start? Start here.
Dance Mix by Doug Beck
Don't panic if you have to remix your remix.
Composing by Richard Leiter
A film composer offers words of wisdom on pads and ethnic instruments.
Reel World by Jeff Rona
Step by step through the process of creating the theme for a new drama series on CBS.
features
Budget Studio Buyer's Guide You don't have to win the lottery to outfit your studio. Find what you need and learn what to look for.
Master Class: Jazz with Teeth Scott Kinsey shows off some hot licks and does a little patch morphing.
Natalie Merchant
Home recording flash: Top pros do it too. Also, song- writing advice from a platinum hitmaker.
studio sense
Timecode Sync Step by step through the process of locking up re- corders with the aid of SMPTE and MTC.
Troubleshooting When your equipment starts fighting you, what can you do? Turn to Keyboard for help, of course!
keyboard reports
MOTU 2408 (Mac/PC) Versatile audio I/O with cool Mac software.
Roland VS-1680 A 16-track digital studio with optional effects.
NemeSys GigaSampler (PC) A software sampler with almost infinite RAM.
Kawai MP9000 A digital piano with great sounds and real hammers.
Opcode Vision DSP (Mac) Sequencing and audio complete with realtime plug-ins!
Sounds Greytsounds Afro-Caribbean Yamaha Twisted Reality Synthetic Productions Deep Rave/Hip-Hop
departments
Letters Tips from readers, a Windows booster, advice from a session pro, and more.
411 Practice tips, portable power, keyboards at the circus, Web resources, flashbacks, and more. New products start on page 16!
In Review New CDs from Alanis, Beck, Meat Beat, Carla Bley- and a Warner Bros. cartoon composer.
Behind the Scenes Copy protection for samples: Would it work? Would it help or hurt musicians?
how-to columns
Dance Mix by Doug Beck Shopping tips for dance and remix artists who need to stretch their dollars.
Basics by Jim Aikin Some essential concepts in MIDI signal routing.
Solo Piano by Harold Danko A new columnist dissects one of his own tunes, which happens to have become a standard.
Digital Home Recording by Craig Anderton Are you ready for the digital mixer revolution? And what's word clock, anyway?
Reel World by Jeff Rona For a project that required two solid hours of music, Jeff got into the groove.
PROFILES
Star profile: Rae & Christian We catch up with the busy Mancunian duo riding the wave of popularity since the release of their debut album, Northern Sulphuric Soul.
Boom Boom Satellites Another duo whose first album is meeting great acclaim, we go Japanese with the Boom Boys.
Móa The Icelandic group with a unique blend of ethereal jazz vocals and analogue electro sounds.
MAKING MUSIC
Smack my beats up: drum n' bass We show you how to program your beats for drum n' bass... er, without the bass.
Spotlight on: ReBirth V2.0 New series where we focus on a particular bit of kit, this month we take a closer look at ReBirth V2.0.
Interface You need help? Richard and Jon give it out.
ON TEST
Quasimidi Polymorph The newest release from Quasimidi claims to be four synths in a box. We start counting.
Yamaha FS1R A rack unit that offers new ways of making sound.
Akai S5000
SoundBlaster Live
Kenton Electronics Control Freak
PlayStation Music
DJ starter set-up head-to-head
Kam KFX
Retro: Akai AX80
Soundbytes Loads of mini tests of affordable accessories.
We Got Game Music
New technologies make composing and producing interactive music easier and more creative than ever before. Plus, the latest on DLS and DirectMusic!
Glen Ballard
The producer behind Alanis Morissette's latest smash CD, Supposed Former Infatuation Junkie, talks tracks.
Music Business Insider
This just in: Downloadable CDs may not be ready for prime time. Also, hot topics at a recent entertainment law conference.
Master Class: Bruce Hornsby A rock piano master tells how he went back to the woodshed to build his left-hand chops.
studio sense
Processing Acoustic Guitar There's more to laying down killer tracks than find- ing a great player and setting up the mics.
Check Your Speaker Phase Easy fixes for a subtle problem that can drain life from your mixes.
Microphone Response Patterns Not all mics are alike. To minimize background noise and bleed, start with these ideas.
keyboard reports
Yamaha DSP Factory Computer audio interface with 02R power.
Peavey C8X A master keyboard controller with updated specs.
Waves Renaissance EQ Vintage sounds from a multi-format EQ plug-in.
Ensoniq ASR-X Pro New features for a hot tabletop sequencer/sampler.
Sounds Spectrasonics Distorted Reality 2 KenFen Productions Zip-O-Drumz Numerical Sound Drone Archeology
departments
Letters Mixer snapshots, Mac mavens, a bussing tip, copyright filing, and readers sound off.
In Review New CDs from Zawinul, the Angel, Merl Saunders, and other intriguing artists.
411 Project studio finance, Dubtribe Sound System, an electronic fakebook, BeOS, and more. New products start on page 18!
Behind the Scenes When a small software company goes into the hardware business, it's a whole new ball game.
how-to columns
Digital Home Recording by Craig Anderton Tricks you can play with a hard disk recorder to make your effects sound better.
Solo Piano by Harold Danko A whole century of vibrant keyboard music, and it started with ragtime.
Basics by Jim Aikin The most important topic in MIDI: note-on and note-off messages.
Composing by Richard Leiter A first-call Indian percussionist weaves his magic in a new film score.
Dance Mix by Joey Donatello Practical advice from a hit producer on the go.
B-3 Shootout We put the latest crop of pretenders to the throne to the ultimate test: letting experienced, picky Hammond players lay into them with both hands.
Mr. B-3: Joey DeFrancesco Today's top jazz organist talks about drawbars, bass pedal tricks, and jamming with Miles. He also shares his secrets for chording and a couple of patented Jimmy Smith licks.
Music on the New G3 Apple's core changes in the new G3 "blue-and- whites" mean confusion for musicians. But as our tests reveal, you needn't hit any roadblocks if you proceed with caution.
studio sense
Miking the Leslie Around and around and around it goes, and where it stops nobody knows....
Multi-Band Compression Professional secrets that will help you shape your final mixes for maximum clarity and punch.
Automation You can do much more with mix automation than sim- ply set levels and program a good-sounding fadeout.
keyboard reports
Yamaha SU700 Performance sampler with groove slicing and effects.
Emagic SoundDiver (Mac/PC) Editor/librarian software for serious patch management.
Alesis M1 Monitors Powered, affordable nearfields with a small footprint.
BitHeadz Unity DS-1 (Mac/PC) Computer-based sampler with flexible programming.
T.C. Electronic Finalizer Express Multi-band compressor (and more) for easy mastering.
Sounds ZonSounds Korg Trinity Sounds Big Fish Roots of South America
departments
Letters One reader yanks our chain... er, cable, another wants to convert MIDI note numbers to BPM, and the sample swapping contro- versy continues.
411 Vanessa Daou, BeOS gets real(time), highpass filter tricks, advice for your next world tour, a classic Isaac Hayes album, and much more. New products start on page 18!
Behind the Scenes There are still several competing plug-in formats. Will there ever be a true standard?
how-to columns
Dance Mix by Doug Beck Want your dance mixes to be ready for the club? Don't miss these proven techniques.
Solo Piano by Harold Danko A new approach to the changes of "Giant Steps."
Reel World by Jeff Rona The final installment on composers' agents talks about deal-making and how to break in.
Basics by Jim Aikin Learn how to navigate your way around the menus in your synthesizer's operating system.
Digital Home Recording by Craig Anderton Think a digital mixer is strictly for mixing? Think again.
Tube Mic Madness
Guitarists have known for years about the mystique of tubes. But tube mics are a potent resource for any studio musician. We plugged in half a dozen popular models and let a panel of listeners give their verdicts.
Road Warriors
Talking racks and rigs with the keyboardists for Marilyn Manson, Enrique Iglesias, and Celine Dion - not to mention a guy who goes on the road with nothing but an ancient Korg Poly-800
Master Class: Brad Mehldau The art of improvisation involves far more than just knowing the changes. An emerging star of jazz piano explains how his solos develop, and opens up some unexpected routes into the depths of harmony.
Ten Ways to Make Money Now that you've acquired some good gear for your project studio, maybe you'd like it to pay for itself. You don't need a platinum album to have cash flow!
studio sense
Acoustic Diffusors How to tame the wild waves in your control and tracking rooms.
Delay Delay Delay Get doubling, ping-pong panning, and more from a widely used effect.
keyboard reports
Focusrite ToneFactory Multi-purpose recording mic preamp and processor.
Quasimidi Sirius Dance workstation with drums, sequencer, and vocoder.
Sound Quest Midi Quest 7.0 (PC) Editor/librarian software supports tons of instruments.
Alesis DM Pro Percussion module with pad trigger inputs.
FutureRetro 777 True analog mono synth with a funky, hands-on vibe.
TASCAM DA-45HR The world's first 24-bit DAT recorder/player.
Sounds Zero-G N.Y. Cutz Wizoo Powered Wave Masterbits Project X
departments
Letters Equipment failure, SoundFonts, how to play a really long note, and other hot topics.
411 Boom Boom Satellites, inexpensive music soft- ware, burning questions on Acid, remembering a classic by Blood, Sweat & Tears, and more. New products start on page 18!
In Review
The latest CDs from Cibo Matto, Tribal Tech, Floraline, Steve Coleman, and Clare Fischer.
Other Windows
Every musician has a story to tell....
how-to columns
Dance Mix by Greg Rule Our resident dance guru talks about putting together his synth-heavy remix of a hot KMFDM track.
Solo Piano by Harold Danko Expand your harmonic palette with voicings of stacked fourths and fifths.
Digital Home Recording by Craig Anderton Ever wanted to make your own rhythm loops? Follow these step-by-step instructions!
Basics by Jim Aikin Just like a computer, your synthesizer has RAM. So what happens when you press the "save" button?
features
Loop Music 101 If you're just getting started using sampled beats, this crash course will take you to a whole new level. Learn better ways to trim, line up, and process your audio.
Master Class: Piano of Brazil From Villa-Lobos to Nascimento, Gismonti, and Jobim, Brazilian rhythms have a spice all their own. Try these two-handed comping patterns and see for yourself.
Painless Studio Acoustics, Part 2 Whether you're trying to minimize freeway rumble or keep the neighbors from calling the cops, these practical tips will help you turn your home studio into a more viable soundspace.
Spotlight: Cibo Matto
Spotlight: Benmont Tench
studio sense
Limiters vs. Compressors Which tool to use? That depends on what musical problem you're trying to solve.
Tracking vs. Mixdown The technology invites us to do everything at once. But putting on a different hat can give you fresh perspective.
keyboard reports
Waves ProFX Bundle Flange, pitch, multi-tap delay, and mod plug-ins (Mac).
Arboretum Systems Harmony Full-featured multi-voice formant pitch-shifting (Mac).
Power Technology DSP-FX An affordable suite of useful DirectX plug-ins (Win).
Cycling '74 Pluggo Loads of VST plug-ins, plus it's expandable (Mac).
Cakewalk Audio FX3 Easy-to-use acoustic space building for DirectX (Win).
Short Takes Radial Engineering direct boxes, FMR RNC, Yamaha CS2x synth
Sounds Zero-G Planet of the Breaks, Big Fish Audio Alien Guitars, Wizoo Magnetica
departments
Letters Readers thank us for features on Hammonds, BeOS, and remixing. Also, repair shop woes and MP3 songwriting.
411 Psychological survival, piano gigs in Europe, a classic Joe Sample session, David Rosenthal with Billy Joel, and how to play better overnight. New products start on page 18!
In Review The latest CDs from Add N To X, Chick Corea, Randy Newman, and the ever-popular Various Artists.
Behind The Scenes Meet the programer behind a popular shareware audio utility. (He isn't even a musician!)
how-to columns
Dance Mix by Greg Rule Hot grooves are only half the battle. For fills and transitions that sizzle, start here.
Digital Home Recording by Craig Anderton Automated mixing used to be exclusive to high-
end studios. Not any more.
Reel World by Jeff Rona Part 2 of Jeff's in-depth conversation with Robert Kraft of 20th Century Fox.
Basics by Jim Aikin Everything you need to know about filter resonance and filter modulation.
Solo Piano by Harold Danko Try this fresh treatment of "All the Things You Are."
Ben Folds Five
Rock piano: It isn't about Elton John any more. Folds pounds, he sweats, he runs his Baldwin through a Marshall stack. But who exactly is Reinhold Messner?
The Temple of Hip-Hop
It's more than music, it's a lifestyle. But since Keyboard isn't a lifestyle mag, we'll let you in on the technical secrets of lo-fi, filtering, beats, and vocal production.
Master Class: Cool Comping Every scale has its own hidden vocabulary of three- and four-note diatonic chords. Andy LaVerne reveals a whole new way to look at jazz accompaniment.
Spotlight: Michael Whalen Genre-hopping is all in a day's work for this Emmy winning jazz/classical/new age composer.
studio sense
Editing Vocal Tracks
There's more to producing a great vocal performance than setting up a mic and fixing the intonation.
Dealing with Clients
Common-sense business tips for the project studio owner- plus, how to handle the client from hell.
keyboard reports
Korg Triton ProX The latest 88-key sampling/sequencing workstation.
Electrix Effects The FilterFactory and WarpFactory have real knobs.
Soundscape Mixtreme Multichannel audio I/O for Windows computers.
Line 6 Pod Guitar amp models and FX: a keyboard's-eye view.
Short Takes Fender SFX Keyboard 200 amp, Prosoniq Orange Vocoder plug-in
Sounds Big Fish Audio Groove Dimensions, Zero-G Total House
Letters Readers worry about copy protection and slag us for bad advice, bad ads, and bad demos.
411 David Sancious tours with Seal, Robert Rich shows off his space-plus insuring your studio, vocal synthesis, and much more. New products start on page 18!
In Review Monk with a little Sting, Dead with the Dregs, a sleeper from Texas, and other vital new CDs.
Behind The Scenes Ever wonder how they design hundreds of factory presets for a new synth?
how-to columns
Dance Mix by Doug Beck How to produce a vocal for your next remix with gating, compression, and other hot techniques.
Reel World by Jeff Rona Final words from Robert Kraft of 20th Century Fox on pop music, budgets, and breaking in.
Composing by Richard Leiter Bassist Will Lee shares some tips on how to move your music (and your listeners).
Basics by Jim Aikin Want to create your own synth sounds? You'll need to know about envelope generators.
Digital Home Recording by Craig Anderton Still think analog recording sounds superior to digital? Maybe it's time for another look.
Five Top Sequencers
There probably isn't a more complex type of software than computer-based MIDI/audio recorders. All of the leading programs are feature-packed - but which of them is best at different common tasks? Find out who scored top marks in our no-holds-barred shootout. Features chart begins on page 60.
Master Class: Rock Piano The basics of standard piano accompaniment styles for today's players-dozens of rhythms and chord voicings you can play in any tune.
E-mu E4 Ultra Hot Tips
Whether you're looping single-cycle waveforms from a vintage synth sample or adjusting the tempo in a two bar beat loop, these hands-on pointers will help you get professional results.
Spotlight: David Frank
The synth mastermind behind "Genie in a Bottle."
studio sense
Managing Digital Levels A lot can go wrong even when the signal path is all- digital. Spot clipping and stop it in its tracks.
Pop Filters This inexpensive accessory (you can even build your own) will work wonders with a vocal track.
keyboard reports
Mixman Studio Pro Editing and effects enhance this loop software (Win).
Kurzweil ExpressionMate Add a ribbon controller and arpeggiator to any synth.
GRM Tools VST Four powerful plug-ins ported to VST (Win/Mac).
Apogee Rosetta AD 24-bit A/D converter with optional 96kHz sampling.
Alesis ADAT/Edit ADAT/computer audio transfers made easy (Win/Mac).
Short Takes PreSonus MP20 mic pre, Elektron SidStation synth.
Sounds Sampleheads Pocket Syndrome, East West Ill Jointz, Spectrasonics Bizarre Guitar.
Letters Technique vs. technology, more advice for work- ing keyboardists, and a Con that isn't.
In Review Snuggle up to Snog, open a box of Can, and fight the Daleks with Yellow Note.
411 Tax tips, synth programming, backstage with Tim McGraw, boogie-woogie bass, and more. New products start on page 18!
Behind The Scenes Vintage synths have become collectibles, and that means there's some mania in the marketplace.
how-to columns
Digital Home Recording by Craig Anderton Learn step-by-step how to mash your pristine digital audio into a distorted mess.
Reel World by Jeff Rona A candid conversation with Basil Poledouris, composer for films like Starship Troopers and Hunt for Red October.
Dance Mix by Doug Beck DJ Boris talks about building the rollercoaster energy of club tracks.
Composing by Richard Leiter Listening to the client is just as important as lis- tening to your mix. But how can you tell when you're getting useful feedback?
Basics by Jim Aikin If you're using digital recording gear, your music is passing through A-to-D converters.
making music
FM Guide To... digital music In the third and last of our digital music guides, we explore the wonderful world of Internet music, MP3 and audio streaming.
20 Logic tips
Plenty of shortcuts and technical hints to using one of the world's most popular sequencer programs.
Interface Jon and Richard dish out the advice in their technical corner.
Perfect set-up We recommend the perfect set-up to a reader into ambience.
FM Guide To... mastering Yes... still more advice, this time on the whys and wherefores of perfect mastering.
profiles
Skylab The unpredictable, undefinable Skylab talk about their working practices, and almost get arrested.
Mr Oizo Remember good ol' Flat Eric? Remember the groovy Flat Beat track? Well, Mr Oizo
on test
Vegas Pro A program that brings video, MP3 and audio editing together, affordably, in your home PC set-up. This is music-making of the future. (demo on FM CD-ROM)
Electrix Warp Factory A rackmount vocoder effects box, with plenty of scope for wacky voices and lots of laughs. (on FM CD & CD-ROM)
Yamaha RY9 A drum machine that thinks its a QY sequencer, aimed at the switched-on guitarist. (on FM CD)
GRM Tools A package of four plug-ins that could radically change your music-making. B Logic V4.0 for PC
Logic Audio gets a millennial brush up.
WaveSurgeon A WAV and audio chopper that you can use now! thanks to our CD-ROM demo and walkthrough on p109.
Retro: Korg miniKorg 700s A little analogue keyboard that packs a big punch.
25 Giants of Keyboard Music These outstanding keyboard artists have done their thing in unique and special ways.
The Long & Winding Road High and low points in the history of Keyboard.
25 Technology Milestones Breakthroughs in music hardware and software.
25 Years of Weird Gear The stalactite organ, a tuck 'n' roll B-3, the most unusual DX7 ever made, and more.
The Keyboard Diaries Memorable moments on the firing line.
25 Top Music Websites Get your music online, find gear, and discover ways to make a career in music via these Internet resources.
25 Players We'll Miss Masters of our trade who joined that Big Jam Session in the Sky during the past 25 years.
25 Years of Classic Quotes Unforgettable statements made during the past quarter century.
Master Class: 25 Tips Wide-ranging secrets-old and new divulged by the stars.
25 Ways to Stretch Your Chops Feeling restricted, stalled, or creatively constipated? These tips will get you up and running again.
keyboard reports
Yamaha S80 Expandable workstation keyboard.
Clavia Nord Micro Modular Virtual analog mini-synth and editor software.
Yamaha SW1000XG PCI audio/MIDI card with software.
Roland SRV-3030 Rackmount digital reverb with optional S/PDIF I/O.
Short Takes Akai Headrush El, Antares ATR-1, Adaptec Easy CD Creator 4 Deluxe, TC Electronic M3000.
Sounds Sampleheads New York City Percussionworks, Korg EXB-PCM sound expansion boards for Triton.
Letters Sequencer wars, virtual vs. true analog, missing bits, and backlash against an ad.
In Review Feel the Mahavishnu Orchestra's electricity, zone out to Rob Zombie, get ecstatic with XTC, and whirl through a great new B-3 compilation.
411 Art Of Noise reunites, unsigned artist spotlight, Mose Allison's Lessons in Living, and more. New Gear begins on page 26!
Workspace Rob Hoffman shows off his bedroom studio.
columns
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail Plug into Polyfusion, modular synth maker.
Dance Mix by Doug Beck Putting drama into your dance record.
Composing by Richard Leiter Soothe or jangle your listeners' nerves.
Digital Home Recording by Craig Anderton Start the new millenium right by doing what you meant to do before but never got around to.
Basics by Jim Aikin Clues to understanding digital audio buzzwords.
Reel World by Jeff Rona Dealing with the music technologies to come.
special
History of electronic music Our epic look at synth history continues with a charting of all the people and instruments of the 60s and 70s. With Numan's synth classic Cars on the CD and words from the man himself.
making music
30 more live tips More advice on gigging with electronics.
Reader demo update We catch up with past FM demoists who've hit the big time. This month: Lange.
Interface More top advice to quell those technical worries and woes.
profiles
Jean Michel Jarre The legend who, with Oxygene, brought electronic music to the masses, talks to FM about his new album, his past success and how he's found... Pro Tools?!
Fort Lauderdale You might not have heard of them but, believe us, this subtle duo are gonna be something big.
High Llamas 60s guitar sounds with retro synth gear combine to create a classy sound.
Roger J Manning Our interview with Beck's keyboardist fell through, but watch out for it next month.
on test
Yamaha CS6x The sexy silver control synth brings a bunch of new dance sounds and plenty of sampling ability.
Roland SRV-3030 You want a dedicated digital reverb with class? You got it. (on CD).
Elektron SidStation A weird analogue synth built from the innards of a Commodore 64. (on CD)
Mackie 1402 VLZ Pro The latest in Mackie's always reliable 1402 range of mixers comes under scrutiny.
Blueroom Minipods The sexiest speakers we have ever seen. And before you laugh, take a look!
Steinberg LM4 A virtual drum machine to join the VST Instruments rank and file.
ACID Pro V2.0 It's back, and it's even better.
Cakewalk Pro Audio V9 With a Pro Audio moniker attached, is this the ultimate audio/sequencer?
MadTracker V2.0.5 FM reader Martin Hunter gets to review this PC sample tracker. (on CD-ROM)
Soundbytes Bits and pieces reviewed and rated.
Retro: Korg Sigma A classic among preset synths.
features
SUPER CHOPS! Play Better Now! Satisfied with your keyboard chops? If not, start here.
Mastery Class Learn to let your inner music flow effortlessly.
Chart Your Own Course Set personal goals and improve your keyboard skills.
Chord Basics Workshop II Progressing to extended and altered voicings.
The Piano Is Not a Gymnasium Develop your technique without busting your chops.
Resources for Ripping Videos, CD-ROMs, and books to build technique.
Spotlight: Supreme Beings of Leisure Leisure? SBL had to sweat to get a record deal.
studio sense
Phase Cancellation What happens when you experience phasing problems?
Preventing Phase Problems Minimize phase cancellation with proper mic placement.
keyboard reports
E-mu E5000 Ultra The latest entry in the Ultra family of samplers.
E-mu ESI 2000 Affordable rackmount sampler.
Technosaurus Microcon & Cyclodon Analog synth module and 16-step analog sequencer.
Mutronics Mutator Dual rackmount analog lowpass filter/envelope follower.
Nearfield Marimba Lumina MIDI mallet percussion controller.
SeaSound Solo Audio/MIDI interface for computer-based recording (Mac, Win).
Digidesign Bruno/Reso TDM cross-synthesis and resonance plug-ins.
Short Takes Apple iBook, Electrix Mo-FX, and Audio- Technica AT849.
Sounds Big Fish Big Beat: Megaton Bomb Volume 4, Rarefaction RoVaMaTiC, and Infinite Sound Ambient Atmospheres.
departments
Letters Historical accuracy, MP3s, and MIDI timing.
In Review Switched-On Boxed Set, Kraftwerk, and Blondie.
411 Dr. Dre, Ryuichi Sakamoto, delinquent clients, Nano Moog, Charles Earland, MacWorld, more.
New Gear Digital pianos, Red Sound Darkstar synth, an Antares plug-in, the Electro-Harmonix Small Clone reissue, and other cool new stuff.
Workspace Derek Sherinian's plush Hollywood Hills studio.
columns
Reel World by Jeff Rona How to choose songs to intersperse with the "real" film score.
Digital Home Recording by Craig Anderton Think it's crazy to road-test mixes with the air
conditioner running? Try it yourself.
Dance Mix by Doug Beck Answers to FAQs about dance music.
Composing by Richard Leiter Somewhere over the rainbow, you'll surely find work as a composer.
Basics by Jim Aikin A first look at the art of looping instrument samples.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail The Ondes Martenot, an early electronic instru- ment from France.
special
History of electronic music The final instalment of our epic round-up of hi-tech music, charting the highs and lows, the inventions and innovations, and the people, the music and the instru- ments of the 80s and 90s. (on CD)
making music
FM Guide To MIDI (part one) Back to basics with one of music's eternal (well, since 1983 anyway) enigmas.
Interface FM's very own men in black - Richard and Jon-put right your technical wrongs.
profiles
Laika
Named after the first dog in space, this band are sending fans into orbit with their third album Good Looking Blues, so we find out how, and why, it was done.
DJ Spooky & Scanner
These two musicians at the cutting edge of music have brought together their musical minds from either side of the Atlantic to create a cool collaboration album. We meet them both.
Dan Curtin
Although not from Detroit, Dan's been influenced by the Motor City's house pioneers and is now on the road to
forging his own sound.
on test
RSS DarkStar Never before has a synth this powerful been so ridiculously easy to use... or this stupidly affordable.
Boss VF-1 Don't be fooled by the guitar-effects looks. This could work wonders on your synth sounds.
Yamaha SU700 vs Roland SP-808 We arrange a meeting of the minds in our head-to-head tests of these two loop samplers. Find out who wins in the groove loop stakes.
Roland VM-3100 A professional-looking and professional- sounding digital mixer that's not as
complex as it first seems.
Yamaha PLG-150AN A plug-in card that brings a wealth of new sounds to your desktop.
Steinberg Cubasis VST Cubasis is 'basic' no more, thanks to this new VST update.
MusicMatch Jukebox Deluxe Download and file all your MP3 tracks in this virtual jukebox.
Granulab and AXS Two programs come under scrutiny in another Reader Review.
Retro: Roland SH-2 The 80s are alive and kicking once again in this retro test of an old fave.
The Fast Lane: April Showers-It's Raining Zen by Stephen St.Croix
Insider Audio: Keeping Up With Technology-A Panel Discussion, Part 1 by Paul D. Lehrman
Mix Masters: Dave Way-Mixer on a Hot Streak by Maureen Droney
Top-of-the-Line Mic Preamps by Roger Maycock
The Project Studio: Jeff Bridges Primes the Pump by Maureen Droney
Larrabee Studios: 30 Years of Growth (And Hits!) by Maureen Droney
Product Highlights From AES Europe by George Petersen
The Bitstream: Scrambling for a DTV Standard by Oliver Masciarotte
The Tech's Files: Bugs in the (Tape) Machine- Simple Mods to Keep Your Timecode DAT Happy by Eddie Ciletti
Recording Notes
Nashville Songwriter/Producer Jon Vezner by Gregory A. DeTogne
Ginger Baker's Parting Shots by Robin Tolleson
Buddy Miller: Homemade by Barbara Schultz
Classic Tracks: Warren Zevon's "Werewolves of London" by Blair Jackson
Cool Spins: The Mix Staff Members Pick Their Favorite CDs
SOUND FOR PICTURE SUPPLEMENT
On the Cover: Fox Post Production Complex by Larry Blake
Surround for Television: Ready for Prime Time? by Philip De Lancie
Finding Your Voice: ADR-Necessary Evil or Saving Grace? by Michael Axinn, Recording the Voice-Over by Peter Bergren
Post Script Sound for Film: The Bake Off by Larry Blake. Facility Spotlight: New Standard Post
by Maureen Droney. Steve Tyrell Swings Full Circle by Gary Eskow
Technology Spotlight: Dolby E by Philip De Lancie
Audio Products for Film/Video
Hardware and Software for Audio Production
Preview/Hot Off the Shelf
Technology Spotlight: Fairlight Prodigy-Integrated Digital Audio Production System by George Petersen
Technology Spotlight: Rising Sun Holophone 3-D Microphone System by George Petersen
Field Test: Amek 9098i Large-Format Music Recording Console by Larry the O
Field Test: Beyerdynamic MCD 100 Digital Microphone by Ty Ford
Field Test: Bomb Factory Plug-Ins by Barry Rudolph
Field Test: Eventide Orville Multichannel Effects System by Alex Artaud
Field Test: Curtis Technology AL-2 Stereo Tube Microphone System by Steve Cunningham
Field Test: Aphex Model 1100 Thermionics Tube Mic Preamp With 24-Bit A/D Converter by George Petersen
Power Tools: Alesis M20-Making MDM Magic by George Petersen
LIVE SOUND
Using Lavalier Microphones by Jonathan Deans
Tour Profile: TLC and Christina Aguilera by Sarah Jones
New Sound Reinforcement Products
L.A. NAMM 2000
For the first time in too long, synths were a major buzz at the January National Association of Music Merchants shindig. Software plug-ins, stand-alone digital recorders, and effects processors were prevalent as well. Turn to page 25 for Keyboard's Top 25 products of the show, plus details on the great stuff we're looking forward to getting our sweaty little hands on.
Smash Mouth
Lo-fi keyboardist/freak Mike Klooster checked into Smash Mouth's lineup just before their '97 single "Walkin' on the Sun" turned into a mega-hit, and he's never looked back. Mike takes Keyboard backstage and into the stu- dio with Smash Mouth, and gives us the goods on his role in one of today's biggest pop rock chart toppers.
Master Class: Arturo O'Farrill A mainstay of the New York jazz and Afro-Cuban scenes reveals the connection between jazz and Latin piano.
studio sense
Mixing and Remastering with EQ Knowing which frequencies to tweak and how can make all the difference in a finished mix.
Make It Real Succinct tips on making your sequenced tracks breathe.
keyboard reports
Yamaha CS6x Keyboard synth with arpeggiator, sequence playback, sampling, and bundled software.
Korg D16 16-track hard disk recorder with built-in digital mixing and effects.
Kurzweil KDFX Four-bus multi-effects board for the K2500 series.
Lexicon MPX 500 Stereo/dual-channel effects processor with 24-bit digital audio I/O.
Short Takes MOTU FastLane-USB and Stanton DJF-1.
Sounds Sweetwater Sounds Total Stereo Session Drums and Sampleheads Mark Walker Latin Drums.
departments
Letters NIN nailed, Jimi misspelled, the real top 25 keyboardists of all time, and software latency.
In Review MDFMK, Big Muff, Dixie Dregs, new jazz piano, and a Weather Report tribute.
411 Better Living Through Circuitry, backstage with the Counting Crows, and remixing with a sampler.
Workspace Plug in with Andrew Scheps, a first-call producer who's worked with Michael Jackson and Iggy Pop.
columns
Dance Mix by Rob Hoffman Organize your studio for maximum throughput.
Solo Piano by Harold Danko Getting a handle on triplets and other rhythmic subdivisions for comping and soloing.
Digital Home Recording by Craig Anderton Some practical tips on generating sound effects with software synths.
Basics by Jim Aikin An introduction to the sequencer, a tool for constructing music from audio and MIDI tracks.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail A look at one hep delay box, the tube- and tape-based Echoplex.
Reel world by Jeff Rona More on the differences between movie scores and soundtracks.
making music
FM Guide To MIDI (part two) Getting more in-depth with the mysterious might of MIDI.
Perfect set-up New gear suggestions to aid an FM reader in his quest for studio perfection.
Interface FM's very own men in black - Richard and Jon-put right your technical wrongs.
profiles
Lange This trance remixer and musician started his long road to success as an FM
demoist, so we find out how far he's come and what he's got planned.
Pilote This Brighton-based musician is creating waves, despite his denials of knowing anything about his own gear.
Mira Calix Doing her bit for hi-tech girl power with haunting and effective electro.
on test
Korg MS2000 A combination of digital-modelling and analogue architecture that adds up to a wealth of preset and definable sounds, but is it a winner?
Korg MS2000R We also review the rackmount version and discover the advantages (or not) of rack- mounts over keyboard originals.
Yamaha CS6R Another synth that's lost its keys. Find out how the rack version of the CS6x control synth can still wow.
TC Electronic D-Two Time to get grown up with a dedicated delay unit.
E-mu ES12000 Another bit of music kit with the 2000 name, with plenty of sampling power for not much lucre.
Mackie CFX12 These mixers with onboard effects seem to be appearing by the minute.
Steinberg Wavelab V3.0 The new update of this wave editor which can now do much more.
Steinberg Model E Yet another VST Instrument to come under the FM spotlight.
Retro: Oberheim Matrix 6 Go back in time with this review of the most complex synth ever.
Soundbytes Mini reviews of studio accessories.
making music
FM guide to synth programming A step-by-step guide to creating sounds from scratch with your analogue synth. All you need to know, from sound waves to filtering and envelope shapes.
Perfect set-up Studio advice and suggestions for musicians using vocals.
Interface Let our technical experts sooth your furrowed brows with their studio advice.
profiles
Chicane (aka Nick Bracegirdle) hit the big time with his Ibizan anthem Offshore, but his latest track Don't Give Up has brought dance music once again to the top of the charts. We enter his studio and scoop an exclusive look at his video on the CD-ROM.
LHB
This duo may not be that well-known, thanks to some over-subtle spin, but we hope to change that. They talk about their album and how it almost didn't happen.
Recoil
Alan Wilder has now left his Depeche Mode days far behind, as his solo project explores darker paths. He chats about the new album, collaborations and life.
on test
Roland MC-307 Groovebox The newest in the Groovebox range, now boasting DJ-friendly effects and a cheaper price, gets a thorough going over.
Yamaha A4000 A new sampler which neatly takes over where the A3000 V2 left off.
TC Electronic M-One A multi-effects unit from a company with a trusted (and pricy) pedigree.
MiniDisc round-up A group test of six of the latest MiniDisc players and recorders. We find the best.
Turtle Beach Montego II Plus A soundcard with digital ins and outs.
Total eJay A walkthrough of how to use this software plus a chance to upgrade for free!
VideoLogic Sirocco Spirits Self-powered monitors with attitude.
Retro: Yamaha CS01 A synth you hold like a guitar? Hmm.
Soundbytes Mini reviews of studio accessories.
Reviews
Neumann KMS 105 Hand-held Condenser Mic. This hand-held mic isn't just for live use it shines in the studio too. REVIEW BY MONTE MCGUIRE
TASCAM DA-78HR Digital Recorder. Eight tracks, 24 bits, internal mixing, and built-in timecode features fill out this newest modular digital multitrack. REVIEW BY RICK AURICCHIO
Tannoy Proto-J Nearfield Monitors. These speakers offer crisp monitoring at a mini price.
REVIEW BY LORENZ RYCHNER
Moogerfooger MF-103 Twelve-Stage Phaser. A variety of interface options and a creamy sound make this pedal a standout. REVIEW BY CHRIS MEYER
Aphex 1100 Thermionic Mic Preamp/A-D Converter The design is new, the technology is patented, and the results are impressive. REVIEW BY NICK BATZDORF
Cakewalk Pro Audio version 9. The newest upgrade to this Windows audio/MIDI editor offers new MIDI features, guitar-friendly interface options, and speedier performance. REVIEW BY BILL STUNT
Swissonic USB Studio D. Field recording made easy and affordable with a plug-and-play USB audio interface and 16-input mixer all in one. REVIEW BY BILL STUNT
The World of the Multitrack Recorder. From the old analog behemoths to modern computer gizmos, a trip from old memories to new issues - hopefully with a few answers thrown in. BY PAUL J. STAMLER
About Hearing. We never think much about our ears as the final link in the music production chain, but we really should. BY DAVE MOULTON
Caring For and Feeding a Great Tape Deck. Nothing sounds quite like an analog reel-to-reel, and this old standby of many pros can be quite affordable. But are you ready for what it takes to own one? BY JON BARE
Nuts and Bolts. Part 11: The Session. We begin our look at tracking sessions by preparing to capture the best possible music from the performers. BY ALEX CASE
Oops Wrong Button. Studio problem solvers thinking through the little electronics projects that can make your life a lot easier. BY MIKE RIVERS
At Home with the Groovebox Roland MC-505 Grooveboxes were sent to 14 diver- gent artists, who were invited to use them exclusively to produce a song for a CD. Here's how trendsetting bands Cibo Matto and Bis and former Keyboard columnist Dick Hyman tackled the project.
Be an Internet Star... or Not! The trials and tribulations of delivering your music to the masses on the World Wide Web.
Master Class: The Keys to Room 251 Andy LaVerne delves into a basic formula found in jazz: the simple II-V-I progression.
Spotlight: On's Ken Andrews An indie rocker discovers SampleCell, the TB-303, and the Virus.
studio sense
DIY Cables Step-by-step directions for soldering and assembling your own audio cables.
Tips for Recording Synths Direct Nifty tricks for capturing a better synth sound.
keyboard reports
Korg MS2000 Modeled-analog synth.
Access Virus kb Modeled-analog synth.
Bomb Factory plug-ins Classic Compressors, Moogerfooger Lowpass Filter & Ring Modulator, and SansAmp PSA-1 for TDM, RTAS, and AudioSuite.
Korg SP-100 Portable digital piano.
Short Takes Boss VF-1, BitHeadz Black & Whites, AKG C3000B, and Pocket Theremin.
Sounds F7 Sound and Vision Concept: FX2, AMG Phil Gould on Drums, and Big Fish Roots of India.
departments
Letters Readers who've been inspired, loops are for losers, and the dangers of selling samples.
In Review Steely Dan, Horace Silver, Galactic, and more.
411 Danny McGough tours with Waits, blind musi- cians confront technology, and a Gretsch organ.
New Gear Kurzweil Troubador, Masterbits MasterBeat, Wiard Modular synths, and four plug-in synths.
Workspace State-of-the-art and vintage music-making gear fill drummer Peter Erskine's converted garage/studio.
columns
Dance Mix by Doug Beck Tightening the screws on your dance tracks.
Composing by Richard Leiter Optimizing a live drumming session.
Basics by Jim Aikin A close look at the workings of a MIDI sequencer.
Digital Home Recording by Craig Anderton Master the mastering process using plug-in compression and expansion.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail The MS-20 patchable monosynth that put Korg on the map.
Reel World by Jeff Rona Filmscoring using electronica techniques.
Digidesign Digi 001 Desktop audio powerhouse
t.c. Electronic M-One Dual effects processor
Korg D16 Digital recording studio
Soundscape Mixtreme PC-based digital workstation
departments
EDITOR'S LETTER
FEEDBACK
Q&A
TIPS & TRICKS
AMBIENT NOISE The latest from Winter NAMM 2000
HOME RECORDING VISITS:
The Pigeon Club
Dave Pomeroy
columns
HOME STUDIO ARRANGER Close relations part 2 by Jon Chappell
PAST MASTERS Hendrix's Are You Experienced? by Pete Prown
STUDIO BASICS Gear you can't live with by Rusty Cutchin
WEB WATCH Audio disappointment by Tom Mulhern
GUERRILLA RECORDING A DIY keyboard stand by Jon Chappell
features
Monitoring 101, Part 2 by Pat Kirtley Creating a quality monitoring environment
Sam Phillips by Rick Petreycik A true musical visionary
Cover Story: Home Studio Construction by Lucien Walsh and Kirsten Eggen How to transform a dank, useless basement into a functional recording studio
Laptop Audio by Emile Menasché Faster machines, better software, and a new breed of interfaces can turn your laptop into a recording powerhouse
On Tour with Mariah Carey Synth wizard Mike McKnight reveals how he deals with the programming and technical needs of the platinum diva's latest onstage show.
Leslie Simulator Roundup Nine Hammond players help us suss out the best of the Leslie simulators.
Master Class: Michael McDonald Learn a few licks, chord voicings, and syncopation tricks from the legendary keyboardist, crooner, and songwriter.
Spotlight: Jars Of Clay's Charlie Lowell Old and new gear glues Jars' sound together.
studio sense
How & When to Dither Squeezing 24-bit recordings onto a 16-bit CD.
The Big Score Our intrepid Digital Home Recording columnist scores his first film.
keyboard reports
Waldorf Q Modeled analog synthesizer.
Yamaha A5000 Rackmount sampler with built-in effects.
TC Works Spark Realtime digital audio editor (Mac).
Kurzweil PC2X Master MIDI controller with built-in sounds.
Boss BR-8 Eight-track digital hard disk recorder.
Short Takes Event Electronics Project Studio monitors, Lucid AD9624 & DA9624, and Digitech Vocalist VR.
Sounds QUp Arts The Holy Grail Grand Piano, Ueberschall Easy Listening, and Discovery Firm The Legend of China.
departments
Letters Rants and raves about Super Chops, Smash Mouth, and reviews.
In Review Slicker, Monty Alexander, Moe Denham, Wayne Horvitz, and Mitchel Forman.
411 Doug DeAngelis, Apollo 440, Winter Music Conference 2000, and a look at how open- source could help musicians.
New Gear GM synth for the Palm, synth and sampler plug-ins, Encore Knobby, Lovetone Ring Stinger, digital audio interfaces, ear-training software, and more.
Workspace Following the earthquake destruction of his previous home studio, Toto's David Paich is back in business in a gorgeous new space.
columns
Solo Piano by Harold Danko Attach names to the chords you play.
Reel World by Jeff Rona Scoring to please the producers, and dealing with scene rearrangements.
Basics by Jim Aikin Notation-based and piano-roll editing.
Dance Mix by Rob Hoffman Initial steps to creating a boffo remix.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail The ARP 2500, an early modular synth that actually stayed in tune.
making music
FM guide to synth programming The second episode of our guide to analogue synthesis investigates the magic of filters and oscillators.
Perfect set-up Suggestions for a reader's studio with connections advice and mixer tips.
Interface More questions and queries answered by our technical experts.
D.I.Y. Air Easy to follow step-by-step guides to recreating some classic Air sounds.
profiles
Air. This French pair have finally released some new material: a soundtrack to the film Virgin Suicides. We catch up with Nicolas Godin to find out what's happen- ing, what's going to happen and what's in their well-equipped studio.
LTJ Bukem After an absence of almost five years, the drum 'n' bass guru is back with a new album and a new enthusiasm.
Longstone This 'boffin' band break the silence to talk to FM about gear and beer.
on test
Korg Electribes The Electribes adds a sampler to Korg's tribal armoury. But exactly how aggressive is this new addition?
Access Virus V3.0 An update of the powerful analogue synth.
Multi-effects group test We round up six of the best multi-effects units for under £250.
Cycling 74's Pluggo More plug-ins than you can shake a Mac at.
Midiman Delta 66 A soundcard with plenty of ins and outs.
Music 2000 An exclusive test and demo of this new PC loop sequencer originally for PlayStation.
Native Instruments' Pro-Five A plug-in Prophet 5 synth emulator.
Buzz A glimpse of this little-known soft synth.
SoundBlaster Live! Platinum An updated version of the Live! card.
Cakewalk Guitar Tracks Learn the guitar with this software tutor.
Techland 3D Future Beat Experience sound in three dimensions.
Retro: PPG Wave
Soundbytes Mini reviews of studio accessories.
Frankfurt Musikmesse 2000 Tons of cool new products to drool over.
Supernatural Keyboards Carlos Santana's burning guitar and driving Latin percussion are key elements, but a B-3 and some world-class keyboardists are at Santana's heart.
ReBirth Hot Tips Realize the full potential of Propellerhead ReBirth.
Steve Walsh New solo frontiers, plus an unexpected Kansas reunion.
Master Class: John Medeski Medeski, Martin & Wood fans may think B-3 is John's main axe, but his roots lie in acoustic jazz piano.
Tommy Lee's New Groove Ex-Mötley Crüe drummer turns gearhead.
studio sense
Monster Synth Bass Tracks Anchor your mix with a huge but focused bass.
Direct Boxes Feed your mixer with the best signal possible.
keyboard reports
Studio Electronics Omega 8 Rackmount polyphonic analog synthesizer.
Roland MC-307 Eight-part pattern sequencer.
Korg OASYS PCI Realtime digital audio editor (Mac).
MetaSynth Studio Bundle Sound design and composition software (Mac).
DRM 1 Syncussion Analog percussion module.
VAZ Modular 2.1 User-configurable software synthesizer (Win).
Short Takes Encore Knobby, Electrix FilterQueen & EQ Killer, Lovetone Ringstinger, and Kaces III Keyboard Porter.
Sounds Big Fish Audio Breakbeat 2, PowerFX Lo Fi and Illbient, Midi Mark MPC Hip Hop to R&B Waves.
departments
Letters Editorial balance, linking and looping, and keyboard customization.
In Review John Cage, P'Taah, Edward Ka-Spel, and Mind- Flux CDs, plus books on practicing and Csound.
411 Rack yer Mac, the keyboard meets modern tech- nology, and the Zen Tricksters play Dead.
Workspace In his Danger Room, remixer/producer Francis Preve works with a modest but potent setup.
columns
Dance Mix by Rob Hoffman Killer remix tips and techniques.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail Raymond Scott's Clavivox, precursor to Moogs.
Basics by Jim Aikin Editing controllers in your sequencer.
Composing by Richard Leiter Guillermo Klein writes jazz for big band.
Reel World by Jeff Rona What goes on in the film dubbing process?
profiles
Future Loop Foundation
Mark Barrott began his career as a Future Music demoist, but is now crafting a new wave of drum'n' bass. He talks shop and also offers you the chance to join him in Berlin
ATB
German trance hero Andre Tanneberger is churning out anthems to order, and his latest effort is a Killer. We meet him and his bodyguards to chat about hit singles!
Sir Drew
A one-man band with a unique cheesy flavour to his electronica. Is it a cat, is it a woman, no it's Sir Drew on the back of his She Woman Cat Type Thing album success.
making music
D.I.Y. ATB Following our ATB interview we show exactly how those classic guitar synth and trance beats were created.
Perfect set-up We suggest the perfect studio for a reader who wants to sound like the Prodigy.
Guide to analogue synthesis More tips on creating analogue sounds and how to wrestle with those filters.
Interface Your technical queries unravelled.
on test
Waldorf Microwave XTK This orange synth is far from clockwork, with its wavetable synthesis technology.
Yamaha PSR9000 An attempt to redefine the home keyboard with a do-it-all workstation.
Next! Superbass 4.4 303 sounds aplenty with this bass synth, but is this one any different from the rest?
Roland SP-808EX The new version is less a GrooveSampler, more a studio-in-a-box.
Keyfax Phat.Boy V2 Stay in control with these innocent knobs.
Prosoniq Time Factory You can manipulate audio files with ease.
VAZ V2.1 A new update of this soft modular synth.
Steinberg ES1 Another VST Instrument makes its debut.
Zero-X BeatCreator Slice up your samples in style.
Arturia Storm A program to threaten ReBirth's throne.
VST Drum Sessions A set of CDs which go one step further.
Retro: Yamaha CS60 An eight-voiced analogue polysynth.
Soundbytes Mini-reviews of studio accessories.
Vocoders Speak Keyboard tests 11 dedicated vocoders and products that do vocoding. And the winners are....
Software Vocoders Applications and plug-ins for vocoding.
Vocoders Past A photo gallery of famous and popular vocoders.
Vocoder Basics The ABCs of what goes on under a vocoder's hood.
Vocoder Spotlight: Chicane Disguising Bryan Adams to top the charts.
Vocoder Spotlight: Eiffel 65 A three-man Italian band vocodes its way to bliss.
Master Class: Clare Fischer Jazz pianist and Prince's Grammy-winning arranger shares his secrets.
Music on the G4 Apple's latest is faster than a speeding bullet - but what about MIDI and audio snafus?
studio sense
Older Desktop Systems Your computer may be a few years old, but there's no reason you can't be productive with it.
Windows GUI Ergonomics Improve your creativity by customizing your graphic user interface.
keyboard reports
E-mu Xtreme Lead-1 Synth module with multiple arpeggiators.
E-mu B-3 Rackmount sample-playback organ module.
TC Electronic M-One & D-Two Rackmount reverb/multi-effects and multitap delay.
Short Takes Korg Electribe S, I Bomb Factory Spin and Chorus/Vibrato, KRK V6 nearfield monitors, Reed Kotler TR-1000 Transcriber.
Sounds East West Quantum Leap Brass, Sounds & Cycles: The Electro Age, Steinberg East West Steve Smith-Rhythmic Journey, Wizoo Powered Nord.
departments
Letters Open-source OMS alternatives, MIDI in Leslie simulators, and groovebox benefits.
In Review Chick Corea, Larry Goldings and Voodoo Dogs, Joey DeFrancesco, Joe Jackson, and Devo.
411 The U.K. trio Olive, programming realistic samples, and Winwood's Arc of a Diver.
New Gear Roland ED UA-30, BitHeadz Retro AS-1 2.0, AKG C2000B, Slider Piano Barre, and more.
Workspace Rush guitarist Alex Lifeson scores in his Canadian home studio.
columns
Dance Mix by Doug Beck Persistence can lead to a successful remix.
Solo Piano by Harold Danko Visualizing scales for easier improvisation.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail Octave-Plateau's Voyetra Eight polysynth.
Reel World by Jeff Rona An interview with film composer Carter Burwell.
Basics by Jim Aikin Improve your sequences using quantization.
features
Piano Mania A year-long celebration at the Smithsonian for the piano's 300th anniversary.
Lyle Mays: The Expanding Piano Pat Metheny's frequent collaborator goes solo.
Future Piano Where technology has taken the piano.
Spotlights:
Chantal Kreviazuk
Patrick Leonard
Lee Feldman
Marc Cary
Acoustic Bonanza A bumper crop of piano CDs released in 2000.
Pro Digital Piano Roundup Keyboard rates five affordable digital stage pianos.
Digital Piano Buyer's Guide A list categorized by type and features.
Master Class: David Benoit Reviving Vince Guaraldi's Peanuts piano style.
Acid Hot Tips Sonic Foundry Acid's programmer shares secrets.
studio sense
Animating Tracks Breathe life into mono tracks with this stereo effect.
Video Saves the Radio Star Get a start in computer-based video production.
keyboard reports
NemeSys GigaStudio Software sample player (PC).
Emagic ES1 & EXS24 Synth and sampler plug-ins for Logic (Mac & PC).
Antares Microphone Modeler Mic simulation plug-in (TDM, Mac VST, MAS, RTAS, DirectX).
Short Takes MindPrint DI-Port, Sharp MD-MS722.
Sounds Universal Sound Bank Jazzistics, AMG Black II Black Bangin' Beatboxes, Kid Nepro Classic Synths for Korg Triton, Q Up Arts Symphonic Fields Forever.
departments
Letters Steve Walsh of Kansas and Keyboard rock, sound reviews, and microtonality.
In Review Billy Joel live, David Kristian, Kate Schrock, Kid606, dualing B-3s, and a beautiful piano book.
411 Don Randi and the Wrecking Crew, Bob Dylan and Phil Lesh, and backstage with Donald Fagen.
New Gear Cakewalk Metro SE, Syntrillium Cool Edit 2000, Sound Quest Midi Quest 8.0, BitHeadz Unity Player, and more.
Workspace Mark Isham's Wet Dog Studio revealed.
columns
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail The Con Brio ADS 100, 200, & 200-R workstations.
Dance Mix by Francis Preve Balancing the bass in a remix.
Composing by Richard Leiter Spice up your music with a taste of Brazil.
Basics by Jim Aikin Humanizing a sequence using quantization.
Reel World by Jeff Rona Film composer Carter Burwell on scoring.
features
Nashville NAMM Report Dozens of exciting new products were introduced at this summer's convention.
Retro Roundup Keyboard tests nine of the baddest plug-in synthe- sizers for Mac and PC: Access Virus TDM, BitHeadz Retro AS-1 VST, LinPlug GakStoar Delta 2.1, 1 Native Instruments Dynamo, Native Instruments Pro-Five, Steinberg LM-4, Steinberg Model-E, Steinberg/Waldorf PPG Wave 2.V, and TC|Works Spark Modular.
Software Synth Recap An overview of 21 programs previously reviewed.
Getting Connected The ABCs of plug-in formats.
'N Sync Live On tour with Kevin Antunes and Bob "Bongo" Longo.
Master Class: Lavitz Habits Find out how T Lavitz covers all those Dregs grooves with just the right sound.
Jordan Rudess: New Dreams Dream Theater's synthesist raises the prog rock bar.
studio sense
First-Call Session Players Are you ready to to work as a studio musician?
Becoming a Total Vidiot Shooting video and distributing your wares.
keyboard reports
Kurzweil K2600XS Synthesizer workstation with optional sampling.
Yamaha SU200 Sampler with effects and realtime remixing.
Line 6 Pod Pro Rackmount guitar amp modeling multi-effects processor.
Analogue Solutions Minimodular Compact patchable analog synthesizer system.
Short Takes HHB Radius 40 tube voice processor, Vox Union Jack wah-wah pedal.
Sounds Zero G Total Funk, Big Fish Audio L.A. Riot 4, AMG Sample and Hold, Pangaea Ron Carter Bass Phrazes, Discovery Firm Greek Beats.
departments
Letters Macintosh upgrades, Winwood's synths, com- puter timing latency, modulation, and proof- reading standards.
In Review A sci-fi smorgasboard: NASA blasts off, but Dr. Dan is already on the moon and Roger Manning is hanging with Logan. Plus Spring Heel Jack, Orso, Tin Hat Trio, Sammy Peralta, the Kurstins, and Bill Laswell.
411 Plastic Machine, going Martha Stewart on your guest room/home studio, the proper use of synth envelopes, young Josh Moore, and more.
Workspace Enter Rebar Sound, David Della Santa's San Francisco loft studio.
columns
Dance Mix by Doug Beck Dealing with subpar source material and bad lines of communication.
Reel World by Jeff Rona Compensate for the loss of a sequencer by re- inventing your studio.
Solo Piano by Harold Danko Arpeggios and a 7th chord sequence to practice.
Basics by Jim Aikin Making music with sampling CDs.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail Oberheim's Xpander and Matrix-12 polyphonic synths.
features
Jimmy Jam What's new at Flyte Tyme Studios, where Janet Jackson, Mariah Carey, Boyz II Men, and many others have cut multi-platinum records.
Hot Tips: BitHeadz Unity DS-1 Squeeze extra power and performance out of this popular virtual sampler.
Master Class: David Bryan Bon Jovi's key man shares his keyboard licks and survival tips.
Spotlight: Steve Hornbeak How he got the coveted Faith Hill gig.
Spotlight: Korey Cooper Skillet's keyboardist heats it up live.
studio sense
Session Smarts, Part 2 When to contribute ideas and when to shut up and play.
The Big Score: The Sequel Craig Anderton has a new big screen adventure.
keyboard reports
Roland VP-9000 Sampler with realtime independent pitch and tempo control.
Arturia Storm Virtual studio with sample player, drum machines, and effects (PC).
Big Briar Moogerfooger CP-251 Analog control processor with multiple CV inputs and outputs.
Finale 2001 Music notation software (PC, Mac).
Audio Ease Rocket Science Bundle Formant vowel filter, sound placement/animation, and envelope filter plug-ins (Mac).
Aardvark Direct Pro 24/96 Audio/MIDI interface with mic preamps and effects.
Short Takes Yamaha DJX-II, Line 6 MM4, Cool Stuff Labs Generator X, Newer Technology Maxpower G4 ZIF, Midiman CO3, I Motion Sound KT-80.
Sounds AMG The Progression, BitHeadz Tubes, Tines, & Transistors, Big Fish Audio Roots of the Pacific.
departments
Letters Legitimate loop usage, remixing for profit, David Rosenthal rocks, and the backlash from a tasteless ad.
In Review Gloria Cheng, Electronic, 45 Dip, Dave Brubeck, Another Fine Day, Thelonious Monk, and more.
411 Backstage with Weird Al, the Palm Theremin, Laurie Anderson's anthology, and dueling B-3 masters, plus news and tips.
New Gear Kurzweil PC2R, Zarg Music Ambient, JLCooper MCS-Orbiter, Korg PA-80, Synhouse Midijack, BIAS Peak 2.5 VST, and more.
Workspace Steve Lutes scores big with TV commercials in Royal Oak, Michigan.
columns
Composing by Richard Leiter Avoiding clichés and surprising your listeners.
Dance Mix by Rob Hoffman Self-promotion ideas.
Basics by Jim Aikin Getting groove loops in the pocket.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail Electro-Harmonix Mini-Synthesizer.
Reel World by Jeff Rona Confrontations can be good.
KEYBOARDS & SYNTHS
GROOVE & RHYTHM
SIGNAL PROCESSORS
MIXERS
COMPUTER SOFT/HARDWARE
HARDWARE RECORDERS
SOUNDWARE
MONITORS & AMPS
MIDI HARDWARE
MICS & MIC PREAMPS
STUDIO ESSENTIALS
features
ROAD RAGE! Special section for live performers
High on the Live Wire Gigging keyboardists share advice and horror stories.
Keyboard Combo Amps A buyer's guide with evaluations of 20 amps.
Computer-Based Live Rigs How to tour with a computer and survive.
Master Class: Andy LaVerne De/re-constructing Monk's "Round Midnight," part 2.
Korg Triton Hot Tips Exploit this power synth's sampling, time-slicing, pattern-making, and other features.
studio sense
Using Continuous Controllers Spice up your MIDI tracks.
Ordering Effects What goes first reverb or compression?
keyboard reports
Novation Supernova II Multifaceted modeling keyboard synth.
Akai DPS16 Portable digital multitrack.
Yamaha AW4416 Portable digital multitrack.
Short Takes Big Briar Moogerfooger MF-104 analog delay, Aguilar DB 900 direct box.
Sounds Sonic Foundry Euro Techno Ground Loops, Big Fish Audio Helter Skelter.
departments
Letters Defending factory synth programmers, Napster bashing, and notation.
In Review Bill Evans, Wendy Carlos, Fatboy Slim, Steve Walsh, Gary Wright, and more.
411 Music business books, NAMM downers, Dixie Chicks, Juno Reactor, and David Bowie.
New Gear Sound Chaser NCStudio, More Electronic Sounds i-synth, M Audio Omni i/O, Antares ATR-la, Fostex D2424, Yamaha UW500, and more.
Workspace Brazilian Eloy Fritsch's four-sided vintage synth rig.
columns
Keyboard Basics by Tom Brislin Warmup routines. NEW!
Dance Mix by Francis Preve Creative filtering tips for remixers.
Composing by Richard Leiter Writing for teen markets.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail The Technos Acxel Resynthesizer.
Technology 101 by Jim Aikin Sampling apps for loop music.
Reel World by Jeff Rona Improve your scoring chops by critiquing others.
features
Mirwais on Music In the studio with Madonna's latest production partner.
mLAN's Promise MIDI and audio down one cable? It may be closer than you think.
Spotlight: BS 2000 Beastie Boy Ad Rock and Awol team to cut Simply Mortified.
Master Class: Richard Tee Still a major influence seven years after his death.
Spotlight: The Kirstins A world-class keyboardist and Thereminist.
Hot Tips: Waves Plug-Ins Enhance, compress, stereoize, finalize, and perform other high-wire mixing and mastering feats.
studio sense
MIDI Remote Control Work your digital audio system from a distance.
Demo Session How to produce a better demo.
Beyond Virtual Tracks Maximize MIDI and digital audio tracks.
keyboard reports
Korg CX-3 Tonewheel-modeling organ.
Roland EF-303 Groove-oriented effects box.
TC Works Mercury-1 Monosynth plug-in (VST).
Analogue Systems Sorceror Analog modular synth.
Roland HPD-15 HandSonic Hand percussion pads with built-in sounds.
TC Electronic Triple-C Multiband compressor/limiter.
Casio MZ-2000 Portable auto-accompaniment keyboard.
Short Takes Behringer Shark DSP110, East West Re Loop 2, ART HPFX.
Sounds AMG Complete Celt, Überschall Drumskills, BitHeadz Tempo Tantrum.
departments
Letters Orchestration raves, JP-8000 patch resources, Nyle Steiner, deconstructing mixes, and more.
In Review Klaus Schulze, Zigaboo, Denny Zeitlin, Venice Underground, Larry Goldings & Bob Ward, and others.
411 Newly available Doors audio, Tower Of Power's Roger Smith, a Pro-One cake, and more.
New Gear Future Retro Mobius, Spectrasonics Vocal Planet, MAM ADX 1, Guyatone Funky Box, Audio Ease Peter Pan, LinPlug RM 2, and more.
Workspace The home studio of composer/producer/Keyboard technical editor John Krogh.
columns
Dance Mix by Francis Preve Tips for mixing your remixes.
Keyboard Basics by Tom Brislin Making scales the cornerstone of your practice routine.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail Realistic Concertmate MG-1 the Radio Shack Moog.
Solo Piano by Harold Danko How to tackle a melodic minor.
Technology 101 by Jim Aikin Import, edit, and loop audio in your computer.
Reel World by Jeff Rona Benefit by sharing your talents with others.
features
NAMM Report Prepare to break out in a cold sweat as you scan these 26 spectacular pages, wherein Keyboard's edi- tors snoop out the hottest new products, unveil music industry trends, spotlight some weird gear, and reveal a few of the miseries suffered during last January's four-day International Music Products Association affair in Anaheim, California.
Karma Comes Around The birth and development of Korg's new Karma synthesizer.
Spotlight: Russ Landau A behind-the-scenes look into the production of the Survivor soundtrack.
studio sense
Graphic vs. Parametric EQ Their differences and uses explained.
The Wide World of Panning A quick course in mixdown techniques.
keyboard reports
Propellerhead Reason Multi-module synth/sequencer/effects software (Mac, PC)
Roland XV-5080 Multitimbral synth module with sample RAM.
Emagic WaveBurner Pro CD-burning software (Mac).
Synhouse Midijack MIDI-in retrofit for analog monosynths.
Short Takes Alesis AirFX, Audio-Technica AT4047/SV, Gmedia M-Tron.
Sounds Ilio Entertainments Ethno Techno, Sonic Reality Interactive Drum Kits & Snares, Soundforest Voice Fusions.
departments
Letters An unexpected source of inspiration, Keith Jarrett's piano action, Chuck Berry's songs, and sample-rate conversion.
In Review Mentallo & The Fixer, Jennifer Lopez, Earthsuit, Tina Lear, Paul Bley, and others.
411 Soulstice, MacWorld 2001, a beer-bottle organ, Jens Johansson, using ribbon controllers, and a tribute to "Brother" Jack McDuff.
Workspace Mickey Tachibana's Drum Machine Museum in San Francisco.
columns
Dance Mix by Doug Beck Advanced editing tips for looping audio.
Keyboard Basics by Tom Brislin Chord inversions and progressions.
Solo Piano by Harold Danko Improve your chops with pentachords.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail Casio VL-Tone VL-1, the musical calculator.
Technology 101 by Jim Aikin Software-based automated mixing.
Reel World by Jeff Rona Creatively combining sound design and composition it's not just looping!
features
Upgrade Your Gear Are you getting maximum mileage from your equipment?
Upgrade Your PC Motherboards, memory, Windows, and more.
Upgrade Your Mac Hot-rod your Apple without getting kicked out of Eden.
Upgrade Your Synth/Sampler Hardware and software implants, from A to Y.
Upgrade Your Studio Budget your funds on the right improvements.
Master Class: Greg Kurstin A talented young gun who's fluent in multiple styles.
Spotlight: Neal Evans Going groovacious with Soulive's organist.
GigaStudio Hot Tips Program sounds, exploit automation, and optimize file management within this powerful PC-based sample player.
studio sense
Sync, Part 2 Word clock do's and don'ts.
Go Virtual Setting up and using VST plug-in instruments.
keyboard reports
Clavia Nord Lead 3 Analog modeling synthesizer.
Creamware Pulsar II Audio interface/DSP engine with virtual synths and FX.
Sherman Filterbank 2 Dual multimode analog filter with MIDI.
E-mu Planet Earth World instrument sample-playback module.
PreSonus Digimax Eight-channel mic pre with digital output.
Short Takes Audio Genetics Alkali, Serato Pitch N Time 2.0.1, Danelectro stompboxes.
Sounds E Lab Nu Groove RnB, Sonic Foundry Opium.
departments
Letters Crediting loop sources, kudos and suggestions, Johnnie Johnson defended, and more.
In Review Tricky, Ruby, Chick Corea, LittleHorse, Silent Poets, Dom F. Scab, and others.
411 Winter Music Conference 2001, Slaw, Yamaha tours with the RS7000 and Motif series, a Hammond organ with glowing keys, and more.
New Gear Encore Slidemate, LinPlug Omega, Metaphoric XG-909, Emagic plug-ins, PowerLogix iForce, Sek'd Prodif 88, and more.
Workspace Orgy leader Jay Gordon and his O-Rig.
columns
Dance Mix by Mike Bradford Starting with a solid foundation.
Keyboard Basics by Tom Brislin The benefits of learning to sight-read.
Solo Piano by Harold Danko Exploring scales in complex meters.
Sound Forum by Peter Gorges Programming synth sirens and pads.
Reel World by Jeff Rona More fun scoring Exit Wounds.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail The innovative Kurzweil 250 digital synthesizer.
5.1 MIXING ON A BUDGET
Mixing in surround doesn't mean you have to take out a sec- ond mortgage. EM goes shopping at retail electronics stores for affordable consumer receivers and subwoofers that are well suited for surround applications. By Mike Sokol
COVER STORY: GOOD REFERENCES
To ensure the best possible recordings, you need highly accu- rate reference monitors-or do you? Some producers swear by speakers with well-known faults, yet others use only the most pristine monitors. We resolve the conflicting viewpoints, discuss the vagaries of studio-monitor design, explain the most common specifications, and walk you through the process of choosing close-field monitors. By Brian Knave
BATTLING MEDUSA
The cabling spaghetti found in most personal studios resembles a present-day Medusa. However, if you follow the advice of experienced studio professionals, you can overcome Medusa without turning to stone. Here's how to avoid common pitfalls when making connections in any studio, no matter what its size. By Karen Stackpole
TAMING THE TRITON
Korg's Triton synthesizers are among the most powerful music workstations ever made. Harness their power with these special programming tips and tricks. By Clark Salisbury
COLUMNS
TECH PAGE: Semiprecious Semiconductors Is a fire opal's glint the future of processing?
DESKTOP MUSICIAN: General MIDI Redux GM 2 brings new tools and sounds to a desktop standard.
SQUARE ONE CLASSICS: The Shocking Truth Learn the basics about current, voltage, impedance, and power.
WORKING MUSICIAN: Publish or Perish? Should you sign a music-publishing deal or go it alone?
FINAL MIX: Stuck in the Middle New post-production tools could give Pro Tools stiff competition.
REVIEWS
AKAI DPS16 portable digital studio
BITHEADZ Phrazer 1.0.1 (Mac) audio loop arranger
PRESONUS VXP voice processor
AARDVARK Direct Pro 24/96 (Win) audio interface
EVENTIDE Orville Harmonizer multi-effects processor
ROYER LABS SF-1 ribbon microphone
U&I SOFTWARE MetaSynth Studio 2.7 (Mac) sound-design software bundle
QUICK PICKS: eLab Abstract Hip-Hop sample CD; Riot Act Slow Death by Vise sample CD; Endlessflow Productions Ugly Remnants (Win) sample CD; University of Illinois Press Theremin: Ether Music and Espionage book
SHORTCUTS TO SUCCESS Speed up your music production and editing activities, in- crease productivity, and lighten your workload by using key- board shortcuts and macros. By Larry the O
COVER STORY: THE INCREDIBLE SHRINKING STUDIO You can indeed take it with you! Portable digital studios pack an amazing amount of recording power into a small box. EM examines the new breed of compact recording powerhouses and compares offerings from Akai, Fostex, Korg, Roland, Tascam, and Yamaha. By Marty Cutler
MASTER CLASS: MASTERING RETRO AND UNITY BitHeadz software users know that Retro AS-1 and Unity DS-1 are potent music applications. We check out the deeper fea- tures of both programs and offer little-known tips and tricks that will help you unleash their potential. By Len Sasso
SACKBUTS AND SPECTROGRAMS Canadian physicist Hugh Le Caine quietly influenced the course of electronic music while secretly developing and building electronic instruments in the 1940s and '50s. An expert on Le Caine presents an overview of his work, includ- ing his revolutionary multiheaded tape-loop machine and electronic Sackbut. By Gayle Young
TECH PAGE: Objective Subjectivity A new speaker-evaluation system lets you gauge subjectivity.
DESKTOP MUSICIAN: Notation and the Internet How to buy sheet music and scores online.
RECORDING MUSICIAN: Underground Drum Sounds Left-field ideas for recording drums.
SQUARE ONE CLASSICS: Decibels Demystified, Part 1 Decibels are easy once you have some math under your belt.
WORKING MUSICIAN: Uncharted Territory Getting the most out of music industry charts.
FINAL MIX: You Say "Potato," and I Say "Tomato" It takes thought and experience to gain knowledge.
REVIEWS
IZ TECHNOLOGY RADAR 24 hard-disk recorder
STEINBERG Nuendo 1.5 (Mac/Win) digital-audio workstation
KORG CX-3 combo organ
PROPELLERHEAD Reason 1.0 (Mac/Win) software synthesizer/sampler
TRUTH AUDIO TA-1P passive monitors
CES SOFTWARE VST Instruments (Mac/Win) software synth plug-ins
SHURE KSM44 large-diaphragm condenser mic
TC WORKS Mercury-1 (Mac/Win) VST synthesizer plug-in
HHB Radius 3 Fat Man stereo tube compressor
QUICK PICKS: Serato Audio Research Pitch 'n Time 2.0.1 (Mac/Win) AudioSuite plug-in; NemeSys Music Technology Nashville High-Strung Guitars (GigaSampler) sample CD; BitHeadz Tubes, Tines, and Transistors 1.0 (Mac/Win) software synth; DACS Freque II ring modulator; Big Fish Audio Play the Tango sample CD; Gear Vision Logic Audio Basics and Techniques, vol. 1: Getting Started instructional video
MAKING A JOYFUL NOISE
An experienced recording engineer and a respected singer and vocal coach provide a wealth of little-known tips for getting the most from singers in the studio. By Myles Boisen with Cary Sheldon
COVER STORY: WORLD OF OPTIONS DVD-R is now a practical, affordable recording technology for personal studios. However, the new medium presents musicians with a number of issues and several competing formats. EM sorts out the capabilities and applications of each format and describes the tools for DVD-R production. By Gary Hall
MASTER CLASS: LEARNING THE LEXICON
This feature's advanced programming tips and tricks will help you get the most out of Lexicon's powerful, affordable MPX 100 and MPX 500 effects processors. Learn how to gain access to and use hidden and undocumented features, explore thorny and unusual combinations of algorithms, and discover unfamiliar parameters. By Michael Cooper
TECH PAGE: Supreme Being Kenwood's Supreme compensates for lossy MP3 encoding.
PRO/FILE: Emphatic Statement Hanna takes a no-frills approach to his first drum'n' bass album.
DESKTOP MUSICIAN: Desktop, Tabletop, or Laptop? Which computer is best for your music-production needs?
SQUARE ONE CLASSICS: Decibels Demystified, Part 2 Find out the differences between dBu, dBy, and dBm, and more.
WORKING MUSICIAN: Distribution Roundtable Three industry insiders reveal how music distribution really works.
FINAL MIX: They Are What You Ask Interview prospective creative partners with proven techniques.
REVIEWS
KORG Karma keyboard workstation
SONIC FOUNDRY Vegas Audio 2.0 (Win) multitrack audio editor TC-HELICON VoicePrism vocal harmony processor
A.R.T. Tube MP Studio tube-microphone preamp
METRIC HALO ChannelStrip 1.2.2 (Mac) signal-processing plug-in
HHB PortaDisc MDP500 portable MiniDisc recorder
SOUND BURST Fx4u 1.2, vol. 1-3 (VST; Win) effects plug-ins
QUICK PICKS: Rising Software Musition 2.0.2.11 (Win) ear-training software; Sound Burst Classic Synths sample library; NemeSys Music Technology Peter Ewers's Symphonic Organ Samples (GigaSampler) sample CD; Sherman Filterbank 2 multimode filter
features
Loris Holland Talent wins out over personal modesty in Holland's winding road to the star producer gig. Learn the fun- damentals of his style in this keyboard-heavy Master Class. Spotlight: Scapegoat Wax Low-budget all the way, Okeeblow showcases some of the funkiest songwriting ever pumped out of an SP-1200.
2-Step Workshop Insider tips from Tyler Stone and Shobhan on the nitty-gritty of a hot new dance style.
Spotlight: Apocalypse Now Redux Ed Goldfarb faced the challenge of creating new vintage synth cues for the director's cut release of a classic film.
Spotlight: Tim & Bob To produce hit R&B singles, they quiz the artist and then play the track straight to tape.
Hot Tips: Akai MPC2000 Squeeze more from the box that put the hip in hip-hop.
studio sense
Digital Audio Bit depth and sampling rate control what you hear.
Processing Get more realistic ambience with these parameters.
keyboard reports
Emagic EVP88 Modeled electric piano plug-in for Logic.
Korg D1600 Multitrack digital recorder.
Akai Aksys Remote editor for $5/6000 samplers.
NI Battery Percussion synth plug-in (Mac, PC, VST).
Magix Audio Cleaning Lab Vinyl cleanup/CD burning software (PC).
M Audio Omni I/O Computer audio interface (Mac, PC).
Short Takes Line 6 Delay Modeler, Waldorf Micro Q Keyboard.
Sounds Big Fish Electric Ghetto, Soundengine.com Electronibeatz!
departments
Letters Computers onstage, lack of inspiration, percussion pads, and John Lewis remembered.
In Review Tony Monaco, Haujobb, Stereo MC's, new age piano, Thelonious Monk, and more.
411 Eat Static, Shriekback, perseverance pays, a custom Mini, and a must-have for dead Kiss fans.
New Gear Digital pianos, hardware and software effects, nearfield monitors, recorders, mics, and more.
Workspace More than simply Qute: Q's PC-based remix studio in L.A.
columns
Computer Recording NEW Surround mixing in Digital Performer 3.0.
Dance Mix by Rob Hoffman Learn how to open up cluttered, claustrophobic, tracks.
Sound Forum by Peter Gorges Discover the many colors of FM synthesis.
Reel World by Jeff Rona The director likes to wing it in the studio.
Keyboard Basics by Jim Aikin Can't seem to iron out those finger flubs?
Composing by Richard Leiter The client wants a ton of music fast!
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail Peek inside the Gleeman Pentaphonic Clear.
features
Nashville NAMM What was hot (other than the barbecue and the weather) at the summer music gear expo: the Nord Electro 73, the Roland Fantom, the Minimoog Voyager, a new Akai MPC, a TASCAM rewritable CD burner, Yamaha's AW2816 recorder, and lots more!
Native Plug-In Bundles A cornucopia of audio massaging tools: Ease Nautilus Bundle (page 36), DSound Stomp'n FX Vol. 2 (38), DSound Simple Audio Plug-In Pack I (42), GRM Tools (44), PSP MixPack (48), Ultrafunk Sonitus:fx (52), Waves Renaissance Collection 2 (54). Plus a list of downloadable plug-ins (58) and past Keyboard reviews (60).
Spotlight: Groove Armada Getting down to Earth and taking it on the road: Andy Cato and Tom Findlay tell how they do it.
Master Class: 4th Chords Well-known jazz author and educator Mark Harrison explains how to use 4th-chords in a variety of styles.
Spotlight: Jovino Santos Neto Tips on how to play Brazilian jazz from Hermeto Pascoal's former keyboard mainstay.
studio sense
Mixing Common-sense signal routing on the aux bus.
Computer Recording Syncing, stretching, and slicing loops in Emagic Logic Audio,
keyboard reports
Native Instruments Absynth Software synthesizer (Mac).
IK Multimedia SampleTank Sample playback software (Mac, PC).
Emagic emi 216 USB audio interface.
Yamaha 9000 Pro Keyboard workstation.
5 Short Takes Soundcraft Spirit M8, PreSonus BlueTube.
Sounds Discrete Drums Rock/Alternative, Sonomic downloadable loops.
departments
Letters Workflow tips, extra keys, our review schedule, and a hip-hop heads-up.
In Review Maxwell, Babyface, European jazz/folk, and a major music business book.
411 Marcia Ball, Web resources, Clifford Carter, confidence tricks, tracking generators, Lowell George, unsigned talent, and the MacWorld Expo.
Workspace Modular madness in John Blackford's New York loft.
columns
Dance Mix by Francis Preve Inspirational experiments from the secret stash.
Solo Piano by Harold Danko What goes up must come down - all at the same time.
Keyboard Basics by Ernie Rideout How to find a good teacher and make the most of your lesson time.
Soundforum by Peter Gorges Deeper into FM with the free Soundforum softsynth.
Reel World by Jeff Rona
Meeting and guiding young film composers at Aspen.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail The Ensoniq ESQ-1 workstation.
features
BT Few producers are as fanatical as BT when it comes to slicing and dicing their audio. Tips on audio processing and filmscore work, the inside story on his 'N Sync hit and his new sample library, and more.
Spotlight: Robert Rich On the frontiers of ambient electronics, Rich assem- bles computer audio tracks by improvising on an analog modular.
Master Class: Brazilian Rhythms Pianist/author Jeff Gardner shows how to work authentic Brazilian rhythms into your keyboard comping or drum tracks.
Spotlight: Gareth Jones Frank commentary from the studio mastermind behind Depeche Mode and other platinum acts.
Hot Tips: TC Spark FXmachine How to set up rhythmic filtering, gated delays, stereo enhancement, sneaky auto-wah effects, and more in this popular audio editor/processor software.
studio sense
Digital Audio Sorting out word clock issues in an all-digital studio.
Cubase VST Comping a vocal track with the scissors and mute tools.
Digital Home Recording Spotting sonic problems with a spectrum analyzer.
keyboard reports
Yamaha Motif Sampling/sequencing keyboard.
NI Reaktor Modular synth/effects software.
TC Works Powercore Add-on DSP board with effects.
Electrix Repeater Interactive loop player/recorder.
Short Takes 1 Tech 21 Trademark 10 amp, Muon Electron VST synth.
Sounds Big Fish Slo Funk and Dread.
departments
Letters Recollections of the Apocalypse, and readers weigh in on performing with sequenced tracks.
In Review Björk gets personal, New Order bounces back, and Jordan Rudess tears it up.
411 Hiring the right crew, great historical photos, a new vocal sampling trick, Basement Jaxx gets down, plus Web resources and other tidbits.
New Gear A vintage synth returns in software, plus a Mackie hard disk recorder, affordable Cakewalk sequencing, a no-screws piano-to-MIDI retrofit, new soundware, and much more.
Workspace Drool over Henry Hsiao's skylight-enhanced studio.
columns
Dance Mix by Francis Preve Put your next mix over the top with filtering, vocoding, or static flanging.
Soundforum by Peter Gorges Exploring oscillator sync.
Composing by Richard Leiter Practical advice on writing great lyrics.
Reel World by Jeff Rona How to prepare an on-spec demo for a scene.
Keyboard Basics by Ernie Rideout Put on those headphones and start transcribing your favorite licks.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail An all-time best seller the Korg M1.
features
SOUND EXTRAVAGANZA Learn about some great sample libraries, find out how developers work their magic, and more in this month's special section.
The Sound Business Leading developers and industry pros analyze trends and air their gripes in this freewheeling roundtable discussion.
Sample CD Roundup Ten hot new sound libraries reviewed: Monster Beats (p. 40), Cut'n It Up 2 (p. 40), Guitar Studio (p. 41), King Tone Grooves (p. 41), Ancient Worlds (p. 42), Solo Woodwinds and Solo Brass (p. 42), 160dB: The Drum&Bass Interface (p. 44), Interactive String Section (p. 44), Rare Instruments (p. 46), and Virtual Analog, Vol. 1 (p. 46).
The Making of Symphonique Strings Behind the scenes at the sessions for Roland's new expansion board.
The Making of eLAB Dance Libraries Sweden's Erik Svahn puts musical feel first, technology second.
Sound Review Index Check out the sample libraries we've reviewed in past issues.
Spotlight: Phil Vassar A piano pounder climbs up the country charts.
Master Class: Using Jazz Chords Andy Laverne shows new ways to use some versatile voicings.
Spotlight: Freddie Ravel Bringing the Latin flavor to Al Jarreau's band and a solo project.
keyboard reports
Clavia Nord Electro EP and modeled drawbar organ.
MOTU Digital Performer 3.0 Recording/sequencing software (Mac).
Antares Auto-Tune 3 Pitch correction software (Mac, PC).
Short Takes INI B4 v. 1.1 organ software, Trident Signature Two mic pre.
studio sense
Digital Audio Do you need a word clock generator?
Processing Introducing multiband dynamics control.
MIDI Sequencing Synth recording and editing tricks.
departments
Letters The live sequencer debate continues, new uses for crowd noise, and an extra envelope.
In Review Billy Joel's classical debut, a Steamroller Christmas, and books for pros.
411 Bigger live synths, SoundFont resources, Moenia, a mondo trackball, Diana Krall's outside voicings, and don't trash your cash!
New Gear Akai Z4 and Z8 samplers, Shure KSM27 condenser mic, Creamware PowerPulsar DSP card, Waves Restoration software, and more -plus a special Holiday Gift Guide!
Workspace You gotta love the tiger-stripe carpet in Gary Mraz's Studio Voodoo.
columns
Dance Mix by Rob Hoffman Remixing for radio offers fresh opportunities.
Soundforum by Peter Gorges Filter blips and big bass tones.
Solo Piano by Harold Danko Modal voicings reharmonize a holiday favorite.
Keyboard Basics by Tom Brislin Master your pitchbender with these exercises.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail The fabled Linn 9000 beatbox.
Reel World by Jeff Rona The unusual challenges of a computer game soundtrack.
features
Master Class: Herbie Hancock After almost 40 years at the forefront of the jazz piano scene, Hancock is still exploring new horizons- rethinking the studio process and reworking his classic "Dolphin Dance" for a virtual EP on a laptop.
E-mu Turns 30 The ups and downs of America's longest-lived synth and sampler maker. Insiders tell behind-the-scenes stories of groundbreaking instruments like the Emulator and the SP-1200.
Spotlight: Telefon Tel Aviv On the frontiers of sound design, this underground duo mixes sharp rhythms with mellow Rhodes.
Hot Tips: Propellerhead Reason Learn to make fatter synth sounds, slice and dice drum loops, program synced sweeps, and develop bizarre sound effects in this popular dance work- station software.
studio sense
Cakewalk Sonar Give your beats a better feel with these power user tips.
Mastering EQ Craig Anderton shows how to apply a platinum EQ curve to your mix.
keyboard reports
Roland Fantom 76-key workstation synth.
Magix Samplitude Producer 2496 Multitrack recording software (PC).
Ableton Live Loop arranging and performance software (Mac).
Steinberg HALion Virtual sampler (VST 2.0).
Korg Electribe EM-1 Affordable drum/synth groovebox.
Short Takes TC-Helicon VoicePrism Plus, Midiman Oxygen 8.
2 Sounds Zero-G iFX Matinée and Brutal Beats.
departments
Letters Top synth recordings, Smalltalk, microtuning resources, and thoughts on what we're doing right (and wrong).
In Review CDs from Matt Haines, Niacin, Ben Folds, Robert Walter, Igor Kipnis, Caroline Dahl, and others.
411 Russ Irwin with Aerosmith, the amazing Batkeyboard, Moe Denham busts out, sampling your synths, cold calls, and much more.
New Gear AES New York unveils interfaces, preamps, and recorders. Plus: A new Triton, LM4 virtual drums, Digitech vocal effects, MusicPad Pro sheet music display, Mackie monitors, and more.
Workspace Brian Tarquin has produced some important TV and film music in his compact but powerful home studio.
columns
Dance Mix by Greg Rule What to do when you need to change the mix in a pre-mixed loop.
Soundforum by Peter Gorges Pry off the front panel and take a look at how signals are routed.
Solo Piano by Harold Danko How to play from a lead sheet.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail A monophonic Italian import: the Crumar Spirit.
Reel World by Jeff Rona You can't step into the same river twice, so roll up your pants and start wading!
PRODUCTION Build a Complete Track Time to put those free instruments we've given you to work! We take you step by step through the production of a summer trance track, using only the tools supplied on the cover CD-ROM
PROGRAMMING Synthesis Masterclass Are you getting the most out of your synths? Get ready to delve into some hardcore programming and come up with your own original sounds
PROGRAMMING Sampling Masterclass Let's forget about 'realistic sounds' for a moment, as we discover how to unleash the creative potential of that most vital of instruments - the sampler
HARDWARE CONTROLLERS Hands-on Control
If there's one bit of hardware that we'd say was essential in any studio, it's a MIDI controller. Here we show you how to get those knobs working
REWIRE Get Wired We love Propellerhead's Reason and ReBirth, and thanks to a clever invention called ReWire, both of these can be used as plug-in instruments controlled by your sequencer of choice. Here's how...
FEATURES The History of Virtual Instruments 'Once upon a time, there was a little synth called Neon...' It wasn't even that long ago, but how things have changed! Join us on a journey through the seminal moments in plug-in instrument history
Virtual Instrument Plug-in Standards VST, DXI, MAS, RTAS, TDM... what do they all mean, and more importantly, which of these formats is compatible with your sequencer? Let's find out
FAQ If you're new to this virtual instrument lark, turn here first to find out the answers to all your basic questions
The Essentials There are more virtual instruments out there than you can shake a stick at, so where can you find out which ones are the best for your chosen genre of music? Right here, that's where!
What the Pros Use We quizzed pro producers, engineers and musicians to find out exactly which virtual instruments float their boat and why. You may be surprised...
Virtual Instruments: The Future We gaze into our crystal ball with the help of some top software designers - to predict where virtual instrument technology will take us in the future
GEAR
Reviews We put 16 of the biggest, best and most popular virtual instruments on the market today to a brand-new test:
Native Instruments Absynth, Native Instruments FM7, Native Instruments Reaktor 3, SoundQuest Infinity, Steinberg HALion, Native Instruments Kontakt, Steinberg Virtual Guitarist, Waldorf PPG Wave 2.v, Emagic ES2, Emagic ESX24, AAS Tassman 2.1, Native Instruments Battery, Steinberg The Grand, AAS Lounge Lizard, Edirol HyperCanvas, IK Multimedia Sample Tank
Soundcard Latency Thinking of buying a soundcard? First step: check our handy latency guide covering all the most popular cards
ROUND-UP Online VSTIs If you're looking for a bargain, a weird and wonderful instrument, or both in one, the internet is a great place to be. We save you some time by rounding up and rating 12 of the latest and greatest downloadable VSTIs out there
Buyer's Guide Our comprehensive guide to all the virtual instrument plug-ins on the market. How much they cost, where to get 'em and what we think of them
features
New Gear at NAMM This month's expanded New Gear coverage takes you behind the curtain at January's NAMM show for a peek at the latest and most exciting products.
Synths and Samplers Eye-catching hardware from all the usual suspects from Alesis through Yamaha high-profile plus a couple of newcomers
Pianos & Controllers Digital pianos and organs, plus home arranger keyboards and MIDI controllers.
Computer Recording Software, audio interfaces, and control surfaces.
Plug-Ins & Virtual Instruments Softsynths and effects for your computer.
Hardware Recording Tools All-in-one recorders, consoles, mic pre's, CD burners, and more.
Groove Tools A small but potent selection of new beatboxes.
Miscellaneous Products Manufacturer Contact List
Hot Licks at NAMM Drop into almost any keyboard booth at NAMM and you'll hear a top-notch player put on a dazzling. -display of digital dexterity. Our roving reporter captured some highlights.
Spotlight: Magelic Productions Marco Marinangeli and Harold Kleiner toot Steamboat Willie's horn with their world-class pop productions for the Disney empire.
keyboard reports
E-mu Proteus 2500 Rackmount synth/groovebox.
Steinberg Nuendo Multitrack recording software.
Linn AdrenaLinn Stompbox/groovebox.
Short Takes T.C. Electronic M-One XL, Technics SX-P50.
Sounds Spectrasonics Vocal Planet, Best Service XX Large Club Edition, and two new East West libraries from BT.
departments
LettersReaders respond to our February Guest Editorial on technological frustration.
In Review Bruce Hornsby, Jane Child, and Moon Theory, plus two outstanding new books.
411 Orbital maneuvers, Memorymoog heaven, keep- ing a positive attitude, modular mixing, more.
Workspace Check out the luxury lineup at Need Studios in the West Village.
columns
Dance Mix by Francis Preve Beats, schmeats - this month it's time to add pizzazz by processing the vocals.
Digital Home Recording by Craig Anderton A different way to work with Reason.
Solo Piano by Harold Danko Searching for a bigger piano sound? Chopin knew the secret.
Music for Picture by John Krogh Why not skip the VCR entirely and import digital video into your computer?
Soundforum by Peter Gorges Modulation doesn't have to mean a tangle of cables, but you need to know the signal flow.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail With analog filters, the Hammond Novachord was years ahead of its time.
REGULARS
News All the exciting new
products from this year's Frankfurt Musikmesse, including the brand-new Cubase, Reason 2, new Emagic synths and more!
Message Centre If you've got something on your mind, we want you to write in and tell us about it
Serial Interface Having problems in the studio? Chuck 'em at our expert technical team
Reader Tips Share your music-making tips with fellow CM readers
Reader Interactive Send us your demos (if you dare) and we'll give you our honest, unbiased opinion
TUTORIALS
PROGRAMMING Acid techno
Back to the old skool once again: get ready to create your very own acid techno masterpiece
SEQUENCING VST Masterclass Continuing our look at the new effects in Cubase 5.1. This month, it's the turn of the MIDI Comb filter to get a workout
SEQUENCING Logic Masterclass Our Odyssey into the Environment is nearing its finale. Here, we continue to create our synth editor...
LIVE INPUT Direct Action Tune your vocals live or apply effects to your guitar as you play and all without a piece of hardware in sight!
SOFTWARE Software Studio Masterclass A tour through the new features in FruityLoops 3.4 that will help speed up the creative process
SEQUENCING Sonar Masterclass We delve into the subject of multitrack recording, and demystify those puzzling CAL files
FEATURES Harry Gregson-Williams We talk to the top Hollywood composer who's leapt headfirst into video games with Metal Gear Solid 2
Better Bass The ultimate guide to creating the kind of bottom end that would have even J-Lo turning green with envy
How to release your own white label If you want to get your music out there and build up lots of hype at the same time, why not release your own 12"? We take you through the process
REVIEWS
WORLD EXCLUSIVE! Cakewalk Sonar 2 The dedicated PC sequencing package just got better! We put the new features and extra plug-ins to a comprehensive studio test
Edirol SD-90 Imagine a USB audio interface with an abundance of Roland sounds on it, and you'll start to get the idea.
Steinberg WaveLab 4 We check out the new and improved features of one of the recording world's favourite audio editors
Making Waves Studio If you find the steep learning curves of 'traditional' sequencers daunting, this all-in-one package may appeal
ROUND-UP Plug-in drum machines Four virtual drum machines are put to the test to find out which one will best get your beats working
features
Vintage Boards Younger players are discovering the excitement of playing the Rhodes, B-3, and other electromechanical instruments. Find out why!
How To Play: Brian Mitchell A New York session ace shares some funky licks and explains how he tracks his B-3, Wurly, Farfisa, and accordion in Pro Tools.
Care & Feeding Which repairs mean a trip to the shop, and which can you do yourself? Our panel of experts talks nuts and bolts.
Resources Need a service tech in the Midwest or Northeast? A wireless mic system for your accordion? Start here.
Spotlight: Baldwin Brothers Turning jam sessions into hot-and-heavy CD tracks on Cooking with Lasers.
The Residents Turn 30 San Francisco's mystery quartet has blazed an uncompromising trail across the pop music landscape.
keyboard reports
Roland SH-32 Tabletop synth module.
Novation K-Station Small keyboard, big sound.
Image-Line Fruityloops Groove creation software (PC).
Digidesign Mbox Desktop audio interface (Mac).
Line 6 Echo/Mod/Filter Pro Rackmount effects processors.
Blue Sky System One Powered monitors with subwoofer.
Sounds Ilio Skippy's Noizbox, Big Fish Audio Old School Funk Bass.
Short Take Main Squeeze accordion.
departments
Letters Bad manuals, 192kHz for bats, MIDI edits, latency, educational software, and more.
In Review Richard Bone goes lo-tech, plus Garbage, Bobby McFerrin, Max Morath, and synth pop.
411 Jan Hammer, time-saving tips, Derek Sherinian on auditions, Ian McLagan, and warm hands.
New Gear NAMM Pt. II New E-mu Proteus, Motion Sound combo amp, plus tons of mics, preamps, and effects from NAMM.
Workspace Synths rub shoulders with sitar and sarod in Alex Chigos's home studio.
columns
Dance Mix by Beck/Hoffman/Rule File handling tips, composing intros, and how to get a great vocal take.
Digital Home Recording by Craig Anderton Assembling the perfect solo in a computer multitrack, step by step.
Soundforum by Peter Gorges Learn what the oscillator knobs and buttons do in the free downloadable Soundforum synth.
Reel World by Jeff Rona Pushing software into new territory for the soundtrack of Black Hawk Down.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail The Synclavier pioneered high-end technologies that we take for granted today.
REGULARS
News Yamaha's long-awaited OPT launches, Sound Forge is updated (again!), Melodyne becomes affordable and Sonar 2 goes on the road...
Message Centre Got a lament, a gripe or a comment on anything computer music related? Write and tell us all about it
Serial Interface Why tear your hair out because of studio troubles? Let our expert technical team sort them for you....
TUTORIALS
SEQUENCING Logic Masterclass Getting deeper into the Environment, we create controls for some of the hidden parameters on our synth
SEQUENCING VST Masterclass Remaining on the FX tip with Cubase, we show you how to sync delays and flangers to your song's tempo. Neat...
SEQUENCING Software Studio Masterclass Prepare to get technical and delve deep into the world of FruityLoops with the X-Y and Formula controllers
SEQUENCING Sonar Masterclass New grooves for old? We take a look at the new Cyclone Groove Sampler DXI that comes with Sonar 2
FEATURES
The Perfect Track 2 You loved it, you wanted more, and we aim to please! In the sequel to last year's Perfect Track, we take you through recording, arranging, mixing and mastering a complete song, this time using real instruments
The Burning Question Getting that record contract may seem like a dream come true, but there are some unscrupulous labels out there. Here's how to make sure you don't get ripped off
1 Giant Leap You've seen them with Robbie Williams on TOTP; now it's time to talk tech with the duo behind the global laptop recording project
REVIEWS
WORLD EXCLUSIVE! NI Kontakt With a feature list to rival even the best hardware models, we couldn't wait to put the newest contender in the soft sampling ring to the CM test
Emagic Logic Control At last, we get our hands on Logic's dedicated hardware controller and find out that dreams can come true
EDIROL Super Quartet The classic rock line-up of guitar, bass, drums and keyboards is contained inside this new virtual instrument
Steinberg Warp VST Why bother with a traditional guitar amp setup when you can get kick-ass tones like this from a VST plug-in?
Tascam GigaStudio 32 Widely regarded as one of the most powerful soft samplers out there, GigaStudio now comes in cut-down format for those on a limited budget
Terratec DMX 6Fire 24/96 If you use your PC for games as well as music, this surround sound card may be what you've been looking for
M-Audio Duo We test this two-channel USB and stand-alone audio system
Mini reviews Six brand-new sample CD releases are fired up and put through their paces
features
Frankfurt Musikmesse Europe's premier music trade show was packed with exciting new products-check out late-breaking news on hardware synths from Access, Creamware, Novation, and Waldorf, software updates from Ableton, Arturia, Cakewalk, Emagic, Native Instruments, Propellerhead, and Steinberg, and a whole lot more!
How to Play: Tania Maria A Brazilian dynamo shows how to add energy to your Latin comping patterns.
MIDI Time-Stamping As computers get faster, MIDI timing paradoxically gets worse. Find out why- and what you can do about it.
Spotlight: Howard Jones Not many electronic keyboardists tour as leaders, but Jones has kept the faith. Find out about his new CDs and unusual stage rig.
Hong Kong Keys On tour with Anthony Chue, keyboardist with Chinese pop superstar Andy Lau.
keyboard reports
Roland XV-5050 Rackmount synth.
Elektron Machinedrum Drum machine.
Steinberg LM4 Mark II Software drum module (VST).
TC Works FX Machine VST plug-in host.
Steinberg The Grand Acoustic piano plug-in (VST).
Roland VS-2480 Stand-alone hard disk recorder.
Short Takes Summit Audio TD-100 preamp, Lucid CLKX6 clock distributor.
Sounds East West Joey Kramer Drum Loops, Big Fish R&B Backline.
departments
Letters Electro Lounge kudos, accompaniment tracks, Wendy Carlos sets the record straight, plus Leslie simulation, keyboard design, Tomita, and more.
411 Free downloads, one-finger chords, Moon Theory, updating Hanon, departures, Rialto, building business relationships, and Lonnie Liston Smith.
Workspace No, Jim Venable's custom-built studio isn't going to the dogs.
columns
Dance Mix by Francis Preve With a little help from a sampler or digital multitrack, any vocal track can turn into something surprising and fresh.
Digital Home Recording by Craig Anderton How to get synth tracks to blend with acoustic instruments in a mix.
Composing by Richard Leiter The client wants guitar? Don't sweat it. Just hire a guitar player and hand him these charts. (Charts? Guitar player? Never mind.)
Soundforum by Peter Gorges Get up close and personal with the filter in the free, downloadable Soundforum synth.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail Fond memories of one of the best-selling synths of all time the Yamaha DX7.
features
The Music of Alias Find out how composer Michael Giacchino blends electronica with a live orchestra while meeting tight deadlines. Cue sheets, session tips, even a chat with series creator J. J. Abrams on how he wrote the theme music in Reason—we've got the whole story.
PC Maintenance Operating a studio used to mean demagnetizing your tape heads, but now it means defragmenting your hard drive. Keep your music PC happy with these tested tips.
How to Play: Billy Mitchell If you want to get steady work as a keyboard player, keeping it simple and steady is more important than flashy playing.
keyboard reports
Korg Triton Studio Workstation keyboard.
VirSyn Tera Software synth (Mac, PC).
PG Music Band-in-a-Box 11 Auto-accompaniment software (PC).
Universal Audio/Mackie UAD-1 Hardware-accelerated plug-ins (Mac, PC).
Short Takes Maxon PH-350 phaser, Metasonix TM-1 waveshaper.
Sounds Big Fish Audio Black Butta 3, Native Instruments/Yellow Tools Studio Drums.
departments
Letters Hardware vs. virtual synths-readers weigh in. Plus Korg Oasys support, more Clavinet repair tips, and questions about online analog modulars.
In Review Walter Afanasieff gives good pop, Kill Switch Klick gets mellow, and Barbara Nissman does Prokofiev right.
411 Buying gear vs. leasing, online resources, vocal processing, a mystery organ, live amplification, tap tempo sync, and software developers talk piracy.
New Gear A new Mac, a softsynth for singers, plug-ins from GRM Tools, BIAS Deck decked out, plus condenser mics, sounds, and more.
Workspace The Steinway grand and glassed-in iso booth make David Landon's Whip Records studio a prime choice for small ensemble recording.
columns
Dance Mix by Greg Rule More fresh ways to chop up a sustaining sound for gated or arpeggiated effects.
Digital Home Recording by Craig Anderton The REX file format is a formidable tool for tempo-matching your beats.
Music for Picture by John Krogh How to set up your sequencer for commercial music production.
Computer Recording by Michael Hoover Sonar's Cyclone DXi makes it easier to slice and dice sampled loops.
Solo Piano by Harold Danko Just getting started on keyboard? Wrap your fingers around these classic rhythm riffs.
Soundforum by Peter Gorges Filter resonance and key tracking.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail Remembering the popular Oberheim OB-X.
features
The Big 3 The Korg Triton Studio, Roland Fantom, and Yamaha Motif are the biggest new players on the workstation scene. In this special feature, we stack up their features side-by-side, deliver a batch of hot tips on each, and present "behind the scenes" info about how they were developed. Blue Ribbon awards await the best of the best in a variety of categories.
Korg Triton Studio
Roland Fantom
Yamaha Motif
Big 3 Spec Comparison Chart
The Making of: Korg Triton Studio
The Making of: Roland Fantom
The Making of: Yamaha Motif
Korg Triton Hot Tips
Roland Fantom Hot Tips
Yamaha Motif Hot Tips
Big 3 Resources Blue
Ribbon Awards
Spotlight: Michael Bearden Keyboardist and music director to the stars, Michael Bearden talks about life on the road, the state of the music industry, and the making of his Ilio sample CD Keys to the City.
How To Play: Andy LaVerne Bill Evans revolutionized the way keyboardists play chords. In this Keyboard exclusive, Andy LaVerne takes those voicings to their next logical step, and shows you how to get these new sounds into your playing.
keyboard reports
Native Instruments Kontakt Software sampler (PC, Mac).
Red Sound Elevata Analog modeling synth.
Antares Kantos Software synthesizer (PC, Mac).
Event EZbus Digital mixer and audio/MIDI interface.
Steinberg VoiceMachine Pitch processing and harmonizing plug-in (PC, Mac).
Short Takes Glyph M Project.
Sounds AMG Kick-Ass Brass.
departments
Letters Captains of industrial music close ranks, a call for all music, and don't touch those Keyboards.
411 Plunk down some new blues voicings, take a ride with Los Fabulosos Cadillacs, get into the guts of your Roland synths, read about Apple in the Big Apple, find out how Mike writes segues for the ultimate showgirl, and more.
New Gear at Nashville NAMM Hitsville dished up some sweet keyboards and synths, including the Alesis Ion, Clavia Nord Electro 2, Korg microKorg, Moog Voyager, Roland XV-2020, Voce Key5 organ, and Yamaha's Tyros and S90. Take a peek at the new keyboard amps and control surfaces, too.
Workspace David Huff's down-home Pro Tools studio.
columns
Dance Mix by Doug Beck Hip-hop in the house.
Digital Home Recording by Craig Anderton The basics of using sample CDs.
Composing by Richard Leiter Look to your heroes for inspiration.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail The MXR Pitch Transposer warped pitch at the touch of a button.
features
Rick Wakeman & Yes Rick Wakeman's 30-year association with Yes has been one of the more fruitful and long-lived collaborations in rock history. Keyboard columnist Tom Brislin, himself a member of the Yes alumni club, asks Rick the kinds of questions that players and admirers have been dying to ask- and gets the "Roundabout" in the process.
Maintaining Your Music PC, Part 2 Ethan Winer's first installment of this series was a smash hit with readers. Now he's back with a second dose of essential info that every PC-based musician will want to know.
Road Warriors Keyboard goes on tour with five top bands to get the lowdown on road life. Get up close and personal with the keyboardists on tour with Mary J. Blige, Alicia Keys, Kid Rock, Bon Jovi, and N'Sync.... How did they get the gig, prep the show, build their rigs, and survive the ins and outs of touring?
keyboard reports
Access Virus C Analog modeling synth.
Generalmusic Promega 3 Digital piano.
Cakewalk Sonar 2.0 Digital audio and MIDI sequencer (PC).
Applied Acoustics Lounge Lizard Software synth (VST).
Musitek SmartScore Sheet music scanning software (PC, Mac).
Short Takes DanElectro Reel Echo and Free Speech.
Sounds I eLab Phuture Sound of House.
departments
Letters Props to Vanessa Carlton, that GUI feeling, pirates on the horizon, keep the music coming, and more.
In Review The best of BT, some un-smooth fruit from Strawberry, new jams from the Yellowjackets, hot licks from Andy LaVerne, and more.
411 Mobile Mellotrons, don't give up on outboard FX, life discovered on Moonlife, Mike likes Shakira, Arjen Lucassen goes it alone, and more.
New Gear Steinberg's way deep Plex softsynth, Apple's new G4 tower, M-Audio's portable Studio Pack, Sonic Foundry's Acid 4, MOTU's 2408mkIII, a new Technics portable keyboard, and more.
Workspace John Averese's synth-packed Digital Performer room, with a view.
columns
Dance Mix by Francis Preve Getting greazy EP and bass sounds in a virtual studio.
Digital Home Recording by Craig Anderton Using automation to go over the top with effects.
Solo Piano by Harold Danko Don't overlook this shade of blue.
Computer Recording by Clint Ward Getting deep into Logic Audio's REX file capabilities.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail A previously unknown synth from the Steppes.
features
Holiday Gift Guide 2002! Here's a hot tip: Leave this magazine in a conspicuous place where your loved ones can find it. Dog-ear the reviews of the stocking-stuffers you crave. Make references in casual conversation to the shocking drop in the price of gear you can't live without fact you gleaned from this special issue. Then go get some really big socks.
Korg microKorg
Roland XV-2020
TASCAM Pocketstudio 5
Plugsound Plug-ins
Korg Kaoss Pad 2
Roland MC-09
Camel Audio SuperCamelPhat
Ilio Entertainments Analog Meltdown
East West Public Enemy
Zero-G Escape from the Planet of the Breaks
Bang 4 Buck Bargains
Here are our favorite gear bargains from 2002.
Utility Goods From headphones to gospel licks, this list of indis- pensable items has something for everyone.
Keyboard Reviews Index Looking for a review from a back issue? You'll find the past year of Keyboard indexed here.
How To Play: Bob Baldwin He may be the voice of smooth jazz in New York, but Atlanta-based Bob Baldwin has a soulful approach to keyboards that gives any track a deep urban feel.
Underworld The techno-trance groundbreakers talk about their improvisational approach to composition, the burnout that led to a hundred days off, and later, to the new CD titled A Hundred Days Off.
keyboard reports
Propellerhead Reason 2.0 Virtual studio software (Mac, PC).
Akai Z8 Hardware sampler.
Arturia Storm 2.0 Virtual studio software (Mac, PC).
Steinberg Plex Software synth (VST).
departments
Letters The Three Kings, more on piracy, and putting the lid on the worst aspects of 20th Century music.
In Review The Supreme Beings return, Monty Alexander mixes it up, SNMNMNM squeezes and wheezes, Jill Cohn opens some windows, and Dave Limina takes you down the Hammond Highway.
411 The revenge of N*E*R*D, an epic from Aaron English, maximizing sample RAM, Mike McKnight and Dave Rosenthal work for the Boss, and much more.
New Gear Novation's new KS polyphonic synths, the Nord Electro 2 gets a rack, low-cost Behringer mixers, the all-analog Vermona Perfourmer synth, Native Instruments Traktor 2, Electro-Voice mics, Acoustics First acoustical treatments, and more.
Workspace Raphael Digiorio's Diamond Dreams are no longer in the rough.
columns
Dance Mix by Francis Preve More about what disco means to you and your tracks.
Digital Home Recording by Craig Anderton Using technology to lay down great vocals.
Composing by Richard Leiter A holiday production story to warm your heart.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail The Oxford OSCar took things one note at a time.
features
MIDI Turns 20 Happy Birthday, MIDI! Keyboard looks at the 20-year history of MIDI, and interviews MIDI's movers and shakers, past and present. Also included: a special tutorial called "Understanding MIDI: 20 Essential Facts."
Spotlight: Rob Burger Keyboardist Rob Burger defies categorization, but that doesn't bother John Zorn, Bill Frisell, Norah Jones, and dozens of other artists who tap his tal- ents. Now Rob steps out as a solo artist with his incredible collection of keyboard instruments from another era.
How To Play Chuck Leavell has been pounding the 88s for the Rolling Stones for 20 of their 40 years. Chuck gives you a close look at the gear, the hot licks, and the business of keeping the Stones at the top of their game.
keyboard reports
Yamaha S90 Synthesizer.
Digidesign Digi 002 Hard disk recording interface and controller.
Emagic ES2/EVOC20 Synth plug-ins for Emagic Logic Audio (Mac, PC).
Cycling '74 Pluggo 3.0 VST plug-in environment and bundle (Mac).
TC/Waldorf D-Coder Synth plug-in for TC Works Powercore.
Mackie HR624 and HRS120 Studio monitors and subwoofer.
Short Takes Aphex 207.
Sounds Discrete Drums Series II.
departments
Letters Congrats to Tom Brislin, props to E-mu, waiting for the MP3 trickle-down effect, analog resources, and looking for new horizons.
In Review The new Dehli 9, Keyboard teammates on disc, unknown gems, smooth jazz from the biggies, plus a little TLC.
411 Erasure covers the hits, tweaking K2600 reverbs, Rachel Z with Peter Gabriel, leggo my harpsichord, Mike on mics, the Neptunes, and more.
New Gear AES Report Walk the aisles with the Keyboard crew, and get the mouthwatering details on what was new at last. year's fall gathering.
Workspace In which Steve Porcaro & Son turn knobs and crank out scores.
columns
Dance Mix by Greg Rule Hot tips for fresh loops and quick vocal track tuning.
Digital Home Recording by Craig Anderton Harnessing the power of software filters.
Solo Piano by Harold Danko Putting diminished chords to work.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail Mark's favorite synth: the Commodore 64.
features
Walter Afanasieff With more than his fair share of productions at the top of the charts, keyboard virtuoso Walter Afanasieff has the secrets- and he shares them with you in this Keyboard exclusive.
Maintaining Your Music PC, Part 3 We've gone over drive partitions, backup strategies, and file organization. In this installment, we get down to the nitty-gritty of optimizing your Windows machine for digital audio recording.
How To Play: P.J. Morgan There's more to music ministry than just knowing when to play a plagal cadence. P.J. Morgan points out the important things to keep in your mind, your heart, and in your fingers. And the rest of your body? Just keep it behind a B3, please.
keyboard reports
Sonic Foundry Acid 4.0 Loop and MIDI sequencer/recorder (PC).
Spectrasonics Atmosphere Software synthesizer plug-in (Mac, PC).
E-mu Vintage Pro Vintage keyboard and drum machine sound module.
TC Works Plug-ins VST/MAS plug-ins for PowerCore (Mac, PC).
X-Vision Audio RT Player Pro VST/VSTi host software (Mac, PC).
Motion Sound KP2005 Stereo keyboard amp.
Short Takes Pioneer CDJ1000.
Sounds Ueberschall Da Nu R n' B Hip-Hop 2 and Zero-G Beats Working.
departments
Letters Software piracy (round four), and will the real 21st Century Music please stand up?
In Review The very last of Bill Evans, rising jazz star Kerry Politzer, improv guru Wayne Horvitz, Keyboard's own Robbie Gennet, brooding synths from Red Flag, and more.
411 The twin moons of Deepsky, a macro for the microKorg, the Echo from Druento, remixing with Mike City, and turning on to TV with Mike McKnight.
New Gear Steinberg's V-Stack, Edirol's new USB keyboard controllers, Webster Audio's SampleMove, Zoom hard disk multitrackers, Novation KS Rack, Cakewalk Project 5, and more.
Workspace Rockin' in Scott Rockenfield's keyboard cornucopia.
columns
Dance Mix by Greg Rule Greg spends some Leisure time in the "Ghetto."
Computer Recording by Brian McKeever Getting some OMF out of Sonar 2.
Composing by Richard Leiter Putting diminished chords to work.
Reel World by Jeff Rona Harnessing the power of software filters.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail Monophonic voice from the past: the Clavioline.
features
Rhythm Injection Don't touch that drum machine: There's a ton of amazing rhythms waiting to be released from your synths, for the price of a little tweaking in a voice editor. Jim Aikin gets you synced in no time.
Bill Champlin Keyboardist/singer legend Bill Champlin has ridden the roller coaster of success from The Sons of Champlin to Chicago and back. Here's a little bit of what he learned along the way.
Spotlight: Tosca Livin' large in the lounge, Tosca talks about their celebrated approach to downtempo grooves.
Spotlight: Gabriel Tour Peter Gabriel is Growing Up, and tech wiz Dickie Chappell describes the process.
keyboard reports
Studio Electronics ATC-X Analog synth module.
Dave Smith Instruments Evolver Analog/digital synth module.
Emagic EVD6 Plug-in Logic/VST virtual Clavinet (Mac, PC).
FXpansion DR-008 VST/DXi drum synth/sampler plug-in (PC)
Mackie Control MIDI control surface.
Short Takes Sennheiser HD280
Sounds Kurzweil ROM-4
departments
Letters High synth expectations, in the wake of Wakeman, and a call for more attention to corporate comings and goings.
In Review Cool spins from The Tao of Groove, Styx, Henry Butler, Rob Burger, and more.
411 Mickey Mouse's piano man, subtlety in sampling, Reason-able stutters, Joe Jackson looks sharp again, "What's a promo tour?" with Mike McKnight, and more.
New Gear Steinberg's Virtual Guitarist Electric Edition, M-Audio's surround soundcard, BitHeadz synth plug-ins for Unity, virtual cheese with the Dash Synthesis Combo Sister, monitor systems from Rolls and Aviom, and more.
Workspace Joseph Rivers is the source for synth history.
columns
Dance Mix by Ramin Sakarai Into the real "Ghetto" with a Supreme Being.
Digital Home Recording by Craig Anderton The hottest trend in digital recording: analog tape.
Solo Piano by Harold Danko Hand position awareness comes in handy.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail Mark's heart finally warms to the ARP Odyssey.
features
New Gear 2003 Our time in Anaheim was not misspent: Here's a peek at the amazing synths, software, gear, and players we got to hang with at the Winter NAMM show.
How To Play: Think Triads Andy LaVerne has come up with a simple, easy-to- remember way of creating cool chord voicings, using things your hands already know how to play: Triads.
Korg Turns 40 Nothing tells a story like a good picture
or in this case, 50 pictures. Leaving no synth unturned, Mark Vail chronicles the history of one of the biggest forces in keyboards.
Alternative Music Careers: Karaoke The Karaoke phenomenon has Wade Starnes up to his eyeballs in work. Here's how he creates radio-quality tracks under fierce deadlines.
keyboard reports
Novation KS-4 Analog modeling synth with arpeggiators.
Roland MC-909 Sampling groovebox.
Ableton Live 2.0 Audio sequencing instrument (Mac, PC).
Bitshift PHATfactory 001 VST/DXi loop player/processor plug-in (Mac, PC).
Short Takes Universal Audio 2-610, Discwelder DVD Author, BeadBrain Skullshaker.
Sounds Primesounds Methods of Mayhem II.
departments
Letters Don't bury the bad news, praise worthy of praise music, MIDI's birthday (the day after), and more.
In Review An all-out Massive Attack, the view from Scenic, Dave Brubeck stops in for Starbucks, Supergrass gathers no moss, Michael Wolff can't stop his Impure Thoughts, and today's Yesterday's New Quintet.
411 Beans in your ears, a time of transitions, London (Ontario) calling, Alicia Keys conquers the world, envisioning wireless in/out/thru, and make sure you try all of Mike's tips before you read his last sentence.
Workspace Robert Etoll defines the new sound of garage.
columns
Dance Mix by Francis Preve Can you really make Electroclash by bumping two synths together?
Digital Home Recording by Craig Anderton When it comes to realtime tweaks, hardware controllers have more fun.
Reel World by Jeff Rona Finding new ways of working with and without technology.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail Roger Linn's other sampling drum machine: the Akai MPC60.
features
Frankfurt Report Musikmesse is the largest music gear show in the world, and it never disappoints. Here's the latest crop of awesome synths, software, and gizmos, direct from the continent.
Prog Progresses Mullets and capes are a thing of the past, and it's still keyboards, chops, and sheer musicianship that brings out the crowds. Get acquainted with the top players in Prog in this exclusive interview.
How To Play: Think Triads, Pt. 2 Andy LaVerne builds on the foundation he laid down in the April issue, by showing you how to apply triad superimpositions to soloing.
Vienna Strings The most ambitious orchestra sampling project to date has been brewing on the outskirts of Vienna, Austria. Our intrepid executive editor takes you behind the baffles to reveal the secrets.
keyboard reports
Roland VR-760 Performance keyboard.
Emagic Logic 6 Audio/MIDI sequencer (Mac).
Cakewalk Project 5 Virtual studio software (PC).
rgc:audio z3ta+ Virtual synth (PC).
MOTU 2408mk3 PCI audio interface (Mac, PC).
Short Takes M-Audio Studiophile BX5 monitors.
Sounds eLab Ballistix, More Than Styx More Than Styx, Ilio Stark Raving Beats, Zero G Wired, East West Drumkit From Hell, CrimeSounds Virtual Sweet Reggae, Power FX Downtown Strings II.
departments
Letters Minimalist mayhem, chord symbol clash, Web resources, universal power, and more.
In Review Hiromi takes off, Judith Owen sings, Sys-Ex sounds off, Acid Cabaret on Zoloft, a new piano book, and more.
411 Prefuse keeps the circuits cool, Daniel Fisher's last synth trick, Jordan Rudess's online conservatory, burning tracks from the Keyboard Corner forum, the return of Chop Shop, Mike at the Grammies, and more.
Workspace Messin' around in the Mesa Room.
columns
Dance Mix by Doug Beck Mia's bold sampling adventure.
Digital Home Recording by Craig Anderton Hard sync for hard times.
Solo Piano by Harold Danko More on hand position.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail Stingz 'n' Thingz from Paia.
features
Songwriting Secrets Some of the most powerful hits have the humblest origins. Here's a look at how five top artists create chart-toppers by starting out with the basics: A piano and their voice.
Yamaha DX7 20th Anniversary Yes, it's been 20 years. We look back at the instruments and hits, and forward into the new world of FM programming available today.
How To Play: Tom Schuman Spyro Gyra has dominated the smooth jazz format for 25 years, and Tom Schuman's keyboard mastery has helped keep it there.
keyboard reports
Hartmann Neuron Modeling synthesizer.
Korg SP-300 Digital piano.
Steinberg V-Stack VST host software (Mac, PC).
Carvin KB1010 Keyboard amplifier.
Yellow Tools Culture Virtual percussion instrument (Mac, PC).
iZotope Trash Effect plug-in (PC).
Short Takes Emagic EMI6|2m, M-Audio Ozone.
Sounds Dan Dean Brass Ensembles, Ilio World Winds, Big Fish Off the Hook 2, Acoustic Guitars, Platinum Essentials, Discovery Firm 8-Bit Family, CrimeSounds Virtual Bossa.
departments
Letters Voyager sentiment, loop limitations, good service, basic requests, and more.
In Review Jacob Fred Jazz Odyssey goes to Colorado? Eddie Palmieri goes over the top, the Renovators vamp and revamp, Geoff Keezer gives Hank Jones a nod, a secret from a guitarist, and more.
411 Winter Music Conference, Apple's iPod activities, behind the scenes with Mike, and more.
New Gear Carvin keyboard amps, PneuDimensions keyboard stands, Zoom hard disk recorder, Digi's Massenberg EQ plug-in, Digital Music Doctor's Sonar tutorial, Studiologic controller, TASCAM Gigastudio for PCI, Electro-Harmonix Black Finger, and much more.
Workspace Cruisin' the Billboard charts with Cruz Martinez.
columns
Dance Mix by Rob Hoffman Want to get grungy? Think outside the software box.
Digital Home Recording by Craig Anderton Craig salutes FM with these handy programming tips.
Composing by Richard Leiter The art of song placement, part 1.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail A one of a kind synth, and the legend behind it.
features
Wyclef Jean From the Fugees to Whitney Houston, Wyclef Jean's production techniques and songwriting skills have created monster hits that have brought hip-hop to a worldwide audience. In this Keyboard exclusive, Clef takes you into the studio to talk about his new CD, his new label, and his biggest secret: He's his own favorite keyboard player.
Cakewalk Project5 Hot Tips, Part 1 This powerful virtual studio packs a punch; in this first installment of a two-part Hot Tips article, we cover the basic concepts of what makes this PC workhorse tick.
How To Play: Beaucoup Blues Mark Harrison shows you how to go from ham-fisted to happening with these in-depth blues keyboard techniques.
keyboard reports
Roland Fantom-S88 Sampling synthesizer workstation.
Cwejman S1 Modular Analog synth module.
Yamaha Tyros Portable auto-accompaniment keyboard.
LinPlug Albino VSTi virtual analog synth (Mac, PC).
Motion Sound Pro-145 Rotary speaker amplifier.
Short Take Yamaha Motif Rack.
Sounds Big Fish London Orchestral, Hardcore Breakbeat Action, Brush Artistry, Waldorf Q patches, AMG Dirtbag, 3DGG Super Funky Loops.
departments
Letters Progger's delight, basic needs, noticing notation, request for repairs, more.
In Review Classic Randy Weston, more Morcheeba, new views from Jason Lindner, hot licks on a Sugar Stick, an infusion of Niacin, and more.
411 Sammy Hagar comes to Harms, Tori Amos and Ben Folds on the road, Mike's backup tips, mad custom Andromeda, and more.
New Gear Carvin DCM2500 power amp, MOTU 828mk2 audio interface, Gator keyboard cases, Magix Music Maker DJ software, Fxpansion VST/AU adapter, and much more.
Workspace Mike Lattanzi and his surfeit of cool studio stuff.
columns
Composing by Richard Leiter Richard takes his song shopping to the next level.
Digital Home Recording by Craig Anderton Backing up isn't hard to do.
Solo Piano by Harold Danko Even the simplest triads can sound out of this world.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail The tiniest vintage item: the Yamaha QY10.
features
The Art of Extreme Noise Taking synths and sound design where none hav gone before, the bands comprising the industria and electronic body movement (EBM) genres ar thriving. In this roundtable discussion, some of th best in the business talk about what motivate them, and how they stretch their sounds.
Cakewalk Project5 Hot Tips, Part 2 In the final installment, we get deep into this coo virtual studio.
Mr. Goodchord Goes Keyboard Though conceived by guitarist Mick Goodrick, th Mr. Goodchord books offer a wealth of information for keyboard voicings, and it's taking the keyboard world by storm. Here's an easy introduction to thi powerful method.
keyboard reports
Alesis lon Analog modeling synth.
Kurzweil KME-61 Budget sample playback synth.
Technics SX-KN7000 Portable keyboard.
Virsyn Cube Additive soft synth (Mac, PC)
Cycling '74 Radial Multi-channel loop and sample performance software (Mac).
Steinberg Groove Agent VST drum pattern instrument (Mac, PC).
Short Takes Evolution UC-33 controller, BIAS SoundSoap.
Sounds PowerFX Love & Pop String Thing, Blues Organ Organisms, M-Audio ProSessions Mechanically Separated, Zero-G Ambient Textures.
departments
Letters High synth expectations, in the wake of Wakeman, and a call for more attention to corporate comings and goings.
In Review Client and Carney, P'Taah and Sasha, Spiegel and... a mountain of cool vintage synths? It's all here, and then some.
411 Rachael Sage is all the rage, Tim Drury with Whitesnake, Mike plays Madonna like a violin, and more.
New Gear Moog Piano Bar, Apple Macintosh G5, RPM Power Racklight Plus, Korg Karma software update, Dash Signature Abstract Guitar, Sound Quest MIDI Quest XL, and more.
Workspace Hopping from Cape Hope to the real Austin city limits with Ted Nelson.
columns
Digital Home Recording by Craig Anderton Get on the fast track to plug-in management.
Composing by Richard Leiter Richard gets into the hang of the country market.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail Hazelcom McLeyvier may be hard to pronounce, but its sound is legendary.
features
Samplers Go Soft! Samplers revolutionized the way we made music in the '80s, and now they've gone through a revolution of their own, shedding their hardware corporeal forms as a snake sheds its skin. Okay, maybe it's less poetic than all that, but there are plenty of great- sounding and powerful virtual samplers available, and we've put our collective minds to the task of sorting the field out for you.
Power Tools and Techniques for Sampling
Software Sampler Profiles Sample Format Conversion Programs
Sampler Voicing Hot Tips
Soundware Manufacturers
Soft Sampler Comparison Chart
New Gear Nashville NAMM It was hot outside, but the new gear inside of the Summer NAMM show in Nashville was even hotter. Here's a look at the latest.
How to Play: Two Bs, No Questions
Steve Winwood and Lucky Peterson are legendary performers, and they've recently returned to their B-3 roots. Here's what goes on when these two masters take the bench.
Spotlight: Steve Conn Gear isn't the only thing that's hot in Nashville; Steve Conn has been burning the candle at both ends by keeping up a rigorous sideman touring schedule and releasing a new solo album.
keyboard reports
Clavia Nord Lead Analog modeling synth.
Steinberg Xphrase Software synthesizer.
JOMOX AIRBase 99 and JaZBase 03 Digital/analog hybrid drum boxes.
Short Takes TC-Helicon VoiceWorks, MasterWriter Songwriting Software.
Sounds eLab Smokers Delight, Post Musical Instruments Grandioso Bosendorfer 290, M-Audio ProSessions elektron: Machinedrum and These Drums Are Loud, PrimeSounds Dirt Keeps the Funk, and East West ProSamples Ill Jointz.
departments
Letters Verklempt over Clef, bonkers for Basics, notationally curious, and more.
In Review Ripping new artists from Spain and Russia, Stateless in Sweden, back to the Inner City, and more.
411 Ozzy's Arp, Jim McGorman's Poison, the world of Animusic, Mike and Mariah, some classic Alphonse Mouzon, and more.
Workspace Guido is alive and well at Guidotoons in Nashville.
columns
Dance Mix by Francis Preve How to get a laptop to dance.
The Soft Studio by Craig Anderton Improve your soft sampler sounds with these cool tips.
Key Basics by Tom Brislin Tom is back to open your eyes and ears to expanding your chord vocabulary.
Solo Piano by Harold Danko Symmetrical approaches yield harmonic gems.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail Don Buchla's Music Easel is a work of art.
features
Scoring Flash Animation Macromedia Flash is changing the way animation is produced, and you can benefit from it. Top cartoon music composers Jody Gray and Michael Lau give you the inside track on how to make your music work in this brave new format.
The Lottapianos Tour: Tori Amos and Ben Folds Keyboard's resident rock star Tom Brislin has an intimate chat with Tori and Ben in the midst of their Lottapianos extravaganza.
How to Play: Geoffrey Keezer One of the creative geniuses of jazz, Geoffrey Keezer has a unique outlook on how to approach the piano; brought to you by former Keyboard editor in chief Marvin Sanders.
Spotlight: Kenna What else can be done with a good melody, a deep groove, and a ton of synths? Kenna has the answer.
keyboard reports
Clavia Nord Electro 2 Stage keyboard.
Moog PianoBar Acoustic piano MIDI interface.
TC PowerCore FireWire FireWire plug-in host.
Yamaha PSR-K1 Portable keyboard.
Speakeasy Preamps Keyboard tube preamps.
Short Takes Option 5 Destination Rotation.
Sounds Ilio Vienna Symphonic Library, William Coakley Perfect Piano Vol. 4, Zero-G Flamenco, Ueberschall FX_Area, Loopheads Loopkit Pro.
departments
Letters We love Winwood, Baghdad beats, life's lessons, and Keyboard's first personal.
In Review Basement Jaxx Kash in, Tony Monaco teams up with Joey D, Monk lives, Wes Styles and how, another incarnation of Ehron Vonallen, and more.
411 Mike advises his peers, Prince's Emancipation revisited, new jazz phenom Taylor Eigsti, and then some.
New Gear Live from New York, it's the AES show report! Also the annual Keyboard holiday gizmo guide.
Workspace If you have to fall on Heart Times, this is the place to do it.
columns
The Soft Studio by Craig Anderton Matrix modulation is as easy as checking a radio button.
Composing by Richard Leiter Don't just stand there; try something new!
Key Basics by Tom Brislin Now that you've got your triad inversions and major scales down, let's put them to the holiday test.
Reel World by Jeff Rona As Jeff's studio continues to evolve, so does creativity.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail Roland's D-50 was the dynamo of the late '80s.
features
Mike Garson with David Bowie Nearly 30 years ago, the insanely great piano solo on "Aladdin Sane" heralded one of the longest-running partnerships in creative rock: David Bowie and Mike Garson. Here is an exclusive look backstage at the huge Bowie tour and into Mike's creative life, too.
Spotlight Paul Van Dyk/BT Dance floors, mp3 players, and movie theaters the world over shake to the sounds of these inventive artists; here's a look at what went into their new chart-topping recordings.
The Making of Symphonic Orchestra A huge sampling project takes huge talent; here's an exclusive look at what went into the making of the East West/Quantum Leap mega-orchestra.
How to Play: Mr. Goodchord, Pt. 2 The world of new voicings is at your command with this second installment of "Mr. Goodchord Goes Keyboard."
keyboard reports
Cakewalk Sonar 3 Audio/MIDI sequencer.
IK Multimedia SampleTank 2 Software sampler with effects.
Arturia CS-80V Software synthesizer.
Studiologic TMK-88 Keyboard controller.
Digidesign Digi 002 Rack FireWire audio/MIDI recording system.
Short Takes Roger Linn Design Adrenalinn II
Sounds Sample CD Store Madd Jointz, Big Fish The Hybridizer, Big Fish Neo Soul, Best Service Disco Fever, Yellow Tools Real Guitars
departments
Letters Soft sampler sympathies, diminished dementia, chop busters, and is parts really parts?
In Review Bill Cunliffe spotlights the music of Earl Zindars, John Bischoff opens up the Apeture on sonic landscapes, Jen Elliot tells Secrets, Jon Glazer Dares to play the blues with Lisa Bell, Humbert emerges fully formed from the Everglades, and other cool spins.
411 Kevin Shields finds something in Translation, a sweet Clay C, Mike leaps into Mac OS X with eyes wide open, Wade Williamson and his Few Things, Bob James revisited, and many other tidbits.
New Gear CreamWare Prodyssey soft synth, Terratec Producer Phase 22 audio/MIDI card, Roland MP-60 digital piano, Carvin FX2 24-bit effects processor, Garritan Personal Orchestra sample orchestra software/plug-in, KeyToSound NetSynth Pilot, PMI Grandioso Bosendorfer 290 plug-in, Yamaha VST vocal plug-ins, and a ton more.
columns
Dance Mix by Francis Preve A look at the add-ons that make life with laptops possible.
The Soft Studio by Craig Anderton Using elastic audio with Ableton Live
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail With a Casio CZ-101 and a few D cells, you can still kick sand in the face of any other synth programmer on the beach.
Key Basics by Tom Brislin Here are some New Year's resolutions all keyboard players can adopt.
features
The Unreal Orchestra From hardware samplers to software instruments, the options for creating virtual symphonies have multiplied dramatically. Here is a look at how composers for film and for the concert stage make the most of their MIDI movements.
Spotlight: Fredwreck Rap and hip-hop producers are always hungry for new beats and soulful keyboard tracks, and Fredwreck is the guy to deliver the goods.
How to Play: Augment Your Diminished Usage, Pt. 2 Andy LaVerne takes the diminished scale to the next level, and gives you an original tune with which to apply your new skills.
Spotlight: Barenaked Ladies Kevin Hearn has overcome unimaginable hurdles to hit the road again with the Barenaked Ladies.
keyboard reports
Kurzweil K2661 Sampling and synthesizer workstation keyboard.
Korg microKontrol MIDI controller keyboard.
Steinberg Cubase SX 2.0 Audio/MIDI sequencer (Mac, PC).
Ableton Live 3.0 Audio sequencer.
Short Takes M-Audio OmniStudio, MOTU 828mkII
Sounds Ueberschall The VLP120, PrimeSounds A Funky Future, PowerFX The DV Composers Toolkit
departments
Letters In the middle of beginnings, a call for the silence of noise, keyboards for Canucks, and sound engineer etiquette.
In Review Alicia's all over the keys, a newfound Silver gem, Lisa Gerrard rides again, Big John Patton's B-3 grooves, and many more.
411 Rockin' with Rami Jaffee, stirring up Alphabet Soup, extreme MIDI controller kitbashing, Mike on Mac OS X, and digging Larry Young, 30 years later.
New Gear Zero-G Leon and Lola, Propellerhead ReCycle 2.1, eMedia Learn to Play Keyboard, VirSyn Tera 2, Starr Labs Ztar D3X, and then some.
columns
The Soft Studio by Craig Anderton Screen sets can set you up for efficient workflow.
Composing by Richard Leiter Managing your millions.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail Aries Modular Synths.
Key Basics by Tom Brislin What goes up may also come down, at least as far as arpeggios are concerned.
Dance Mix by Francis Preve The steps to laptop heaven.
features
Notation Nation What's new in the world of music notation software? Check out our feature-by-feature comparison of Finale 2004 and Sibelius 3, the latest in freeware and shareware, what's up with sheet music scanning programs everything for the noteheads in your life.
Spotlight: Jamie Muhoberac Synth wizardry meets studio savvy in the form of this modern day keyboard hero.
How to Play: Country Piano Want to learn the basics of country piano? Mark Harrison gets you going on the road to Nashville.
keyboard reports
Kurzweil PC1x Stage keyboard.
Soundart Chameleon Hardware DSP host.
Korg Electribe SX and MX Sampling and synth grooveboxes.
Dash Signature daAlpha2K and EVE Software synthesizers (PC).
Code Audio Beatburner Beat processing software (PC).
Short Takes Har-Bal Harmonic Balancer, TASCAM US-122.
Sounds Drums on Demand Drums on Demand Vol. 1, Big Fish Audio BiPolar, PowerFX FX In Time Machines and Tools.
departments
Letters Thanks for the heroes, all the keys that fit, and is it noisy in here, or is it just us?
In Review Crystal Method's Big Boom Theory, String Cheese pleeze, George Cables gets heavy with Light, Hot Hot Heat heats up, and more.
411 Joe Firstman on songwriting, a tribute to the late, great Rueben Gonzales, Mike on nuts and bolts, and more.
New Gear Affordable Suzuki digital pianos, Jasmine Onyx Arranger software, discoDSP Phantom, and quoth the Raven: Creepnomore.
Workspace Looking for signature keyboards? Come to Soundtrek Studios.
columns
The Soft Studio by Craig Anderton Don't overlook these MIDI basics.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail Rarely seen, rarely heard, the Vako Orchestron is a collector's prize.
features
New Gear at Winter NAMM 2004 The news from NAMM was all good. In addition to the excitement over the tons of cool new stuff you'll read about in our NAMM report, the music industry seems to be feeling good again - which means even more cool new stuff.
Spotlight: The Crystal Method Francis Preve gets to the heart of TCM's new release, Legions of Boom, and he finds the electronic duo as creative as ever.
Spotlight: Brett Tuggle A road warrior among road warriors, Brett Tuggle takes Stephen Fortner backstage at his current job: touring with Fleetwood Mac.
How to Play: Diminished Dimensions Howard Rees knows how hard it is to get into using diminished harmonies; that's why he's come up with a whole new way to look at them!
keyboard reports
Mellotron Mark VI Tape-playback keyboard.
Apple GarageBand Audio and MIDI production software (Mac).
Antares Filter Effects plug-in (PC, Mac).
Korg D32XD Self-contained recording studio.
BIAS Peak Audio editing software (Mac).
Short Takes Motion Sound KP-100S.
Sounds East West Hardcore Bass XP, Zero-G Planet of the Breaks, Big Fish Freaky Jazzy Funky II.
departments
Letters Praise for the "Unreal Orchestra," Daffy delights, a fave feature returns, MIDI-controlled steel drums in paradise, and things at the front are anything but quiet.
In Review Ivan Neville steps back up, Jan Hammer re-releases, Ginny Owens grooves and delights, a Rush of a DVD, and then some.
411 David Crowder on beats, shocking news, the Organ in Orbit, Oscar Peterson shares some chops, and is it MIDI or is this comic strip funny?
Workspace We've been invading your studios for so long, why not come over to ours?
columns
Dance Mix by Francis Preve Squeezing analog warmth out of digital tracks with Mac Quayle.
Key Basics by Tom Brislin What goes up, must come down, but then it can go back up, or maybe it should keep going down. Arpeggios, in other words.
The Soft Studio by Craig Anderton Forget about tracking make a song every time you boot up your studio. Here's how.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail The Oberheim DS-2, a pre-MIDI sequencer.
features
The Making of Sacred Love Keyboardist and producer Kipper and keyboardist Jason Rebello have their hands full (of keys) as they bring Sting's Sacred Love tour to the world. In this exclusive interview, they reveal the the critical role that soft synths and vintage keyboards play in the realization and success of Sacred Love.
Download it! Play it!: Sonik Synth 2 and hot synth riffs Because we know you love the sound of those classic analog synths, we've teamed with IK Multimedia to give you an advance downloadable version of Sonik Synth 2, and we show you how to get the sound, the notes, and the rhythms of some of the most memorable synth riffs ever. A Keyboard exclusive!
16 Must-Know Albeton Live 3 Hot Tips When Francis Preve has a remix to produce, he needs software that goes the extra mile. In this info-packed hot tips article, Francis goes way beyond the manual to show you how he takes his projects over the top.
keyboard reports
Korg Triton Extreme Synthesizer and sampling workstation.
Elektron Monomachine Synthesizer and step sequencer.
Roland FP-2 Digital piano.
Adobe Audition Audio editing and sequencing software.
Edirol PCR-1 USB audio interface and MIDI controller.
Short Takes VirSyn Tera 2, Speakeasy Preamp.
Sounds PowerFX Extended Waves, Loopmasters Jazz/World, Loopmasters Producer's Essentials.
departments
Letters Notation reaction, a jolt to the senseless, synth secrets from Klaatu, and other pithy insights.
In Review Scissor Sisters cut it up, Kit Watkins is still a happy man, Private Lessons for all, Amin Bhatia returns to the cosmos, SNMNMNM and we don't mean that lightly, and more.
411 Session secrets from Tchad Blake, Clav licks from Ivan Neville, the late Elliot Smith, the unsigned emersonband, a Brazilian phenomenon, Mike takes a month off (don't worry), and other news you can't live without.
New Gear Karma Lab's Karma software now available for Windows, Moog Music Etherwave Pro theremin, Audio Damage Mayhem, Camel Audio Cameleon 5000, Wizoo Hypersonic modules, Steinberg Cubase SE, and then some.
Workspace Groovetree's roots go deep.
columns
The Soft Studio by Craig Anderton Battling latency is the price of obtaining groovcious tunes.
Key Basics by Tom Brislin Arpeggiate or die.
Reel World by Jeff Rona Mixing real instruments into the darkly brooding score to Traffic.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail It may have been the Micromoog, but it did things the Mini couldn't.
features
Frankfurt Musikmesse Just when you thought you had everything on your gear wish list crossed off, another wave of cool new software, synths, and gizmos crosses the pond. Here's Craig Anderton's no-stone-unturned report from Frankfurt.
Spotlight: Rapture How do you get a live vibe with sequencers? The Rapture knows how, and tells all.
How to Play: Brian Auger He's topped the jazz organ category of our Readers Poll, he's inspired leigons of players, and he's still at the top of his game. Brian Auger sits down with Stephen Fortner and shows him the way to Oblivion.
keyboard reports
Roland Fantom X7 Synthesizer and sampling workstation.
MOTU MachFive Software sampler (Mac, PC).
Akai MPC1000 Sampling hardware sequencer.
Steinberg Hypersonic Software synthesizer (Mac, PC).
E-mu Emulator X Studio Software sampler (PC).
Camel Audio Cameleon 5000 Software synthesizer (Mac, PC).
Short Takes Hohner Amica IV accordion.
Sounds Big Fish Click, Apple Jam Pack, Digital Media Dreams SoundXperience.
departments
Letters Tired of technology, searching for Kurzweil sounds, making and marketing a CD, and counting clams and MIDI-controlled steel drums.
In Review Vince Guaraldi's posthumous masterpiece, big band on the ED/GE, synth hero Don Muro rides again, Ollabelle gets to the Gospel, Christ Analogue grinds it out, and more.
411 RJD2 is anything but robotic, Andy Milne advances his Dapp Theory, a reconsideration of Max Webster, in the saddle on Cavalia, and tons more.
Workspace Synths and keyboards abound at Song Haven Studios.
columns
The Soft Studio by Craig Anderton Master your own CD? Master your emotions first.
Composing by Richard Leiter Got a jingle deadline? Play poker instead.
Vintage Gear by Mark Vail The RMI Keyboard Computer: Ahead of its time.
techniques
Recording Violin & Piano
Recording chamber music in Birmingham's Symphony Hall is not something you get to do every day, so we decided to make the most of the occasion by using two completely different setups, one based on professional equipment and one on project-studio gear.
Studio SOS This month, we help television composer Dave Lowe transform a cavernous-sounding spare bedroom into a usable home studio.
Performer Notes This month we explain how to use DP's facilities to mix down Projects into stereo files for CD burning, MP3 conversion or mastering.
features
Drum Triggering On Stage When the epic, studio-created drum sounds of the 80s had to be translated to a stage setting, sample triggering from drum kits came to the fore- and our man Gavin Harrison began his personal quest for the ultimate setup...
Paul Sanders: Getting Your Music On-line In the age of iTunes, if you want to sell your music, you have to be able to get it on-line. But to do this, you need to understand a ton of Internet technology. Does Paul Sanders have the answer?
Classic Tracks: The Sex Pistols' 'Anarchy In The UK' When punk rock broke in 1976, the Sex Pistols caused panic in establishment Britain - and more than a few raised eyebrows in Wessex Studios, where Chris Thomas and Bill Price recorded the band's milestone debut album.
Dweezil Zappa, 64-bit Computing & The Frank Zappa Archive Frank Zappa produced a vast amount of recorded material during his career. The task of editing, mixing and archiving these recordings is being undertaken by his son Dweezil, with the help of some cutting-edge computing hardware.
Jan Hammer As a member of the Mahavishnu Orchestra, a composer for film and TV and a performer in his own right, Jan Hammer helped to define the role of the synth player in rock and jazz.
Logic Notes Here are a few useful workarounds for layering virtual instruments in Logic.
Sonar Notes We bring you yet more Sonar stratagems, including further adventures in envelope copying and some handy track tricks.
Pro Tools Notes We look at the options available to those wanting to continue using Samplecell patches in Pro Tools.
Reason Notes Fancy learning a fun way of producing new material? We explore an advanced technique for creating 'instant tracks'.
Cubase Notes This month we look at how to create your own MIDI Patch Name Scripts in Cubase SX's MIDI Device Manager.
Jim Sutherland: Producing Aberfeldy Recent years have seen a revival in back-to-basics recording techniques, but few engineers or producers have taken things as far as Jim Sutherland did with Edinburgh folk-pop band Aberfeldy...
PC Notes Intel's latest chip sets are finding their way into new PCs - but do they offer any advantages to the computer musician?
Apple Notes New Cinema displays, a new operating system upgrade, and a new iPod revision - all in this month's all-new Apple Notes column.
product tests
Ableton Live 4 Loop-based Sequencer For Mac & PC
Analogue Systems RS300 CV-to-MIDI Converter
Behringer B2030A Truth Active Monitors
Big Fish Audio Tool Shed Percussion Sample Library
Carillon Core 4 Music PC
Cycling '74 Mode Plug-in Suite For Mac OS X
Edirol FA101 Firewire Audio & MIDI Interface For Mac & PC
Edirol PCR1 USB MIDI Controller & Audio Interface
Emu 0404 PC Soundcard
Line 6 Variax Acoustic 700 Modelling Guitar
M Audio Octane Microphone Preamp & A-D Converter
NI Guitar Rig Guitar Amp Modelling Software & Foot Controller
Novation X-Station 25 Controller Keyboard, Audio Interface & Synth
Pearl CC22 Condenser Microphone
Prominy PCP80 Electric Grand Sample Library
Real Traps Mini Trap & Micro Trap Acoustic Panels
Roland Fantom X6, X7 & X8 Synth Workstations
Soundfield SPS422B & SP451 Surround Recording System
TL Audio Ivory 2 5060 Valve Compressor
URS A, N & S Series Classic Console EQ Plug-ins For Pro Tools
USB Charlie Sampled Tonewheel Organ Plug-in For Mac & PC
Voxengo Pristine Space VST Convolution Reverb Plug-in For PC
VSL Solo Strings Sample Library
Westgate Studios Woodwind Collection Expanded Edition Sample Library
techniques
Q&A Your studio problems solved by SOS staff and contributors.
Secrets Of House & Trance Darren Tate is one of Britain's leading house and trance producers with nine top-40 hits under various aliases. He reveals the personal production tricks which make his records stand out.
Troubleshooting Computer Audio Problems We take a look at what causes the unwanted hums, clicks, and whirrs that compromise the performance of your computer studio, and find out how to banish them for good!
Sonar Notes Organise your tracks with Sonar 4's Track Folder feature, and reclaim older plug-ins for use in newer versions of Sonar.
Performer Notes A guide to DP's options for audio pitch and tempo manipulation.
features
The History Of Roland Part 1: 1930-1978 The Roland name is almost synonymous with music technology. As founder Ikutaro Kakehashi approaches his 75th birthday, we begin a journey through the company's extraordinary history...
Core Audio Performance and Mac OS X We investigate the problems associated with achieving the same number of channels of audio I/O in Logic under Mac OS X that were possible under OS 9, and provide some solutions.
Choosing A PC Audio Interface: The SOS Guide There are now so many sizes and types of audio interface available that it can feel well-nigh impossible to find the one that best suits your needs. We sort out the spec features that are really important.
Classic Tracks: Sade's 'The Sweetest Taboo' Sade's ice-cool vocals and sophisticated instrumentation defined a new kind of soul music for the '80s. Engineer and producer Mike Pela uncovers the recording of one of the singer's most memorable hits.
Bill Szymczyk From unlikely beginnings as a naval SONAR operator, Bill Szymczyk became a legendary producer and engineer whose work with the Eagles would define the hi-fi sound of '70s rock.
Mark Nevers: Producing Lambchop Fed up with spoilt divas, engineer Mark Nevers abandoned the country music establishment to start his own studio, and has made a name for himself on the 'other side' of Nashville.
Reason Notes This month we explain how to explore more unusual time signatures,
as well as bringing you essential Reason news and tips.
Cubase Notes We take a closer look at the Embracer, Tonic and Monologue plug-ins that come supplied with Cubase SX v2.2.
Logic Notes This month's column offers some advice on how to put the Marquee tool to work in your projects.
Studio SOS The SOS team help a reader in Nottingham to polish his vocal sounds and improve his mixes.
Einstürzende Neubauten After more than 20 years making uncompromising industrial records, Einstürzende Neubauten escaped a creative and financial crisis through an Internet project which allowed their fans to influence the recording of their latest album.
Apple Notes We take a look at the new G5 iMac and investigate how much power a musician can really expect from the latest Powerbooks.
PC Notes The Windows XP Service Pack 2 is out, but as reports of a few audio problems surface, should musicians go ahead and install it?
Product tests
AAS Tassman v4.0 Physical Modelling Synth For Mac & PC
ADAM ANF10 Passive Monitors
AKG C414B XLS & XLII Capacitor Microphones
Allen & Heath WZ316:2 Analogue Mixer
Preview: Apple Logic Pro 7 MIDI + Audio Sequencer For Mac OS X
Cakewalk Kinetic Software Studio For PC
Elemental Audio Eqium & Firium EQ Plug-ins For Mac & PC
Fishman Aura Acoustic Guitar Preamp
Korg CR4 Cassette Multitracker
PMI The Emperor Sample Library
PMI The Old Lady Sample Library
SE Electronics Icis Valve Microphone
Steinberg Cubase SX 3 MIDI + Audio Sequencer For Windows & Mac OS
TC Electronic TC30 Guitar Amp Modelling Plug-in For TC Powercore
TC-Helicon Intonator HS Pitch-correction Plug-in For TC Powercore
Tekniks Ghetto Grooves 2 Sample Library
Tekniks Xtreme House 2 Sample Library
Voyager By Bob Moog Version 2 OS Updates
Zero-X Beat Quantizer Multitrack Beat Slicer & Quantiser For Windows
JOHN LEGEND This young singer/songwriter rocketed to fame in a few short weeks; you'll find out why in this exclusive interview.
NEW GEAR AT NAMM The Winter NAMM show promises a banner year of very cool new gear; here's a preview, as well as rundown of the fantastic musicians who performed at the Keyboard launch party!
THE MAKING OF THE KORG OASYS What's under the hood of this synth to end all synths? Keyboard takes you on fantastic voyage to the origins of OASYS.
VIENNA TENG A Silicon Valley refugee finds happiness at the piano.
INTRO
JIMMY SMITH 1925-2005
Rumour, Innuendo, and Libel
The Dears
Ask Mike
Hermeto Pascoal
Gadget Bag: Dual-monitor Systems
Go See!
PLAY
BEGINNING John Legend's "Ordinary People"
INTERMEDIATE John Legend's "Ordinary People!"
ADVANCED Minor differences.
FULL SONG "Ordinary People."
CHOP SHOP Jimmy Smith, Herbie Hancock, Bill Evans.
HOW TO
WHAT'S THIS FOR? The record button.
SYNTH WORKSHOP Tips for Korg Triton, Roland Fantom v.2, Yamaha Motif, and Clavia Nord Lead 3.
ON THE GIG Your iPod: a better manager.
COMPOSING Grammy-winning Maria Schnieder.
MUSIC/PICTURE VJ day: Live video for music.
SOFT STUDIO Get your studio in shape.
AUDITION
ROLAND RD-700SX
CME UF8 MIDI CONTROLLER
FUTURERETRO REVOLUTION
MOTU 896HD
SE ELECTRONICS SE-1A MICS
SPEAKEASY DYNO PREAMP
MOOG MURF
OUTRO
VINTAGE SOUNDS Come to the Dark Side.
VINTAGE SYNTHS EMS VCS3 & Synthi A/aks.
30 YEARS AGO TODAY Roger Powell.
MUSE Matt Bellamy's brand of two-fisted keyboard rock is all over the airwaves. Here's a look at his songwriting approach, his gear, and his fiery keyboard pyrotechnics.
MICHEL CAMILO This virtuoso of Latin jazz talks about his latest CD, and what it takes to play solo piano that matters.
INTRO
Rumour, Innuendo, and Libel
Keyboard of the Month
Collide
Laptop Computers
Go See
Missy Higgins
**NEW** The Packrat
Laptop Battles
Session Sensei
PLAY
BEGINNER Arpegggios and "Ruled by Secrecy."
INTERMEDIATE Inner voices in "Ruled by Secrecy,"
ADVANCED Getting started with melodic minor.
FULL SONG Muse's "Ruled by Secrecy."
HOW TO
WHAT'S THIS FOR? Get your Fill.
SYNTH WORKSHOP Tips for Korg Triton, Roland Fantom, and Yamaha Motif.
SOFT STUDIO Bouncing is back.
MUSIC/PICTURE Live video on the road with Berlin.
AUDITION
ROLAND FANTOM-Xa
M-AUDIO OZONIC
EAST WEST COLOSSUS
ABLETON OPERATOR
APPLE GARAGEBAND 2
APPLE JAM PACK 4
ULTIMATE SUPPORT V-STAND
BLUE 8 BALL MIC
SE ELECTRONICS GEMINI MIC
OUTRO
VINTAGE SYNTHS Waveframe Audioframe; what was hi-rez is now low-rez, but still collectable.
30 YEARS AGO TODAY Tony Banks.
DREAM THEATER Let loose in the Octavarium with a surprisingly lean rig, Rudess rules.
HOT HOT HEAT Humble pianos, retro keyboards, and pyromania - Steve Bays reveals all.
THE BAD PLUS Ballet, urtext, and fancy calligraphy. Yeah, there's a link.
INTRO
RUMOUR, INNUENDO, AND LIBEL
SARA FIMM
K-OS
GO SEE
ASK MIKE
PACKRAT
SESSION SENSEI
PLAY
BEGINNING Entry points into Jordan Rudess' rhythm on "Octavarium."
INTERMEDIATE Arpeggio concepts of the "Octavarium" solo.
ADVANCED Get attuned with the mighty flat five.
FULL SONG Wanna play in the Octavarium yourself? What are you waiting for?
HOW TO
WHAT'S THIS FOR? Tones for Joan's bones: getting to know your Tone/Voice/Program buttons.
DANCE MIX Peter Rauhofer's methods, from the man himself.
SYNTH WORKSHOP Giving the Korg Triton and Roland Fantom the finger.
SOFT STUDIO Controller freakshow. Freaky controllers. Just take control, ya freak.
AUDITION
DAVE SMITH POLY EVOLVER KEYBOARD
YAMAHA P250 DIGITAL PIANO
MOOG VOYAGER RACK MOUNT EDITION
CAKEWALK PROJECT5 V.2
EAST WEST/ QUANTUM LEAP RA
TASCAM CD-VTIMKII
SUPERSCOPE PSD300 CD RECORDER
DISCRETE DRUMS EARTHBEAT DRUM LOOPS
OUTRO
VINTAGE SOUNDS Get organ-ized. Or come up with a pun lamer than that.
30 YEARS AGO TODAY Keyboards in Japan, Don Henley's keyboardists, and our own John Krogh defies the Eagles' gag order.
THE KILLERS Do synths and stardom mix? In Brandon Flowers, they sure do.
PRINTZ BOARD Behind the hip-hop glam of the Black Eyed Peas lurks one hell of an old-school talent.
DEREK SHERINIAN Why does this fleet-fingered fanatic of finesse wind up in the spotlight as much as a lead guitarist? Find out here.
INTRO
Rumour, Innuendo & Libel
LCD Soundsystem
Gadget Bag
Go See!
Ask Mike
Packrat
From the Forums
ALO
Sara Bareilles
Session Sensei
PLAY
BEGINNING Learn to montuno with Eddie Palmieri.
INTERMEDIATE Latin jazz soloing with Eddie Palmieri.
ADVANCED Going outside with Eddie Palmieri.
HOT SOLO Eddie Palmieri's solo on "Tin Tin Deo."
CLASS Moe Denham's B-3 secrets.
HOW TO
SYNTH WORKSHOP Roland Fantom.
REEL WORLD Jeff Rona returns.
WHAT'S THIS FOR? Open your ears with studio monitors.
SOFT STUDIO Studio tricks for the stymied.
DANCE MIX Secrets of Superchumbo.
AUDITION
KORG OASYS
CREAMWARE MINIMAX ASB
PROPELLERHEAD REASON 3.0
M-AUDIO KEY RIG
ADAM ARTIST MONITORS
EDIROL R-1
BIG FISH FUNK CITY
DRUMS ON DEMAND BASS ON DEMAND
OUTRO
VINTAGE SOUNDS They shoot lasers, don't they?
VINTAGE SYNTHS The amazing Chroma.
WORKSPACE
BT Wondering where the future of electronic music lies? BT's already there.
HOLIDAY GEAR GIFT GUIDE What every keyboardist wants, whether they know it yet or not.
ATHLETE Vintage keys are mood-enhancing medicine for these rising stars.
BURNING MAN A crucible of electronic experimentation boils over at Burning Man.
INTRO
Rumour, Innuendo, and Libel
Paul Mirkovich
From the Forums
Ask Mike
Gadget Bag
Go See
Packrat
PLAY
BEGINNING Getting started with jazz chords.
INTERMEDIATE Blending chords and melody.
ADVANCED Timeless tips from Bill Evans.
FULL SONG "My Romance" played by Bill Evans.
HOW TO
WHAT'S THIS FOR? Mixers: Are they really blenders?
DANCE MIX Robbie Rivera makes hit remixes with a minimal setup.
SYNTH WORKSHOP Kurzweil K2600 and Alesis Micron.
ON THE GIG Get more performance power using MIDI Macros with Ableton Live 5.
SOFT STUDIO How to use convolution reverb.
AUDITION
CAKEWALK SONAR 5
NATIVE INSTRUMENTS AKOUSTIK PIANO
ROB PAPEN BLUE
WILLIAMS V-1 KEYBOARD GUITAR
CHOCOPOOLP BHAJIS LOOPS
M-AUDIO STUDIOPHILE BX5A
PALM TREO 650
DISCOVERY FIRM THIS IS VIETNAM
SONY THE ELECTRO SET
SUBMERSIBLE MATTPACK 1
OUTRO
VINTAGE SYNTHS Finally, a synth that really is one-of-a-kind.
VINTAGE SOUNDS You're not on auto when you play an ostinato.
30 YEARS AGO TODAY George Duke, as busy as ever.
300 YEARS AGO TODAY Bach's secret message and Richard Egarr's decoding.
HIROMI Fiery and fearless, this young chop-monster blends acoustic piano with synths to create a hot new sound.
THE CLICK FIVE Sitting comfortably at the top of the charts, keyboardist Ben Romans has found huge suc- cess by putting education and chops in service of good songwriting.
MASH-UPS Mash-ups are the hottest thing going, on the dancefloor, in podcasts, and on radio. In this exclusive roundtable discussion, the field's top artists give up the secrets of how they do what they do, from the gear and software to the clandestine sources of mainstream tracks.
INTRO
Rumour, Innuendo, and Libel
The Volts Per Octave
From the Forums
Gadget Bag
Session Sensei
Ask Mike
Departures: Shirley Horn Skitch Henderson Ned Torney
PLAY
BEGINNER Hiromi's chops may seem beyond yours, but you can start working on one of her signature tricks right now.
INTERMEDIATE Take a tip from your percussionist, via Hiromi.
ADVANCED Note selection is key when Hiromi paints a harmonic picture.
FULL SONG "Return of Kung-Fu World Champion," by Hiromi.
HOW TO
WHAT'S THIS FOR? Speak directly into the microphone, please.
SYNTH WORKSHOP Roland V-Synth XT.
COMPOSING Hiromi's thematic development gives her songs depth.
SOFT STUDIO Breaking up is... interesting to do, with multiband signal processing.
AUDITION
ACCESS VIRUS TI
YAMAHA P-140
ALESIS FUSION
GFORCE MINIMONSTA
MANIKIN ELECTRONIC SCHRITTMACHER
PRESONUS BLUETUBE DP
OUTRO
VINTAGE SOUNDS The Linn LM-1 still parties like it's 1999.
VINTAGE SYNTHS Don't have an LM-1? Here's how to get the Linndrum sound with samples.
30 YEARS AGO TODAY Joe Sample, both vintage and contemporary.
SOULIVE Jazz, crunch, and soulful groove: Neal Evans lays it all down.
EISLEY Luscious pop music, just like Mom used to make it.
INTRO
Rumour, Innuendo, and Libel
Porcupine Tree
Sara Bareilles
Zenph Studios
Ask Mike
Session Sensei
PLAY
BEGINNER Bring the funk with a centuries-old classical technique.
INTERMEDIATE Bassist? Pshaw. Your left hand can make that deep action happen.
ADVANCED Get Darwinian with your groove and evolve it, baby.
FULL SONG Neal Evans' bass and Clavinet parts on "Break Out."
HOW TO
WHAT'S THIS FOR? The life and times of the software plug-in.
SOFT STUDIO Have you outgrown your audio interface?
TRACK Studio wisdom inspired by Soulive.
SYNTH WORKSHOP Kludging patch remain on the Yamaha Motif.
AUDITION
KORG TR-61
KAWAI MP4
IK MULTIMEDIA PHILHARMONIK MIROSLAV
EAST WEST/ QUANTUM LEAP SYMPHONIC CHOIRS
M-AUDIO PROJECTMIX I/O
M-AUDIO MICROTRACK
BIG FISH BIG BEAT 2
ANTARES AVOX
JAZZMUTANT LEMUR
GADGET BAG
OUTRO
VINTAGE SOUNDS Clap on. Clap off.
300 YEARS AGO Evgeny Kissin communes with a Russian master.
