Mastering with Software
Mastering is crucial to getting a professional sound for your tracks, and with ever more software solutions on the market, you can now do it yourself. Hollin Jones explains.

Pro Tools - Using Rewire
Pro Tools is well equipped for creative sound design, but you can massively extend the options open to you by utilising ReWire. Mike Hillier patches in.

Logic Pro 9 - Amp Designer & Pedalboard
Creating a custom guitar sound has never been easier thanks to Logic Pro 9’s Pedalboard and Amp Designer. Mark Cousins takes it up to 11...

SynthEdit 1.1 - Building VST's
Tweaking synth presets is one way of finding a unique sound, but building your own plug-ins is another. Indie developer Daz Disley (whiteLABEL) shows you how.

Mixing in Depth
Pushing faders and tweaking EQ are not the only ways to achieve a great sound when mixing. Hollin Jones explains why depth and width are important considerations as well.

Mac OSX 10.6 & Windows 7
The latest major updates to Apple and Microsoft’s operating systems are upon us, but what do they mean for musicians? Hollin Jones has the low-down.

Back to School
If a career in the music industry is your ambition, enrolling on a college course can only help your chances of succeeding. Dave Gibson explores the choices you’ll need to make.

Making Dubstep
Dubstep is one of the most exciting new movements of recent years, attracting growing numbers of fans. Hollin Jones examines how it’s made.

Programming Beats
Not everyone has access to a great drummer, but we all need great drums. Hollin Jones presents a beginner’s guide to banging beats.

Cubase 5 Workshop - Humanise your beats
Beat Designer is the ultimate beat programmer for Cubase – and it’s easier to use, more versatile and more powerful than you might think. Hollin Jones keeps it real.

Logic Pro 8 Workshop - Using Channel EQ
Logic’s Channel EQ plug-in is a supremely versatile equaliser that has a number of unique tricks up its sleeve. Mark Cousins turns up the bass.

Reason 4 Workshop - Live Performance (part 2)
In the second part of our live performance tutorial, Hollin Jones shows you how to configure Reason so that several musicians can use it at once.

Ableton Live 8 Workshop - Clip Envelopes
Envelopes are a powerful tool that can be used to add movement and interest to your clips quickly and easily. Hollin Jones seals it up.

Studio answers 78
Get in touch with MTM’s experts to have your technical woes sorted – and bag yourself a free samples pack if we publish your question.

Synthesis Masterclass
Creating your own sounds from scratch is one of the best ways to master the complex and occasionally daunting art of synthesis. Mark Cousins throws away the presets.

Record Preview
The long wait is nearly over – Propellerhead is putting the finishing touches to its new audio-recording software. Hollin Jones takes a sneak peek at Record.

Mobile Recording
Does the future of recording and production really now lie in the palm of your hand? Mark Cousins explores the possibilities...

Pro Tools 8 Workshop - Multitrack drum mixing
Speed up the process of getting drums sounding the way you want them with some adept use of aux channels, EQ and compression. Hollin Jones shows you how.

Logic Pro 8 Workshop - Creating IR files
Following last month’s detailed exploration of reverb, we take a closer look at impulse response sampling. Mark Cousins takes in the ambience.

Sonar 8 Workshop - Making ambient tracks
Sonar is as versatile as you are. To prove it, Brian Smithers ventures into the wilds of nature to create an ambient track based on natural sounds.

10MM 158 - Pitch manipulation
Sloppy, out-of-tune performances are a thing of the past: modern pitch-shifting technology can put them right in the studio. Mark Cousins gets manipulative.

10MM 157 - The theory & application of ring modulation
Ring modulation is one of the most aggressive and distinctive sounding treatments on offer. Grant Bridgeman explains why.

DAW Masterclass
Getting to know your DAW better will not only help you make music more effectively, it can also spark your creativity. Mark Cousins and Hollin Jones show you around.

Cubase 4.5 Workshop - Working with loops (part 2)
Your loops are the right pitch and length, but how should you manage their groove, swing and feel? Hollin Jones shows you how to take control.

Logic Pro 8 Workshop - Using Reverb
Logic’s reverb plug-ins are essential tools for three-dimensional mixing and can generate a number of interesting spatial effects. Mark Cousins finds his space.

10MM 155 - Condenser Mics
Condenser microphones are a popular choice within the studio, but what difference does the capsule design make? Grant Bridgeman goes beneath the grille.

10MM 154 - Monitor Design
Monitors are a crucial component in every studio, from project setups to pro facilities, but what distinguishes one pair from another? Mark Cousins speaks out.

10MM 153 - Instrument Radiation
Microphone positioning is not just about the characteristics of the microphone and room, but the instrument as well. Grant Bridgeman listens to how things sound.

Studio Answers 75
Get in touch with MTM’s experts to have your technical woes sorted – and bag yourself a free samples pack with every question published.

Reason 4 Workshop - Programming Thor
You can never have enough great synth sounds – and Reason’s Thor module means you’ll never run out of ideas. Hollin Jones steals the thunder...

Cubase 4.5 Workshop - working with loops part 1
Loops are an essential part of making music in many genres – and Cubase has some great tools to ensure you a smooth ride. Hollin Jones does the rounds.

Omnisphere Workshop
Unlocking the power of Omnisphere’s STEAM engine reveals its true creative potential as a contemporary software synth. Mark Cousins enters a new ’Sphere.

Logic Pro 8 Workshop - Quantizing
Logic includes a number of powerful features that can improve the timing of both your MIDI and audio regions. Mark Cousins gets in time.

Extreme Sounds
Some of the most interesting and unusual sounds in recording are produced when equipment is pushed to extremes. Mark Cousins takes it to the limit.

Studio Solutions
The modern studio is a complicated environment, but dealing with day-to-day problems need not be a nightmare. Hollin Jones takes the trauma out of troubleshooting.

10MM151_oversampling
With sample rate formats steadily on the increase, what is the benefit of further oversampling our audio? Grant Bridgeman looks at the multiples.

Top 50 Recording Tips
Before you can mix or master a piece of music, you first need to capture the raw performance in your DAW. Mark Cousins reveals some essential recording tips.

Cubase 5 User Guide
The latest version of Steinberg’s ever-popular DAW brings improvements to beatmaking, workflow, scoring and more. Hollin Jones dives into Cubase 5’s new features.

Logic Pro 8 Workshop - Creative Gate Effects
Logic’s humble Noise Gate is a source of a number of unique and unusual dynamic processing techniques. Mark Cousins joins the sidechain gang.

Native Instruments Workshop - Using B4II
A great Hammond sound can bring a touch of vintage warmth to any track, and Native Instruments’ B4 II is perfect for the job. Hollin Jones goes back in time.

Stereo Enhancement
Making your music sound larger than life can be achieved in a number of ways, using everyday tools as well as more specialised ones. Mo Volans aims wide.

Fix Your Mix
What are the options open to you if you need to tighten up a sloppy performance or correct a few bum notes? Mark Cousins explores the art of corrective audio surgery.

Logic Pro 8 Workshop - EXS24 Parameters
If you know your way around the EXS24’s Parameters window you can transform Logic’s sampler instruments in extreme ways. Mark Cousins pushes the envelope.

Mixdown Masterclass
With parts played, performances recorded and the arrangement nailed, it’s time to think about mixing down. Mo Volans guides you through what can be a challenging stage of production, revealing techniques that yield quality results.

Mastering Bass
Effective editing and management of the low end of a mix are among the most important techniques for bringing power and impact to your music. Mark Cousins delves deep.

Choosing a Computer
Before splashing out on a new computer, be clear about what you need it to do and whether what’s inside it is up to that task. Hollin Jones goes inside the box.

Music to Picture
Writing music to picture presents a number of creative and technical challenges, but in today’s studio these aren’t insurmountable. Mark Cousins shows you how.

Sonar 7 Workshop - Mastering
Mastering gives your tracks that final punch and polish – and Sonar is more than up to the challenges of the task. Brian Smithers helps you master the process.

Studio Answers 71
Get in touch with MTM’s experts to have your technical woes sorted – and bag yourself a free samples pack with every question published.

10MM146 - Room Correction
Why struggle with egg boxes and bass traps when there’s another way to address acoustic issues? Mark Cousins stands corrected.

Recording Vocals
Although it’s a crucial part of recording music, many otherwise successful productions suffer from badly tracked vocals. Hollin Jones explains how a few simple techniques can improve the quality of your tracks.

Live Recording
With live music growing in popularity, more and more bands and artists need their shows recorded. From basic to top-end techniques, Hollin Jones shows you how it’s done.

Cubase 4.1 Workshop - Fades and Crossfades
If you’re experiencing clicks or glitches in your tracks, Cubase’s flexible fade functionality may hold the solution. Hollin Jones takes control.

Live 7 Workshop - Doing More With Less
If your Live sets are becoming monotonous but you don’t want to use multiple effects, there are several avenues you should explore. Jon Margulies leads the way.

Logic Pro 8 Workshop - Surround Mixing
Transforming a stereo mix to a full 360-degree surround mix is both an intuitive and creative experience in Logic Pro 8. Mark Cousins is surrounded by sound.

10MM142 Waveshapes
Sawtooth, square and triangle waveshapes are fundamental to contemporary music production, but what exactly are they? Mark Cousins makes waves.

10MM141 Emulation
Digital processing has brought back the old as well as the new. Grant Bridgeman finds out more.

The Art of Compression
Getting the best from compression involves a unique approach at each point in the production process. Mark Cousins gains the advantage...

Making Your Music Pay
Why should your music-making be a mere hobby when it could actually be a serious means of making a comfortable living? Mark Cousins turns his notes into cash...

Going Beyond The Limit
Traditionally it is considered good practice to preserve dynamics in a mix, but some modern genres of music demand super-high volumes and red-hot limiting. Mo Volans turns up the heat for those who like it loud...

The Art of Creative Delay
Delay effects are something that most of us take for granted, but with a little imagination and the right plug-ins you can breathe new life into this often underestimated effect. Mo Volans shows you how.

Mixing with Logic Pro 8
The second instalment of our foray into Logic Pro explores more key mixing tasks and tools, including automation, cleaning up vocals and what you can do with MIDI.

Monitoring Secrets
If your monitors are the weakest link in your studio, you’re undoubtedly putting the quality of your mixes in jeopardy. Mark Cousins offers some essential advice.

Sound Improvements
Kitting out your studio with the most expensive gear you can afford may be in vain if the room’s acoustics haven’t been properly addressed. Merrick Angle goes in for treatment.

10MM138 Audio File Formats
If you’ve surveyed the growing crowd of file formats with a touch of apprehension and confusion, you’re almost certainly not alone. Mark Cousins gets packing.

Get the Knowledge
Studying music technology is an excellent springboard to a career in music, but how do you decide between the various courses on offer? Mark Cousins goes back to school.

Pro Tools 7 Workshop - Transfuser Primer
With capabilities far beyond run-of-the-mill beat-making, Transfuser could be just what you need to bring an edge to your tracks. Mike Hillier is your tour guide.

10MM137 In-ear Monitoring
Onstage monitors are now frequently being replaced by in-ear systems – even for small pub gigs. Grant Bridgeman explains why.

Sampling Masterclass
Whether you make your own samples or use commercial sample sets, sampling is a crucial part of modern music production.

Studio Answers 66

Ten Minute Master 136 - Headphone Monitoring
Creating an effective headphone mix can make a big difference to the quality of the performances you manage to capture. Mark Cousins takes his cue.

Mixing With Logic Pro 8
These days, many engineers mix ‘In the box’ – that is, without an external mixing console or external effects. In the first of a three-part series, we look at how it’s done in Logic.

Sonar 7 Workshop - MIDI Production
Sonar’s MIDI tools include a flexible step sequencer, customisable edit tools, pitch-to-MIDI conversion and more. Brian Smithers puts it all together.

Ten Minute Master 135 - Digital Mics
If sound is analogue, how can the first link in a signal path be digital? Grant Bridgeman investigates the world of the digital microphone.

Recording Electric Guitar
Recording electric guitar is a challenge faced by many engineers and producers, but it’s easier than you think. Hollin Jones shows you how.

10MM134 Wavetable Synthesis
Wavetable synthesis has proved a popular alternative to conventional subtractive techniques. Mark Cousins goes in deep...

One-take Recording
Could your multitrack recordings be lacking the raw power and feel of a well-rehearsed live band in full swing? Merrick Angle leaves the studio...

10MM132 Spatial Awareness
Sound surrounds us constantly – and our ears tell us more than we realise... Grant Bridgeman gains a sense of space.

Optimise Windows for Pro Audio
If your audio PC hasn’t been set up by specialists, there are some simple steps you can take to streamline it yourself. Hollin Jones goes under the hood.

Sonar 7 Workshop Mixing Tricks
One of the most exciting new features in the latest version of Sonar is the ability to sidechain effects to achieve a variety of sonic ends. Brian Smithers is your guide.

10MM131 De-essing
De-essing is a quick-and-easy solution to sibilance control, but how does the technology behind this mix-saving process work? Mark Cousins minds his esses.

Ultimate Plug-ins
Plug-ins are offering an increasing number of audio processing options, but what are the essential tools and techniques for best utilising them? Mark Cousins plugs in.

Pro Tools 7 Workshop - Organising Sessions
Any feature or function that makes the processes of recording and mixing less time-consuming demands closer attention... Mike Hillier speeds up his sessions.

10MM133 Linear-phase EQ
EQ is arguably the most often-used tool in the studio – but what does linear-phase EQ offer? Grant Bridgeman tweaks the levels.

Be A Remix Master
Remixing other people’s tracks can be challenging and rewarding as well as tremendous fun. Hollin Jones shows you how it’s done.

Recording Real Drums
Recording and mixing the sound of a complete acoustic kit can be one of the toughest challenges an engineer faces. Mark Cousins explores the most effective solutions.

Making Acid Dub Tracks
Acid dub may not enjoy the exposure afforded by commercial radio, but it’s a growing underground genre that’s ideally suited to small-studio production. Hollin Jones explains.

Cubase 4 Workshop - Built-in Instruments
You may have overlooked them, but the latest version of Cubase ships with some seriously useful sound-generating machines. Hollin Jones dives in...

10MM128 Loudness demystified
Commercial recordings have undoubtedly got ‘hotter’ in recent years, but why does one recording sound louder than another? Mark Cousins seeks an explanation...

Sound Design For Film
Designing sound for film can take you down some sonic paths you might have thought were best left unexplored. Simon Gershon takes you on a tour of his larder.

10MM127 DI Boxes
A DI box can be your saviour during a problematic gig or recording session. Grant Bridgeman sizes them up...

Synthesis Essentials
Fully understanding the signal path and features of your synthesizer will unlock a plethora of new, unexplored sounds. Mark Cousins throws away the presets...

Cubase 4.1 Workshop: Using the Sample Editor
Redesigned for more logical, efficient workflow, the Sample editor is a vital aspect of editing audio in Cubase 4.1. Hollin Jones finds out what it has to offer...

10MM 122 Preamps
Used on a daily basis in studios around the world, the mic preamp is a vital link in the recording chain. Mark Cousins amps it up.

Guitar Thief!
The guitar has dominated many musical genres for years, from jazz and acoustic to full-on heavy metal and rock. Merrick Angle considers how to duplicate the core guitar sounds in the studio with a combination of hardware and plug-ins.

10MM 121 The Mellotron
The future of sampling may be digital, but with the revival of the Mellotron, tape sampling is back. Grant Bridgeman revisits an iconic instrument.

Choosing a Music Tech Course
Whatever aspect of technical music-making demands your attention, there is a college course out there for you. Steven Gurevitz goes back to school to assess the options...

Mastering Solutions
Why settle for simple plug-in presets when you can take real control over the process of mastering? Mark Cousins reveals some tricks of the trade...

10MM120 Wah-wah
Loved by generations of guitarists, the wah-wah pedal has a voice all of its own. Mark Cousins is speechless...

Recording a Singer/Songwriter
There’s more to recording a singer/songwriter than standard studio setups and production-line techniques. Merrick Angle discusses how to get the most out of the process, from appreciating musical influences to correct tuning and creative mic’ing.

Pro Tools 7 Workshop: Using Structure Free
The Free version of Digidesign’s Structure plug-in brings powerful sampling capabilities to all Pro Tools users. Mike Hillier is your guide...

10MM119: Boundary Layer Microphones
Also known as PZM microphones, boundary mics offer a number of benefits over more conventional designs in some recording scenarios. Grant Bridgeman remains unphased...

Special Effects
Exploring treatments such as ring modulation and vocoding could transform your mix in ways you never thought possible. Mark Cousins shows you how...

Remixer's Guide to Vocal Production
While editing a full vocal for remixing can appear daunting, Mo Volans explains how being armed with the right techniques can help make your productions really shine.

10MM 118 Mixer Routing
Mixers come in all shapes and sizes, but their common task is to route audio. Mark Cousins finds his destination...

Revitalise Your Samples
If you’re tired of your samples and yearning for something fresh, help may be closer to hand than you think. Hollin Jones breathes new life into your samples collection...

Logic Pro 8 Workshop Delay Designer
Delay Designer is just one of several new plug-ins to be explored in Logic Studio. Mark Cousins shows you how to master its unique delay-based effects.

Remixer's Guide to Drum Production
There are a number of drum-production techniques that can help bring your dance beats up to speed. Mo Volans explains...

Reason 4 Workshop Automation
Automation is a great way to add depth and life to your tracks – and Reason 4 approaches it a whole new way. Hollin Jones explains all...

10MM 117 Surround Sound Microphones
Surround recording is becoming increasingly popular, but what are the essential techniques behind it? Grant Bridgeman reveals all... enveloped...

Laptop Producer
The laptop computer has finally evolved into a serious alternative to desktop-based audio production systems. Mark Cousins explains how a new breed of musicians are using their laptops...

Essential Virtual Instruments
Virtual Instruments have dramatically changed the way we make music, but what are the essential plug-ins we should all have and how do you go about getting the best from them? Mark Cousins explores virtual reality...

10MM116 Limiting
In the ongoing quest for ever-increasing loudness, is a limiter always the simplest and most effective solution? Mark Cousins takes it to the limit...

Live 6 Workshop Performance Routing Tricks
Live offers a number of ways of routing audio and effects, many of which can have an immediate and fundamental impact on your music. Jon Margulies explains all...

10MM 115 Mic Positioning
How a mic is placed can make a great difference to the sounds it captures. Grant Bridgeman takes a stand...

Cubase 4 Workshop Tempo Matching
If you’ve ever had to integrate samples or loops into your projects, you’ll know that tempo matching is one of Cubase’s great strengths. Hollin Jones keeps time...

Reason 4 User Guide
Reason 4 is now with us – and it’s got some major new tricks up its sleeve. Hollin Jones is your tour guide...

Remixer's Guide to Soundscapes
Even the best electronic productions can fall flat if they lack atmosphere, but there are ways of bringing a lacklustre mix to life. Mo Volans explains...

10MM113 Modulation with Envelopes
Envelopes are a common function in synthesis, yet we often don’t utilise their capabilities to the full. Grant Bridgeman delves into the most dynamic of modulators.

Cubase 4 Workshop Better Podcasting
The podcasting revolution has made it easy to broadcast your own shows and music to the world. Hollin Jones shows you how to do it in Cubase...

Arranging with Brass Samples
Using brass samples in your music can create expression and power that goes way beyond what can be achieved with strings or woodwind instruments alone. Mark Cousins polishes his brass...

Sonar 6 Workshop Working with Video Pt1
Version 6 of Cakewalk’s Sonar has dedicated tools that make working with video easier and more intuitive than ever. Brian Smithers has the big picture...

10MM114 Audio Interfacing
Getting audio in and out of a computer can be achieved in a multitude of ways. Mark Cousins examines your options...

Moving Your Soft Studio
With all the different license-management technologies used by pro audio developers, upgrading, repairing or replacing computers can be a veritable minefield. Hollin Jones brings you the low-down on the state of play...

Remixer's Guide to Electro Bass
Good bass technique has always been important in dance music, but with the rebirth of electro, extra voltage is essential. Mo Volans digs deep...

Reason 3.0 Workshop Digital Delay
Digital delay is a versatile effect that can be used to achieve anything from subtle mix blending to outrageous dub effects. Hollin Jones shows you how...

Recording Acoustic Music
As the folk act Show Of Hands proves, not having access to the latest gear isn’t an obstacle to success. Mark Brend talks to SOH’s Phil Beer.

Moving Sessions Between DAWs
Using just one platform or sequencer can restrict your creative possibilities. Hollin Jones shows you how to jump between apps.

10MM112 Chorus, Flange & Phase
When it comes to thickening up sounds or finding ear-pleasing effects, few can resist the temptations of chorus, flanging and phasing. Mark Cousins takes the treatment...

10MM111_Audio_Connectors
Unless you work purely in the software domain, your various bits of audio gear will somehow need linking together. Grant Bridgeman plugs in...

Sony Acid Pro Workshop Mixing In 6D
Creating a sense of depth and width in a stereo mix is easily achieved if you can adapt to a new way of thinking. Robert Correll takes six...

Sampling Success
Today's software samplers are capable of far more than many recording musicians realise. Mark Cousins gets creative...

10MM109
Harmonics, overtones and pitch are fundamental terms in synthesis, but what exactly do they mean? Grant Bridgeman explores a partially daunting subject...

Mixing It With Analogue Summing
Moving out of the digital domain when it comes to the final mix is an increasingly common practice. Mark Cousins investigates why...

10MM108 The Channel Strip
All mixers feature a channel strip, but how do their various controls integrate into the recording and mixing processes? Mark Cousins channels his energies...

Pioneering Instruments
The electronic instruments we are so familiar with today evolved from the ideas of a few visionary pioneers. Mark Brend goes back in time...

Trip Hop Keyboards
Creating authentic trip hop productions almost always entails the use of a vintage keyboard or two. Hollin Jones details your options...

Pro Tools 7 Workshop Using Automation
In addition to making a mix easier to manage, automation can be used to create some interesting effects. Mike Hillier rides the faders...

Secrets of Compression
The compressor has become a studio stalwart, but all too often its true capabilities are overlooked. Mark Cousins is on the level...

Preamp Technology
There’s a great deal of myth and mystery surrounding microphone preamps, as well as the ongoing debate about valves versus transistors. Huw Price gets technical...

Dub Essentials
Nothing says summer like heavy, laid-back dub sounds. Hollin Jones explains the essentials of building and producing dub, and shows you some tricks of the trade...

Cable Maintenance
Cable failure and poor connections can make life in the studio very frustrating, but maintaining and repairing them is relatively easy. Grant Bridgeman gets out his iron...

Backtrack
Spoon - Everything Hits At Once

10MM106 EQ Curves
If you know how to interpret the curve of an equalizer, you’ll have a better grasp of its musicality and usefulness in music production. Mark Cousins gets equal…

Logic Pro 7 Workshop Using the EVD6
Logic Pro’s EVD6 faithfully re-creates the sound of the Hohner Clavinet, but how do you go about producing a suitably vintage performance? Mark Cousins shows you how to get funky...

Media Music
Composing music-to-picture is an increasingly popular way to earn a living and it’s open to all producers, even those on a budget. Hollin Jones show you how it’s done.

Sonar 6 Workshop MIDI Production
Sonar 6 boasts more powerful MIDI functionality than any previous incarnation. Brian Smithers shows you how to maximise its talents.

10MM105 Noise Reduction Systems
Cleaning up a noisy recording is now a task that can be easily accomplished with the right software and a good ear. Grant Bridgeman investigates the art of digital noise reduction...

Plug-in Power
Plug-ins are vital tools for recording and mixing, but are you making the most of the ones you have? Mark Cousins gets effected...

Reason 3.0 Workshop Advanced Dr.Rex
REX loops are a great tool for producing music in Reason, but there’s more to the Dr.Rex player than meets the eye. Hollin Jones explains all...

FL Studio 7 Workshop
Matching your loops to tracks with different tempos needn’t be a time-consuming task. Hollin Jones shows you how it’s done with the Fruity Slicer.

10MM103 Studio Cables
Every signal path is only as good as its weakest link – and in this respect, cabling is often the most regular offender. Grant Bridgeman finds the path of least resistance...

Stereo Mic'ing Techniques
Achieving a perfect stereo recording each and every time takes more than a couple of mics and some educated guesswork... George Shilling reveals the secrets of the pros.

Cubase 4 Workshop Mastering Foley
Music to picture isn’t the only trick that Cubase 4 can do with video, as Hollin Jones finds out when he explores recording foley...

Mixing & Equalisation
Good equalisation can transform your mixes, creating improved separation and a more effective overall sound. Mark Cousins tunes in to the right frequency...

10MM104 The History of Sampling
From vintage Mellotrons to the explosion of digital recording technology, the sampler has had a profound impact on music production. Mark Cousins gets a slice of the action...

Live 6 Workshop Using Racks
More than just glorified instrument and effects groups, racks enable you to combine and create new sounds. Jon Margulies explains.

Drum'n'Bass Beats & Bass Lines
Banging beats and bass lines are fundamental to any drum‘n’bass production. Hollin Jones explains how you too can get in on the act...

Cubase 4 Workshop: Using Free VST Synths
You don’t need to spend a fortune to use lots of synths in Cubase – in fact, it doesn’t have to cost you a penny... Hollin Jones shows you how to make music on a budget.

Back Track
JoE Silva gets the lowdown on 11 hectic hours at Ocean Way Studios’ Nashville branch.

Logic Pro 7 Workshop EXS24 Data Management
Effectively managing your EXS24 files will not only improve your system’s efficiency, but also your creativity. Mark Cousins delves into his hard drive...

Creative Synthesis
Creating original sounds that are exclusive to you means going beyond your synth’s bank of presets. Mark Cousins shows you how to achieve sonic individuality.

10MM101 Audio Editing
Unless you’re a one-take wonder, audio editing will be an inevitable part of your recording process. Mark Cousins gets his scissors out...

Build A Bass Trap For Less Than £50
If you’re encountering problems with the bass end of your mixes, you might need to sort out your studio’s acoustics. Petra Jones takes the DIY approach.

Reason 3.0 Workshop Better Bass Lines
You don’t need to be a virtuoso player to program great bass lines in Reason. With a little help from the Matrix, Hollin Jones shows you how...

10MM102 1-Bit Recording
Bit depths have been steadily increasing for the past 10 years or more, but now 1-bit recording has reared its head. Grant Bridgeman explores the benefits of progress...

Q&A

Backtrack
JoE Silva finds out how rock’s biggest duo crafted the sound for their fifth studio LP.

10MM100 Electric Pianos
From the silky Fender Rhodes to the rock‘n’roll Wurlitzer, the electric piano has become a cornerstone of contemporary music. Mark Cousins tickles the ivories...

Monitoring Psychology
There are many reasons why a mix might not transport well to other systems – and it’s down to a lot more than just the monitors...

Programming Hip Hop Beats
Creating your own beats rather than resorting to samples or presets is both rewarding and legal. Hollin Jones shows you how.

Location Recording
Using alternative venues offers an exciting new way of tackling the process of recording. Mark Cousins goes mobile, and explains how to get the best results...

Arranging With Sampled Strings
String samples have improved significantly, but piecing them together remains something of an art. Mark Cousins explains.

10MM98 Distributed Audio Processing
A problem shared is a problem halved, but is distributed audio processing an essential requirement of today’s studio setup? Mark Cousins finds out...

10MM97 Portable Recorders
Laptops may well be portable, but an all-in-one hardware recorder can offer a much more compact alternative. Grant Bridgeman downsizes...

Cubase 4 Workshop Mastering MediaBay Part 2
If you’re tired of searching through vast samples collections, help is at hand in the form of Cubase 4’s MediaBay. Hollin Jones gets his samples sorted...

21st Century Beats
Creating rhythm tracks has never been simpler, but it’s easy to lose any sense of originality unless you have a few tricks up your sleeve. Mark Cousins explains.

The Evolving Art of the DJ
The traditional DJ setup of two turntables and a mixer is increasingly being replaced by CD decks and software sequencers. JoE Silva charts the changes...

Vista For Musicians
With the release of Microsoft’s new operating system comes a raft of issues pertinent to the recording musician. Hollin Jones lifts the lid on the new OS.

The Cure Last Dance
JoE Silva sounds out keyboard veteran Roger O’Donnell.

10MM96 MP3 Compression
Downloadable mp3s are the immediate future for the music industry, but how does its lossy compression affect what we hear? Grant Bridgeman listens carefully.

Online Music Production Services
If you find yourself facing a task you’re unable to tackle in your studio, turn to the internet for help. Mike Hillier goes in search of specialist services on the web.

Ableton Live 6 Workshop Using Scenes
Breathe new life into your performances by mixing and matching elements from your existing sets. Ken Hikaru sets the Scene...

Recording A Live Album
Successfully capturing the raw power of a live gig is no mean feat, but a little know-how will help you get the best results. Huw Price explains how it’s done.

10MM95 Data Management
As our hard drives continue to swell, data management will become even more important to our working practices. Mark Cousins takes control of his megabytes...

Cubase 4 Workshop MediaBay Part 1
Managing ever-growing collections of samples and presets can be a real headache, but Cubase 4’s MediaBay takes much of the pain out of the process. Hollin Jones has the lowdown...

Mastering: The Quest For Loudness
In an effort to make your music louder, what are the realistic ways of making your masters stand out from the crowd? Mark Cousins explains the art of loudness...

Metadata
You might be unfamiliar with the concept of metadata, but every digital audio file you create or play has the capacity to hold and utilise it. Grant Bridgeman passes on the information...

Neko Case Hold On Hold On
JoE Silva explores the making of the country siren’s latest release...

Reason 3.0 Workshop Creating A Surround Mix
It is perfectly feasible to mix a track in 5.1 surround using Reason alone. Hollin Jones shows you how it’s done...

Mic Restoration and Modification
Vintage mics are like classic cars – eventually they all need restoration. Fortunately, though, you can do much of the work yourself. Huw Price spruces up an eBay bargain.

System Optimisation
Computers have changed the way we make music, but they’re not perfect yet. Hollin Jones shows you some pro tricks for getting maximum performance out of your system.

Perfect Harmony
Take your tunes to the next level by introducing a harmony part or two. Keith Gemmell explains how to score harmonies for vocals, horns or strings.

Creative Signal Abuse
Who needs outboard processing when you can have just as much fun running audio through a synthesizer? Mark Cousins gets dark and dirty with his synth...

The Hammond Organ
The sound of the Hammond Organ continues to fascinate and delight musicians playing many different styles of music. Mark Cousins finds out what makes the Hammond tick...

Fresh Grooves
Maintaining your audience’s interest is much easier if your beats don’t become monotonous or dull. Ken Hikaru keeps it different...

Vocal Recording
In modern pop music – as well as many other styles – the lead vocal is generally the most important element. George Shilling sings out...

10MM90 Earth Loops
Electrical noise can be one of the most frustrating problems encountered by the project studio engineer – and a tricky one to fix. Grant Bridgeman goes to ground...

Ribbon Mic Technology
The first microphones that were able to record music accurately were the ribbons of the late 1920s. So why are they enjoying an explosion in popularity now, and what can they offer the modern recordist? Huw Price explores the ribbon renaissance…

Reason 3.0 Workshop
Incorporating hardware effects into your Reason projects is actually much easier than you might think. Hollin Jones takes it outside...

Mastering Processing
Could the difference between conventional studio outboard and mastering-grade processors be purely down to their price tags? Mark Cousins finds out...

Power Sampling
Today’s software sampler is one on the most versatile and powerful tools in your studio. Mark Cousins looks at the sampler in action…

Logic Pro 7 Workshop
From Kraftwerk to Mirwais, the world of electronic music has embraced the distinctive sound of the vocoder. Mark Cousins explores Logic Pro’s vocoding features.

10MM88 Headphones
There are many good reasons why you should equip your studio with a decent set of headphones, but remember to use them wisely. Grant Bridgeman dons his cans...

Project Studio Conversion Part 2
Having a dedicated space for your project studio not only improves the audible results of your endeavours,but also greatly improves your productivity and creativity.

Questions&Answers
For solutions to even the most taxing of music technology issues, turn to Music Tech’s panel of experts, who are always happy to help...

Sample Mapping
From round robins to release triggers, modern sampling is all about mapping and triggering sample data. Mark Cousins gets a slice of the action...

Live Sound For The Studio Engineer
Creating a sound that’s as good on stage as it is in the studio comes with its own fair share of technical challenges. Mark Cousins explores the essentials of live sound.

Stereo Wideners
The stereo width of a mix is surely determined by the space separating our monitors, so how can we get wider? Grant Bridgeman explores the world of stereo enhancers.

Creating A Dub Track In Reason
Achieving the characteristic Jamaican sound isn’t as strightforward as it might first seem. Follow Hollin Jones’ step-by-step guide to hitting the right summer note...

Networking Your Studio
Linking up two or more computers in your studio can seriously expand its musical potential – and make your life easier. Mark Cousins unwraps his Ethernet cables and gets networking...

Programming Synthesizers. Part 1: Anatomy of a synthesizer
Synthesizer programming still remains one of the black arts, shrouded in myth and mystery. Simon Cann leads you to your initiation ceremony.

Using Devices In Ableton Live 5
Instruments, MIDI Effects and Audio Effects are all accessed as plug-ins from Live 5’s flexible and easy-to-use Device interface, as Martin Delaney explains...

Hard Drives
Currently the ultimate in volume data storage and retrieval, hard drives have become a cornerstone of the modern studio. Mark Cousins takes the hard line...

Recording Guitar. Part 2: DI recording and digital modelling
Amp and effects modelling has hugely expanded the sonic opportunities available to the project studio owner. Mike Hillier explains how guitarists can put this new technology to creative use.

Questions and Answers
From raising your profile on MySpace to choosing the right piece of new kit for your studio, MTM’s panel of experts answer another selection of your questions.

Programming Synthesizers Part 2
In Part 2 of our in-depth look at synth programming, Simon Cann explores ways of making custom sounds for use in your own music.

The Importance Of Dither
Deliberately adding noise to a pristine digital recording may initially seem like a rather insane thing to do, but there’s a good reason why it’s necessary. Grant Bridgeman explains...

Composing Music For TV
TV music is a vibrant and exciting way for musicians to make money from their art. Mark Cousins gives us the low-down on producing music for the small screen...

Promoting Your Music on MySpace
It’s the latest way to showcase your music to a massive audience – and the best bit is that even record labels are using it to find the next big thing. Hollin Jones explains.

Reason 3.0 Workshop Drum 'n' Bass Beats
Struggling to create pounding, skittering drum‘n’bass beats in Reason? Hollin Jones offers a new approach to a fundamental task.

Recording Guitar. Part 1: System setup and mic'ing techniques
Tracking a great guitar sound is a common challenge for recording musicians. In this first part of his comprehensive guide, Mike Hillier explains how to make better recordings.

Dealing With Latency
Latency figures for computer-based recording systems have improved dramatically over the past decade, but, as Mark Cousins explains, you still need to know how and when to manage it...

Mixing A Five-Piece Band. Part 2: Keyboard and vocals
Concluding his look at creating the perfect mix, Mark Cousins explains how to integrate the keyboard and vocal parts.

Strange Sounds
In 1966 a new age in music was quietly ushered in when Robert Moog sold the first production models of his Moog synthesizer. At the same time, on the cusp of this new era in electronic music, two American rock bands were taking a more primitive, home

Laptop Performance
Live performance is no longer the preserve of players with ‘real’ instruments. Laptop luminary John von Seggern explains how cutting-edge musicians are using Traktor DJ Studio and Ableton Live to improvise and refine their grooves on stage…

Choosing And Using Monitors
It’s simple, right? Buy yourself a set of expensive monitors and your mixes will sound great. In fact, choosing a monitoring system requires a little more thought than that, as Huw Price explains...

Mixing A Five-Piece Band. Part 1: Drums, bass and guitar
There’s no ‘right’ approach, but here Mark Cousins offers a few options to help you deal with common elements within a mix.

Noise Reduction
In the studio, it’s absolutely critical to get rid of as much unwanted noise as possible. Here, we investigate your silencing options...

Modern Mastering. Part 2: Working at a professional level
What are the secrets that divide project studio mastering from what the professionals achieve? Mark Cousins masters the art...

Top 100 Music Software Tips
We asked Music Tech’s resident experts to share their Top 100 tips for Cubase SX/SL3, Live 5, Logic Pro 7, Reason 3.0 and Sonar 5. Here’s what they came up with…

Get Reel
Forget tape plug-ins. The digital revolution has pushed many precision analogue tape machines onto the second-hand market, so now is an ideal time to consider hitting the oxide. Huw Price discusses how to buy, use and maintain the reel thing.

Modern Mastering. Part 1: Aims, tools and principles
The mastering process is as susceptible to trends as any other part of music production. Mark Cousins looks at the state of the art.

Create a buzz by Podcasting
An enormous potential new listener base is waiting to listen to your music. JoE Silva provides the lowdown on the latest rage in expanding your online presence.

Project Studio Conversion
Grant Bridgeman tells the story of how he converted a redundant outbuilding at his Leicestershire home into a two-room floating studio structure for less than £3,000.

The Ultimate Guide To Compression. Part 3: Advanced Compression Techniques
Despite its brutish image, compression is a much more versatile beast than you might first imagine. Mark Cousins unlocks some of its lesser-known abilities.

Designing Sound For Animation
Sound and music assume even greater significance in animated productions. Here Robin Beauchamp reveals how to navigate the preproduction phase of creating a suitable soundtrack.

Reason 3.0 Tips And Tricks. Part 2: Instrument Modules And Effects
Reason 3.0’s many sophisticated instrument modules and effects offer a multitude of exciting and interesting possibilities, but they can appear rather daunting at first sight. Get more from the tools available to you with this second instalment of pr

The Ultimate Guide To Compression. Part 2: Using Compression In Tracking And Mixing
From just four simple parameters, compression opens up a wealth of opportunities for dynamic control in music production. Mark Cousins keeps it pumping…

Studio Software Free For All
Thanks to a global collaborative effort, making music on your computer is getting easier and cheaper. John Mulholland explains.

The Ultimate Guide To Compression. Part 1: Compression Essentials
In the first instalment of a three-part series, Mark Cousins looks at the essentials of compression – from buying your first compressor, to the principles of squashing sound.

Recording Tips For Engineers
There is no right or wrong way to record, but when you are the one with the responsibility of getting down the material, you had better get it right. Here are Tim Crich’s tips for a smoother session...

Using Ableton Live 5
In its latest incarnation, Live continues to build a bridge between freeform loop mangling and track-based song composition. Markkus Rovito pays the toll...

Memorable Melodies. Part 2: Constructing a melody
Many well-known tunes of our time are constructed from little more than a handful of variations on a few musical techniques and devices. Keith Gemmell is in tune...

Psychedelic Studio
During the 60s and 70s, before the advent of digital multi-effects boxes and software plug-ins, engineers and musicians experimented with everything to hand to create the lush organic sounds of the era...

Reason 3.0 Tips And Tricks. Part 1: Setting up and using Reason 3.0
Whether you’re new to Reason or have been using it for some time, there will inevitably be some aspects of the software you either didn’t know about or simply haven’t come across before.

Memorable Melodies. Part 1: What makes a tune unforgettable?
A memorable melody is key to capturing and maintaining interest in a song or score, so an understanding of composition is a useful asset. Keith Gemmell takes the lead.

Brutal Beats
Samples CDs may offer the quickest way of achieving an extreme drum sound, but rolling your own offers more flexibility. Mark Cousins explains.

Using Tracktion 2
Many of the better-known sequencing packages have a learning curve steeper than Everest. JoE Silva finds an easier route...

Shanghai Surprise
Forget the idea that all Chinese-made microphones are cheap copies or badged clones. On a recent trip to Shanghai, Neil Worley discovered that things are changing.

CD Dupes For Less
Many CD duplication companies now offer affordable deals for unsigned bands. Keith Gemmell explains how you can get shop-quality CDs on a low budget.

Child's play
Teaching music in schools and colleges isn’t an easy task. Mike Hillier takes a seat at the back of the class to see what’s being done to make it easier.

Recording Drums Part Two
In the final part of the series, Huw Price looks at the finer points of drum recording and explains why studios, recording mediums and gaffer tape are all-important.

Tiger For Musicians
After 18 months in the development jungle, Apple’s new OSX Tiger has finally pounced on the scene. But will it benefit musicians? Hollin Jones goes in for the kill.

Creating an epic soundtrack Part Two
Productions don’t come more excessive than a 90-piece orchestra accompanied by a 110-piece choir. Mark Cousins follows the score...

Buying Classic Mics
Musicians and engineers have always embraced technological progress in the studio, but many look to the past when it comes to mics. Huw Price finds out why.

Creating an epic soundtrack Part One
Part 1. Writing the score and recording the orchestra Recording a top-class orchestra playing your own compositions is a thrilling musical experience. Mark Cousins packs his bags for a trip to Prague...

Licensed to share
The revolutionary Creative Commons movement has come up with a radical new take on protecting your copyright. Keith Gemmell gets the lowdown...

Recording Drums Part One
The art of recording drums has evolved perhaps more than any other task facing the studio engineer. Huw Price goes back in time to find out why and how.

Mixing with the best...
Undoubtedly the most creative part of sound engineering, a good mix can transform the sound – and success – of a song. Mark Cousins gets the balance right...

Reason 3.0 Guide to new features
Version 3.0 of Propellerhead’s much-loved sequencer sees huge improvements to workflow and productivity. Hollin Jones makes tracks...

Ergonomics and your studio
How we set up our studio equipment can profoundly affect our musical productivity. Grant Bridgeman explores ways of bringing things closer to hand.

Capturing the perfect vocal
There are plenty of synth samples, drum loops and guitar effects to make your life easy, but if you need an original vocal you are going to have to record it yourself. Huw Price explains the techniques you need to nail that killer vocal.

Software reverb
Once a poor relation to hardware processors, software reverb now leads the way in the range and quality of treatments available. Mark Cousins finds a bigger space...

Ringing in the cash
Making money from the music you create is not an easy thing to do, so why not take advantage of the growing ringtone market? Mike Hillier answers the call.

Art of mastering
Giving your latest production that polished, commercial sheen is a specialist job that requires more than a little bit of professional know-how. Danny Lewis shows you how to turn a song into a masterpiece.

Advanced recording techniques Part Two
Recording acoustic guitars is tricky enough at the best of times, but it's even more difficult when you have to take care of both the playing and recording duties. Huw Price makes your life easier.

Creating a software orchestra
Even with a fully-fledged sample library, your sequencer is the key to unlocking the full potential of the software orchestra.Mark Cousins conducts his own investigation…

Creating a soundtrack
Demand for composers who can write music for film is on the rise, opening up lucrative new opportunities you may not have thought about. Xander Snell gets cued up...

Using Logic Pro 7
Logic Pro 7’s new features usher in a new way of making music and working with the application. Mark Cousins makes a new start.

Advanced recording techniques Part One
Recording electric guitars is simple: just grab your trusty SM57 and away you go. But are you happy with mediocrity or are you shooting for something higher? Huw Price talks tone.

Laptops live
The use of laptops on stage is redefining how musicians use technology when playing live. Mark Cousins explores a more lightweight approach to going on the road...

Using Cubase SX3
The latest version of Cubase SX has some inspired new features that will enhance your music-making experience. Hollin Jones shows you the best side of SX3…

Drawing visitors to your site - Music and the internet Part Three
Getting a website is just the beginning of an exciting adventure in marketing your music – but how will anyone know that it’s there? Keith Gemmell explains know to attract visitors to your site and keep them returning for more.

Creative Sampling
Sampling has come a long way since the original digital samplers of the early 80s. Mark Cousins explores what contemporary samplers offer today’s musicians.

Building a microphone collection
As your recording endeavours evolve, you’ll probably find that you need to experiment with different types of microphone. Rob McMinn examines some of your options.

Promoting your music online - Music and the internet Part Two
Setting up a website might be a daunting prospect, but it will be an essential promotional tool. Keith Gemmell tells you what you need to know about choosing an ISP and web host, and designing and building your site.

The new music business - Music and the internet Part One
Online music marketing is booming as more musicians realise that they don’t actually need a recording contract any more. In the first of a three-part series, Keith Gemmell explains how the internet is starting a revolution in music sales.

Software synths: Power user's guide
Software synths are no longer the poor relations of their hardware forebears. Mark Cousins assesses what’s available and how to use it with distinction.

Digital Modelling for guitarists
Are guitarists finally ditching valve amps and getting those ‘bits’ between their teeth? Huw Price investigates the art of digital modelling.

Sound studio treatments
Probably the main factor separating your studio from a professional facility, is its acoustics. Huw Price explains why acoustic treatment is so important, what problems you studio is likely to suffer from and how the latest products can quickly trans

Creative signal abuse
Pushing audio equipment to its limits is an essential part of contemporary music production. So throw away the rulebook and let Mark Cousins guide you along the path to becoming decidedly lo-fi…

Out of the loop. Part Two
In part one of his investigation into creating drum tracks without loops, Nigel Lord looked at the many advantages of using a real drummer behind a real set of drums. Now, in part two, he swaps his drum kit for a drum map and his sticks for a couple

Out of the loop. Part One
The vast majority of music features a drum track of one sort or another, and there are other ways of creating them apart from resorting to looped samples. Over this month and next, Nigel Lord explains how to get a different type of rhythm.

Sound for video games
Producing sound for games consoles is a high-wire act of technical trickery and sonic dexterity. Tom Colvin lifts the lid on the pizza-eating, night-owl world of the games sound designer...

Recording nu-metal guitar tracks
The wall-of-sound guitar effect is very popular in current nu-metal releases. Here Pete Crisp explains how to go about recording it.

Guitar Tech: Recording guitar
Does the prospect of recording scare the living daylights out of you? Well fear not – Mick Taylor and Hollin Jones explain how you can start recording your guitar on three different systems in next to no time, and offer some advice on deciding which

Monitors and monitoring
Often considered the least important link in the production chain and even more frequently incorrectly mounted and positioned, monitors deserve much closer attention when setting up your studio, argues Dan Goldstein.

Creating a software orchestra
The software orchestra has finally become a convincing alternative to the real thing. Mark Cousins takes a look at how to get that big Hollywood sound.

Microphones: catching waves
It’s usually the first – and many would say, the most important – link in the signal chain. Choose the right mic for the job and you’re already halfway to getting a great recording. Huw Price investigates the microphone in all its guises.

Guitar Tech: Structure, mixing and arrangement
Getting great guitar sounds is one thing. What to do with them in your recordings is quite another. Mick Taylor talks us through constructing a simple rock/pop song.

Logic Pro 6
Emagic’s decision to gift Logic 6 buyers with its entire plug-in range presents only one problem – what do with them all. Mark Cousins explains how you can get the best from Logic Pro 6.

Money for something
With illegal downloads crippling the record companies and music-free pub chains restricting the size of the gigging circuit, it’s tempting to think that your music will never be any more than an expensive hobby. Not so! there are dozens of ways in wh

Guitar Tech: Anti-guitar tones
Once you have your guitar tracks down, what your recording really needs is… your guitar. Mick Taylor explains why.

Recording live sound
Whether you’re planning to capture the sound of a band or a chamber orchestra, recording live performances is a discipline in its own right. Xander Snell explores the options.

The laptop studio
Don’t be bound by the confines of your studio – break free with the latest laptop and mobile technology. Phil Ward explains precisely what you need and how to use it.

Guitar Tech: Real guitar tones
Forget a million presets and endless editing – what you need is a handful of great guitar tones that’ll enrich almost every recording you’ll ever make. Mick Taylor deals out five of the best.

Creating and manipulating drum loops
A little sample manipulation and processing can help create the perfect drum loops for your songs. Ian Waugh wields the scissors and paste pot…

Guitar Tech: Recording Bass
Why use a bass guitar when there are so many top-notch bass samples around? Robbie Gladwell provides the answers and looks at various ways to record the real thing.

101 Recording Tips
The standard of your recordings will directly influence the final quality of your music. Keith Gemmell has assembled a staggering array of recording tips to make sure you get the very best results from the first stage of your music production process

Sample editing
The manipulation of audio samples is an integral part of the digital music production process. Ian Waugh describes the essential functions you’ll find in most audio editors and explains how and when to use them.

Mix perfect
ecording may not be the easiest process, but it’s the mixing stage that really makes or breaks a song. So fingers on faders as Ian Waugh explains how to perfect your mix…

The 5.1 studio
Setting up and using your studio for 5.1 demands a little more attention than you may think. Greg Marshall shows you the shining path to auditory Nirvana...

Guitar Tech: The live environment. Part 2: The gig
You climb on stage, plug in your guitar, flick the standby on your amp and… nothing. Not a peep, not even a buzz, just deafening silence. Steve Howgill maps a course to navigate around the many pitfalls waiting to engulf the unwary gigging guitarist.

Music To Picture
With more TV channels, video and DVD producers and fledgling filmmakers than ever before, there has never been a better time to get into writing and editing music for the moving image. Paul Wiffin explores the techniques involved.

Guitar Tech: The live environment. Part 1: Kit
Playing guitar at a live gig is a whole new ball game from noodling in your studio. Time-served gigging guitarist Steve Howgill offers us the benefit of his experience, starting with a look at what kit to take with you.

What's new in SX 2.0?
The latest version of Steinberg’s heavyweight sequencer introduces over 100 new features. Hollin Jones explains how to get the best from the new options.

Live sound
Live gigs are still one of the best ways to hear and play music. Xander Snell reveals how to get the most out of a live setup so that you sound professional – even on a small rig.

Guitar Tech: Pickup your licks and tricks
Know the difference between single coil and humbuckers? Ciarán Robinson looks at how different pickups work and how to get the best out of your setup.

Surround yourself
5.1 surround has burst into our homes from DVD films and games consoles, but what’s the music industry doing about harnessing the power of this exciting format? Stuart Bruce explains that it’s time for engineers to prick up their ears.

Vocal Processing
A heavily processed vocal sound is one of the most distinctive elements of today’s releases. Ian Waugh discusses some of the treatments available, and we talk to top producers about what they’re currently doing with their vocals.

Studio Acoustics
How does sound move around your studio, and what implications does it have for studio design? Howard Turner explains the fundamental rules that dictate how sound behaves, and looks at the basic techniques used to create great-sounding rooms.

Guitar Tech: Foot to the pedal
Want to know your phase from your flange? Your tremolo from your vibrato? Ciarán Robinson explains.

Mastering your own destiny
The art of mastering has been transformed by the advent of sophisticated software, giving musicians more control than ever over how their mixes sound to the outside world. But, as Dan Goldstein explains, a knowledge of basic principles is essential i

More Reason Then Ever
Reason has continually set new standards for power and ease of use among software studios,and version 2.5 is no exception. Hollin Jones takes a look at the elements that make up the latest upgrade from Propellerhead Software.

Guitar Tech: Recording Acoustic Guitar
Capturing the rich timbral range and subtle dynamics that characterise a great recorded acoustic guitar sound needn’t be difficult, says Janet Cook, if you have the right approach and are willing to practise and experiment.

Connectivity
One of the greatest challenges of today’s music systems is to make all the disparate boxes, computers and programs talk to each other. Here, Hollin Jones shows you how to fix 15 of your most common integration problems.

Guitar Tech: Distortion
What started by accident has now become one of the most important and recognisable accents of the contemporary electric guitar sound. Ciarán Robinson explains what distortion is and how to use it.

Dynamics tips
Make your tracks punchy and your mix more professional. Ian Waugh rounds up a collection of tips on compression, limiting and gating to optimise your dynamics processing.

Guitar Tech: Recording guitar
The digital revolution has added a heap of new options for the recording guitarist. And you can still do it the old-fashioned way. Sam Trevellyan guides us through the kit and techniques of mic’ing up, Direct Injection and amp emulation.

Mixing it with EQ
EQ is an essential part of the mixing process, but how do you use it to best effect? Ian Waugh shares his packet of EQ tips…

Tips from the pros: Recording a horn section
Bored with sampled sounds on your demos? Inject some soul with the impact and excitement of a powerful horn section. Keith Gemmell provides tips on planning the session, scoring the parts and getting them on record.

Supercharge Your Cubase Skills
Cubase expert Ian Waugh plies you with a plethora of hints, tips and tricks designed to help you get the most out of Cubasis, VST and SX/SL, and power your music making to a new level.

Planning and creating your perfect studio. Part IV: Box Clever
In a world where computers are supposed to give you everything for very little, Hardware Digital Audio Workstations continue to fight their corner. Daniel Duffell explains why these dedicated boxes rightly remain the first choice for many.

Tips from the pros: Recording brass and woodwind
Getting down large blown instruments can be tricky, so here Keith Gemmell offers some important guidelines on recording each instrument, plus a tutorial on punch-in/punch-out recording with Cubase SX/SL and Logic.

Guitar Tech: Guitar synthesis
Are guitarists not invited to the synthesis party? Of course you are. Ben Gerrold looks at how your guitar might just be the MIDI controller you’ve always dreamed of.

Planning and creating your perfect studio. Part III: Going Mobile
So far in our series on creating your perfect studio we’ve assumed you’re desk-bound with a fixed installation in your study or spare room. This month Aubrey Parsons takes a look at the burgeoning trend in mobile studios.

Working as a media composer. Part III: Doing The Job And Getting Paid
In the final instalment of this series, Mike Sheppard takes a look at working sync-to-picture, and discusses how to get paid for your work.

Tips from the pros: Mixing tracks
The process of mixing down tracks is a long and complicated one, and experience counts for a lot. Here, top producer Gary Bromham offers up his tips on getting your mix right.

Planning and creating your perfect studio. Part II: Selecting your studio software
If you decide to base your studio around a computer, you’ll need to know which software to install and how the different system elements can be integrated. Bob Dormon explains your choices.

Working as a media composer. Part II: Getting your first piece of work
Last time we looked at how to promote yourself as a media composer. Now, after two weeks of sitting by the phone, you realise nothing is happening. Mike Sheppard explains what to do next…

Your music, your rights
What are your rights and how can you protect them? Ann Harrison and Mark Isherwood navigate the legal minefield of publishing your music on the internet.

Tips from the pros: Tracking Drums
Recording drums is notoriously time consuming, so Greg Marshall explains how to get the best results from a session. He also demonstrates how to use Pro Tools to create a perfect drum track from a few good samples, if things don’t quite go according

How to become a media composer. Part I: Skills, studio and promotion
Composing for TV, film, ads or games can be a lucrative and rewarding discipline, but how do you get your first break? Composer and publisher Mike Sheppard opens his three-part series with a few pointers.

Planning and creating your perfect studio. Part I: Connecting your hardware
You can already play music and now you want to create your own studio. In the first instalment of a major series Ian Waugh leads you through some of the initial buying considerations and shows you how to plug your hardware together.

Music for the masses
We all know why it’s good to get our music online, but how do we ensure our visitors will be able to listen to our tracks… and be happy to come back for more? Ian Waugh discusses the best formats for the net.