If you're a newcomer to the world of computer-based music production (or you need a quick refresher course) we'd recommend you get your hands on the brand-new Computer Music Special, out now. It's a complete beginner's guide, and comes with a full software studio on the included disc and tutorials inside the magazine to get you started.

Gear essentials
Everything you need to start producing music with your PC or Mac is here. To kick things off, all the gear and software you need in your computer-based setup is explained in jargon-free terms, with budget-friendly recommendations.

Fundamentals
Then there's a series of step-by-step tutorials covering the fundamentals of production and composition, including building beats, composing basslines, recording guitars and vocals, comping, arranging and mixing tracks.

Easy guides
Easy guides to computer-based sampling, synthesis and effects will get you quickly to grips with these three cornerstones of modern music. Try out the techniques and tools for yourself and discover what a difference they can make to your tracks...

Projects
The magazine rounds off the proceedings with a series of projects showing you how to produce electro house, hip-hop and metal tracks from start to finish using your computer and the software included on the magazine disc.

Computer Music Special 32: Stockists
Selected WH Smith, Borders, Barnes & Noble, Chapters and independent newsagents
UK/Europe: onsale now
North America: onsale 5 November
ROW: 19 November

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