Issue 282 of Future Music is on sale now

To many electronic musicians who were raised in the age of vinyl and analogue, modern DJ software - with its automatic beat-detection and instant sync buttons - can seem like it's designed to remove all skill from the art of mixing. Understandably, there are plenty out there who believe that DJing in the 21st century is less about musical skill than it is the art of posing behind a controller and pretending you're actually doing something.

While it's true that there are DJs out there, including some high-profile names, that take advantage of these technological advances in order to get an easy ride, it's certainly not the case across the board. In fact, not only does digital technology not negate traditional DJ skills, but it opens up a near endless world of creative potential and artistic opportunity, and it's precisely this aspect of modern DJing that we're exploring in this month's cover feature, Beyond The Sync Button.

All of that said, it wouldn't feel like FM if we spent the whole issue dwelling purely in the digital realm, would it? To redress the balance we've got some killer analogue gear on our test bench this month. Check out this month's review section for our verdict on Elektron's Analog RYTM drum machine (spoiler: it's great) and the latest in Arturia's line of analogue hardware, the MiniBrute SE.

Get 25% off purchases at Beatport exclusively with this issue of FM. See contents pages for details.

Buy this issue now via:

Apple Newsstand (iPhone/iPad/iPod touch)

Google Play (Android/Chrome for PC/Mac)

Zinio (PC/Mac/Android/iOS)

In print

Start a 30-day trial digital subscription today and get this issue - including all samples, files and downloads - all for free!

Technique

Beyond The Sync Button - In our guide to DJing in the digital age we explore the advanced and creative features of Traktor and Serato, and show you how to use them to take your sets to the next level

Parallel Universe - Get creative with our expert guide to envelope shaping

Producer's Guide To... Maschine - Part 2: Mixing and arranging

Interviews

In The Studio With Perc - Producer, DJ and Perc Trax-boss Ali Wells, aka Perc, shows us around his London studio

Todd Terje - The Norwegian House producer reveals the synths and sounds behind It's Album Time

Classic Album - Plaid duo Ed Handley and Andy Turner talks us through their classic Warp debut Not For Threes

Reviews

  • Elektron Analog RYTM
  • Arturia MiniBrute SE
  • Rob Papen Blue II
  • UAD-2 Dangerous BAX EQ Collection
  • Sinevibes Hexonator
  • Korg RK100S
  • Pioneer RMX-500
  • And more...

Samples

Rave Synths - Acid leads, D'n'B basses, euphoric pads and more in this energetic pack of instruments

Alarms and Sirens - Add some drama to your tracks with these unique FX

UK Urban - R'n'B and Hip-Hop sounds with a British flavour

Future Music

Future Music is the number one magazine for today's producers. Packed with technique and technology we'll help you make great new music. All-access artist interviews, in-depth gear reviews, essential production tutorials and much more. Every marvellous monthly edition features reliable reviews of the latest and greatest hardware and software technology and techniques, unparalleled advice, in-depth interviews, sensational free samples and so much more to improve the experience and outcome of your music-making.