Latest articles by Matt McCracken
Best dynamic microphones 2025: Top picks for recording instruments, vocals and podcasts in challenging conditions
Equally at home on the stage or in the studio, we’ve tested a range of dynamic mics to help you get the results you’re after
Best budget studio headphones 2025: Cheap headphones to tackle every studio task
Expert buying advice, plus our pick of budget studio headphones for music-makers from just $49/£39
Best free DAWs 2025: The best free music production software
Start making music today by downloading a digital audio workstation for nothing - featuring options for PC, Mac, Android, iOS, and Linux
Best iPhone microphones 2025: Top picks for mobile recording, vlogging and video conferencing
Transform your iPhone or iPad into a studio with these mics from Austrian Audio, Shure, Teenage Engineering, Zoom, and more…
Supercharge your next production with up to 50% off instruments and effects in the unmissable Native Instruments NKS partner sale
The perfect sale for producers just landed over at the Native Instruments website
Best XLR microphones 2025: Superb sound for studio and stage
Capture the very best-quality, noise-free performances with these XLR-equipped mics from AKG, Aston, Neumann, Røde, Sennheiser, Shure and more...
Best looper pedals 2025: these are the greatest loop stations for every budget
Explore our pick of compact and floorboard loopers from the likes of Boss, TC Electronic, Line 6, and more
"Offers a huge amount of options for all players of stringed instruments, and provides the highest accuracy available for any clip-on tuner": Peterson Stroboclip HDC review
One of the most accurate clip-on tuners available for musicians, and discuss that astronomical entry fee
“A great option for beginner players or those looking to expand their tonal palette on a budget”: Harley Benton DNAfx GiT Advanced review
The middle model of Harley Benton’s budget multi-effects pedal range looks for your attention in a crowded market
Quick! Get the original Spark smart amp at a super low price for a limited time in Positive Grid’s big Labor Day sale
With the launch of the Spark 2, prices are starting to plummet on the original and much-loved Spark amp
Best studio monitor stands 2025: Optimise your home studio
Everything you need to know about studio monitor stands and why you need them in your recording studio
Best guitar amp headphones 2025: Our top choices, from wearable tech to pro in-ear monitors
Immerse yourself in your guitar playing with headphones, earphones and IEMs from Boss, Vox, Sennheiser, Shure, Focal and more…
Best distortion pedals 2025: our pick of the top gain stages for guitar
Bring the filth with 10 of the best distortion pedals for hard-rock, metal, and beyond
With up to 94% off at Plugin Boutique, these are the best plugin deals you’ll see for a while - here’s 5 picks from a mixing fanatic with 20 years in the home recording game
Now’s the perfect time to upgrade your plugin collection with this ginormous sale at Plugin Boutique
Best acoustic guitar strings 2025: Find your favourite acoustic strings
Our pick of the best acoustic guitar strings for your style and budget from Elixir, Ernie Ball, Martin, D'Addario, and more
"One of the standout signature guitars I’ve played in my time": Gretsch Electromatic John Gourley Broadkaster review
A relatively affordable semi-hollow signature guitar with a stunning look from the man behind Portugal. The Man
How to set the preamp gain on your audio interface
Ensure you are getting the best recording quality possible every time with our top tips
How to plug mics and instruments into your audio interface
Not sure how to plug into your shiny new audio interface? Get set up for recording like a pro
Best podcast headphones 2025: An essential tool for your podcast rig
Our pick of closed-back, wired headphones will help you up your podcasting game in no time
Best podcast mixers 2025: The central hub of your podcasting setup
Find the ideal mixer for podcasting with our top picks from Rode, Yamaha, PreSonus, and others – from budget to pro
“Left me wishing my first guitar had been this much fun to play”: Harley Benton TE-52 NA Vintage Series review
We get hands-on with one of the cheapest guitars in the Harley Benton range
Best small studio monitors 2025: Compact speakers from budget to professional
The best speakers for small studios and portable use, from KRK, Focal, IK Multimedia and more
Best cheap microphones for recording 2025: Budget microphones for studio and stage
Record instruments or vocals, make a podcast or boost live performances for less, with our pick of the best budget microphones around
