Latest articles by Si Truss
Sonic Charge Synplant 2 review
An esoteric classic gets an AI-powered update. We plant a seed to see what grows…
6 of the best new controllers and sequencers in 2023
Ableton's vastly reimagined third iteration of Push takes the top spot this year, but who else made our shortlist?
Sugar Bytes Effectrix2 review
The classic rhythmic effect machine returns with a long-awaited follow-up. We enter the matrix
4 of the best new drum machines and grooveboxes in 2023
Roland's innovative, sequencer-focused SH-4d takes the crown this year, but who came runner up?
7 of the best new hardware synths in 2023
In a year dominated by vintage hardware throwbacks and modern innovations, we crown the UDO Super Gemini as 2023's best new synth
How to get the perfect 808s: 8 tips to help you achieve weighty 808 kicks
Whether used as a kick or bass, get perfect 808s every time with our essential guide…
Ableton Live vs Bitwig Studio: which is the best DAW for you?
As Live 12 arrives, we put it head-to-head with Bitwig Studio 5 to ask, which is the king of the Berlin DAWs?
5 things you need to know to get the most out of Ableton Live 12
Video: master the big workflow changes to become a Live 12 power user
Paper Dragon: "It's all about making instruments exist in a real space - putting them through distortion channels, reamping and incorporating ‘air’ into the sound"
We visit the Bristol trio combining their varied industry experience to create raw, nostalgic club music in the studio
What's the difference between different microphone designs and how do they work?
If you've heard the terms dynamic, condenser, and ribbon mic before and wondered what they actually mean, we're here to help
8 essential tips to help you get the most out of Bitwig Studio
Bitwig Version 5 brought a ton of fantastic new features to this increasingly powerful DAW. Get stuck in with our top tips
The best free VST drum plugins 2023: drum machines, samplers and grooveboxes for budget-friendly beatmaking
Top quality free drum synths, ROMplers and percussion plugins
Cableguys FilterShaper XL review
The modulation-obsessed developer turns its attention back to its classic filter plugin. We get moving…
Cinthie: "My studio is pretty much a Roland museum. All these old machines are all still very relevant"
As a DJ, producer, label boss and owner of the Elevate record store, Cinthie is a cornerstone of Berlin’s contemporary house scene
5 classic house bass sounds and how to make them
We cook up some of house music's most iconic low-end patches
The definitive guide to producing house music in 2023
It's the genre that gave birth to DJing and clubs as we know them, spanning from black and queer roots in Chicago to arenas, festivals and pop charts across the world - but how is it made?
Gear Talk: Is Roland's Gaia 2 a worthy successor to the original? | Is digital hardware a waste of money? | Why is Behringer calling out gear reviewers?
We discuss the month's burning music tech questions in our new video series
Roland Gaia 2 review
Roland’s ‘hands-on’ virtual analogue returns with some fresh tricks up its sleeve. But does it still have one foot stuck in the past?
8 interesting ways to transition from one part of a track to the next
Bored of using the same old risers? These transition tips will help you get from A to B without catching any Zs
Make some freaky sounds with these experimental sound design tips
Sometimes the best way to inspire new sounds is to go leftfield. Think outside the box with these tips…
12 tips, tricks and ideas for making better beats
Drums are the backbone of most electronic tracks, so giving them a distinctive sound is vital. Here are some tips to help get them on the right path
Pro Tools Sketch: industry-standard DAW gets Ableton Live-style clip launching and a free iPad app, but will it convince you to switch?
Avid makes its pitch to loop-based music makers
James Hype: "The kick drum is everything in dance music. The best way to fix a shit track is to change the kick"
The in-demand DJ and hit-making producer demonstrates his approach to crafting bootleg edits
