New tech gear of the month: review round-up (April 2017)

We've had our hands on huge and compact synths, an updated DAW and countless plugins recently, as we continue to seek out the best new hi-tech music making gear and put it to the test

Read on for a whistle-stop guide to all the tech gear that was reviewed on MusicRadar in March, starting with a stunning package from Slate Digital.

MusicRadar’s verdict:

“With its simplicity being, mostly, a positive, VerbSuite Classics takes convolution to new heights, delivering the essence of eight of the finest reverbs of all time.”

4.5 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Slate Digital VerbSuite Classics

(Originally reviewed in Computer Music)

MusicRadar’s verdict:

“PSP's action-packed and endlessly creative frequency-shaping plugin delivers fabulous hardware-style filtering, both in the studio and on stage. A must-have!”

5 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: PSP Audioware stompFilter

(Originally reviewed in Computer Music)

MusicRadar’s verdict:

“Spark steers clear of complex rigs to deliver top notch Marshall amp tones with some excellent supporting pedals and effects.”

4.5 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Mercuriall Spark

(Originally reviewed in Computer Music)

MusicRadar’s verdict:

“Regroover may be a little unsure of its own remit, but that just makes it intriguing and open-ended. We can see it evolving into something truly special.”

4 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Accusonus Regroover

(Originally reviewed in Computer Music)

MusicRadar's verdict:

“It may not be groundbreaking, but Punish combines excellent processing with simplicity to tweak or transform sounds.”

5 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Heavyocity Punish

(Originally reviewed in Computer Music)

MusicRadar’s verdict:

“Bitwig Studio is now a well-rounded and impressive DAW across the board, and the new modulation system is a real cut above.”

4.5 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Bitwig Studio 2 

(Originally reviewed in Future Music)

MusicRadar’s verdict:

“It oozes personality and can go from a warm/twisted monosynth to dirty/ambient chord machine and powerful sequencer - mind blown!”

5 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Arturia MatrixBrute 

(Originally reviewed in Future Music)

MusicRadar’s verdict:

“A fantastic-sounding starter system that is begging to be expanded.”

3.5 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Erica Synths Pico System 1

(Originally reviewed in Future Music)

MusicRadar’s verdict:

“The LX88+ combines a pretty good keyboard with extensive DAW integration, and is about as good as you’ll get at this price point.”

4.5 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Nektar Impact LX88+

(Originally reviewed in Future Music)

MusicRadar’s verdict:

“Captures the essence of the original 303 and adds a twist. But Roland could have gone further in updating the sequencer and interface.”

4 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Roland TB-03 Bass Line

(Originally reviewed in Future Music)

MusicRadar’s verdict:

“ARQ is fun and capable of good results. But before you get dazzled by its lights, consider if it’s the perfect fit for you, as it isn’t cheap.”

3.5 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Zoom ARQ Aero RhythmTrak AR-96

(Originally reviewed in Future Music)

MusicRadar’s verdict:

“This is a great system which really does give you the character of classic vintage microphones at a price that won’t make you faint.”

4.5 out of 5

FULL REVIEW: Slate Digital VMS 

(Originally reviewed in Future Music)