Review | Oct 08, 2015 by Sara Simms

One of the names that's getting more attention in the world of professional DJ turntables these days is Stanton. Sara Simms puts the Stanton STR8.150 decks to the test in a scratch session.

Tutorial | Sep 29, 2015 by Sara Simms

It's time to get to grips with the new DJ remix format from Native Instruments: Stems. Using a Kontrol D2 and the new 4-tracks-in-one audio file format, Sara Simms shows it works in the real world.

Review | Sep 23, 2015 by Sara Simms

With its own growing library, partnering with other big sample libraries, and a monthly subscription price, Splice Sounds aims to be the most convenient place to get samples from. Does it succeed?

Tutorial | Sep 19, 2015 by Sara Simms

A good DJ can become a great one if they invest in learning about the foundations of the music they love. Here's six of my favourite techno records that helped to define and shape the genre.

Tutorial | Sep 17, 2015 by Sara Simms

The recent new app for DJs, Beatport Pro brings a host of new, convenient features for DJs, including syncing with Beatport and syncing with Native Instruments' Traktor! Sara Simms shows you how.

Review | Sep 02, 2015 by Sara Simms

Smaller than your average cat, the Blackstar FLY 3 mini amp is designed to be highly portable but also packs a punch in terms of sound. Sara Simms takes one out and about to give it a thorough test.

Tutorial | Aug 26, 2015 by Sara Simms

If you want to stand out from the crowd and help your DJ mixes sound and feel deeper then it can be worth adding external analog effects to your set. And it's a lot easier than you might think...

Tutorial | Aug 21, 2015 by Sara Simms

Are you curious about writing pop songs? If you're an established or aspiring writer who's interested in writing pop music, here are a few tips on how to craft better pop songs.

Review | Jul 27, 2015 by Sara Simms

If you crave for deep bass sound vibrations when listening to music sitting in a chair, then the SubPac S2 is going to appeal. Sara Simms puts this new tactile technology to the test.

Tutorial | Jul 27, 2015 by Sara Simms

Despite DJing being easier than ever, there are challenges which digital DJs face on the road to success. Sara Simms shares 7 tips new DJs should heed to help them on their journey.

Tutorial | Jul 01, 2015 by Sara Simms

Tired of making beats with the same old drum samples in your DAW? Do you dream of programming gorgeous techno rhythms on Roland's AIRA TR-8, a drum machine with the legendary sounds of the 808 & 909?

Tutorial | Jun 17, 2015 by Sara Simms

Want to make big, fat layered lead synth sounds? Sara Simms takes you through the process using Sylenth in the DAW of your choice. Perfect for beginners and more intermediate producers and musicians.

Tutorial | Jun 10, 2015 by Sara Simms

Music hardware shouldn't be played alone. In this quick tutorial for producers, live performers & DJs, Sara Simms shows how to sync a Roland AIRA TR-8 with Traktor to get the best of both worlds.

Tutorial | May 30, 2015 by Sara Simms

Thanks to the tools available and their affordable price tags, there's never been a better time to produce music. Sara Simms shares 8 tips for new & veteran producers to get the music flowing.

Review | May 29, 2015 by Sara Simms

There's lots of microphones for capturing good quality sound in a studio or project studio environment, but how does the Royer R-121 ribbon mic stand up? Sara Simms puts it to the test.