NI's Trakor Kontrol X1 MK2 is here and includes some novel additions, a simplified layout to its predecessor and can be used as a MIDI controller for other software. Sara Simms checks it out.
Studio condenser microphones come in all shapes and sizes to suit different budgets. And, we were curious to see how M-Audio's Nova, sub $100 condenser mic performs. Matt Vanacoro checks it out.
If you're looking for a high-quality solo string library then Kirk Hunter Studio's Spotlight Strings is going to appeal. After much testing, Jay Asher discovers it is even better than it sounds.
There are not many libraries out there for harmonica. But, before you do a google search, check out this review for the expertly crafted Chris Hein Chromatic Harmonica Kontakt instrument.
There's a handful of worthwhile software sample-based drum machine emulators on the market. So will Wave Alchemy's Transistor Revolution II suit impress? Noah Pred gives it a thorough workout.
The latest update to Native Instruments' Razor adds some big features, including the excellent new modules and Maschine 2.0 integration. G. W. Childs gives it a closer inspection in this review.
Twisted Tools have always been on the cutting edge when it comes to creating music tech. Their latest Reaktor ensemble lets you remix up to 128 loops in real time to create something amazing.
Want to mashup your iPad? Well, not literally... but, create mashups on your iPad? Cakewalk (famous for their flagship DAW, Sonar) have an app for that. Hollin Jones checks it out.
Have you ever wished you could have one keyboard that worked on your iOS devices and your computer? IK Multimedia reckon they might have just the thing and Hollin Jones is on call to test it out.
Arturia's hardware and software synths are well respected amongst professionals and used in studios world-wide. Mo Volans dives into their V-Collection to discover if it is every synth lovers dream.
Aside from their extensive library of loops, Big Fish Audio have created Zodiac, a Kontakt-based virtual instrument with your sound design and soundtrack needs in mind. Hollin Jones explores.
What do you get when you cross fashion with excellent sound quality in a pair of headphones? G. W. Childs puts the Momentum On-Ear cans to the test and finds out if they sound as good as they look.
Are doing your own critical mixing and mastering, or preparing your music for release? Looking for an exceptional analog EQ unit? Elysia's XFilter rack could be just what you're looking for.
We could simply tell you Arturia's MicroBrute is a monophonic hardware synth with analog audio signal path, CV In/Out & impressive sonic ability. But that doesn't come close to describing its beauty.
In our final roundup of the best music tech gear from 2013, we focus on the world of DJing. Specifically, on our top 10 fave DJ hardware gear that we reviewed.