20 super-speedy synth and synthesis tips
Make waves fast with our quick and easy guide to speedy synthesis
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Advice for music careers, and lessons for music gear and techniques
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Musical modes and how to actually use them in your songwriting
Mode to joy? Step-by-step guidance, recommended listening and pro tips
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Is it better to learn on acoustic or electronic drums? We tackle the topics of noise, space, cost, playability and more to help you decide
How to choose an audio interface for your home studio and record anything into your computer
An audio interface is a studio essential. Here’s everything you need to consider when buying your first one, or your next one...
Songwriting tips you can use: Program the perfect bassline in your DAW
Use music theory and programming tricks to take your low-end up a notch
Signing a music contract? Here are 5 things you really need to look out for
A very quick primer on some key considerations before signing on the dotted line
Create your own simple synth bass sound in 6 easy steps
Synthesis is one of the quickest and, potentially, easiest methods of creating awesome, original bass sounds. Here’s how it’s done…
Usable music theory: How to create a chord progression from any melody
12 easy steps to harmonising in your DAW
Best earplugs for musicians 2024: hearing protection for the practice room to your next gig
Our rundown of the very best earplugs for concerts, band practice, and more to give your ears the protection they deserve
How to choose the right set of studio monitor speakers so you can hear how your mix really sounds
GEAR EXPO 2024: Passive, active, sub, 2-way , or 3-way? Our guide will point you in the right direction to make the perfect monitor choice for your studio
How to choose a microphone to record any instrument or vocal
GEAR EXPO 2024: Don’t know your dynamic from your ribbon or condenser mics? Here’s everything you need to know about live and studio microphones
Music theory basics: Master modulation, or how to use key changes in your songwriting (without resorting to cliché)
If the only modulation you’re familiar with is in your soft synths, read on…
Music theory 101: notes, intervals, scales and chords explained
The basic nuts and bolts of music from a piano roll perspective
"Rather naively, we thought we'd write a song that could be played by machines and all we'd have to do was press the button": The real reason New Order made Blue Monday, and the gear that powers it
The birth of a landmark track. Plus, learn how to recreate that famous Moog bassline
10 music theory tricks every producer and songwriter should know
Spruce up your chords and snazz up those scales with our simple but powerful techniques
Best online piano lessons: Apps, websites and software for piano players
Learn to master music theory and play your favourite piano songs over the internet from the comfort of your home
8 recording tactics to work smarter and save money in the studio
RECORDING WEEK 2023: With shopping sprees on hold, it’s time to beat the squeeze by looking within and maximising your current setup
10 things you need to know before you record your band
RECORDING WEEK 2023: Essential tips for tracking guitar, bass, drums and vocals live
