Studio Equipment Recommendations September 2016

Review: A modern classic. Superb little semi-modular monosynth in its own right, but comes alive when paired with other modular gear. A great option for beginners and experienced synth users alike.

Supplier's notes:
The 0-COAST is a single voice patchable synthesizer. Its name reflects the fact that it utilizes techniques from both the Moog and Buchla paradigms (aka "East Coast," and "West Coast," due to their locations), but is loyal to neither and thus implements "no coast synthesis."

While the 0-COAST utilizes classic modular synthesis techniques, it's designed to operate with or without the use of patch cables. The necessary connections have been made from circuit to circuit so it operates as an expressive, musical MonoSynth. Using only the MIDI controller of your choice you could apply new timbres to your existing musical forms!

Using the included Patch Cables you could get more scientific, experimenting with new ways to wire up the circuits. You might even forgo MIDI altogether, disappearing into a cloud of analog FM induced Sidebands and harmonics scattered around a single fundamental drone that has nothing to do with any form of music you've ever known.

Review: Hybrid compact mixer / 4x4 USB interface:
ZEDi-10 combines the robustness and hands-on control of an analogue mixer with a high quality 4 x 4 USB interface, making it a perfect all-round choice for musicians, recording artists and venues. Whether it's bouncing ideas around at home, performing live or recording tracks to share on YouTube and Soundcloud, ZEDi-10 is a versatile companion for every step of the creative journey.

The studio quality, 24-bit / 96kHz, 4×4 USB interface makes it easy to capture stunning multitrack recordings direct from the mixer to a Mac or PC without the need for any extra equipment. Featuring the new GSPre boutique preamp design, developed from the revered GS-R24 studio recording console, the ZED boasts exceptionally low noise and massive headroom, with a signature analogue warmth and depth. Guitarists will be pleased to know that two of ZEDi-10's mono channels feature Guitar DI high impedance inputs, allowing guitars to be plugged straight into the mixer without the hassle and expense of carrying separate DI boxes.

Mixer + USB interface:
ZEDi-10 offers the best of both worlds, incorporating a studio quality 4 in / 4 out, 24-bit/96kHz USB audio interface for hassle-free multitrack recording and playback to/from a Mac or PC, or to an iOS device using the iOS camera kit. The USB output source can be set up in several different ways to match your workflow.

Cubase LE Music production software included:
ZEDi-10 comes with the acclaimed Cubase LE software. Cubase LE offers powerful yet easy-to-use software tools for audio recording, editing, MIDI sequencing and mixing. Its vast range of proven editing and sequencing tools can be used for a large range of music styles and areas of application. From singers and songwriters recording vocal lines to rock bands jamming in their rehearsal room, Cubase LE is as easy as it gets - with outstanding audio quality as well as time-saving recording and editing functionality.

Cubasis LE mobile music production app:
The mixer also comes bundled with the Cubasis LE app. Cubasis LE is the compact version of Steinberg's streamlined, multi-touch sequencer for the iPad, providing the same look and feel of its bigger brother Cubasis. Specially designed for quick and easy operation, Cubasis LE makes recording, editing and mixing a breeze.

Exceptional audio quality:
ZEDi-10 features an exceptional new preamp design, created by analogue guru, Mike Griffin and developed from his highly acclaimed GS-R24 studio recording console. Known as GSPre, the preamps deliver exceptionally low noise and massive headroom, and the warmth and depth that Allen & Heath's analogue range is famous for. For tonal shaping, the precise 3 band MusiQ EQ controls have been carefully calibrated for responsiveness and precision, making it easy to shape and enhance each musical source.

Road tough:
All ZED mixers are designed and built to Allen & Heath's legendary touring grade standards to ensure a long life in the toughest environments. All channels are on individual, vertical circuit boards and all rotary controls are secured to the front panel with a steel nut to guard against impact damage.

Made for guitars:
ZEDi-10 comes with two Guitar DI high impedance jack inputs, allowing guitars to be plugged straight into the mixer without the need for DI boxes. That's one less piece of gear to buy, carry and set up.

It's an Allen & Heath:
Allen & Heath has been a trusted name in professional audio since 1969. The ZED technology advances, but the commitment to audio excellence and build quality endures.

Review: The Sherman Filterbank 2 is a musical instrument in clear differentiation from the simple sound shaping of an "ordinary" filter. With two very complex filters that can be used in parallel or serial mode, LFO, envelopes, rich distortion and various modular linking options, Filterbank 2 can generate a rich beat from the simple noise of a loose cable. The device is the right answer for unlimited sound shaping applications once you understand it. In an unusual housing and with a remarkably clear manual, the Filterbank 2 is unexpectedly functional and also extremely beautiful.