Computer / Software

Transform your samples into soundscapes with Soniccouture’s new software instrument.

Apple’s M‑series Macs continue to power ahead. We benchmark the latest Mac mini, MacBook Pro and Mac Studio models for audio performance.

Based on cutting‑edge psychoacoustic research, Virtuoso v2 aims to deliver for headphone users the most convincing emulation of ‘speakers in a room’ to date.

Max 9 introduces Ableton devices and brings a host of welcome updates and improvements.

Native Instruments put the pedal to the very modern metal with their latest Session Guitarist title.

The latest addition to Arturia’s ever‑growing range of vintage instruments is a recreation of the celebrated Elka Synthex.

NI bring some light relief to the Schema concept.

Sample Logic rev their own engine, cinematic style.

Divisimate 2 brings a host of improvements and new features to Nextmidi’s orchestration software.

Can NI make Komplete even more complete?

Rating: 4.5/5 Stars. This library is Christian Henson’s attempt to combine the Yorkshire brass tradition with the sound of his favourite film noir soundtracks.

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5/5 Stars. MusicLab's new virtual instrument samples the Godin Multiac Spectrum SA, a semi‑solid‑bodied hybrid that shares the qualities of both electric and acoustic guitars.

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5/5 Stars. Disco Studio Strings offers a lush and authentic recreation of ’70s disco and funk string sections.

Drum Workshop bring their considerable experience of drum hardware to the virtual world.

NI’s long‑established software sampler gains a raft of new features and other improvements.

Expressive E’s idiosyncratic synth sequel puts MPE front and centre.

The Berlin samplemeisters link up with a Hollywood film composer to create two major string collections.

Synplant 2 takes a more horticultural approach to synthesis than you may be used to...

Do you tend to find remote collaboration projects disorganised and chaotic? This subscription‑based service aims to provide a neat solution.

Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ 4/5 Stars. DreamWaves is based on the sounds of electric pianos that have been modified and processed to make them sound ambient, ethereal, lo‑fi — and in some instances mildly disturbing.

Trigger physically modelled percussion sounds with your fingers.