Features
Tech: The Chosen Ones
The top new widgets, bits and gadgets for producers
Best new book: Making Music
Those of you who remember the pre YouTube tutorials age will shudder at the thought of Ableton's new book (pictured above). But this is not a return to the days of beating your head against a manual. Instead, Making Music is an insightful and enlightening book for the budding producer, not just aimed at Live fans.
£17.87, www.ableton.com
Best budget Serato controller: Pioneer DDJ-SB2
Not everyone lusts after the latest mixer; some just want something that does the job at an afterparty – and that's where the DDJ SB2 comes in. Aimed at Serato fans, this controller deck has performance pads and effects controls should you want to get technical; Quantized Pad Trans Beat allows you to chop the volume in time to your BPM.
£189, www.gear4music.com
Best new production tool: Stems
Thanks to an NI initiative, most key online music retailers including Beatport and Juno are to offer the option of buying some of their catalogue as stems. According to NI, stems "enhance creative possibilities for DJs, producers and live performers". Keen to make your own? Fear not, NI has announced free software.
Best monitors: Genelec 8000 Series
Genelecs may be small but they pack a punch. Smart Active Monitoring in the 8000 series means they'll automatically adjust to suit your room, thanks to the measuring mic and software they ship with. You can even create separate calibrations for when you're in your seat or on a couch at the back of the room.
£589/£959, www.juno.co.uk
