14 days

Review: Perc's clearly a busy man these days; with his Perc Trax empire currently expanded to include two sub labels (Perc Trax Ltd and Submit) the revered UK industrial techno producer has joined forces with an equally respected Stateside counterpart on another label. The self explanatory AX&P; operation sees Sonic Groove's Adam X align with Perc for a series of intermittent studio collaborations, with the decision to release under this joint banner due to the packed schedules of their respective labels. It's a collaboration that's apparently been in gestation for two years and it shows on this superb debut three track 12" AMPERE & OHM which brings out the best of both. Lead track "Coulomb" is a throbbing mass of tunnelling, weighty techno with sparse percussion snapping away sadistically as proceedings rumble menacingly forth. On the B Side "Dines" is wound tighter, unfurling with deadly precision into a worming DJ tool that takes on increasingly psychedelic qualities as it progresses, whilst "Joule" ensures the relentless nature is kept up but offers a more rhythmic based insight into the AP&X; combination.

Notes: The EIE I/O is a tabletop USB audio interface perfectly tailored for your project and portable studio setups. This four-in, four-out (4x4) device enables you on Mac and PC-based systems to record up to 24-bit resolution into virtually any DAW, recording or performance software. The EIE I/O also houses three convenient USB inputs, in addition to its main USB port, enabling you to connect controllers, hard drives or any other peripheral when native ports on a computer may be limited. The compact recording interface contains high-quality components including nickel-plated input jacks, analog-style VU meters and a rugged aluminum casing for a powerful, professional, portable audio solution.

Each channel of the EIE I/O has a XLR 14" combo jack, dedicated sturdy, gain-pots and Mic/Line/Guitar switches. The EIE I/O features four discrete-design preamplifiers with 48V phantom power for use with virtually any microphone. Individual 14" Nickel-plated jacks found on the back of EIE I/O provide you with channel inserts for processing audio signals externally. You can monitor sessions on multiple sets of studio monitors using the four 14" balanced outputs, which are also Nickel-plated. Both pairs of outputs can be monitored visually with the high-quality, analog VU meters providing classic features with modern style. For remote tracking and alternative playback, the EIE I/O has a 1/4" TRS headphone output. High quality analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog converters ensure that every detail of your session or performance gets captured and played back faithfully.

The EIE I/O sends and receives four audio channels on a single USB cable for simple, universal interface to a computer. The three additional USB ports allow EIE I/O to function as a hub as well, bridging other MIDI controllers and hard-drives to the computer. The USB interface is class compliant for plug-and-play operation with Mac OS X and Windows XP, Vista and 7. The EIE I/O features traditional MIDI In and Out jacks for playing and controlling software with keyboard and pad controllers, workstations, and other MIDI-compatible instruments.

Notes: The Alesis Control Hub is a professional MIDI interface with audio playback that empowers you to create anywhere. Made for traveling musicians and mobile producers, Control Hub enables you to play, record, and perform with your favorite MIDI keyboards, drum machines, virtual instruments, and more. Its sleek and easy-to-use design fits in your gig or laptop bag and leaves an ultra-small footprint in any recording or performing setup. Plus, a single USB connection to your Mac or PC provides power to Control Hub and plug-and-play connectivity; no power supply or additional drivers required. Control Hub can also connect to your iPad and other devices with the Apple iPad Camera Connection Kit (sold separately) for even more performance and production flexibility.

Compact, portable, and completely bus powered, the Control Hub is the ideal on-the-go interface. Equipped with both a MIDI In and a MIDI Out jack, the Control Hub is the perfect MIDI Interface for working with workstation keyboards, digital pianos, drum machines and modules, MIDI controllers, sequencers, and other MIDI gear. There is even a customizable foot pedal/footswitch input that can be assigned in your software!

In addition to the two-way MIDI connection, Control Hub also features a pair of audio outputs for monitoring the audio playback of your Mac or PC on stage, in the studio, or on the go. A headphone output with a dedicated volume control knob is also provided for private recording and practicing. Finally, a main-level control allows you to adjust the global volume, so you can record and perform at the optimal sound level.

Review: Erol Alkan's 2005 Bugged Out mix was a gateway release for many, soundtracking the entrance into club land, yet also introducing these virgin ears to more esoteric strains of music via the accompanying Bugged In Selection. Some seven years on, Alkan and the evergreen club brand have revisited the concept with a second edition, and like the inaugural release, the Phantasy Sound boss's ever lasting love for the vinyl format has seen a selection of tracks make the translation to this double vinyl release. Six tracks from the Bugged Out mix appear, with the Italo disco of Amin Peck brushing shoulders with Model 500 and an Obi Blanche edit of the Ron Hardy classic "Sensation", while the Bugged In Selection sees some psyche-folk fare from Buffalo Springfield and Space Lady among other gems.

Notes: ZED-6 has been created for musicians, singer / songwriters and venues seeking Allen & Heath's renowned build and audio quality in a compact, portable format. Whether it's bouncing ideas around at home, performing live or recording tracks to share on YouTube and Soundcloud, ZED-6 is a versatile companion for every step of the creative journey. 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 ZED-6 comes with a pair of Guitar DI high impedance inputs, allowing guitars to be plugged straight into the mixer without the hassle and expense of carrying separate DI boxes.

ZED-6 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 MusiQ EQ controls have been carefully calibrated for responsiveness and precision, making it easy to shape and enhance each musical source.

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.

ZED-6 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.

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: Fresh from her LP with leftfield French beatsmith Debruit, Alsarah joins The Nubatones for an equally unique lesson in timeless funk. Munching through cultures and continents with alluring grace, the fusion of eastern and western sounds here is instantly captivating and wholly of its own. From the bluesy guitar slaps of "Nuba Noutou" and "Yanas Baridou" to the lolloping ghostliness and poignant harmonies of "Bilad Aldahb" via the heartfelt croons and gentle accordion squeezes of "Wad Alnuba", this is an exceptional listening experience. Highly recommended.

Notes: - Carefully cleans dust off vinyl records

- Ensures a static-free playback

- Black velvet covered handle including stand

- Can also be used for Schellack records

Review: Following on from their collaborative album Indeed which dropped in 2011, Oren Ambarchi and Jim O'Rourke join forces once more to deliver the two-track epic Behold for Editions Mego. Fans of this pairing will know what to expect, as daring soundscapes fill with a multitude of sound sources carefully processed into a simmering whole, stretched out over long form running times for the ultimate immersive experience. "Behold One" revels in suspended animation as its textures very gently rise and fall, while "Behold Two" takes a more lively route towards a clanging, droning crescendo driven by organic and electronic matter.

Notes: The Bubbletron by ADJ is a smaller lightweight bubble machine that features a bubble production rate comparable to larger machines. It's EZ-Access front fluid tank makes the Bubbletron easy to use and easy to clean.

Make bubbles apart of any show anywhere with the extremely portable Bubbletron Bubble Machine from American DJ. You'll have a exciting bubble display in no time, whether at home, at the club, bar, or on stage.

You'll be amazed at the bubble output rate of the Bubbletron as well as their high quality and velocity. Especially when coupled with lasers, bubbles and be a super exciting addition to any style of show. With the easy to use features, durability, and portability of the Bubbletron Bubble Machine from ADJ, you won't have anything to worry about. Just turn it on, let it run, and have some fun.

Notes: Compact performance switch controller for generating triggers and gates. Used manually it provides you with triggers, momentary gates or latched/toggle gates, selectable per each of the five channels.In a sequential context it is a pattern generator with five channels which generates 32 step long sequences which are tapped with your fingers. Patterns can be saved, recalled and chained.

Launch Codes has two primary modes:
The Control Mode is a manual mode where you use the buttons to generate gates and triggers. Gates can be temporary or toggling.
The Sequencer Mode turns the module into a clocked 32-step sequencer with five tracks, reset, performance mutes, a special CV mode and the possiblity to chain patterns.
Sequences are entered by playing the buttons; both gates and trigger can be generated. Triggers are played immediately but recorded in a quantized fashion.

Options, selectable with the Opt button:
- MODE: control mode, sequencer mode with reset or special CV sequencer mode
- LENGTH: pattern length, per pattern; either 8, 16 or 32 steps. When prolonging the sequence length Launch Codes automatically fills the pattern by doubling the data.
- GENERATE: creates variations of the loaded pattern when pressing the button. A copy of the original pattern is loaded into the undo memory so you can recall it anytime.
- LOAD: press ths button for one second to load all saved settings and sequencers. This overwrites all temporary settings.
- SAVE: press this button for a second to save all sequences, mute states, pattern chains and settings.

- CV sequencer: the reset socket now acts as a CV input which modifies the behavoiur of the sequencer:
- CV Step Generate: At 0V the sequencer plays as usual but the higher the CV gets 8max. 5V), the higher the chance of random step generation.
- CV Scrub: The CV can address steps within the sequence, even in addition to the running clock.
- CV Freeze Loop: A CV above 5V freezes the sequence and starts looping it from this point on.

Special settings: manual reset, deactivating the automatic pattern data doubling, selection of the standard CV sequencer mode (CV Step Generate, CV Scrub or CV Freeze Loop).

Review: While many avid Mulatu fans will no doubt already own a copy of the master's first - and perhaps most ingenious - work from 1972, one can certainly rely on the mighty Strut to put together a fine reissue. Of note, unlike the many versions which have been retrained by Worthy Records over the years, this new take includes many little extras that are special enough to tempt even the most munitioned Mulatu collectors; aside from seven tracks from Mulatu Of Ethiopia, an utterly inimitable psychedelic jazz journey that defined Ethiopia's entire sound in relation to the genre, this new version includes a whole selection of previously unheard cuts. There are mono album mixes of all the original tunes plus a wide selection of 'takes' from the original recording session, so this LP should have no problem in working up a bit of hype and hysteria from the original-pressing-junkies. This is an essential, highly recommended!

Notes: Audio Anatomy Deluxe Inner Sleeves, poly lined with double centre hole - just the item you need to preserve your prized vinyl LPs.

These inner sleeves are designed to protect your records from dust, static build-up and scratching when removing discs from their original paper sleeves.

To prevent contamination, it's good practice to exchange inner sleeves after having cleaned/washed your vinyl.

Use Audio Anatomy Deluxe Inner Sleeves for long lasting quality playback of your vinyl records.

Notes: Audio Anatomy Deluxe Inner Sleeves, poly lined with double centre hole - just the item you need to preserve your prized vinyl LPs.

These inner sleeves are designed to protect your records from dust, static build-up and scratching when removing discs from their original paper sleeves.

To prevent contamination, it's good practice to exchange inner sleeves after having cleaned/washed your vinyl.

Use Audio Anatomy Deluxe Inner Sleeves for long lasting quality playback of your vinyl records.

Notes: - Removes harmful dust and contaminants from your vinyl records.

- Conductive synthetic fibres help to dissipate static.

- Increase the lifetime of your cartridge and improve your listening experience by reducing surface noise.

Notes: 10g headshell aluminium die cast body - black finish

Notes: 10g headshell magnesium body

- Threaded headshell avoiding in use of nuts when fitting cartridge

- 7 pairs of installation screws (3mm, 5mm, 6mm, 8mm, 10mm, 12 mm and 14mm)

- Includes gold plated terminals quad wire

Review: Early in 2014, Highlife regulars Auntie Flo and Esa traveled to Cuba to play at the country's biggest music festival. While there, they hooked up with a string of local vocalists and musicians to lay down the first installment of Highlife's World Series. Predictably, it's something of a triumph, with both artists gleefully joining the dots between Afro-influenced drum machine rhythms, traditional Cuban instrumentation and the kind of skewed synths that are such a feature of their work. Auntie Flo's effort is a 13-minute epic featuring the rambling vocals of Eric Eleindro and some snaking trumpet action. It's Esa who steals the show, though, with a dreamy, Balearic-minded cut that sounds like a contemporary update of Hugh Masekela's mid 1980s work.

Notes: *** B STOCK - Box opened, product in perfect working order ***

Active sub cabinet with 8" (20cm) reinforced driver and internal amplifier with active filter circuit. Inputs are on twin RCA or from a stereo amplifier on spring terminals (between amp and mid-top speakers).

Cutoff frequency and Gain rotary controls can be adjusted as required.

"Auto Off" function deactivates the amplifier when no incoming signal is detected to conserve energy.

Notes: ***B-STOCK: Box opened, product in perfect working order***


A compact digital stereo amplifier capable of delivering up to a powerful 85W max. per channel output with very little distortion.

Built-in Bluetooth connectivity makes this amplifier incredibly easy to use and ideal for home multimedia.

Also great for commercial installations where there is confined space.

Notes: ***B-STOCK: Box opened, product unused and in perfect working condition***

MPX16 is an advanced sample player with sixteen backlit velocity- and pressure-sensitive pads. With it, musicians, producers and performers can trigger sound samples stored on standard SD or SDHC cards. Insert the SD card, assign its contents to any of the MPX16's pads, and go. At home in the studio as part of a producer's rig or on stage as a solution for triggering critical sounds, MPX16 is a compact sampling powerhouse.

While the hyper-responsive trigger pads and backlit display make tapping into your sample library a simple task, the integrated audio inputs empower you to add to it. Two 14-inch (6.3mm) jacks let you connect your studio gear or other sound sources to the MPX16 for sample capture. Onboard editing tools provide sample trimming and pad assignment for immediate synergy into a production or performance. Use the headphone jack to monitor your captures, or send the audio to a mixer, monitors, a recording interface, etc using the 14-inch main outs. A built-in mic provides immediate sample capture for those times when inspiration strikes; a dedicated Record Gain knob ensures you get it right.

MPX16's flexibility goes beyond pad-triggered audio playback and capture. The full-size rear-panel USB port lets you drag & drop samples from your computer and even use the MPX16 as an SD card reader/writer. The USB connection also provides a pipeline for MIDI data, enabling sample triggering from your DAW or computer-based sequencer. A 5-pin MIDI input means SD samples may be triggered from any MIDI-enabled gear such as keyboards, pad controllers, synths and electronic drums. A 5-pin MIDI output lets the MPX16 function as a dynamic pad controller. Layering wide-ranging sound sources during live and studio performance just got easier.

With the included Akai Pro File Loader software (free download), managing computer-based samples and moving them to the SD card is intuitive. This software also converts sound files into .WAV format for seamless playback on the MPX16. Samples may also be edited from the onboard sample processor; tuning, pad groups, envelopes, sample trimming, panning and volume are tweakable right from the MPX16's top-panel controls.

MPX16's compact footprint means it is at home on a tabletop, music stand, lap, tray-table or in your backpack en route to the studio. Solid Akai Pro design and industry-leading pads ensure it stands up to the daily use you expect it to see.
SD and SDHC cards sold separately.

Review: Kornel Kovacs, Axel Boman and Petter Nordkvist Studio Barnhaus label can usually be relied upon to deliver the sort of curiously left-of-centre deep house that offers more than mere straight-up dancefloor thrills. That's certainly the case on the latest slab of eccentricity from label regular Baba Stiltz. While "Transit" itself is the epitome of eccentric - think vintage acid house fused with early '80s New York electro and dreamy electronica - it's the jazzy "Principles", all lolloping rhythms and fiercely cut-up rhythms that really impresses. Even odder is "Principles Oh So Fresh", which dispenses with the beats and concentrates on the original's chiming music box melodies.

Review: On previous outings, Lars Bartkhun has expertly shuffled between techno-soul, dreamy deep house, and the kind of luscious, club-ready electronica that defies easy categorization. On the impeccable "Massai (Part 1)" he subtly doffs a cap to Early Sounds Recordings types Mystic Jungle and Nu Guinea, melding jazzy guitars, dreamy chords and vibrant synthesizer lines to a loose, Afro-influenced jazz-funk groove. At nearly 11 minutes in length, it's something of an epic, but one that stands up to repeat listens (it does ebb, flow and build rather magnificently). Turn to the flipside for the warm and gently unfurling ambient house bliss of "Massai (Part 2)", which sounds like the kind of thing you'd find tucked away on a DFC release from 1989.

Review: Originally Recorded live at Music Laboratories, New York, September 29, 1982 and eventually released 27 years later, William Basinski's 92982 receives a vinyl re-issue courtesy of the Temporary Residence label. Spread across two slabs of vinyl, the four separate parts to 92902 see Basinski teasing out ethereal, mesmerising loops from a reel to reel in all their decayed and degraded glory. It's all drenched in delay and reverb that works in the same tradition of his seminal LP, The Disintegration Loops . The truly haunting dark ambience of "92982.2" in particular is essential listening and a moment you won't forget, complete with eerie field recordings of NYC.