Step one: How to start using VCV Rack, the free modular software

So, you’re ready to try a free and open platform for modular synths – even if you’re new to modular. Here’s how to get started.

Arturia’s Fairlight, Clavinet, DX-7, and Buchla Easel are each a steal

Arturia now offer these classic instruments individually – with another 50% off through January 10 – and have video tutorials to teach you how to use them.

Roland gets you going on their DJ controllers, Serato with free samples

The Roland-Serato combination stakes out a clear niche: adding live techniques to DJ routines. Now some free sounds and videos will get you started.

Have yourself some very procedural holidays in your browser

Holiday greeting cards: you can buy them in a supermarket. You can draw them in crayon. Or you can custom-code a generative interactive Web greeting.

UltraKick is an obsessive bass drum synth for Max for Live [Hands-on]

You’ve seen kick drums that emulate the 808 and such, or synths with a couple knobs. UltraKick goes way past that, for complete sound control.

CDM Mixes: Sofia Kourtesis takes us dreaming in wintry skies

Year-end lists, while valuable, can blur into vague hype, dizzying lists of artists and tracks. Let’s start by spending some time listening.

Long-term hands-on: Razer Blade 14” as creative laptop

Not just for gamers any more: Razer’s high-spec Blade laptop holds promise for music making, too. I’ve taken one for an extended test to see how it holds up.

Quick tip: Roland SH-01A + TR-08 trigger sequencing fun

A defining feature of the original SH-101 was its ability to take trigger ins as clock. Here’s what that means and how to use it on the new Roland SH-01A.

Maschine with audio arrives; here’s how to get the most of it

Maschine’s Audio module has arrived, with looping and time stretching. And that makes the perfect time to look at some new ways of playing Maschine.

This free phaser from NI is a must, even if you don’t like phasers

Native Instruments has a free phaser plug-in called Phasis as a holiday special – and, wow, definitely don’t skip this one.