** 0.5 page review /387 words ** The Studio In A Box Book ** MARKBOOK.GIF here ** Jonathan Adams discovers a studio instead of a jack... The Studio In A Box book is written by Atari Computing contributor Mark Wherry and is aimed at anyone interested in "desktop music". The premise for the book is the idea that a computer, or to use Mark's metaphor - a box, can be used for all aspects of music production, from recording to mastering and distribution. The book is clearly targeted at the Mac/PC audience, but it should also appeal to Atari enthusiasts with a general interest in music technology or anyone looking to either add to or replace their current set-up with a Mac or PC based system - Mark's background in the Atari scene makes him the ideal candidate to provide the information so you can make an informed choice. The opening chapter takes you through various computer specifications, explaining what they do and why they are of relevance to a computer-based musician. A detailed look at additional audio cards with an explanation of the features and why you might need them is also included, as is a guide to the various software plug-in real-time effects available. CDR recording is also discussed, as is the Internet in a musical context, particularly for those interested in formats for distributing your music on-line or collaborating with others. My favourite chapter was titled Rising Technologies and this covers the latest developments such as USB, FireWire, software synthesisers, ReWire, Emagic's EASI and AMT technologies and Steinberg's ASIO 2 and VST 2 specifications and their next generation Nuendo system. If you're not clear what I'm on about here and you're interested now's the time to order your copy! The Studio In A Box Book can be ordered directly from Mark, from Club Cubase, or via the mail order department of Sound On Sound, a leading UK magazine for hi-tech music recording, with the added benefit you can order a copy from their on-line store (details in boxout). ** /product boxout ** The Studio In A Box Book Author: Mark Wherry ISBN 0 9535509 0 7 Publisher Studio In A Box 4 Fernpark Close, Topsham Road, Exeter, Devon, EX2 6AW siab@rvmp.co.uk www.rvmp.co.uk/siab Order online: http://www.sospubs.co.uk Price ś8.95 Pros Up to date and packed with details Cons Not aimed at dedicated Atari-only musicians 87% ** /product boxout **