This third volume of Universal Synthesizer Interface delves further into early MIDI sequencing software for personal computers, focusing on Intelligent Music Software founded by Joel Chadabe in 1984. In a short period of time (1986-1990) Intelligent Music published a series of MIDI sequencing software titles that would have rippling effects throughout the music world: M, Jam Factory, UpBeat, MidiDraw, Ovaltune, Realtime, as well as an unreleased first version of Miller Puckette’s Max. These programs were a reflection of Chadabe’s desire to create interactive and intelligent algorithmic tools for home computers. Intelligent compositional tools had been floating around for decades in mainframe computer labs, but they had largely only been accessible to people working in academic or corporate laboratories. With the birth of Intelligent Music, these tools became available to anyone with a home studio. As the personal computers of this era had become less expensive and more accessible, they had also grown exponentially in processing power and seeming intelligence. In the music press from this time, we find the same two words used again and again to describe algorithmic computer systems: smart and intelligent. The tone of such articles may seem quaint by today’s standards, when AI and algorithmic control underpin so much of our technology, but the question of machine intelligence remains. Universal Synthesizer Interface VOL III Focuses exclusively on one of the more obscure of Intelligent Music’s software creations - UpBeat: The Intelligent Rhythm Sequencer, released in 1987, and hailed by reviewers of the time as “the world’s best drum machine.”
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Recommended equipment and accessories
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Technics SL-1500C Turntable
Features a direct-drive motor, a high-precision tonearm, and a premium MM cartridge, delivering exceptional sound quality
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Audioengine A2 Plus
Precision-engineered 2.75-inch woofers and a 0.75-inch silk dome tweeter, featuring built-in DAC and Bluetooth connectivity for seamless integration.
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Pro-Ject Debut Carbon EVO
Featuring a one-piece carbon fiber tonearm, precision-tuned motor, and a heavy steel platter with TPE damping, it ensures superior stability and sound quality.
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Edifier R1280DB Powered Speakers
Combining classic design with modern Bluetooth connectivity, built-in amplification and versatile inputs, these speakers deliver rich, balanced sound.
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Ortofon 2M Blue Premounted
Mounted on the SH-4 Black Headshell, this setup delivers exceptional clarity, dynamic range, and accurate sound reproduction.
Featured Upcoming Vinyl
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Signs of the Swarm To Rid Myself Of Truth (Silver)
Century Media Int'l
August 29, 2025 -
Field Medic Surrender Instead (Bone/Red Splatter)
Alternate Side
August 8, 2025 -
Orianthi Some Kind of Feeling
WOODWARD AVENUE RECORDS
September 19, 2025 -
Oasis (What's The Story) MORNING GLORY? (30Th Anniversary Deluxe Edition) [3xLP]
Big Brother Recordings Limited
October 3, 2025 -
Grateful Dead Blues For Allah (50th Anniversary)
Grateful Dead Production
September 12, 2025 -
John Butler PRISM [2xLP]
Independent
September 5, 2025 -
Amorphis Borderland [2xLP]
Reigning Phoenix Music America, LLC
September 26, 2025 -
Lola Young I'm Only F**king Myself (The 'Basic B*tch' Edition Nude Pink)
Island
September 19, 2025 -
Cardi B AM I THE DRAMA? (Amazon Exclusive)
Atlantic
September 19, 2025 -
Old Dominion Barbara
Sony Music Nashville
August 22, 2025 -
Maroon 5 Love Is Like (Yellow Marble)
Interscope/Geffen/A&M
August 15, 2025 -
John Prine Lost Dogs + Mixed Blessings [2xLP]
Oh Boy
September 12, 2025 -
Richard Ashcroft Natural Rebel (Blue)
Bmg Int'l
September 26, 2025 -
Mansur Brown Rihla
Amai Records
September 5, 2025