The Rode Two-Person Podcasting Bundle revolves around the RodeCaster Duo, which doubles as an audio interface but can also be set up as a standalone recorder and comes complete with with two PodMic dynamic microphones for crisp vocals and speech, two pairs of NTH-100 headphones, two PSA1+ broadcast microphone stands with an integrated cable management system, and two XLR cables.

Still the most-used DAW package around, whether you're an EDM producer or a self-recording musician, Ableton Live has already reached it's 12th incarnation. The Ableton Live 12 Suite edition is the biggest version in the line-up, and is still as aptly named as ever, since this software has been designed for exactly what it says: Live. Alongside the standard-issue recording functions and workflows, you get access to an array of tools designed for live music-making, or in Ableton-speak, clips can be created and triggered on the fly using an Ableton controller - a solid bonus for creative DJs and musicians alike. This is exactly the Ableton Live draw: electronic music that's actually interactive and anything but static.What's New in Ableton Live 12 Suite?The basic vibe and technical options of the new version are the same across the Intro, the Standard and the Suite editions. The difference between them lies in the included sounds and effects. Since this is the most extensive edition, Suite includes the whole deal - so much in fact, that it would be impossible to list everything here. But here's a quick glance at some of the highlights: an improved version of Operator comes included, granting access to a virtual FM synthesizer complete with subtractive potential. Meld is an all-new soft synth that packs fat sounds and MPE support (a must-have for sound-designers). Granulator III is another new addition, giving you everything you could ever want from granular synthesis. On the side, you also get some exclusive Ableton Packs, including the Lost and Found and Performance Pack. All in all, you're looking at over 71 gigabytes of packs, samples and loops, plus 58 audio effects and 14 MIDI effects, all navigated and manipulated via the smooth, signature Ableton interface.Version 12 AdditionsOther general version 12 updates include full support for screen readers, which is brilliant news for users with visual impairments. And, since searching for a sound was always a bit of a hassle, a smart search function that brings up sounds that come close to what you're already working with is a real time-saving tweak, as well as other great features like User Tagging, which even extends to the included Packs. And that's on top of the options to save search results and access your search history, so you can always find just the right things, whether you're in the studio or mid-set.

Still the most-used DAW package around, whether you're an EDM producer or a self-recording musician, Ableton Live has already reached its 12th incarnation. While you don't get the full mountains of sounds and effects that come with the Suite edition, Ableton Live 12 Standard still includes a pretty hefty chunk of it, and that's alongside the classic Ableton concept: a blend of two workflows, so alongside the standard-issue recording functions and features, you get access to an array of tools designed for live music-making, or in Ableton-speak, clips can be created and triggered on the fly using an Ableton controller - a solid bonus for creative DJs and musicians alike. This is exactly the Ableton Live draw: electronic music that's actually interactive and anything but static.What's New in Ableton Live 12 Standard?The basic vibe and technical options of the new version are the same across the Intro, the Standard and the Suite editions. The difference between them lies in the included sounds and effects. So, while Standard is a touch more trim than Suite, you're still getting more than enough to play with. What separates Standard from Intro is the inclusion of both the Golden Era Drums and Trap Drums libraries from Sound Oracle, as well as an array of virtual instruments like Electric Keyboards, Orchestral Strings, Session Drums (Club and Studio) and Synth Essentials. The list of everything that you get is actually too long to fit here, but be assured that it's long, and includes every essential and even non-essential to support pro-grade recordings and performances.Version 12 AdditionsOther general version 12 updates include full support for screen readers, which is brilliant news for users with visual impairments. And, since searching for a sound was always a bit of a hassle, a smart search function that brings up sounds that come close to what you're already working with is a real time-saving tweak, as well as other great features like User Tagging, which even extends to the included Packs. And that's on top of the options to save search results and access your search history, so you can always find just the right things, whether you're in the studio or mid-set.

Anyone who's at least tried to shape drum sounds with a synthesiser will be aware of what goes into it. First, you need to simulate a drumhead, then you need to simulate the strike, which involves a lot of messing around with oscillators, noise generators, envelopes and filters. Now, you can do it all with minimum fuss and via the comfort of your Eurorack wall courtesy of the Erica Synths Hexinverter Mutant Machine module. Doing away with the need to chain multiple envelopes, this unit neatly stacks up multiple little generators that have been specifically designed for sculpting percussive sounds. The original idea was to build something that could mimic the sound of a 909 snare, but quickly expanded to include a range of functions that supported other analogue drum sounds as well. As always, the Hexinverter Mutant Machine comes fully backed up by high-spec Erica Synths build quality.

The Chord Electronics HUGO 2 is one of the most advanced DAC/headphone amps that money can buy. So you can keep yours safe and properly shielded, Chord Electronics presents this matching leather cover. Lined with alcantara-style suede, this hand-crafted protective cover feels as deluxe as it looks and, since it's made for everyday use, provides full access to the controls and ports of the Hugo 2.

The Harrison/iCON 32Ci analogue microphone preamp/audio interface is based on the Harrison 32C preamps that have left their mark on some of the world's most critically acclaimed albums, including Michael Jackson, Paul Simon, AC/DC, Genesis, ELO and Led Zeppelin records. Outfitted with a12-in/12-out USB interface, the 32Ci captures the essence of the original 32C console and offers far-reaching performance and options.Transparent and PreciseBacked up by 70dB of gain, the built-in Harrison 32C preamps can handle high input levels and deliver warm, transparent sound with minimal noise across a broad frequency range. Meanwhile, the high-pass and low-pass filters offer an exceptionally wide range, while the Bump feature injects an extra dose of low-end punch at the push of a button. This pro-grade solution for immaculate audio recordings comes polished off with two discrete headphone outputs, ADAT connectivity, UNI for seamless live-streaming via the USB-OTG port, and a 129dB AD/DA dynamic range.Harrison Plug-In Bundle IncludedHoused in a durable aluminium chassis finished with a neat, vintage-inspired design, the 32Ci has been equipped with the iCON I/O PRO virtual mixer for fuss-free audio control audio, the option to use plugins within or outside your DAW, and for storing your favourite plugin chains as presets. Last but not least, this world-class audio interface comes with a collection of Harrison 32C Plugins, adding that rewowned Harrison sound to your set-up for a truly authentic, truly analogue in-the-box experience.

With the SPL Track One MK3 channel strip, record via natural-sounding preamps and leave yourself with minimal editing work to do during the mixing phase. This strip provides a set of two preamps: one for microphones and one for Hi-Z instruments like guitars and basses, and both boasting a pure and organic yet fast response.The SPL Track One MK3 ProcessorsBesides those high-grade preamps, a range of processors are supplied for subtly shaping the recorded sound. Via the built-in de-esser, the sharper edges can be rounded off, whether it's the harsher mouth-sounds of vocals, the fret-noise of a guitar, or even the shrillness of a crash cymbal. Meanwhile, the onboard compressor guarantees solid recording that sits perfectly in the mix and, if you're lucky enough to run two Track-One MK3 strips, the compressor can also be applied to stereo sources where, by linking the side-chains, you can prevent the stereo image from warping. The complete equalising section provides detailed frequency and gain controls and, to finish, the specialised Air band can be tweaked to rein in the highest frequencies as needed.

Small as it may be, the Golden Age Audio Pre-573 Premier shapes big, warm and old-school sound, just the Neve preamp it's based on. This premium preamp is compatible with 500 Series racks and features a filter and Air Boost function so you can knead the sound.

The hyper-popular fourth-gen KRK Rokit has gone into retirement, ushering in the age of the fifth-gen KRK Rokit 8 G5. Believe the hype: this fan-favourite should never, ever be underestimated. The 8 inch edition of the Rokit G5 is big, making it a more interesting pick for musicians, producers and writers working on bigger projects. Think orchestral work, EDM and anything that needs extra depth in the lower frequencies. Just make sure you have enough room for this monster, since more bass demands more space, otherwise you'll be looking at a warped mix that creates more issues than solutions.The KRK Rokit 8 G5 Studio MonitorAt 8 inches, you're getting wide audio reproduction backed up by a full-range frequency response simply because - you can't mix what you can't hear. The bass frequencies reach down as far as 32 Hz (-10 dB) or 42 Hz (+/-3 dB), which is more than enough - if you want to go deeper, you would have to step up a price-bracket. In essence, the Rokit 8 keeps this kind of frequency range within reach for the starter studio, where the budget makes a difference. However, if you're considering going this big, we recommend looking at some acoustic treatment, like absorber panels and bass traps and maybe some monitor stands, so you're sure that you're getting the best performance out of your Rokit.High-End OptionsThis monitor comes with three different operating modes: Mix, Focus and Create. The Mix setting is ideal for the mixing phase, which will probably be the most-used mode. The Focus setting, meanwhile is an ultra-valuable yet more specialised mode that emphasises the mid-frequencies, where the more critical instruments in your production are likely to sit, so it's usually the area of your mix that requires the most attention. To finish, the Create setting supports more casual listening, so is perfect for the writing process (the bit before the more critical mixing phase). Another handy feature is the bank of EQ settings which, in earlier times, you wouldn't even touch since neutral sound during mixing used to be considered a must, but because more and more producers are aware of the acoustic colouring of the space they work in, some EQ settings are pretty useful when it comes to compensating for any less-than-optimal acoustics.

Complement an existing pair of Kali Audio LP6 or LP8 studio monitors with the Kali Audio WS-12 V2 subwoofer and you're assured of an extra-fat bottom-end. This second-gen 12-inch bass bin can even be used as a PA sub and, while it doesn't look much different from the original WS-12 apart from the added distance rod mounting flange, under the hood, several things have been polished up, including the signal-to-noise ratio and the internal cooling system. If you're already mixing with a set of Kali Audio LP Series monitors, this upgraded sub should definitely be your go-to.

Whether you're a singer-songwriter, gamer, live-streamer or podcaster, with the Steinberg IXO22 audio interface you're assured of crystal-clean sound thanks to IXO preamps and premium converters. This 2-in/2-out interface doesn't just support up to 24-bit/192 kHz audio, but can be slotted into a backpack and set up for recording on-location. Best of all, this sleek little USB-C audio interface doesn't exactly cost a fortune. Loopback Function for Podcasts and Live-Streams If you've made a podcast or done a live-stream before, you no doubt know that it's important that your audience can hear the same audio that you're hearing. With the Steinberg IXO22, there's no need for complicated workarounds involving virtual devices to properly set up your stream or podcast. The interface has been equipped with a dedicated loopback function so you can effortlessly route your in-game sound, music or other system audio back into the interface and work it into your live-stream or recording. The result is a streamlined, fuss-free workflow. Full iOS CompatibilityThe IXO22 comes complete with the Cubasis DAW app for iOS, allowing you to record audio wherever you want. Simply connect the audio interface to your iPhone or iPad using a USB-C cable or Lightning to USB Camera Adapter kit (not included) and you're ready to record.

With the IXO Podcast Pack, Steinberg hook you up with everything you need to start a podcast in one shot, including the software. This bundle is built on the compact IXO audio interface, which supports up to 24-bit/192 kHz audio and has been loaded with an excellent preamp so you can plug in the included ST-M01 condenser microphone and get treated to crisp vocals. In addition to the audio interface and microphone, you get a pop filter, a desktop microphone stand, a cable pack, and a copy of Steinberg's podcast creation and upload software, WaveLab Cast.