Computer Music Issue 280 Extra Quality [verified] 〈2025-2026〉

The issue introduced a technique called “parallel upward compression combined with soft clipping.” Instead of smashing your drum bus, set a compressor to a 1.5:1 ratio with a slow attack (30ms) and a fast release (50ms). Mix this 30% with the dry signal. This yields punch without the "pumping" artifact—the definition of extra quality.

Instead of heavily compressing a transient-rich sound (like a snare drum), blend a heavily compressed duplicate track with the uncompressed original. This preserves the impact of the initial transient while bringing out the body and sustain. Mastering for Modern Streaming Standards

(the producer behind the hit "Switch"), where he shares workflow tips and gear insights. Artist Interviews: Features with Gary Numan and a tribute to legendary drummer James Gadson MusicRadar Included "Extra Quality" Software & Content computer music issue 280 extra quality

Most musicians download magazine issues for the loop libraries. Standard issues typically offer 44.1kHz/16-bit loops. Issue 280’s Extra Quality, however, provided:

In the sprawling ecosystem of digital music production, few phrases carry as much weight—or as much deceptive simplicity—as "Extra Quality." When attached to a landmark issue like Computer Music Issue 280, it ceases to be mere marketing jargon. Instead, it becomes a manifesto, a technical challenge, and a philosophical anchor. But what does "Extra Quality" truly mean in an era where 24-bit/192kHz audio is commonplace, yet listeners routinely stream lossy files over Bluetooth earbuds? The issue introduced a technique called “parallel upward

Computer Music Issue 280 represented a high-water mark for producers looking to move beyond standard loop-based production into the realm of deep sound design. The issue, often cited as an "Extra Quality" edition by readers due to its robust plugin bundle, focused heavily on the creation of Ambient, Drone, and Cinematic music.

"Make a Track in an Hour," which includes 24 step-by-step tutorials covering genres like bassline, drum & bass, hip-hop, trap, UK garage, and country. Exclusive Masterclass: A video producer masterclass with Instead of heavily compressing a transient-rich sound (like

Each issue of Computer Music is known for its "CM Suite" of software, but issue 280 includes a particularly robust selection of 100% royalty-free samples aimed at professional-grade production:

These keep all frequencies perfectly aligned in time, eliminating phase smear. They are mandatory when EQing multi-mic setups (like acoustic drums) or when making surgical cuts in the low-end during mastering. However, they introduce "pre-ringing," which can soften sharp transients. 2. Dynamic Contrast and Gain Staging

October 23, 2023 Subject: Content Overview and Technical Assessment of Computer Music Magazine, Issue 280