Oliver Thompson
Oliver practically grew up in Leicester's record shops, and crate-digging turned from a hobby into the thread running through everything he does. He's happiest with a turntable, a stack of second-hand vinyl and time to lose. He writes about records, turntables and DJ culture.
Articles by Oliver Thompson
Common Serum Plugin Mistakes to Avoid
These are the errors that slow down every Serum user at first — from overloading unison to clipping the output and ignoring wavetable position.
Hifi Speakers Explained: Features, Types and Tips
HiFi speakers reproduce music faithfully with minimal distortion. Here's what makes them different and what you need to know to choose a system.
Vinyl Player for Beginners: A Complete Guide
Everything a nervous first-timer needs to get a vinyl player set up and playing safely, without the intimidating spec-sheet overload.
Everything You Need to Know About Roland A49 Midi Keyboard Controller
Roland MIDI keyboards are essential for music production and live performance. Discover how to select the perfect controller for your setup and workflow.
The Ultimate Guide to Udo Synthesizer
Udo synthesizers combine retro aesthetics with modern manufacturing and hands-on creativity. Perfect for musicians seeking distinctive character and intuitive control.
Marshall Speaker Explained: Features, Types and Tips
There are two completely different things called a Marshall speaker — here's how to tell them apart and what each one actually does.
Common Elektron Mistakes to Avoid
Not because the gear's no good — a handful of avoidable habits trip almost everyone up in their first fortnight with Elektron. Here's how to skip them.
Bass Synthesizer: A Complete Buyer's Guide
Choosing the right bass synthesiser means matching the instrument to your context, experience and budget. Here is how to approach it.
The Best Amplifiers for the Money
There's no single best amplifier — here's where the money genuinely goes further depending on how and where you actually listen.
Vinyl Record Cleaner Kit: A Complete Buyer's Guide
A crate-digger's guide to choosing the right cleaning setup: what the different systems actually do and which one is right for your collection and budget.
Vinyl Record Storage: A Complete Buyer's Guide
It's easy to end up with a cabinet that's too shallow or one shove away from tipping over. Here's what's actually worth checking before you buy.
Dj Set for Beginners: A Complete Guide
Building your first DJ set doesn't need to sound perfect. Here's the simple version of getting started, without the overwhelm.
The Best Cdj 2000s for the Money
Original, NXS2 or CDJ-3000 — here's how the three tiers stack up, and which one is actually worth your money.
Everything You Need to Know About Virtual Dj Software for Mac
Mac offers excellent DJ software options. This guide covers Traktor Pro, Serato DJ Pro, Rekordbox and Virtual DJ, helping you choose the best solution for your needs.
Vinyl Record Player Explained: Features, Types and Tips
Belt drive, phono preamp, cartridge, RPM — let's untangle the jargon around a vinyl record player, crate-digger to crate-digger.
Vinyl Storage for Beginners: A Complete Guide
Records in a carrier bag on the floor? Here's the simple habit that sorts out vinyl storage from record one.
A Guide to Vinyl Record Cleaning Machines
Crackle isn't always the vinyl's fault — it's often just dirt. Here's what a record cleaning machine does, and which type actually suits you.
The Complete Guide to Tool Vinyl Albums
Tool vinyl albums represent sought-after releases among collectors, featuring exceptional artwork and meticulous sonic presentation. Discover the band's vinyl legacy and collectability tiers.
Midi Keyboard for Beginners: A Complete Guide
Getting connected and working is quick once you know the steps. Oliver walks through the full process from the beginning, without assuming any prior experience.
Vinyl Cleaning Machines Explained: Features, Types and Tips
Dust, oils, mould release compounds — records pick up all sorts. Here's what a proper cleaning machine actually does about it, and what it can't.
What Oliver Thompson covers
Amplifier
Amplifiers power and shape your system, from compact integrated models to high-end separates for serious listening.
35 topics
Cassette Player
Cassette players keep classic tape playback alive for collectors, musicians and anyone revisiting analogue recordings.
Marshall Speaker
Marshall speakers combine iconic design with wireless convenience and room-friendly sound for modern home listening.
MIDI Controller
Flexible controllers for software instruments, recording and live performance, from compact pads to full keyboard setups...
1 topic
MIDI Keyboard
Compact or full-size controllers for software instruments, hardware synths and production workflows in studio or live se...
1 topic
Modular Synthesizer
Fully custom electronic instruments built from separate modules for deep sound design and live patching.
1 topic
Portable CD Player
Portable CD players offer compact, private playback for listeners who still value physical discs and simple operation.
Synthesizer
Find a synthesizer for studio sound design, live performance and electronic music, from classic analogue tones to versat...
13 topicsPopular topics
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Index- Guitars 1,525
- Pianos & Keyboards 491
- Drums & Percussion 278
- Orchestral Strings 76
- Wind & Woodwind 97
- Brass Instruments 70
- Folk & World Instruments 108
- Studio Recording 484
- Music Software & DAWs 250
- DJ & Electronic Production 199
- Live Sound & PA 143
- Music Accessories 165
- Sheet Music & Learning 63
- Music Genres 285
- Music News & Industry 246
- Hi-Fi & Home Audio 64
- Artists & Bands 39