While it might not have been the busiest week in the world of music tech, the bits that did find their way to the web surely were enough to keep us busy. This week, we check in with Moderat at the group’s Berlin studio to talk both producing and performing live, review Livid Instruments’ new Base controller, hear found sounds from Jon Hopkins, check out the iMPC for iPhone, and share an in-depth—and incredibly easy to comprehend—video which details the individual properties of analog and digital audio.

The week the band released its sophomore album, II, Moderat (a.k.a. the collaboration between Modeselektor and Apparat) invited us to its Berlin studio/rehearsal space to discuss the production methods behind its new record and how the group translates its songs on stage. Our full interview and drool-worthy collection of photos can be found in the latest From Studio to Stage feature, here.

Also on XLR8R this week, we took Livid Instruments‘ new Base controller for a test drive, deeming the unit from the boutique, Austin-based company “an expressive, finely crafted, flexible instrument that will play nicely with any software currently on the market.” The full review can be read here.

In a recent interview with Dummy, veteran UK producer Jon Hopkins shared a piece of found-sound audio used on his recent, XLR8R Pick’d Immunity LP in order to help illustrate how he incorporates real-world sounds and field recordings into his work. Hopkins’ piece of manipulated fireworks—which is used in the background of album track “Abandon Window”—can be heard below, while Dummy’s interview with the artist on the subject can be read here.

Though it has existed as an iPad app for a while now, Akai officially released an iPhone version of its iMPC app this week, featuring “1,200 samples, 50 editable programs, 80 editable sequences, and iconic MPC workflow.” Full details on the new app—which is currently available via iTunes for the reasonable price of $2.99—can be found here.

Lastly, for the true nerds out there, we’ve included this extremely informative video which explains the fundamental differences (and inherent similarities) between digital and analog audio, while also dispelling some myths about D/A and A/D conversion. Those seeking some concrete knowledge on the subject are encouraged to set aside 25 minutes to watch the video above. (via Create Digital Music)