The second edition of Surround Sound: Up and Running ($44.95), published by Focal Press (www.focalpress.com), is a comprehensive guide to the technology of multichannel audio systems. Author Tomlinson Holman, best known for developing THX Sound while at Lucasfilm, tackles topics ranging from psychoacoustic phenomena to how monitoring affects the mix. Most of the book's 240 pages emphasize concrete applications such as room setup, proper mic technique, and equalization. Holman discusses recent developments such as 10.2 surround, inexpensive hardware, and the increasing variety of delivery formats. He also explains concepts such as panning law and phantom imaging. An addendum details the challenges of mixing the film Saving Private Ryan, and appendices introduce the fundamentals of digital audio.

Updating the previous editions, Sonar 7 Power! The Comprehensive Guide ($39.99) explores virtually every aspect of Cakewalk's flagship sequencer with 668 pages of detailed explanations, step-by-step examples, and hands-on exercises. Author Scott Garrigus investigates Sonar's Step Sequencer, takes a look at the tools in Piano Roll view, and covers V-Vocal's pitch-to-MIDI capabilities. He also tells you how to use Sonar's new mastering tools — Boost 11, Linear Phase EQ, and Linear Phase Multiband Compressor. Additional topics include sidechaining, ripping and burning CDs, and using external hardware effects. Bonus chapters are available as downloads from the publisher, Thomson Course Technology PTR (www.courseptr.com).

In his book Noise/Music: A History (Continuum [www.continuumbooks.com], $22.95), Irish philosopher and educator Paul Hegarty examines the phenomenon of noise as music. Aimed at anyone interested in the avant-garde (and especially modern music that's dissonant and challenging), the book provides a historical overview that begins with the Italian Futurist movement, touches on composers from Edgard Varèse to Pauline Oliveros, and progresses to bands like Throbbing Gristle and Severed Heads. Although Hegarty's approach is musically (and geographically) all over the map, it's a fascinating read and offers a wealth of information and perspective on the subject.