****Excellent***Good**Fair*Poor : VIDEOCASSETTES

“Touche Ross Video Tax Guide 1988.” Mastervision. $29.95. Around this time last year the impending change in federal income tax laws brought a glut of video tax guides--from the thoroughly straight-faced (Touche Ross’) to the humor-laced (one hosted by comedian Robert Klein). Touche Ross’ no-nonsense approach won out with critics and consumers and the tax partners have brought out a completely updated, all-new version. The ’88 tape is basically a talking-heads presentation, featuring several experts giving advice on seven key subjects, with an emphasis on deductions and investment planning. As a disclaimer mentions, this 70-minute cassette covers only “some of the highlights of selected tax subjects,” but it’s a useful first stop before going on to more confusing printed tax guides, clarifying consultants and those dreaded forms. Information: (212) 879-0448. *** 1/2