ZIRCOTHC ESP32 DRUM SYNTH LOFI MACHINE

video upload by zcarlos zc

"ESP32 drum synth Lofi machine.
Sound demo of my DIY drum (or noise) machine.

Hardware:
- Lolin S2 Mini (ESP32 S2)
- PCM5102A I2s dac
- 24 push buttons (8x3)
- Rotary encoder
- OLED display I2c
- 32 LED WS2812B

Synth engine:
- Wavetable synthesizer based on DZL Arduino library "The Synth" (github.com/dzlonline/the_synth)
- 16 sound polyphony
- Sound parameters: Table, Length, Envelope, Pitch, Modulation, + Volume, Pan and Filter.
* Filter (LowPassFilter) comes from Mozzy library (github.com/sensorium/Mozzi)

Sequencer:
16 step/pattern editor and random generators (pattern, sound parameters and notes)

Soon schematics and code."

Previously:

ESP8266 DRUM MACHINE V2

video upload by zcarlos zc 5 years ago in 2019

"ESP8266 DRUM MACHINE V2
2 MPR121 modules (24 keys)
1 I2S DAC
4 potentiometer (i2c ADC ADS1115)
RGB neopixel style leds

More info: https://zircothc.wordpress.com"

ESP8266 DRUM MACHINE

video upload by zcarlos zc also 5 years ago in 2019

ESP8266 DRUM MACHINE
2X MPR121 modules
1 MAX7219 module
1 I2S DAC
24 Green/Red LEDS

More info: https://zircothc.wordpress.com

Randomwaves Introduces Drumboy & Synthgirl

video uploads by Randomwaves



"Unleash your creativity and explore the world of sound with Randomwaves. Our new handheld instruments, Drumboy and Synthgirl, put the power of music-making in the palm of your hand.

www.randomwaves.io"

Drumboy packs a powerful punch in a compact design. Featuring an ARM processor and intuitive controls, you can create dynamic beats and percussion patterns with ease.

10 Instrument Layers

Mix and match to build unique rhythmic textures

Parametric EQ

Sculp your sound with precision for perfect beats

2 Effect Channels

Add depth, texture, and character to your grooves

Reverb Engine

Create immersive and atmospheric soundscapes

---

Synthgirl is a powerful wavetable synthesizer that empowers you to craft a vast sonic palette. With 2 versatile oscillators, you can explore a world of evolving sounds and textures with just your fingertips.

2 Wavetable OSCs

Craft unique and evolving sonic creations

4 LFOs

Explore endless modulation possibilities

2 Effect Channels

Add depth, texture, and character to your sounds

Reverb Engine

Create immersive and atmospheric soundscapes

VEKT - Portable Drum Computer V.4

video upload by uszymyszy

"Hi! Here is v.4, I redesigned the enclosure to be more rugged, we have also a battery and speaker. Most of the errors are solved, the UI is quite cluttered yet and I make a lot of missclicks/wrong shortcuts but after some tweaks everything should go fluent.

The idea is to have a pocket version of Ableton workflow, simplified but easy enough to create sketches for further polishing in DAW. I plan to build several units for testers but is still a lot of work to do and I cannot guarantee anything at the moment. I will try to progress as much as possible to finish this in this year."

And from one year ago:

Vekt - Portable Drum Computer

video upload by uszymyszy

"I built a Pocket Operator alternative. It can now record and play internal synths. There are 4 engines:
- Bass (Roland TB-303 mod),
- Lead (8bit style),
- Braids (implementation of Mutable Instruments eurorack module),
- Wavetable (several waves mixed by knobs)

I hope the UI is self explanatory, it is focused on simplicity and uses Ableton-like mini session view to launch clips"

The first prototype was shown 3 years ago on reddit.

It looks like a Dirtywave M8 tracker, but is different in both build layout and function. From the creator:

"M8 is a stunnig device for complex projects, I plan to keep my Vekt operator more like pocket op where you can quickly create sketches/ideas and polish them later on DAW. And the main idea for me personally was to quickly create rhythmic sequences which I can use with my visualization app instead making them in DAW, this will speed up the process."

Wee Noise Maker PGB-1 – The all-in-one open-source pocket groovebox

video upload by Crowd Supply



via Crowd Supply

"Wee Noise Makers PGB-1 is an advanced yet portable sequencer that lets you craft complex musical pieces anywhere. This all-in-one, open-source, customizable device is designed to empower aspiring musicians, seasoned creators, and makers. It isn’t just an instrument—it’s your gateway to the world of music production and audio synths.

Rock Out, Anywhere
PGB-1 has an open-source stock firmware that makes it a playful and powerful groove box. It allows you to craft complex musical pieces with drums, bass, lead, samples, reverb, bitcrusher, overdrive, and others.

Orchestrated by an advanced sequencer with conditional steps, repeats/ratcheting, pattern chaining, chord sequencing, song mode, live sequencing effects, and more. And it’s also a hackable and customizable device, with CircuitPython, C\C++, and Ada support for programming your own synthesizers, video games, or any audio based projects.

Features & Specifications

Processor: Raspberry Pi RP2040

16 MB Flash
Audio IC: Cirrus Logic WM8960 (or equivalent)

Up to 32-bit at 48 kHz digital audio link
On-chip Headphone Driver, 1 W Stereo Class D Speaker Driver
Up to 3 stereo Line-in/Microphone interfaces
User Interface

128 x 64 monochrome OLED screen
24 addressable RGB LEDs
30 tactile switches
1 capacitive touch strip
Input & Outputs

1x USB Type-C (Power & Data)
1x 3.5 mm Headphone/Headset
1x 3.5 mm Audio Line-in
1x 3.5 mm MIDI Input (TRS type-A)
1x 3.5 mm MIDI Output (TRS type-A)
Internal microphone
Open Source
PGP-1 is an open hardware project. Right now, you can browse the GitHub repo for the device’s firmware. Later, we will make the schematics available to the public."

ULT-SOUND DS-4M : first jam

video upload by Freaky Tweaky

"The DS-4 drum synth, which was released by Toyo Gakki in the 1980s under the 'ULT--SOUND' brand and was used by the drummers of Japan's leading techno-pop group, has been revived in modern times.

While faithfully reproducing the circuit configuration of the original (early model), CV/GATE input terminals for each channel have been added to allow for cooperation with modular synths, etc., making it even more comfortable to use as a production tool."

JAde Wii Takes the New Limited Edition Erica Synths Perkons HD-01 in Black for a Spin

JAde Wii x Erica Synths Perkons HD-01 Drum Machine, First Encounter 👾 video upload by JAde Wii - https://www.jadewii.com/

via Erica Synths

"Introducing a truly unique and exquisite limited edition Pērkons HD-01 with an all-new sleek black finish and side panels crafted from handpicked wood and meticulously engraved using the mesmerizing Lichtenburg burning method.

The timelessly black finish of Pērkons HD-01 matches our other instruments and visually complements the dark aesthetic that has become synonymous with Erica Synths modules and desktop instruments all over the world. In addition the limited edition side panels are not just functional pieces of decor; they are works of art that effortlessly blend natural beauty with artisanal craftsmanship. Handpicked apple tree and plum wood brings a touch of orchard elegance, infusing each panel with the warmth and character of nature's bounty. The ash and oak wood, renowned for their durability and distinct grain patterns, provide a sturdy foundation for the intricate engravings.

But what truly sets these side panels apart is the mesmerizing Lichtenburg burning method employed in their creation. This technique, named after the physicist Georg Christoph Lichtenberg, involves applying high-voltage electricity to the wood's surface, resulting in striking patterns reminiscent of lightning strikes. The method has gained notoriety due to numerous incidents of death and severe injuries when people have attempted it at home, with at least 33 people having died between 2017 and 2022. Pērkons HD-01 engraved side panels have been hand made by Sandis Vāgners in the deep woods of Latvia. To prevent his certain death during the engraving process Erica Synths developed a special emergency power cut circuit."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Body Synths introduces the Metal Fetishist

video upload by Body Synths

"The Body Synths Metal Fetishist is a Percussion Synthesizer featuring a loopable randomness sequencer and a eurorack-compatible control-voltage interface.

The Metal Fetishist is a beat-making platform designed for rythm discovery and percussive sound design. The unapologetically digital sound engine includes a single oscillator, a white noise source, a resonant multi-mode filter and a digital distortion section featuring downsampling and overdrive."

Four Body Synths Metal Fetishist percussion synths playing together

video upload by Body Synths

"Sequencing 4 Metal Fetishist units with an Arturia Beatstep Pro. Spring reverb from Roland VX-55. Analog delay from Roland DC-20."

"The Body Synths Metal Fetishist is a Percussion Synthesizer featuring a loopable randomness sequencer and a eurorack-compatible control-voltage interface.

Explore percussion by synthesizing simple Kicks, harsh Noise, fuzzy Drones, digital Glitches and plucky microtonal Melodies
The Metal Fetishist is a beat-making platform designed for rythm discovery and percussive sound design. The unapologetically digital sound engine includes a single oscillator, a white noise source, a resonant multi-mode filter and a digital distortion section featuring downsampling and overdrive.

Random sequencing with control
The Metal Fetishist features two randomness generators. At every trigger step of the sequence, the Random Step Mod section creates a new modulation value that can modify the Pitch, the amount of Noise or the filter Cut-Off value, while the modulation amount can be selected manually. At every sequence step, the Random Skips control decides if the current step will trigger or not, based on the skipping amount selected. The big STEPS knob won't do anything at its OFF position, leaving the synth in completely random mode! But as you turn it right it will lock the previously generated random step values into repeatable sequences of length 2, 4, 8, 10, 16 or 32. Have fun with it!"

Behringer Reveals RD-78 Drum Machine

via Behringer

"RD-78 is now up and running!

We are in the last stages of pre-production and are working closely with our beta testers to ensure the unit sounds spot on.

And for those who love the technical details, we have incorporated the exact same circuitry into the design, including the original coils and LC filters.

The team is filled with excitement about this legendary drum machine."

trkr_Trm - Upcoming Portable Hardware Groovebox Tracker

video upload by hinick



trkr_Trm is a new 64bit real-time tracker/groovebox that runs on the Linux.

The following are some details in via the creator, hi_nick aka hihihihinick.

"The device is implicitly designed for hosting Renoise, but as shown can be used for many other ARM64 based programs. Even the well loved headless M8 tracker. I wanted to make something that was just as fun and musically useful as some of the other retail offerings but following the tenants of open source hardware and software so anyone can roll their own. The demo is of the v1 t prototype, and there is still much to be done, but at present, I'm up to prototype v3. The focus presently is completion of the design for the main board which will serve as a carrier for Raspberry Pi compute modules, or offerings from other companies that use the compute module form factor. This carrier board ideally could be used for other purposes than the trkr_Trm, that require audio i/o, and modular connections to peripheral devices.

The goal is to have everything, including build guides, hardware, and software repositories live upon completion of a crowd funding campaign. Pre-built units for those who just want to 'get to cookin' will be available if all goes to plan during and post funding."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Meet the NI404 Open-Source Sampler and Sequencer from Soundpauli

soundpauli:NI404 video upload by Jank

"The NI404 is an innovative, open-source sampler and sequencer from soundpauli - nspired by the classic Etch-A-Sketch, tailored for beginners and DIY enthusiasts. Designed around the Teensy Microcontroller and Audioboard from PJRC, this device offers an accessible entry point into the world of music creation.

The NI404 is more than just a musical instrument; it's a journey into the world of sound exploration, perfect for live performances, studio sessions, or simply having fun creating music. Whether you're a seasoned musician or a curious beginner, the NI404 is your gateway to an exciting world of musical possibilities."



via https://ni404.tyng.app

THE OPEN SOURCE SAMPLE-SEQUENCER FOR EVERYONE.
The NI404 is an innovative, open-source DIY sample-sequencer from soundpauli - inspired by the classic Etch-A-Sketch, tailored for beginners and DIY enthusiasts. Designed around the Teensy Microcontroller and Audioboard from PJRC, this device offers an accessible entry point into the world of music creation.

The NI404 is more than just a musical instrument; it's a journey into the world of sound exploration, perfect for live performances, studio sessions, or simply having fun creating music. Whether you're a seasoned musician or a curious beginner, the NI404 is your gateway to an exciting world of musical possibilities.

KEY FEATURES

EASY TO USE.
With its playful design, the NI404 lets users create complex sound patterns without any prior knowledge of musical instruments or equipment. It's perfect for beginners and makers alike.

DYNAMIC CONTROL DESPITE
LESS BUTTONS.
At the heart of the NI404 is a vivid 16x16 RGB LED panel display, paired with three intuitive rotary-push encoders. Navigate a cursor across the grid, where each row signifies a voice and each column a potential note, allowing for up to 16 pitches per note. This feature enables the mixing of up to 8 voices simultaneously.

REAL-TIME INTERACTION.
Adjust samples, instruments, pitches, notes, volume, BPM, velocity, and effects in real-time without pausing. This seamless interaction makes the NI404 an ideal gadget for live performances.

CORE COMPONENTS.
Teensy 4.1 Microcontroller and Teensy Audio board (4.0)
8MB PSRAM Flash Memory
3 Rotary-push encoders
16x16 RGB-LED Panel driven by FastLED
3.5mm audio jack and removable SD Microcard slot
CREATIVE FLEXIBILITY.
Etch-A-Sketch style note drawing
On-the-fly note deletion and sample muting
Adjustable volume, BPM (40 - 200), pattern, and note velocity
Up to 30-second sample length with seamless looping
Use your own samples on the SD-Card - in a simple file structure
Load up to 8 voices / samples (Wav format) plus an additional onboard synth voice
16-bar patterns across 8 pages, totaling 128 bars per song
Save and load up to 100 patterns / songs on the SD card
Autosave and autoload functions
SAMPLES AT YOUR FINGERTIPS:
THE BUILT-IN SAMPLE BROWSER.
Access and manage samples while playing, with support for up to 999 samples on the SD card and the ability to predefine multiple voices as a SampleSet.

FULLY INDEPENDENT.
Operates without a computer, generating all sounds on the device itself. USB powered (5V) and Arduino code is published under the MIT License.

Important: The NI404 does not include speakers or Bluetooth connectivity; headphones are recommended. Because of licensing: please use your own sample files (folder structure is included).

READY FOR MORE.
Potential updates include USB-MIDI In & Out, AI-powered song / pattern generation, WiFi connectivity, and a new aluminium casing.

HARDWARE LIST
Custom PCB - to connect the encoders to the Teensy (but you can also hard wire everything): see Downloads

https://ni404.tyng.app

KORG Introduces the KR-11 Compact Rhythm Box

video upload by Korg

CLICK FOR MORE »

DRUM MINT 83

video uploads by HOME BAKE INSTRUMENTS

via HOME BAKE INSTRUMENTS

DRUM MINT is a micro rhythm machine with 7 rhythm parts. It is also equipped with functions such as a hybrid sound source of analog modeling and PCM, a sequencer with 16 steps and 8 patterns, pattern chain playback, a flam function, and pattern muting. The DRUM MINT 83 not only improves sound quality thanks to a more powerful CPU, but also reconfigures it to make it easier to use for acid and house music. In addition, the built-in stereo delay makes it possible to express a wide range of expressions.

Error Instruments Introduces The Passive Operator - One-of-a-Kind Passive Drum Synthesizer

video uploads by errorinstruments paul tas

Update: explanation video added to the start of the playlist above.

"The Passive Operator is a one-of-a-kind drum synthesizer that operates without the need for an external power supply. Instead, it relies on triggers, gates, and Control Voltage (CV) signals, making it compatible with Eurorack modular systems or standalone setups. Developed as part of the Tropical Noise platform, this drum synthesizer offers experimental sounds and a truly unique sonic experience. In this article, we will explore the features and capabilities of the Passive Operator, highlighting its design, functionality, and the potential for creative sound manipulation.

1. Design and Construction:
The Passive Operator is housed in a sturdy bricky format box made of solid aluminum. Its robust construction ensures durability and reliability, making it suitable for both studio and live performances. The device features different compartments, each serving a specific purpose in shaping the sound.

2. Input Compartments:
The Passive Operator boasts two input compartments, labeled "WTF in 2x." These inputs are located on the left side of the device and accept CV, gate, trigger, and even audio signals. The sensitivity of these inputs allows for precise control and modulation, enabling users to create intricate rhythmic patterns and dynamic soundscapes.

3. Mix Compartment:
The mix compartment serves as a central hub for signal routing. By connecting the mix output to the matrix, users can explore various combinations of triggers and CV signals, resulting in unique rhythms and tonal variations. The mix compartment enhances the versatility of the Passive Operator, allowing for seamless integration with other modular gear or audio equipment.

4. Patch Matrix in and Outputs:
The patch matrix provides multiple outputs for triggers and Control Voltage, expanding the creative possibilities of the Passive Operator. Users can experiment with different patching configurations, both internally within the matrix and externally to other jacks. Additionally, the matrix offers control over the potential meters, enabling users to fine-tune their sound by finding sweet spots and manipulating the tonal characteristics.

5. Customization and Expansion:
One notable feature of the Passive Operator is its ability to accommodate electronica compartments. This unique design aspect allows users to swap out compartments, effectively changing the sound characteristics of the device. Furthermore, the addition of a touchpad offers an alternative control method, enabling users to interact with the synthesizer using their fingers, adding a tactile and expressive dimension to their performances.

Conclusion:
The Passive Operator is a remarkable drum synthesizer that defies convention by operating without the need for external power. Its unique design, experimental sounds, and versatile functionality make it a standout option for musicians and sound enthusiasts. The combination of triggers, gates, and Control Voltage signals opens up a world of creative possibilities, allowing users to sculpt their own unique rhythms and tones. With its solid aluminum construction, intuitive interface, and the potential for customization and expansion, the Passive Operator is a must-have tool for those seeking to push the boundaries of electronic music production. Watch the demonstration video to see the Passive Operator in action and discover the endless sonic possibilities it offers.

Remember to check out the Passive Operator and experience the innovative world of drum synthesis without the need for power supply limitations. More demo www.errorinstruments.con
Available from 15 December"

KORG Introduces the MPS-10 Drum, Percussion & Sampler Pad

video upload by Korg

"The Korg MPS-10 is a cutting-edge drum pad, sampler, and looper designed for expressive percussion performances. Its 10 responsive drum pads, versatile sampler with 3,000+ samples, 32GB internal storage, and powerful 4-track looper offer endless creative possibilities. With real-time effects, modulation capabilities, and seamless kit transitions, it empowers musicians to shape their sound on the fly. Plus, its flexible connectivity options make integration into any setup a breeze."

MPS-10 Overview and Demo

video upload by Korg

"The Korg MPS-10 is an innovative drum pad, sampler, and looper that empowers musicians to craft expressive percussion performances. Its durable yet refined design caters to the diverse needs of drummers and percussionists, enabling creative and versatile performances.

Drummer Greg Fox highlights the Korg MPS-10's key features showcasing the 10 responsive drum pads, the versatile sampler with 3,000+ samples and 32GB internal storage, its robust 4-track looper, and real-time effects with modulation capabilities.

Musicians can shape their sound in real time using the four Continuous Control pads (CC pads) and experience seamless kit transitions through Smooth Sound Transition (SST). Additionally, its flexible connectivity options, including USB, MIDI, external trigger in, foot switch, and expression jack, simplify integration into any existing setup.

More details: https://www.korg.com/us/products/drums/mps10/

Check out Greg Fox here: https://gregfox.space/

Chapters:

00:00 Intro
00:16 10 Drum Pads
01:16 Four-Track Looper
03:11 Versatile Sound Presets
04:12 Sampler & Connectivity
05:09 Looping & Triggering"



Specifications

Maximum polyphony 48 voices Kits 200 (including user KITs) INST 2350 SAMPLE 3002 Effects 77 Input/output jacks and ports Headphones (6.3 mm TRS phone jack)

Audio outputs: MAIN OUT L (MONO), MAIN OUT R, SUB OUT 1, SUB OUT 2 (6.3 mm TRS phone jacks)

Audio inputs: LINE IN L/R, MIC IN (6.3 mm TRS phone jacks)

Trigger input: CH A/B, C/D (6.3 mm stereo phone jacks)

Foot pedals 1, 2 (6.3 mm TRS phone jacks)

Expression pedal (6.3 mm TRS phone jack)

MIDI OUT

USB-A (Type-A) USB standard ver. 2.0, Hi-Speed compliant (480 Mbps)

USB-B (Type-B) USB standard ver. 2.0, Hi-Speed compliant (480 Mbps) Internal memory 32 GB (including preset data) Playable data formats WAV, 44.1 kHz/48 kHz, 16-bit (up to 60 minutes long)

AIFF, 44.1 kHz/48 kHz, 16-bit (up to 60 minutes long) Display 320 × 240 dots (backlit color LCD) Operating temperature 0 to +40°C (avoid condensation) Power supply AC adapter (DC 9 V) Dimensions (W × D × H) 424 × 264 × 75 mm/16.69" × 10.39" × 2.95" Weight 2.3 kg/5.07 lb Included items AC adapter, Quick Start Guide

New SONICWARE Lofi-12 XT | Lo-fi Groovebox Sampler - Advanced Model Comes to Kickstarter

video uploads by SONICWARE

"We are pleased to announce the launch of our new product, "Lofi-12 XT" on Kickstarter.
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/...

The Lofi-12 XT is an advanced model of the Liven Lofi-12, newly developed based on hardware of the SmplTrek. The Lofi-12 XT inherits the retro sampling engine of the Liven Lofi-12 but is redesigned and redeveloped as an even more user-friendly and fun Lo-fi Groovebox Sampler.

Please support this project on Kickstarter.

Rewards:
Super Early Bird (Only 100 units): under $379 [save $120+]
Early Bird (The first 5 days): under $399 [save $100+]
Kickstarter Price (Special price): $429 [save $70+]

- Limited Retro Color -
Super Early Bird (Only 100 units): under $399 [save $160+]
Early Bird (The first 5 days): under $429 [save $130+]

For more Information:
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/...
日本語の紹介：https://ja.sonicware.jp/pages/lofi12xt

*The USD prices are calculated as of October 23, 2023. The pledge amount displayed will change depending on the USD-JPY exchange rate."

Click the pics for full size shots.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Introducing nanobox | tangerine

video upload by 1010music

"Get powerful sampling capabilities in the nanobox form factor. With the
sampling features of nanobox | tangerine, you can add interesting new ways
of generating sound and music to your desktop or travel rig. Trigger one
shots, play time synced loops or record live looping. The nanobox |
tangerine can use one shots to play hip rhythms, or huge multi-samples to
play soulful melodic tunes.

Sweet and Tangy Sampling
The nanobox | tangerine delivers powerful sampling in an ultra-portable form
factor. With this nanobox, you can add recording, sample playback, clip
launching, slicing, and musically intelligent looping capabilities to your
desktop or travel rig. With an intuitive touch screen interface, nanobox |
tangerine makes easy work of selecting, editing, and tweaking your samples.
You can stream large samples of up to 4 GB file size straight from the
microSD card. Interact with other musical components via MIDI. Load
multi-sample banks with over 500 samples for amazing instrument
reproduction. Tweak your configurations to get them just right, then save
them to multiple presets for future reuse."

Synthfest UK 23: Yamaha - FGDP-50 Fingerdrum - Nice

video upload by sonicstate

"At Synthfest UK 2023, we had a chat with Simon from Yamaha about their latest venture into the world of finger drumming with the FGDP finger drum pad. Yamaha may not be the first name that comes to mind for finger drumming, but they've entered the game with a fresh perspective. The FGDP-50 features a unique pad layout designed for ergonomic and intuitive finger drumming. With 18 pads thoughtfully distributed in a compact space, players can easily create intricate rhythms with a single hand. This pad isn't just about drumming; it offers three key functions: finger controller, DAW controller, and a session mode for playing internal songs and jamming along.

Beyond the layout, the FGDP-50 boasts 1500 sounds and offers flexible assignment options, making it versatile for both beginners and experienced drummers. It can function as a MIDI expander for electronic drum kits, and its USB audio capabilities allow for direct recording and playback without the need for a computer.

FGDP-50 Price: £220

https://uk.yamaha.com/en/products/mus..."

New Sonic Sand Castles' Audio Enjoyer XR-1 Groovebox Sneak Peak

video upload by Sonic Sand Castles

"A test jam with the xr-1 groovebox"

xr-1 909 groove test


"Testing applying a 909-style groove/swing in varying amounts on the xr-1"

via Reddit 2 days ago:

"Hey all, this is a prototype of the xr-1, a digital drum machine, sampler, and synthesizer. It’s powered by the Teensy 4.1 microcontroller.

It’s a 909 style sequencer (a step can be off, on, or accented), with 16 banks, 16 patterns per bank, 16 tracks per pattern, and a max of 64 steps per track.

There are 4 performance modes (tap, mute, solo, ratchet) and a song arrangement mode.

It has stereo in/out (usb audio in the future). It has 5-pin DIN MIDI I/O, 4 pairs of CV/gate outputs (really 8x CV outs with 0V to +10V range).

A micro SD card is used to store/recall audio samples and project data. Samples can be mono RAW or stereo WAV files. Mono samples can be looped.

There are 16 sample voices available, and 4 voices which can be used as synthesizer voices.

I currently only have a simple 2-oscillator subtractive synthesizer right now. More will be added later.

It has a capacitive touch keyboard which is useful for assigning notes to steps, playing while jamming, performing with ratchets at various beat divisions.

Lots more details to come.

I will be demoing this at the Machina Bristronica festival in Bristol next week (flying all the way from the metro Detroit area, first time overseas). If you’re able to make it, come by booth (My business name is Audio Enjoyer) and say hi.

I will launch a signup page later this month and post here again so you can sign up for more info."

Introducing the Woovebox micro music workstation; pocket groovebox, synth, sequencer, sampler

video upload by Woovebox

"Discover the Woovebox; the smallest all-in-one micro music workstation on the planet."

via Woovebox

"The Woovebox is a workstation/ groovebox that does more with less. It aims to make music production simpler, cheaper and more portable by condensing a powerful music workstation/studio into a small pocket-sized device - all through aggressive hardware and software optimization. Pocketable, powerful and economical

The Woovebox was designed for those who love creating tunes away from a desk or studio; whether it's on a couch, on a bus, in a coffee shop, or in bed. No space, no hassle, no cables. Just plug in your headphones and go! And when you are ready, the Woovebox plays nice with DAW and other gear; physical MIDI and sync out, wireless MIDI in/out over Bluetooth, audio in, .WAV song and dry/wet stem export - it's all here. Featuring a variety of synthesis algorithms, filters and effects, the optimized engine - quite literally - punches far above its weight; despite weighing only 68g/2.4oz/0.15lbs, the Woovebox offers deep sound design, real-time synthesis, sonic abilities and advanced features that are absent from grooveboxes many times its size and cost.

A fast workflow that inspires

The Woovebox workflow is a rethink of song building; it is fast, it fits a compact device, and it avoids "empty DAW project" paralysis. It was built to reduce friction and make the time from 0-to-head-bobbing to your own track as short as possible. You do not have to memorize endless obscure button combinations, and menu-diving is kept to a minimum.

The workflow centers on quickly setting up and filling out distinct building blocks, where each block quickly combines to create a whole that is more than the sum of its parts. Tempo, rhythm and chord info is re-used throughout the song, interface, playback options and even the synthesis engine. This is combined with conditional triggering and conditional modification of elements and tracks. The results are complex, intricate compositions that sound refined, intentional and planned. If you wish, even just a single 16-step pattern for each of the 16 tracks, is entirely enough to make a complex song that keeps the listener's attention.

Built from scratch using close-to-the-metal programming

In hardware engineering, size restrictions mean power limitations. And power limitations mean DSP (Digital Signal Processing) limitations. Starting off as a personal challenge during the days of lockdowns by a veteran signal processing engineer, the Woovebox' DSP engine was built from scratch to be as "close to the metal" and optimized as possible.

It is a style of programming that focuses on extracting every last drop of raw performance from the hardware, at the cost of easy development. The hardware, firmware and DSP code were hand-crafted in assembly and optimized over the course of three years, to perfectly balance frugality with power, audio quality and features. As a result, your Woovebox synthesizes full, complex tracks and effects in real-time, yet the small built-in battery still lasts 10h+ on one charge. In all aspects the Woovebox project embodies doing more with less."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Meet the Luma-1 - Joe Britt's Enhanced LM-1 Drum Machine In Collaboration with Roger Linn

Joe Britt LM1+ demo video upload by Roger Linn

This one is in via Soviet Space Child.

Above is a prototype Luma-1 in an LM-1 case. Below you'll see some pics of the upcoming Luma1 branded case along with some details.

According to @luma1_drum_machine:

"Welcome! We are two US based engineers who are building and selling a few Luma1 Drum Machines with Roger Linn and Joe Britt’s consent."

"While the Luma1 hardware design is in the final stage for preparation before manufacturing, there is much work happening on the software side. Luma1 is running the original LM1 code on the Z80 CPU while the secondary ARM processor delivers new features. Those include custom sound loading, MIDI, synchronization and now added OLED support. More work needs to be done to expand it and bring brand the new functionality, but we’re really happy with the progress."

Click the pics for larger shots. You can find a full write-up on Roger Linn's website here, and additional demos and pics on Instagram here.

Roger Linn: "I've recently met a new friend named Joe Britt, founder and CEO of a tech company here in Silicon Valley called Afero, and designer of some significant tech products over the years.

Lucky for me, Joe also has a personal interest in my old drum machines. A few years ago, a friend of his gave him (!) one of my old LM1 drum machines. He enjoyed playing with it, but he wished it had a few extra features like loading alternate sounds from files, and pitch and pan knobs on the front panel.

So he decided to make his own enhanced LM1. He searched the web and found some incomplete old schematics, filled in the gaps by reverse-engineering the boards, then redesigned and replaced all of the circuit boards to include his enhancements. Note in the photo above that his redesigned boards are about half the size of the original boards, and are purple! Prince would have loved that."