New England Synth Fest Set for April 22 in Burlington, Mass

Details follow:

"New England Synth Fest, Saturday, April 22, 12pm to 6pm, in Burlington, Mass (at the Microsoft Technology Center, 5 Wayside Road). SIX HOURS of live music, video art, vendors, exhibitors, lectures, a jam room, and a synthesizer petting zoo. FREE admission.

Live music from Christina Shivers, Deftly Demolition, Jade Rose, Metal Tiger, Michael William Gilbert, Repairer of Reputations, Sean Stover, Sherisa Sterling, SHERMVN, s0ak, and Tom Eaton. Live visualization art from Allison Tanenhaus, Anagram, coolpics.biz, Jame Coyne, SunJessie, Vidumami, and more!

Lectures and talks from Piotr Rotkiewicz, Robyn Alman, Alex Bernhardt, Michael Bierylo, Collin Russell, Peter Raffensperger, Luke Stark, Gerry Bassermann, Joe Paradiso, and Randel Osborne (see the website for topics and schedule). There will be a "Jam Room" brought to you by Circuit Happy, using shared CV/MIDI clock on their Missing Link hardware. Exhibitors include Circuit Happy, Cyran Makes Music, Sequential, Source Audio, Superlative, and Tall Dog Electronics, AND MORE.

Check out the NESF website for more details."

1984 New England Digital Synclavier 1 VPK Keyboard

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via this auction

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ARP Avatar 1977 Modularized + Extras

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"Modified with Modular Patch Panel by New England Analog."

Retroaktiv HLFO Eurorack Module - Sample & Hold Patches 1

Published on Oct 27, 2017 New England Analog Archives

Modded ARP Avatar w/ Lumina Slider Upgrade

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"Fully restored ARP Avatar with Lumina LED slider kit and and New England Analog Patch bay expander kit.

some marks from use on unit but overall good condition

please note slider switch 'B' (Guitar string select) has sheared off and will need replacing"

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Pyxis Modulation Controller for ARP Odyssey & Other Analog Synths

New England Analog Archives
Published on Aug 31, 2017

"The Pyxis was originally designed to be an aftertouch controller for the ARP Odyssey. It can modulate pitch, filter cutoff, and volume using a linear CV or the internal Pyxis LFO. The unit can also be used with any MIDI to CV converter that generates an aftertouch CV, mod wheel CV, or other MIDI CC CV. This allows for modulation data to be sequenced with MIDI, which is a useful feature when sequencing any analog synth.
The unit shown in this video ha a MIDI jack in the rear, which is how the MIDI controller keyboard is playing notes. The mod wheel on the MIDI keyboard is generating a 0-10V CV by means of a MIDI to CV converter. This signal is fed to the odyssey via an 1/8th inch jack on the rear of the unit. This Odyssey also has aftertouch built into the keyboard, which is not demonstrated in this video."

You can find previous posts featuring the Pyxis including the Oberheim OB-8 here.

Retroaktiv PG-800 Mini - Random Tone Generator & Scratch Patch Buttons

Published on Aug 29, 2017 New England Analog Archives

See this post for one built into the JX-10.

"The PG-800 Mini is a miniature knob controller that mounts inside of the Roland JX-8P or Super JX. This video demonstrates the PG-800 Mini's random tone generator function, as well as the scratch patch function.

Tapping the WRITE button on the PG-800 Mini will generate a generic "scratch patch", which consists of two sawtooth waves, not detuned, through an open filter and a gated VCA. It serves as a great starting point when creating a new program.

Holding the WRITE button will generate a random program.

The unit used in this demo is running Vecoven 4.x firmware, and has the Vecoven PWM PCBs installed."

Retroaktiv HLFO - Module Overview & Function Demo

New England Analog Archives
Published on Aug 9, 2017

"This video demonstrates some of the functionality of the Retroaktiv HLFO (Haptic LFO) for Eurorack. The module is 10HP wide. (Note, the unit shown in this video is a prototype with a lasercut plastic panel. Production units are metal panels with black silkscreen.) It features a voltage-controlled LFO, a sample & hold, a noise source, and a force sensor controller. This module packs a lot of utility into a small space. For more information on this module, please check out www.RetroaktivSynthesizers.com."

Note: I created a new Retroaktiv label for these moving forward. I was previously using the New England Audio label.

New England Audio Retroaktiv HLFO Eurorack Module

New England Analog Archives
Published on Aug 8, 2017

This is the first post to feature the New England Audio Retroaktiv HLFO eurorack module.

"The Retroaktiv HLFO (Haptic LFO) is a 10HP module for Eurorack systems. It is a voltage controlled LFO with a touch sensor, noise source, and sample & hold unit. It features a suite of useful functions, packed into a small module. Features include: LFO with voltage controlled rate and amplitude. LFO can be controlled by force sensor on panel, or by external CVs. Force sensor output = 0-5V. Built in sample & hold with noise generator. When no external source is connected to the S&H, HLFO noise source is normalized to the S&H input. S&H rate and amplitude can be controlled by external CVs or the onboard touch sensor.

In this video, I am running a VCO through a 2-pole Oberheim-style VCF. I'm generally running the main LFO out (the output with amplitude attenuation) to the VCO, and am running the sample & hold output to the filter cutoff. Sometimes I have the touch sensor routed to the filter or the VCO. Even if something is plugged into the touch sensor output, the touch sensor still gets normalized to the rate and amplitude inputs of the LFO unless something is connected to those jacks.

The oscilloscope in the video is connected to the main LFO output. Despite all of the wacky waveforms I'm making in this video, the HLFO can function like a standard tri/squ/S&H LFO. Any keyboard aftertouch sensor can also be connected to the HLFO, which makes it a great module to interface with a mod wheel or aftertouch."

Fixing Roland SH-2000, JP-4, Mars, SH-5 style Keyboard Contact Issues

New England Analog Archives
Published on Aug 3, 2017

"This video is an excerpt from a repair of a Roland SH-2000. The keyboard was having contact issues on many notes. The issue was that the 2 bus bars were very dirty. I cleaned them, and this solved the issue.
This portion of the repair took a little over two hours, due to the amount of disassembly and reassembly required. I had to cut out most of the footage to cut this down to a 10 minute segment."

I hear a synth cat.

Building Retroaktiv LED slider adapter boards for ARP synths

Published on Jul 26, 2017 New England Analog Archives

"This video gives a quick overview of how to construct an LED slider for ARP synthesizers using Retroaktiv LED slider adapter PCBs. We offer full assembled slider sets for Odyssey, Avatar, Axxe, Solus, Quadra, Omni 1, Omni 2, Pro Soloist & Pro DGX. We also offer full slider adapter PCB kits at RetroaktivSynthesizers.com."

ARP Quadra Functions Demo

Published on Jul 25, 2017 New England Analog Archives

"This is a video of a Quadra I restored for a client. I send this sort of video to my customers so that they can give me their approval. I also want to show the customer that each function is working properly. This video may be useful to a prospective Quadra buyer or one who is curious about this instrument. Nothing else sounds like a Quadra."

Roland Super JX with PG-800 Mini Programmer Built In

Published on May 31, 2017 New England Analog Archives

Note the original PG-800 programmer for the JX-10 mainly has sliders with a few knobs. This is a custom controller with all knobs as you can see. It's reminiscent of the PG-300 controller for the JX-3P.

PG-800 Mini (Internal Installation) in JX-10---Turning knobs

Published on May 31, 2017 New England Analog Archives

"It's available in a few different formats. I am offering bare PCBs & graphic overlays (with BOM), fully assembled & tested boards with graphic overlays, and a fully assembled unit in an external enclosure & DIN cable. The programmer fits into the chassis of the JX8P and JX-10P if you want to install it into the synth itself. (Drill template is included with kit) The parameter being controlled is shown on the screen of the synth when you move a knob. I have provisions on the PCB for MIDI in/out/thru, though there is currently no firmware support for those. If you're an adventurous DIY-er, you can play around with that. Firmware is based on the project http://www.poesboes.com/index.html?./... and is being used with permission of the author. (firmware on Poesboes will not work on this unit. There are a bunch of modifications) Firmware is available from me for the cost of the Atmel and shipping, if anyone wants it.

I am taking orders for these now, and will be mailing out the first production run in about 4 weeks. I have 25 units available. The pricing scheme is as follows:

Bare PCB, schematic, programmed processor chip, graphic overlay, BOM, and drill template - $99. (Requires SMD soldering)

Assembled & tested board with drill template and graphic overlay $250
Fully assembled and tested external unit with 5' DIN cable - $350
If you're interested in getting one, please PM me [send message via YouTube]. Thanks!"

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ARP Odyssey 2800 MK1 Whiteface with New England Analog PYSIX Aftertouch Mod & Space Panels

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"This is a truly awesome and rare synth to come across. While containing the original vintage parts, this synth was also modified to enhance the playability and look.

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New England Analog NEA-4019 Eurorack VCA 24-Track Demo

Published on Apr 6, 2016 New England Analog LLC

"This video features 24 tracks of the NEA 4019 discrete VCA module for eurorack. The tracks were recorded using an ARP 2600 with an NEA 4019 VCA as the final output VCA. All vibrato was generated using aftertouch to control the 4019 output. The "synth brass" section at the end was recorded using a Yamaha BC-1 Breath Controller to control the 4019.

The NEA-4019 has separate linear and exponential CV inputs, which allow for unique VCA envelopes that can be smooth or punchy. The 4019 can also be used to process control voltages, as well as audio signals.

The drums in this recording are all using the exponential CV inputs on the 4019. The drum tones themselves are a combination of sine waves and white noise from the 2600.

All sounds came from the 2600 and were amplified using the NEA-4019 module. All vibrato, tremolo, and breath articulation was done using the NEA-4019 to process CV signals."

via NE Analog:

"The NEA-4019 is a clone of the ARP 4019 VCA found in the ARP 2600. This discrete VCA design is exactly the same as the original ARP design with the exception of the matched transistor pairs being upgraded to Analog Devices SSM2220 and SSM2212s. The output opamp is a higher quality opamp than the ones used in the original 4019 modules.

The module is 8U in Eurorack format and includes a 10 Pin power connector ribbon cable. There are 2 audio inputs, a linear CV input, an exponential CV input, and an audio output. All input and output jacks have attenuators.

This unit is currently being built to order. Each NEA-4019 order will ship in approximately 3 weeks."

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Jupiter 8 modified with Pyxis aftertouch demo

Published on Aug 20, 2013 kpsiegel

"I had my Jupiter modified to accept a New England Analog Pyxis aftertouch system along with an aftertouch pressure pad. It allows me to do the following:

Bend VCO1 and/or VCO2 with aftertouch in the same or different directions. Very nice for aftertouch detuning.

Open the filter cutoff and/or add an additional triangle or square wave LFO as a filter modulation if desired with aftertouch

Modify the VCA volume and/or add a triangle or square wave LFO tremolo wtih aftertouch

The rate of the Pyxis LFO can also be affected by the aftertouch sensor.

Basically a lot of cool stuff. This mod also allows you to have the aftertouch active or not at either split point for split keyboard mode patches.

For this demo the Jupiter 8 had NO filter modification done by anything other than the aftertouch system. No envelopes at all come into play. An H3000 D/SE was used as an effects box for reverb and delay."

Jupiter 8 improvisation

Published on Nov 3, 2013

"I recorded an improvisation on my Jupiter 8 with a pyxis aftertouch system. I used an Eventide ModFactor for Chorus, a vintage delay on the Eventide TimeFactor, and a Hall reverb on the Eventide Space. I have the Jupiter set up as two layered patches which I fade between as things go on. This was all recorded directly into my DAW.

Aftertouch controls the filter cutoff, VCA level, and some vibrato. At one point I set it to allow me to bend oscillators individually. I have this switchable so they can bend in different directions if I want to do detuning effects with the aftertouch.

It starts with a classical feel with apologies to Brahms in the beginning and then things get moving. Rhythmic filter cutoff bouncing is done with the aftertouch as the mod lever sets the cutoff up and down around which the aftertouch filter control works. A nice effect to play with."

Prophet T8 Aftertouch Retrofit

Published on Jul 28, 2014 New England Analog LLC

Audio at 3:52.

"This is the second part of our video series on the Prophet T8. The first part dealt with replacing the badly degraded foam. This part addresses the replacement of all of the aftertouch boards with NEA T8 Aftertouch Boards. Our boards are a direct replacement for the original aftertouch boards, with identical multiplexing circuitry. The only difference is that we are using high quality, modern, FSR sensors which are superior to the originals. As the old sensors fail, they become less and less sensitive until the carbon is completely worn away. These new sensors will make your T8's aftertouch feel like new and the response will be even across the entire keybed. The complete set of replacement boards is $1100. The price is high because the sensors used aren't cheap and each board also gets hand assembled. If you'd like more information, or would like to order a set of boards for your T8 or Synclavier, please contact us."

Part 1 here.

Oberheim Four Voice with Pyxis Aftertouch

Published on Nov 17, 2013 New England Analog LLC·31 videos

"This video shows an Oberheim Four Voice Synthesizer with a NEA Modular Expander Cabinet and Pyxis Aftertouch. In this clip, all filter, pitch and volume modulation is being done with the aftertouch controller. When the aftertouch is engaged, vibrato is added to the VCOs, and the speed of the vibrato is proportional to the pressure applied. The VCF is also set to open up a little when the aftertouch is engaged. For more info on the aftertouch or the modular cabinet, check out our website www.NewEnglandAnalog.com or give our shop a call."

Prophet VS Power Supply Repair

Published on Oct 2, 2013 New England Analog LLC·29 videos

"Drew talks about a Prophet VS power supply issue. Many times the 5V supply on the VS can overheat or consume enough current to blow the fuse. Rebuilding the power supply often results in the same thing happening because the issue is that the chips in the VS are consuming more current than what they were spec'ed for in 1987. We developed a suitable workaround that fixes the problem."

Roland Jupiter-8 With NEA Pyxis Aftertouch System

Published on Sep 17, 2013 New England Analog LLC·27 videos

"This video shows a Roland Jupiter 8 with the New England Analog Pyxis aftertouch system. The purpose of this particular video is to show how you can disable the lower 4 voices on the JP8 so that aftertouch wont affect them. However, using the aftertouch sensor on the lower half of the keyboard can still affect how the aftertouch modulates the upper 4 voices. This creates some interesting effects. Using "whole" mode with the lower 4 voices disabled will produce a sound much like a CS80 or something with polyphonic aftertouch. On this particular Jupiter, there are two separate disable switches; one for disabling filter and VCA effects from Pyxis on lower 4 voices, and another for disabling Pyxis control of VCOs."