Introducing the AS Vocoder: True Analogue Vocoding from Analogue Solutions

video upload by Analogue Solutions

"The AS Vocoder is available as a standalone unit, or as an upgrade to your Colossus synthesizer.

The sounds heard in this video were made with the Colossus synthesizer and the AS Vocoder. Let this video serve as our official announcement. More demos to come!

What is the AS Vocoder?

Analogue Solutions proudly introduces the AS Vocoder, a powerful, full-analogue vocoder that blends authentic vintage inspiration with modern reliability. Designed and built with precision, the AS Vocoder brings the distinctive warmth and character of classic analogue vocoding into contemporary studio environments.

This vocoder is not a digital emulation—it’s the real deal, offering 100% analogue audio paths and modulation circuits. While the AS Vocoder draws design inspiration from vintage classics of the 1970s, such as iconic vocoder units used in groundbreaking electronic music, all circuits within the AS Vocoder are original Analogue Solutions designs.

The AS Vocoder analyses the spectral content of speech or any audio signal and uses it to modulate internal oscillators or external sound sources. It provides musicians, producers, and sound designers with the legendary vocoder effect, capable of generating harmonically rich, robotic, or melodic vocal textures.

There are no gimmicks, just pure, unadulterated analogue vocoding crafted in a rugged enclosure designed for studio integration and live performance reliability. With a premium build quality that includes a solid metal case and precision-engineered components, the AS Vocoder ensures durability and consistency for years to come.

The AS Vocoder will be available as a Colossus upgrade and as a standalone unit.

A Brief Word on Vocoders

The vocoder has long been a cornerstone of electronic music, offering a unique way to merge voice and machine. First brought into the musical spotlight by Kraftwerk in the 1970s, its robotic vocal textures became part of the sonic DNA of their work. Artists like Herbie Hancock and Daft Punk later embraced vocoders as creative tools to shape melodies and rhythms, not just voices—expanding their role in music production far beyond novelty.

With 12 bands of filtering, flexible routing, and envelope follower outputs, vocoders like the AS Vocoder allow you to impose the spectral content of one signal—often the human voice—onto another, such as a harmonically rich synth tone. This creates the classic “talking synth” effect, but also opens the door to more experimental textures when fed drums, noise, or sequenced tones. The AS Vocoder makes this process hands-on, with CV options and modular access points designed for deep integration and patch experimentation.

The AS Vocoder brings this classic effect into the Analogue Solutions ecosystem with true analogue character and modern usability. Designed as a standalone unit or to integrate directly into the Colossus console, it adds a new dimension to sound design—perfectly complementing Colossus’s vast modulation and audio-routing capabilities. Whether for vocals, drums, or synth lines, the AS Vocoder opens up a new layer of sonic potential."

Talking Bass | “Dream Weaver” by Gary Wright

video upload by Anthony Marinelli Music

"Let's break down the iconic synthesizer bass sound from Gary Wright’s iconic song "Dream Weaver". I’ll show you exactly how to recreate that unique, "talking" bass tone that happens in one of the most memorable chorus sections in synth history. I’ll also dive into how to adjust the sustain portion of the bass sound, for the variation that happens in the bridge—it's subtle but makes a huge difference in the overall vibe.

I had the pleasure of working with Gary one unforgettable summer—collaborating on a song for a movie and a couple of tracks for one of his albums. He was not only a gifted singer and songwriter but also an incredibly innovative electronic musician. Gary had a special kind of energy that made every session inspiring. I’m honored to share a bit of that magic form this wonderful person with you today.

Let’s dive in and give this classic bass sound the spotlight it deserves."

Moog Liberation Keytar Synth w/ Power Supply/Interface, Manual, Strap Points SN 1600X & 3332

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this listing

"Step into the spotlight with the legendary Moog Liberation, one of the first and most iconic keytars ever made. Released in 1980, this vintage analog synth gave keyboardists the freedom to break away from their rigs and take center stage alongside guitarists and vocalists. With its dual oscillators, rich Moog filter, and onboard modulation controls, the Liberation delivers that unmistakable, fat, and expressive Moog sound in a package designed for performance. The left-hand grip houses ribbon style pitch bend control, modulation, filter, and volume controls, allowing for real-time expression while you shred like a synth god.

This unit comes fully equipped with the Moog synth interface/power supply, the original manual, and strap mounting hardware for attaching your favorite guitar strap. If you'd like the straps mounted before shipping, just let us know! The Liberation connects to its external interface via a 20-foot cable, keeping your synth tones clear while letting you roam freely on stage. It features a classic Moog low-pass filter with resonance, a white noise generator, and polyphonic mode, making it versatile for both thick monophonic leads and layered textures. The build quality is rock-solid, with a sleek black design that screams vintage cool.

If you're looking to own a piece of synthesizer history, this Moog Liberation is your chance. Whether you're a collector, a synth enthusiast, or a performer looking to channel some serious 80s energy, this keytar delivers in both sound and style. Vintage Moogs hold their value incredibly well, and the Liberation is a rare find in such complete condition. Don’t miss out—grab this Liberation and break free from the keyboard stand!"

CLICK FOR MORE »

Introducing Novation Bass Station by GForce Software

video upload by GForce Software

"Novation and GForce are proud to announce the release of the GForce Bass Station, a brand-new software version of the original analogue synthesiser.

Bass Station is an iconic mono-synth, celebrated for its raw, punchy bass and distinctive analogue filter. First launched in 1993, it has been a core part of Novation's brand ever since.

The new GForce Bass Station AU / VST is an exact emulation of the original Bass Station, now with a new expanded mode, which includes up to 16-voice polyphony and unison modes, taking its versatility far beyond the monophonic hardware original.

More info at https://www.gforcesoftware.com/produc...

Credits
Reverb Machine - audio demo
Graeme Rawson - video production
Çağatay Çetin - 3D animation"

Novation Bass Station by GForce Walkthrough

video upload by GForce Software

00:00 - Intro
00:45 - Overview
02:22 - LFO
03:15 - Oscillators
06:32 - OSC Modulation
07:30 - Filter
08:30 - Envelopes
09:15 - Modulation
11:22 - XMods
14:15 - FX
17:10 - Controls
20:07 - Macros
21:07 - Sequencer
28:02 - Arpeggiator
29:01 - Settings
30:50 - Browser
33:30 - Collections
34:20 - Saving a Patch
35:25 - CC Mapping
36:15 - Undo / Redo

CLICK FOR MORE »

KRONOS Returns: The Next Generation of Music Workstations

video upload by Korg

"The next generation of music workstations is here—KRONOS has returned. With a fast boot time, an enhanced touchscreen, and a refined aesthetic design, this next-generation powerhouse sets a new standard in versatility and performance capabilities."

CLICK FOR MORE »

PERfourMER MKII Sync Session #1

video upload by vermonagear

"In this video, we’ll take a look at the PERfourMER MKII’s oscillator sync feature. This allows the VCOs to synchronize with the previous channel’s oscillator, creating sounds that can range from “cool and edgy” to “wake the neighbors.”

We’ve set up hard sync between the PERfourMER MKII’s channels one and two, and three and four. Only the synced channels (two and four) are in the spotlight here-their sync masters are quietly working hard in the background, like roadies at a rock concert.

We’ll run two simple MIDI sequences from **Logic Pro**, adding a little stock delay and reverb for flavor. First, you’ll hear channel two with a mellow triangle waveform, then channel four kicks in with a classic square wave-perfect for that sync sizzle. Finally, both channels join forces while we tweak a few knobs to keep things interesting."

EMS Polysynthi Analog Synthesizer

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this listing

CLICK FOR MORE »

Donner D1 - Your Intuitive Rhythm Partner

Spotlight video upload by Donner Music

The D1 made its first appearance at NAMM 2023.

Donner Essential D1 // a fun drum machine, especially if they fix a few issues // Review & tutorial

video upload by loopop

TIMELINE:
0:00 Intro
1:10 Overview
4:05 Song structure
6:35 Build
7:10 Connectivity
7:45 Common params
9:35 Per track params
10:35 Folders
11:30 Params 1 & 2
14:15 Sequencing
14:50 Step seq
15:50 Param locks
16:40 Sub steps
18:00 Undo
18:30 Fill sequencing
19:05 Recording live
20:15 Quantize
21:35 Swing
22:00 Saving songs
23:20 Mute/solo
24:10 Note repeats
24:30 Effects
26:00 Control app
26:20 Pros & cons
32:15 Factory sequences

New press release follows:

Donner Introduces Essential D1 Performance Beat Machine

Unleash Your Unlimited Imagination with the new Essential D1 — Your Intuitive Rhythm Partner

Los Angeles — July 17, 2024 — With a dedicated mission to empower musicians of all levels, Donner has proudly announced the official release of the Essential D1 Performance Beat Machine. Featuring both real-time recording and step sequencing workflow, the Essential D1 is engineered to inspire and open up a world of possibilities for both entry-level and advanced musicians venturing into the world of electronic music production and performing. The Donner ESSENTIAL D1 Performance Beat Machine is now available for purchase and ready for shipment since its first unveiling at NAMM 2023.

Versatile Sound Engine
The Essential D1's robust sound engine offers a world of sonic possibilities. With 12 tracks, each featuring 1 to 2 custom-designed effects, as well as two send effects (Delay + Reverb) and a Compressor on the Master Channel, sound manipulation has never been more dynamic.

Two Workflows in One
The Essential D1 effortlessly merges real-time recording and step sequencing workflows, providing an unrivaled platform for creative expression. Transition seamlessly between finger drumming and step sequencing to produce music with unparalleled fluidity.

Touch-sensitive Encoders
With the new Essential D1, players can fearlessly explore sound parameters using the five touchable endless encoders. Ensure precision while checking values, as a touch instantly displays parameter values on the LCD screen, providing clarity before any changes are made.

Factory Content by Loopmasters
In collaboration with leading sound design label Loopmasters, the Essential D1 includes factory content perfect for a variety of music genres especially electronic music. With 16 drum kits and 64 beat patterns upon device receipt, you're equipped to dive into music-making immediately.

Expand Your Setup
D1 isn't just a drum machine; it's a gateway to a comprehensive musical setup. As a standalone beat machine or paired with the Essential B1 Bass Synthesizer, the AUX IN connection and full-size MIDI I/O allow for seamless integration with your other gears.

Sample Import Functionality
Elevate your creativity by importing custom samples via the Donner Control software. The internal 4GB memory ensures ample space for your sonic innovations, enabling you to craft music that's uniquely yours.

Intuitive Color-Coded UI
Experience music-making without limits through the Essential D1's intuitive design. Each of the 12 tracks is assigned a unique color, enhancing visual memory when operating via the RGB pads and faders, letting your instincts guide your performance.

User-Friendly GUI
Navigating complex parameters is now a breeze thanks to the Essential D1’s LCD display and carefully crafted graphical user interface. Perfect for beginners, the Essential D1 empowers artists to focus on their craft with an intuitive beat machine.

Joranalogue Introduces Cycle 5 - New Compact Powerhouse VCO

For those attending SUPERBOOTH, you'll find Joranalogue at our their spot: booth W435 in the gymnasium.

Coming in Q3 2024.

A small Eurorack oscillator that packs a punch: that’s the best way to summarise Cycle 5.

At its heart lies a refined high-stability triangle core voltage controlled oscillator (VCO), with performance matching or exceeding that of much bigger and costly oscillator modules.

Instead of a coarse frequency knob, a 7-position octave switch is provided. This in combination with a perfect fifth transposition switch and factory pitch tuning, makes Cycle 5 an exceptionally straightforward and musical VCO to use: simply centre the fine tune knob, and the module will be instantly tuned to reference C.

Meanwhile, its dual precision volt per octave inputs add a great deal of versatility. For example, one could be used for pitch sequencing and the other as a generic exponential FM input, or both sequenced together for transposition effects—the dual inputs serving as a built-in precision adder.

Sporting all the classic waveforms, ranging from sine wave, triangle, saw and square/saw, as well as a hard sync input and low frequency oscillator (LFO) mode, Cycle 5 makes for a real workhorse VCO. The novel trigonometric waveshaper results in a very clean sine wave, ideal for sub bass duty.

Cycle 5’s highlight however, is its vari-wave feature. By adjusting the vari-wave knob, the waveform on the matching output will smoothly morph from sine, to triangle, saw, square and finally a very narrow pulse. The vari-wave parameter can be CV controlled, up to audio frequencies for some intense timbres.

Equally at home as a modest modulation companion to big VCOs, as being in the spotlight in miniature or polyphonic systems, Cycle 5 might just be the most multi-talented tiny analogue oscillator yet.

High-stability precision analogue triangle-core VC(LF)O.
Octave and perfect fifth switches—all intermediate frequencies can be reached using the front panel controls.
Dual volt per octave FM inputs.
Outputs: sine, triangle, saw, square/pulse (PWM) and vari-wave, smoothly morphing between all waveforms.
Reset (hard oscillator sync) input.
Wide frequency range: 48 mHz (20 seconds) to 3.7 kHz.
Don't waste time tuning: pre-tuned for 0 V = C.
Impedance-compensated outputs with dual-colour vari-wave LED.
Trim potentiometers accessible from the front panel.
Precision-milled 2 mm anodised aluminium front panel with high-resolution, non-erasable graphics.
Bullet-proof design: polarised power header and MOSFET protection circuit.
Includes 16-to-10-pin Eurorack power ribbon cable.
Premium mounting hardware: black screws, black nylon washers and matching hex key.
High-quality components and assembly; designed and made in Belgium.

As always check with your favorite dealers on the right for upcoming availability of all new modules and synths.

Artists Meet The UDO Super Gemini - 03: Tom Wijesinghe

video upload by UDO Audio

"Introducing Episode 3 of our Artists Meet Gemini video series, where we're thrilled to welcome Tom Wijesinghe, also known as Phil the Print, to the spotlight!

Tom is not only a close friend of UDO but also a ubiquitous session player in the Bristol area, renowned for his mastery of the Super 6 keyboard. With his expertise, we couldn't miss the opportunity to let him dive into our latest creation: the Super Gemini.

We hope you enjoyed the video!

Chapter:
0:00 - Intro
0:41 - What's new?
9:44 - Performance
16:34 - Outro"

NAMM 2024 - 4ms - Catalyst Sequencer + Controller

video upload by sonicstate

"At NAMM 2024, Sonic State engaged in a detailed conversation with Dan Green from the innovative company 4MS about their latest offerings in modular synthesis control. The spotlight was on the Catalyst Sequencer and the Catalyst Controller, two versatile tools for modular musicians. The Catalyst Sequencer, an eight-channel CV sequencer, stood out for its flexibility. Dan demonstrated its capabilities, showcasing features like step sequencing, note customization, glide adjustments, and the introduction of phase CV for navigating between locked-clock sequences and chaotic improvisation. With the ability to handle sequences of up to 64 steps and arrange them into pages, the Catalyst Sequencer provides a powerful and dynamic tool for crafting intricate modular compositions.

Following the Sequencer, Dan delved into the Catalyst Controller, an eight-channel macro controller designed to control various aspects of a modular setup. With scenes, crossfading, and real-time recording of slider motions, the Catalyst Controller becomes a central hub for managing multiple parameters. Dan emphasized its potential for live performances, preset management, and transitions between different configurations. The most intriguing aspect was the announcement that purchasing one of these modules unlocks both functionalities, creating a two-in-one concept.

Catalyst Sequencer. Available March 2024. Price 395 USD

Catalyst Controller. Available March 2024. Price 395 USD"

MJ’s “Beat It” - Hidden Machine Gun Sound

video upload by Anthony Marinelli Music

"In this Video I’ll show you how I made the 'Machine Gun Sound' in MJ’s 'Beat It'. It’s kind of a hidden sound, but it serves an important purpose in the orchestration of the song to create tension and energy just before Eddie Van Halen’s iconic guitar solo. This is one of many examples of the nuances that can be found in the arrangements of the songs on the album.

We’ll also shine the spotlight on Thriller engineer Bruce Swedien’s ability to know when and how to use a sound like this and when to get it out of the picture to create space for other sounds. This concepts can be applied to any style of music you are creating.

I made the original sound using an ARP 2600 & Dr. Click but you can re-create this sound on your VST with less effort.

00:00 Music Example of The Hidden 'Machine Gun Sound' on 'Beat It'
00:08 Intro
00:15 History of the "Machine Gun Sound"
00:46 Working with Michael Jackson on "Beat It"
02:14 Syncing the 16th note "Machine Gun Sound" to the drum beat
03:51 How to set the waveforms (VCO's)
05:02 How to set the Sample & Hold Generator (S&H)
05:19 How to set the Voltage Controlled Filter (VCF)
05:58 how to set the Voltage Controlled Amplifier (VCA)
07:35
07:49 How Bruce Swedien created Arrangements & Orchestrations when Mixing Thriller
09:57 understanding the concept of the "Machine Gun Sound" to re-create it on VST's
11:25 Full Music Example"

https://www.anthonymarinellimusic.com

See the Garfield Electronics label beloww for additional posts featuring the Doctor Click.

Lunar - Ambient Noise 🎄 (Arp 2600 m // Waldorf M + Red Panda Particle 2 // Arturia Keystep Pro)

video upload by 2-Minute Warning

"For the last video of 2023, I really wanted to spotlight the raw sound of the amazin ARP 2600 M 🤩
So throughout the whole track, you'll only hear the sound coming directly from the ARP 2600 M without any external effects, though I did use its onboard spring reverb (+ a bit of EQ/comp where used for mixing purposes).
Contrary to my previous (which was the first) video featuring the ARP which was an uptempo track, no beats or kick here! Only the ARP and the Waldorf M (+ Particle granular delay).
The same track from the Keystep Pro is sequencing both synths.

As you can see, I use some patching in this one for the ARP:
 - The VCF output is going through its preamp input to make the distorted sound you gradually hear (it's being played in parallel of the dry sound coming out from VCF output)
 - I also used the LFO to modulate the filter and pulse width of oscillator 2
 - I did did some patching as well, in order to play portamento with one of the ARP's oscillator (using the voltage processor "Lag Time")

* Hardware used *

// SYNTH:
 - Korg ARP 2600 M (semi modular analog synth) - RAW sound
 - Waldorf M (8-voice hybrid digital and analog wavetable) + Red Panda Particle v2 (digital granular delay)

// SEQUENCER:
 - Arturia Keystep Pro"

Introducing Spotlight Collection: Ireland | Native Instruments

video upload by Native Instruments

"Bring authentic Irish flavor to any composition with Spotlight Collection: Ireland. Recorded with care, it puts 11 traditional instruments at your fingertips, including the fiddle, bodhrán drum, tin whistle, Irish harp, and more. Loaded with a selection of scales and patterns, it's got all you need to craft and layer expressive performances in an instant.

Discover Spotlight Collection: Ireland: https://www.native-instruments.com/pr..."

8Dio Majestica Pro & Ultra Walkthrough

video upload by 8Dio

"Majestica Standard, Pro, & Ultra available now. Get them HERE: https://8dio.com/products/majestica

- - - - - -

0:00 - Majestica Pro & Ultra Trailer
0:21 - Majestica Pro & Ultra Scoring Teaser
0:52 - Intro with Troels
3:26 - Majestica Pro Overview
9:17 - Scoring Walkthrough
37:58 - Majestica Ultra Overview
42:42 - Majestica Ultra Walkthrough 1:05:44 - Outro

- - - - - -

One Orchestra To Rule Them All
Majestica Pro and Ultra are the same Majestica you know and love, and so much MORE! It is the largest symphony orchestra ever sampled, containing 240 players divided into 5 sections: strings (100), brass (60), high woodwinds (30), low woodwinds (30), and percussion (20). We upgraded it to our new user-friendly Century UI. We have also included our Polyphonic Legato and TM Pro Arcs in this iconic library.

Majestica Pro (formerly 8W: The Eighth Wonder, exclusive to our V8P members) boasts an expanded array of 5 extra microphone perspectives: a spacious Wide option as well as 4 distinct spot mixes per ensemble. These spot mics become your creative allies, enabling you to spotlight and accentuate individual instruments. Craving more prominence for the burning, brassy sound of the cimbassos in the brass ensemble? Eager to amplify the impact of those Bartok pizzicatos from the basses, or feel the rumbling contrabassoons resonate through your entire body? Simply dial in the spot mics for any instrument and open a realm of extreme sound within the grandeur of the largest orchestra ever assembled.

Majestica Ultra is the complete arsenal of this colossally epic orchestral library. Complete with the entire Majestica Pro orchestra and mic positions, it is also enhanced with dozens of synths curated specifically for film scores and epic music, dozens of ambiences, and Hybrid Cinematic Effects. Majestica Ultra is truly the ultimate "score-in-a-box."

Derived from our exclusive V8P sample catalogue, Majestica is designed for composers and producers that desire the ultimate, unrivaled, epic symphonic sound. We spared no expense and there is nothing like this on the market.

Majestica Ultra was recorded at 96kHz in the same large, world-class orchestral hall used for exclusive V8P series and 8Dio instruments such as CAGE, AGE, and Lacrimosa Epic Choir. It includes 3 microphone positions (Mixed, Decca and Far). The UI system for Majestica was built from scratch and contains over 35,000 lines of code giving you the ultimate experience in ease, flexibility, and playability."

Synth Stuff Ep. 84 - Korg DW-8000

video upload by tritonrecordings

"Before hitting a home run with the M1, Korg had the DW series which combined digital oscillators with analog filters. Much like the Ensoniq ESQ-1 or Kawai K3, it resulted in a sound that was digital, yet warm while companies like Roland and Oberheim were still making analog stuff. Eventually the D-50 and M1 would take the spotlight, but the DW-8000 is an underrated little gem. The built-in delay section is really good at thickening the sound. Here, I go through a handful of presets, some of them slightly modified, and a bit of reverb to liven things up a bit. Definitely a synth worth investigating if you come across a good deal on one. It's also worth mentioning that the MS2000/Microkorg feature the DW waveforms in them."

Introducing DONNER MEDO I Harness the Magic of Notes, Unleash Creativity at Your Fingertips

video uploads by Donner Music

Playlist:
DONNER MEDO I Harness the Magic of Notes, Unleash Creativity at Your Fingertips I Donner Spotlight
Let`s discover the Donner MEDO I Donner Music I MEDO synthesizer
MEDO-tutorial
MEDO LOOP
Donner MEDO: Unboxing & Demonstration
Donner MEDO Demonstration: Sample

"Donner Launches a Kickstarter Campaign for its New Musical Device MEDO

The $169 Portable Integrated Synth, Sampler, Looper, and MIDI Controller Launches on Kickstarter on October 5th.

[Los Angeles, CA, October 5, 2023] - Donner, the Chinese musical instrument manufacturer, is launching a Kickstarter campaign today for its latest creation, MEDO, priced at $169, exclusively available on Kickstarter from October 5th to November 10th. MEDO is a compact, portable, standalone musical instrument that seamlessly combines a sampler, synthesizer, looper, MIDI controller, and a speaker, enabling anyone to capture inspiration and create music instantly.

Equipped with a built-in microphone and a robust sound engine, MEDO can record up to 5 seconds of audio, allowing for quick sound sampling and the initiation of a creative journey. Users can easily switch between various modes, including SCALE, DRUM, BASS, CHORD, and LEAD, to begin making music immediately. Supporting 128-bar loop recording, MEDO offers a broader spectrum of possibilities for music creation, catering to both beginners and professional musicians alike. The quantize feature ensures that your performance is automatically synchronized perfectly to the beat, taking care of all the timing intricacies.

With the MEDO Synth app by Donner, users can swiftly toggle between various preset sounds, including 15 sets of drum kit sounds by Loopmasters, and benefit from a powerful sound engine that combines subtractive synthesis and authentic samples. It's not just a synthesizer; it's a pocket-sized beat-making powerhouse.

MEDO is both compact and lightweight, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor creative sessions, allowing you to unleash your musical creativity at any time and in any place. Furthermore, MEDO can be seamlessly connected to common DAW software and hardware, providing advanced music production tools and gameplay options. It is compatible with most MIDI applications and all major digital audio workstation software that supports MIDI.

The MEDO Kickstarter campaign opens to backers on October 5th at 9 a.m. Eastern Time, with an early bird pricing of $149 (available only on October 5th). The campaign will run until November 10, 2023, offering Kickstarter backers a discounted price of $169.

With MEDO, Donner will also exhibit at the 2023 Music China, taking place in Shanghai, China. To experience MEDO, visit the Donner booth # W5C52 and Tech+ Music Lab in the Shanghai New International Expo Center from October 11-14. For more information, please visit: Donnermusic.com"

Isotonik PRODUCER SPOTLIGHT - DILLON BASTAN

video upload by Isotonik Studios

"PRODUCER SPOTLIGHT - In the first of a series we're shining a light on one of the long term members of the Isotonik Collective, DILLON BASTAN...

Check the Homepage for a line up of his top releases - isotonikstudios.com"

Akai Introduces the MPC X Special Edition

MPC Cookup ep. 1 with Jermaine Dupri | Akai Professional

video uploads by AkaiProVideo

Akai MPC X SE // Top 3 Pros & Cons vs MPC Live II, One, Key 61, Studio // XSE Special Edition Review

video upload by loopop

TIMELINE:
0:00 Intro
1:00 Similarities
2:40 MPC X vs SE
3:40 Q-Links knobs
7:30 Connectivity
10:05 Battery/speaker
10:30 More buttons
12:25 Screen
13:45 Pads
14:15 Touch strip
14:45 Keys
15:20 Storage
15:50 Pros & cons
18:25 Outro



Press Release follows:

AKAI PROFESSIONAL® CELEBRATES 35 YEARS OF MPC WITH THE NEW MPC X SPECIAL EDITION- THE MOST POWERFUL MPC EVER!

The MPC X Special Edition commemorates 35 years of innovative sampling, sound, and sequencing technology from AKAI, the premier name in music production.

Ft Lauderdale, FL USA (April 26, 2023) – Akai Professional, a leading musical equipment and computer software manufacturer for performers and producers, is proud to unveil MPC X Special Edition. MPC X SE steps into the spotlight with more internal storage and memory than ever. Additionally, MPC X SE boasts flagship tactile control to make it the most powerful MPC system ever. With a stylish retro color way, MPC X SE culminates as the high point of the leading name in music production.

35 Years of sampling and Innovation.

MPC has pushed the limits of hardware music creation time and time again. In every generation, leading music makers need technology that can keep up with the speed of their inspiration and the needs of their creativity. MPC continues to lead the way with innovative features and advancements, magically bringing music to life. From Note Repeat and 16 Levels for the hip-hop heads to the infectious Swing for electronic drum grooves and patterns. MPC has been at the ground level of hit song after hit song thanks to its powerfully capable technology.

Today, the standalone MPC platform continues to build on that legacy with seamless touchscreen technology, more I/O than ever to tie an entire production suite together, along with wireless integration like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and Ableton Link 3 allowing you to make music without any constraint.

The Most Powerful MPC Ever

The rock-solid quad-core processor cements MPC X SE as the leading modern music-making device enhanced with an impressive 4GB of RAM onboard. This delivers more sampling and recording power than ever before. Instantly load instruments, samples to large projects with ease thanks to the increased memory, perfect for studio sessions or on stage between songs. Save large projects, sequences, drum programs to your beats instantly with the expanded 48GB of internal storage without ever interrupting your workflow.

MPC X SE is the only MPC with 2 In/4 Out MIDI to connect all your synths, keyboards, modules and more. The massive 10” adjustable touch screen is the perfect display for those long creative sessions. 16 assignable Q Link knobs with OLEDs provide immediate visual feedback and to any program, instrument, or insert effect parameter for instant hands-on control of your sound. For the high-pace creators tied to a busy schedule, MPC workflow keeps you ahead of the game with an intuitive and efficient creative process.

Legendary Hardware, Cutting-Edge Software



Through the years, the 16-pad MPC grid has been the default input method for MPC. Revel in the nostalgic gray pad color of these new-generation pads that feature RGB backlit edges and pressure-sensitive response. Tap out rhythms, melodies, or chords with ease thanks to the Notes and Chords modes, perfect for playing the thousands of built-in instruments. MPC X SE features a premier collection of instruments including the award-winning flagship “Fabric XL” power-synth, Stage Piano, OPx4 FM synth and much more. MPC has evolved with the contemporary music-maker by adding not only sounds and functionality but also world-class insert effects for processing. Explore a wide collection of plugins like Stutter, Granulator, Half Speed, the AIR Vocal Effects suite, MotherDucker, AMP Sim and so much more. When you need to expand your palate, browse the MPC store and update your MPC X SE with new plugin instruments like Mini D synthesizer or Flavor Pro multi-effects processing unit to breathe new life into your machine. Thanks to the enabled WiFi, update your device wirelessly in mere moments.

Senior Akai Professional product manager Dan Gill shared “The journey for MPC has been a labor of love. We strive every day to deliver the tools that will empower all music-makers, from our life-long MPC users who trust and rely on their MPCs to keep up with their daily music grind, down to the newest members of the MPC community who look to the MPC legend as they foray into their nascent musical endeavors. MPC X Special Edition is a tribute to where we’ve come from, what we’ve accomplished, and marker of the next chapter of innovatory, ground-breaking music product development.”

Key Feature Bullets

• Standalone MPC - No computer required

• MPC Plugin Collection- 20+ MPC Instruments

• 48GB Internal Storage (over 16GB for User Storage)

• 4GB RAM for Sampling and Audio Recording

• 100+ Insert Effects from AIR Music Tech

• Adjustable 10.1” Multi-Gesture Touch Screen

• 16 Assignable Q Link Knobs

• Iconic ‘Retro’ MPC Colorway

• Includes MPC 2 Desktop software for Mac and PC.

Launch Info

MPC X Special Edition will be available worldwide on Wednesday April 26, 2023 for $2499. Visit akaipro.com to learn more.

KORG ARP ODYSSEY FS KIT Incoming

"Become a part of the legacy with the ARP ODYSSEY FS Kit.

In 2015, ARP’s history was thrust into the spotlight with the revival of the ARP Odyssey. Synth fans around the world were ecstatic–authentic reissues of some of the most iconic and legendary ARP synthesizers would finally be revealed. From the ARP ODYSSEY FS with its full-size keyboard, to the long awaited ARP 2600 FS and ARP 2600 M, ARP synths once again stood at the forefront of the modern music scene.

Now, with the release of the ARP ODYSSEY FS Kit, musicians are empowered to take the ARP legacy into their own hands.

Staying true to the ARP Odyssey FS, the kit uses the exact analog circuitry, preserving the original warm and rich sounds we’ve all grown to love. The kit also features all the original specs of the Rev. 3 model with a full-size keyboard and a black panel design with orange lettering. And to facilitate assembly of the Odyssey, a pictorial guide is included; no technical knowledge or soldering is needed.

The ARP Odyssey FS Kit is a one-of-a-kind collectors’ instrument. To commemorate the unique experience of building it yourself, it is distinguished from any other ARP Odyssey with its own serial number engraved into an elegant metal plate.

With this kit, not only will you be able to get the coveted ARP sound that legendary musicians have been using for the last 50 years, you will also be able to create it with your own hands. We hope that you will make this special ARP ODYSSEY a one-of-a-kind instrument just for you."

"Free bundle of music software

The ARP ODYSSEY FS Kit comes with a diverse variety of music software from Izotope including “Ozone Elements” which lets you not only create songs but also master them using AI, “Skoove” which will help you improve your keyboard playing skills, “Reason Lite” DAW software, as well as software synths from KORG and other brands.

In other words, the moment you get your hands on this synthesizer you'll have a variety of tools to help you take your music to the next level."

via Korg