Digitone 2 tutorial: Firmware 1.10 made arpeggiators more interesting!

video upload by Sineway

"Arpeggiators don't need to be boring with the Digitone 2!

Elektron just released a new 1.10 firmware update for the Digitone 2. This tutorial showcases some small but useful new arp features that help make your arps less repetitive and also let you discover new sections of a song. This is part of a series of tutorials for the Digitone 2, so please subscribe if you're interested in more educational content like this.

The pattern used for this tutorial can be downloaded from Patreon: / 125477153"

ALAN R. PEARLMAN FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES NEW BOARD MEMBER Stephen DeJesus

Press release follows:

ALAN R. PEARLMAN FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES NEW BOARD MEMBER
The ARP Foundation Continues to Strengthen its Mission
Kingston, NY, JANUARY 24, 2025 – The Alan R. Pearlman Foundation has welcomed a new appointee to its Board of Directors: Stephen DeJesus

Stephen DeJesus is a professional engineer and long time synthesizer enthusiast located in Boston, MA. First introduced to synthesizers in a tiny electronic music studio at Boston University in the 80's, the Arp 2500 and Arp 2600 synthesizers encountered there launched a lifelong interest in performing and producing electronic music on a broad assortment of synthesizers. Current musical efforts are focused on sequenced and generative music created on modular synthesizers in the Eurorack environment. Steve is an active participant and performer in the Boston synth community and volunteers his time for the ARP Foundation as the local curator for the Arps For All program, providing unprecedented public access to vintage ARP synthesizers, including the recently acquired ARP 2500.

"We’re very excited to welcome this talented professional into our Board of Directors," said Dina Pearlman-Ifil, founder and Executive Director of the ARP Foundation and daughter of Alan R. Pearlman. "Stephen has been working boots on the ground at our project ARPs for All at Boston’s TRC, and has been invaluable in working with our educational resources”

The ARP Foundation continues its work with contributors, collaborators, vendors, manufacturers, venues, and synthesizer owners to provide music students with access to vintage ARP synthesizers to explore the endless possibilities of electronic music. The Foundation relies on donors to continue its mission, and encourages everyyone who understands the importance of music education to visit www.alanrpearlmanfoundation.com to learn more and pledge their support.

On #Giving Tuesday: Celebrating the Centennial of Alan R Pearlman's Birthday

video upload by Alan R. Pearlman Foundation

"Thank YOU for a stellar year!

The Alan R. Pearlman Foundation prepares for an even greater landmark year in 2025!

Dina Pearlman-Ifil
This #GivingTuesday, we are kicking off our Centennial Fund Drive, with the goal of raising funds for the Centennial Celebration that starts in 2025, a hundred years after the birth of Alan R Pearlman, born on June 7, 1925.

For the next 24 hours, we’re joining thousands of organizations around the world on this day of giving. We are so grateful that you've been with us for the ride so far, and hope you will continue to join us.

We are seeking to raise funds with a goal of $50,000 for this broad-scope initiative.

Your donations will:
Create a traveling, interactive exhibition for several partnering museums and organizations

Help us produce a new, historical video about Alan R Pearlman which will need post-production and licensing fees for the soundtrack.

Purchase the rights to publish rare photos from a photographer who visited the ARP Instruments factory in the late seventies

Publish a collaborative musical compilation

Travel globally with an educational lecture series.

Repair and upkeep of the synthesizers in our current programs ARPs for All

Sponsor a second Resident in our Alan R Pearlman Residency program.
We hope you will consider a tax-deductible donation. No gift is too small. Our $5 a month sustaining donors have helped us keep the lights on with our monthly expenses.

Donate Today for our Centennial Celebration Fund Drive"

Machina Bristronica 2024

video uploads by sonicstate

Playlist:

1. Bristronica 24: MyVolts The Silent Alchemist Nears Shipping

We caught up with Caroline who gave us the latest update to the *Silent Alchemist*, a versatile power hub designed for musicians. Featuring five isolated USB-C outputs and a high-wattage sixth output capable of delivering 100 watts, the device can power a Mac with the remaining outputs providing 20 watts each. Its independent circuits ensure noise-free operation, catering to a variety of devices including the Dreadbox module and Sysmo slope generator.

The Silent Alchemist uses innovative step-up power tips to convert USB-C input to the correct voltage for various devices. There's also new feature: an uninterruptible power supply allowing seamless transition between wall and power bank sources. Also introduced were updated cables, such as silver candy cords and floating ring TRS to TS cables, expanding connection flexibility. The Silent Alchemist is expected to be available in December with a competitive pricing strategy.

More Info:
https://myvolts.com/

2. Bristronica 24: Circuit Happy ML2M Clock Sync module updates

At Bristronica 2024, we caught up with the creator of the *ML2M*, who introduced us to the latest version. The ML2M is a compact Eurorack module with Wi-Fi capabilities, allowing seamless synchronization with Ableton Live, Bitwig Studio, and iOS music apps using Ableton Link without the need for cables. It either connects to an existing network or creates its own, ensuring robust sync even in environments with unreliable Wi-Fi. The module, which retains its 2HP size, now features MIDI integration through TRS jacks. Users can access a web interface to configure each output for different clock divisions and reset triggers, making setup straightforward and flexible.

Alongside the ML2M, there's also the Missing Link Junior. This desktop version offers the same functionality but in a box format, complete with MIDI and CV clock outputs. Both products are now accessible, with a starting price of $250.

3. Bristronica 24: Archaea Exchange Patching Module

At Machina Bristronica 2024, we caught up with Arran from ‪@archaea_modular_synthesis‬ who presented the *Exchange Module*. This programmable patcher, a year in the making, evolved from its early prototype stage to a fully functional module. Arran explained how the Exchange can route synth voices via a beam controller and three exchange modules installed within the skiff, allowing for versatile patching. Operating like a matrix patchbay, it enables users to select inputs and outputs with the push of a button, create presets, and chain multiple modules for synchronized patching.

Communication between the modules occurs over the Eurorack power bus as well as over MIDI via the USB-C connection. The Exchange maintains analog integrity, ensuring there’s no conversion latency. The forthcoming release expected in late November 2024, includes a USB-driven editor for enhanced control capabilities.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Alan R Pearlman Foundation Call To Artists: Open Submissions

via The Alan R Pearlman Foundation

"What Would You Do With A Studio Full of Rare Synthesizers + State of the Art Recording Gear + Room and Board for Five Days?

The Residency at the ARPs for All Project program is a new collaboration between the Alan R. Pearlman Foundation’s ARPS for All program and The Record Co, a well-known and beautifully renovated music facility in Boston. The Record Co features incredible recording and performance spaces plus a wonderfully-curated collection of vintage ARP synthesizers, including the only publicly-available ARP 2500 in the USA.

The Alan R. Pearlman Foundation’s mission is to make ARP’s classic and groundbreaking synthesizers widely available in order to inspire future generations of musicians. This Residency is a natural expression of our goals. While creating a unique musical work with our support, our chosen recipient will inspire emerging musicians to follow their own muse, making use of the same classic ARP synths. Through this program, the recipient will have the opportunity to not only take an important next step in their own career, but also to give something back to the music community.

Based on the submission form, the Foundation will select and support an artist in the creation of a special musical work incorporating the vintage ARP synthesizers at The Record Co. The end result could be a full album, a single song, a synth-backed video project, a series of synth tutorial videos, or another concept that inspires you to create.

HERE'S HOW THE PROGRAM WORKS!

The recipient will have access to The Record Co facilities and gear, the current ARPs for All Instrument collection, and 5 days of time. The space boasts an impressive collection of recording studios, production suites, sought-after equipment, and knowledgeable engineers to help amplify your creative process.

The chosen recipient will receive:
5 days of studio time at The Record Co
Hotel accommodations for the duration of the residency
Per diem for meals
Orientation at the studio
Educational materials from the ARP Foundation
Ongoing public recognition from The Record Co. and the Alan R. Pearlman Foundation
A fantastic creative experience with creative minds of every experience level

The recipient will be chosen by a committee of music industry leaders with notable achievements in the field of synthesis. During the review process, the identities of applicants will be hidden from the committee. The recipient will be selected based on their existing body of work, as well as on the project they intend to work on during their residency.

AMONG THE COMMITEE ARE ESTEEMED AUDIO PROFESSIONALS INCLUDING:
Anthony Marinelli
Panic Girl
Lisa Bella Donna
David Baron

THE RESIDENCY SCHEDULES ARE AS FOLLOWS:
Option 1: October 29-November 2, 2024
Option 2: December 3-7, 2024
Option 3: March 4-8, 2025
*The last day of the residency will be a performance, presentation, listening party!

RESIDENCY APPLICATION & SUBMISSION DETAILS:
The Residency Application Form on the Foundation Website
Please read the application & requirements (including the terms and conditions)
Fill out the form and submit examples of your existing work along with a proposal of the project you’d like to create

Submission Deadline: Monday September 16, 2024"

ARP Modular Synthesizer Lab (aka MSL) #33 Model 1509 VCA

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

via this auction

"Extremely rare vintage ARP MSL Model 1509 VCA parts.

For a description of the ARP Modular Synthesizer Lab (aka MSL), see http://synthmuseum.com/arp/arpmsl01.html 'The MSL was designed for classroom instructional use, a cheap alternative to the 2600, this system consists of individual battery-powered modules similar to those found in the second generation of ARP Odysseys. The basic setup included the keyboard and the VCO (modules 1504), VCF (module 1506), envelope (module 1506) and a battery operated amplifier/speaker modules. Also available were modules for LFO, VCA (module 1509 in this listing), noise(module 1503), sample-and-hold (module 1507), ring modulator, multiple (module 1510), and mixer/atenuator. The modules are connected by mini cables (grey, yellow, or red), and were designed to be used with or without a keyboard. ARP sold each module for between $40 (for the multiple module 1510) to around $70. The keyboard sold for around $175. They drafted workbooks, one for each module, with a comprehensive teacher's manual.'

You can find additional posts featuring ARP's Educational modules here. EML also had a version of their own featured here.

EML 101 Classic Synthesizer

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

via this auction

CLICK FOR MORE »

MUSONICS ACQUIRES STG SOUNDLABS, SHIPS 902 VCA REVISION

muSonics is back.

First a little background from Wikipedia:

"1971–1977: Moog Musonics, Moog Music, Inc.

In November 1971, rival company muSonics bought R. A. Moog, Inc. and relocated the company to Williamsville, New York. An old factory at the north end of Academy Street was purchased. The company was renamed Moog Musonics, then Moog Music, Inc.[3]

In 1972, former televangelist and successful salesman David VanKouvering joined the company as VP of Marketing, creating a network of retail stores throughout the United States and then the entire world.[5] Despite the increased commercial success the company saw with the introduction of the Minimoog than with previous products, competition with contemporary manufacturers such as ARP Instruments, Oberheim Electronics, and Electronic Music Studios drove the company steadily deeper into debt.[6][7] Moog Music, Inc. was ultimately sold to Norlin Industries in 1973. At this point, rival companies such as the aforementioned ARP Instruments were producing both monophonic and polyphonic synthesizers that rapidly outpaced the Moog in popularity. By 1975, ARP owned 40% of the synthesizer market share, effectively boxing out Moog Music, Inc.[8]

In 1976, Norlin moved the company to a facility on Walden Avenue in Cheektowaga. In 1977, once his contract with Norlin expired, Robert Moog officially left the company to pursue his own ventures, founding the firm Big Briar.[9]"

---

And the press release for the new muSonics:

For Immediate Release

January 23, 2023

Chillicothe, Illinois - muSonics has acquired very failed Eurorack manufacturer STG Soundlabs in a private equity trade valued at 6 million Dogecoin. Based in the greater Buffalo area, muSonics is America's oldest synthesizer company whose first instrument, the Sonic V educational synthesizer, is highly-regarded as one of the most reliable analogue instruments of the 1970s.

Suit & Tie Guy, former STG Soundlabs president and newly appointed CEO of the merged company, STG muSonics, was quoted as saying “I’m excited to be an important part of a history-rich American brand such as muSonics, which exists in a unique category alongside names like Abercrombie & Fitch, Montgomery Ward, and Radio Shack."

The first STG muSonics product, the Voltage Controlled Amplifier in the American modular synthesizer format, is currently available at Noisebug of Pomona, California. It is the final revision of the Voltage Controlled Amplifier made by muSonics in the early 1970s as part of their very famous and well-regarded modular synthesizers. Updates and improvements include 15 volt power support, selectable AC coupling, and a new shallow profile of less than 2 inches behind the front panel.

Pending the completion of the acquisition, muSonics will be moving from their current office, a vintage dumpster located behind the Wegman’s grocery store in Williamsville, New York, to downtown Chillicothe, Illinois, making it possibly the only company moving to the state this year.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Live annotated eurorack emotional cinematic synthwave, ARP-2600, Moog, OB-6 Tangerine Dream inspired

video upload by EthanJamesMusic

"This is a live cinematic synthwave electronic music performance inspired by later Tangerine Dream music, where I wanted to setup a more meditative environment and create a slow musical progression by interweaving layers with the Eurorack, using the electric bass as a guitar type of instrument, providing bass from the Moog Grandmother, chords from the DSI OB-6, and texture from the ARP-2600, and more texture from the Buchla 208c Easel Command. This is an entirely live and unrehearsed improvised performance, and I included annotations to show some of what I'm thinking about and also to demonstrate the different musical themes weaving in and out of the texture Since I'm a film composer by trade, this came out relatively cinematic and would work in certain movie score settings. This is a very simple setup to make a big sound. I hope this is educational for you as well, in terms of how I put these performances together. Hopefully this camera angle also helps you learn something!

Patch Notes:
Eurorack:
Stillson Hammer running at x6 multiply but using 1:1 gate from 0-ctrl to make bass. Two envelopes, one to VCA, one to filter.
Tempi clock divider running two channels of Make Noise René. First channel is to Dixie II oscillator to Jove filter to Erberverb. Second is to Serge NTO to Serge VQVCF to Echophon. I'm using a x4 clock divider to the Y channel, which is 1:1 to the VCA gate, but I'm using the C channel gate to the filter, which creates an interesting rhythm.

Moog Grandmother:
Normalled patch

ARP-2600:
3 oscillators tuned in octaves.

DFAM:
Pitch to Noise volume to create snare.

OB-6:
Polysaw chord setting"

Live annotated eurorack Tangerine Dream inspired cinematic synthwave, ARP-2600, Moog, OB-6

video upload by EthanJamesMusic

"This is a live cinematic synthwave electronic music performance inspired by later Tangerine Dream music, where I wanted to setup a more meditative environment and create a slow musical progression by interweaving layers with the Eurorack, providing bass from the Moog Grandmother, chords from the DSI OB-6, and melody from the ARP-2600. This is an entirely live and unrehearsed improvised performance, and I included annotations to show some of what I'm thinking about and also to demonstrate the different musical themes weaving in and out of the texture Since I'm a film composer by trade, this came out relatively cinematic and would work in certain movie score settings. This is a very simple setup to make a big sound. I hope this is educational for you as well, in terms of how I put these performances together. Hopefully this camera angle also helps you learn something!"

ARPchives LIVE Special Birthday Edition "In His Words"

video upload by Alan R. Pearlman Foundation

Features the ARP 2600 assembly line. Note the Blue Marvin / Blue Meanie.

"(NOTE: These videos are for historical preservation and EDUCATIONAL purposes only. )

We are very excited to release 'The Lost ARP Tapes,' recently discovered footage that had been buried in decades worth of television. Join us Tuesday, June 7th on our YouTube channel to watch them live and celebrate Alan Pearlman’s birthday.

We will be having several releases. featuring footage from the 1970s of demos, two different ARP factories, Alan R. Pearlman, Phil Dodds, David Friend, David Frederick, and Tom Piggot! Not seen in 45+ years!

Included in these sessions will be other rare footage of Alan R. Pearlman speaking in later years (not in any other documentary) as well as contemporary interviews with ARP employees"

And via Dina Pearlman in the ARP Foundation mailing list:

Today is my father's birthday

Alan R. Pearlman would have been 97 today! Because he was born in 1925, he remembered the George Washington Bridge being built, the Great Depression, was a World War II vet.. he worked on the early NASA projects, saw the first person on the moon. And he built one of the most famous synthesizers in the world.

With celebrating my father's birthday we also recognize our future—the kids who love their STEM classes, the musicians who have aspirations to make music, or the filmmakers who wish to make soundtracks.

This summer we are trying to raise a minimum of $15,000 for the following projects:

ARPs for ALL - insurance, restoration and repair of instruments

ARPchives including scanning, digitizing and licensing rights to rare photos. See also: Google's Music Makers and Machines!

Our first residency at ARPs for ALL (estimated $10,000 for housing, transportation and engineering assistance) Grantwriter(s)

We will also be holding our Fall Synthposium and Fundraiser 2022: A Fifty Year ARP Odyssey!

READ the Synthposium Press Release

We hope you will consider making a tax deductible donation to The Alan R Pearlman Foundation

My father was a mentor. In his tradition, The Alan R. Pearlman Foundation is dedicated to preserving his legacy to inspire others, and to provide them with the tools to do so with our ARPs for ALL projects as well as our ARPchives that include Hot off the Press!

This year we have located some lost ARP tapes premiering on YouTube later today [above] (more coming later this summer) We have also located some rare photographs, but we have to purchase them, so this is part of our goals for this latest fundraiser.

Read the 'Lost ARP Tapes' Press Release

KORG NTS-2 Oscilloscope Kit w/ PATCH & TWEAK

NTS-2 + PATCH & TWEAK with KORG: A message from Kim Bjorn video upload by Korg

"KORG, in collaboration with noted publisher Bjooks, ('PUSH TURN MOVE', 'PATCH & TWEAK' series...) is proud to present a fascinating KORG and ARP synth exploration experience in the form of this special, limited edition Bundle.

This bundle combines the NTS-2, a powerful new tool optimized for a variety of studio tasks, and the “PATCH & TWEAK with KORG” book, a comprehensive look at semi-modular synthesis through the lens of KORG and ARP’s iconic synthesizers. Along with a multitude of artist interviews, patch tips, tutorials, historical explorations, and more, this book will teach you how to put the NTS-2’s power to work in your studio as a companion to your synthesizers and audio gear.

Synth beginners and seasoned musicians alike will find the journey not just educational, but also inspirational and full of new discoveries."

Nu:Tekt NTS-2 Oscilloscope Kit - Assembly Tutorial

video upload by Korg

"Easily build the NTS-2, analyze sounds, and create—it's fun, and functional!

The NTS-2 offers a four-channel input oscilloscope to monitor and analyze audio and CV signals, a flexible dual wave generator, an FFT spectrum analyzer, as well as a tuner.

*All parts and tools are included; no soldering.

More Information here:

https://www.korg.com/products/dj/nts_..."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Bob Moog Fondation 2022 - 2023 18 Month Calendar

via Signal Sounds, available here

The Bob Moog Fondation is a charitable organisation, based in Anaheim, North Carolina, just a few streets away from the current Moog factory. It acts both as a archive for Bob's work over the years, a museum to show the timeline of his inventions (and more general synth developement) and an educational resource for schools providing hands on experience for children and adults.

Imgaine you had to do all those things? It's pretty certain you'd quickly lose track of what day it is, what week it is or even what month it is (signs of recognition and enthusiastic ndoding from fellow COVID brain fog peepz at the back of the crowd)?

What you would need in that case is.....a calendar! Obviously you can get calendars with amazing inspritation quotes, beautifull sunsets and cute animals but what if you could get an unbelievalbe nerdy synth related calander featuring 18 of the world's most influential synth designers? That would be pretty freakin' cool, no?

"We are proud to announce the release of our epic 2022 Synthesizer Pioneers 18-month calendar, which honors 18 innovators in the field of synthesis from the past 60 years. This is the fifth calendar released by the Foundation focusing on the rich history of Bob Moog’s legacy and the web of innovation in synthesis to which he was connected.

This calendar is the first to bring to the fore the historic achievements of synthesizer pioneers from all over the world. It features:

Harry Olsen and Herbert Belar (RCA)
Harald Bode
Raymond Scott
Bob Moog
Don Buchla
Peter Zinovieff (EMS)
Alan R. Pearlman (ARP)
Ikutaro Kakehashi (Roland)
Fumio Mieda (KORG)
Tom Oberheim
Dave Smith
Roger Linn
Wolfgang Palm (PPG)
Dave Rossum
Peter Vogel and Kim Ryrie (Fairlight)
Ray Kurzweil
Felix Visser (Synton)
Makoto Fukuda (Casio)
Many of the pioneers have contributed historic photos of themselves, with their hallmark inventions from their private archives. Also included within the calendar are scores of dates of particular historic importance provided by the pioneers. A brief narrative is included with each photo.

The 18-month calendar also weaves together connections between Bob Moog and many of the featured pioneers. His relationships with them ranged from inspiration to friends to colleagues to business associates. Secondary photos on many of the pages highlight that connection, showing Bob with his fellow pioneers.

The 18-month calendar is printed on #80 stock paper, making the images suitable for framing after the year is over!

This is the first time any of the Moog Foundation's products have been availabe outside of the USA so we're pretty happy to be able to bring it to you, and a portion of the profits are re-invested in the Bob Moog Foundation so it's a win/win situation.

The calander runs from Jan 2022 until May 2023 (and before you ask, we have no idea why it's an 18 month calendar...maybe they're just relaly indecisive and couldn't cut the list of synth pioneers down from 18 to 12?) and is available right now, right here.

ARP-2600, Moog Grandmother live cinematic Tangerine Dream inspired synthwave annotated performance

video upload by EthanJamesMusic

"I wanted to do a live synthwave performance with annotations that show what I'm thinking as I create these. Almost everything on my channel is an improvisation, so I'm thinking on both music theory and technical levels at all times. This starts with static arpeggios and utilizes modal shifting to create the chord progressions. I'm using a fairly simple setup of just the Moog Grandmother and the ARP-2600, so that the text can follow the music. The arpeggios are inspired by new Tangerine Dream electronic music. Since I'm a film composer by trade, this came out relatively cinematic and would work in certain movie score settings. I hope this is educational for you as well, in terms of how I put these performances together."

How to discover SYNTH GEMS

video upload by peter m mahr

"Making of SYNTH GEMS1. The new book of BJOOKS.

https://bjooks.com/blogs/blog/all-abo...

SYNTH GEMS 1
Written by Mike Metlay
Concept, and design: Kim Bjørn
Editing team: Chris Meyer, Marc Doty, Gordon Reid, Collin Russell and Kim Bjørn
Copy editing: Diana Smethurst
Image editing: Kim Bjørn
Additional image editing and illustration: Natascha Bondo Bjørn"

"Text from the back cover:

SYNTH GEMS 1 is your guide to an eclectic and amazing collection of synthesizers as art. Experience the history, technology, and sonic innovation of electronic music in a completely new way.

With their widely diverse designs and intentions, synthesizers offer a world of fascination. What thoughts and emotions guided their creators? What do they say about the era when they were created? How do their form and function define one another, and the music they make?

As much for serious synth enthusiasts as for newcomers to electronic music, SYNTH GEMS 1 is an enlightening look into this wonderful world of vintage synthesizers.

An art gallery of electronic aesthetics

SYNTH GEMS 1 takes you on a tour of over 60 remarkable keyboards — large and small, famed and rare, elegant, beautiful, and brutal… and ranging from classics that define entire genres to rare oddities that bring their own grace to the world.

Each synthesizer is presented in a series of finely detailed photographs, with a discussion of its origins and importance. From the dawn of commercial synthesis to the close of the Twentieth Century, the lives and times of these unique instruments are chronicled in exquisite pictures and thoughtful stories – mingling music, technology, commerce, and visual art.

Meet the synthesizer

Besides a brief introduction to the basic elements of synthesizer design, as well as a comprehensive Glossary, the book is rounded out by tours of the three museums that opened their collections to be photographed, and a selection of resources for further study: books, films, educational initiatives, online resources – even ways to play with these sounds at home.

Known classics and significant rarities

Explore the designs and read the stories behind instruments from famous brands such as ARP, Casio, Clavia, Korg, Moog, Oberheim, Roland, Sequential, and Yamaha – as well as vintage gems from Crumar, Electronic Dream Plant, Elgam, E-mu, Ensoniq, Fairlight, Kawai, Gleeman, Lord Synthesisers, Steiner-Parker, Technics, Waldorf, and more.

The GEMS Series from Bjooks celebrate the inner and outer aesthetics of electronic musical instruments:

Detailed and beautiful color photographs, taken specifically for this series
Insightful discussion of the technical details – and the historical significance – of each instrument
Clear and inviting introductions to the concepts that guide these designs"

CLICK FOR MORE »

SAVE THE DATE! The ARP 2600 Synthposium: 50 Years of the 2600

via The Alan R. Pearlman Foundation

"SAVE-THE-DATE: SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18TH

THE ARP 2600 SYNTHPOSIUM

A hybrid in-person/online event and fundraiser celebrating 50 years since the release of the very first ARP 2600. The day will feature live performances, panel discussions, special guests, synthesizer clinics, a cocktail reception, and more!

The in-person segment of the SYNTHPOSIUM and fundraiser will take place at The Record Co., a community recording and rehearsal space for musicians in the Boston area. With its brand new facilities and impressive array of equipment, The Record Co. has partnered with us to house seven ARP synthesizers, shipped from around the world, that are available for public use.

The online event will be streamed live via several different sources.

Tickets and Information
We want to ensure everyone's safety, so tickets will go on sale two weeks before the September 18 event, so we can plan as accurately as possible.

Visit our Facebook Event page or the event page regularly for updates.

All proceeds will benefit the Alan R. Pearlman Foundation. The Foundation's mission is to celebrate the legacy of inventor, musician, entrepreneur and engineer Alan R. Pearlman by making his innovative inventions publicly accessible, and inspiring future generations to imagine and create.

OUR GUEST SPEAKERS INCLUDE:

David Baron
Phil Cirroco
Lisa Bella Donna
David Friend
Jennifer Hruska
Brian Kehew
David Mash

THE ARP 2600...
To call the ARP 2600 an influential synthesizer is a grand understatement. When first produced in 1971, the 2600 presented musicians with the power of a full-fledged modular synthesizer, but with "normalled" connections allowed anyone to play without knowing how to program. It was educational, powerful, and flexible... And it sounded phenomenal. The 2600 can produce amazing sonic textures, leads, basses, sound effects, and just about any other sound you can imagine.

Early adopters such as Edgar Winter, Pete Townshend, Joe Zawinul and Stevie Wonder helped popularize the 2600 in a musical context. Stevie even had a customized 2600 with the controls labeled in Braille. The 2600 is also famously known as the voice of Star Wars' R2-D2, being played by sound designer Ben Burtt.

And with the reintroduction of the 2600 by Korg, as well as Antonus and 2600 VSTs such as Time wARP, Cherry Audio's CA2600 and Arturia, a whole new generation of musicians can now experience the endless possibilities of this incredible synthesizer. LEARN MORE"

The Alan R. Pearlman Foundation Announces ARPs for All

via The Alan R. Pearlman Foundation where you can find additional details.

"The Alan R. Pearlman Foundation (ARPF) is thrilled to announce ARPs for All: a new program to bring the magic and inspiration of rare vintage ARP synthesizers to EVERYONE in the music-making public.

In partnership with The Record Co. (TRC), ARPs for All is launching an initial collection of 5 instruments (the ARP Avatar, Axxe, Odyssey, and a vintage ARP 2600 with ARP Sequencer) available for hands on use, learning, and experimentation at TRC’s community recording and rehearsal facility in Boston. Over the summer of 2021, these will be joined by an ARP Omni, Quadra, Solus as well as a rare ARP Explorer on loan from the estate of Alan R. Pearlman.

In the coming year ARPF and TRC will grow this living collection of instruments and foster deeper community engagement through experiential educational programming for the public as well as music synthesis-focused residencies for emerging artists.

Join us and make ARP’s incredible legacy of musical (and electrical!) ingenuity accessible to future generations of makers. In other words: ARPs for All!"

EML Electronic Music Lab

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

via this auction

"I.W. Turner Inc. Electronic Music Lab Modules. Includes Mixer, Electronic Switch, Triangle Wave Generator, Square Wave Generator, and White Noise Generator. All models except the Mixer require a 9V battery (not included). All items work, except for triangle wave generator (9V battery plug is missing). Someone cut the 9V battery plug from the triangle wave generator and I don't know where the black wire goes. The back cover is also missing from the Triangle Wave Generator. The sound seems weak on all the units but the mixer and the controls are scratchy, so I am selling it all AS IS. The circuit boards look hand lettered, but they may be printed I can't tell. From what I've seen online, these were made in the 70's."

Reminiscent of the ARP Educational modules. You can find a few more EML modules in prevoius posts here.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Alan R. Pearlman Foundation 2021 Calendar & Year in Review

via the Alan R. Pearlman Foundation

The Alan R. Pearlman Foundation was formed to honor the legacy Alan R. Pearlman, inventor of ARP Synthesizers - groundbreaking electronic synthesizers that changed the face of music forever. "to make his innovative inventions publicly accessible, and help inspire future generations to imagine and create through charitable projects."

Year in Review

Last January we were given an opportunity to introduce the Foundation to the music instrument industry at the hugely popular NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) show. You, the supporters of the Foundation helped us, the foundation board members to promote the Foundation, its mission and its charitable projects to electronic musicians, engineers, potential donors and the press. We had an extremely successful show and made hundreds of contacts as well as raise money and awareness for our projects.

Other 2020 Achievements:

Attained 501(c)(3) Status: The Foundation is now a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization! All donations are eligible to be tax-deductable! We received our status at the end of this past March! What a surprise!

ARPchives LIVE! We have been hosting a series of online educational opportunities and live stream 'studio visits' called ARPchives LIVE!

50th Anniversary of ARP Synthesizers Celebration: This included a series of recordings, live streams, commemorative artifacts and most exciting: an ARP 2500 ROUND-TABLE [posted here]. with opening remarks by Jean Michel Jarre!
Participation in virtual synthesizer festivals including Synthfest a la Maison (France)[in the playlist here] and SoundMit (Italy) [posted here], and collaborations with Willem Twee Studios and AES [posted here].

News and New Activities

Due to the worldwide pandemic, our major fundraising event was cancelled, and of course, like all of you, we did not attend the variety of trade shows that were originally scheduled for this year.

We have an exciting 2021 planned for you.

NEW PROGRAM! ARP Living Collection and Studio: We are partnering with a non-profit recording studio to create a recording and creating ARP-centric studio environment. We have the space, and the beginning of a collection, and plan on launching next year. We will be able to have visitors like you, use the ARP Synthesizers in a variety of ways. Details to be announced at the beginning of 2021

NEW LEARNING: We are working on an exciting, never-before seen series of instructional videos, that will be released on a pay-as-you-can subscription.

TWO NEW Webinars dates TBA: The 2600 and a Women in Synthesis summit.

How You Can Make a Difference

Though the Foundation is in its infancy, we are now a 501 (c)(3) not-for-profit. We are seeking funding to cover some of our costs to create online learning materials, purchase technology for our future online programs, marketing for the concert and scanning materials for the digital archives.

We need help from people like you! Music lovers, synth lovers, creators and believers in perpetuating educational and creative opportunities.

Please consider making a donation today. Visit our website's donate page or, for some fun perks, donate to our IndieGogo page where you can get the ARPCHIVES 2021 Calendar!

Electronic Dream Plant WASP synth, Kim Wilde, Nick Rhodes... in memory of Chris Huggett,

Electric Cafe

"This video demonstrates the sound of the Electronic Dream Plant WASP synthesizer, Kim Wilde used it for her hit single Kids In America, and Duran Duran keyboard player Nick Rhodes used it early in with the band.

Sadly Chris Huggett passed away on October 22nd 2020 but leaves behind a legacy of synth production that in a British way rivals that of Moog, Oberheim, ARP, and other synthesizer manufacturers. Today there are companies who recognise the popularity of the EDP WASP and have cloned them, Behringer and the Jasper are just two who have released their version of this classic vintage sounding synthesizer which rivals some Moog, Oberheim, ARP, Yamaha, and other famous synthesizer company products since the late 1970's.

This video contains images that do not belong to the uploader of Electric Cafe but are being used for education purposes. The music created is all original apart from Kim Wilde Kids In America:
Artist
Kim Wilde
Album
Kim Wilde
Licensed to YouTube by
[Merlin] Absolute Label Services; ASCAP, EMI Music Publishing, UNIAO BRASILEIRA DE EDITORAS DE MUSICA - UBEM, PEDL, SOLAR Music Rights Management, LatinAutorPerf, Kobalt Music Publishing, and 16 Music Rights Societies
All synths programmed were: Electronic Dream Plant WASP, and that's all!

Copyright Disclaimer under Section 107 of the copyright act 1976, allowance is made for fair use for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favour of fair use."

Also see: Legendary Synth Designer Chris Hugget of EDP, OSC, and Novation has Passed Away