"This module is a 12-stage phaser or all-pass filter with resonance control. When the filter’s output is mixed with the input, this creates notches in the frequency response. Classic phasing sounds are achieved by modulating the frequency control with an LFO. It can also be used as a 4-stage filter by removing the top PCB and jumpering pins 1 and 2 of the pin connectors together.
This module uses two circuit boards sandwhiched together. It's designed for 12V systems and can be easily modified for use with 15V systems."
1. Synthfest UK 23: MyVolts - Nifty USB Power Solutions
At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with Caroline from MyVolts, and they've added to their panoply of useful power solutions for musicians. MyVolts showcased their new product, the Alchemist power distribution hub, which harnesses the versatility of USB-C to deliver various voltages from 5V to 20V. This means you can power a range of equipment, from vintage synths to modern gear, with one device. They've also taken their USB power innovation to the next level with a step-up 12V power tip, allowing users to draw 18W from USB to power gear like the Electron Analog Four on the go. MyVolts aims to simplify power management for musicians, addressing issues like earthing and noise, and they're actively seeking input from the community to fine-tune their solutions.
In addition to the Alchemist power hub, MyVolts will be releasing their own power banks, USB-C power cables with wattage indicators, and a range of power tips compatible with various voltages. This expansion means users can power a wide range of devices efficiently and conveniently. These products are expected to be available around February or March. MyVolts encourages you to fill out their survey to help them better understand and solve the unique power challenges musicians face.
2. Synthfest UK 23: Rides In The Storm - SED CSM Synth Voice
At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with Uwe from Rides In The Storm to get a glimpse of their upcoming modular synth voice module, the SED CSM. This module is a powerhouse of sound design possibilities, offering a wide range of features packed into a single unit. With two oscillator sections, three waveform options, pulse width modulation, and a wave folder, there's plenty of sonic flexibility on tap.
The SED CSM also includes a robust mixer section, a ring modulator, wave folder, noise source, and an external input, expanding its sound-shaping capabilities. Uwe demonstrated how the module can be used for lush soundscapes and dynamic modulation with its various features. SED CSM offers envelope generators with loopable modes and versatile LFOs and filter options.
We returned to the Analogue Solutions booth to chat again with Tom who showed us the second synth he’s released this year, Ample. Ample is a 3 VCO synth which combines some of the greatest bits of other Analogue Solutions synths, including a patch pin matrix similar to the Vostok, a sequencer taken from the generator, an interval generator similar to that on the Fusebox, and a 24dB filter akin to that of the Pro One. It even has the same delay circuit from the new Maximus.
There are 3 types of pin for the pin matrix with resistances of 0 ohms on the black pin 10k ohms on the red one and blue giving a value of 100k, which allows for more flexibility in attenuating the signals you patch. Tom told us that Ample is particularly suited to percussion, with its snappy filter, and various clock sources available, and though Ample is in a desktop format, Tom has given us plenty of space between the controls so no accidental knob bumping can occur.
Available October 23
Ample Price: around £2000 plus vat
4. Synthfest UK 23: Expert Sleepers - Analogue Modules
At Synthfest UK 2023, we had the chance to chat with Os from Expert Sleepers, known for their versatile digital modules. However, Os has been exploring the analog side of modular synthesis and has introduced a range of eight analog modules.
Among the analog modules, Os showcased a squelchy filter, oscillators with unconventional sine wave cores, and an intriguing octave fuzz effect. He emphasized that these analog modules offer a different approach to sound generation and signal processing compared to their digital counterparts. Os also pointed out that once an analog module is designed and built, it's a finished product, offering a sense of completeness that's distinct from the continuous updates often associated with digital modules.
Expert Sleepers Analogue modules Prices: from £159
5. Synthfest UK 23: Yamaha - DM3 - Super Compact Digital Mixer
At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with Chris from Yamaha to take a look at their latest offering, the DM3 digital mixer. This compact 16-input mixer packs some impressive features into a small footprint, making it suitable for a variety of applications. With a focus on pro audio and audio versatility, the DM3 boasts brand-new microphone preamps inspired by Yamaha's high-end CL and QL series, ensuring top-notch audio quality. Operating at 96 kHz, the DM3 offers pristine audio resolution.
We have to admit, we're all Gassing for this one...
The DM3 boasts a touchscreen interface, complemented by touch-and-turn knobs for tactile control. This innovative combination allows users to efficiently navigate and control the mixer's parameters. The DM3 can also serve as an audio interface, providing 18 in and 18 out over USB, making it an excellent choice for recording and streaming applications. With a compact and portable design, this mixer is versatile enough for live gigs, corporate events, podcasting, and studio work.
DM3 Standard Model Price: Around £1,500
DM3 Dante-Enabled Price: Around £2,000
6. Synthfest UK 23: Tone Science - Triple Cross - Chance Delay
At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with Ian Boddy from DIN Records, known for his prolific work in the electronic music scene. While DIN Records is celebrating its 25th anniversary next year, Ian has expanded his creative endeavors with the release of two modules under the sub-label Tone Science in collaboration with AJH Synth. The Triple Cross module offers versatile signal manipulation capabilities, enabling crossfading, morphing, panning, with non-synchronous LFOs and DC-coupled outputs. The Chance Delay module introduces a unique concept of probability-driven gate delay. Musicians can control the likelihood of triggers passing through, allowing for rhythmically intricate and ever-changing sequences. These modules are designed to enhance the performative aspect of modular synthesis, providing musicians with dynamic tools for evolving soundscapes and rhythmic complexity.
Triple Cross Price: £260
Chance Delay Price: £175
7. Synthfest UK 23: 1010 Music - Bluebox Eurorack Edition
At Synthfest UK 2023, we had the opportunity to chat with Steve from 1010 Music about their latest creation, the Bluebox Eurorack Edition. This module was born out of customer demand, as users of the original Blue Box desktop unit clamored for a Eurorack-compatible version. The Bluebox Eurorack Edition packs all the power and versatility of the desktop version but with a few key differences. It offers mono inputs and outputs that can be combined into stereo, six CV inputs for mapping to various parameters, and two dedicated USB-C ports—one for MIDI and the other for USB audio. This means you can connect your Blue Box to a Mac, PC, or iPad, send and receive audio tracks, and still record all 12 tracks, plus a master track and two effects sends, separately on a micro SD card. An upcoming firmware update will also bring stereo audio in both directions to the Blue Box Desktop Edition, offering even more flexibility in routing and recording. With its compact 30 HP size and thoughtful design, the Bluebox Eurorack Edition also offers a clock output bridging the gap between hardware and software seamlessly.
At Synthfest UK 2023, we had a conversation with Tim from Nonlinear Labs, the creators of the highly expressive C15 synthesizer. Tim shared some exciting updates that have recently been implemented with the inclusion of LFOs via looping envelopes providing musicians with more sonic versatility. The C15's unique concept, based on a two-operator FM synthesis engine, remains intact, but these new LFO capabilities expand its sonic palette. Tim also showcased the expanded key tracking options, which can stretch pitches to create unique tonal textures. Furthermore, he highlighted the new twin-engine feature, which allows for cascading delays and creating captivating stereo soundscapes. Tim also hinted at future developments that owners of this expressive synthesizer can look forward to.
C15 Black Price: 4,300 Euros (incl. VAT)
C15 Cherry Wood Price: 4,750 Euros (incl. VAT)
9. Synthfest UK 23: Kenton - LNDX Midi Line Driver
At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with John from Kenton Electronics to check out their latest offering, the LNDX Line Driver, a handy solution for extending MIDI signals over long distances. Designed to address the challenges of maintaining stable MIDI connections in large venues and studios, the Line Driver utilizes Cat5 cables to transmit MIDI signals up to an impressive 500 meters. It's an ideal tool for live gigs in massive stadiums or situations where the control center is far from the performance area. The Line Driver features LEDs to monitor both the incoming and outgoing MIDI signals, providing essential feedback for troubleshooting and ensuring signal integrity. This straightforward and robust solution adds reliability to any MIDI setup, whether it's in the music industry, broadcasting, or even unconventional applications like flight simulators. With its opto-isolation and straightforward connectivity, the Line Driver is set to become an essential tool for professionals seeking rock-solid MIDI signal transmission over long distances.
LNDR pair Price: £127.92
10. Synthfest UK 23: Sweet Discrete - Synth Panel Restoration
At Synthfest UK 2023, we had a chat with Craig from Sweet Discrete, a company specializing in unique synth restoration and custom creations. Craig showcased their latest endeavor, which goes beyond their well-known synth overlays. Sweet Discrete has taken on the ambitious task of restoring classic synths like the Jupiter 8 to their former glory. These aren't just simple restorations; they're meticulous, artisanal processes, involving lead loading to remove rust and imperfections, followed by precise silkscreening. What's more, Sweet Discrete manufactures exact replica shells for various synth models, offering three versions for the Jupiter 8 alone. They've even delved into MIDI mods for the Jupiter 8, bringing modern convenience to these vintage gems.
Beyond their cosmetic work, Sweet Discrete is exploring the possibility of delving into electronics and design for synthesizers. With a keen focus on quality and precision, they're making a name for themselves in the world of synth restoration and custom solutions. To learn more about their offerings and explore the range of products, visit their website
"This is four LFOs in one module to effeciently add more up and down to patches. Each LFO has a range of 0.04 to 55hz and triangle/square output waveforms.
This module is designed for 12V systems but can be used with 15V systems by adjusting 8 resistor values."
"Let's try, in 5 minutes, to do a vintage-sounding synth string sound on the Sequential OB-6.
The basic blocks are sawtooth or pulse waves, adding as much movement as possible using LFO, PWM and detuning, bandpass filter (a personal choice, you can of course experiment with low pass or high pass) and some chorus and phaser (by the way, I've said resonance about the phaser settings, I meant depth)."
"Behringer Solina Ensemble playing sounds from Jean Michel Jarre's Equinoxe.
Gear:
* Solina Ensemble
* Korg Wavestate - the accompanying parts for Equinoxe 4 played using @MaikSchott's wonderful soundset called 'Synthesizer Legends'
* Nord Lead 2X used as MIDI controller for Solina
* Eventide Blackhole"
"Check out my private collection of Sweet Sounds dedicated to Sequential Trigon-6: https://bit.ly/trigon-6sweet 🎵
I used the great Soundtower Sequential Trigon-6 editor when recording the material - https://bit.ly/trigon-6editor 🎵"
"Now finally, all devices receiving the master MIDI Clock.
- I had to add another MIDI to USB interface from the TR6S MIDI Out to the Loopy Pro USB network (USB interface).
"Join us for a tour of the Instruo headquarters up in Glasgow, Scotland, UK. You learn how to caffeinate properly while you're at it.
It's an amazing place with music studios, subSine academy and band rooms all wrapped around the design, prototyping and manufacturing of Instruo products. This video was recorded as part of a larger multi day visit for some other 'activities' (top secret for now) so while the large part of the tour is shot at once on a quiet Sunday you'll see a few other clips from the days prior."
"One of the first Instruo modules I am aware of is Troika. It's a three oscillator VCO that started as a hand made heavy brass panel module and was officially retired a month ago. There aren't much videos around except for the official 'how it's made' and a handful of videos from a time where Eurorack was still a niche (six years ago). The official lifespan is 2016-2023. Honestly, I never had much interest in the Troika until I gave it a try last Jamuary in VCV Rack. It sounds absolutely amazing and it immediately went to my wishlist. When Instruo announced the module's retirement I got one.
My module has serial 22 so I can't help wondering how old 'brand new' really is.
When I started to make this video, my mindset was 'Moog/Subtractive/Eastcoast' because of the 3-Osc design. I recreated the mimimoog layout with a few special guests like Maths and Clouds, and AJH Transistor Ladder as the iconic Moog filter.
It's been three days of enjoying cool music and this morning I realized how important a 3-Osc VCO is for approximating 99.9% of the best 80's sounds ever. It sounds more like an ARP 2600 because of all the patchpoints (and Maths as the LFO). It got even better when I swapped the ladder filter for Instruo's 1047 multimode filter which was part of the older ARP 2500. So my personal conclusion is that Troika is a super interesting VCO for anyone with a love for the 70's-80's and want to go a few steps further than the Moog and the ARP can offer.
I was able to buy a used one about a year ago, but decided not to do it, because I did not see any added value to the stuff I alread have. I can now say, if you find a reasonably priced used one, it's worth it."
"Got the Syncussion recreation by Michigan Synth Werks recently and could finally go fully in with modifications, something I would have never dared to do with my old Pearl SY-1. On this page here you find a documentation of DIY modifications for this iconic drum synthesiser (including filter resonance, vco hard sync, and oscillator mode switching at audio rates): https://maffez.com/?page_id=3864."
"In this video, I'm replacing the screen and the batteries in a Yamaha SY99 workstation from 1991. Table of contents:
00:00 hello
00:40 hardware overview
02:20 taking it apart...
03:50 floppy drive emulator
04:28 check the screen first...
04:56 taking it apart, continued
07:44 remove the old screen
08:47 insert the new screen
09:09 reassemble
11:20 replace the batteries
12:15 final reassembly
13:00 important considerations
13:21 sound demo
14:20 bye-bye
"At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with Tom from Analogue Solutions who gave us our first hands-on look at the Maximus Analog Synthesizer. While it might not be as colossal as its predecessor, the Colossus, the Maximus still packs a punch. This beast features 8 individual voices, each with its own sequencer, giving musicians the flexibility to craft a wide range of sounds, from lush pads to percussion elements. Maximus employs a vintage-inspired approach to tuning, with no central control, harking back to the 1970s ethos of hands-on control. While it is capable of huge polyphonic patches, Tom's vision for the Maximus is to offer musicians the ability to create diverse sequences and utilize the voices independently, allowing for rich sonic exploration. With its voltage-controlled filter and multi-mode options, it's clear that the Maximus draws inspiration from classic analog synths like the Oberheim SEM. Additionally, it boasts a five-octave keyboard with aftertouch and a unique touchplate with triggering and flexible CV capabilities. Analogue Solutions has embraced a normalization approach, making patching a breeze, while also providing the option to switch out circuits for advanced sound design. The Maximus also offers delay and spring reverb effects, further expanding its sonic palette.
With the first production run already sold out, tom is busy crafting the next batch and the Maximus should become available again in November 2023.
"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.
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"Fully tested, perfect working condition. Built by the consignor. 2nd run PCB. Installed with Power One Linear PSU, Gate Booster Mod for +5V Gate Input, and synthCube slider caps. Housed in a limited-run Black Tolex wooden case by Monorocket offered in 2014."
Functionally excellent condition. I have all details from the restoration work performed by John Magnus Nelson in Atlanta, but essentially, replaced all electrolytics and anything else that failed from the passage of time or things that normally fail. John is a wizard of a synth repair guy, and I highly recommend him. Everything works fully and the synth sounds incredible! And weird!
Cosmetically it is in very good condition. There are a couple of mounting posts for the lid that were broken and some were replaced. So, when you look at it, you will notice that there are 2 screws missing. Everything is very stable and safe, but I recommend storing it on the back spine, not laying flat to prevent putting too much strain on the remaining in tact screws/posts. One runner foot is missing from the bottom."
"The Korg Polyphonic Ensemble P (PE-1000) is a preset-based analog orchestral instrument synthesizer. It was released in 1976 and manufactured in Japan. The Polyphonic Ensemble P was one of Korg's first polyphonic instruments. It has seven preset sounds, including: String, Pipe Organ, Brass, Piano, Electric. Each key has its own oscillator, which allows detuning between notes to thicken the sound. The Polyphonic Ensemble P has 61-voice polyphony. The Polyphonic Ensemble P also has:
A high pass filter
Peak L and peak H, which are basically a resonance for the low pass and high pass filter
A soft knob, which softens the sound
An expand knob
The Polyphonic Ensemble P was created before the development of VCOs. It has a limited sound palette, but seems to have a lot of sound sculpting possibilities."
"Up for bid is the Vintage E-mu EIII Emulator 3! 'Prototype' model with serial number #003. Acquired from a friend of former Emu product development team member. Powers up! I uploaded a video reel on my Instagram page 'tristarmusicgear' that shows the power up sequence. The unit was diagnosed by Riley Smith of synth smith on 6/20/23. Copy of the repair is included in the photo gallery. Cosmetically, it is in good shape with minor marks/scratches. Few screws are missing on the back and bottom panels. Power cord is included"
"Patch Notes
Drumbrute is sending clock and doing drums.
Kick & tom outs are patched into Rings for drums
Tides V2 is playing chords while 2nd Tides V2 is modulating Veils
Stages for envelopes and lfo for modulating 1st Tides V2
Marbles sending pitch and gate around"
"Showing how you can use one of the outputs on the Erica Synths Syntrx 2 to send out low frequency voltages to the envelope follower. The manual doesn't talk about the outputs being DC coupled or mentioning input 1 being DC coupled but low frequency waves with sharp edges will trigger the synth through input 1. So the patch is OSC 3 Saw to Output 2, Output 2 to Input 1, Set input 1 switch to gate, Send S/H to Oscillator 3, Set Random switch to Gate. This works with the Trapezoid as well or both at the same time. Mixing in audio from the pan knob of output 1 will make the gate detector go crazy at the right settings. Have fun!"
"Wir sprechen über #Synthesizer, #Sequencer und Musik.
Wer verwenden Neuigkeiten als Idee, spinnen und „philosophieren“ aber meist die Themen weiter und machen Hands-On und generelle Gespräche über alles zum Thema.
Unterstütze uns: https://sequencertalk.synthesizers.de
bzw. dort kaufen bei Bedarf: https://shop.synthesizers.de
Dean & Moogulator
