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Playlist:
1.SynthfestUK 24: Knobula - Synth Modules and Toy Pianos
At SynthfestUK 2024, we met up again with Jason, who gaves us the updates in the world of Knobula. On display was the new 'dark mode' Poly Cinematic module, for more monochrome rigs ;-]2. SynthFestUK 24: PWM - More Mantis News
At the show we made a beeline for the PWM stand, where Paul gave us the latest Mantis news.3. SynthfestUK 24: Roland Unveils the Juno-D Series with Zen-Core Sound
And yes, it's out there in the world now!
We caught up with Andrew and Ludwig who showed us around the new updated Juno-D series: Juno-D6, D7, and D8. They have the same keyboard action as the Fantom-O series and a new colour screen, making it easier for performers to navigate on stage. And they can be powered by a USB-C mobile battery, perfect for buskers ;-) Running Roland's Zen-Core sound engine, they also incorporates features like a 64-step sequencer and a phrase pad for live sample triggering.4. SynthfestUK 24: Roland P-6 Aira Compact Creative Sampler
Prices range approximately from £949 to £1199.
Roland have been busy recently - as well as the new Juno-D series which we also saw at SF24, they were showing the new addition to the Aira Compact range, the P-6 Creative Sampler. It has six sample pads and eight banks, offering 48 sample locations. It supports both high-res (6 seconds) and low-resolution sampling, with editing capabilities including filter envelopes, effects application, and a 64-step sequencer for arranging compositions. Andy also mentioned its granular synth mode for nuanced sonic manipulation, supporting stereo and mono samples, accessible via a built-in mic or USB-C.5. SynthfestUK 24: Bjooks New MiniMoog Book
At SynthfestUK 2024, we spoke with Kim at the Bjooks stand (cool name ;-) to learn about their latest release, the Minimoog book. The book, funded on Kickstarter, is Bjooks eighth publication and includes exclusive photography, revealing the history and development of the Minimoog.6. SynthfestUK 24: AJH Synth (sounds only)
Featuring interviews with engineer legends like Jim Scott and Bill Hemsath, as well as musicians such as Keith Emerson and Chick Corea, the book offers a comprehensive view of the synthesizer's evolution. This is the latest in a series that began with Push, Turn, Move in 2017, and follows other titles like Patch and Tweak with Moog and Synth Gems.
AJH Synth were showing at SynthfestUK 2024, and whilst there was nothing really new as such, we took the opportunity to get some sounds with Allan Hall - enjoy!7. SynthfestUK 24: Expert Sleepers New Disting NT
Hey, it's a new Disting!8. SynthfestUK 24: TC5000 - Another Monster From Analogue Solutions
Os unveiled the new Disting NT - celebrating a decade since the debut of the original Disting, the NT model marks a significant evolution in both form and function, with a larger screen, expanded I/O capabilities including USB, MIDI, and more.
The NT can run multiple algorithms simultaneously, effectively functioning as a powerful microcomputer tailored for modular tasks, supporting a wide variety of tasks from sound generation and FX processing to CV operations.
Tom's stand is hard to miss, always something massive and/or impressive to catch your attention ;-]9. SynthfestUK 24: Exploring the Nord Grand 2 with Headline Audio
This year it's the turn of the TC5000, a synthesizer drawing inspiration from the ARP2500 with a patch matrix system along the lines of those he has developed since the Vostok.
The TC5000 has a unique mix of circuits - compiled from years of development in products like the Fusebox and Colossus - and its user interface, for ease of patching across upper and lower matrices.
With a host of modules, including oscillators, filters, sequencers, and dual spring reverbs, Tom plans to provide a comprehensive package, with potential expansions through additional "wings" or systems.
Price is expected to be in the £22K range, available towards the end of the year
Headline Audio were showing the new Nord Grand 2 - released this year, it caters to live, studio, and home use, with flexible setup options like the wooden stand and tailored Nord monitors developed in collaboration with Audio Pro. These monitors are specifically voiced to enhance the Nord range.10. SynthFestUK 24: Audio.computer - Beat Friend is almost ready!
The Nord Grand 2 now has 2 gigabytes of memory for piano sounds and one gigabyte for other samples, enabling users to run four independent sound layers.
The Grand 2 also merges Nord's first-ever collaboration with Kawai, incorporating the new triple sensor action, and integrates Spitfire string samples for superior orchestral sounds.
Ben had the latest version of the Beat Friend on show - he reckons it's 90% done... just gotta make it ready for prime time ;-]11. SynthfestUK 24: Embodme Erae II is Coming Soon
He gave us a quick demo of what it's all about.
More info: https://blog.audio.computer/
At this year's SynthfestUK, we caught up with Alex from Embodme to discuss their latest product, the Erae II. Previously showcased at NAMM, the Erae II is nearing its final production stages and will be shipping within a month.12. SynthfestUK 24: Exploring the Emulator Legacy with ProSynth Network
Erae II has 24 CV gate outputs as well as expressive MPE capabilities. You can customize their grid layout, facilitating a drumstick-style play, and benefit from the unique fabric interface,
The Erae II allows skin interchangeability, providing versatility for drummers and others. With a built-in looper designed for live performances, it offers multi-touch capability and comes with the Erae Lab software for custom interface programming.
Pre-sale pricing is currently set at £699, transitioning to regular pricing of £950 post-launch.
At the SynthfestUK 2024, we had the chance to catch up with Robbie Puricellu and Peter James Stephens from the ProSynth Network. They showcased an exhibit for the 40th anniversary of the Emulator 2, featuring every version from its lineage, including the rare Emulator X and the innovative Vampire rack system. This journey through the Emulator’s progression highlighted the transition from traditional hardware to software-based solutions. The Mirage sampler also brought a bit of nostalgia, illustrating how quickly sampling technology evolved in the 1980s.13. SynthfestUK 24: Skold Modular Unveils the Skold One Polyphonic Eurorack System
We met with Nathan from Skald Modular to take a closer look at their Skald One Polyphonic Eurorack System.14. SynthfestUK 24: Ian Helliwell''s Beautiful Machines
Its a four-voice modular synthesizer, which integrates MIDI control in a tidy 84 HP setup. Nathan explained that each voice is discrete, featuring an oscillator, a 24 dB low-pass OTA-based filter, a transistor core VCA, and a three-stage envelope.
The Skald One offers a patch-free setup via behind-the-scenes wireless connections, providing flexibility and ease for synthesis enthusiasts. The modular components are priced individually, with a discount available when purchased as a complete set.
Ian presented some of his creations, including the Hellisizer 1000 and the Hellitronic Switchertran, both joystick-operated devices featuring unique enclosures painstakingly crafted by Ian himself.15. SynthfestUK 24: StompSynth - Guitar-Controlled Modular Synth
Each piece, often made from repurposed 70s games controllers, offers flexibility and originality, as seen in his monthly Sync Pulse events in Brighton. These screenings aim to captivate audiences with thematic experiences combining vibrant visuals and soundscapes—themes like light colour abstraction and cosmic science.
At SynthfestUK 2024, we caught up with Kostas from Even Harmonics, who introduced us to a unique guitar-controlled modular analog synthesizer.16. SynthfestUK 24: Build Your Own Modular Kit with Clacktronics
This setup utilizes a Fishman TriplePlay guitar-to-MIDI system, allowing a guitar to wirelessly transmit MIDI data to a modular synth setup.
The core of the system is a custom-built MIDI-to-CV box with unique guitar-specific features, which then generates control voltage (CV) and gate signals to manipulate a modular synth comprised of pedals.
The system includes two oscillators, offering duophonic capabilities, and separates audio outputs for the bass and treble string..
https://evenharmonic.com/
We caught up with Ben from Clacktronics to delve into their innovative "Build Your Own Modular" kit. The package includes a book and a printed circuit board (PCB) kit offering an introduction to modular synthesis.17. SynthfestUK 24: CB Electronics Recallable Eurorack Patch System
Ben explained that the kit is tailored for beginners and those interested in subtractive synthesis, featuring essential modules like oscillators, filters, and voltage-control amplifiers, along with a microcontroller for programming experiments.
The basic kit provides instructions and PCBs, while an optional component kit is available for a more hassle-free assembly.
The modular components are straightforward to construct and offer a great starting point for those interested in soldering and electronics.
The "Build Your Own Modular" kit is now available
More info: https://www.clacktronics.co.uk
At SynthfestUK 2024, we caught up with Colin Broad of CB Electronics, who introduced us to a new recallable Eurorack patch system.18. SynthfestUK 24: RYK Modular - New ALGO and Prototype Quad Envelope Module
Colin explained that this system evolved from a pro studio setup, prompted by the demand from a client for something suited to the Euro modules market.
The system is DC coupled, allowing various signals like control voltages, triggers, and audio to pass through. It includes a processor with manual trigger inputs and USB, serial, and network MIDI connections, offering flexibility in routing through a matrix view.
Additionally, Colin showed the prototype of a new Mic Amp module and described how the input sources are processed through multiple gain stages and outputs, with opportunities for buffering akin to an insert effect.
The control module can connect to up to fifteen modules.
More info:
http://colinbroad.com/
At SynthfestUK 2024, we caught up with Jake from RYK Modular who was showing the ALGO module, a four-operator FM or quad complex oscillator that launched this summer.19. SynthfestUK 24: Cong Burn - Strokes and Stacks with Jon
It features adjustable frequency control, allowing users to modulate the waveform intricately.
Jake was also showing a prototype quad envelope module that provides four channels of ADSR envelopes, each capable of modulating the ALGO module's oscillators.
This module allows modulation inputs to adjust envelope characteristics and offers various envelope slopes such as exponential, linear, cosine, and more.
The quad envelope module is expected to release by the end of the year.
At SynthfestUK 2024, we caught up with Jon at the Cong Burn stand, where he introduced us to Strokes, an 8-track groovebox and MIDI sequencer. Strokes offers a versatile sequencing experience, allowing users to control multiple plats simultaneously and smoothly interpolate between patterns using its innovative performance page. A notable update this year is its full integration with the Monoam grid, enhancing user control over rhythm and modulation. Strokes is available as a VST3, audio unit, and AUV3, compatible with Mac, Windows, and iOS.
Jon also showcased Stacks, a four-track granular looper available on iPad. This looper features a built-in sequencer and synth engine, enabling intricate modulations and sequencing of chords. Its grain and real modes offer versatile looping and time-stretching capabilities, reminiscent of vintage time-stretch effects. Stacks can be purchased as a VST3 and audio unit on Mac and Windows or via the App Store for iOS devices.
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