Some sad news sent my way via John L Rice who helped man the Moon Modular booth at NAMM every year. Gert Jalass, the man behind Moon Modular has passed away. I met Gert serveral times at NAMM and he was always a pleasure to talk to. He always welcomed me with a smile. He was genuinely passionate about synthesisers and the synth community. I haven't been able to make events lately and was looking forward to seeing him again. I'm so saddened that I won't be able to. I am sincerely going to miss him.
"In this GREAT CONJUNCTION walkthrough, I stumble through the CUSTOM INSTRUMENT pages. Detailed changes to the YM2413 sound engine can be made in here. The MODULATOR & CARRIER have many parameters available to tailer the 2-op engine to your liking.
Feel free to ask for clarification in the comments. A spider dropped on my head and I lost my focus for a bit."
"Two of the oscillators in this Mono/Poly wouldn’t tune during calibration and ended up being a major pain in the tuchus. Meanwhile, this Publsion Infernal Machine had no output on channel A plus the garbled screen of ultimate despair. Figured both those out, plus recapped the tants, changed a couple broken XLR connectors and re-recapped the PSU as someone left it rather untidy. It sounds wild and is really fun to use.
Should you have a piece of vintage pro audio gear that needs some love, feel free to drop us a line:
"Focusrite Group Product Specialist Chris 'Calc' Calcutt gives us a walkthrough and some patch examples from the new Oberheim TEO-5, a five-voice analogue polysynth from one of the most revered brands in synth history.
The Scorpion Tail 5U synthesizer module for dotcom systems is an audio signal processor designed to amplify, distort and create new waveshapes by processing audio through a 19EZ8 triple triode and A1B neon lamp.
The signal flow of the module is 3 gain stages in series fed into the neon lamp. The audio result sounds like 3 waveshapers in series with the neon lamp as a fourth waveshaper or as a resonator/oscillator that tracks to incoming audio. When the neon knob is at maximum setting clockwise it oscillates. When neon knob is turned counter clockwise more distortion and waveshaping and lower frequency audio manipulation happens. When gain stage knobs are full clockwise this creates a very crisp, clean and low noise loud amplifier. When gain stage knobs are turned opposite of eachother and counter clockwise this creates oscillations and wavemangling distortion.
CV is handled by an SR3 vactrol for slewy slappy liquidy modulation behavior of the waveshapers instability.
It is recommended to start with all knobs full clockwise/about 5 o’clock position and then work the knobs backwards slowly while observing the sounds.
The sweet spot for the offset knob is about 2-3 o’clock when no CV is applied. Then full counter clockwise when CV is applied. When no CV is applied the offset knob manually sweeps the instability of the 3 waveshaper gain stages. When CV is applied the offset adjusts the response of the incoming CV. Work that offset knob when applying CV. The most interesting and bizarre mangled sounds come when the first gain stage is barely letting audio through. The loudest and less scrambled sounds are found when all gain stage knobs are full clockwise and offset is about 2-3 o’clock.
There are so many hidden sounds in this module you will have to record them before they disappear and warp into a new sound. The intended use of this module is to process audio waveforms from an oscillator. There is a lot of gain so you will most likely want to place this in the middle of the chain with a voltage controlled attenuator at the end of the chain to control final volume and dynamics.
Very interesting results are found when also processing synthetic percussion and rhythmic beats and sequences.
"Synthgirl is a powerful wavetable synthesizer that empowers you to craft a vast sonic palette. With 2 versatile oscillators, you can explore a world of evolving sounds and textures with just your fingertips."
"Drumboy packs a powerful punch in a compact design. Featuring an ARM processor and intuitive controls, you can create dynamic beats and percussion patterns with ease."
"Hexadic Dreams (for Rachel Yoder) is inspired by the number six as well as Ben Chasny's Hexadic System, an algorithmic musical composition system based upon drawing randomly from a standard deck of playing cards. Rather than drawing from a deck of cards, in Hexadic Dreams the modular synthesizer algorithmically makes decisions between six choices in a multitude of ways. Six different tones of the bass clarinet have been pre-recorded by Rachel and these tones are chosen randomly as well as processed randomly using granular synthesis (with Instruo Arbhar). Hexadic Dreams is written in a hexatonic scale (or six-note scale). A quartet of brass like tones plays hexatonic chords using two Buchla 258T oscillators. The clarinet is also mimicked with electronic oscillators, using pitch tracking and amplitude tracking techniques with the Disting EX Tracker algorithm. In addition, using a sustain pedal the clarinetist can (at will) play and write or insert new 1V/octave control voltages into a looping circular buffer using the U-he CVilization MuCorder algorithm."
"Impressions and amtosphere of Superbooth 24 of the first day of the convention.
Mostly synth and music nerds enjoying the venue chilling, chatting and tweaking,
Pictures only, no original sound"
"AMSynths takes the B1004 to new soundscapes, with five individual waveforms AND a waveform mixer in just 8HP. A simple DIY installation and you have the most powerful VCO that ARP invented!"
Curious if this is the first add on to a Behringer product and the first manufacturer to to so. If you know of any others feel free to comment.
"We up with Alex from Embodme to discuss their latest product, the* ERAE 2* MIDI controller and looper. The *ERAE 2 *has a unique user interface customization feature through their ERAE Lab software, allowing users to design their own interface with drag-and-drop capabilities. The standout feature of the ERAE 2 is its impressive analog outputs, offering up to 24 CV gate outputs, a feature that sets it apart from other controllers on the market.
. With a focus on customization and versatility, this controller allows for a dynamic performance experience with its depth of velocity and preset program options. The ERAE 2 is now available for pre-sale, with shipping expected in September or October."
The FIRST LOVE synthesizer has an engaging interactive interface on a 7" touchscreen with real-time graphics as well as hardware controls that shape the output of its sound generating module. It gives unprecedented real-time control over the intricate variables of an FM synthesizer in a fast-flowing user friendly manner.
"Step up to the legendary warmth and brilliance of classic Oberheim, reborn in the compact, powerful TEO-5. Dive into authentic analog tones, push boundaries with modern modulations and effects, and create like Thomas Elroy Oberheim always dreamed. TEO-5 is more than a synth, it's your sonic legacy, waiting to be written.
"Today, I unbox and demo the incredible Oberheim TEO-5 synthesizer. In the video I also discuss TEO-5 with the man himself Tom Oberheim who graciously gave me an intimate introduction to his latest and greatest synthesizer. 🚀"
"Today, Oberheim Electronics has just announced the release of their new synthesizer: TEO-5 -- a five-voice analog synthesizer. In this video, Julian "J3PO" Pollack reviews the synth and performs numerous sound examples.
"Following up from my work on the beta development and sound design on the Oberheim OB-X8, I was pleasantly surprised to find that the next Oberheim synth would be the TEO-5. Unpacking the beta unit revealed a beautiful and cleverly designed 5 voice analog synth that simply sounds amazing.
The size of the TEO-5 is absolutely perfect for world wide gigging and the sound is a sort of best of Oberheim with a modern twist. That modern twist doesn't exclusively come from the excellent FX processor on board, but also from the interesting modulation options and ranges. While you can push the synth into harmonic and saturated zones, it still, like all Oberheims remains one large sweet spot.
Don't be fooled by the smaller size and voice count, there is nothing small about the sound and capability of the TEO-5. Not to be missed.
Please note this recording is of a beta development unit running an early firmware. The sounds featured here are the patches I made for the shipping factory bank that comes with the synth straight from Oberheim.
Recorded at Infinite Power Studios, Los Angeles. All patches by Matia Simovich/INHALT. Video edited by Grover Greenberg."
"At Superbooth 2024 we met up with David Gibbons from Oberheim who introduced us to the new TEO-5 synthesizer. Named after Tom Oberheim with an exclusive reveal of Tom's middle name, the TEO-5 has a SEM filter, two oscillators and a sub giving that classic Oberheim sound, but with lots of features to bring its capabilities right up to date.
Chris Calcutt then stepped up, and gave us a demo of the sound of this synth. TEO-5 gives us 19 mod slots with tons of destinations, both a mono and a poly LFO, two envelopes and a capable twin FX section. Uniquely there is a cross-mod section with thru-zero capabilities, which allows FM modulation that stays in tune up and down the keyboard.
With a similar form factor to the Take 5, the TEO-5 has a 3 and a half octave Fatar keyboard with aftertouch, and is designed to give the Oberheim sound in a more portable and affordable package
"A Quick Look any the new Oberheim TEO-5 - named after Tom Edison Oberheim - there was a leak a few weeks back but it's here in the flesh.. and nice it is too.
Its got the same form factor as there Sequential Take 5. The big addition is obviously the Oberheim filter, and a through zero FM - so it looks like it has the new SSI chip.
Anyway.. just a Quick Look.. enjoy:)"
And the press release with pics:
Introducing the New Oberheim TEO-5 Polyphonic Synthesizer
TEO-5: The Legendary Oberheim Sound Reborn in a Compact Powerhouse
San Francisco, CA – [May 16, 2024] – Oberheim, the venerable brand synonymous with the golden age of synthesizers, proudly announces the TEO-5 polysynth. This powerful instrument features the visionary craftsmanship of Thomas Elroy Oberheim (TEO), offering a perfect blend of classic analog warmth and modern versatility for today's musicians.
“I’m so proud to be able to make a synth like this... compact and affordable, the Oberheim sound for 2024,” says Tom Oberheim, the company’s founder. TEO-5 is designed to make the classic Oberheim tone palette widely accessible, encapsulating decades of analog engineering experience in a forward-thinking and innovative musical instrument.
The TEO-5 boasts a five-voice architecture with genuine analog VCOs and VCFs, capturing the distinctive warmth and depth that defined countless hit records. But TEO-5 isn't just a tribute to the past. Additions like through-zero FM, which adds a contemporary twist to its oscillator X-Mod feature, allow for the exploration of entirely new sonic textures. And the legendary Oberheim SEM filter returns, offering the versatility of morphing between low- pass, notch, and high-pass configurations, along with a switchable band-pass mode for extensive tonal shaping. Beyond its core synthesis architecture, TEO-5 features a comprehensive modulation matrix, opening a world of possibilities for sculpting and transforming sounds. Digital effects processors provide classic chorus, delay, reverb, and more, alongside faithful recreations of the revered Oberheim Ring Mod and Phasor effects. A 64-step polyphonic sequencer and multimode arpeggiator further fuel creative exploration, while a premium Fatar keybed ensures a responsive and inspiring playing experience.
“There was a huge surge of interest when Oberheim returned in 2022 with the historically inspired OB-X8,” said David Gibbons, CEO of Oberheim. “But Tom and the design team were keen to show that the magic of Oberheim can be within reach for everyone, and can bring a distinctive modern flavor. TEO-5 is an exciting addition to the Oberheim legacy.” Whether you're a seasoned professional seeking a powerful new sonic tool or a budding artist embarking on your analog adventure, TEO-5 is your gateway to unparalleled musical exploration.
"Unlike its predecessor, the C901-series VCO's are temperature compensated for stable tuning over a wide range of tracking…
We also developed a Ribbon Controller - our 900-RC
Last but not least, we improved our C952 Keyboard Controller
By new software that includes some new functions such as:
- the Arpeggiator can now also run in random mode
- the Legato mode allows ratcheting sequences."
Priced at $999 for the VOICE, $299 for the BREAKOUT, and $1249 for the BUNDLE.
Check with the dealers on the right for upcoming availability.
Details follow:
イセーニン (ISE-NIN) VOICE brings the legendary Japanese discrete analog sound into a compact 100% analogue Eurorack creation. Ideal for combination with an x0x techno rig, the full depth of rich sonic potential and programmability of ISE-NIN can now be patched into new modular concoctions. A full complement of iconic analog oscillators, filters, envelopes, and modulation make this at once a full-featured semi-modular synth on its own, and a powerful addition to any rig with the addition of ISE-NIN BREAKOUT.
Check with the dealers on the right for upcoming availability.
Details follow:
KIJIMI MK2 is crafted to be one of the most powerful polysynths ever built, all behind intuitive front-panel controls, from its continuous timbral variation to its exhaustive modulation matrix. The Black Corporation original features planetary-sized analog sound, inspired by the best of rare and classic synths, but unique to our own parallel galaxy.
Six and four octave versions. Interesting flap on the six octave.
Press release follows:
ASM applies celebratory ‘cosmetic facelift’ to Hydrasynth Keyboard and Hydrasynth Deluxe to form 5th Anniversary Silver Edition models
LOS ANGELES, CA, USA/HONG KONG, CHINA: Ashun Sound Machines (ASM) is proud to celebrate its fifth anniversary as a company that is passionate about using technology to create exciting products that spark creativity by introducing two-limited edition models of its Hydrasynth digital wave morphing synthesizer with proprietary ASM Polytouch® technology to provide responsive velocity and expressive polyphonic aftertouch — applying a celebratory ‘cosmetic facelift’ to form the aptly-named Hydrasynth Keyboard 5th Anniversary Silver Edition and Hydrasynth Deluxe 5th Anniversary Silver Edition — at SUPERBOOTH24, May 16-18, FEZ-Berlin, Germany…
Certainly celebrating its fifth anniversary milestone in stunning style, ASM’s Hydrasynth Keyboard 5th Anniversary Silver Edition and Hydrasynth Deluxe 5th Anniversary Silver Edition are each limited to 200-unit runs that will surely become highly-sought- after collector’s items, prized by serious synthesizer aficionados. Appropriately, each limited-edition model boasts a sparkling silver finish with a custom 5TH ANNIVERSARY SILVER EDITION print on the top panel, duly distinguishing them from the ‘standard’ Hydrasynth Keyboard — launched in 2019 to widespread critical acclaim as a digital wave morphing synthesizer featuring an ASM Polytouch® 49-note polyphonic aftertouch keybed and a user-assignable ribbon controller — and Hydrasynth Deluxe — itself offering a dual sound engine setup and the largest (73-note) ASM Polytouch® polyphonic aftertouch keybed to date upon its introduction in 2021 — models that are still going strong today thanks to regular firmware updates; by that same token, Hydrasynth Keyboard 5th Anniversary Silver Edition and Hydrasynth Deluxe 5th Anniversary Silver Edition’s custom-made side panels prominently feature the HYDRASYNTH logo, while both synths ship with a Certificate of Authenticity showing the unit number — not forgetting, of course, the silver sticker that is included in both packages.
Applying a fine finishing touch to the celebratory proceedings, ASM has closely collaborated with a carefully chosen team of specialist sound designers, duly including an exclusive custom patch bank on both limited-edition models to further commemorate its fifth anniversary as a company that is passionate about using technology to create exciting products — products that definitely don’t come much more exciting than Hydrasynth Keyboard 5th Anniversary Silver Edition and Hydrasynth Deluxe 5th Anniversary Silver Edition!
Anyone attending SUPERBOOTH24, May 16-18, FEZ-Berlin, Germany is invited to swing by Booth H205 where ASM is introducing Hydrasynth Keyboard 5th Anniversary Silver Edition and Hydrasynth Deluxe 5th Anniversary Silver Edition, exhibiting them alongside their ‘standard’ synth siblings for all to see and hear. However, anyone wishing to buy a Hydrasynth Keyboard 5th Anniversary Silver Edition and/or Hydrasynth Deluxe 5th Anniversary Silver Edition will have to practice a little patience — but rest assured they will be well worth the wait.
Expected to ship in June 2024, Hydrasynth Keyboard 5th Anniversary Silver Edition and Hydrasynth Deluxe 5th Anniversary Silver Edition will be available to purchase — priced at an MSRP of $1,649.00 USD ($1,449.00 USD MAP)/€2,049.00 EUR/£1,799.00 GBP and an MSRP of $2,149.00 USD ($1,949.00 USD MAP)/ €2,649.00 EUR/£2,299.00 GBP, respectively.
Hydrasynth Keyboard 5th Anniversary Silver Edition shares the same specifications as the ‘standard’ Hydrasynth Keyboard.
"We at Erica Synths in collaboration with 112dB have developed a unique new hardware reverb effects unit. We focused on the musical aspect of the effect – extremely long decay tails are possible without losing harmonic integrity and since multiple parameters can be adjusted at once, notes can be played individually and held in chords, pitch-shifted at a whim or used to create massive, ambient textures.
Introducing the Nightverb – a stereo reverb with a unique and musical custom algorithm, save/recall functions for all parameters, all in a sleek aluminum case to aesthetically match our lineup of desktop units."
GRAPHIC RESONANT EQUALIZER
We realized it’s about time to expand the Erica Synths Graphic series of Eurorack modules with a unique sound shaping module. Introducing the Graphic Resonant Equalizer – a 10-band resonant equalizer with a fully-analogue signal path and digital control over individual band levels.
This new architecture gives an unprecedented level of control for shaping sounds with the possibility of saving presets, randomizing band levels, applying clocked modulations and even allowing for the module to act as an unconventional multimode filter.
The CV inputs for all bands and the clock input allow for integrating the Graphic Resonant Equalizer into any Eurorack system. Whether you’re looking for a delicate sound design tool for balancing out the frequencies in your patch to sound just right or an experimental scream machine that can mangle any sound source into uncharted territory, the module does it all – a versatile secret weapon for your rack!
Features:
10 band analogue resonant equalizer
Digital control over band levels
CV control over each band level
Configurable resonance loops (one or several bands)
EQ, Lowpass, bandpass, highpass and notch filter modes
Patch memory
Clock input for clocked modulations or patch selection
Spectrum analyzer mode
An optional expander for hands-on control of each band’s boost/cut
Module width – 20 HP
0:00 Intro
0:30 Kit Example 1
1:25 Kit Example 2
2:50 Kit Example 3
4:04 Kit Example 4
4:38 Kit Example 5
5:22 Kit Example 6
6:14 Kit Example 7
7:07 Kit Example 8
7:32 Kit Example 9
8:20 Kit Example 10
9:12 Kit Example 11
"At Superbooth 2024, Finegear showcased their latest creations, the Dirt Magnet and the ModMix*. In an interview with Sonic State, Christian from *Fine Gear highlighted the features of the Dirt Magnet, a two-tap tape delay with a mixable tap, preamp from the Space Echo, CV-controllable speed, feedback, and panning, as well as additional effects like noise, crackle, ring mod, and MS-20 style filter. The Dirt Magnet is expected to be available in a couple of weeks for a price of $1200.
The Modmix is described as an experimental mixer that can also function as an instrument itself, allowing for feedback, no-input music, and modulation with CVs. The ModMix features 4 channels, 4 aux sends with feedback switches, and CV-controllable volume and panning.
"At Superbooth 2024 we met up with Ian at Melbourne Instruments who introduced us to Delia*, their new polysynth. Delia shares *Nina*'s motorized control surface, but Ian told us that it's a substantial re-invention of what *Nina can do.
With a 49 note keyboard, the six voice synth is mainly digital, but with a final analogue ladder filter and VCA designed to have a tighter, more controlled sound. The filter is multi mode, with the ability to set high pass and low pass stages with independent resonance amounts. The entire digital stage of the synth can be doubled, so in bi-timbral mode you get 12 complete voices into 6 filters and VCAs.
Delia has a 3-stage overdrive, a wealth of modulation possibilities, and a chorus, reverb and delay which can run in series or in parallel.
Delia Available June 2024 Price: 2,300 Euros 2,200 GBP 2,399 USD"
See the Melbourne Instruments label below for more and/or do a search for Melbourne Instruments Delia on the top right of the site.
"At Superbooth 2024 we met Pit from *Silhouette*, and he showed us his new instument, *Silhouette Sport*.
Silhouette Sport is a diminutive version of the original Silhouette synth, and is based on the same concept of using a camera to interpret incoming visuals and convert them to sound. *Silhouette Sport *has a built in screen, and lets you import image or movie files, but Pit focussed on demonstrating the synth by pointing it at the Superbooth punters. Silhouette Sport is so portable that it transforms the synth and multiplies its possibilities. It's also now possible to convert incoming sound directly into video, and in turn re-inject those visuals into the Silhouette.
Silhouette Sport Available: December 2024 Price: TBC"
"At Superbooth 2024, we met Leo from Microrack to talk about their new concept of modular synthesis in a compact format. These innovative modular synths aim to be the most accessible on the market, providing a powerful and musical sound for beginners and experienced users alike. The setup showcased at the event included three VCOs and a filter module, demonstrating the potential for creative sound manipulation and experimentation. Leo explained that the self-contained unit is portable and can be powered by a power bank, allowing users to create music on the go.
In addition to the modular synth setup, Microrack *also introduced *DIY modules that enable users to customize their own synth on a breadboard platform. The small jumper wires used for patching are flexible and durable, enhancing the user experience and offering a diverse range of creative possibilities. Leo highlighted the educational aspect of the project, emphasizing the importance of making modular synthesis accessible to users of all skill levels. The Microrack products are set to launch on Kickstarter in June, with the aim of providing educational materials alongside the hardware for a comprehensive user experience. For more information on *Micro Rack* products and their upcoming Kickstarter launch, visit their website.
"At Superbooth 2024, Francesco from FCPro Audio showcased the Jump Mixthesizer , a versatile mixer designed for live sets and jam sessions and focussed squarely on mixing synths. With 4 mono channels and 4 stereo channels, the Jump mixer allows for vinyl-style selection on two stereo channels, perfect for creating a DJ-hybrid set alongside live instruments. The mixer features unique loop-cut options in the stereo channels, an isolator with three bands in the master, a microphone input with loop-cut, and individual channel solo capabilities for silent operation.
Francesco mentioned that the prototype of the mixer-sizer Jump is nearing completion and is expected to be available to the public in September. While the price has not been finalized yet, he hinted at a special"
"In this video we explore how to use Spectravox in Vocoder mode to process vocals.
We begin by hooking up a dynamic microphone (in this case the Shure SM58) to the program input and adjusting the preamplifier gain to an appropriate level. This allows us to create classic analog vocoder sounds with our voice and Spectravox’s internal carrier oscillator and white noise generator. We next look at how to use the program envelope follower and an attenuator to increase the intelligibility of Spectravox and capture the dynamics of our voice. Finally, we connect Matriarch to the carrier input of Spectravox to be able to vocode chords and polyphonic material with our voice."
"In this video we explore how to use Spectravox in Vocoder mode to vocode a drum machine.
By using a drum machine (in this video the Roland TR-606) in place of a microphone as the program input to a vocoder, we can map the rhythmic and tonal information of that drum machine on to Spectravox’s carrier oscillator and white noise generator. Spectravox’s Spectral Shift function allows you to move all of the filters up and down while resonance will impart more colorful and metallic tones. In this video we look further at how to use the filter bank patch bay to rearrange the envelope follower outputs and control voltage inputs of the two filter banks inside Spectravox to scramble the frequency spectrum. We also look at how all those inputs and outputs can be combined with the additional patch points on Spectravox for creative and interesting modulation."
We sent Hazel one of our prototype builds of our new instrument, the Super 8. We wanted her to capture her first impressions of the synth, and take a little dive into the sonic possibilities, and I think we can all agree the sounds she built from scratch are nothing short of outstanding.
More from Hazel here:
https://www.hazelmills.com/"
"Hi all, sorry for not being more active here
Here is a multi track demo greek style entirely made using the new Arturia Polybrute 12
Video is, .... well, I had to make something to go with the video, and did not have much time for that ....
Enjoy, I'll do my best to make more content"
"Oneiroi is an ambient and drone-like soundscapes full voice.
At his core, there is a Wavetable/Supersaw, Sine Wave Oscillator and a joyful Looper. This is followed by an FX section featuring a Multimode filter, a Resonator, a Delay, and a Reverb.
Its randomizer creates instant patches at the touch of a button.
The Looper can record the external input or the output for 'Sound On Sound' looping.
A full-stereo synthesizer that easily creates dense atmospheres for hypnotic music or cinematic sound design.
Featuring three oscillators, four effects, a looper, modulation with complex routing, and a randomizer."
"At Superbooth 2024, Serge *from *Elta Music showcased the updated version of their popular Solar 42 synth, now dubbed *Solar 42F*. The main addition to this version is stereo distortion on the output, along with cosmetic updates like color-coded ports and firmware tweaks. According to *Serge*, these updates were made based on continuous refinement of the machine, with a focus on enhancing user experience. Despite not being a major overhaul, the changes are deemed very useful for users. All new Solars will be shipped in this updated version, including those with previously placed orders.
The Solar 42F features a streamlined mixer layout for easier navigation of voice volumes, along with the stereo distortion feature on the main output. The updated version will be the standard for all future shipments of the Solar 42, and with production underway, the new iteration promises to deliver an improved user experience without a price increase.
"At Superbooth 2024, we met up with Paul Whittington from PWM who presented the long-awaited Mantis synthesizer. The Mantis boasts a duophonic design with the capability to produce four fully formed voices, making it a potent polysynth. With 100 presets in each of its two banks, the Mantis offers a diverse range of sounds through its two filters which can be panned in the stereo field.
Mantis also includes onboard effects such as chorus and reverb, adding depth and character to its sonic capabilities, and can be powered via usb c. With MIDI control for every parameter and full-size MIDI connectivity, the Mantis was designed in collaboration with the late, great Chris Huggett, so it's bound to become a classic.
Mantis Available now. Price: 1,599 Euros 1,349 GBP 1,499 USD"
"At Superbooth 2024 we met up with Orfeas from Dreadbox who introduced us to the third, and probably final edition of Murmux*, which in this iteration has 8 voice polyphony. Murmux has 2 oscillators per voice, each with wave folding and envelope, noise or LFO modulations. There is a master detune and glide, and each voice gets a 24dB low pass and a 6 dB high pass filter, a bass boost for the high pass and there are 2 envelopes per voice. *Murmux gives you 9 syncable LFOs which is one per voice and one global, and using the target button you can send modulations just about anywhere.
It comes with a classic BBD and also the delay from the Erebus which can give chorus type effects.
"At Superbooth 2024, Vaclav from Bastl showcased two new products: Crust and the Thyme Plus*. *Crust *is a drum voice module that offers a variety of sound options with Octave control, pitch envelope, noise and detuning for oscillator modulation, and when modulated can produce some crunchy kick and snare action, and even play melodic lines. *Thyme Plus is a complex delay unit with multi-step delays, modulation sources like LFO and envelope, and stereo modulation capabilities. It offers a sound-designing approach to delay effects and comes with preset buttons for easy access to different settings.
"At Superbooth 2024, We Noise Makers unveiled their latest creation, PGB-1 a pocket groove box designed by *Fabien*. This compact device offers six synthesizer voices and two samplers, all in a portable and battery-powered form factor. The device features various tracks for different sounds, one of the tracks being polyphonic, a sequencer with 16-step patterns, song mode, probability-based triggers, parameter locks and more. Additionally, it includes USB-C for charging and data transfer, audio output, stereo audio input, MIDI in and out, TRS-A, and an onboard microphone for creating custom samples.
The standout feature of this pocket groove box is its open-source nature, allowing users to add more synth engines and customize the firmware. With plans to expand the ecosystem and potentially introduce new devices in the future, We Noise Makers aims to create a community-driven platform for music production. The crowdfunding campaign on crowd supply has been successfully funded, giving backers the opportunity to support the project before it ends on May 30th.
https://weenoisemakers.com/"
See the Wee Noise Makers label below for additional posts.
"At Superbooth 2024, Wavy Industries made a memorable debut, arriving by bike with their innovative Bluetooth devices. Rein, the company representative highlighted the unique features of their Monkey Bluetooth keyboard. This compact keyboard allows seamless connectivity to iPads or PCs, boasting an impressive battery life lasting several months. Beyond its primary function as a keyboard, this device offers a range of MIDI effects like a doubler and arpeggiator, along with 10 presets for each. Additionally, the keyboard includes a sequencer feature, allowing users to create complex musical compositions directly through Ableton.
"At Superbooth 2024, Dan Green from 4MS unveiled the highly anticipated MetaModule*, a groundbreaking module that brings virtual software patches to Eurorack hardware. Designed to merge the benefits of software and hardware, the *MetaModule features over 160 built-in modules, including popular offerings from Mutable Instruments and various third-party companies like Vogue Audio and Chowdhury DSP. It's possible to import further modules using the plug-in system, so the system can keep growing.
What sets the MetaModule apart is its ability to seamlessly integrate with VCV Rack*, a free open-source software platform for Eurorack virtual environments. Users can create patches on their computer and easily transfer them to the *MetaModule via SD card or USB stick, allowing for a versatile and tactile experience.
"At Superbooth 2024, Stijn from This Is Not Rocket Science showcased Geometric Anomaly*, a new module that unexpectedly came into existence as a birthday present for the creator. This dual oscillator synthesizer voice is a spiritual successor to *Rectangular Thing and incorporates lessons learned from the production of the *Fenix*. Featuring two filters, two envelopes, and a variety of modulation inputs, the Geometric Anomaly offers a comprehensive sound palette with unique cross modulation options. The state variable filter from the Fenix adds versatility to the sound design by enabling spectral morphing and raw, dynamic textures that can be tamed with the final low pass ladder filter.
For a limited production run of 30-40 units expected in July, the Geometric Anomaly is priced around 700 Euros, with potential adjustments due to inflation.jn
"George from UDO Audio *showcased the latest addition to their lineup at Superbooth 2024, the *Super 8 synthesizer. Building on their previous releases, the Super 8 aims to strike a balance between power and portability, sitting comfortably between the Super 6 and the Gemini. With 16 voices and a focus on playability and performance, this new synth offers a versatile range of sounds and capabilities.
Featuring a dual-layer architecture with independent effects per layer, the Super 8 delivers a warm and analog feel with a touch-sensitive poly aftertouch keyboard."
"At Superbooth 2024, we met up with Richard Nicol from Pittburgh Modular who introduced us to the eagerly anticipated Voltage Lab 2 synthesizer. This new iteration, five years in the making, builds upon the success of the original Voltage Lab with innovative features like independent waveform manipulation, a six-stage wave folder, pulse symmetry, and a reflection circuit. The Voltage Lab 2 offers a unique approach to synthesis, expanding on traditional West Coast synthesis techniques and providing a diverse palette of sounds.
In addition to the robust synthesis capabilities, the Voltage Lab 2 also includes a two-channel, 16-step controller for sequencing and control. This versatile controller features capacitive touch pads, pitch outputs, CV outputs, trigger gate outs, and scan inputs for added flexibility in performance and experimentation.
Voltage Lab 2: Available for Pre-order, shipping June 2024. Price: 2,149 USD"
