MATRIXSYNTH: Sunday, March 23, 2025

Sunday, March 23, 2025

Ambient Cassette Tape Loop + Prophet REV2

video upload by Le Code

"What a pleasure to play with these tapes! The Tascam 414 Portastudio works very well and allows me to easily record my first tape loops.

I add the Prophet Rev2 and some effects, and here's a whole new way of creating ambient music.

AMBIENT CASSETTE TAPE LOOP WITH PROPHET REV2
#ambient #ambientmusic #tapeloops #tapeloop #cassette #rev2

Music written and produced by Alexandre de Charrin
Additional pedals effects : Hologram Microcosm and Strymon Big Sky.
Recorded with Steinberg UR824

FREE DOWNLOAD
Download my 4-track EP 'Introspection' for free
★ https://bit.ly/3T3Ixai"

PlantsSystem-Interaction

video upload by plantssystem

"'Interaction' is a work that opens up new musical possibilities through the resonance of the beautiful sound of the Prophet-5 and the innovative musicality of the atarist m. Please give this one-of-a-kind sound a try."

MOTM / Synthesis Technology's Paul Schreiber Has Passed Away

Paul Schreiber at CONTROL in 2018

It has come to my attention that Paul Schreiber has passed away.

Pictured: Paul Schreiber at the 2006 NAMM show. Top from this previous post (pic by fr1zz), and bottom from this post (pic by Synthtopia) - this is the first image of Paul on the site. There is one comment in that post: "He's a good guy." Indeed.

Readers of the site should be familiar with his work. He was the man behind MOTM and Synthesis Technology.

To say Paul was one of the greats to influence the synth community would be an understatement. He was pivital to the rebirth of modular synthesizers. He started when modular as we know it today was in its infancy, as one of a very small group of large format DIY modular manufacturers along with Blacet, Modcan, Cynthia, Wiard, Oakley, STG, Catgirl/CGS, Tellun/Lower West Side Studio YuSynth, Jurgen Haible, and of course DIY staples like Thomas Henry/ MFOS, Ray Wilson and PAiA (see this post for some modular formats back in 2007). I focused mainly on those offering DIY. There were other manufacturers including Synthesizers.com, Club of the Knobs, MOS-LAB, Moon Modular, MacBeth, CMS, and more. Feel free to mention others in the comments. This post is about Paul, but I think it's important to reflect on some of the large format modular manufactures he was amongst at the time.

Paul created the MOTM format of 5U modules in 1998. MOTM stood for Module of the Month offering monthly DIY kits. From Wikipedia: "MOTM was created by Paul Schreiber in 1998. The system was created in part due to the renewed interest in large-format analog modular systems that occurred in the late 1990s. Between 1998 and 2021, over 8000 modules were sold. The company, Synthesis Technology, also offered a limited number of modules in Eurorack[2] and Frac[3] format."

He was also helped design the Moog/Realistic MG-1. From Wikipedia: "In 1980, Moog Music was seeking to contract manufacture a mass-marketable synthesizer which could be sold via a large retailer. Moog representatives secured an appointment at the Radio Shack corporate offices for a 5-minute demonstration. Radio Shack approved the concept, and Paul Schreiber (then employed by Tandy Systems Development) worked together with Moog on the synthesizer's design to achieve Radio Shack's price requirements.[2][3]"

He later joined the eurorack scene with Synthesis Technology branded modules. FYI, his site for MOTM was always http://www.synthtech.com/, short for Synthesis Technology. The first post to mention Paul and MOTM was posted just under twenty years ago here on MATRIXSYNTH back on August 26, 2005. If you click through you will see it was a post announcing the MOTM/synthtech.com site was going down for the weekend. He announced he was retiring from the synthesizer business in August of 2023.

I beleive the first synthtech eurorack module was the MOTM E340 Cloud Generator. The first demos were posted on July 14, 2009, followed by a mockup of the front panel on July 20. The first post to mention Synthesis Technology was an Epic Son track by John L Rice in August of 2011. Since then there has been approximately 845 posts to feature MOTM, and at least 398 Synthtech.

You can find a number of interviews with Paul in previous posts here.

It's worth repeating, Paul Schreiber was one of the key figures that brought modular back to the masses. He was both respected and loved by the synth community. It's impossible to overstate his influence. He will be missed.

The following are the first the last video interviews with Paul to be featured on the site:

The SynthSummitShow Episode 2: Paul Schreiber (Synthesis Technology) and A.Dapt (music producer) ...

Streamed live on Oct 2, 2015 Flux302 of Fluxwithit.com. Details previously posted here.

SysEx Dumpster - Episode 44 - a conversation with Paul Schreiber
video upload by Sysex Dumpster on Jul 30, 2023. Details previously posted here.

The first videos to feature Paul presenting a module was back on January 3, 2010, and the first interview on SoundCloud in 2013, and he was of course featured in the modular documentary film I Dream of Wires.

Synth jam - Model 101, TR 505 and Prophet 5 Rev. 3

video upload by Franz Kreimer Keys

"This is a short sunday afternoon jam with my Roland System 100 Model 101, TR505 Drumcomputer and Sequential Prophet 5 Rev. 3.
I'm using Arturia's Beatstep pro as Sequenzer for Midi Clock and for triggering the Model 101 via CV."

Alfa AS3109 VS IR3109N Quick Comparison

video upload by gstormelectro

"Audio + Video by G-Storm Electro c. 2025

Many have commented about my last video [posted here] why I fool around w/ reclaiming the old chips when Alfa has some remakes on the market. So here's a quick comparison of the Alfa AS3109 remakes vs. IR3109N OTA chips in my 101-VCF tester module. For me the Alfa behaves quite differently with regard to signal clipping and output magnitude. Enough as to not recommend them as a 1-to-1 replacement in vintage synths and the reason I don't use them in my own modules. It's too bad, I enjoy using other kinds of Alfa chips 3320/3340/3350 in other filters and my 101-VCO.

G-Storm Electro:

MUSIC https://gstormelectro.bandcamp.com/
BLOG http://gstormelectronica.blogspot.com/
LISTEN/DOWNLOAD http://soundcloud.com/gstormelectro
REVERB https://reverb.com/shop/gstormelectro"

‪@ModularWorld‬ Set

video upload by Jon Gee

"20 min set for the ⁠‪@ModularWorld‬ show on 3/23/25

Check out the channel! Also check out ‪@ajohnsonstudio‬

Thanks to ⁠‪@JohnoWells‬ for your beloved channel and for reaching out.

Thank you also ⁠‪@chris_economou‬ for the Camera B and dancing bliss❤️

Featuring:

⁠‪@nyppy‬ Neutral Labs Elmyra 2
⁠‪@MAKEN0ISEMUSIC‬ Strega and 0-Ctrl
⁠‪@intellijel‬ Cascadia, Sealegs
⁠‪@somasynths‬ Pulsar-23
⁠‪@ArturiaOfficial‬ Polybrute
⁠‪@SequentialLLC‬ OB-6
⁠‪@beetlecrabaudio‬ Tempera"

LSPXPO 2025: Erica Synths Echolocator - first look

video upload by sonicstate

"There was an Erica Synths stand at the show, but no one available to demo the newly-released *Echolocator*, so Matt bravely took on the task himself. The Echolocator is similar in layout to the *NightVerb*, but as the name suggests, is a delay-focused unit.

We'll be having a more in-depth look soon, this was very much a quick first impressions taster, but it sounds promising."

LSPXPO 2025: Chase Bliss - Onward and Clean demos

video upload by sonicstate

"Chase Bliss make interesting pedals - some are creative takes on existing ideas, others are full-on out-there bonkers weird & wonderful - but boring they are not. We have some ourselves, and if Chase Bliss are at a show, we try to check out what they've been working on, so we asked Tyler to demo a couple of their newcomers; Onward and *Clean*."

LSPXPO 2025: ALM Busy Circuits S.B.G-PRO

video upload by sonicstate

"Rupert from ALM showed us the upgraded MCO Mark II module, and the new *S.B.G-PRO*, designed for integrating Eurorack systems with external pro audio equipment. The S.B.G-PRO has quarter-inch jack inputs, dry/wet mix, input/output controls, and handles both balanced and unbalanced lines.

Ideal for using external effects, it simplified studio integration with modules like guitar pedals."

LSPXPO 2025: Synth Evolution's Vintage Synthesizer Illustrations

video upload by sonicstate

"At the LSPXPO 2025, we met Oli Freke from *Synth Evolution*, who shares his passion for synthesizers through his unique illustrated books and posters. They're great. (We have a poster on the wall at the Sonic office ;-)

More Info:
https://www.synthevolution.net/"

LSPXPO 2025: Music Thing Modular: Workshop System

video upload by sonicstate

"We've come across Music Thing Modular's Workshop System previously - the DIY only modular synth has a number of different sections, but one in particular allows for the addition of program cards to transform it into various functions, and apparently this has lead to a bit of a community, creating cards such as Backyard"

Sequential Take 5 - Waterfall

video upload by SirJon

"New Track made entirely with the Sequential Take 5 (except the drums)"

Crumar Bit01/Solton Project100/Elka EK22/Solton M160/Orla DSE24 - Atari ST Pulsar Sequencing

video upload by VSMI - Vintage Synths Made in Italy

"3 lines sequencing for 5 Vintage Synthesizers Made in Italy
Crumar Bit01, Solton Project100, Elka EK22, Solton M160, Orla DSE24.
Atari ST Pulsar Sequencer by Neil Wakeling"

LSPXPO 2025: Venus Instruments Veno Orbit

video upload by sonicstate

"Adam from *Venus Instruments*, a London-based company, introduced us to the *Veno Orbit*, their upcoming experimental sampler. Formerly known as the Veno Looper, the Vino Orbit offered way more than just looping capabilities, so it got a hasty rename, just a couple of days ago.

With really gorgeous visual display of what's going on, The Veno Orbit allows you to modulate various parameters such as start, length, pitch, and direction, and has two channels with mirrored controls, providing an intuitive user interface."

LSPXPO 2025: Clacktronics: Flatpack Modular in a Ring Binder

video upload by sonicstate

"We've filmed this before, but it's such a cool idea we had to drop by again and see Ben*, who introduced us to the *Build Your Own Modular system. This Eurorack kit offers you the opportunity to construct your own modular synthesizer.

The kit arrives in a ring binder format, where the dividers themselves are the circuit boards. As Ben explained, the designs are open source, allowing you to modify or expand upon them.

The kit includes various modules like an LFO, envelope generator, VCOs, and more, and encourages a hands-on approach with simple through-hole components. A Discord community supports builders for troubleshooting and enhancements.

Ben also shared news about an upcoming non-DIY speaker module, designed with enhanced bass response. Fitting seamlessly into your rack, it is anticipated to be priced just over £100. Ben plans further developments and features, potentially unveiled at Superbooth in May."

LSPXPO 2025: Play Basslines on the Modor DR-2 Drum Machine

video upload by sonicstate

"It's been a little while since we caught up with Marcel from Modor, so it was great to see him again, bearing news of updates to the *DR2 6-channel drum machine*, recently adding baseline synthesis algorithms. This update enabled new possibilities like using parameter locks on pitch to program melodies with simple one oscillator synthesis models.

The DR2 features six instruments, each capable of utilizing distinct synthesis models out of the twenty available for creating various drum sounds, all generated through real-time synthesis. An on-board step sequencer and an optional menu for settings facilitate this. Despite numerous updates and features, frequent menu access is rarely required unless adjusting systems settings. Marcel also demonstrated how P-locks could be used creatively to alter pitch for melody creation, explaining that while one channel is dedicated to bass lines, it leaves five other channels for drum use."

LSPXPO 2025: Enjoy Electronics - DeFeel

video upload by sonicstate

"At the London Synth & Pedal Expo, we caught up with Luca Simone from *Enjoy Electronics*, who detailed the features of their *DeFeel *module. The device was introduced to sit between a sequencer and a synthesizer in a modular setup, allowing you to customize step-generated sequences and manage fill lengths.

The DeFeel includes multiple CV outputs, each with optional quantization, enabling you to independently set minimum and maximum CV values. An intuitive touch interface simplifies navigation, even allowing real-time recording of adjustments made directly on the device."

LSPXPO 2025: Vpme.de - Power your Eurorig from a USB-C Battery

video upload by sonicstate

"This is one of those 'why has nobody done this before?' ideas - apologies if somebody has already done this and we just missed it, but kudos to vpme.de for bringing this out: a small module for your Eurorack rig that can accept power from a regular USB-C power bank and convert it into the 12V and 5V voltages needed to run Eurorack cases."

New Synclavier ORK II Keyboard Synthesizer In the Works

Brochure spotted by Andrew Ward at the Synclavier booth at this weekend's London Synth & Pedal Expo.

Visible text from the brochure:

"For over four decades, Synclavior hos defined the pinnacle of digital audio innovation, shaping music history.

Today, we merge our legendary sound with modern technology, delivering tools that empower creators to push sonic boundaries.

INTRODUCING THE SYNCLAVIER ORK II KEYBOARD
The ORK Il is envisioned as a groundbreaking instrument that builds on the acclaimed capabilities of Synclavier Il and Regen. Designed for professional musicians, producers, and sound designers, this keyboard fuses cutting-edge technology with legendary Synclavier sound quality to deliver an unparalleled creative tool.

Core Features at a Glance
Synclavier Heritage, Expanded Power
Enjoy all the features that made the Synclavier Il and Regen revolutionary, now enhanced with even greater flexibility and control. The ORK II combines iconic additive and FM synthesis with subtractive synthesis and intuitive hands-on performance controls.

Next-Level DSP Effects Suite
Transform your sound with a curated set of premium DSP effects, including:
Reverb: Create lush, immersive soundscapes.
Delay: Add rhythmic echoes and intricate time-based effects
Modulation Effects: Enhance your tones with..."

How to Make Percussion Sounds on the Sonicware Liven Ambient Ø | Percussion Synthesis Tutorial

video upload by Sonic Cartography

"In this tutorial, I’ll show you how to make percussion sounds on the Sonicware Liven Ambient Ø. With its combination of wavetable, ring modulation and FM synthesis, the synthesizer is surpassingly capable in this regard. It can also be a good starting point for learning about percussion synthesis (or at least it was for me). The video covers a variety of percussive sounds, including drums, high hats, and other melodic percussion sounds, reminiscent of bells, xylophones, marimbas, toy pianos etc."

Table of contents:
0:00 - Intro / Preview
1:07 - Percussion Basics + Using Any Structure for This
19:30 - Using Atmos 1 for More Complex Sounds
28:36 - Using Atmos 2 for Even More Complex Sounds
36:28 - Using Atmos 2 for Even More Complexererer Sounds
47:08 - Sequencing Percussion Sounds

ALEQ IMPRO 2025 #3

video upload by ALEQ Modular

"Flowers start to grow, it's time for a new impro.

This time, I only use the DUAL UNDULA OSCILLATOR from LE.
(https://www.larix-elektro.com/)
Because I have access to the prototypes and the demo modules, I can work with four of them on the same time. Experimenting vairous use of the module: sound source, slow modulation or filter.

Ok, it's a basic modular improvisation, nothing too complex.
Sometime it's enough..."

Yamaha Montage M AN-X virtual analog engine walkthrough

video upload by Floyd Steinberg

"Here's me going through all the screens and controls of #Yamaha's #AN-X synth engine (found in the Montage M #synthesizer keyboard). So if you found yourself asking "can I fold that slightly beveled saw wave there?" recently, you will find answers here.
Table of contents:

00:00 intended audience for this video
00:47 user interface basics
01:43 create a new patch
02:16 AN-X architecture
02:42 basic wave forms
03:12 wave shaping
04:09 fm and ring modulation
04:56 pulse width modulation (pwm)
05:31 oscillator sync
06:17 noise
06:47 wave folding
08:25 filters
10:12 filter envelope, lfo, drive, velocity
11:39 amplitude envelopes, lfo and panning
12:30 global effects send
12:57 pitch envelope and lfo, portamento
14:30 modulator modulation
15:03 per-voice effects
15:50 global effects
16:41 per-voice equalizer
17:04 motion sequencer
18:58 polyphonic aftertouch (poly at)
20:24 oscillator drift, aging and spreading
22:01 my thoughts on the AN-X engine
23:22 some favourite sounds (23:53, 24:24, 24:55, 25:26, 25:45, 26:22, 26:53, 27:22, 27:53, 28:17)
28:48 do the youtube thing!

HÄLP ZIS CHANNEL
https://www.patreon.com/floyd_steinberg
https://floydsteinberg.gumroad.com/
https://floydsteinberg.bandcamp.com/"