'An Unearthly Choir' on an AJH SYNTH #eurorack Modular Synth System

video upload by AJH Synth Official

"A 3-part/3-voice use of human voice & choir-like sounds performed on a AJH SYNTH RadioPhonic Eurorack modular system. No samples were used, this is purely analogue oscillators, filters, modulation, and a wave form animator one one of the voices.

Whilst the RadioPhonic system was used here, it is of course modular, so these modules can be acquired individually or as part of smaller systems, meaning each part could be achieved using the same modules in your own custom system.

Key MiniMod modules used:
Vintage Transistor Core VCO
Wave Swam
Fixed Filter Bank 914
Transistor Ladder Filter
Sonic XV Diode Ladder Filter

Video by ‪@DreamsOfWires‬"

Live Set Re-recorded - from Superbooth25, feat AJH SYNTH all-analogue modules

video upload by AJH Synth Official

"This is a re-recording of a 20-minute live set by @DreamsOfWires for Superbooth25, and consists of two old tracks from my video back-catalog. It's quite a minimal rig, configured as two all-analogue synth voices - one for melodic patterns, one for pitched drone parts.
The actual performance at the event suffered technical problems as a result of failing cables and a dodgy musician's inability to recover much from it. As a result said musician decided to record a version of it after returning home, demonstrating how it should have sounded.
In my defence, this rig had been on display for 3 days at the AJH Synth booth, demoing modules, being re-patched, fiddled with, then re-patched, etc... but then again, a bad workman always blames their tools :P
I hope this version is more audible.

Modules used:
(AJH SYNTH)
Matrix VCF
Transistor Ladder Filter
Sonic XV Diode Ladder Filter
Vintage Transistor Core VCO x4
Sample Hold & Slew
Contour Generators
Wave Swarm
Ring SM
Muting Mixer
Discrete Cascaded VCA
Glide + Noise MkII
Dual LFO VCA
(Other brands)
Squarp Hermod+ sequencer
XAOC Devices Sarajewo analog delay
ALM Busy Circuits MFX for reverb
Cosmotronic Cosmix
Happy Nerding Isolator
Homemade case powered by Konstant Lab BoardPWR

The AJH SYNTH Eurorack modular range consists of high-end modules, all hand-made in the UK, most of which are based on classic, vintage designs, authentically recreating the circuitry of much sought-after analogue instruments and technologies of the past, whilst greatly expanding them, and bringing them to modern Eurorack levels of convenience, limitless flexibility, and reliability.
Official website page: https://ajhsynth.com

Check out the AJH Synth playlists for module 'User Guides', and 'Patch of The Week' videos, which will be either performances or 'how to' guides, detailing functions/methods, and a range of sounds, some familiar, some less so, containing a patch sheet at the end to show you how to construct it for yourself.

AJH Synth - Gesprächskonzert at SUPERBOOTH25

video upload by Superbooth Berlin

"AJH Synth demonstrate their range of modules with a nice live performance."

SUPERBOOTH 25: AJH Synth Matrix VCF

video upload by Sound On Sound magazine

"AJH Synth exhibit their new Matrix VCF module at Superbooth 25 in Berlin. Based on the multi-mode filter from the Oberheim Matrix 12, AJH Synth have upped the count in this Eurorack module to house 16 selectable filter modes, along with a host of other tone shaping controls."

32 analogue filter modes! The Matrix VCF from AJH Synth // "Eurorack's most versatile filter"?

video upload by DivKid

"Here's the new Matrix VCF from AJH Synth that presents a pretty wild 32 filter modes (or 16x2) and a hugely versatile tonal range all built on the foundation circuit of the filter section from the Oberheim Matrix 12. Additional modes and features were added and the option to self oscillate everything with an overdrive circuit in the resonance path inspired by the Formanta Polivoks synthesiser. Coupling the 16 modes with the option for two distinct resonance characters, along with all the modulation options and on board VCA offers a wealth of patch potential and we explore plenty of uses cases for unique and more advanced options in the video."

See the announcement post here.

*TIMING INDEX // CHAPTERS*

NT patches are no talking examples for musical interludes and further sonic exploration

00:00 Hello & patch previews

02:28 What is the Matrix VCF?

03:38 Feature run down

05:53 Raw filter sweeps - lots of them!!!

10:20 KILLER SQUELCH! Wet chewy acid + bonus choppy rhythmic action

13:02 NT Have 2 triangles ever sounded so good?

13:24 Super stepped random filter motion

15:52 Filter sequencing as a ‘riff maker’

18:06 NT Making Polivoks resonance even nastier!

18:34 A trip to the west coast with dynamic filter pings

21:20 NT PWM on steroids - notch filter emphasis

21:50 Fantastic formants - throaty vocal tones from audio rate modulation

23:55 Making audio rate modulation musical

27:13 NT Super chewy band pass filtering

27:36 All pass your way to analogue DX FM

31:36 NT PWM mode distortion

31:56 Phaser & tremolo FX

35:23 NT Face gurning Sherman style high pass

35:45 Bonkers mode modulation - fascinating!

38:09 Crazy sound design to turn beats into synths

40:35 NT Self patched insanity

40:59 Advanced ‘beyond basic’ kick drums

NEW MODULE! MATRIX VCF User Guide - Vintage 16-Mode Filter & VCA by AJH SYNTH for #eurorack

video upload by AJH Synth Official

"NEW MODULE! The MATRIX VCF & VCA by AJH SYNTH is a 16-mode filter based on the vintage Oberheim Matrix 12 & Xpander synthesisers of the 1980's. It has all 15 filter types of the original synth filter, plus an additional 4-pole all pass filter mode, AND a switchable resonance and distortion circuit based on the Polivoks synth, which flips the character of the filter on its head. It can go from smooth and crisp, to aggressive overdrive with screaming resonance in an instant. It is 14hp, and features its own built-in VCA, negating the need for an additional module to amplify its output, saving valuable rack space.

Frequency is controllable by 4 different CV inputs, resonance can also be controlled by CV, naturally the VCA, but also filter Mode can be selected by control voltages, meaning that a huge range of automation is possible, in addition to the physical pots for manual tweaking.

See the AJH SYNTH website for more details: https://ajhsynth.com/Matrix_VCF.html
[check with dealers on the right for availability]

INDEX:
00:00 Overview
01:58 Input & Output
04:25 Filter Mode
07:40 Freq Control
09:39 Self-oscillation
11:26 Patch Examples

The AJH SYNTH Eurorack range consists of high-end modules, all hand-made in the UK, most of which are based on classic, vintage designs, authentically recreating the circuitry of much sought-after analogue instruments and technologies of the past, whilst greatly expanding them, and bringing them to modern Eurorack levels of convenience, limitless flexibility, and reliability.

Video by @DreamsOfWires"


AJH Synth Matrix VCF

video upload by theianboddy

"AJH Synth - whom I collaborated with on the Tone Science Triple Cross & Chance Delay modules - have sent me over one of their new Matrix VCF filters. This wonderful sounding filter opened up a lot of new modular synth ideas, some of which I explore in this video."

Check with dealers on the right for availability.

DreamsOfWires Live with AJH SYNTH Coming to Superbooth25, Berlin 10th May #eurorack

video upload by AJH Synth Official

"‪@DreamsOfWires‬ Will be performing a short 20-minute set at Superbooth25 using AJH SYNTH modules, Saturday 10th, 3:20pm in the Auditorium.

Past music releases can be found here: https://tomorrowthecure.bandcamp.com"

AJH SYNTH MiniMod + SSL BiG SiX + VERMONA DSR-3 + BOSS DM-2W - First Play Session #eurorack

video upload by AJH Synth Official

"First experiment running the MiniMod through an ‪@solidstatelogic‬ BiG SiX mixer, with ‪@vermonagear‬ DSR-3 Stereo Spring Reverb and the humble little Boss DM-2W analog delay for external FX.
There are so many great options out there for mixing and effects nowadays, even within Eurorack itself. All have their strengths, but this time I'm going to have a play with a full-size mixer and external effects with a modest 6U 84hp AJH Synth system.

Modular: It's divided into two voices, based around 3 Vintage Transistor Core VCO's, Ring SM for sub-bass/sub-octave, Transistor Ladder Filter, and Sonic XV Diode Ladder Filter. Both VCF's are modulated by a Dual RVG Random Event Generator, and a Tap-Tempo VC-LFO is used as a clock divider. Dual Contours is the only envelope generator used here, and they're controlling filter frequency, rather than VCA level, which are both open.

Mixer: The SSL Big Six probably needs no introduction, but most useful here is that it features 2 stereo cues that can be used as effect sends, EQ and compressor per channel, and it functions as a USB-C audio interface, with every channel/output available as a separate input in a DAW.

Reverb: The Vermona DSR-3 is a stereo spring reverb, something that is very unique, as they are generally mono. However, it has two matching springs which can be used in 3 modes - stereo, dual mono (separate reverbs), or series (reverb A is past into reverb B for a much bigger mono reverb). In all modes it sound truly lovely - old-school analogue goodness, but with a clarity not normally found in spring reverbs.

Delay: The Boss DM-2W is an excellent re-issue of a classic. This modern version features a 'Custom' mode with longer, clearer delay (800ms), and a wet output, allowing it to be used as a send effect in a mixer setup such as this. Yeah, it's a guitar pedal, but it sounds great on synths too.

Video & Performance by @DreamsOfWires"

The past, present & future of AJH Synth // Celebrating 10 years of the MiniMod Eurorack range

video upload by DivKid

"I recently learnt that AJH Synth were celebrating 10 years since the release of their first modules with the MiniMod Eurorack range. Back then I was immediately taken by the quality of sound, vintage tone and open modular architecture capable of taking things way beyond the classic Moog MiniMoog Model D sound. I've got to know Allan over this past decade and we've worked together loads on modules that utterly nail that lush vintage analogue sound and also modern forward thinking new ideas ... so I jumped at the idea of making a celebration video!"

CLICK FOR MORE »

'Two Voices' Track recording with AJH Synth MiniMod Eurorack system

video upload by AJH Synth Official

"This was a real-time recording using a 3-VCO, 2 VCF modular system divided into 2 analogue synth voices. I used this system to record 5 tracks for a Bandcamp album, as performances without any overdubbing, yet using a modest amount of modules and gear:



The AJH SYNTH MiniMod system is an authentic recreation of the early R.A. Moog version of the Minimoog synthesiser, whilst some of the other other modules are also based on classic vintage synths. Because of this they can easily fill up a sound space with big, rich and characterful tones. This made them the ideal choice for a recording such as this. Without consciously setting out to do so, this particular track was more inspired by Arvo Pärt and the late Henryk Górecki than anything else.

Modules used:
Vintage Transistor Core VCO x3
Transistor Ladder Filter
Contour Generators
Discrete Cascaded VCA x2
Ring SM
Wave Swarm
Gemini 2412 (dual SEM filter)
Muting Mixer & VCA
Precision Voltages

Controllers:
Arturia Keystep 32
Doepfer Dark Time sequencer

Video & Performance by @DreamsOfWires"

V-SHAPE and SAMPLE HOLD & SLEW Stepped Wave-Shaping / Timbre Modulation Session #eurorack

video upload by AJH Synth Official

"Short performance example using Sample & Hold to add random modulation to wave shape in a musically intuitive way. The V-Shape is a very capable wave shaper, also featuring optional distortion, and voltage control over both. Here the wave shape of a simple triangle wave is being twisted to produce a much more interesting variety of timbres, each being instigated by gate signals from a keyboard CV controller. Gate signals sent to the Clock input of the Sample Hold & Slew module bypass its internal clock, and trigger it to create a new random voltage when a gate signal is received. This way a keyboard or sequencer can be used to step through the random voltages as desired. See the following video for an example doing this with a sequencer, also using the V-Shape: • Patch of the Week: 'Schulze School' -..." [2nd video in the playist here]

'Day After Drone' Minimal AJH Synth Eurorack Jam by ‪@DreamsOfWires‬

video upload by AJH Synth Official

"Minimal 2-Voice performance using AJH Synth modules, no keyboard or sequencer, just modulation and a precision voltage adder. Three oscillators, a Fixed Filter Bank and a bandpass diode ladder filter are used to create the sounds, which are modulated, triggered or controlled by an LFO, random voltages, and the voltage adder to transpose pitches in real time.
Performed by ‪@DreamsOfWires‬
Music available at: https://tomorrowthecure.bandcamp.com

Module list:
Glide + Noise
Vintage Transistor Core VCO x3
Fixed Filter Bank 914
Sonic XV multi-mode VCF
Dual LFO + VCA
Contour Generators
Discrete Cascaded VCA x2
Sample Hold & Slew
Precision Voltages
(also external digital reverb)

The AJH SYNTH Eurorack modular range consists of high-end modules, all hand-made in the UK, most of which are based on classic, vintage designs, authentically recreating the circuitry of much sought-after analogue instruments and technologies of the past, whilst greatly expanding them, and bringing them to modern Eurorack levels of convenience, limitless flexibility, and reliability. Official website page: https://ajhsynth.com"

BERLIN SCHOOL Schulze Style: Improvise & Overdub - All analogue eurorack modular sounds

video upload by AJH Synth Official

"Inspired by the way Klaus Schulze sometimes constructed his recordings. Those lengthy, iconic performances were often partly improvised, starting with a sequenced 'jam', mostly with his "Big Moog" modular system, then building upon it with overdubs of other sounds and musical parts. He would use many instruments; Arp, Moog and EMS synths among others, but here just a selection of AJH Synth eurorack modules are used, and a shorter, simpler piece of music, with just a couple of overdubbed parts.

INTRO SOUNDS: This patch used the LADDER FILTER and the FIXED FILTER BANK 914 to process pink noise independently, but both pass through the filter bank by way of its CV-controlled mixing functionality. Multiple envelopes cause the sound to evolve as it crossfades between the output of the ladder filter, and then the filter bank's two groups of frequencies (left and right) one after the other. This creates an effect reminiscent of a long, unnatural reverb tail.

SEQUENCER PART: This patch also makes use of the FIXED FILTER BANK 914's two groups of frequencies, both independently and combined, divided between two VCAs in a stereo configuration. This, later combined with the ENTROPIC DOOM, is modulated by synced, random voltages from the TAP TEMPO VC-LFO, and step probability from the CHANCE DELAY, so that the brighter, more percussive steps are random in tone and occurrence.

SOUND EFFECTS: This was inspired by the sound of morse code and old analogue radio communication signals. For that it uses the LUNAR MODULE to add 2 types of noise and some low fidelity to the sound of an incoming VCO responsible for the 'beep' tone. The DUAL RVG and TAP TEMPO VC-LFO create random 'beep' lengths prior to entering the Lunar Module.

VOCAL/CHOIR: This is three VCO's modulated separately and passed through the FIXED FILTER BANK 914. See our guide to using the filter bank for these kinds of sounds here: [posted here]

BASS: This is two VCOs and white noise from the GLIDE + NOISE module going into the RING SM, where a -1 sub octave is generated and added to the mix. It uses the TRANSISTOR LADDER FILTER for that famous Moog/Minimoog warm fatness. Some of the low frequencies had to be scooped off in post as web video compression simply wouldn't cope with it! This floor-shaker of a combo never disappoints. The Ring SM's unique sub-bases (shaped square waves) add almost bottomless depth to an already legendary fat filter and very rich, vintage-voiced oscillators.

LEAD/SOLO: My struggling attempt to mimic just a little of Klaus Schulze's lead style... Sorry Klaus! This uses 3 VCOs and white noise going into the TRIPLE CROSS, where an LFO is modulating the mix of 2 VCOs (pitched differently), and the output sent to the GEMINI 2412 dual SEM-based filter, which is used in a stereo configuration to separate VCAs. An LFO modulates its two VCFs in opposition to each other, creating a stereo panning effect.

Video by @DreamsOfWires

The AJH SYNTH Eurorack modular range consists of high-end modules, all hand-made in the UK, most of which are based on classic, vintage designs, authentically recreating the circuitry of much sought-after analogue instruments and technologies of the past, whilst greatly expanding them, and bringing them to modern Eurorack levels of convenience, limitless flexibility, and reliability. Official website page: https://ajhsynth.com"

In-The Box Modular - Minimal System Performance - Sounds/Sequencing/Mixing/FX/ recording in 1 case

video upload by AJH Synth Official

"An example of a simple but complete Eurorack system in 1 case - 2 voices, sequencing, mixing, FX and recording. A sequencer-driven, ultra-minimal performance.
This particular modular setup features almost a complete AJH Synth MiniMod voice (except the Glide + Noise module), plus the Ring SM (for sub-bases, mixing or ring mod), Chance Delay (for convenient manual randomness and gate delay/conversion), Tap Tempo VC-LFO (regular and random synced modulation), Sonic XV Diode Ladder Filter (in addition to the Minimoog-based Transistor Ladder Filter), and an extra VCA to facilitate a second voice.
With modular there are almost infinite possibilities to create a complete system within the restrictions of a single Eurorack case, and not necessarily with a huge amount of HP. Such a system would be great for gigging, or just reducing clutter, and there's only one mains plug!

Video by @DreamsOfWires"

Minimod 4-Voice Performance/Patch (Eurorack Modular Analogue System)

video upload by DreamsOfWires

"I created a patch on the AJH Synth RadioPhonic at Machina Bristronica 2024, which I quite liked, so I recreated it using my own modules, with a couple of minor changes. It consists of 4 voices, mixed, effected and recorded directly into the modular - a nice, tidy solution for simple performances or jotting down ideas.

I'll probably be uploading some videos of gear I'm having to sell off soon, so keep an eye on the channel, and maybe some short vids focussed on my favourite individual gear/gadegets/toys if anyone's interested. Not all Eurorack modular, some regular synths and other stuff.

Find my music at: https://tomorrowthecure.bandcamp.com"

SynthfestUK 24 Synth Coverage

video uploads by sonicstate

Update: moving this post up once as new videos have been added. Bookmark this post for updates.

Use the player controls to skip around.

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.
And yes, it's out there in the world now!

3. SynthfestUK 24: Roland Unveils the Juno-D Series with Zen-Core Sound

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.
Prices range approximately from £949 to £1199.

CLICK FOR MORE »

AJH Synth @ SYNTHFEST UK, Sheffield 5th October - See, Try, Hear and Discuss our Modules

video upload by AJH Synth Official

"AJH Synth will be at SYNTHFEST UK at The Octagon, Sheffield on the 5th of October. Come see, try, hear and discuss our modules. Also some of our complete systems will be there, including the MiniMod Keyz and The RadioPhonic - our limited edition system commissioned by Hans Zimmer.

Video by @DreamsOfWires"

RadioPhonic Real-time Performance, All-analogue sounds, all AJH Synth Eurorack modules

video upload by AJH Synth Official

"A RadioPhonic Real-time Performance, All-analogue sounds, all AJH Synth Eurorack modules. Inspired by the electronica of the 1970's and comprising 3 voices: A 3-VCO drone/chord using the Gemini 2412 as 2 separate filters being cross-modulated. A single VCO sequence, using the Ring SM to add a sub-octave/sub bass to the sawtooth wave of the oscillator. A voice-like sound, using one, then two oscillators into the Transistor Ladder Filter (VCO and VCF both based on the original R.A Moog version of the Minimoog). A choir-like sound created by running 2 VCO sawtooths into the Wave Swarm and then the Fixed Filter Bank 914 (based on the original Moog modular). Then, both the previous 2 sounds combined in the Next Phase 12-stage analogue phaser, swept by its own internal LFO. Two additional sound effects created by using the random voltage mode of the Tap Tempo VC-LFO to modulate the self-oscillating Sonic XV diode filter, it's frequency also being affected by the Contour Generators to create descending pitches. Finally, a DH-ADSR envelope generator controlling the Entropic Doom. Both envelope modules are manually triggered.

The RadioPhonic is a Eurorack modular synth commissioned by Hans Zimmer, recreations of which are now available to pre-order at https://ajhsynth.com/Radiophonic.html.

The RadioPhonic features 48 AJH Synth modules, including 8 envelopes, 7 VCOs, 6 LFOs, 6 VCFs, up to 7 VCAs, random voltage generators, random gates, phaser, fixed filter bank, dedicated noise oscillator, wave-folder, wave multipliers, audio and CV mixers, ring modulators, sub-octave generator, glide/slew, octave/semitone switching, multiples... and in a beautiful hardwood, well-powered Eurorack case. All modules are also available separately, or as part of pre-assembled, ready to play systems.

Video by @DreamsOfWires"

The RadioPhonic: Sound Examples - Hans Zimmer's Eurorack system by AJH Synth now available.

video upload by AJH Synth Official

"Some sounds/patch examples created with The RadioPhonic - a synth commissioned by Hans Zimmer, recreations of which are now available to pre-order at https://ajhsynth.com/Radiophonic.html.

The RadioPhonic features 48 AJH Synth modules, including 8 envelopes, 7 VCOs, 6 LFOs, 6 VCFs, up to 7 VCAs, random voltage generators, random gates, phaser, fixed filter bank, dedicated noise oscillator, wave-folder, wave multipliers, audio and CV mixers, ring modulators, sub-octave generator, glide/slew, octave/semitone switching, multiples... and in a beautiful hardwood, well-powered Eurorack case.

The examples include: Some all-analogue Techno at 150bpm. A 6-oscillator stereo patch and various other patching. BBC Radiophonic Workshop (think early Doctor Who) inspired sounds using audio rate VCO modulation and ring mod with the Ring SM's ring modulator. The Gemini 2412 SEM-based dual multimode filter used in stereo. Vocal/human voice/choir sounds using the Transistor Ladder, Fixed Filter Bank, Sonic XV diode VCF and wave folder. Cross-fading and stereo panning with the Triple Cross module. Randomness from the Dual RVG, Chance Delay and Tap Tempo VC-LFO. Phaser sounds with the Next Phase, and finally a short 'Berlin School' performance inspired by Tangerine Dream, Klaus Schulze and Vangelis (loosely the Blade Runner CS-80 lead)

Index:
00:00 Introduction
01:07 150bpm Techno
02:23 6-VCO Stereo Voice
03:14 4-Voice Cross-fading & Panning
04:50 Next Phase stereo pad
06:56 Audio-rate and Ring Modulation
08:43 Vocal & Choir-like sounds
10:58 Inspired by TD, Schulze, Vangelis

Video by @DreamsOfWires"

The RadioPhonic - Drone Part 2: 'Rhythmic' (4-Analogue Voices, Self-Patched, Melodic)

video upload by AJH Synth Official

"Another in a series of example videos featuring The RadioPhonic - a synth commissioned by Hans Zimmer, recreations of which are now available to pre-order at https://ajhsynth.com/Radiophonic.html.

This is Part 2 to the earlier Cinematic Drone video. It is based on the same patch, but modified to add a rhythmic element, using the Chance Delay module for some random behaviour / probability. It is also completely self-patch (in the box), no sequencer or controllers are used.

The RadioPhonic features 48 AJH Synth modules, including 8 envelopes, 7 VCOs, 6 LFOs, 6 VCFs, up to 7 VCAs, random voltage generators, random gates, phaser, fixed filter bank, dedicated noise oscillator, wave-folder, wave multipliers, audio and CV mixers, ring modulators, sub-octave generator, glide/slew, octave/semitone switching, multiples... and in a beautiful hardwood, well-powered Eurorack case.

Video by @DreamsOfWires

The AJH SYNTH Eurorack modular range consists of high-end modules, all hand-made in the UK, most of which are based on classic, vintage designs, authentically recreating the circuitry of much sought-after analogue instruments and technologies of the past, whilst greatly expanding them, and bringing them to modern Eurorack levels of convenience, limitless flexibility, and reliability.
Official website page: https://ajhsynth.com"