BAF2024 - Wavesequencer Hyperion - Impressive Modular Software Synth

video upload by sonicstate

"At Buchla & Friends 2024, Sonic State had the opportunity to chat to Paul from Wavesequencer about the Hyperion modular synth. The Hyperion is a VST-3 and AU plugin(also standalone) that is optimized for multiprocessing, allowing for up to 32 voices and 16 layers. Each layer acts as an individual modular patch with unlimited nodes, and there is also an arpeggiator and MPE mode for added versatility. The synth offers a wide range of synthesis types and comes with over 150 node types for patch design. It can be used for both complex and simple sounds, with the capability to handle sample playback and act as an effects processor as well. With its robust features and affordable price tag of $129, the Hyperion offers immense value and has been flying under the radar until now.

For more information about the Hyperion synth and to check out demo videos, visit Wavesequencer on Tracktion Market place.

There's also Theia, a patch player product that provides access to Hyperion's patches at half the price. Theia is a curated set of patches with more musical presets. For keyboard players, while still offering the flexibility to edit levels, arpeggiation settings, and more. To learn more about Theia, visit the Traction marketplace.

Overall, the Hyperion synth impressed with its powerful capabilities, clean UI design, and the dedication of its one-man developer. As a synthesizer, effects processor, and patch player, the Hyperion offers a range of possibilities for both keyboard players and those interested in generative ambient patch generation. With wavesequencer.com as a resource for demo videos, users can get a better sense of the synth's potential.

https://www.tracktion.com/products/hy..."

Sequenced Waveshape

video upload by Todd Barton

"Checkout more https://www.patreon.com/synthtodd"

BUCHLA and Friends 2024: Erica Synths Perkons Sounds Only

video upload by sonicstate

"The Erica Synths Perkons HD-01 is Erica Synths' Drum machine - MATTHS reviewed it for SonicLAB when it came out. [posted here]

At the Buchla & Friends event just up the road from NAMM, Jim Heywood from @EarmonkeyMusic spent some time with it to get us a sounds only video.

Erica Synths Perkons HD-01 is available again in March priced at €1700 and can be pre-ordered directly from Erica Synths"

4MS New Modules - Secrets! - #namm2024

video upload by True Cuckoo

"4MS has some great new modules. One which is not formally announced, but since it accidentally leaked, they're talking about it. It's very interesting!"

BAF 2024: Soma - Enner

video upload by sonicstate

"At Buchla And Friends 2024, Sonic State caught up with Kevin at the Soma booth to find out more about the Enner synthesizer, which, due to increasing popularity, Soma have been ramping up production. The synth boasts a psychedelic aesthetic and excels at generating noisescapes while also offering the flexibility for melodic performances via its (we think copper) touch pads.

Enna is slightly reminiscent of the Lyra synthesizer, but with a pulse output section and a built-in piezo microphone, activated by a large pad. The Enner has a delay line with feedback and time controls for the left and right lines, and Kevin demonstrated the Bizarre Control which adds pseudo random modulation to the delay line leading to some screamy noise textures. The touchplates respond to touch, and Kevin even demonstrated the use of a metal scouring pad to create some crunchy tones. Enner can also be used as an external effects processor, to add some strange to your incoming signal.

Enner Price: 799 USD"

BAF 2024: EarthQuaker Devices - Wave Transformer

video upload by sonicstate

"At BAF 2024 Sonic State had the opportunity to speak with Karl from EarthquakerDevices about their latest release, The Wave Transformer oscillator. This complex single oscillator is fully analog and features a unique wave shaping circuit called Transform. Unlike traditional wave folders, Transform breaks the waveform apart, applies voltage math, and reassembles it on the output, resulting in an asymmetric crumpled waveform with added harmonics. The Wave Transformer offers seven different outputs and nine inputs, providing plenty of versatility for modulation and sound design.

The Wave Transformer also offers both hard and soft sync options, each providing their own sonic flavours, and by utilizing bipolar signals, users can achieve different sync sounds and even create filtering effects.

The Wave Transformer is available now. Price 199 USD"

"The Wave Transformer is an analog, vintage-voiced, voltage-controlled oscillator with over 8 octaves of accurate pitch tracking. It has 7 simultaneous wave outputs, including a unique Complex output.

The Transform control morphs from a basic waveform through many strange iterations into a complex, gnarled mass of audio mutations at the Complex output. You can yield countless variations on these permutations by combining this novel circuit with Hard Sync, Soft Sync, Linear FM and Exponential FM. Additionally, you can mute the source waveform to use the circuit as a harmonic gate/VCA, rendering The Wave Transformer a voice unto itself. If that is not enough, there is a Shape Insert that allows you to transform external oscillations and modular-level audio sources."

BAF 2024: AMMT - Clutch High Hat Module

video upload by sonicstate

"At NAMM 2024, Sonic State spoke with Alex from AMMT, a new company that is an offshoot of WMD. AMMT showcased their new hi-hat module called Clutch, which is a dual sample player designed to create high-quality hi-hat sounds. The module includes various features such as blend knobs, surface control, release, pitch, balance, and filters. It also offers CV capabilities for added modulation possibilities.

The Clutch hi-hat module is expected to be released in the next couple of months with a price around $399."

The Vibe of Buchla & Friends - #namm2024 side quest

video upload by True Cuckoo

"Alongside NAMM, Buchla shot an event for the smaller manufacturers and developers down town L.A. Buchla & Friends. For the people. I love it."

BAF 2024: Mystic Circuits - Idum - Ana 2

video upload by sonicstate

"At Buchla And Friends 2024, Eli from Mystic Circuits showed us some of their new modules. They announced that Idum, a gate effect proccesor which had been out of stock for a long time, is back and redesigned. Idum now has a new firmware update that adds requested features such as the ability to put on more than one mode at once. They also demonstrated improvements to the behavior of the looper, allowing for more flexibility in capturing inputs. Eli then revealed their upcoming module, Ana 2. This module is an analog logic module that offers various combinations of signals for ring mod-type effects. The new version of Ana now includes LED indicators, a multiply input with a bipolar VCA on both inputs, and additional output options such as the cut output and swap output.

Idum Price: 295 USD
Ana 2 Price: TBC

https://www.mysticcircuits.com/"

BAF 2024: Black Corporation - Jupiter 8 Desktop

video upload by sonicstate

"At Buchla and Friends 2024 we hooked up with Roman Filippov of Black Corporation who has produced a limited edition charity version of his synthesizer, based on the Jupiter-8, with all proceeds going to non-military charities in Ukraine. Filippov also announced his collaboration with Buchla, bringing back vintage modules that were released in the early to mid-70s. These modules have been recreated using modern technology, while still maintaining the core sound of the original Buchla models. They also include new features such as USB and MIDI out, polyphonic aftertouch, and extended tracking capabilities. The Buchla modules are now available for purchase through the Buchla website and the official sourceofuncertainty.com web store.

Jupiter 8 Desktop Price: 4,299 USD

https://black-corporation.com/"

See the Source of Uncertainty announcement post here.

BAF 2024: New Systems Instruments - New Modules

video upload by sonicstate

"At Buchla and Friends 2024, Sonic State caught up with Evan from New Systems Instruments to discuss their latest modular offerings. Evan showcased three main modules: the Triphase Oscillator, the Harmonic Shift Oscillator, and the Inertia function generator.

The Triphase Oscillator offers three phases of a sawtooth oscillator with a bipolar mixer, allowing for extensive control and the creation of unique super saw sounds. On the other hand, the Harmonic Shift Oscillator provides control over level and stride which controls the spacing between harmonics, enabling users to create a wide range of sounds with non-integer spacing between harmonics. This FM-inspired oscillator introduces a unique twist by omitting negative frequencies typically associated with inharmonic FM. The Inertia function generator, with its rise and fall momentum controls, allows users to shape snappy envelopes, add peaks, and even function as an LFO at extreme settings. Additionally, it can serve as a versatile filter, producing squelchy filter sounds.

All of these modules are currently available on the New Systems Instruments website and selected stores. The Triphase Oscillator is priced at $385, the Harmonic Shift Oscillator at $365, and the Inertia function generator at around $345.

https://nsinstruments.com/"

BAF 2024: Catalyst Audio - MIG Modules

video upload by sonicstate

"At Buchla and Friends 2024, Sonic State had the opportunity to speak with David from Catalyst Audio about their latest release, the MIG series vacuum tube modules. This series includes a VCO, mixer, VCF, VCA, and a noise source, all designed around new old stock tubes from Soviet fighter jets in the 80s. David explained that the collaboration between Buchla and Friends and ElectroSurf led to the development of these modules, with ElectroSurf handling the tube circuits and David working on the layout and production. The MIG series modules feature unique waveform shaping capabilities due to the use of two tubes, allowing for audio rate switching and balance adjustments. The VCO, mixer, filter, and VCA all offer distinct tonal changes and features that can be overdriven for added versatility. The noise module provides a wide range of sound possibilities, from pitched variations to white noise textures. Currently, they have about 1,500 tubes in stock, making these modules a limited edition item. However, the tubes are perfect for Eurorack systems as they consume low power, making them compatible with standard power supplies. The final price is yet to be determined, but it is expected to be around $400.

https://www.catalystaudio.com/"

BAF 2024: Dogbotic Labs - Synth Building Workshops

video upload by sonicstate

"At Buchla and Friends 2024, Sonic State had the opportunity to chat with Sean from Dogbotic Labs who offer online workshops for electronics, where participants receive a kit of materials and learn how to build their own circuitry over 10 weeks on Zoom. The workshops have attracted participants from all over the world, fostering a sense of community and collaborative learning. Sean, who is a composer and video artist performing under the name Isorhythmics, emphasizes the importance of experimentation and creativity in electronics, highlighting that it's not necessary to fully understand how things work as long as they can produce cool results.

One of the main workshops offered by Dogbotic Labs is the *DIY Synths* workshop, which teaches participants how to build their own basic synthesizer from scratch. Another popular workshop focuses on building a drum machine with a patchable interface. While the designs may seem complex, Sean encourages participants to customize their creations according to their own artistic visions.

Unfortunately, the kits are currently only available for purchase as part of the workshops, but Dogbotic Labs is planning to start selling the kits separately in the future. https://dogbotic.com/"

BAF 2024: Noise Engineering - Alia Series Modules

video upload by sonicstate

"We Met Marcus from Noise Engineering at Buchla And Friends 2024 and he gave us an overview of their new products, including the Alia series of oscillators. The Alia series features their four classic oscillators - Basimilus Iteritas, Manis Iteritas, Cursus Iteritas, and Ataraxic Iteritas - all redesigned with the ability to swap firmwares. This allows users to try any of the six available firmwares and easily switch between them on their website. Marcus also demonstrated the Debel Iteritas and Incus Iteritas modules, offering FM and percussive-oriented sounds respectively.

In addition to the Alia series, Noise Engineering also presented two prototype modules. The first is Pax Digitalis, a quantized random source with four channels, allowing users to create randomized sequences with adjustable deviation and direction, as well as the ability to loop and change scale. The second prototype is Sinc Seq, an arpeggiator that provides the flexibility to build custom arpeggios, save them, and cycle through them with triggers. Release dates and prices for these prototypes are yet to be announced

Alia Modules Price: 389 USD

https://noiseengineering.us/"

BAF 2024: MEMS And Associates - Buchla Modules

video upload by sonicstate

"At NAMM 2024, Sonic State had the opportunity to speak with Mark of MEMS and Associates, a research group that specializes in reverse engineering Buchla synthesizers found in universities across the United States. Mark explains that they have gone coast-to-coast, collecting rare Buchlas and have successfully replicated the David Tudor mixer from Wesleyan University. They also showcase their 132 waveform synthesizer, a 1965 module that offers complex waveforms. Mark shares that they have gained access to these universities simply by asking, and have formed collaborations to continue their work. He also reveals that these remade Buchla modules will soon be available for purchase through the licensed partnership with Analog Haven and Buchla as they aim to democratize access to these instruments.

In addition to the impressive remakes, MEMS and Associates also exhibited the rare 242 Programmable Pulser module, which allows users to program three different rhythmic pulses through a patch matrix. MEMS and Associates' future plans include hosting workshops for students to build their own modules and complete their university systems. This approach not only provides a more hands-on experience but also creates service records for these modules, as Mark mentions the lack of schematics and the need to trace circuits by hand. Mark told us the aim is to preserve and provide accessibility to these historically significant Buchla synthesizers."

See the M.E.M.S label below for more.

BAF 2024: Elektron - e25 Remix Editions - Rytm MK II

video upload by sonicstate

"At Buchla And Friends 2024, Sonic State caught up with Enrique Martinez at the Elektron booth to discuss their latest products. We got a look at their limited edition e25 series, which included the Digitakt, Digitone, and Syntakt. These instruments feature a shiny stainless steel finish that are surprisingly resistant to fingerprints. Additionally, Elektron displayed the Analog Heat Plus FX, the analog and digital effects processing unit and The Analog Rytm MKII which has new added machines and a Euclidean mode for creating intricate rhythmic patterns.

Ricky told us that the limited edition products are slightly more expensive but come with additional features and excitingly, in one box of each of the range there is a unique silver function button, which if you find it, Elektron has a secret very special prize for you!

Syntakt e25 Remix Edition Price: 1,149 USD
Digitakt e25 Remix Edition Price: 999 USD
Digitone e25 Remix Edition Price: 999 USD
Analog Heat Plus FX Price: 999 USD
Analog Rytm MK II Price: 1,799 USD"

BAF 2024: Null Modular - Modular Cases - Synth Dusters

video upload by sonicstate

"At Buchla And Friends we met with Megan from Null Modular who introduced some of their new products. The first is their modular synth cases, available in 40 HP and 84 HP sizes. These cases are flat packable and made from eco-friendly materials that are 100% recyclable. In addition, Null Modular is also showcasing their 3D printed stands, made from a plant-based material that is biodegradable.

But perhaps the most unique product from Null Modular is their synth dusters. These soft brushes come in different characters, such as spiky heads, noodle hats, and cat ears, allowing users to personalize their dusters. Not only do they serve as a stylish accessory, but they are also great for dusting off modules. The brushes are priced at $20, while the 3D Printed stands cost $25, with a locking version available for added security during transportation.

https://nullmodular.bigcartel.com/"

BAF 2024: Sleepy Circuits - Mezzz

video upload by sonicstate

"At Buchla And Friends, Sonic State had the opportunity to interview Ron from Sleepy Circuits, the makers of the Hypno generative video module. Ron showed us their latest device called Mezzz, a video synthesis system that combines a controller and app combo. Mezzz is a tiny Bluetooth MIDI controller that can also work with USB, allowing users to control over 2,000 parameters. With a gyroscope feature, users can manipulate visuals by simply rotating the controller, making it ideal for audio-reactive performances. Ron demonstrated how he could create complex visuals using mathematical functions and feedback effects, resulting in some mesmerizing patterns. The Mezzz controller is available now for $360 on the Sleepy Circuit's website and is compatible with iPhones, iPads, and desktop Macs."

See the announcement post here.

BAF 2024: Days Of Yore - The Tower Spring Reverb

video upload by sonicstate

"At the Buchla and Friends event in downtown LA, Kassia from Days of Yore showcased their latest creation - The Tower a 42-inch spring reverb that doubles as a beautiful piece of furniture. The reverb unit features three springs and offers a range of analog effects including gate, vibrato, feedback, send-return, mixer settings, overdrive, input volume, pickup intensity, and a compressor. The gate feature helps eliminate unwanted sounds and control the length of the reverb. The hand-built spring reverb is priced at $3,600, with production set to begin in March.

Kassia also presented the Matrix Mixer, a unique design with five inputs and outputs that allows for creative modulation and the creation of unexpected sounds. The matrix mixer combines channels to generate resonance, feedback loops, and endless soundscapes. Its upright design was chosen to save space in the studio, as the mixer is meant to complement traditional mixers rather than replace them. The Matrix Mixer will be available in April for $2,600.

https://www.daysofyoreaudio.com/"

BAF 2024 - Prism Circuits - Quasar System

video upload by sonicstate

"At Buchla And Friends 2024, we met up with Nick from Prism Circuits who showed us their new Serge-based Quasar modular system. The system is based on the 4U standard, making it larger than Eurorack and it draws inspiration from the early electronic music circuits created by composer Serge Tcherepnin in the 1970s. The goal was to create an affordable modular synthesizer that could be customized based on individual preferences.

The Quasar system is designed for improvisation and live performances, and features a unique hieroglyphic language developed by Serge, with symbols representing different functions and outputs. Nick explained one advantage of the Prism Circuits system over Eurorack is its standardized grid format, making it convenient to navigate and locate modules quickly.

Prism Circuit's modules are handmade in the United States, using through-hole components and ensuring each instrument is crafted with care and longevity in mind, and typically cost around $2,500 per panel, but prices may vary depending on the components included."