Elektor Formant - The 70s DIY Synthesizer

video upload by Alex Ball

"A look at an Elektor Formant DIY synth built by Bruce Newman in the late 70s.

Big thank you to Bruce and Chris ‪@Cellar92Sessions‬ . Head to their channel to watch my synth live performance.

0:00 Intro Jam
1:20 What was the Elektor Formant?
3:38 Demo 1: Elektorial Spank
5:02 Interview with Bruce part 1
7:33 Demo 2: Key-Bored
8:44 Interview with Bruce part 2
10:49 Summary and Formant Reissue
11:46 Patron Outro Jam

With thanks to my Patrons
www.patreon.com/AlexBallMusic"

See the Elektor label below for additional posts.

From Magazines to MASSIVE MODULAR // Erica Synths Elektor Formant

video upload by Starsky Carr

"The legendary Elektor Formant DIY modular synth from the 1970s is back — and this time it’s beautifully recreated by Erica Synths. In this in-depth demo and review, I explore the history of the original magazine-built Formant, the DIY ethos behind it, and how this modern recreation captures that vintage analogue modular magic.

Originally released as a self-build project through Elektor magazine, the Formant required builders to etch their own PCBs, source components, and assemble modules like the VCO, VCF, envelopes and more. It was true synth-nerd dedication. Now, Erica Synths has made that iconic system accessible again — without the UV PCB lab in your garage.

In this video:

🎛 Overview of the Erica Synths Formant system
📖 The history of the original 1970s Elektor DIY kit
🔊 Sound demos: VCOs, filter tones, modulation & patching
🎚 Performance insights (including Synth East)
🤔 Is this the ultimate vintage modular revival?"

ELEKTOR FORMANT ANALOG MODULAR SYNTHESIZER

video upload by FunkTechnikDirk

Antonus Step Brother with Elektor Formant by Erica Synths improvisation

video upload by Antonus

"Testing the finished Elektor Formant DIY KIT from Erica Synths.
Improvising using the Antonus Step Brother for play the Formant. Very special and particular sound and behaviour in the Formant, but the Step Brother connects in a very powerful way. I love how also they match in dimensions, Step Brother fits perfect on bottom of the Formant. Very fun and powerful combo!"

Formant: pro custom-built by JVR

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this Vemia listing

Click the auction link on top when you get there for additional listings.

"This is a custom built synth made for me by Jos Van Ras who is an ex-Phillips engineer in the Netherlands who builds Elektor modules and cases.

The synth consists of the following modules: 3 x VCO - very powerful VCOs with a Moog vibe and unlike most Elektors, these have Sync inputs and the sync sound is really powerful. 3 x VCF - 3 different VCFs, two based on the original Elektor designs (a 12dB multiode filter, and another filter switchable between 24/18/12/6 dB/octave with LP and HP outputs) and a third based on the Steiner Parker filter which is really nice sounding. 1 x triple LFO - 3 simple LFOs without voltage control but with a variety of waveshapes. 1 x NOISE / RANDOM VOLTAGE 4 x ADSR 2 x VCA 2 x MIXER 1 x quadruple MULTIPLES 1 x RING MOD 1 x S&H / Inverter 1 x COM which is an output module with a 3 band EQ which is surprisingly useful 1 x MIDI to CV converter

This synth offers tremendous bang for the buck, I think it gives quite a Moog feeling in sound. It contains everything you need for a great variety of sounds but you can always patch it with Eurorack or other modular gear. I will post some sound examples as there aren't many good demos online.

The negatives are that the cabinet is just functional MDF, no fancy timber, and the MIDI interface is very basic. I usually use a Kenton for more complex MIDI control."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Berceuse

video upload by Grégoire Blanc

"One year after the release of “Daydreaming ~ 楽想”, I’m excited to share this little electronic lullaby, in the same style. I hope it will help you find sleep in these difficult times ✨🌙

The track is also available on all streaming platforms."

Elektor Formant Modular and Soma Lyra-8.

Erica Synths Introduces New Elektor Formant DIY Modular Synth

sound demo video upload by Erica Synths

"Since Erica Synths originated as a company that originally developed DIY kits for Eurorack modular synthesizers, we want to keep the spirit of DIY synths alive and besides our mki x es.EDU DIY series, we went full in, and set out to develop a contemporary, DIY-friendly and extended version of the Elektor Formant synthesizer, originally published as a DIY kit in Elektor Magazine late 70-ties. In collaboration with Harald Antes of haraldswerk.de we developed a modular system based on Elektor Formant designs and added several modules to take its functionality to next level

Timeline:
00:02 - Patch 1
00:59 - Patch 2
02:08 - Patch 3
02:58 - Patch 4
03:50 - Patch 5"

Also see: A 100% Modern Remake Of The 1970's DIY Formant Synthesizer By Erica Synths? Lets Solder it!

CLICK FOR MORE »

A 100% Modern Remake Of The 1970's DIY Formant Synthesizer By Erica Synths? Lets Solder it!

video upload by LOOK MUM NO COMPUTER

"This week we chat about ‪@EricaSynths‬ FORMANT Recreation!
More info follow Erica Synths, they are making a run of these in full kit form. so keep up to date!

A video more on the Solderthon over on the ‪@THISMUSEUMISNOTOBSOLETE‬ here :"

Erica Synths 24hr Build Challenge - No Sleep, All Synth!

video upload by LOOK MUM NO COMPUTER

"Lets look at the Formant Recreation by ‪@EricaSynths‬ built in 24 hours!"

new, a sponge based audio oscillator

video upload by RS-Elc

"Sponge material shows an extremely large dielectric constant that changes with the amount of compression. It can be made into a wide range variable capacitor when clamped between two metal plates. Capacitors in the range of 100nF can be made with only a few cm of (cellulose based) sponge material.

This movie shows a sponge-based oscillator and a sponge-based lowpass filter as an introduction into 'Spongetronics'. Comes with oscilloscope waveforms and resulting sounds. More info on Elektor Labs."

Eurorack, Manage your Envelope

video upload by LARIX ELEKTRO

"With the LARIX ELEKTOR TIME module, you have all you need to control envelopes, for more expressivity: Gate duration, retrig, etc.

Here an example of use.

Module is available here:

https://www.larix-elektro.com/"

WHAT'S THAT THING ?
In fact, it's simple: it convert a trigger signal (hm, any signals) into a gate signal with CV controle of the time.

With its many inputs and outputs, it's the perfect companion to your favorite ADSR envelope.

It's also a clock generator, a rampe generator, and even a clock divider with the Shift-R extension.

The GATE output is augmented by 2 other outputs: START and END, which generate (as their name suggests) a trig at the beginning of the gate and one at the end.

The END allows this module to be used as a Trig delay, or to trigger another envelope at the end of a note, for example.

The START's output trig is generated each time a trig is received as input, even if the GATE is still active as output. Perfect for retriggering an envelope (if the corresponding entry exists on your module, of course...).

The GATE can be forced to zero by an RST input. (Think of HiHat Open and Close for example)
The input trig and RST each have a push button.

Finally, a switch allows the module to be transformed into a clock generator.

The input triggers the clock, and the RST stops it.

An additional output, not so common for this type of module, provides a ramp for the duration of the GATE.

This gives you access to a voltage that increases throughout the duration of the GATE.
Useful as is, or to send to a waveshaper for example.

The RITOURNELLE Shift-R, adds 8 trigger outputs.

The Rampe value is converted into an 8-bit word.

This allows for clock-type signals at smaller divisions than the duration of the GATE (or the clock in LOOP mode)

A kind of clock divider.

Pro-built Formant Pro (MIDI-CV)

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this VEMIA listing

Click the auction link on top when you get there for additional listings.

VEMIA is Peter Forrest's auction house. He is the author of The A-Z of Analogue Synthesizer Books.

"This is a professionally built Formant Pro latest version. It has a Midi CV keyboard that plays really well. It is in superb visual condition. There may be the odd crackle or contact problem in a knob or jack but it is in principle fully working. the reverb need to be attached to a reverb tank. its a massive system with a sound to match. I had a few homemade models as well. this is miles apart in terms of quality."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Analog audio FX: Pipeline Distortion, build

video upload by RS-Elc

"Demonstrating a simple circuit that provides flexible and dynamic signal distortion as a sound effect for synthesizers and gitars. Basics explained in my movie : Pipeline distortion, basics. Here the build version is shown with sound examples. Note that for the sound examples the input is just a basic sinewave, all harmonics and modulation come from the distortion effect. (no other effects are used).

More details and build info can be found on Elektor Labs:
Basics (prototype):
https://www.elektormagazine.com/labs/...
Build: (PCB design):
https://www.elektormagazine.com/labs/...

See all my projects on Elektor Labs:
https://www.elektormagazine.com/labs/...
And on my personal website: www.RS-elc.nl"

Elektor Surf Synthesizer - Ocean Sound DIY Synth Designed by John S. Simonton Jr (1972)

video upload by Elektor TV

"Dive into the world of DIY electronics with our detailed build guide for the Elektor Surf Synthesizer Kit! In this video, we unbox, assemble, and test this amazing kit that mimics the soothing sounds of the ocean. Whether you're a seasoned builder or a curious newbie, this video will provide you with step-by-step instructions, from soldering to testing.

🌊 What’s Inside:

Unboxing: First look at all the components and the packaging.
Schematic Guide: Detailed breakdown of the schematic to ensure a smooth assembly.
Assembly: Step-by-step soldering and assembly instructions.
Testing: Hear the serene ocean waves we create with the assembled kit!
🛠️ Kit Features:

Includes all necessary components and a wooden stand.
Detailed schematic for easy follow-along building.

🎁 Special Offer:

Available for a limited time at a special price on the Elektor store. Check out the link below to get your kit while supplies last!

🔗 Buy the Kit: https://www.elektor.com/products/elek...
🔗 Article Surf Synthesizer https://www.elektormagazine.com/magaz..."

1977 Elektor Formant synthesizer Review Sound

video upload by Synths Gallery

Elektor Formant

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this listing

"Vend Synthé analogique Formant de Elektor. Fabrication personnelle soignée et récente (2023). 12 modules ( 3 VCOs, 1 filtre 12dB, 1 filtre 24dB, 1 filtre résonnant, 2 ADSRs, 1 VCA, 1 LFO, 1 NOISE, 1 COM). Interface MIDI Doepfer MCV4 intégrée. En état de marche et réglé. Visible à Rouen. Livraison en mains propre possible selon distance."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Elektor ok-drumbox M 253

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this listing

This appears to be the first one featured on the site.

Pics of the inside below.

"Elektor Drumbox M-253

The device is basically functional, i.e. the instruments sound and different rhythms with variations can be set.

However, a humming noise can be heard, which gets louder with the volume control knob (check the power supply).

for sale to hobbyists and connoisseurs"

CLICK FOR MORE »

OXI One | SYNTHRX II by Erica Synths ~ Sound Demo ~ (no talking)

video upload by Elektortek

"Wauw! This was a joyful experience testing out my OXI One sequencer with Erica Synths' SYNTRX II. Short sound demo, so many options for manipulating the beautiful sequence that rolled out of my head, before I started to record.

End part is a bit more experimental pushing the sounds from noisy and distorted to more quiet and airy.Next step add some drums with the Polyend Tracker 2!

Enjoy!

OXI One sequencer syncing Erica Synths Synthrx2 via midi."

Sequenced Formants

video upload by Memetune Studio

"Did you know someone is still making Formant synthesiser modules? Nor did I!

I just got the sequencer and its great - I've always wanted one for my system, but didn't want to put something 'inauthentic' in the cab. Well I finally found someone who is making the real thing - Jos Van Ras http://www.josvanras.com/ [P.S. See the JVS label for more].

Its quite an interesting module - for a start it is circular - and I don't have any other circular sequencers. Secondly it has 10 steps which is always a good thing, as long as you can set it to less if you want - and this one has switches to set it to 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 8. I wish it could do 7 and 9 as well - maybe I can mod it for that at some point. And you can skip steps, slew, and change the gate outputs in various ways. Pretty cool! I might get a second one so I can do polyrhythmic stuff one day

Here is a little sketch I made with it..."

1980s DIY Elektor Chorosynth

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this listing

"Ein Elektor Chorosynth.
Es ist dem Stylophone ähnlich, nur wurde hier eine Tastatur ergänzt.

Alle Funktionen sind soweit gegeben, der Klang ist ähnlich einer Orgel.

Die untere Taste hat keine Funktion (Kabel ab), ein paar Tasten haben leichte KontaktProbleme

die Bauanleitung findet man online.

Mit Stromkabel und Adapterkabel von DIN auf Klinke."

Googlish:

"An Elektor Chorosynth.
It is similar to the Stylophone, only a keyboard has been added here.

All functions are present, the sound is similar to an organ.

The bottom button has no function (cable disconnected), a few buttons have slight contact problems

The construction instructions can be found online.

With power cable and adapter cable from DIN to jack."

Pics of the inside below.

See this previous post for the board w/ touch plate only.

CLICK FOR MORE »

SOOPERWEEK at SUPERBOOTH - List of Events for SUPERBOOTH24

Press release follows:

Berlin, May 14th 2024

SUPERBOOTH BERLIN - the world‘s biggest trade fair for electronic musical instru- ments – is happening this week from Thursday to Saturday (May 16th to May 18th) on the grounds of the FEZ-Berlin. An international audience of professionals and enthusiasts from all over the world will travel to Berlin for the event.

In addition to the SUPERBOOTH itself, there will also be an accompanying program with various side events. And in 2024, this side program, dubbed „SooperWeek“, is more extensive than ever before.
SooperWeek begins on Tuesday, May 14th at 7pm with a workshop at Schnei- dersLaden Berlin by the artist TamiX hailing from China who will also perform at SuperBooth24. More information can be found here.

On Wednesday, the day before SuperBooth, JacqNoise is hosting a pre-SuperBooth party at Ohm from 8pm. Among others, Blush Response, the YouTuber Cuckoo, Fess Grandiose b2b RMM and Trovarsi b2b ALX-106 will be playing. More informa- tion can be found here.

Thursday, there will be an audio-visual installation by Robert Seidel and Nikolai von Sallwitz in the Kulturraum Zwingli Kirche e.V. from 8pm for those that wish to relax after a dense first day of SuperBooth. More information here.

Thursday, there will also be a more musically intensive option at Berghain from 9pm: the Hunger To Create label night, the experimental label of Dasha Rush, who played at SuperBooth back in 2019. The program includes live sets by Dasha Rush, Colin Benders, Le Ciel and a DJ set by Quelza. More information here.

Thursday from 7pm, there will also be a party at Kater Blau: ATMOSPHÈRES Vol. 2 with Nadia Struiwigh, SURKID and more. More information here.

Friday from 7pm, the Novilla Art Center will host the Flux & Pulse event with live electronic music in the style of the Berlin School with the artists Filter-Kaffee and Kontroll-Raum, both of whom have already played at the SuperBooth. More information here.

Friday, the Berlin-based developer Bitwig, who is also exhibiting at Super- Booth24, will be celebrating its 10th anniversary with a party at Klunkerkranich from 10pm with a live set by Stimming and other performances. More information can be found here.

Friday there will also be a „Hyperbooth“ party at the Void Club from 11pm with Blush Response, who played at last year‘s SuperBooth, Zardonic and more. More information can be found here.

Saturday, Mykle Hansen is organizing a bike ride with synthesizers from Treptower Park to the SuperBooth event grounds, starting at 9.30am. The concept is called „Bleeps & Bloops Rides“ and originated in Portland. More information here.

On Saturday night, this year’s SuperBooth afterparty will be a From Our Minds party hosted by Richie Hawtin at Watergate with DJ and live sets from our longti- me SuperBooth friends Richie Hawtin and Sunroof (Daniel Miller & Gareth Jones), as well as sets and performances by the newcomers Franz Jäger, Declan James, dxrvo, machìna and Pooja B.

SuperBooth visitors will receive an entry discount of 10 euros (15 euros instead of 25 euros) at the door of this party when presenting a three-day SuperBooth ticket and can queue at the guest list queue. More information can also be found here.

Sunday - the last day of SooperWeek – there is an event at Klunkerkranich from 4pm, the DiY Kit Day x Berlin Modular Society. There will be DiY workshops where participants can solder various kits, as well as musical performances. More infor- mation can be found here.

There will also be two „invite only“ events on Sunday from two brands exhibiting at SuperBooth24: A 10th anniversary celebration from Verbos Electronics and anot- her event from Korg Berlin. If you are interested, please contact the brands directly.

Pre-sale tickets for SUPERBOOTH24 itself are still available at www.superbooth.com There will also be a box office at the event.