Bristronica 24: GLOOP Looper From Cutlasses

video upload by sonicstate

"Showing on the Thonk booth we caught up with Scott, also known as Cutlasses, Scott, also known as Cutlasses, who introduced us to *Gloop*, a modular looper with a twist. Gloop offers a standard looping capability, allowing you to record up to ten minutes of audio with overdubbing options. What sets it apart are its four distinct playheads, which can mix various sections of the loop on different channels and adjust their speed and pitch in semitones. This provides the flexibility to play loops forward or backward and fine-tune sub-loops for improved musicality.

Initially created for Scott’s performances, the collaboration with Thonk led to integrating four configurable CV inputs plus a trigger input. These additions enable precise control over each playhead, including volume, speed, and loop position. Users can engage simple onboard effects such as delay, reverb, and bit crushing, and even experiment with real-time loop remixing. Gloop is anticipated to be available in November."

And a video from Cutlasses:

Gloop - Experimental Performance Looper

video upload by Cutlasses

"A demo of my current DIY project - Gloop. Gloop is a looper in the eurorack format. This version is built using the Electrosmith Daisy Seed. It allows you to record loops (with overdub), and playback with 4 simultaneous play heads. Each play head can be at a different part of the loop, playing at a different speed/pitch, direction and volume.

For more info see http://www.cutlasses.co.uk/tech/gloop..."

Bristronica 24: A Quick Look at Elektron's Syntakt Update

video upload by sonicstate

"At this year's Machina Bristronica, we spoke with Christian from Elektron about a significant OS update for their Syntakt device. The update introduced several new features and machine additions for you to explore creatively. Four new machines, namely the BD Acoustic, SD Acoustic, Psychip, and HH Lab, have been adapted from the Analog Rytm into the Syntakt, expanding its sonic capabilities.

Additionally, the update included new features like page looping, enabling you to loop a specific page within a track, making it more efficient to work with multiple pages. A Euclidean Sequencer was also introduced, allowing intricate rhythmic sequences to be crafted easily."

See the Machina Bristronica label below for additional coverage of the event.

Bristronica 24: Big T Music's Mutable Open Source Modules

video upload by sonicstate

"At Machina Bristronica 2024, we caught up with Gaz from Big T Music - The range includes one-to-one replications of Mutable Instruments' designs, like Veils and Stages, and also unique adaptations such as the Beehive, a compact version of Plaits. Gaz noted that some designs include expanded features with different firmware, enhancing the default functionalities while maintaining a distinct aesthetic.

Their interpretation of Monsoon brings hidden functions to the forefront, thanks to collaborative efforts, including input from designer Jonathan Barnbrook."

All parts here. Also see the Machina Bristronica below for additional coverage.

Playfader - CV/ MIDI sequencing

video upload by True Cuckoo

More info: https://goplayallday.com

ZERO is a tiny DJ / Performance instrument

video upload by True Cuckoo

"More info and preordering: https://driftdj.com"

$499 USD (excl. VAT)

Zero is a unique, fun to play, truly-portable DJ system featuring 2-deck playback and a familiar mixer layout. Its small form-factor, playability, and powerful features make Zero the ideal creative audio device for hardware enthusiasts and outside-the-booth DJs.

2-channel playback system including: tempo-sync, beat grid, effects, EQ, and looper

32 GB internal music library

Built-in audio recording system

Audio, CV, and clock I/O for syncing with external gear

Rechargeable internal battery

Syntakt Software Update Peek!!

video upload by True Cuckoo

"Update kinda imminent. Info will drop through Elektron 's official news channels when the time is right. Very very soon. Wohoo!"

Sculpting Sampler - Torso Electronics S4

video upload by True Cuckoo

New Machina Bristronica 2024 Videos

Videos 10 - 22 have been added to this post. Click through to check them out. Also see the Machina Bristronica label below for additional posts.

Machina Bristronica 2024 Walkaround With MATTHS

video upload by MATTHS

"Lets have a wonder around the world of Machina Bristronica 2024 and take in all the sites and sounds.

Connect with me for live streams, music and more:

https://www.matthsmatthsmatths.com"

Machina Bristronica 2024

video uploads by sonicstate

Playlist:

1. Bristronica 24: MyVolts The Silent Alchemist Nears Shipping

We caught up with Caroline who gave us the latest update to the *Silent Alchemist*, a versatile power hub designed for musicians. Featuring five isolated USB-C outputs and a high-wattage sixth output capable of delivering 100 watts, the device can power a Mac with the remaining outputs providing 20 watts each. Its independent circuits ensure noise-free operation, catering to a variety of devices including the Dreadbox module and Sysmo slope generator.

The Silent Alchemist uses innovative step-up power tips to convert USB-C input to the correct voltage for various devices. There's also new feature: an uninterruptible power supply allowing seamless transition between wall and power bank sources. Also introduced were updated cables, such as silver candy cords and floating ring TRS to TS cables, expanding connection flexibility. The Silent Alchemist is expected to be available in December with a competitive pricing strategy.

More Info:
https://myvolts.com/

2. Bristronica 24: Circuit Happy ML2M Clock Sync module updates

At Bristronica 2024, we caught up with the creator of the *ML2M*, who introduced us to the latest version. The ML2M is a compact Eurorack module with Wi-Fi capabilities, allowing seamless synchronization with Ableton Live, Bitwig Studio, and iOS music apps using Ableton Link without the need for cables. It either connects to an existing network or creates its own, ensuring robust sync even in environments with unreliable Wi-Fi. The module, which retains its 2HP size, now features MIDI integration through TRS jacks. Users can access a web interface to configure each output for different clock divisions and reset triggers, making setup straightforward and flexible.

Alongside the ML2M, there's also the Missing Link Junior. This desktop version offers the same functionality but in a box format, complete with MIDI and CV clock outputs. Both products are now accessible, with a starting price of $250.

3. Bristronica 24: Archaea Exchange Patching Module

At Machina Bristronica 2024, we caught up with Arran from ‪@archaea_modular_synthesis‬ who presented the *Exchange Module*. This programmable patcher, a year in the making, evolved from its early prototype stage to a fully functional module. Arran explained how the Exchange can route synth voices via a beam controller and three exchange modules installed within the skiff, allowing for versatile patching. Operating like a matrix patchbay, it enables users to select inputs and outputs with the push of a button, create presets, and chain multiple modules for synchronized patching.

Communication between the modules occurs over the Eurorack power bus as well as over MIDI via the USB-C connection. The Exchange maintains analog integrity, ensuring there’s no conversion latency. The forthcoming release expected in late November 2024, includes a USB-driven editor for enhanced control capabilities.

CLICK FOR MORE »

A Chat With Cuckoo - And A Synth Jam With UDO Super Gemini and Super 8

video upload by sonicstate

Dragons & fireflies.

"We had a visit from ‪@truecuckoo‬ who's in town for the Elevator Sound Machina Bristronica Show this weekend where he is both performing and speaking. As we were lucky enough to have a pair of ‪@udo_audio‬ synths in, the Super Gemini and the Super 8, we put them back to back and had a chat and a noodle."

Euclidean Beats on DivSkip

video upload by Making Sound Machines

"Getting ready for Machina Bristonica 2024 in Bristol UK, coming up this weekend! We are having a workshop on Saturday starting 14.00 where you can build our DIY kits or a @plinkysynth with us! And on Sunday at 14.15, we will be on the DivKid stage chatting with Ben about Life, the Universe and Modular. Come meet us there, and bring your best questions!

In this last-jam-before-the-flight-leaves, we are exploring the Euclidean Modes built into DivSkip, our module collaboration with @DivKid.

Euclidean rhythms are a fun and intuitive way to generate looping musical patterns. #DivSkip has two modes that generate Euclidean rhythms. The one used here, Euclidean Split, always sets three steps and distributes them over a pattern length that can be adjusted using the knob.

In this patch, Enrica adjusts the length of the pattern which in turn advances alternating bass and chord notes played on the @WeAreElektron Model:cycles. This results in cool syncopated, rhythmic shifts throughout the sketch.

She adds a shifting pattern of ghost notes with a clock divider on DivSkip's channel 3, set to three steps. The sound is generated using Mutable Instruments Plaits, with the A and B outputs triggering alternating CV settings using @vaskiembedded's ECS-4 Triggered Switch module.

DivSkip's channel 1 is set to play a four-to-the-floor pattern on Out A and B, going to kick and snare on @VladimirPantelic's VPME QD quad drum voice.

Enrica mutes and unmutes each channel on the fly with a click of the push potentiometer.

DIY Kits are in stock at @ThonkSynthDIY (UK), @explodingshed5542 (EU) and @NightlifeElectronics (CAN - DIY and built)

Built modules are available at @signal-sounds (UK), @PerfectCircuit (US), @Elevator-Sound (UK+EU) and @schneidersladen_berlin (EU)"

Erica Synths origins story & the importance of collaboration // Machina Bristronica 2023

video upload by DivKid

"Here’s an edit of the DivKid Discussions stage talk with Erica Synths from Machina Bristronica 2023. We talk about Girts origins in synth DIY, NOS polivoks parts in an open electronics market in Riga, expanding the team & the important of collaboration."

*TIMING INDEX // CHAPTERS*
00:00 Hello intro
00:34 Erica Synths origins
01:52 DIY hobbyist to company time frame
02:58 Finding NOS Polivoks chips in an open market
04:06 Bedroom business & other work
05:02 Meeting the right people
08:26 Collaboration as a key part of Erica Synths
10:37 Latvian electronics production & manufacturing
13:43 Collaborating with 112dB & Hexinverter
16:09 Collaborating with LXR

Schlappi Engineering on Nibbler, Three Body and going from clean to dirt // Machina Bristronica 2023

video upload by DivKid

"What a pleasure it was to chat to Eric of Schlappi Engineering, learn what a nibble is (not a mousey little bite of your food) and talk about going from clean to dirty tones and back. Here's the 2023 Machina Bristronica 'DivKid Discussion' with more of those to come in the run up to the 2024 Machina Bristronica event.

Check out Schlappi here // https://schlappiengineering.com

The 2024 Machina Bristronica event is coming on October 12th and 13th and we'll have new talks and discussions at this years event. Tickets and information here // https://machinabristronica.uk"

*TIMING INDEX // CHAPTERS*
00:00 Intro
00:32 Hello & a short performance
02:24 Clean to harsh tone philosophy
04:51 Start with the knobs down
05:56 A Nibbler focused patch
07:18 Do you know what a nibble is?
08:48 Three body harmonic ratios
09:46 Only the finest of switches!
10:11 Shift register melodies
11:50 Listening to Nibbler only
12:56 Dial up modem synthesis
13:26 Other modules in the patch
14:34 The Three Body overview
15:38 Oscillator cross modulation
16:48 Three Body in stereo
17:45 Phase & FM indexes
18:15 Musical stability or something really thick!

Joranalogue on Eurorack Design Philosophy + Analog Modular Techno! // Machina Bristronica 2023

video upload by DivKid

"In this video Joran discusses his history, birth, design philosophy and Joranalogue modular range while Boris gives us a banging hit of analog modular techno to round things off. This was part of the DivKid Discussion stage from Machina Bristronica 2023.

The 2024 Machina Bristronica event is coming on October 12th and 13th and we'll have new talks and discussions at this years event. Tickets and information here // https://machinabristronica.uk"

Vostok Instruments Interview + Atlas Filter Design & Demo // Machina Bristronica 2023

video upload by DivKid

"With Machina Bristronica 2024 not that far around the corner and with it having a whole DivKid stage again with several discussions lets take a look at the talks from 2023.

In this video Jose from Vostok Instruments joins me to discuss his origins, getting into Eurorack personally, building up the company and modules before getting into his latest module Atlas. There's a lot of filter love, design chat and sound demos.

Thanks to Jose and the whole team at Machina Bristronica for a fantastic time, can't wait for the next one, tickets and info for that here // https://machinabristronica.uk

**TIMING INDEX // CHAPTERS**
00:00 Intro
00:40 Personal Eurorack journey
03:21 Vostok origins
04:40 Multi channel design philosophy
06:04 Atlas & a love of filters
07:46 The sound of Atlas
09:00 Choosing filter slopes and poles
10:33 Normalling inputs across channels
12:28 Choosing secondary CV inputs
14:33 Interpolating scanner
16:49 Quad filter modulated drones
17:25 Filter pings
18:53 Adding click and punch to pings
19:29 Clean click free low end booms
21:40 Playful spacing and needing multiple filters
21:43 Complex patches from simple things + needing “more of the same”

A synth design masterclass by SOMA SYNTHS Vlad Kreimer.

video upload by mylarmelodies

"In this talk, Soma's Vlad Kreimer explains the unique difference behind 'organismic' synths like the Lyra-8 or Terra vs. everything else. He also explains how other synth brands could be more organismic - and why they may want to be. I believe ideas in this can inspire synth designers as well as anyone designing modular patches..."

This was delivered at Machina Bristronica 2023, check out the event and attend the next event in 2024 here:
▶︎ https://ra.co/events/1788966

CHAPTERS
00:00 Opening thoughts
1:50 What is 'Romantic' Engineering?
5:28 The need for imperfections
9:46 Static digital oscillator
10:22 ...vs analog oscillator
12:30 ...vs a violin.
15:47 Musician vs The Sound They Want
22:15 The secret of Lyra-8
25:12 Triggering Emotional Resonance
27:39 What is an Organismic synth?
31:08 Organismic: The Visual Analogy
32:31 Linear Synth vs Organismic
36:10 Vlad's Challenge to Synth Brands
37:19 Q&A: Macro controls vs Organismic
40:23 Q&A: What synths does Vlad admire?
41:47 Q&A: What is TOO MUCH 'organismic'?
43:02 Q&A: How do you know when a synth is done?
45:16 Q&A: Can we truly perform synths that aren't organismic?
48:19 Q&A: Beyond touch, what other ways can we control synths?
50:29 Q&A: Will people commit to learning to play instruments?
51:47 Q&A: Vlad's Dream: The brain-to-music interface!
53:10 Q&A: What is the Soma design 'difference'?

Hack Modular at Machina Bristronica Synth Festival!

video upload by Hack Modular

Hack Shop: https://www.tindie.com/stores/hackmod...

Machina Bristronica 2023 // a Eurorack & Synth Event Walkthrough

video upload by DivKid

"Fresh out of Bristol, here's a walkthrough of the second Machina Bristronica event! It's "a festival of knobs, buttons & discussions" for Eurorack, synthesisers and music tech in general. With added interview & discussion stages, DIY workshops as well as performances and DJs rounding out the event.

I ran the DivKid interview stage (watch out for videos of the 7 interviews coming soon) but got chance in the morning to wonder around with a camera to give you a walk around of the event. Feel free to people and gear watch along as I take a walk through the venue."

See the Machina Bristronica label below for more.

Machina Bristronica 2023 - Walkthrough and best new things

video upload by Molten Music Technology

"I attempted to capture the vibe of Machina Bristronica on a 360 camera, so here's a walkthrough of the entire thing. Plus I highlight some of the cool new things I saw and share my thoughts on how it all went."

https://machinabris.wpengine.com/

Index:
Intro - 0:00
The Grand Tour - 2:12
DivKid Stage - 2:29
Live Space - 3:15
Main Hall - 3:21
DIY Workshops - 3:58
All the synths and modular - 4:13
Data stage - 4:40
Synths! - 5:03
Discussion Stage 18:52
Live Space and bar again - 21:04
Highlights - 22:32
Tiptop Audio ART - 23:56
RYK new FM module - 27:03
Venus Instruments VENO-LOOPER - 28:10
Vostok Atlas - 28:55
Stochastic Instruments Strange-R-Things? - 30:10
PlayFader - 32:45
Befaco FX Boy - 33:50
Gaz cable thingies - 34:14
Julia Bondar live - 34:37
Conclusions - 35:43

See the Machina Bristronica label below for additional coverage of the event.