#NAMM 2026: Chordcat - this cat can elevate your chord progressions

video upload by CatSynth TV

"We get a tour of the Chordcat. In addition to featuring "cat" in its name, this eight-track groovebox has a large library of chord progressions, and the ability to predict/suggest follow-on chords to your current harmony in a palette from which the composer can then choose. It has built-in sounds as well as the ability to export MIDI to DAWs and other software for further development of compositions.

To find out more, please visit https://alphatheta.com/en/product/pro...


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Please consider supporting this channel to help us bring you more synthesizer tutorials and other content.
Merch: https://shop.catsynth.com
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/catsynth
Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/catsynth"

145 Sound Presets + 16 drum kits
Designed for a wide range of genres, you can spark fresh ideas during the creative process by switching between 145 sound presets and 16 drum kits.
Tune your sound presets however you like them using the low-pass filter and amp envelope. These parameters can be automated for each pattern, allowing you to dynamically change the tone as well as the chord progression. This allows you to create lively phrases.

Easily make unique chord progressions

Chord Cruiser Mode
Generate up to 110,000 chord combinations that you can use to create your own progressions.
Put the groovebox in Chord Cruiser mode, and an exclusive algorithm selects and suggests multiple musically compatible chords from its database. You can listen to these chords and assign your favorite to a keyboard, triggering the next suggestion automatically.
With this intuitive workflow at your fingertips, you can enjoy a simple process to create original tracks.

Versatile arrangement features and intuitive instrument control

3 built-in effects
Manipulate 3 built-in effects intuitively using the XY pad:
Arpeggiator: Creates melodies from chords.
Delay: Adds depth to sounds and spatial dimension to your music.
Ducker: Adds dynamics and emphasis, creating a sense of movement in your tracks.

Running Direction Feature
Change the playback direction of 4×4 step-sequenced patterns by pressing a single button.
Choose from 4 options — right, down, clockwise, and counterclockwise — to discover new phrases and rhythms. This feature unlocks new ideas, so you can create innovative chord progressions or explore rhythms across different genres.

Key and scale settings
When you set a key and scale on Chordcat, only the notes that belong to the selected key and scale are mapped to the keyboard.
The compatibility of chords suggested in Chord Play mode or Chord Cruiser mode and the selected key and scale are indicated by LED lights; perfect for beginners and professional musicians.

Versatile connectivity: Expand your creative horizons
It’s easy to integrate Chordcat with external synthesizers and DAW software on PC/Mac computers thanks to its MIDI OUT/THRU, MIDI IN, and USB Type-C ports.
Use Chord Play and Chord Cruiser modes to control and perform with your connected devices effortlessly.

HOME BAKE INSTRUMENTS DRUMS - Mapping Drum Machine

video upload by HOME BAKE INSTRUMENTS

"DRUMS: A Mapping Drum Machine for Dynamic Rhythm Creation
DRUMS is a mapping drum machine that generates diverse rhythms through knob control. It modernizes the concept of a portable rhythm machine reminiscent of 1979, transforming it into an entirely new drum machine.
The mapping sequencer allows users to create various rhythm patterns based on knob positions, enabling intuitive sequencing and arrangement. The sound engine includes a bass drum, snare, hi-hat, and rimshot, with the option to apply drive effects for added depth and character"

DRUMS demo

video upload by HOME BAKE INSTRUMENTS

NAMM 2026: CASIO Sampler Sneak Peek (Demo and Interview)

video upload by Bonedo Synthesizers

"Casio introduces a small but powerful Sampler at NAMM 2026!"

Randomwaves Introduces Drumboy Pro Edition: BeatMaking Redefined

video uploads by Randomwaves

"Drumboy Pro Edition: Launching on Kickstarter (15 May 2026) Check all details on our website and our pre-launch page

Our website:
https://www.randomwaves.io

Kickstarter Pre-launch Page:
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/..."

At Randomwaves, we are passionate makers dedicated to crafting unique, open-source sound gadgets. Our journey began with the Drumboy and Synthgirl Mini Editions. Delivering those projects was a profound learning experience; we navigated the real-world challenges of manufacturing firsthand, turning every obstacle into invaluable expertise. Inspired by that growth and your feedback, we channeled our passion into a new, uncompromising goal. The result is the Drumboy Pro Edition—a completely redesigned portable workstation engineered by us, and shaped by you. We’re counting down the days! We are officially going live on March 15, 2026. While we’re saving the full story and all the exciting details for the campaign page, we wanted to give you a sneak peek. For now, sit back and enjoy our introduction video to see what we’ve been working on!

Introducing MPC XL | The Next-Generation Flagship Standalone MPC for Sampling and Sequencing by Akai

video upload by Akai Professional

MPC XL Overview | Akai Professional

video upload by Akai Professional

MPC XL with Teddy Riley | Akai Professional

video upload by Akai Professional

And a user video by loopop:

Review: Akai MPC XL vs MPC X // MPC 3.7's biggest new feature // Using MPCe

video upload by loopop

THE FLAGSHIP OF ALL STANDALONES
MPC XL has everything you need for pro-level music making. It features ultra-responsive MPCe pads, a dedicated step sequencer, touch-sensitive Q-Links with OLED displays, a next-gen 8-core processor, 16 GB RAM, hands-on performance controls, advanced sequencing tools, deep I/O connectivity, and so much more. Integrated with MPC3 OS, this system supports up to 32 plugin instruments, 16 audio tracks, and 256 voices, making it a studio-grade workhorse.

A COMPLETE STUDIO CENTERPIECE
The flagship of all standalone music production systems, MPC XL is an all-in-one studio hub. Produce your entire album, drive your external hardware, and command your setup from one powerful instrument—no computer required.

POWERFUL PROCESSING
Powered by a new Gen 2 8-core processor with 16GB of RAM, MPC XL delivers four times the performance of previous MPCs. Load multiple plugin instruments, run complex sessions, and navigate your projects without interruption.

CREATIVE CONTROL AT YOUR FINGERTIPS
MPCe pads with 3D-sensing technology brings a new level of expression to beatmaking and production. Each pad features four distinct quadrants, enabling advanced X/Y control, sound morphing, looping, layering, and modulation for the most dynamic playing experience.

CLICK FOR MORE »

BalterLITE - FREE Dual sampler/sequencer

video upload by DecadeBridge

"BalterLITE is free to download from
https://www.decadebridge.com/free-plu...

BalterLITE features two samplers with dedicated 32 step sequencers for gate, pitch and volume. I am releasing this 'as is' as I have no time to develop it further. It is a little 'old skool' and kooky but is good for creating percussive sequences or stranger sounds when using longer samples."

"BalterLITE is a 2 channel sample player with an old skool approach. Each sampler features a gate, pitch and level sequencer for each of its 32 steps. It also features envelope generators for the lopass filters, a global envelope triggered by a midi note on event, a volume envelope triggered by each step that is active alongside a sample pitch decay control."

This Analog Synth Will Blow Your Mind – Introducing the Behringer BDS-3!

video upload by Behringer

It looks like the SDS-3 is now the BDS-3?

"Discover the Behringer BDS-3, the analog synth that rewrites the rules of drum machines!
With powerful sounds and full control, the BDS-3 is perfect for those looking for intense vibes, crushing bass, and unique percussion. It’s the synth you didn’t think you could have, but one that will make you fall in love with every beat.

From the raw energy of analog drums to more experimental sounds, the BDS-3 delivers everything you need to create unforgettable music, whether live or in the studio.

Watch this video for an engaging performance and see how the Behringer BDS-3 can transform your sound!"

Stromer Mutroniks Drumvoice 2000

video upload by Stromer Mutroniks

"My perfboard 808 type a thing"

A.I. Experiments: The Infinite Drum Machine

video upload by Google for Developers

"Check out https://g.co/aiexperiments to learn more.

Sounds are complex and vary widely. This experiment uses machine learning to organize thousands of everyday sounds. The computer wasn’t given any descriptions or tags – only the audio. Using a technique called t-SNE, the computer placed similar sounds closer together. You can use the map to explore neighborhoods of similar sounds and even make beats using the drum sequencer. http://g.co/aiexperiments

Built by Kyle McDonald, Manny Tan, Yotam Mann, and friends at Google Creative Lab. Thanks to the London Philharmonia for contributing some sounds to this project. t-SNE animation featured in video by Gene Kogan.

More resources:
https://github.com/lvdmaaten/bhtsne
http://www.philharmonia.co.uk/explore...
http://ml4a.github.io"

This one is in via Ivan Trajkovic aka dejayiwan.

A couple of screenshots for the archives:

Teenage Engineering Introduces EP–40 riddim n' EP–2350 ting

video upload by teenage engineering

"EP–40 riddim is a powerful sampler, sequencer and composer built for expressive live performance, with a powerful loop engine, and reggae-inspired FX. it comes packed with over 400 handcrafted instruments and sounds from iconic reggae producers, plus a synth engine with classic bass and lead tones and pressure-sensitive dub sirens. EP–2350 ting is a handheld performance mic with built-in effects and samples. connect it directly to riddim, or any sound system."

Riffin’ on the EP-40 Supertone - Teenage Engineering EP-40/EP-2350 Riddim and Ting

video upload by NOISEBUG

"The EP40/2350 is in stock at Noisebug, ready to ship today!

Teenage Engineering - EP-40, the newest member of the EP line is here. Now for the first time there are synthesizer engines built in. Layer all of your samples with fresh bass lines, leads and pads without losing any fidelity. There is also a new sample loop mode for toggling longer loops on and off. The ultimate layering machine!

EP-2350 Ting is a handheld vocal effects microphone and sample trigger. You can sample directly into the Riddim via Ting (or any external source)

Riddim comes stocked with almost 1,000 sounds, loops, one-shots and synthesizer engines. All sounds in this video are from the stock pre-loaded selection"

EP–40 RIDDIM is a powerful sampler, sequencer and composer built for expressive live performance, featuring tightly synced MIDI sequences, grid-synced loops, and reggae-inspired FX for real-time sound shaping. it comes packed with over 300 handcrafted instruments and sounds from iconic reggae producers, plus a synth engine with classic bass and lead tones and pressure-sensitive dub sirens.

EP–2350 TING is a handheld performance mic with built-in effects and samples. connect it directly to RIDDIM or any sound system.

product highlights:
EP–40 riddim:
12 stereo / 16 mono poly voices
128MB system memory
subtractive synth engine
grid-synced loops
9 user-editable projects
7 main fx and 12 punch-in™ fx
pressure sensitive keys and multifunctional fader
sampling frequency: 46 kHz / 16-bit
stereo in/out, sync in/out, midi in/out and usb-c
dimensions: 240 x 176 x 16 mm | 9.5 x 7 x 0.7 in

EP–2350 ting:
4 live voice effects: echo, echo+spring, pixie, robot
4 replaceable samples to trigger straight from the mic
live adjustable effects parameters
line out on 3.5 mm curly cable
lo-fi by design

This Analog Synth Will Blow Your Mind – Introducing the Behringer SDS-3!

video upload by Behringer

Follow-up to this post.

"Discover the Behringer SDS-3, the analog synth that rewrites the rules of drum machines! With powerful sounds and full control, the SDS-3 is perfect for those looking for intense vibes, crushing bass, and unique percussion. It’s the synth you didn’t think you could have, but one that will make you fall in love with every beat.

From the raw energy of analog drums to more experimental sounds, the SDS-3 delivers everything you need to create unforgettable music, whether live or in the studio.

Watch this video for an engaging performance and see how the Behringer SDS-3 can transform your sound!"

Sequenced with the Behringer RS-9.

Rhythm Machine Pedal From Recovery Effects Demo

video upload by recoverysounds

"The Rhythm Machine evokes the nostalgia of early 1970s preprogrammed analog drum machines, like those from Maestro, Univox, and Ace Electronics. It captures their charm and simplicity while delivering the classic sounds of later icons such as the Roland CR-78 and TR-606, all in a compact, easy-to-use pedal. Perfect for musicians chasing retro vibes without the hassle of bulky, temperamental units, it delivers instant, playable beats for live performance, practice, or recording.

The Rhythm Machine offers 10 versatile rhythms with the distinctive kick, snare, and hi-hat sounds of old-school drum machines. Each beat can be edited on the fly to mute voices, using clean switching for seamless, noise-free transitions. Modern features, such as tap-tempo control and a gate input, make it simple to integrate with your other gear. Pedalboard-friendly, sonically compatible with effects, and powered by a standard 9V supply, it delivers the iconic sounds of vintage drum machines in a stage- and studio-ready pedal that fits seamlessly into any setup."

www.recoveryeffects.com

AKAI Introduces the MPC LIVE III

video uploads by Akai Professional

Note here are 24 vidoes in the playlist above. Use the player controls to skip around.

Check with dealers on the right for price and availability.

Review: MPC Live III vs Live II // What's in the Pro Pack? // Using MPCe & Matrix // Live 3 Tutorial

video upload by loopop

TIMELINE:
0:00 Intro
1:20 vs Live II
2:00 MPCe pads
3:20 Articulations
4:10 Touch strip
5:05 Mic test
5:30 More power
7:00 New features
7:45 I/O
9:25 Content
9:55 Using MPCe
13:00 Drum seq
15:05 Note Seq
16:40 Step edit
17:35 Last step
18:00 Automation
18:35 Other modes
19:45 Macro buttons
22:00 Clip matrix
25:20 Rec to arrange
26:15 Live looping
27:10 Snapshots
28:50 Clip settings
30:35 Sequences
31:00 Super stretch
31:50 New stems
32:30 New FX
33:20 Env follower
34:00 CV tools
35:10 MPC Desktop
35:30 Pros & cons




KEY FEATURES

[NEW] Expressive pads

16 MPCe pads with 3D-sensing technology for flexible music production and expressive performance

CLICK FOR MORE »

Roland Introduces the TR-1000 Rhythm Creator w/ TR-808 and TR-909 Analog Drum Circuitry

video uploads by RolandChannel

The TR-1000 is available now for $2,699.99. Check with dealers on the right for availability.

"The TR-1000’s analog engine features 16 of the most coveted circuits from the TR-808 and TR-909, faithfully recreated from the original designs with detailed engineering and carefully selected modern components. Alongside the TR-1000’s analog voices are powerful digital sounds driven by Roland’s latest advancements, including 21 circuit-bent TR-808 and TR-909 models built with Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) technology, FM percussion, virtual analog tones, and a deep PCM library for sonic exploration and fresh textures."

Playlist:

1. Roland TR-1000 Rhythm Creator | Egyptian Lover Performance
2. Roland TR-1000 Rhythm Creator | Everything You Need to Know

User videos followed by hi-res pics and the press release:

CLICK FOR MORE »

Beatbuddy 2 vs the OG // Why its best feature is the community // Review & Tutorial

video upload by loopop

TIMELINE:
0:00 Intro
1:20 BB2 vs BB
1:50 Master ctrl
5:00 I/O
6:10 Differences
6:50 Superswitch
7:25 Expression
8:00 Dynamics
9:20 MIDI
9:35 USB?
10:25 Panel
11:25 Screen
11:55 Autopilot
12:50 HD Kits
15:15 Melodies
15:45 BBMO2
16:05 Songs
16:35 Emulator
17:20 Melodies
17:50 Whole tracks
18:20 Song match
18:50 Community
19:10 Plugin
19:15 Pros & cons

Bad Dog Designs OSPRAY 8 Drum Synthesizer

video upload by Pro Synth Network

"I have been very privileged to test, advise, and consult with Paul at Bad Dog Designs on this brilliant drum synthesizer. Taking circuit designs that were over 40 years old, published in E&MM magazine, Paul has recreated and refined these three drum synth designs to create OSPRAY-8, a "vintage" 21st century drum synthesizer.

Four drum modules, three cymbal modules and a clap module, triggerable via MIDI or CV and with a stereo audio output or individual mono outputs per drum, this is the sound of the nascent analog drum synth of the 1980s in a beautiful handmade case.

For more information and details on how to get your hands on one, contact Bad Dog Designs to register your interest.

https://www.bad-dog-designs.co.uk/con..."

OSPRAY8 Analogue Percussion Synthesizer Demos

video upload by Bad Dog Designs

"After about 4 months on and off, I've got my percussion Synthesizer in a state where I'm happy with the look and sounds :)

All original 1980's circuit designs with just a few component changes for later IC's, and of course Midi In and through as well as individual trigger inputs.

The OSPRAY-8 ( Old School Percussion Right At Ya! ) comprises 8 individual modules, arranged as 4 X Drum modules / 3 X Cymbal modules / 1 X Handclap module. There is then a final control module that handles midi, midi channel selection and Stereo output.

The Drum Module can generate a multitude of sounds from Bass drums to Snares, Toms, Rimshots, bleeps and other weird and wonderful sounds.

The Cymbal Module can generate Open and Closed Hi-Hats, Gongs, Cowbells as well as other metallic oddness.

The Handclap does as it says, but will generate multiple claps with full control of frequency / resonance / ambience etc.

As each module has it's own line out and trigger in, you can join two together, so you can combine a handclap with a drum and get a really sharp and punchy snare for example.

The front panel is machined from a single piece of aluminium, the lettering engraved into the surface for a well engineered finish. The Casing is still in development, but you can see a mock up in the clip.
All the audio is straight out of the OSPRAY-8 with no processing."


via Bad Dog Designs

"The Ospray-8 is a fully Analogue percussion synthesizer, housed in a free standing desktop format. The sounds are produced by entirely analogue electronic modules, tailored for different percussive sound types. The Ospray-8 contains 8 modules connected together, comprising of 4 X Drum Modules, 3 X Cymbal Modules and 1 X Handclap module. There is then a housekeeping module that handles midi control, and stereo outputs."

CLICK FOR MORE »

PsyCo X Xds-3

via this Reverb listing

"- as new condition, only used as a triggered module, bough new of Simon 1/2 year ago

- comes with power supply & box

- only 10 were ever made, homage to the Simmons SDS3"

This is the first one to be featured on the site. PsyCo also made the SY1-M. See the PsyCo label at the bottom of this post for more.

SPHERICAL SOUND SOCIETY Introduces OMNICYCLONE - A Generative FM Beat Machine

Launching OMNICYCLONE. A Generative FM Beat Machine video upload by SPHERICAL SOUND SOCIETY

"OMNICYCLONE is a unique take on generative synthesizers. It's primarily focused on percussive phrases, but it can also create melodic content.

At its core lies a Yamaha OPL2 emulator that has been extensively modified to achieve things the original chips couldn't – like a fully stereo image and a complete revamp of sonic possibilities.

We've taken some of the most interesting features from WINTERMUTE, expanded the emulator further, and hybridized them with OPERA ROTAS features to birth a new generative beast that sounds surprisingly retro and modern at the same time.

You can order Omnicyclone here:

https://www.tindie.com/products/jc204..."



"OMNICYCLONE is a unique take on generative synthesizers. It's primarily focused on percussive phrases, but it can also create melodic content.

At its core lies an OPL2 emulator that has been extensively modified to achieve things the original Yamaha chips couldn't – like a fully stereo image. Some Yamaha chips of that era only offered hard-panned stereo (just center, left, or right). OMNICYCLONE provides 256 possible stereo positions, which sounds probably awesome.

We've taken some of the most interesting features from WINTERMUTE, expanded the emulator further, and hybridized them with OPERA ROTAS features to birth a new generative beast that sounds surprisingly retro and modern at the same time.

In this new incarnation, we've added volume bars for each channel, providing a clearer visual understanding of what's happening under the hood.

The synth is controlled by 2 banks of parameters, plus a fully-featured global LFO and global parameters for controlling each of the ADSR stages. It also includes a variety of new generative strategies that are explained in the manual.

OMNICYCLONE runs on the Fluorine hardware, meaning you can flash Fluorine's other firmwares (there are 4 different ones to choose from) in addition to the OMNICYCLONE firmware. This gives you multiple synths in one piece of hardware.

There's also a new firmware that turns the Fluorine hardware into a USB MIDI Controller with 2 banks of potentiometers. This means you essentially have multiple synths plus a MIDI controller in one device

The OMNICYCLONE firmware is closed source. Existing Fluorine users can order the digital files to easily switch between their other Fluorine firmwares and the OMNICYCLONE firmware. The USB MIDI Controller firmware is also free for Fluorine users, but the OMNICYCLONE firmware has a small fee to support its development.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Native Instruments Introduces MR1 Valve Data

MR1 Valve Data walkthrough video upload by Native Instruments

"Product expert Reuben Cornell takes you through the innovative features of this new kind of drum machine from cult developer 10 Phantom Rooms. MR1 Valve Data is a new approach to creative drums. Hear its raw analog tube beats and see how its drum sequencer and innovative controls quickly shift, warp, and shape to create compelling beats."

Chapters:
00:00 - Introduction
01:44 - Snapshot Examples
07:25 - Interface Overview
08:09 - Source Sounds Examples
09:19 - Sample Start Examples
10:30 - Randomization
10:44 - ABC Variations
10:58 - Mod Wheel Macro Control
11:18 - Creating Variations
11:43 - Quick Edit Overview
13:07 - Cutoff / Tune / Decay / Burn Dials
13:35 - Burn Processing
14:27 - Cut Macro
14:39 - Time Macro
15:00 - Pump Processing
15:35 - Sequencing Control
17:10 - Pan / Cutoff / Sample Start Sequencing
17:45 - Mutate
18:12 - Global Sequencing Options
19:18 - Mix / Edit / FM Page Summary
19:40 - Conclusion"



via Native Instruments

"Modular tube drum machine

A new kind of drum machine – fun and easy to use with special real-time features
155 presets based on over 300 creative samples, designed with modular tube gear
Morph, shift, and transform beats like never before with intuitive performance controls

Raw analog tube beats transformed

From 10 Phantom Rooms’ new Modular Rhythm series, MR1 Valve Data leads the way in a new approach to creative drums. The real-time features let you morph parameters with just one control, for totally fresh sounds.

And that’s not all. Get dirty, deep tube-processed drums with the satisfying analog grit of sampled oscillators, filters, and granular effects. Create distinctive beats fast with intuitive sequencer, randomizer, and mutator features. Then, warp and shape them with "burning" distortion effects, tuning, plus reverb and delay including new sidechaining controls.

Created by 10 Phantom Rooms exclusively for NI

MR1 Valve Data is the first in the new Modular Rhythm series created by 10 Phantom Rooms. Specializing in next-generation Kontakt instruments for film and media composers, the company was founded by sound and instrument designer Tobias Menguser, alongside Paul Haslinger (ex-Tangerine Dream, Underworld). With a career spanning three decades, Tobias has created sounds and instruments for many of the industry’s biggest names, including sounds for more than 600 movie trailers.

At a glance

Product type: Kontakt instrument

For use with: Free Kontakt Player or Kontakt

Sound category: Hybrid modular plugin

Number of snapshots: 155 with 3 variations each

Download size: 300 MB

System requirements: Free Kontakt Player or Kontakt (version 8.4.1 or higher). Please also see the Kontakt Player system requirements and the Kontakt Player FAQ.

User Manual PDF

You can install this instrument with Native Access – just as you would with any Native Instruments product."

Announcing the Tracker Mini 10th Anniversary Edition by Polyend

video upload by Polyend

"This is the Polyend Tracker 10th anniversary edition. To celebrate 10 years of Polyend we’ve designed a limited edition Tracker Mini. Preorder The Tracker Mini in a premium all-aluminum build for a limited time only. Redesigned buttons, glass screen, same fast workflow, in Black or Silver.

CGI & Art Direction: @tektura.studio
Music: @alex_retsis"



"To celebrate Polyend’s 10th anniversary, we’ve designed a limited-edition Tracker Mini, crafted entirely from aluminum and available only by reservation for a limited time.

NEW MATERIAL
The classic Tracker Mini experience with a new look. Encased in a solid, precision-machined aluminum body, this exclusive version features redesigned buttons and a high contrast glass screen. This is a premium, limited-run device — designed and assembled without compromise at our headquarters in Poland.

LIGHT OR DARK
Choose the look that fits your setup — go with the sleek silver for a clean, modern look, or the timeless black option. Both feature a durable all-aluminum enclosure built to last.

FUNCTIONALITY
This special edition maintains the original Polyend Tracker Mini workflow and functionality. All Tracker Minis share the same hardware interface, including the d-pad navigation, master controls, I/O, function buttons, and the same constantly evolving firmware."

Reserve now - https://polyend.com/tracker-mini-10th...

CLICK FOR MORE »