"The long wait is over. The UB-Xa is ready to be unleashed.
After 6 years of intense development, what started as a labor of love morphed into a development of the most complex and versatile platform to serve not only the UB-Xa but all our polyphonic synthesizers we have planned.
'A special thank you goes to all our engineers and beta testers who spent years with us designing, engineering, testing, and fine tuning this beautiful instrument. We are immensely grateful for all your contribution.' - Uli
Music and Video created by Patrick with the UB-Xa."
Update: "List Price: $1,499 (stay tuned for a little surprise)"
"Classic Analog 16-Voice Multi-Timbral Polyphonic Synthesizer with 8 Vintage Modes, Dual VCFs and 61-Key Poly After-Touch Keyboard
Embrace the legacy and make your mark on history with the UB-Xa from Behringer. More than just a recreation of a classic synthesizer, we’ve made sure that the UB-Xa has all the bells, whistles and characteristics that came with the original, but it’s also filled to the brim with modern features such as velocity and after-touch, 512 user program memories and comprehensive MIDI implementation. This makes for a well-rounded synth that’ll make friends with anything in your setup.
Faithful Recreation and More
To recreate its iconic growl and sizzle, we dove deep into the inner workings of the original OB-Xa and brought them into the 21st century including all its original factory patches that made the 80s roar. Thanks to its VCOs and VCFs heavily based on the original 3340 and 3320 chip designs, 16 voices and the ability to split its keyboard so you can layer 2 different sounds, the UB-Xa is capable of conjuring up massive sounding riffs.
An Icon for the Icons
The UB-Xa is a synth like no other that stands on the shoulders of giants! Its legacy is what gave birth to the 80s most iconic hits from the world’s most famous artists! From Rush’s Geddy Lee, The Police, Prince to Van Halen, and even the iconic Terminator theme composed by Brad Fiedel, the UB-Xa’s lineage is filled only with the greats and now you can make your own mark on history as well."
Polyend is introducing Play+, Sample + Synth + MIDI groovebox.
3x Multitimbral Polyphonic Synth Engine
4 All New Synthesizer Engines with hundreds of presets combined with Play’s advanced sequencing capabilities
New Multi-Track Audio Over USB Integration and Stereo Sample Playback
Pick and Place - control the sequence
Instant playability - just turn on and PLAY!
2. Polyend Play+ WTFM Synth Engine Demo
Play+ offers more than just sample and MIDI playback; it now includes integrated synthesizers. Multiple synth engines have been added, each offering a unique character and including an extensive library of professionally crafted presets.
WTFM is a unique 2-operator FM synth engine that utilizes WaveTable-based oscillators driven by a 3x feedback system.
3. Polyend Play+ VAP Synth Engine Demo
Play+ offers more than just sample and MIDI playback; it now includes integrated synthesizers. Multiple synth engines have been added, each offering a unique character and including an extensive library of professionally crafted presets.
VAP is a Virtual Analog Polysynth that boasts a dual-oscillator architecture and a versatile modulation matrix.
4. Polyend Play+ FAT Synth Engine Demo
Play+ offers more than just sample and MIDI playback; it now includes integrated synthesizers. Multiple synth engines have been added, each offering a unique character and including an extensive library of professionally crafted presets.
FAT is a powerhouse synth engine that epitomizes the lush, vintage warmth of classic analog synthesizers.
5. Polyend Play+ ACD Synth Engine Demo
Play+ offers more than just sample and MIDI playback; it now includes integrated synthesizers. Multiple synth engines have been added, each offering a unique character and including an extensive library of professionally crafted presets.
ACD is a recreation of iconic single-oscillator monophonic analog synths that transport you back to the golden age of electronic music.
Review: Polyend PLAY PLUS // Is it worth the upgrade? // (and PLAY+ Synth Tutorial)
Googlish:
"Chalthemite is an 8-voice physical modeling synth.
Equipped with unique controls using Hall sensors and magnets, it produces organic wind instrument sounds."
The S-4 is a sculpting sampler designed to capture and transform sounds. Merging tape-era workflows with cutting-edge technology, the S-4 redefines sound mangling by providing a futuristic platform for crafting unique soundscapes and compositions, using samples and real-time audio processing.
S-4 is a tool made for sonic explorers. It has four parallel stereo tracks, each with an audio engine featuring a chain of audio devices including samplers, live granular processing, morphing resonators, and a range of audio effects. A novel modulation system allows anything and everything to be modulated with 4 modulators per track."
The S-4 is a versatile powerhouse, capable of serving as an effects processor, transformative sound designer, tape machine, live looper, classic sample player, or textural synthesizer.
Audio engine Push the creative boundaries and transform audio into uncharted depths. S-4 has four parallel stereo tracks, each of which contains a chain of five audio devices tailored to cover specific sonic areas and applications. Create everything from glittering textures to broken soundscapes or evolving synth sounds.
Together, the devices form a playful toolbox for sculpting sample material and live audio.
Material Stereo tape and sample players with live audio and looping capabilities.
Granular Live granular processing with time-warping and pitch-shifting algorithms.
Filter Morphing resonator: 48-band tuned filter bank with animation, tonal control, and classic filter functions.
Color Collection of destructive effects including bit crushing, drive, and compression.
Space Combined reverb and delay with pitch-shifting and shimmer.
"I attended the press launch of the new YAMAHA GENOS 2 WORKSTATION ARRANGER KEYBOARD and had the privilege of meeting the people that designed and created this new keyboard and watching the Martin Harris demo. Here are my insights from speaking with the team on the best new features, styles and sounds on this exciting new instruments.
Many more demo, review and tutorial videos to come over the coming weeks when I receive my own GENOS 2!"
Playlist:
Genos2 - Your Next Masterpiece
What is FM Synthesis
Genos2 Voice and Style Demo
What is MIDI Song to Style
What is REVelation Reverb
What is Style Dynamics Control
Genos2 Compatibility Video
Mini press release:
"The new Genos2 is the ultimate arranger workstation for you. Genos2 represents an evolution in innovation with even more capabilities, including the highest quality Voice & Style content. Now you can lead the ultimate ‘cover band’ like never before by playing and performing your favorite songs by your favorite artists with:
Innovative content and technology, featuring exclusive new Real Ambient Drums
All-new Genos2 Real FM Sound Engine
Live Control Surface featuring assignable knobs and sliders with LED indicators
Updated Playlist function for a better-than-ever playing experience
Inspiring Voices & Styles Genos2 is loaded with expanded Voices & Styles functionality designed to unleash your creativity, including:
Widest range of genres to choose from Downloadable Playlist offering versatile functionality and easy access to your favorite songs Instrument Sampling/Vertical Integration that ensures consistency and quality of music samples
Confidence, Control & Performance Confidence, Control & Performance Genos2 allows you to change the intensity of the musicians with the Style Dynamics Control feature, while the AI Chord Mode offers intuitive control of instruments and Voices & Styles. More features include:
Real Ambient Drums that bring Styles to life in a variety of environments Microphone Input that makes you sound like a pro On-screen Karaoke Lyrics"
"The KAOSS Replay is the latest and greatest in the critically acclaimed KAOSS series of performance tools. It's a self-contained Dynamic Effects processor and Sampler that offers everything you need to create electrifying live performances! Join Matthew Piecora (EZBOT) as he covers the intuitive touch capacitive LCD screen, 16 adjustable velocity sensitive pads, assignable cross faders, processing incoming audio, monitoring, and loads of effects including filters, distortion, loopers, delays, reverb, and vocal effects."
Chapters:
01:45 Assignable Effects
02:29 Touch Hold
02:46 Pad Motion
03:05 Using A Looper Effect To Transition
04:29 Assignable Crossfaders
5:32 External Audio Transition
06:34 Sampling
07:51 Trigger Pad Edit
09:40 Resampling
10:29 Stretch Sync
10:57 Variable Pitch
11:17 Quantize
11:43 Mute and Solo
12:02 Hot Cue
13:02 Vocal Effects
15:13 Synth Effects
16:02 Surface Control
And a user video by :
Korg KAOSS REPLAY // Pros & cons vs the competition (SP404 MK2, MPC, Blackbox) // Tutorial
With its groundbreaking XY pad and innovative and distinctive FX, the critically acclaimed KAOSS series has reshaped the music landscape, rewriting the rules of live performances and musical innovation across its various iterations.
KAOSS Replay is a self-contained performance tool that reshapes the KAOSS legacy, serving as an all-in-one solution for musicians, performers, and producers. It features unparalleled KAOSS Pad and Effects, expanded sample playback and sampling capabilities, and intuitive and precise DJ controls. In a portable stand-alone unit, KAOSS Replay facilitates electrifying KAOSS-infused performances on the fly, eliminating the need for additional equipment.
KAOSS Replay unlocks a new realm of musical creativity and boundless performance possibilities.
Stand-alone KAOSS
KAOSS Replay A dream come true for live musicians, KAOSS Replay allows you to immerse yourself in the creative essence of your performance without distractions.
Powered by USB-C and equipped with ample on-board connectivity, KAOSS Replay offers effortless and swift setup, granting you stress-free performances without the hassle of intricate and cluttered gear settings, regardless of your location.
Taking a leap beyond its predecessors, it introduces an advanced sample playback and sampling system, boasting 128 sample slots (16 pads x 8 banks) for each of up to 100 projects, ensuring uninterrupted hours of Kaoss-fueled live sets.
Encased in a robust aluminum body, its sleek and minimalist design strikes the perfect balance between performance-friendly size and backpack-friendly portability.
Unique KAOSS FX
KAOSS Replay builds on the unique KAOSS Legacy, introducing a rich palette of 128 new KAOSS FX. These encompass a spectrum from practical filters, delays, and reverbs to imaginative and exhilarating modulation effects, Loopers, vocoders, and synth effects. Moreover, marking a groundbreaking first in the KAOSS series, KAOSS Replay offers top-tier vocal effects that effortlessly complement any genre and performance, ranging from subtle vocal correction to precise pitch tuning.
Automating your effects is effortless with the PAD MOTION function or by simply holding the desired position using TOUCH HOLD mode. Furthermore, the FX Release function ensures smooth transitions, seamlessly integrating your effects into your musical composition.
With a dedicated MIC Input, KAOSS Replay simplifies the process of playing, performing your tracks, and engaging in improvisation with creative sound effects like never before.
Beyond Effects
Featuring 16 high quality velocity-sensitive pads, KAOSS Replay simplifies and streamlines the process of playing, sampling, or re-sampling. It accommodates up to 128 slots divided across 8 banks per project, with support for up to 100 projects, conveniently storable on a microSD card for effortless storage and instant swapping.
Enhanced by a dual group assign system and dedicated faders, along with BPM detection, sync, and quantization capabilities, KAOSS Replay offers a comprehensive toolkit for a seamless performance experience.
What's more, the onboard sample trimming functionality, coupled with the 12-point Hot Cue triggering system, enables samples to be truly “played” musically and creatively during live performances, opening up a world of dynamic possibilities.
"Introducing a ripple of both past and present. The e25 Remix Edition is a limited run of silver-faced Digitakt, Digitone, and Syntakt machines; a time hack to disorientate, reorientate, and deliver you to bliss. Inspired by yesteryear, these boxes are hell-bent on pulling your sounds through the veil of possibility and into reality. In recognition of a quarter century of Elektron existence, and to celebrate everyone we’ve met along the way, we have included a number of special additions to accompany this extra-special edition."
Introducing a time hack to disorientate, reorientate, and deliver you to bliss. In recognition of a quarter century of existence, we have dreamt up the e25 Remix Edition: a limited run of silver-faced units, spread across Digitakt, Digitone, and Syntakt. Inspired by yesteryear, and hell-bent on pulling your sounds through the veil of possibility and into reality.
The e25 Remix Editions don't just come with special versions of already unique music-making machines. We have included a number of other special additions to accompany your extra-special edition.
The instruments themselves are hand-built in stainless steel, individually numbered and bearing laser-etched logos. The box too is unique in its design and build, containing e25 poster versions, and a multiple decade-covering/greatest hits sticker sheet. And the e-shaped cherry on top is a special Remix Edition cassette tape featuring an hour of original and eclectic music from the Elektron Team.
Released in 2017, Digitakt splashed down as a compact sampling drum machine capable of summoning monstrous beats or delicately layered sample-scapes, breaking your creative boundaries wide open. Since then, we have added a succession of new and exciting features to its repertoire, making it even more super-powered year after year.
Digitone followed on the heels of its sibling in 2018, continuing the Digi line with its innovative and accessible take on FM synthesis, and as a prime source of new sounds and timbres. With it, you can create rich and enchanting tones with ease, diving from jagged chaos to mellow sonic suppleness, seemingly emanating from a parallel universe. Regular creativity and performance-focused feature additions have continued Digitone's sonic trajectory.
Coming in 2022, Syntakt may be the youngest of the three but it’s jam-packed with possibilities and loaded with powerful sound-exploring tools. Analog and Digital synthesis. Drum and melody. They're here in full fusion. Syntakt’s various percussive and melodic machines make for an adventurous playground, and even though it’s only been out a little over a year, more machines have already arrived. And more will follow.
All instruments have been handcrafted in stainless steel here in Sverige. The faceplates have been brushed to give them their own unique finish, with no two units identical in appearance, while the logo and limited edition number on the front panel are laser-etched. Each box is adorned with silver foil highlights, created with vintage machinery in the very capable hands of local printers.
We also have a specially produced T-shirt to clothe yourselves in e25 Remix Edition goodness. It’s limited numbers for a limited edition. And available exclusively from our webshop."
"Albers is a 4 oscillator drone synth capable of a wide range of sounds. This video is a demonstration of Albers on it's own without any other gear. More videos to follow demonstrating using Albers with external equipment.
"recent year I've been lazily developing a portable synth+sampler+looper
now it is:
- 4 loopers
- send/return fx
- ∞ instruments
- usb midi in
- line in / line out
- mic
- 12 touch pads
- 128x32 oled
- 5h battery
- wifi file sync
"A demonstration of map01/12/21, an electronic musical instrument that focuses on random, chaotic, and gestural interconnections between its constituent structures. map01/12/21 has been succeeded by map02/21, which offers nearly identical functionality; this video serves as an archival demonstration of the older prototype.
map01/12/21 combines three modules: the map01 Delta Scan Mapping Interface (a chaotic audio generator), the map12 Windowed Temporal Drag Processor (a dynamically re-writable audio buffer), and map21 Multiple Vector Source + Translation Matrix (a MIDI controller that combines two joysticks, sixteen random number generators, a timing generator, and a data routing matrix). map01 and map12 have been abandoned in favor of the newer map02 Delta Scan Mapping Interface + Windowed Temporal Drag Processor, which combines their functionality into a single device.
This improvisational demonstration highlights many of the unique possibilities of each of its constituent parts; ranging from blasts of noise to whistling tones, stuttered repeats, aliasing, goofy computer-generated bleeps, and gesturally-controlled chaos."
"The PRIBOR 32 @priborpedals is a very rare and small-circulation synthesizer. It was created by engineer Vladimir Kabanov. The project was launched about three years ago and then about 10 synthesizers were created.
Then the project was stopped for about a year or two. But at the numerous requests of those who wished, including me, pre-order and production of about ten more devices were opened again. Engineer Kabanov improved and reworked the synth and so his second version appeared. On these joys, I created this video for engineer Kabanov when I received my PRIBOR 32. Thank you for responding and doing this!!!"
Pribor 32 Drone Machine explanation film
video upload by kevadetheatre
Click CC in the bottom player controls for subtitles.
"Pribor 32 Drone Machine explanation film by Pribor engineer V. Kabanov aka Pinacoid
Filmed at Dostoevsky Museum, St-Petersburg.
Camera, sound and editing - S. Knyazev aka D.N.O."
"Introducing the Modwave mkII! With unparalleled polyphony, hugely upgraded LFOs, and more."
Details follow.
"Synthesis powerhouse with distinctive wavetable timbres, Kaoss Physics, and Motion Sequencing 2.0.
Introducing modwave mkII - now with almost double the polyphony, expanded free-running LFOs, and more!
In 1985, KORG's DW-8000 combined digital wavetables with rich analog filters to give users sounds which were impossible to create with analog oscillators. It's still a cult favorite today.
modwave builds on the DW legacy and transforms it into a modern monster synth, featuring incredibly deep wavetable oscillators, gorgeous filters, wildly flexible modulation, unmatched polyphony, comprehensive pattern sequencing, and immediately satisfying hands-on control to deliver unique, powerful, and easily customizable sounds and phrases.
modwave also introduces two unique new tools for creating dynamic motion: Kaoss Physics and Motion Sequencing 2.0. Kaoss Physics combines an x/y Kaoss pad with modulatable game physics to create a responsive, interactive controller that is—besides being powerful— a lot of fun to explore. Motion Sequencing 2.0 brings the organic, continuously evolving patterns of the wavestate's Wave Sequencing 2.0 into the world of motion sequencing, including multiple lanes and real-time recording to help you create complex and evolving phrases that other step sequencers cannot.
Like Wave Sequencing 2.0 (wavestate) and altered FM (opsix), modwave’s evolved wavetable synthesis delivers its own brand of completely unique sounds and a knob-per-function layout that makes customizing those sounds fast and easy. There are hundreds of preset sounds empowered by this new architecture, organized by front-panel category buttons, and all instantly customizable via the four Mod Knobs. modwave's distinctive wavetable timbres start with aggressive basses & leads, and lush ambient pads which will add a new dimension to your tracks. But that is just the beginning.
Those who want to dig deeper will find an endless source of discovery; with the modwave’s unique synth architecture, you'll be finding new things for a long, long time. Save as many of your sounds as you like; there's room for thousands more. You can also load your own samples, import wavetables in standard formats, and create your own wavetables using the free WaveEdit software.
The new modwave mkII provides an astonishing 60 voices of polyphony - almost double the original modwave's 32, and an unprecedented number for a wavetable synth at any price. Responding to user requests, we've updated all LFOs with options for free running, delayed start, and retriggering. We've also added a pre/post switch for reverb sends, new modulation sources, and more."
The Lofi-12 XT is an advanced model of the Liven Lofi-12, newly developed based on hardware of the SmplTrek. The Lofi-12 XT inherits the retro sampling engine of the Liven Lofi-12 but is redesigned and redeveloped as an even more user-friendly and fun Lo-fi Groovebox Sampler.
Please support this project on Kickstarter.
Rewards: Super Early Bird (Only 100 units): under $379 [save $120+] Early Bird (The first 5 days): under $399 [save $100+] Kickstarter Price (Special price): $429 [save $70+]
- Limited Retro Color - Super Early Bird (Only 100 units): under $399 [save $160+] Early Bird (The first 5 days): under $429 [save $130+]
J. Rocc joined us in The Dungeon to cook up something special using sounds that can only be found as part of the collaboration - and to unveil that custom metallic faceplate for the first time.
This one-of-a-kind Roland SP-404MKII comes equipped with pre-loaded music by Stones Throw artists J. Rocc, Sudan Archives, Mndsgn, Kiefer, and DJ Harrison - 16 patterns and 16 samples in each bank. A collectable 7-inch and cassette mixtape are also included."
Press release follows:
Special Collector’s Version of the SP-404MKII Sampler with Custom Panel Artwork, Exclusive Sample Banks, and New Music Created by the Stones Throw Records’ Roster
Los Angeles, CA, Oct. 19 — Roland announces the SP-404MKII Stones Throw Limited Edition, an exclusive version of the world’s favorite portable sampler. Co-curated with Stones Throw Records, this unique SP model collaboration is more than just a tool—it’s a work of art. Featuring a high-shine aluminum faceplate with custom artwork, new sound banks crafted by the label’s roster, and a collector’s package with a seven-inch vinyl record and mixtape, the SP-404MKII Stones Throw Limited Edition celebrates the creative spirit of independent music artists everywhere.
Founded by producer and DJ Peanut Butter Wolf in 1996, Stones Throw Records has built an indie music empire by supporting diverse, cutting-edge artists and spreading the word through vinyl, merch, and events. Touchstone releases include albums by Madvillain, J Dilla, Madlib, NxWorries, Knxwledge, Sudan Archives, Mayer Hawthorne, Dâm-Funk, and Aloe Blacc, all widely considered modern musical masterpieces.
Stones Throw and its artists helped create the blueprint for contemporary independent music culture, and the label’s massive influence was spotlighted in the 2014 feature-length documentary Our Vinyl Weighs a Ton. Roland SP instruments have been key creative catalysts for the label's roster and fans, who continue to unlock new musical frontiers using the portable samplers’ fluid workflow and go-everywhere design.
The SP-404MKII Stones Throw Limited Edition includes ten full banks of brand-new samples and patterns from Kiefer, Sudan Archives, Mndsgn, J.Rocc, and DJ Harrison. This special model also features a custom Stones Throw aluminum faceplate and special packaging designed by Jeff Jank, the legendary art director and illustrator behind the label’s most quintessential releases.
The SP-404MKII Stones Throw Limited Edition comes with additional collector’s content that’s not available anywhere else. There’s a seven-inch vinyl record with two certified burners from Kiefer and Mndsgn—constructed using their custom SP sound banks—plus a cassette mixtape by DJ icon J.Rocc with an exclusive 30-minute remix of music from the SP-404MKII x Stones Throw artists.
About the SP-404MKII Roland SP samplers are the bona fide kings of performance-based beatmaking, with deep features and portable designs that fuel the engines of creators on the move. The SP-404MKII is the latest generation model in the long-running series, delivering ultimate performance with the latest tech advancements and updates inspired by the global SP community. Key features include a vivid OLED display, 17 velocity-sensitive RGB pads, extensive onboard effects, versatile power options, and more.
"After a lot of prototyping, we're finally happy with the circuit, and here are its first sounds! :) We've opened preorders at https://phonicbloom.com/ [priced at €175 +VAT] and manufacturing will commence shortly, our favourite PCB factory is happy with the blueprints and all components are in stock. If you are interested in technical details and the development journey, check https://loopstyler.com/.
This demo shows a very basic configuration: 4 samples across 4 rows of pads, sharing the same octave and mode. After activating the arpeggiator, you can change key, octave, mode, or instrument that the arpeggiator controls. We also hear complaints about incorrectly entered command sequence; this prototype lacks texts on some pads, and LED lights are not yet showing cues about what is going on, which makes it harder to control. An annotated video explaining these controls in detail, will be recorded once the first production unit arrives from the factory."
"The Loopstyler is a powerful pocket synthesizer capable of running multiple sound engines and effects at once. It can handle a large amount of samples on the SD card, limited only by the card capacity. Browse and organize them easily to be used in patches, play them back with at least 32‑voices polyphony, smooth time stretching and pitch shifting.
You can play the Loopstyler in different ways: like the classic Stylophone, or in a tape loop emulation mode, or by programming it using the multitrack sequencer. Apart from the sampled sounds, it runs other sound engines, such as FM, Karplus‑Strong, granular and subtractive synthesis. The usual suite of effects can be applied per voice or globally. A single microphone and monophonic line input allow for sampling possibilities (you can import stereo samples easily via the SD card).
Designed to fit snugly in your pocket, Loopstyler is the source of endless hours of fun anywhere you go. And of course, everything you play can be recorded internally, so nothing is lost."
"Enjoy this sound demo video showcasing sounds available in the new Yamaha MONTAGE M Series Synthesizers.
0:00 - 0:36 : AN-X Syn Orch Pat - AN-X Poly Synth with Polyphonic Aftertouch
0:37 - 1:00 : Hamburg Grand - AWM 2 Concert Grand Piano
1:01 - 1:19 : Sweet Synths - AN-X Poly Synth
1:20 - 1:48 : RD 67 Smooth - AWM2 1967 Tines E. Piano
1:49 - 2:10 : Classic Mini Sawlead - AN-X Mono Lead
2:11 - 2:35 C7 + Analog String Ensemb - AWM2 Yamaha C7 Grand Piano + AN-X String Ensemble
2:36 - 2:55 : Poly Dreams - AN-X Poly Synth
2:56 - 3:10 : SFZ Tremolo BPM Sync - AWM2 Tremolo Strings
3:11 - 3:49 : Distant Memories - AN-X Poly Synth
3:50 - 4:11 : Drawbar Organ - AWM2 Organ with YC Series VCM Rotary Speaker effect
4:12 - 4:29 : FM Piano + Soft Pad - FM-X E.Piano + Soft Pad
4:30 - 4:45 : Synthpop Forever - AN-X Poly Synth
4:46 - 5:05 : U1 Upright - AWM2 Yamaha U1 Upright Piano
5:06 - 5:31 : Dum Drum Bass - FM-X + AWM2 Poly Synth
Yamaha presents our next-generation flagship Synthesizer: MONTAGE M. Featuring three engines that create a variety of sounds – ultra-realistic instruments, vintage analog synths, and cutting-edge FM synths. For keyboardists, synthesists, and pianists, MONTAGE M seamlessly bridges stage and studio, unlocking new possibilities for sound, control and workflow."
NEW AN-X ENGINE
A revolution in authentic analog sound, control and behavior, the AN-X engine recreates the warm, classic sound of an analog synthesizer with a host of sophisticated modulation options.
･Three Oscillators with 5 waveforms (Saw 1, Saw2, Triangle, Square and Sine) and Noise Generator
･Two filters with 10 filter types
･Pulse width modulation
･Oscillator Self Sync
･Ring modulation, FM, and wave shaper
･Amp EG with drive
･LFO for both amplitude and filter,
･Voltage drift and aging settings to simulate vintage synth behavior
Integrated into the Motion Control system, the AN-X Engine allows you to create expressive, unique analog sounds to your heart’s content.
Improved AWM2 Experience realism and detail with MONTAGE M’s improved AWM2. Offering an incredible 128 Elements per part, AWM2 allows for smoother transitions, giving you an expansive canvas for ultra-high-definition sound creation, especially for “nameable” sounds such as piano and strings.
400 NOTE TOTAL POLYPHONY A significant upgrade from the original MONTAGE’s 256 notes, MONTAGE M offers up to 400 notes of polyphony across its three engines:
･128 notes for AWM2 Preset Waveform Parts
･128 notes for AWM2 User Waveform Parts
･128 notes for FM-X Parts
･16 notes for AN-X Parts
And more about sound AND MORE [PRESET WAVE AND FLASH MEMORY UPGRADE] MONTAGE M offers twice the memory over its predecessor with an increase from 5.67GB to 9.97GB of Preset Wave memory, and an increase from 1.75 to 3.8GB of User flash memory. Plus, you’ll find a host of new sounds and instruments, including pianos, orchestral instruments, drums, and more!
[FM-X] MONTAGE M rekindles the Yamaha legacy of expressive and dynamic FM Synthesis with its 8-operator FM-X engine, offering a wide variety of diverse tones: from crisp and bell-like, to edgy and aggressive, to mellow and evolving. This is an excellent complement to the AWM2 and AN-X engines.
[VCM ROTARY AND DRAWBAR BEHAVIOR] Using sophisticated modeling technology, the VCM Rotary Speaker effect simulates the rich and enveloping motion of a classic rotary speaker cabinet. Plus, the new organ drawbar fader setting simulates the vintage “pull out” drawbar organ behavior.
[16 LIBRARY LOCATIONS] With 16 Library slots at your disposal, you can house up to 10,240 additional Performances (that’s in addition to the over 2,700 performances in the presets), facilitating quick searches by Category, Name and Attributes.
[PURE ANALOG CIRCUIT 2] The upgraded Pure Analog Circuit included in MONTAGE M reduces noise and improves the dynamic range, crosstalk, low-frequency phase, and distortion rate, resulting in clearer sound at all volumes. You’ll also find the sound has more detailed low-mids and presence.
GEX ACTION WITH POLYPHONIC AFTERTOUCH (MONTAGE M8x ONLY) Available exclusively on MONTAGE M8x, GEX Action elevates your performance and sound creation with Polyphonic Aftertouch – a revered synth control found in the legendary CS-80 and DX1. Polyphonic Aftertouch allows you to individual modulate held notes with pressure. GEX also provides key repetition behavior typically found in grand pianos.
NEW PERFORMANCE CONTROLS MONTAGE M introduces new performance controls: a 5-segment ribbon controller with dedicated HOLD button, a new KEYBOARD HOLD button for sustaining chords while using knobs to edit, and a Portamento on/off button and dedicated Portamento time knob.
DEDICATED KEYBOARD, PART AND SCENE CONTROL You’ll find dedicated Keyboard, Part and Scene Control buttons to control 16 Parts per Performance. This intuitive control, particularly beneficial for live performances, improves overall usability and adds dimension to each Performance.
AND MORE [HIGH-RESOLUTION CONTROL] All the Performance Controls – from the Keyboard and Faders to the Super Knob and Sustain, as well as the Sound Engine, are now in High Resolution. Because of the fine resolution, you’ll find the MONTAGE M behaves in a smoother and more “analog” way.
[MOTION CONTROL SYNTHESIS ENGINE]This groundbreaking engine allows you to interact with sounds in a variety of ways, including Motion Sequences, which dynamically automate synth and effect parameters, and can even be synchronized to tempo; the Super Knob, which controls dozens of modulations in a single gesture; the Envelope Follower, which modulates sound from the A/D input or another Part; and many, many more ways!
[NEW AND IMPROVED LED LIGHTS AND COLORS] Enhanced LED lights and colors on MONTAGE M faders, Performance, Live Set and Category Search offer visible, instant feedback, vastly improving the user interface.
WORKFLOW
Expanded Creativity
EXPANDED SOFTSYNTH PLUGIN (E.S.P.) (COMING EARLY 2024)
A game-changer for musicians, the Expanded Softsynth Plugin (E.S.P.) replicates the MONTAGE M in your favorite Digital Workstation (DAW). Free for all registered MONTAGE M owners, E.S.P. allows you to create, edit and mix MONTAGE M Performances anywhere you happen to be – without the hardware – offering an unprecedented level of stage and studio integration. We are planning on releasing E.S.P. in Early 2024. The first version will have all the MONTAGE M sound while being limited to basic editing. The full version will be available in Summer 2024.
FASTER, MORE INTUITIVE NAVIGATION
Upgraded navigation enables quick, intuitive sound editing and operation. You’ll find features like a new 512 x 64 LCD screen, 6 touchscreen display knobs, and a PAGE JUMP button that moves what’s in the LCD screen over to the larger 7” TFT Color touchscreen for deeper editing. And the dedicated Navigation button shows an overview of a Performance. Just touch a graphical object in the screen to jump to that parameter for deeper editing. The dedicated Navigation button allows you go directly from the “surface” of a sound to the deepest part.
USB MIDI AND MULTICHANNEL AUDIO INTERFACE
Simplifying your studio setup, MONTAGE M offers a USB MIDI and multichannel 32 output/6 input audio interface. Streamline MIDI recording, virtual instrument monitoring, and multi-track audio recording through a single USB cable, so you can spend more time being creative.
AND MORE
[FASTER UI] MONTAGE M’s UI is significantly speedier than the previous generation. Plus, the overall look is cleaner and easier to see.
[CATEGORY SEARCH] Search for Performances by Category (Piano, Keyboard, etc.), Sub Category (Acoustic, Vintage, etc.),Name, and Attributes (AWM2, FM-X, AN-X, etc.).
[TWO USB-TO-DEVICE PORTS] Allows simultaneous connection of a flash drive (or drives!) and USB MIDI controllers.
[DEDICATED DAW REMOTE BUTTON] Use your MONTAGE M as a hardware controller for DAWs such as Cubase, Logic, ProTools and Live. Control the mixer, transport, softsynth plugins and more.
[NEW SHIFT BUTTONS] Two new Shift buttons make it effortless to access secondary functions, increasing overall functionality.
[COLOR-CODED BUTTONS and SLIDER LAMPS] Backlit LIVE SET and CATEGORY buttons are colored differently and clearly show mode function. New slider lamps show red LED value increments, while active Parts are illuminated in blue.
"MIDIPLUS Wind 2 is probably the most bare-bones wind synth on the market. 10 simple sounds, no pitch-bend or expression... first impression is a tough one. But I'd be lying if I said it didn't grow on me over time. Breath-controlled velocity is clutch. It's been a pleasure to have around, no bigger than a tin whistle, easy to keep in a bag and pull out at a jam.
While it's certainly not for everyone, it's pretty cool to have a wind synth at this price. Sort of the r/CheapKeys of wind synthesizers. And with Bluetooth MIDI, it could control any tone you want. Pretty cool little thing.
I knew it had some real potential when I started putting it through effects. It's rare I turn my effects to 100% wet, but with an instrument such as this, a pure tone can really let your effects shine.
In this video I put the Wind 2 through a few effects:
0:00 Clean Tone
0:40 Eventide Blackhole
1:23 Arturia Delay Tape-201
2:21 Arturia Tape Mello-Fi
3:10 Eventide ShimmerVerb
4:15 Arturia EFX Fragments
5:15 Eventide Physion MkII"
Details on each follow. Check with the dealers on the right for availability.
TABLE-TOP MIDI STRING SYNTH POD ANNOUNCED
Inspired by the early vintage synths of the ‘70s such as the Elka Rhapsody and ARP Solina, the Soleil POD is a tiny low-cost Lo-Fi MIDI String Synth table-top box.
Capable of playing 4 paraphonic notes with 2 oscillator ranks per note. Waveforms are continuously variable from thick sawtooth thru variable pulse widths for more reedy sounds. The second rank is detunable for lush pads and honky-tonk riffs.
The Soleil contains built-in modulation / vibrato LFO, the depth of which can be controlled by MIDI. Attack and release envelope times are individually adjustable and share a single VCA making this a “paraphonic” instrument. A gate output jack allows convenient triggering of external effects and synth equipment, and its state is displayed by an LED.
MIDI is input via a 3.5mm TRS Type “A” jack, and responds to keyboard running status as well as pitch bend and modulation. An LED MIDI displays MIDI activity.
MIDI channel defaults to channel 1 but can be easily reset to other channels using a unique sequence from your controller keyboard at power-up, which is retained in non- volatile memory.
A fine tune control allows accurate tuning to other instruments, and an output volume control is provided. MIDI, Gate Out and Audio Out are standard 3.5mm (1/8”) jacks.
Power is supplied from a user provided +8 to +18 VDC 2.1mm coaxial jack, center positive power source, and draws extremely low current.
Quality, solder masked, fiberglass-epoxy printed circuit boards and meticulous hand- crafted assembly assure years of trouble-free service.
Synthetic Sound Labs has been in the analog synthesizer business since 1973. The Soleil Pod is the newest in SSL’s continuing line of outstanding analog synthesizer devices.
Pricing is $179.95 US and is available off-the-shelf from SSL and Distributors Worldwide.
UPDATED LFO MODULE ANNOUNCED
Just over 10 years after the release of its popular original 2260 Modulation Orgy LFO, Synthetic Sound Labs have recently released an updated and improved version.
The new 2261 Modulation Orgy has completely reimagined firmware that includes improvements such as waveform morphing and random wave slew. The new module width is now only 8 HP (half the width of its 16 HP predecessor) and is available with either black or silver faced panels.
DETAILS
The 2261 Modulation Orgy is a unique Low Frequency Oscillator (LFO) that offers unmatched modulation flexibility. It features both manual and external voltage control over LFO Tempo (speed), tempo Multiplier, Waveform and Waveform Distortion.
Eight Waveforms are produced, including Sawtooth, Ramp, Rectangle, Triangle, Sine, Sweep, Lumps and Random with morphing between adjacent waves. Waveforms may be further modified using the Wave Distort controls.
A front panel button or external Sync input allow synchronization to precise multiples of the musical beat permitting timed vibratos, tremolos, and clocking of external sequencers and sample & hold type devices. Multiple 2261s may also be cascaded to provide complex polyrhythmic modulation patterns, which is aided by use of the Clock output jack. The Clock output also serves as a powerful input clock multiplier.
In conjunction with the Multiplier controls, LFO Tempo (frequency) is adjustable from approximately 0.1Hz to about 50Hz in six overlapping tempo ranges.
The external Level CV input responds linearly and is normalled internally to +5V so that with no input, the 2261 outputs are at maximum. This convenient input can frequently save a separate VCA when doing voltage-controlled modulation depth.
A panel LED / push button shows the LFO output rate. Knobs are conveniently placed and top quality 1/8” jacks permit smooth, effortless patching.
Quality, solder masked, fiberglass-epoxy printed circuit boards and meticulous hand- crafted assembly assure years of trouble-free service.
Synthetic Sound Labs has been in the analog synthesizer business since 1973. The 2261 is the newest in SSL’s continuing line of outstanding analog synthesizer modules.
Pricing is $250 US and is available off-the-shelf from SSL and Distributors Worldwide. Silver panel – Model 2261S. Black panel – Model 2261B
Playlist:
DONNER MEDO I Harness the Magic of Notes, Unleash Creativity at Your Fingertips I Donner Spotlight
Let`s discover the Donner MEDO I Donner Music I MEDO synthesizer
MEDO-tutorial
MEDO LOOP
Donner MEDO: Unboxing & Demonstration
Donner MEDO Demonstration: Sample
The $169 Portable Integrated Synth, Sampler, Looper, and MIDI Controller Launches on Kickstarter on October 5th.
[Los Angeles, CA, October 5, 2023] - Donner, the Chinese musical instrument manufacturer, is launching a Kickstarter campaign today for its latest creation, MEDO, priced at $169, exclusively available on Kickstarter from October 5th to November 10th. MEDO is a compact, portable, standalone musical instrument that seamlessly combines a sampler, synthesizer, looper, MIDI controller, and a speaker, enabling anyone to capture inspiration and create music instantly.
Equipped with a built-in microphone and a robust sound engine, MEDO can record up to 5 seconds of audio, allowing for quick sound sampling and the initiation of a creative journey. Users can easily switch between various modes, including SCALE, DRUM, BASS, CHORD, and LEAD, to begin making music immediately. Supporting 128-bar loop recording, MEDO offers a broader spectrum of possibilities for music creation, catering to both beginners and professional musicians alike. The quantize feature ensures that your performance is automatically synchronized perfectly to the beat, taking care of all the timing intricacies.
With the MEDO Synth app by Donner, users can swiftly toggle between various preset sounds, including 15 sets of drum kit sounds by Loopmasters, and benefit from a powerful sound engine that combines subtractive synthesis and authentic samples. It's not just a synthesizer; it's a pocket-sized beat-making powerhouse.
MEDO is both compact and lightweight, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor creative sessions, allowing you to unleash your musical creativity at any time and in any place. Furthermore, MEDO can be seamlessly connected to common DAW software and hardware, providing advanced music production tools and gameplay options. It is compatible with most MIDI applications and all major digital audio workstation software that supports MIDI.
The MEDO Kickstarter campaign opens to backers on October 5th at 9 a.m. Eastern Time, with an early bird pricing of $149 (available only on October 5th). The campaign will run until November 10, 2023, offering Kickstarter backers a discounted price of $169.
With MEDO, Donner will also exhibit at the 2023 Music China, taking place in Shanghai, China. To experience MEDO, visit the Donner booth # W5C52 and Tech+ Music Lab in the Shanghai New International Expo Center from October 11-14. For more information, please visit: Donnermusic.com"
