New line of ultra-versatile MIDI problem solvers offering support for 0 to 2 computers simultaneously, plus built-in MIDI merging, filtering, remapping, and routing
The mio™ Advanced MIDI interfaces are here! It’s a new line of MIDI problem-solvers from iConnectivity. Just plug in to connect and collaborate, in the studio or on stage. These are reinvented MIDI interfaces that work standalone or with up to six Macs/PCs at the same time.
They all feature built-in MIDI merging, filtering, remapping, and routing functions so you don’t need extra hardware units. mio10 has 10x10 5-pin MIDI, the mio4 has 4x4, and both support everything: USB MIDI, Ethernet MIDI, and more.
The affordable mio2 (2x2 5-pin MIDI) supports two Macs/PCs at the same time.
iConnectivity now has a comprehensive line of innovative MIDI and audio interfaces to handle modern setups of all sizes.
The mio™ line handles everything from essential up to extreme MIDI setups, in the studio and on stage. They're all USB MIDI Class-Compliant, so they plug-'n-play - no drivers become outdated, and other musicians only have to plug in to collaborate.
Famed musician/sound designer/MIDI wizard Richard Devine has been working with a pre-production unit: "iConnectivity's new mio10 is the dream MIDI system I've been waiting for! Its routing system is very flexible, and it's a breeze to use. Absolute class all the way. The Rolls Royce of MIDI interfaces!"
"A mobile MIDI + audio interface that lets you play your iPhone/iPad using any keyboard.
The plugKEY is a portable MIDI + audio interface that is the answer for those who want to use a keyboard of their own choice to play iOS musical instrument apps or produce music. Simply use the plugKEY to connect a MIDI keyboard to your iPhone/iPad, and start playing. Now you can enjoy using your own keyboard to easily play a stupendous array of musical instrument apps that deliver serious sounds and convenient functions. You can use your iPhone/iPad while charging it. Audio interface functionality with stereo output is also provided, so the plugKEY is an ideal choice for those who want to use musical instruments apps in the studio or on stage.
A keyboard provides a convenient upgrade to the daily musical experiences you enjoy with your apps, and let you perform to the full extent of every app's potential. The plugKEY is your key to a new style of music, brought to you by KORG, the company that continues to provide both musical instrument apps and a wide selection of keyboard instruments from synthesizers to electric pianos."
"The free Blocks 1.2 update delivers major improvements on integrating hardware into your REAKTOR setup for unprecedented synergy. Learn more: http://www.native-instruments.com/rea...
Connect Blocks to your hardware! The REAKTOR Blocks 1.2 update introduces new CV and MIDI connectivity. Calibrate pitch signals for accurate use with external hardware oscillators, use Blocks to convert any signal into gates and triggers, and send pitch, gate, and modulation signals from a Blocks patch to REAKTOR's MIDI out. This free update is free for all registered REAKTOR 6 users."
Berlin, June 8, 2016 – Native Instruments today released the free REAKTOR Blocks 1.2 update. Blocks 1.2 adds major improvements for integrating hardware into REAKTOR-based setups. The update adds three new utilities, as well as introducing a MASCHINE sequencer and a set of eight drum modules designed to recreate the sound of a legendary drum machine. Coinciding with the release is a new series of tutorials demonstrating Blocks integration. The Blocks 1.2 update is available for free via the NI Service Center.
REAKTOR Blocks 1.2 brings several new Blocks to Native Instruments’ rack-style modular framework. The Pitch CV Out Block sends pitch CV and Gate signals to external hardware. Convenient auto-calibration tunes oscillators and calibrates the pitch CV signal sent out of REAKTOR. Calibration can be saved per snapshot. The Gates and Triggers Block generate up to four gates and triggers from incoming signals, allowing users to ping filters, trigger function generators and envelopes, clock sequencers, and much more. The MIDI Out module converts pitch and gate information from any Blocks patch into MIDI signals for controlling external MIDI gear. The module also functions as a four-channel CV to MIDI CC converter. These new devices also expand REAKTOR’s existing OSC capability, allowing users to transform incoming OSC signals into MIDI or CV/gate signals to control their external hardware.
REAKTOR Blocks 1.2 also marks the release of nine new Blocks that add enhanced functionality to MASCHINE and dedicated drum voices to the REAKTOR Blocks framework. The MASCHINE Sequencer Block is an eight-channel trigger sequencer designed to control Blocks patches directly the MASCHINE MK2 controller. The sequencer also features a Euclidean pattern generator that automatically creates new polyrhythmic structures within a sequence. The MASCHINE Sequencer Block is available free in the NI User Library. Niji Drum Blocks are eight drum modules that recreate the sound of a legendary drum machine. Combining these voices with the MASCHINE sequencer allows users to create their own custom drum machines.
Released in conjunction with the Blocks 1.2 update, Owen Vallis of the online education platform Kadenze has created a series of tutorials demonstrating how to integrate a setup – including hardware – with the new Blocks included in the update.
The Blocks 1.2 update is available free via the NI Service Center.
"Ripcord, the 5V to 9V USB cable, works with synths like the Korg Volca, is 78% funded in Kickstarter with 2 days to go
If you haven't seen Ripcord yet have a look at http://kck.st/25CeE4W - it's for powering gear that needs voltages other than 5V from a USB port.
The small-batch version is in use by thousands of musicians all over the world right now, but we've redesigned it from the ground up, with more power and better features..
"I've been lucky enough to get my hands on a prototype that my friend is working on; the Hotchki55 CV.OCD.
A wonderous little box that converts MIDI into control voltage and has a ton of outputs and really cool features.
I'm just starting to explore what this box can do but of course the first thing to do is use my Novation Circuit to control two of my all time favourite synths
In this video the Circuit is sequencing the ARP 2600 (Orangeface from 1979) and the classic Roland SH-101.
The CV.OCD is the perfect compliment to Circuit and I am absolutely delighted that this thing exists..... Its a complete game changer!
CV.OCD is very configurable little box too you can send CV out of 4 outputs and then there are 12 other outputs for gate, trigger, start stop, clock... all kinds of really useful stuff.
There is also a polyphonic CV mode meaning you can use the CVOCD to turn the ARP 2600 into a 3 voice paraphonic synth!!!!!!!! WHAAAATTT!
You might be able to tell but I am very happy about this little box. when it is ready it will be available at: https://www.tindie.com/stores/hotchk155/ with his other superb inventions. Definitely go check it out."
Update:
Novation Circuit Controlling APR 2600 and SH-101 with CV.OCD
"Bastl Instruments introduces a new product at the Moogfest: the bitRanger designed by Peter Edwards a.k.a. Casper Electronics who moved recently to Brno, Czech Republic to join forces with the Bastl crew. The bitRanger brings together the legacy of the previous products debuted at Moogfest the Werkstatt and the Pocket Operator and bridges both realms of these instruments together.
The bitRanger is a patchable analog logic computer which sculpts sonic worlds ranging from data noise to melodic arpeggios. While being a handheld standalone synth it is also right at home in the music studio. Extensive connectivity makes it so flexible that it can connect to almost anything: CV control its unique sound, sync it with drum machines and sequencers or use it as an algorithmic CV / GATE pattern generator.
The patchbay of the bitRanger (in the same style as the Werkstatt) is a place for exploration where you can simply connect outputs to inputs to see what happens. This can be done methodically or with complete experimental abandon. Go nuts! Battery Power and a built in speaker make the bitRanger totally portable. Tweak it's 4 knobs, 8 switches and more than 100 patch points in the woods, on the beach, on a train and in the studio.
There are only 3 places in the world where you can try out the bitRanger: the Moogfest in Durham NC, freshly opened store of Bastl & Casper Detective Squad in Brooklyn NY and original Bastl store Noise Kitchen in Brno Czech Republic. The first limited edition will be available for sale at Moogfest for special price 259 USD.
BitRanger is available at noise.kitchen website for 222 EUR excluding TAX and will be shipping in June."
"The bitRanger is a patchable analog logic computer which sculpts sonic worlds ranging from data noise to melodic arpeggios. While being a handheld standalone synth its extensive connectivity makes so flexible that it can connect to almost anything: CV control its unique sound, sync it with drum machines and sequencers or use it as an algorithmic CV / GATE pattern generator.
The patchbay of the bitRanger is a place for exploration where you can simply connect outputs to inputs to see what happens. This can be done methodically or with complete experimental abandon. Go nuts! Battery Power and a built in speaker make the bitRanger totally portable. Tweak it’s 4 knobs, 8 switches and more than 100 patch points in the woods, on the beach, on a train and in the studio.
FEATURES
LFO clock oscillator for rhytmical modulation
VCO oscillator is synced to the HFO oscillator
4 modes of operation selectable by 2 switches
built in speaker with volume control
9V DC center positive power supply input
9V battery compartment from the bottom
less than 20mA power draw on headphones, less than 60mA with speaker (minimum 20 hours on battery)
On /Off switch
expansion connector
package includes 3 photo resistors – make your oscillators respond to light by plugging these into the Bend socket
PATCHBAY
118 jumper cable patch points
each oscillator has 3 differently slewed CV inputs, sync inputs, rate knob and bend points
Divider Bits section – use clocks at different speed to create patterns
Adventure Bits section adds irregular rhytmical elements
MUX 1 and MUX 2 input sections to modulate data loops and waveforms
stereophonic output from MUX 1 and MUX2 sections
BYTE CV section is R2R DAC converter which takes bits and converts them to CV
DATA modulation section witch a switch adds more flavour
Utility Belt section adds advanced features
Left and Right audio override section
EXTERNAL CONNECTIVITY
3.5mm stereophonic headphone output
Clock Input to sync the LFO oscillator
Clock Output with selectable LFO division (2 or 64)
CV Output from the BYTE DAC section
CV Input for the VCO
CV In and CV Out connectors can be routed to dedicated patch points on the patchbay"
Update: Use this code VLWIZAPRIL for a 15% discount through Sunday May 1! Just for MATRIXSYNTH readers! :)
This one in via The VL-Wizard. A new and I must say, super nice editor, for the Yamaha VL70m and PLGVL cards. It's great to see something like this made available for our older gear.
"General overview on the VL70m-Editor aka VL-Wizard. Interested in trying out this software? Please visit www.VL70m-Editor.com/site.
More will come on setup, voice design etc...
Rudy
The VL-Wizard"
"Let me guess, you own a VL70m or PLGVL and you know it is a unique and expressive piece of synth technology. You feel limited and would love to unlock the full potential of it. Well, I have good news for you, as of now you can bring your VL70m and/or PLGVL cards back alive using the VL-Wizard.
This newly developed software is specially made for these Yamaha wonderful synths. You do not need to be an expert to use this software. You can start with the basic features and gradually dive into the secrets of this expressive VL technology. You can download a DEMO version for free, try it out and ask me any question you have.
What is possible with the VL-Wizard?
As a VL-patch editor it allows you to Load, Store, Modify, Improve, Organise, Copy, Create, Organise, Compare, Share, Dumpout, Study VL-voices. It contains well organised editing screens for the VL-Element (the actual VL-voice), detailed Tuning, Common & Controllers parameters, VL70m effects. These editor screens allow you improve, tweaking VL-patches in real-time and hear immediately the changes you make.
The VL-Wizard allows to control up to 8 VL-units. With a bit of effort you can also take full control over the PLGVL cards in your MOTIF ES, S30--S90, EX5r, MU128, MU1000, MU2000 etc. With a bit of effort you can setup a poly VL configuration or layer multiple VL units resulting in more expression and realism..."
Sounds From The Patch Lab: Semi-Modular Synth Injection
Published on Dec 22, 2015 Boredbrain Music
"A series of musical experiments is performed with the PATCHULATOR 8000 MINI PATCHBAY to route audio and control voltage modulation signals between two semi-modular synthesizers, a drum synth pad, an analog step sequencer, and two analog effects pedals with CV inputs. By simply patching the mini cables, the effects are easily rearranged and modulation signals are routed directly into and out of the outboard gear."
Playing with Control Voltage using the Patchulator 8000
Published on Mar 1, 2016
"Experimenting with a semi modular synthesizer and FX by routing audio and control voltage through the Patchulator 8000 for quick and flexible modulation."
VISIT BOREDBRAINMUSIC.COM TO PURCHASE OR FOR MORE INFO!
http://www.boredbrainmusic.com"
"ABOUT THE PATCHULATOR 8000 8-CHANNEL MINI PATCHBAY:
The Patchulator 8000 8-Channel Mini Patchbay, Boredbrain's solution to pedalboard and desktop instrument signal routing, lets users re-order audio effects easily, swap effects between instruments, and experiment with signal flow. The compact octagonal design houses 16 1/4' jacks on the perimeter and 16 1/8" jacks on top, which allow the patching of 8 independent send/return loops.
OTHER GEAR USED: Moog Mother-32, Arturia MicroBrute, Circuit Bent Boss Dr. Pad, Electro-harmonix 8-Step Sequencer, Moog Moogerfooger MF-102 Ring Modulator, Moog Moogerfooger MF-107 FreqBox, Moog MF-Delay, and Boss BX-40 4-Channel Mixer. Video edited using Reaper 5.
ORIGINAL SOUND EFFECTS: Korg Monotron, Monotron Duo, Monotron Delay, Red Panda Bitmap"
"Ace Tone Rhythm Ace FR-3 midi triggered with full velocity control via Tubbutec UniPulse. UniPulse is an universal midi interface for drum machines."
"uniPulse – universal drum machine midi interface
Main features
Highly customizable, compatible to almost any drum machine
16 pulse outputs
Full velocity sensitivity
5 different pulse shapes
Outputs positive and/or negative pulses up to 12V/-12V
Voltage and length can be mapped to velocity, controller or CV-input
4 Digital outputs for gates and clocks
Up to 21 simultaneous clock outputs with different midi dividers
Analog output with various functions
Potentiometer / CV input to control length or voltage of pulses
Internal clock multiplier for DIN sync
Easy to use configuration app with preset database for common drum machines
Very small, fits in most drum machines
Various midi socket configurations
Runs off a single supply voltage between +15 and +25V, generates negative voltage internally
Some features in more detail
PULSE SHAPES
Various pulse shapes can be selected for each output: Rectangular, Triangular, Decay, Gaussian and Open Rect. The latter is similar to the rectangular pulse, with the exception, that instead of returning to zero volts, it goes into a high impedance state. This allows it to make use of the characteristics of an existing pulse shaping network, such as an RC network built into the drum machine.
The pulse shapes have different sonic characteristics, experimenting which suits best is recommended. The Gaussian pulse for example contains less higher harmonics and can be used to simulate drums hit by a felt headed mallet.pulseshapes
CLOCK AND SYNC GATES
The analogue output and the four digital outputs can be configured to act as sync clocks and gates. This allows it to sync the drum machine to the midi clock. Clock dividers and polarity are adjustable in order to achieve compatibility with all drum machines. Clocks speeds between 48PPQN (din-sync 48) and 1PPQN (one pulse per quarter note) are possible.
By using the 16 pulse outputs, the uniPulse can output up to 21 different clocks simultaneously.tempo-small
CONFIGURATION PROGRAM
The uniPulse configuration program, available for windows and OSX, uses midi sysex to configure the uniPulse. We are constantly working on expanding a database of presets for common drum machines.
For each channel, you can select pulse shapes, polarity, length, midi channels, note numbers and mappings. For sync outputs clock dividers can be chosen.
A velocity sensitive test button an be used to instantly listen and refine your configuration, and thus choose what sounds best for your particular drum machine and taste."
"The MIDI Looper serves as the automated helping hand for the electric piano, synthesizer or accordion player. It helps performing live sessions as well as producing complex melodies.
To play acurately to the beat and to record a perfectly played note sequence is a challenge for beginners but also for professionals. By using the MIDI Looper the musician is able to record MIDI note sequence and quantize note patterns dynamically.
The high polyphony allows complex melodic and tonal variations by parallel processing of MIDI note and controller data
By using an additional foot switch, the musician can entirely concentrate playing the instrument with both hands
Features:
Recording and simultaneous playback of MIDI music notes as well as MIDI Controller data
Visual feedback at recordings and playbacks (display of music notes activities and clock speed)
4 independent operable tracks with individual length (1…64 beats)
Record of up to 1000 music notes and 1000 controller values (maximum 250 music notes + 250 controller values per track)
64 times polyphony
Quantization of note positions during play is adjustable every time (Steps: 1/96, 1/32, 1/24, 1/16, 1/12, 1/8, 1/6, 1/4 beat)
Clock speed is adjustable at every time (60…210bpm)
Output of MIDI Clock via MIDI OUT and USB as MIDI Clock Master (configuration of time base = "internal“)
Can be synchronized to MIDI Clock via MIDI IN and USB as MIDI Clock Slave (configuration of time base = "external MIDI“ or "external USB“)
Controls:
2 multi colored illuminated buttons
2 encoders with push button
optional: foot switch connectable
Connections:
USB (power supply, optional connection to PC)
MIDI input (Processing of: note on / off, Midi Control, Midi Clock)
MIDI output (output of: note on / off, Midi Control, Midi Clock)
3.5mm jack for foot switch
Housing:
Size: approx 121mm x 66mm x 40mm
case powder coated and optional lackered (black, sky blue, purple)"
"For the tinkerers among you, Connection Kit is here: a new Max for Live Pack that makes it simpler than ever before to set up new and experimental ways to extend and interact with Live.
This free collection of Max for Live devices provides instant connection between Live and technologies like Arduino, LEGO® MINDSTORMS® EV3, OSC and much more.
Breakdown of video:
00:02 Drumstick starts playhead, which triggers an LFO that controls a servo using the Arduino device
00:07 Another servo with a pen attached to it is being controlled by parameter changes in a clip
00:11 The golf ball is mapped to the XY pad of the Camera device, which controls the frequency of a filter
00:13 The pendulum swings between a light sensor and a light source, this motion modulates an EQ8
00:22 LFOs in Live are controlling graphics in Processing using OSC
00:25 Input from Leap Motion controls Live using OSC
00:30 The golf ball triggers a MIDI note
00:34 The JSON Video device loops a video snippet, creating a new beat
00:38 Automation in Live controls the motors of the LEGO® MINDSTORMS® EV3 device
00:50 The robot uses a crocodile clip to close a circuit when touching the banana
00:53 A pressure sensitive pad from littleBits™ is triggered by a hammer, causing the music to stop"
"The Video Equations system utilises the power of mathematics to yield rippling lo-fi seas of colour, acid trip roguelikes, glitching fractals, visions of an 80's techno dream and worlds of crashing computer programs, all from a single, beautiful unit.
Equally at home in the studio, lab or on the road this colour video system is ready for take off!"
16 colours, hundreds of characters and symbols
20+ different equation archetypes each with two modifier sliders and a colour depth control for literally millions of unique stable or evolving visuals
colour and character offset knobs for even more control and variation of output
4+ variable size masks, each with an invert function and mask fill options
9v battery or wall wart operation (wall wart not included)
7 X 0-5v CV inputs for modular control of all sliders and knobs
picture mute and equation hold functions for expanded live use
composite NTSC output (PAL users can buy a NTSC to PAL converter to integrate it into their PAL system. There is a cheap one for sale here.) The jack on the synth is BNC but comes with an RCA adapter.
Kit and build options:
Available as a fully built and tested unit or as a DIY kit with all the components (all thru-hole components). Both kit and built unit come with a rugged acrylic and plywood base."
You'll find some screen grabs from the video further below. It appears to be a knob box with custom color LED buttons. Sequencer & more? Note this is the first DASZ INSTRUMENTS post on the site.
Update: this will be a new instrument, not a controller, although it can also function as one.
The video description, as always:
"For over 3 years we have been quietly developing a radically innovative performance instrument. Its focus is to simplify, unify, and broaden your creative workflow, freeing you to focus on your music rather than your setup."
Established in 2012, DASZ INSTRUMENTS INC. is a new electronic music instrument manufacturer, located in Vancouver on the west coast of Canada. We are a dedicated team of veteran audio product developers, electronic musicians, producers, performers, DJ’s; collectively steeped in the music industry.
For over 3 years we have been quietly developing a radically innovative performance instrument. Its focus is to simplify, unify, and broaden your creative workflow, freeing you to focus on your music rather than your setup.
Coming to the Musik Messe 2016. April 7-10. Hall 9 Level 1 Booth C44
Currently seeking funding on Kickstarter, The MIDI Thing is essentially a single MIDI IN/OUT cable with a bluetooth adapter in the middle. You plug in the MIDI IN and OUT ends into your MIDI keyboard or controller of choice and it becomes a Bluetooth MIDI controller. Curious if it will work with MIDI OUT ports only, or do you need to loop it back into a MIDI IN port for any reason? Some keyboards like E-mu's XBoards only have MIDI OUT port. I'll see if I can find out. Here's a demo of it with an iPad:
