New Vixen Mixer for Korg Volca at Knobcon 2017

Published on Sep 10, 2017 Earmonkey Music

"Vixen Mixer from KVgear looks like it could be a winner. 6 mono channels, 2 stereo, sends/returns and it powers up to 8 Volcas or similar devices."

Shipping in mid-Novemeber, will cost slightly more than current Volcas, and will be blue.

Native Instruments Announces New MASCHINE & KOMPLETE KONTROL Hardware

"MASCHINE Mk3 and KOMPLETE KONTROL Mk2 S49 / S61 now available to pre-order

September 7, 2017 – Native Instruments today announces the next generation of MASCHINE and KOMPLETE KONTROL hardware. Unified by an all-new industrial design, both units have been re-engineered to inspire and enable nonstop creativity, boasting more intuitive workflows, optimized layouts, vivid visual feedback, and deeper studio integration.

MASCHINE Mk3 delivers the best ever workflow for quickly sketching and capturing ideas. It adds two high-resolution color screens for easier sound browsing, editing, sample-slicing, and more. The new hardware also features more dedicated function buttons and larger, more responsive pads that retain the same ergonomic layout users know and love. For enhanced convenience and portability, MASCHINE now features a built-in 96kHz / 24-bit audio interface.

KOMPLETE KONTROL Mk2 extends the original keyboard’s workflow with 17 additional function buttons and two high-resolution color screens for browsing, previewing sounds, and more. And now – thanks to enhanced DAW and MASCHINE integration – it’s possible to mix, navigate, and edit projects directly from the hardware. The professional-grade Fatar keybeds and unique Light Guide are joined by new pitch and mod wheels, plus a horizontal touch strip for additional expression.

“We’ve learned from artists and our users that the biggest challenge in creative work isn’t one of getting started, but of keeping going,” explains MASCHINE Product Owner Chris La Pietra. “We developed these new products in tandem to address this problem: Beyond sparking inspiration, they fuel the whole creative process – they help users get in the zone and stay there. They feel great, they integrate with existing setups, and they make music production as fun, intuitive, and hands-on as possible.”
“We set the benchmark for integrated music production software and hardware some years ago, and these latest products signify a major new milestone in our journey,” explains Mate Galic, CTO and President of Native Instruments.
“Holistic, tactile experiences and optimized layouts showcase the most powerful features in a completely intuitive way and support a sustained creative workflow. Sophisticated integration, with an ever-expanding software ecosystem of KOMPLETE, MASCHINE, and NKS plug-ins, make these the most advanced music production hardware units available today.”
Pricing and availability
The new MASCHINE, KOMPLETE KONTROL S49, and KOMPLETE KONTROL S61 will be available at the NI Online Shop and retailers from October 5, 2017. All three units will be available to pre-order from September 7 at the NI Online Shop. Pricing remains the same as the previous versions in all markets.

MASCHINE EUR 599, USD 599, JPY 72800, GBP 479, AUD 899
KOMPLETE KONTROL S49 EUR 599, USD 599, JPY 69800, GBP 479, AUD 899
KOMPLETE KONTROL S61 EUR 699, USD 699, JPY 79800, GBP 559, AUD 1049"

About MASCHINE Mk3
The next generation of MASCHINE hardware lets you effortlessly produce beats, melodies, and harmonies with powerful drum synths, premium sounds, an integrated sampler, and more – cutting-edge software meets intuitive hardware for an ultra-smooth workflow.

Key features
• Integrated hardware/software system includes sampler, arranger, mixer, FX, and more


• 8 GB MASCHINE library with samples, one-shots, sliced loops, sampled instruments, presets, patterns, drum kits, and songs

• Includes 25 GB KOMPLETE 11 SELECT library

• 25 pro-quality studio and creative FX including filter, EQ, delay, reverb, and compressor

• 2 high-resolution RGB color displays for precision sample slicing, sound tweaking, note editing, mixing, browsing, and more

• 16 large, ultra-sensitive pads make two-handed drumming easy

• Pro-grade, 96kHz / 24-bit audio interface with 2 x ¼” TRS line outputs, 2 x ¼” TRS line inputs, ¼” dynamic mic input, stereo headphone output, 1 x MIDI In, 1 x MIDI out, and 1 x Footswitch

• Touch sensitive knobs for parameter tweaking

• Smart Strip for strumming notes, pitch bending sounds, performing with FX, and more

• Four-directional push encoder for browsing, navigating, and adjusting levels and balance

• Powered via USB 2.0 or with the included power supply unit

• Seamless integration with KOMPLETE
• Classic groovebox features including 16 velocity levels, swing, pad link, note repeat, step sequencer, and vintage MPC 60/SP-1200 sampling emulation

• Compatible with all major DAWs (including Ableton Live, Logic Pro, and FL Studio) as a VST or Audio Units plug-in, with full multi-core support


About KOMPLETE KONTROL Mk2
With the latest generation of KOMPLETE KONTROL hardware, music-making becomes a more intuitive, hands-on experience. Perform expressively, browse and preview sounds, tweak parameters, sketch your ideas, and navigate and mix your project – all from one fully integrated centerpiece for studio and stage.

Key features
• Smart keyboard controller for all your virtual instruments

• Pro-grade Fatar keybeds with aftertouch – 49 or 61 semi-weighted keys

• Ergonomic pitch and mod wheels, plus touch strip for expression control

• Pre-mapped control of KOMPLETE instruments and hundreds of Native Kontrol Standard (NKS) instruments from leading manufacturers

• Full VSTi support

• Tag-based preset browsing: Find sounds quickly and hear instant previews

• Two high-res color screens for browsing, tweaking, mixing, and more

• Light Guide: RGB lights above each key highlight drum cells, key switches, chords, scales, and more

• Smart Play: See scales and modes on the Light Guide, play chord progressions and arpeggios with single keys, or map any scale to white keys only

• Deep integration with MASCHINE software / hardware

• Intuitive control over Logic Pro X, Ableton Live, and GarageBand. Cubase and Nuendo integration coming soon after initial release

• 4-directional push encoder for one-handed sound browsing and project navigation

• Two assignable pedal inputs

• MIDI in / out

• USB 2.0 bus powered

• Includes KOMPLETE 11 SELECT
"

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The Conductive Labs NDLR

Published on Sep 4, 2017 Conductive Labs

via the Kickstarter campaign:

"What is The NDLR...

The NDLR is for anybody who loves making music but finds themselves staring at their keyboards not knowing what to play. It is a new MIDI device that defines a new place in your synth studio. It fits between your sequencer and keyboard controllers and your sound modules. It keeps your oscillators busy by playing sequences of notes over several MIDI channels so you can keep your fingers busy tweaking patches and twisting knobs!

The initial idea: multiple synthesizers playing notes and chord changes at the same time, without a computer in the way. The initial idea evolved into playing up to four parts: a drone note, bass line, pad notes, and a motif sequence, simultaneously.

The NDLR can play up to eight synthesizers via MIDI. It can send...

a bass line to one synth.
an arpeggiated sequence to your favorite lead synth.
chord notes of a pad to up to four synthesizers by using interleaved poly-chaining.
a drone note targeting those exotic evolving synths.
a MIDI pass-through from your favorite external sequencer or keyboard controller and it will be automatically transposed from “C” into the current chord notes.
A ring of seven buttons enables playing any chord degree directly. When shifted, the same buttons allow you to pick chord types: triads, 7ths, 9ths, and suspensions, etc. The sonorities of these chords, major, minor, diminished... are automatically selected based on the chord degree and the key and mode chosen.

All the above mentioned technical details melt away while playing The NDLR. But we quickly realized while developing those features that keeping songs fresh with ever changing patterns and chord progressions is vital. The chord degree and chord type can also be selected externally by a sequencer. The notes played by the sequencer become the root notes of the chords that The NDLR plays.

The eight encoder knobs enable you to vary the sequences, rhythms, densities and range of notes. There are also three LFOs and two randomizers that can be assigned in the x8 modulation matrix to any of the parameters of The NDLR or to external MIDI CCs. This ensures that in addition to the motion of your synth patches there can also be an automated chord progression and modulation of The NDLR parameters.

We stuffed all this into one box that's easy to use and fun to play. It's an easy choice for anybody who loves making music and wants to tweak knobs on their otherwise silent synthesizers. So support this Kickstarter project now!"

Duo-Mode for Sub Phatty via Patchblocks

Maikshift Planet
Published on Sep 1, 2017

"This demonstrates it is possible to get the same Duo Mode feature on the Moog Sub Phatty that is normally only available from its bigger brother the Moog SUB37.
I have developed a MIDI patch for a Patchblocks.
You will need...
1 x PatchBlock
2 x MIDI Blocks (or 1 DIY or modified MIDI Block, more info below?)

The patch is available at the forum (http://www.patchblocks.com/forum/2513s) as well as within the patchblocks community library in the editor."

New WaveG Monophonic Analog Synthesizer / Step Sequencer on Kickstarter

via Kickstarter

"The Wave G Synth / Step Sequencer System features:-

A Classic Analog Subtractive Synthesis sound architecture with

Analog signal path starting from it's digitally controlled analog oscillator (DCO) via 5 input Source Mixer (LM348 based)
2 Pole 12dB per Octave State Variable Low Pass VCF (LM13700)
Voltage Controlled Amplifier (LM13700)
5 simultaneous source mixer waveforms – Ramp, Pulse Width Modulation, Noise*, Sub Oscillator and an External Input
*Noise is activated/deactivated when LFO is triggered for more versatility
4 Stage mixed signal Envelope Generator with Attack, Decay, Sustain, Release controls. The envelope generators attack phase does not reset to the beginning when notes are rapidly played, but follows the charge / discharge characteristics of a capacitor
Modulation Generator with Sample and Hold function. LFO with Ramp, Reverse Ramp, Triangle, Sine, Square and Random Waveforms with one shot or continuous activation
MIDI IN, Pitch CV In, Pitch CV Out, Gate In, Gate Out, Filter CV In, VCA CV In ( Synth section)
Note Glide (portamento)
Accent (velocity sensitive) and Glide Control via MIDI
Gate and Multi-trigger control of envelope, high note priority
16 Step Digital Sequencer with Potentiometer Input for fast changes of note and parameter values and 16 way keymatrix for additional functions such as:- Note length, accent, glide, MIDI tempo control etc.
MIDI Out, MIDI Tempo Clock In, Gate In, Gate Out, Pitch CV Out
MIDI Out sends Note Glide and Accent commands
MIDI (Musical Intrument Digital Interface) is via the standard 5 pin DIN socket
Separate Heaphones Output, Line Output and External Instrument Input jacks via 1/4 inch (6.35mm) diameter.
Pitch CV Out, Gate In, Gate Out, Filter CV In, VCA CV In jacks are 3.5mm diameter.
Overdrive circuits located in the VCF, Post VCF and in the final output stages of the output amplifier circuits for added harmonics.
PCB Design

Wave G Monophonic Synthesizer

Printed circuit board version 3 is been used in this synthesizer at the moment. This version works according to design expectations and the production board if the goal is reached, number 4, will be based on this but with a number of minor improvements, such as slight repositioning of the mounting holes and potentiometers and switches - to line up better with the metal enclosure.I've also added a new digital to analog convertor circuit which provides more stable and accurate output voltages for the frequency control voltage output.

Step Sequencer

Version 2 of the PCB board operates within design parameters and the only additional modifications needed will be to the positioning of the controls and adjustment to the number of function LED's.

The Enclosure

The Wave G enclosure has already been designed with computer aided design software and a production prototype has been built, by the manufacturer - and more can be mass produced, when required. It's the unit featured in the demonstration video and enclosed photographs - made from strong mild steel and has a powder coated black and white finish.

Currently we are using a 3D printed plastic case for the sequencer, and that's offered in the reward. A metal enclosure, at the time of writing has not been manufactured but if the project goal is reached, a mild steel case will be manufactured and offered as a reward for a small increase in price.

Power Supply

The buyer of the WaveG/Step Sequencer system will need to purchase or acquire 2 external 12 Volt DC (Direct Current), at least 500mA (milliamp) - 1 ampere power supply adaptor, which are regulated. One for the synthesizer, the other for the sequencer."

WaveG/Step Seq with Roland MC202 and Kawai R50 Digital Drum Machine

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Roland Introduces New SP-404A Linear Wave Sampler

Roland SP-404A & TR-8 Performance
RolandChannel
Published on Aug 8, 2017

"Watch the powerful combination of sampling and rhythm synthesis with the Roland SP-404A and Roland AIRA TR-08 Rhythm Performer in this video.

The Roland SP-404A Linear Wave Sampler can now expand the sounds of the Roland AIRA TR-8 Rhythm Performer (with latest TR-8 update v1.5) for a combination of sample and percussive synthesis.

The SP-404A can be triggered from the TR-8 Rhythm Performer via MIDI for integrated beat and sample production. Users can incorporate samples from the SP-404A and use them in conjunction with drum patterns, and each of the TR-8’s 11 tracks can trigger a sample on the SP-404A, play a TR-8 sound, or both.

In addition, the TR-8 can be used as an audio sub-mixer and processor for the SP-404A. In this configuration, all samples played on the SP-404A can be effected using the TR-8’s Scatter feature to reverse, glitch, gate, truncate, stutter, and perform all types of rhythmic variations in perfect sync. Samples can also be controlled by the TR-8’s per-step Side Chain function for rhythmic ducking and gating effects.

To get users started with sample looping, the SP-404A comes with an SD card loaded with a library of new sounds created by Loopmasters, a leading sample developer. The samples in the library have been designed specifically to complement the TR-8, but also work well in standalone applications."

Details via Roland

"A LEGENDARY SAMPLER MEETS AN ICONIC SEQUENCER
Designed for live use, the SP-404A Linear Wave Sampler expands the sounds of the Roland AIRA TR-8 Rhythm Performer for a powerful combination of sample and percussive synthesis. The fast, hands-on approach of the acclaimed SP-series performance samplers is a perfect fit for the impressive rhythmic effects and iconic step-sequencer of the Roland AIRA TR-8.

All of the functions and features of the popular SP-404SX are contained in the SP-404A, including its distinctive 16-bit linear sampling, 29 onboard DSP effects, smooth FX switching, and 12 professional performance pads. Plus, a new library of sounds curated by sample-industry leader Loopmasters are provided via the included SD card.

Whether used standalone or controlled by the TR-8, the SP-404A makes for an intuitive and inspiring addition to the AIRA range of performance instruments for DJs, musicians, and producers.

Sample anytime, anywhere with the built-in mic and battery power
Can be triggered from the 16-step sequencer in the TR-8 Rhythm Performer (TR-8 system version 1.50 or later required)
AIRA black-and-green color scheme to match existing AIRA hardware
“Sounds by Loopmasters” SD card includes over 100 new stereo samples, effects, and one-shots
29 DSP effects, including filter, delay, unique voice effects, subsonic, looper, and more
Three control knobs, 12 trigger pads, and Sub Pad for rapid-repeat triggering
Seamless effects switching for smooth, perfect performances
Pattern sequencer with quantize mode and shuffle feels
Import audio files from a computer and assign samples to pads with free Mac/Windows software

TR Sequencer Meets SP-Style Sampling

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Controlling a Moog Workstatt w/ Audio to CV Arduino from Nunomo

Published on Jul 12, 2017 Nunomo LLC


Playlist:
1. Arduino : External Signal Processor shield demo with Moog Werkstatt

2. Control Moog Werkstatt by iPad : Waveshape analyzer demo - "I switched platform from Arduino to STM32(Nucleo) to get extra power. In result trucking and pitch accuracy becomes much better!"

3. Control Analog synthesizer by iPad : Waveshape analyzer demo 2 - "This demo shows Pulse width recognition.

This module recognizes pitch of the audio signal, gate and pulse width and convert it to CV. In this demo, I use Moog Werkstatt but it can control most of modular synthesizers.

I use GRAIN pedal to get orverdrive sound, and added reverb in Ableton Live."

https://shop.nunomo.com/

FoAM midimutant Yamaha DX Programmer in Collaboration with Aphex Twin

Published on Jul 2, 2017 Dave Griffiths

via FoAM

"Made in collaboration with Aphex Twin, the midimutant learns how to program your DX7 synth so you don't have to.

Equipped only with a microphone input and midi output, the midimutant runs on a Raspberry Pi and uses artificial evolution to grow new sounds on hardware synthesisers that mimic an example sound you provide.

Coming soon: Source code and instructions on how to build your own.

How it works: Every sound in a population of initially random patches is sent and auditioned via sysex midi messages, sampled and checked for similarity using MFCC analysis. The best patches are chosen to form the next generation using the sysex patch data as genetic material, converging (most of the time) on similar sounds. Unlike a neural network or machine learning algorithms, the artificial evolution does not need to model the underlying parameter space - i.e. how the synth internally functions to create sound. Midimutant can therefore be used on any synthesiser with a documented sysex dump format.

Some conceptual background can be found in this paper (although the midimutant is a more naive and freeform approach to the same problem):

Andrew Horner, James Beauchamp, and Lippold Haken, "Machine Tongues XVI:
Genetic Algorithms and their Application to FM Matching Synthesis,"
Computer Music Journal, 17:4, pp. 17-29, Winter 1993."

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Dax & Winston (D&W) Groove Engine: MIDI-CV Step Sequencer-Arranger

Published on Jul 12, 2017 Pier Mayhem

"MIDI + Control Voltage Step Sequencer / Arranger, 16 channel output, Per step CC Automation and more

Bring all of your gear together. The groove engine's purpose is to provide a standalone production platform for live-stream and live venue performers. Ideal for breaking from the virtual mindset of computers, sub menus and limitations of on-board sequencers on samplers and synths. All parameters right at your finger tips for when you just want to write music without menu diving, using all the gear you've paid your money for. User feedback and feature suggestions are encouraged!

The First Firmware test on a Standalone Board (early prototype):

MIDI / CV Sequencer Prototype test

Published on Oct 7, 2016 Pier Mayhem

The D&W Groove Engine is currently seeking funding on Indiegogo.

"What does the Funding cover:
Equipment:
Rework / Soldering station.
CNC Router / Aluminum Milling machine.
Stock
Controllers, Programmers and ICs.
Analog Components.
Aluminum plates.
Endmills.
Development:
PCB layout.
PCB Print outsourcing.
Prototyping.
Operations:
Marketing.
Shipping Costs.
Unforeseeable expenses"

CLICK FOR MORE »

Pantala Labs CCV2 - Color Control Voltage 2 - First video

Published on Jun 7, 2017 Gibran Curtiss

A new DIY turntable CV controller from Gibran Curtiss aka Pantala Labs. You might remember the test video posted earlier. This new video replaces it with more details including the following:

P.S.  Curious what it would be like to use Optigan disks on this.  Use the printed Optigan waveforms as CV control.

"This is the new version of CCV - Color Control Voltage.
CCV2 is a DIY Arduino Mega based instrument, 100% synth compatible to convert colors into voltage/music.

Specs:
-full turntable arm and 12" platter;
-note quantizer for all 3 channels on chromatic scale;
-octave quantity control;
-octave/semitone shift control;
-clock divider control;
-euclidean rhythm generator control;
-internal clock / optical indexed clock / external clock options;
-3x 5V / 1VO = 5 octaves buffered CV outs using 12 bit DACs;
-4x buffered clock outs;
-motor speed control;
-arm step interval control;
-internal clock interval control.

Codes and schematics:
https://github.com/PantalaLabs/CCV

Thank you"

New Bastl Instruments DUDE - miniature 5 channel mixer & more

Published on May 19, 2017 Bastl Instruments

music by Václav a.k.a. Paseka : https://soundcloud.com/pasekacz

via Bastl Instruments

"Dude is a portable battery operated 5 channel audio mixer with mini jack inputs and output. Each channel has a dedicated mute button and up to +20dB gain to boost weak signals and saturate line level signals. It is a monophonic mixer but can drive your headphones and therefore its perfect for small portable rigs or submixes on stage. It runs on four AA batteries (or external power supply) and it is almost as small as its battery pack. Because each channel has enough gain it can be turned into a tone generator by feeding the output back to an input thru a passive eq and other simple circuits.

FEATURES:

5 channel monophonic mixer
up to +20dB (10x) gain knob for each channel
dedicated mute button switch per channel (not click less)
dual mono output for driving headphones
powered by 4x AA battery or external adaptor 9-12VDC"

Also Bastl Instruments has a new release on their NONA RECORDS label:

Superbooth 2017: Retrokits MIDI /Sync Hub, MIDIator Cable & Passive Mixer

Published on Apr 24, 2017 SYNTH ANATOMY

Raspberry Pi Looper/synth/drum thing

Published on Apr 23, 2017 otemrellik

"My first venture into raspberry pi stuff. Running a custom pure data patch I've been working on for a couple years on a Raspberry Pi 3. This project took a couple months and I'm still tweaking stuff here and there but it's pretty much complete, it even survived it's first live show!"

Superbooth 2017: Tubbutec Retrofit Kits And More

Published on Apr 22, 2017 sonicstate

New micro-tonal multi-tool CV MIDI interface module with various scales.

Sonic Potions SQ-303 Sequencer

Published on Apr 21, 2017 Audiofanzine in English

"Here's a presentation of Sonic Potions SQ-303 Sequencer at the Superbooth 2017."

Dialog Audio Modulation Processor

Published on Apr 21, 2017 Audiofanzine in English

"Here's a presentation of Dialog Audio Modulation Processor at the Superbooth 2017."

New Kilpatrick Audio TUNGSTEN Revealed at SUPERBOOTH17

"Introducing TUNGSTEN: Performance. Anywhere."

Details to follow...

I/O include: Phones, Line In, Mic In, USB, MIDI IN/OUT, USB.  No line out?

Creative Technologies Troll8 µSynth / µMidiController

Published on Mar 25, 2016 Creative Technologies FH Kiel

"More details soon at http://www.creative-technologies.de/t..."

This one spotted and sent in via Vladimir / av500.

look what the cat dragged in: #ctag #troll8 #sequencer #drumcomputer by FH Kiel, Germany #sdiy #modularsynth not #eurorack work in progress

A post shared by Vladimir Pantelic (@av5oo) on Apr 14, 2017 at 7:39am PDT

Hi-Pi TBX-1 Tuning Box - Microtonal Keyboard Converter

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

via this auction

"This allows you to convert a keyboard/synth's scale to anything that you like. You can create your own scales/tunings or choose from thousands of Scala files online. You can play, for example, ancient Greek scales on your synth or experimental tunings like those used by Harry Partch."

I believe this is the first post to feature the TBX-1. Hi-Pi is known for their Tonal Plexus microtonal keyboards. See the Hi-Pi label below for more.

Synthrotek Riblet SoftPot to 3.5mm TRS Jack PCB and Kit! Ribbon Controller

Published on Apr 4, 2017 synthrotek

"The Riblet is a small circuit board that allows you to connect any length SoftPot to your MST Ribbon Eurorack module. Screw, glue or stick this handy fella anywhere where you want more control. Works great when place on top of keyboards, guitar necks, broomsticks, etc."

http://www.synthrotek.com