"Explore the new MiniFreak Vocoder Firmware 4.0 - a powerful update for transforming voice, drums, and other audio sources into wild textures. Learn how to set it up, tweak its unique parameters, and push your sound into new territories, from classic roboticized vocals to futuristic sound design."
Daniela Pes | MiniFreak Vocoder Performance | ARTURIA
"From Sardinian ritual incantations to surgically-shaped vocoder choirs, Daniela Pes ( / daniela___pes ) makes electronic music that is both personal and ethereal. We met the Gallura-born singer, composer and sound explorer at a special location near her hometown in an abandoned silver mine to see how MiniFreak Vocoder keeps her ideas mutating in real time."
Update: pics of the new white Vocoder Edition.
"A bright white chassis, orange accents, and a 30 cm gooseneck mic/stand turn MiniFreak into a self-contained performance hub—plug, play, and freak out."
In this video, we walk you through the biggest new features in FW5 — a major update that brings powerful new tools and community-requested improvements to the original OXI ONE.
Highlights include:
Chords in Chromatic Mode Harmonize function in Matriceal Custom chord saving in Poly Mode New column view in Matriceal for easier editing Faster instrument definition import via the app Improved battery meter, swing for arpeggiator, and more
OXI ONE continues to evolve, and we’re excited to bring even more creative possibilities to your setup.
Check the full changelog on our website. Download the update via the OXI app.
Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on all things OXI. ■ Learn more about OXI One MIDI/CV Sequencer: https://oxiinstruments.com/oxi-one/ ■ Learn more about Coral Polyphonic and Multitimbral Eurorack Module: https://oxiinstruments.com/oxi-coral/
00:00 Introduction 00:37 Chords in chromatic mode + Poly custom chords 01:31 App support 02:00 The updated Matriceal mode"
"Experience Discovery Pro, the ultimate virtual analog synthesizer and sampler. With 4 layers, 12 oscillators, WAV and SoundFont support, PADSynth re-synthesis, and Nord Lead 2 SysEx import/export, Discovery Pro offers endless sound creation options. Its arpeggiator, 12 filter types (including Nord Lead 2 and Moog filters), panning modulation, stereo delay, gate and step modulation effects provide unmatched control. Discovery Pro is perfect for any music production."
c
"Patch Notes is a series of instructional videos designed to help you get the most out of Gliss and provide a source of ideas for fuelling your own experiments and discoveries. Together we will explore possibilities opened by placing Gliss in the midst of a larger patch rather than directly to its final destination, by mixing signals to combine touch control with traditional modulation sources and connecting to unlikely destinations.
The updated Gliss firmware introduces the ability to sync events in your modular system to the length of a recorded gesture, and much more besides. Upgrade for free: https://bela.io/upgrade-gliss.html"
In this video, we explore how to access the new global modulation options added to Muse's MOD MAP in v1.4 firmware.
Firmware v1.4 introduces a wealth of new modulation options: six new global modulation sources (two global LFOs, two global envelopes, and two global random trigger sources) and 23 new modulation destinations—including the much-requested ability to modulate every delay parameter, down to each individual character function.
These new options exponentially expand the sound design possibilities on Muse, opening the door to entirely new sonic landscapes and microcosms to explore.
2. Muse | Per-Timbre Sequencer Probability
In this video, we explore how to use the new per-timbre probability options added to Muse's sequencer in the new v1.4 firmware.
While firmware v1.4 expands Muse's sequencer capabilities in many ways—perhaps the most powerful enhancement is the ability to dial in different generative behaviors per timbre. This enables incredibly deep and detailed methods of introducing probability into your compositions, allowing Muse's sequencer to act as an improvisational partner.
Randomness is a powerful tool for adding surprise and movement to your music, and Muse's sequencer offers a compelling way to incorporate interesting musical twists and turns into your exploration of sound and compositional form.
3. Muse | Dynamic Chorus
In this video, we explore how to use some of the new features in Muse firmware version v1.4 to create dynamic chorus and interactive diffusion patches.
Muse firmware v1.4 allows for modulation of all parameters of the DIFFUSION DELAY using the six new global modulation sources. We first look at how to create a basic chorus sound by using short delay times in the DIFFUSION DELAY and modulating the delay times very gently using the global LFOs.
(Note that PITCH-SHIFT should be selected as the time mode in the DIFFUSION DELAY "More" menu to enable pitch artifacts reminiscent of those found on beloved analog BBD or tape delays.)
We also look at how to integrate Muse’s expressive controls, such as the Mod Wheel, keyboard Aftertouch, and Macro knob to control various parameters of both chorusing and diffusion. A twist on our patch uses the global envelope generators to increase the chorusing rate over the duration of our notes, which will function differently depending on if multi-trig is enabled or disabled for the global envelopes.
4. Muse | Fading Modulation
In this video, we explore how to use some of the new features in Muse firmware version v1.4 to create modulation routings that fade over the course of a note’s duration.
Muse firmware v1.4 introduces a handful of new functions to the MOD MAP which allow you to fade in or out a modulation routing over time. We take a modulation routing that uses global LFO 1 to modulate both delay times in the DIFFUSION DELAY and apply the new fade functions to fade the chorus effect over time.
FADE A fades the modulation in from the onset of a note, while FADE D fades modulation out from the start of a note. FADE R sustains the modulation routing for as long as a note is held and then fades it out when notes are released. Finally, FADE AR applies both an attack and release envelope to the modulation, combining our fade in/out behavior into one handy function. For all fading functions, the amount sets the time of the fade from shorter to longer.
5. Muse | LFO Envelope Mode
In this video, we explore how to use the envelope mode added to Muse's LFOs in the v1.4 firmware.
Firmware v1.4 introduces a bevy of new features to Muse, unlocking countless exciting modulation possibilities. LFO envelope mode is one powerful addition that allows the LFOs to behave more like an envelope.
When you press a key, the LFO will run through a single cycle of its waveform and then pause. When combined with some of the unique user waves found in LFOs 1 and 2 (and now global LFOs 1 and 2, as well), envelope mode enables a wide range of new, key-triggered movements to enhance your sound design experience with Muse.
"Skulptur, the performance-focused filterbank plugin by Bram Bos and Hainbach (iPad, iPhone, Mac) just got an update allowing you to use it as a midi CC controller for other iOS apps, or for hardware or desktop software etc that are able to receive midi CC messages from your iPad. In this video I look at:
How to set this up
What you can do with it
One change I would like to see to make it more useful
This is a very nice update, great to have this added functionality. If you haven’t watched it yet, and are into apps that can be used as CC midi controllers, watch my video on the new sqsl Strips app for iPad linked below. Not AUv3, but has some very nice features that are not covered by what Skulptur can do, plus a lot more faders:"
So useful: Strips iPad Midi CC Controller by Michal Macura / sqsl / Seqsual: Not AUv3, but🔥#droneday
"Introducing AstroLab 88 - designed for the live musician, it puts impeccable performance sounds at your fingertips with a premium hammer-action keybed and powerful software ecosystem, letting you take your signature sounds to the stage without anything standing between you and your creative expression."
"AstroLab Update 1.4 brings your rig up-to-spec with some of Arturia’s newest engines, adding full support for Pigments 6 and MiniFreak V3, tighter Analog Lab mirroring, and a round of stability fixes to keep every session running smooth."
🎹 Arturia ASTROLAB 88 – Exclusive MUSIC DEMO at Superbooth 2025 (w Pierre Pfister)
"Join us in this exclusive hands-on music demo straight from Superbooth 2025, where we explore the full expressive power of the ASTROLAB 88 with Arturia’s Product Manager, Pierre Pfister.
"Súmate a esta exclusiva 'music demo' directamente desde Superbooth 2025, donde exploramos todo el poder expresivo de ASTROLAB 88 con el Gerente de Productos en Arturia, Pierre Pfister."
Press release follow:
The new AstroLab has landed - with elevated performance and 88 weighted keys.
Engineered for liftoff, AstroLab redefines what a stage keyboard is all about. Combining an unrivaled sound palette with intuitive controls and seamless studio-to-stage experience, it empowers musicians to perform with confidence and limitless sonic freedom.
On May 27th we’re introducing AstroLab 88, which unites a responsive hammer-action keybed (Fatar TP-40L) with 40 onboard instruments, 1,600+ presets, updated CPU and the same forward-thinking ecosystem that lets artists perform with all their signature sounds - laptop-free.
Future-proof by design, AstroLab receives regular firmware upgrades that deepen its power and enhance the user experience. This continues with our next major update due by July 17th, which will bring new & updated V Collection 11 instruments, playlist transfer between Arturia’s Analog Lab Pro and AstroLab and the ability to send program changes to external devices and more.
_Premium hammer-action keybed
Perform with piano-size keys and piano-like response. AstroLab 88’s weighted keybed is built for demanding musicians who need that exceptional feel and control.
Studio → Stage continuum
Prepare sounds in Analog Lab Pro, organise setlists in the AstroLab Connect app, then play live without a laptop.
Navigation wheel & screen
Browse presets and playlists effortlessly and monitor parameters at a glance - no menu diving mid-gig.
40 reference instruments
From Piano V realism to Pigments’ modern engine; 1,600 presets on board, 10 000+ more via V Collection & sound banks.
Navigation wheel & screen
Modern connectivity
MIDI I/O, USB-C, USB-A host, audio input, Bluetooth & Wi-Fi, plus four pedal inputs.
Creative toolset
Arpeggiator, Chord & Scale modes, hands-on Macros, built-in Looper, up to 12 insert FX per preset."
*TIMING INDEX // CHAPTERS*
00:00 Hello & patch previews
00:52 What are we doing here?
01:18 All about Mutes mk2
03:35 2 of my favourite Mutes patches Performance modulation changes Adding Mutes & dub send FX to mixers
06:45 Trigger muting + mega playable burst & fill controls
09:36 Physical pings! - momentary triggers, manual gates & latching voltages
11:13 Classic Mutes response & feel - click free muting & slewing
12:36 Dub FX sends with perform-able FX send routings
"From it's February 2019 original release fast forward to 2025 here we have the new mk2 version of the DivKid Mutes Eurorack module. Made in collaboration with Befaco Mutes mk2 has a new VCA based mute circuit design with improved signal integrity and accuracy all with the same classic feel, click free muting and 3 way momentary - off - on mechanical switches. It now comes with a 1U panel so you can choose whether to mount in 3U Eurorack style or into an 1U row sideways if you like. The switches beg to be played and Mutes continues to work almost like a 'patch-able-expander' for many other modules.
FEATURES
LEDs to visualise signals
3 way momentary – off – on switching
Buffered and cascading normalising of inputs
VCA based muting
Interchangeable panel to 1U"
In this exclusive walkthrough, electronic musician and YouTuber @GabeMillerMusic dives into all the powerful new features inside FORCE 3.5 — the most significant update to Akai’s standalone music production system since launch.
From plugin instruments and MPC stem separation to tempo automation, advanced arrangement tools, and Native Instruments plugin compatibility, Gabe shows you exactly how this update takes your standalone workflow to the next level — no computer required.
Plugin Instruments and Effects: FORCE now supports new plugin releases from AIR, Akai Pro, and Native Instruments (MPC Editions), offering seamless integration of professional-grade sounds directly within the standalone system—no external software required.
MPC Stems separations for sampling, remixing and mashups: Users can isolate vocals, drums, and music elements from tracks, ideal for sampling, remixing, and live performance creativity. (MPC Stems License Required)
Tempo automation, follow actions, and new arrangement tools: Advanced performance sequencing empowers users to create evolving arrangements and dynamic live sets with greater control.
MPC sequence import, advanced keygroup synthesis, and warp algorithm choice: Offers expanded compatibility and flexibility with MPC workflows, enhanced sound manipulation, and precise audio warping.
New modes: Main Mode, XL Channel Strip, Sounds Mode, and more: Upgrades navigation and workflow efficiency, giving users better visual control and faster access to instruments, tracks, and mix parameters.
Significant speed boosts including faster sample loading and expanded export options: Streamlines production by reducing load times and offering more ways to export stems and sessions efficiently.
Native Instruments Plugin and Expansions MPC Editions compatible with Force. Users can purchase - Analog Dreams, Cloud Supply, Nacht, Sway, Homage, Lone Forest, Faded Reels, Hazy Days, Rare Vibrations, Global Shake"
Two LFOs: Expand your sound design possibilities with a second LFO for all voices. It works like the first LFO except that it does not have Attack or Delay parameters. It has no hardwired AM/FM mod on the operator, so it should be used in the mod matrix.
UI Improvement: Volumes for all 6 operators can now be edited at the same time. When you are on the Base tab, operators become color-matched to the encoders that control their volume.
Global > Display > Startup Bank: allows to choose which Patch or Voice bank you want to load on startup.
Mod Matrix: Added each slot's ratio as modulation destination. To produce the intended effect modulations have to be put in the right order (eg. slot 1 modulates slot 2 that modulates another parameter), otherwise modulations will occur across voices (which can be used for more complex effects).
NOISE generator - pink, white and channel balancing.
FILTER 1 and FILTER 2 - CV controls.
LINK switches to control two filters and CV at the same time with one slice knob. SOFT/HARD cutoff control Technical specifications:
Input audio signal level: Max 1.5 V Modulation CV input: - 5 to +5 V or 0 to + 10V
Power supply: universal mains adapter 100-220V / 12V 1A out Filter weight: 0,7kg
Packed weight: 1 kg
Dimensions: 175x135x50mm
WARNING! Before using the device, turn it on for 5-7 minutes and let it stand. The control transistor should warm up. So that in SOFT mode there is no feedback when the FREQ knobs are in zero position. If you overdo it. The UD1208 chips used in the filter are very sensitive and are never the same. Therefore you will not mathematically get two identical filters. Which is an advantage when using the unit in stereo.
"Yamaha has announced OS version 3.0 for the Montage M series synthesizers. I go over all the new features, including TWO HUGE new additions that have been requested for years!"
0:00 Intro
0:20 When Is It Out?
0:51 Clav D6 Samples
1:17 GS-1 Tremolo/Ensemble Effect
2:25 CS-80 Ring Modulation
3:37 Mid/Side EQ/Compression
4:57 New Scene Functionality
6:31 Effects Quick Edit
7:18 Part LFO Destinations
7:52 ESP DAW Remote
8:31 SSS Time Limit
10:58 Expanded Libraries
11:44 Ribbon View
11:58 Global Microtuning
12:09 USB MIDI Devices
12:49 Live Set Editor/Functionality
14:16 Pattern Sequencer
"The free Roland SH-4d v2.0 update expands the desktop synthesizer’s sonic capabilities with new Harmonic and Step Oscillator Models joining the existing eleven OSC models. Plus, smooth out your workflow with Pattern Chaining, system-wide reverb, chorus, and delay effects, a new Quick Overwrite process for saving tones and patterns, new Sub Step options to push sequence timing off the grid, and more.
In this video, Dustin Good walks through the features included in this major SH-4d update.
00:00 Intro
00:25 Step Oscillator Model
02:43 Harmonic Oscillator Model
04:50 Pattern Chain
06:14 Effects
07:25 Sub Step
08:25 Additional Features
Roland SH-4d V2 Firmware is here!!
video upload by Starsky Carr
0:00 what's this all about?
1:13 New Synth #1 HARMONICS
4:35 New Synth #2 STEP
10:49 Pattern Chaining
13:31 Step Shift Microtiming
15:16 Quick Saving & QUERTY input
16:08 It's got 10 undos
17:09 MIDI & USB
Update: press release follows:
The Roland SH-4d Desktop Synthesizer expands its creative potential with Version 2.0. The free upgrade gives electronic music producers new sonic capabilities with two expressive new OSC Models, pattern chaining for streamlined performances, and serious workflow refinements.
Two new OSC Models
STEP for step-based LFO modulation to produce dynamic movement within tones. From rigid, classic analog step sequencer-inspired phrases locked into the groove, to experimental soundscapes with curves, swells, bleeps and bloops.
HARMONIC for rich, layered sounds with a classic drawbar organ layout. Prime for creating essential house bass tones, bell-like chimes, deep pads, and powerful organ sounds with hands-on control of four harmonically tuned drawbars.
Workflow refinements
PATTERN CHAIN for streamlined hands-free performances and song construction.
SYSTEM-LEVEL FX options for consistent Reverb, Delay, and Chorus settings across all patterns for cohesive mixes in the studio as well as uninterrupted pattern switching while playing live.
QUICK OVERWRITE for saving tone and pattern data with less steps, never breaking creative momentum.
UNDO/REDO function now supported up to 10 times for worry-free experimentation when creating sequences.
New SUB-STEP options for off-grid note entry, shifting synth and drum hits behind-the-beat for looser grooves and greater variations when paired with Probability.
Extended MIDI control with improved program change implementation and new options for which MIDI data is transmitted to external devices.
"Our fractal sequencer has blossomed into something new, yet familiar. Follow along as we take a quick look at the new and improved Qu-Bit Bloom v2, a 3-channel, 64 steps per channel CV and gate sequencer with a whole lot of tricks up its sleeve!
Pre-Orders are now available. Shipping everywhere May 27, 2025!"
"The Polyend Synth just got a nice firmware update (v1.3) which incorporates a bunch of MIDI refinements, some new grid modes which open up new performance options and most importantly the new DWA engine which is a fun, dual sample based engine with a comb filter that can be approached in loads of interesting ways.
Transparency Notice: Polyend sent me Synth when it was first released for free in order for me to make a release video. I have not been otherwise paid for any follow-up content made about Synth, although I was given early access to beta versions of the firmware.
Chapters: 00:00 Intro 01:33 Layered Grids for Layered Sounds 04:34 DWA Engine - Intro 05:51 DWA Engine - Setting Expectations 08:07 DWA Engine - Controls 12:16 DWA Engine - Play Modes and Looping 16:20 DWA Engine - Crossfade 17:34 DWA Engine - Single Cycle Synthesis 20:39 DWA Engine - Comb Filter 23:58 Breaking down the lovely piano patch 28:06 DWA Engine - Old Skool Time Stretching 31:59 DWA Engine - Getting crazy with the comb filter 34:20 DWA Engine - Velocity and Aftertouch 37:05 Outro"
"Had the pleasure of trying the new Polyend Synth firmware 1.3 ahead of release. The new DWA engine opens up a world of textures — fragile loops, glitchy fragments, resonant feedbacks, all waiting to be shaped. It’s a reminder of how beautifully unpredictable sound can be."
00:00 Intro
01:35 Accessing Multi-Track Sequencer Mode
01:54 New Overlay and Button Function
02:09 Key Concepts and Overview
02:47 PATTERN Mode
04:20 TRACK Mode
06:11 Parameter Locking & Step Settings
09:03 Live Automation Recording
11:18 Copy/Paste Steps
11:57 Performing and Playing Front Panel
12:50 TRACK Mute
13:18 TRACK Select
13:55 Page Select (REC)
14:41 New NOISE Types
15:16 Parameter Locking Noise Types
16:36 Outro
Press release follows:
May 2, 2025, Superbooth Edition
Melbourne Instruments announce new firmware for ROTO-CONTROL and NINA
Visit Melbourne Instruments at Superbooth, May 8-10, FEZ-Berlin Germany, Booth H220
Melbourne Instruments announce BITWIG STUDIO integration for ROTO-CONTROL
MELBOURNE, Australia, May 2, 2025: Melbourne Instruments continue to build on the success of their motorized synths, NINA and DELIA, and MIDI controller ROTO-CONTROL launched in January this year. Melbourne Instruments is pleased to announce BITWIG STUDIO integration for Roto-Control is now available as a public beta. This adds to Roto-Control’s acclaimed Ableton Live integration, and now Bitwig Studio users can take full advantage of Roto-Control features with their Bitwig projects.
Melbourne Instruments bring their revolutionary touch sensitive, motorized knob technology along with high-res screens and haptic control to Bitwig Studio users.
Powerful, compact, and portable, Roto-Control features three main modes of operation: MIX, PLUGIN and MIDI with Motion Recorder. MIX Mode will automatically sync Bitwig with all track names and colors instantly appearing on Roto-Control displays. Roto-Control will update track names and colors when connected to an active Bitwig session. No need to save or edit labels – all data is taken directly from the active Bitwig session.
In PLUGIN Mode, plugin parameters and labels are taken directly from Bitwig with one touch, one-time, intuitive easy setup. Learn plugin parameters once and Roto-Control will remember learnt parameters anytime you use Bitwig. All learnt plugin parameters are stored locally on Roto-Control, making it quick and easy to use with any computer setup. Roto-Control is a truly unique motorized MIDI controller that is highly customizable with internal storage for thousands of assignments.
Bitwig Studio users can streamline their creative workflow and quickly evolve ideas with responsive physical control of Bitwig Studio through Roto-Control’s MIX and PLUGIN Modes. This new integration is a collaboration between Bitwig and Melbourne Instruments, responding to the overwhelming demand for Roto-Control support for Bitwig Studio.
Bitwig Studio integration marks the second DAW support for Roto-Control with additional DAW integration currently in the works.
Bitwig Studio integration for Roto-Control is a public beta, please see link for more info and to download the beta firmware. www.melbourneinstruments.com/roto
00:00 preset demo intro
00:30 overview
00:54 new DSP update & 2 FXs
01:15 new sound expansion
01:36 new preset demo
03:30 how to access the new FXs
04:40 deleting presets & playlists
05:08 bugfixes & other improvements
05:37 upcoming instrument editors
06:15 install process
osmose 2.1 firmware new preset demos (hear it in action)
"The second major free update of Osmose 2.1 is here!
The newest update of our flagship MPE synth, Osmose, teased further upcoming features for 2025. Standalone users will enjoy 80 analog presets + 2 new built-in FXs directly on Osmose. These additions were made possible by a simultaneous big update of Osmose’s DSP & programming tools, the EaganMatrix and Editor, which makes it easier to create sounds and analog timbres.
For all Osmose users with a registered Osmose in their Expressive E user account, the update is already available in the 'My Downloads & Serials' section of your account. Users must download the ZIP file that is compatible with their computer, either for Windows, Mac with Intel processors, or Apple Silicon Macs (M1/M2/...). A PDF with detailed instructions on the update process is contained in the ZIP file."
