Georgia Tech Announces 28th Annual Guthman Musical Instrument Competition Finalists

video upload by Georgia Tech School of Music

"Ten innovators from six countries have advanced to the competition's final round. They will meet on the Georgia Tech campus in Atlanta, Georgia on March 13 and 14, 2026, to compete for $10,000 in prizes. Each finalist and their instrument has a compelling story — these are the world's next generation of musical instruments."



Press release follows:

28th Annual Guthman Musical Instrument Competition Announces 2026 Finalists: The Next Generation of Musical Expression

ATLANTA (February 10, 2026) — The Georgia Tech School of Music has announced the ten finalists for the 28th annual Guthman Musical Instrument Competition. Often cited as "the Pulitzer of the new instrument world" by The Guardian, the competition identifies the inventors and instruments that will define the next century of performance.

The competition is essential to the "lifeblood" of the music industry, providing the research and development that leads to new sonic textures. Past finalists include industry-shaping brands such as Artiphon, Roli, and Teenage Engineering.

The 2026 Finalists: The ten finalists include instruments that redefine the relationship between the player and the sound source. Highlights include the Gajveena, a seven-foot bass-veena hybrid; The Amphibian Modules, which uses salt water to shape audio; and VERTO, which allows players to "sculpt" electricity using magnetic fingertips.

Other finalist innovations—The Lethelium, The Masterpiece, Fiddle Henge, Post-Digital Sax, EV, The Demon Box, and Kalíptera—offer new paths for the future of the performing artist through robotic automation and digital-acoustic hybrids.

See and hear the 10 finalist instruments in this short YouTube video.

The Judges: The 2026 competition will be overseen by a prestigious panel of judges:
Gérard Assayag: Founder of the Music Representation Group at IRCAM.
Kerry Hagan: Researcher at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign in algorithmic composition and real-time processing.
Vivek Maddala: Four-time Emmy-winning composer and multi-instrumentalist.

"Georgia Tech’s sponsorship of the Guthman Musical Instrument Competition reflects the school’s role as a premier institution for musical innovation," said Jeff Albert, Associate Professor and Competition Head. "Our focus remains on the human and artistic impact. Our classes and programs are providing a platform that gives musicians new ways to create music and sound, ensuring that the technology serves the art."

The competition will be held on the Georgia Tech campus on March 13-14, 2026, with $10,000 in prize money awarded to the winners.

Pictured in order:

Finalists Collage

The Demon Box [additional posts here]

The Masterpiece

The Amphibian Modules

Kalíptera

The Lethelium

EV

Fiddle Henge

Gajveena

and

Post-Digital Sax

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Cherry Audio Fuses Three Classic Synths into New SH-MAX Powerhouse

video uploads by Cherry Audio

Playlist: [Use the player controls to skip around.]


1. Cherry Audio | SH-MAX Synthesizer - NEW!
2. Cherry Audio | Preset Walkthrough with Andrew Longhurst
3. Cherry Audio | MAXIMUM OVERDRIVE Preset Pack for SH-MAX Synthesizer by James Dyson
4. NEW! Cherry Audio LIVE PREMIERE Tuesday, February 10 at 10 AM PST
5. Cherry Audio SH-MAX - Roland's SH series reimagined! (Demo / Tutorial) - CatSynth TV

Press release follows:


Cherry Audio has announced SH-MAX, an innovative software synthesizer that integrates three legendary SH-series synths from the '70s: the SH-5, SH-7, and SH-3A.

Cherry Audio has announced the launch of SH-MAX, an innovative software synthesizer that integrates three legendary SH-series synthesizers from the 1970s: the SH-5, SH-7, and SH-3A. SH-MAX captures the bold sound of the SH-5 while incorporating features and aesthetics from the other models, enhancing the original designs with greater power, versatility, and essential tools for modern music production. Musicians and vintage synth enthusiasts can start using SH-MAX today for the incredibly low price of just $59, available at cherryaudio.com and authorized resellers worldwide.

SH-MAX faithfully recreates the vibrant tones and workflow of the original SH hardware. It features powerful dual oscillators, two LFOs and ADSR envelopes, the dual-parallel multimode and bandpass filter sections, and the five-channel mixer of the SH-5 (1976), plus a ring modulator and sample/hold capability. Also included are autobend, duophony, filter FM, and the syncable VCOs with additional waveforms found in the SH-7 (1978). The extra additive-style oscillator from the SH-3A (1975) further enhances sound design flexibility. Moreover, SH-MAX incorporates and expands upon the expressive touch performance of the SH-2000 (1973) and features an onboard sequencer inspired by the Model 104 of the legendary System 100 semi-modular synthesizer from 1975.

SH-MAX honors its lineage while taking full advantage of modern software capabilities, supporting mono, duophonic, and 16-voice polyphonic operation for rich chords as well as earthshaking unison timbres. It features three unique retro interface themes that pay homage to the aesthetic of the SH-3A, SH-5, and SH-7, providing a visually immersive experience for true vintage synth enthusiasts. Additionally, optional drift and slop controls for the oscillators, filters, amp, and dual envelope generators introduce authentic analog character and warmth to every sound patch.

The highly flexible SH-style stereo mixer and its varied workflow options allow for modular-style signal routing. Each sound source -- VCO-1, VCO-2A, VCO-2B, the ring modulator, and noise -- can be independently routed to the VCF, BPF, or VCA, with each path enhanced with its own chain of studio-quality effects. With 20 effects available to arrange and reuse within its four chains, SH-MAX provides an exceptionally wide sonic palette. Additional features include a four-channel step sequencer capable of parallel playback or extended chaining, along with a touch effects panel that supports channel and polyphonic aftertouch with compatible MIDI controllers.

SH-MAX's legacy traces back to over five decades of synthesizer and electronic music innovation. The SH-series synthesizers have been used by a diverse range of artists, including Kraftwerk, Tangerine Dream, Jean-Michel Jarre, Brian Eno, Gary Numan, Throbbing Gristle, Skinny Puppy, Aphex Twin, Orbital, Mathew Jonson, Pink Floyd, Nine Inch Nails, Kitaro, MGMT, Vangelis, The Human League, Blondie, Yello, and more.

With SH-MAX, users can create everything from massive leads and thick basses to lush pads and exceptional sound effects, making it a true synthesis powerhouse at their fingertips. To inspire musicians right out of the box, SH-MAX includes over 300 expertly crafted presets that showcase its broad capabilities. For those wanting even more, the Maximum Overdrive Preset Pack by sound designer James Dyson is available from Cherry Audio for $9.99, offering 100 additional presets that highlight SH-MAX's raw analog tone, advanced modulation, four-channel step sequencer, and abundant effects.

Furthermore, until February 22nd, customers can take advantage of Cherry Audio's "Build Your Own Bundle" promotion at cherryaudio.com. Choose the Pick 3 bundle for $99 (regularly $129) or the Pick 6 bundle for $149 (regularly $169) to mix and match any of Cherry Audio's award-winning instruments for as low as $25 per plugin.

Cherry Audio's SH-MAX synthesizer is now available for $59 at cherryaudio.com and authorized resellers worldwide. SH-MAX is a virtual instrument for macOS (10.13 and later) and Windows (7 and later), provided as AU, VST, VST3, and AAX plugins, as well as a standalone application. A free 30-day demo is available. For in-depth product details, an introductory video, extensive demos, and system requirements, visit cherryaudio.com.

Scale Snap - Eurorack Random Note CV Sequencer

video upload by HOX808

"Scale Snap generates random but scale-accurate note patterns of up to 16 steps. You choose the key/scale, root note, number of steps, and how “jumpy” the pattern feels. It also includes a chord/'Strainer' mode that locks notes to triad tones (random-only, ascending, or descending).

Connections include clock in, 1V/Oct CV out (0–5V), reset to step 1, and a random trigger/button. Controls let you set root, select from multiple scales (chromatic, major, minor modes, pentatonics, etc.), and adjust a parameter that switches between probability of change, octave range, and step count. The display shows step progress, current parameter values, root/scale name, and a scale grid with the active note highlighted."

New From Hinton Instruments

via Hinton Instruments

New MIDI Modules
01 February 2026

Our range of 3U professional MIDI controlled analogue modules continues to expand with four new products. These are all in an advanced development stage and the order of release will be according to interest and demand. For further information please use the contact form.

With many 3U modules now using MIDI they may be directly connected with internal cables or brought out to panel connectors. Maximum flexibility for connector types, position in case, and routing is provided by Molex KK 0.1" headers on the pcbs.

CLICK FOR MORE »

EZEPTOCORE x EZEPTOCORE

video upload by infinitedigits

"EZEPTOCORE time two. EZEPTOCORE is an algorithmic Eurorack sampler and breakbeat mangler for slicing, sequencing, and transforming rhythms in real time."

"An algorithmic eurorack sampler and breakbeat mangler for slicing, sequencing, and transforming rhythms in real time. from Infinite Digits and Maneco Labs."

https://get.ezeptocore.com

8 Track MIDI Sequencer on Adafruit PyGamer

video upload by ugufru

"This is a short demo of an eight track MIDI sequencer that I created on the Adafruit PyGamer."

via Adafruit

"What fits in your pocket, is fully Open Source, and can run CircuitPython, MakeCode Arcade or Arduino games you write yourself? That's right, it's the Adafruit PyGamer! We wanted to make an entry-level gaming handheld for DIY gaming, and maybe a little retro-emulation. It's not the fastest and best of everything but it is an all-in-one dev board with a lot of possibilities!

The PyGamer is powered by our favorite chip, the ATSAMD51, with 512KB of flash and 192KB of RAM. We add 8 MB of QSPI flash for file storage, handy for images, fonts, sounds, or game assets."

Building the ReZyklus - Vangelis' Zyklus MPS1 Clone

This one is in via Jeroen of https://zyklus-mps.com/

"A while ago a group of enthausiasts set out to create a clone of the Zyklus MPS-1 that was made famous by Vangelis for its use on Direct (this was also the inspiration for the actual 'Direct' system he used until ca 1994). The original creators of this machine, Pete Kellock and Bill Marshall graciously allowed us to use the schematics and software to create this clone and have given us their permission to set it free for everyone who wants to make their own. So here goes:

In this GIT repo is everything you need to create your own machine. You will have to source your own parts, but there is a list for that. The parts are basic components, nothing custom, but some items may become slightly rare (like small EPROMs).

Its basically just a Z80 based computer.
There are also files to have the circuit boards and panels created (we used jlcpcb for that), and some 3d printing files for various panel work. A lot of the buttons etc you can get cheaply from Aliexpress and the like. Bin files for the EPROMs are also avialable. I've been also given permission to open source the actual source code, and I will do that too, at some point, but I'm still working on a few small issues before I can do that.

https://github.com/jeroenhn/zykl

There is a discord server you can join where you can chat with other builders.

The clone as we made it, is a dedicated to the memory of Vangelis and it's noted as such on the main circuit board."

See this previous post for a Demo tape on the original Zyklus. See the Zyklus label at the bottom of this post for additional posts including a documentary with Vangelis.

Pictured: Paul's white ReZyklus in the making.

Original grey Zyklus below from this post. Only 40 were made.

SEOK synthesizers Introduces BOUNCE – One-Shot Event Generator Eurorack Module

video upload by SEOK synthesizers

"Bounce is a compact event generator built for percussive envelopes, bouncing modulations and rhythmic control. It creates trigger-driven one-shots with 8 distinct waveforms that can range from sharp clicks to rounded contours.

Repeat function with a ”bouncing ball” effect, making the bounces naturally fade within the cycle. Length, repeats and delay shape the result from tight hits to rolls, flams and clustered rhythms perfect for kick and bass.

Full CV control + inverted output. Designed and hand-built in Sweden."

Timestamps:
00:00 Intro
00:33 Patch 1 Rolling Filter Beat
01:11 Patch 2 Fading Inversions
02:05 Patch 3 Ratcheting HH/Perc
02:35 Patch 4 Sweetspots
03:29 Patch 5 Neg Resonance Mod
04:00 Patch 6 Random Mod
04:14 Patch 7 Ramps Ramping Rapid
05:15 Outro

Additional details:


"BOUNCE One-Shot Event Generator

This is a compact event generator built for percussive envelopes, bouncing modulations and rhythmic control signals.

Bounce creates trigger-driven one-shots with a set of 8 distinct waveforms selectable via the large control knob. From sharp, click-like hits to softer, rounded contours. This offers fast access to clearly different envelope characters.

Repeat function with a ”bouncing ball” effect, making the bounces naturally fade within the cycle.

The length control sets the length of the waveform while repeats add repetitions of the wave, and delay sets the time between those waves.

These features in combination makes it easy to move from single tight envelopes to rolls, flams, clustered impacts and creative rhythmic patterns.

All main parameters got CV-inputs. A dedicated inverted output adds instant polarity flip.

Background

We like techno. For us its about solid kicks with defined transients and a fundamental low end that moves air without collapsing the mix.

Bounce is built to be performative and work at the source. By shaping events, accents and repetitions already at the control stage – it lets the mix breathe and leaves space where it matters most. Perfect for basslines, drums and transients."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Melancholy synth | Gene Synths GX first tweaks

video upload by Lo-Fi-Si

"#electronicmusic #analogsynthesizer #sounddesign #synth #synthesizer #experimentalmusic #ambientmusic #glitch #noise

Gene Synths GX

New synth day. I’ve been waiting patiently for this to arrive and it was worth every second.

Such a beautiful lo-fi melancholic sound with a load of modulation. I fell in love with the sound when I came across the Gene synths website last year.

Great solid build quality and probably the best knobs of any synth I own ❤️

The interface is unique and encourages exploration and experimentation.

Can’t wait to send it through a looper.

‪@genesynths‬"

Behringer BMX: The 80s Drum Machine That Brings Timeless Grooves Back to Life

video upload by Behringer

"If you love creating beats that feel alive, BMX is built for you.
This drum machine brings the iconic 80s sound into your workflow with a modern, hands-on experience that sparks creativity from the very first pattern.

Tap in your ideas using velocity-sensitive pads, shape the groove with swing and tempo, and build rich drum arrangements with hands-on control over every voice. In the studio, multi-output connectivity supports flexible routing and detailed production workflows. On stage, pattern chaining, song mode, and real-time performance features keep the energy flowing.

Whether you’re producing, performing, or experimenting, BMX gives you the freedom to create beats that move people.

Feel the rhythm. Shape the groove.
Create with Behringer BMX."

Huge Modern Modular Filter Tones & Techniques // 3 Patches for Ceremony & Sigil from Nekyia Circuits

video upload by DivKid

"Here we have a 3 Patches series video with the character oozing CEREMONY, a low pass morphing to twin peak band pass filter packed with modern features and lots of CV options and SIGIL a compact function generator for envelopes, LFOs, slews or other function generator tricks! Check out the patches and skip around below."

"If you'd like to support work like this and the wider range of what I do, considering heading over to Patreon at https://bit.ly/DK-patreon and supporting for as little as $1 a month to gain access to the DivKid Discord community, plus lots of exclusives such as PDF patchbooks, videos and more. https://bit.ly/DK-patreon"

*TIMING INDEX // CHAPTERS*

NOTE // sub bullet points are points of interest within each section/patch, for those that might be looking for a specific detail to skip back to.

INTRO

00:00 Hello & previews

01:16 Sigil feature run down (function generator)

CLICK FOR MORE »

Djupviks Bunker Archaeology II - First Look.

video upload by Lesjamusic

"Djupviks Elektronik's Bunker Archaeology II is a Eurorack "bunker simulator" - an overdriven digital reverb feeding a frequency-driven tremolo circuit. Inspired by Paul Virilio's photographic documentation of the abandoned Atlantic Wall fortifications, it's lo-fi, grainy, and full of character. The MkII addresses the rough edges of the original: a proper wasp-style filter with resonance and CV control, CV over feedback, a rebuilt static circuit that actually responds across its full range, and a clock output for those irregular rhythms.

This isn't your pristine shimmer reverb. If you want transmissions from a crumbling concrete structure on the Normandy coast, this is the territory.

TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 - Intro
02:02 - Panel Walkthrough - audio
03:01 - Panel Walkthrough - reverb
05:21 - Panel Walkthrough - static
06:27 - Static CV - ring mod
07:24 - Vs Bunker I, what's gone?
07:54 - Synth Patch
10:23 - Final thoughts"

https://djupvikselektronik.bandcamp.c...

Buchla Format Model 416.3 Meta Expander by guyd2

According to guyd2, the Model 416.3 Meta Expander is:

"A sophisticated, stand-alone expansion unit for the Buchla Music Easel.
Contains several dedicated modules : Comparators, Dividers, Boolean, VC Slew Limiter, S/H & Noise, analog ultrastable VCO/LFO, advanced Mixer w/ Comparator, and an 8-step Sequencer.
Also expands on the 208 CV I/O's, pulses I/O and Switch inputs."

https://guyd2.com/416_3-order/

"What you get :

- Model 416.3 Meta Expander for Bemi/Busa/Buchla Easel, 208c, or clones.

- Custom-made enclosure (boat) + tilted support stand.

- Two Model 416 Edge Cards, 100% compatible with 208’s Ext/Prog Interface.

- Two 40-pin custom-made ribbon cable assemblies (one short, one longer).

- A printed User Manual.

- Internal power supply; its location (back or right-side) is adjustable by the user."

Expert Sleepers disting NT v1.14 Updates

video uploads by Expert Sleepers

Also see disting NT - Clock Swing and the "NT-303" plug-in

Playlist:

1. disting NT - Knob Recorders

The Performance Page on the disting NT now includes Knob Recorders, so you can instantly record parameter gestures and have them play back in a loop, adding motion to your patches.

2. disting NT - Texture Synthesizer (aka Clouds)

"The disting NT now includes the classic 'Clouds' by Émilie Gillet."

3. disting NT - Spectrum Analyzer

The Spectrum Analyzer is a simple utility, added in disting NT firmware v1.14.

4. disting NT - Spectral Vocoder

The new Spectral Vocoder on the disting NT is an alternative to the existing, analogue-inspired, Vocoder algorithm. It uses an FFT-based technique to offer way more frequency bands for the analysis and resynthesis.

5. disting NT - Spectral Vocoder (slight return)

Some more examples of the Spectral Vocoder in action.

00:00 Speech modulating a chordal pad.
00:55 Drum loops and other samples as the modulator.

6. disting NT - Spectral Conquest

The Spectral Conquest algorithm on the disting NT is based on our VST plug-in of the same name: https://www.expert-sleepers.co.uk/spe...

It offers spectral (FFT) based manipulation of audio.

00:00 Introduction
01:07 Spectral Shift
03:45 Spectral Gate
05:28 Spectral Comb
07:08 Spectral Sieve
10:49 Spectral Polysynth
12:45 Spectral Filters

7. disting NT - Knob Recorder controlling another module

This video demonstrates a technique for using the disting NT's Knob Recorder to generate a CV to control another module, eliminating the need for a dedicated knob recorder module.

Behringer JN-80. The 80s just evolved

video upload by Behringer

"The Behringer JN-80 brings true eighties character into a fully analog architecture.
In this video you hear what it really delivers: solid DCOs, the classic 3109 VCF, the BBD chorus and the full punch of its 8-voice analog engine.

No extra processing. No studio tricks.
Just the JN-80 recorded as it is.

In this video you’ll hear
Warm, immediate analog tones
Responsive leads and evolving textures
Tight basslines with the sub-oscillator engaged
The chorus adding width and life to the sound

The JN-80 is built for creators who want a straightforward workflow and authentic analog tone."

SynTesla Presents 5U Animator Module

video upload by SynTesla

"SynTesla presents the Animator 5U module.

The electronics for this module were conceived by the brilliant mind of Yves Usson. It is a new kind of module, quite different from what one usually finds in a modular synthesizer.

The Animator (temporary name, we need to find a better one) will generate a modulated mix of four waveforms of different pitches and types from a simple external sawtooth wave.

This module is a real achievement because it is 100% analog. It will be available in the next SynTesla 5U systems."

disting NT - Clock Swing and the "NT-303" plug-in

video upload by Expert Sleepers

"This video is a demo of the new Swing feature in the Clock algorithm of the disting NT, added in firmware v1.14. It also demos the "NT-303" plug-in by thorinside.

00:00 8th and 16th note swing
01:46 Tuplet swing
03:22 The NT-303 plug-in."

https://nt-gallery.nosuch.dev/plugin/nt-303

Thomas Dolby signs a Minimoog Voyager XL! Enter BMF Raffle to Win This One-of-a-Kind Synthesizer!

video upload by moogfoundation

"Enter to win a rare Minimoog Voyager XL signed by Thomas Dolby: https://bit.ly/ThomasDolbyVoyagerXL

Step inside the world of analog synthesis as we sit down with legendary electronic musician and sound designer Thomas Dolby, exploring the power and personality of Moog instruments.

A gorgeous Minimoog Voyager XL synthesizer is the grand prize for the Bob Moog Foundation's 2026 winter raffle which ends February 23. It bears Thomas Dolby's signature near the Minimoog 40th Anniversary name plate, a value of $7,500.

Help us carry Bob's legacy forward to inspire future generations through the intersection of science, music, history, and innovation."

🌐 Visit the Bob Moog Foundation: https://www.moogfoundation.org

CLICK FOR MORE »

SOFIA SYNTH SYMPOSIUM - EVENT RECAP + NEXT EDITION INVITATION

video upload by Sofia Synth Symposium

"Relive the highlights from the latest Sofia Synth Symposium, hosted in the inspiring Resonator space in Sofia - a venue that perfectly matched the energy, curiosity, and sonic experimentation of the community.

This recap captures an intense weekend filled with synth exploration, modular discoveries, lectures, workshops, and live performances, bringing together artists, builders, and sound enthusiasts from across Europe and beyond.

In this video you’ll see highlights from:
• The Resonator space and exhibition area
• Exhibitors including LOVE Synthesizers, Rides in the Storm, SOMA Laboratory, Backpullver Software
• Lectures and workshops by Carmen Rizzo, Ivan Shopov, Sound Ninja Academy
• Demos, performances, and community moments

NEXT SOFIA SYNTH SYMPOSIUM - SAVE THE DATE
The next edition of Sofia Synth Symposium will take place on
June 12–14, 2026 in Sofia, Bulgaria

Whether you’re a visitor, musician, producer, DIY builder, or exhibitor, you’re invited to be part of the next gathering.

Join us as:
• A visitor - explore cutting-edge gear, talks, and performances
• An exhibitor - showcase your instruments, software, or ideas to an engaged international audience

For upcoming programme details, tickets, and exhibitor applications, visit:
https://www.synthsymposium.com

Thanks for watching and supporting the synth community - see you at the next Sofia Synth Symposium.

#SofiaSynthSymposium #ResonatorSofia #ModularSynth #LOVEsynthesizers #SOMALaboratory #RidesInTheStorm #BackpullverSoftware #CarmenRizzo #IvanShopov #SoundNinjaAcademy #MusicTech #ElectronicMusic #MusicGearExpo"

CROW HILL Introduces Vaults GLASS BEAKER - Free

video upload by CROW HILL

"In this video Theo takes us through the next instalment in our FREE plugin range called Vaults - Beaker. Can a big old bit of glass from a homewares shop really make a beautiful sounding instrument. It can if it's recorded at Gorbals Sound in Glasgow and performed by our founder Christian Henson. A testament to what sampling enables us and you to do, make beautiful sounds and music with nothing more than a bit of imagination and care."

Press release follows:

The Crow Hill Company creates …GLASS BEAKER as latest …VAULTS virtual instrument, free for all to download and make music with no formal training

EDINBURGH, UK: The Crow Hill Company is proud to announce availability of VAULTS - GLASS BEAKER as the latest downloadable drop in its free virtual instrument collection, created from thecnotion that music need not necessarily begin with formal training, specialist instruments, or expensive tools but instead it comes from working directly with sound — specifically, placing a microphone in front of a simple object and exploring what happens through touch, movement, and experimentation, the resulting tone of which feels familiar but resists easy identification, sitting somewhere between a glockenspiel and a celeste without being either — as of February 2…

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