Soft Cell - Tainted Love | 80s Synthpop Cover | Maxi-Korg 800DV, PPG Wave & Emulator II

video upload by RetroSound

"My cover of the iconic 1981 Soft Cell synthpop classic “Tainted Love”, recreated with authentic vintage synthesizers and samplers from the 80s electronic music era.

For this version, I used:

🎹 Maxi-Korg 800DV – analog bass and fx synthesizer sounds
🎹 PPG Wave 2.2 – main theme and pads
🎹 E-MU Emulator II – CR-78 drum and additional sampling sounds

The goal was to capture the atmosphere, character and raw electronic aesthetic of classic 1980s synthpop, while giving the song my own production and sound approach.

' Tainted Love ' became one of Soft Cell’s defining songs after its release in 1981. The duo Marc Almond and Dave Ball transformed the earlier soul song into a minimalist, dark and highly influential synthpop classic. The song was originally written by Ed Cobb and first recorded by Gloria Jones in 1964.

Soft Cell’s version became a major international hit and helped define the sound of early-1980s electronic pop, with synthesizers, electronic rhythms and a distinctive minimalist arrangement.

For me, recreating this track with vintage hardware is also a journey back to the analog and early digital sound of the 1980s — before modern software instruments became the standard. Dave Ball wrote me he used the Korg Bass and the Synclavier in the original song."

synth tees: https://retrosound.creator-spring.com

PPG wave 2.2 🎹

video upload by RetroSound

"PPG Wave System 🎹 #synth #synthdemo #vintagesynth #music #synthesizer #80smusic #80s #retrosound"

Robert Palmer - I Didn't Mean to Turn You On | Vintage Synth Cover | PPG Wave System & Emulator II

video upload by RetroSound

"Robert Palmer's classic hit "I Didn't Mean to Turn You On" recreated using an authentic collection of legendary 1980s electronic instruments.

This cover was produced primarily with the iconic PPG Wave 2.2 and PPG Waveterm A. Most of the synthesizer sounds and samples were created directly on the original PPG Wave System, delivering the unmistakable sound of early wavetable synthesis.

Additional textures and sampled guitar sounds were performed on the legendary E-mu Emulator II, while the rhythm section combines the unmistakable punch of the LinnDrum with the electronic percussion of the Simmons SDS8.

The drum and percussion tracks feature two true vintage classics:

🎹 PPG Wave 2.2
💾 PPG Waveterm A
🎹 E-MU Emulator II
🥁 Simmons SDS8
🥁 LinnDrum

This cover is a tribute to the incredible production and atmosphere of the original recording, combining authentic 1980s synthesizers, sampler technology, and classic drum machines.

The goal of this production was to recreate the authentic sound and atmosphere of the mid-1980s using original hardware instruments."

Website ► https://retrosound72.wixsite.com/home
Merch Shop ► https://retrosound.creator-spring.com/

PPG 1002 with Antonus 2600 and Step Brother session 2

video upload by Antonus

"Antonus System - 2600 & Step Brother + PPG 1002

We lucky enough to have the reissue of the PPG 1002 in our studio for a few days—one of the rarest and most sought-after synthesizers in music history.

We absolutely had to take advantage of its stay, so we paired it with our Antonus System to make some music and explore what this amazing synth can do.

In this patch, you can hear the full setup interacting. The sequence starts off really quiet and atmospheric, but then it evolves into an absolute groove that will make you want to move.

We hope you enjoy this patch! Let us know what you think in the comments below.

🎥 Filmmaker: Micaela Villafañe
🎛️ Studio: Resonite Art Factory"

Thomas Dolby Demonstrates synthesizers (1982)

video upload by electrozaps

"Thomas Dolby Demonstrates synthesizers (1982) clip from BBC Riverside."

Roland System 100m, Roland TR-808, PPG Wave, Casio VL-1, Moog Micromoog, ARP Solina, Roland Junpiter-4, and Roland VP-330 Vocoder Plus.

Towards a new WaveTerm?

video upload by WPalmWT

"My current work based on the CommBusTerm from Michael Indlekofer.
more about Michael Indlekofers project: https://sourceforge.net/projects/comm...

0:00 – Intro
2:29 – The Idea
3:18 – Keyboard on Waves
6:20 – Envelope on Waves"

PPG Wave 2.2 Owners Manual

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

via this eBay listing

Additional Tone Tweakers Listings

"We got this with a PPG Wave 2.2 we got from a customer. We’re not sure if this is the original manual provided from the factory or a copy. Please refer to pics."

CLICK FOR MORE »

The Classic 80s Sound of a-ha - Train of Thought | Vintage Synth Recreation

video upload by RetroSound

"In this new video I recreate the sound of “Train of Thought” by a-ha from the album Hunting High and Low. Written by Pål Waaktaar, this track is one of the standout examples of 1980s synth-pop production, combining melodic hooks, layered textures, and distinctive Scandinavian pop atmosphere.

For this vintage synth recreation I focused on capturing the character, tone, and arrangement of the original recording using classic hardware synthesizers and samplers. My setup includes the Yamaha DX7 II FD and the Roland Juno-106 for the main synth parts and signature textures.

The bass, flute sound (Fairlight) and selected drum sounds were created with the E-mu Emulator II. I also used the PPG Wave 2.2 for additional digital bass layers, digital textures, and atmospheric effects.

My goal was to explore how the classic a-ha sound was built — from analog warmth and FM synthesis to early digital sampling and wavetable synthesis.

If you enjoy vintage synthesizers, 80s synth-pop, classic a-ha productions, and deep dives into iconic keyboard sounds, this recreation is for you."

SynthFest France 2026 Presentations

video uploads by SynthFest France

Click CC at the bottom of the player for subtitles. You can also use the center left right player controls to skip through videos once started.

Playlist:

1. Sequential Fourm - Chris Calcutt | SynthFest France 2026
2. Oberheim TEO-5 - Chris Calcutt | SynthFest France 2026
3. Fred'S Lab Manatee | SynthFest France 2026
4. Morphor Echon 6 | SynthFest France 2026
5. SynthR | SynthFest France 2026
6. Kodamo Mask1 EX MK2 - Cutting Edge | SynthFest France 2026
7. Kiviak Instruments WoFi | SynthFest France 2026
8. Korg Kronos 3 - Michel Deuchst - Kurt Ader - Michael Geyre | SynthFest France 2026
9. Yamaha MODX M8 - Cyril Colom - Didier Davidas | SynthFest France 2026
10. Larix Elektro | SynthFest France 2026
11. PPG Modulars - Liquid Sky Eurorack case - Paulee Alex Box | SynthFest France 2026
12. SynTesla 5U Systems first demo | SynthFest France 2026
13. XOR Electronics NerdSEQ | SynthFest France 2026
14. Theresyn - Cynthia Caubisens - Nori Ubukata | SynthFest France 2026
15. Roland TR-1000 | SynthFest France 2026
16. Eowave Portail & Redondance | SynthFest France 2026
17. Embodme Erae 2 | SynthFest France 2026
18. FCPRO.Audio Mixthesizer - Matrix - Sumpressor | SynthFest France 2026
19. ACE Studio 2.0 - AI | SynthFest France 2026
20. BEATSURFING | SynthFest France 2026
21. BLEASS | SynthFest France 2026
22. Heritage Modular - Heritage Synthesizers - Live coding | SynthFest France 2026
23. Bitwig Studio & Bitwig Connect | SynthFest France 2026

New & Vintage PPG wave 2.3 PCBs Side by Side & FAQ Now Live

Some pics showing the old & new PCBs for the upcoming wave 2.3. Old is on top.

The new wave 2.3 will be 99.9% a clone of the original with only changes to ensure longevity:

"The sound is exactly the same, mainly because it actually is a PPG wave 2.3.
But reliability issues related to the Legacy design had to be addressed.
All improvements were made to promote longevity and reliability of the unit."

You can find an FAQ online. No price yet.

The Sound of Talk Talk - Candy | Vintage Synth Recreation

video upload by RetroSound

"A vintage synth recreation of Talk Talk – Candy from the 1982 album The Party’s Over, performed using original classic hardware synthesizers and electronic drums.

This cover uses the legendary PPG Wave 2.2 synthesizer, Oberheim OB-Xa, Moog Source for bass, and Simmons SDS 8 electronic drums to capture the authentic early 1980s new wave sound of Talk Talk. From shimmering digital textures and warm analog pads to punchy synth bass and iconic electronic percussion, every part was recreated with real vintage instruments.

If you love classic synth pop, new wave, retro electronic music, analog synthesizers, and the unmistakable sound of early Talk Talk, this performance shows the work with the gear from the past.
Check the original track. Written by Mark Hollis."



Merch: https://retrosound.creator-spring.com/
Bandcamp: https://retrosound.bandcamp.com/

Tickle The Ivories - 1st Demo of the New Upcoming PPG Wave 2.3

video upload by WPalmWT

follow-up to this post.

"My first jam with the new PPG Wave 2.3
Info on this beautiful machine: https://ppgwave23.com"

PPG Wave 2.3 w/ New Display

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

via this eBay listing

This one was spotted and sent in via
M Me.

"The Ultimate PPG Wave 2.3 – Serviced & Refurbished – Collector's Condition

CLICK FOR MORE »

New PPG 300 Coming to Synthfest France

Details:

"At this year’s SynthFest France, Cornel Hecht and Dr Walker from the Liquid Sky artistcollective go full in.

They will present a prototype of the PPG Modular 300.

A cult classic reborn

Like the legendary PPG 1002 Mk2, the PPG 300 is built entirely by hand, one unit at a time.

Each component is carefully selected, not just by specification, but by ear.

Every vco is individually tested and matched, acknowledging the subtle variations that make analog circuits come alive.

The team promises finest analog sound:

Raw, deep, and precise enough to satisfy the most demanding ears.

Visitors are invited to experience the instrument in person at the Liquid Sky booth, talk to the Liquid Sky family, and dive into their universe of music / experimental films / trees and dada art.

If you can’t make it to Synthfest France, the PPG 300 sound monster will appear live at the 303 Years of Liquid Sky Cologne at Artheater Cologne Ehrenfeld on may 30.

https://de.ra.co/events/2251932

The first PPG 300 units are expected to ship later this year."

PPG 1002 with Antonus 2600 and Step Brother

video upload by Antonus

"What happens when three legends meet in one session? We recently had a PPG 1002 at the studio and couldn't resist: we patched it together with the Antonus 2600 and the Step Brother for a pure analog jam."

PPG's Wolfgang Palm Opens a Very Special Birthday Present

Unboxing my birthday present video upload by WPalmWT

"Unboxing a present from my friend Daniel Saxlid.

Infos on the product:
https://ppgwave23.com"

Looks like a new PPG Wave 2.3 rackmount synth is in the works!

The Sound of Depeche Mode – Emulator II & Emax Sampling Synthesizer

video upload by RetroSound

"Step into the iconic sound world of Depeche Mode and explore how their legendary tones were created. In this demo, we recreate classic textures using the original E-mu Emulator II and the Emax SE vintage sampling synthesizer. From atmospheric pads to punchy, industrial sequences, deep bass sounds, this video showcases the authentic sound design techniques that defined an era.

The DM sound list:
0:06 The Things You Said
0:19 Get The Balance Right
0:30 Never Let Me Down Again (Aggro Mix)
0:41 Shake The Disease
0:52 Home
1:05 But Not Tonight
1:18 Halo
1:30 It`s Called A Heart
1:43 Stripped
1:58 People Are People
2:12 Behind The Wheel
2:26 Everything Counts
2:42 Waiting For The Night
2:56 Something To Do
3:08 In Your Room
3:21 A Question Of Time
3:33 Never Let Me Down Again
3:47 Black Celebration
4:03 Pipeline"

PPG EVU Expansion Voice Unit (Wave 2,3)

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

via this Vemia listing

Click the auction link on top when you get there for additional listings.

"**NO UK VAT** PPG EVU - eight voice expander unit Super Rare! A PPG Wave 2.3 in a box!! Comes with Interface cable. Superb condition and working order. Just supply your own IEC mains lead. VEMIA can collect and pack (18GBP)."

CLICK FOR MORE »

PPG 1002 Jam

video upload by ms20user

"Jamming with the PPG 1002. The lovly OSC1 Triangle Wave with a small amount of OSC 2 Sawtooth. Reverb and Delay. All other sounds are PPG 1002 Samples except the Pad and the Drums.
#ppg1002 #synth #synthesizer #musician #studio #analogsynth"

RetroSound Studio Tour: Vintage Hardware Sampler from the 80s

video upload by RetroSound

"RetroSound Studio Tour: Classic Hardware Sampler from the 1980s

In this episode of RetroSound Studio, I explore legendary vintage hardware samplers that shaped early digital music production. From professional 8-bit and 12-bit studio machines to iconic toy sampling keyboards, these instruments defined the sound of 1980s electronic music, hip-hop, experimental, and synth-based production.

The E-mu Emulator II became one of the most iconic 8-bit samplers ever produced, known for its warm analog filters and unmistakable character. The E-mu Emax brought professional sampling to more studios with its gritty 12-bit sound. The PPG Waveterm, paired with the PPG Wave system, represents one of the earliest digital sampling and wavetable workstations in synthesizer history.

On the experimental side, the Casio SK-1 and Yamaha VSS-200 introduced affordable lo-fi sampling to a generation of musicians, becoming cult classics for their crunchy digital tone and creative limitations.

These vintage samplers shaped genres such as synth-pop, early hip-hop, industrial, experimental electronic music, ambient, and film scoring. Today, they remain highly sought after by producers and collectors researching vintage hardware samplers, 80s sampling technology, Emulator II sound, Emax workflow, PPG Waveterm history, and lo-fi sampling keyboards.

If you are interested in classic digital sampling, early electronic music production, or rare retro studio gear, this RetroSound Studio episode offers an in-depth look at some of the most influential samplers ever built."

The Vintage Sampler:
0:07 E-MU Emulator II
4:43 E-MU Emax SE
8:38 PPG Waveterm A
11:20 KORG DSS-1
11:57 CASIO SK-1
13:03 YAMAHA VSS-200