More than just "KNOBS IN A BOX" // RETROAKTIV MPG 50 // Roland Alpha Juno/universal MIDI Controller

video upload by Starsky Carr

0:00 Intro
2:00 Special Bits
3:27 Hardware
5:25 A Simple Controller
10:00 Assigning Controllers
12:07 MIDI Mapping
12:41 Automating Macros
13:33 Adding Modulation Capabilities
15:39 Patch Generator
17:58 Utilities
19:07 Navigating the Menus
20:49 Final Thoughts

Retroaktiv Angling Rackmount System Demonstration

video by Retroaktiv Synthesizers

Pretty cool. It's 5U.

Korg DW-8000 Vintage Analog Hydrid Synthesizer and Retroaktiv DW-8P Programmer

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

via this auction

"The Korg DW-8000 has been unsung hero for decades but has finally been getting the credit it deserves. The dual DWGS oscillators are amazing and offer some really unique waveforms you wont find anywhere else. You’d be hard pressed to find another feature rich synthesizer: four oscillator modes (Poly 1 & 2, Unison 1 & 2), a 24 dB VCF filter, 2 unique 6 section envelope generators (ADBSSR), digital delay, velocity, aftertouch, and an arpeggiator.

The DW-8P programmer gives you hands on control over every parameter and more. The patch generator feature is among the best and most consistent ive ever used and can be sound specific (pads, bass, bells, analog, digital, random and more). The added EFX section gives new sonic territory to an already lethal unit.

Both units are fully functional. The #2 button on the front panel takes an extra press sometimes and the occasionally the highest A or A# note (but not the key) will hang (a power cycle will fix it). The Korg has some scratches normal for its age and the DW-8P is practically flawless.

The DW-8000 is unsung is great at dark airy strings, PPG-like pads and thick unison bass."

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MPG-8X Controller for the MKS-80 Super Jupiter | Review

video by Espen Kraft

"I've been so lucky to be the first to try out the new MPG-8X from Retroaktiv, for the mighty Roland MKS-80 Super Jupiter from 1985.

The Super Jupiter was one of the pros most used synth modules in the 80s. It appears on countless hit records and all debate set aside, it really is the best of both the Jupiter 8 and Jupiter 6, all rolled into one box. I will focus on the Super Jupiter in the next video, and why it's still so coveted, but this video is all about the controller itself that really crushes the original MPG-80 in terms of features and usability, although I freely admit that the original is still desirable and if you're a purist only the original will do. From practical standpoint the MPG-8X is really the best of the two, by far.

Again, a big thanks to Anders Jensen for loaning me his MKS-80, but also to Brynjulf Blix for loaning me another MKS-80 for the review. I will show some very cool footage of how the modules actually found their way to my studio, in the next video, the MKS-80 video."

Roland MKS-70 & MPG-70 Controller | The Perfect Match!

Published on Feb 13, 2020 Espen Kraft

"Using the last of the Roland monster analog synths from 1986, the MKS-70 and the Super JX (JX-10) can be tedious when it comes to editing. Even with the original PG-800 controller from Roland.
But with a Vecoven Firmware chip V.3 and the MPG-70 controller from Retroaktiv, things goes a lot faster and smoother."

Some details on the Vecoven mod:

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Using MPG-70 Patch Generator With 4.x Vecoven Super JX

Published on Feb 12, 2020 Retroaktiv Synthesizers

"This is an unedited video snippet showing the MPG-70 generating a series of random patches. The MPG-70 has an intelligent patch generator that randomizes the tone parameters of the JX to make musical sounds. It's one of my favorite features of the controller. This video is just me noodling and auditioning sounds."

See the Retroaktiv label below for more.

Retroaktiv DW-8P Controller For EX-8000, DW-8000 & DW-6000

Published on Feb 11, 2020 Retroaktiv Synthesizers

"This is part 1 of a 2 part video giving a walkthrough of the DW-8P controller. The first section of the video describes the basic parameters, controls, and MIDI setup options.

The second half of the video focuses primarily on the sound creation capabilities of the unit, such as the patch generator, and the optional MXB-1 memory card."

Retroaktiv DW-8P posts

The Controller Duel | PG-800 Vs. MPG-8 | Roland JX-8P/MKS-70/SuperJX

Published on Jan 3, 2020 Espen Kraft

"If you're looking for a controller for the Roland JX-8P/MKS-70/JX-10 you have many options.
The classic original controller, the PG-800 is great if you're a collector mostly concerned about the authenticity of your collection. The original controller works very well IF the faders are still working ok.
The MPG-8 from Retroaktiv is great if you want a new controller that has some extra features, is small and ready for the Vecoven mods for these synths.

Check it out here: https://retroaktivsynthesizers.com/

The opening music is called "We Can Do It" and is mostly made with a actual Roland JX-8P. The song can be found here: https://spoti.fi/2MNbOow"

RETROACTIV DSS-P Programmer for KORG DSS-1 Sampling Synthesizer

This one was spotted and sent in via Ryan. Details via RETROACTIV:

"This listing is a pre-order for the upcoming DSS-P programmer for Korg DSS-1 Sampling Synthesizers. The product is under development now, and is expected to begin shipping around May or June 2020. Discounted pre-order price is $835. MSRP after pre-order period is expected to be around $899.

Features:

DSS-P will feature 64 30mm sliders, corresponding to the program parameters on the DSS-1.
5.5" x 3.2" full color touch screen for deep editing
Patch generator feature that will intelligently generate musically useful pads, polysynths, basses, bells, clavichord, string sounds and more. Patch generator will allow users to "mask" any sections of the synthesizer, so the masked sections will not be changed when a new patch is generated.
On-board multisound banks will feature custom Retroaktiv samples of classic synthesizer waveforms from Minimoog, ARP Odyssey, ARP Omni, Rhodes Chroma and more.
Ability to download full lists of program parameters, multisounds, and PCM data and display all information on the touch screen.
Assignable X-Y controls on the touch screen for modifying multiple parameters at once with the XY.
Operating system of the DSS-P can be updated using a MIDI SYSEX file, allowing for continuous feature updates and future OS developments.
Data entry can be done using the touch screen and the encoder/cursor buttons.
CC to sysex translation of program parameters
Sleek powder-coated metal enclosure measures 8.75" (5U) x 17" x 3". Optional rack ears can be purchased when units are shipping.
MIDI IN, MIDI OUT, MIDI THRU


IMPORTANT NOTES: The DSS-1 does not allow for smooth parameter changes when edited by sysex. This means that when most parameters are changed, there may be audible hiccups as the DSS-1's output buffer is altered. This is due to the design of the DSS-1 and is not being caused by the DSS-P. Many parameter changes will not be heard until a new note is keyed on the DSS-1"

Check out the RETROACTIVE label for additional synth controllers.

Two DW-8000's controlled with DW-8P

Published on Sep 28, 2019 Retroaktiv Synthesizers

"In this video, I'm using two DW-8000 synths, along with the 'velocity controlled ramp generator' feature of the DW-8P controller, to use velocity to "scoop" into notes. The harder I play, the more scoop there is. I also have an ASSIGN set up on the DW-8P, which routes my mod-wheel to control the VCF cutoff and DETUNE of both DW-8000s."

Retroaktiv DW-8P | Controller for the Korg DW-8000/6000 and EX-8000

Published on Sep 13, 2019 Espen Kraft

"The DW-8P is a controller that can be used with the Korg DW-8000 (as I show in this video), the DW-6000 and/or the EX-8000. The controller can control TWO synths at the same time.
In addition to controlling every parameter of the synth, the DW-8P has some extra features as a ramp generator, patch generator and advanced CC and sysex capabilities. New features can be added by updating the firmware.
Check out the home site of the manufacturer for more info:
https://retroaktivsynthesizers.com/"

How to load new firmware on Retroaktiv MIDI controllers

Published on Aug 15, 2019 Retroaktiv Synthesizers

"This video shows how to load firmware onto Retroaktiv MIDI controllers using a MIDI file and a DAW. If using MPG-70 or DW-8P programmers, the only difference not shown in this video is that to enter the bootloader, you hold the encoder in while powering up. Everything else is the same.

For more info, visit www.retroaktivsynthesizers.com

Music is performed by Space Junk is Forever. Composed by Jordan Holt. Song: Space Junk is Forever Album: Space Junk is Forever I, available on iTunes and Spotify.
https://spacejunkisforever.bandcamp.com/"

MPG-50 | Review | You want a controller for your Alpha Juno?

Published on Aug 8, 2019 Espen Kraft

"The MPG-50 controller from Retroaktiv. A controller for your Roland Alpha Juno 1/2 or MKS-50. This controller has a lot of features, among them a cool "assign" function that lets you program in different parameters to be controlled from ONE fader. There's also a very sophisticated patch generator for different types of sounds. The programmer can controll two different units at once, and it can also be used as a generic controller for any VST synth that accept CC."

Retroaktiv - PG-800 Mini - Roland JX-8P Modification - Midiverse - TV

Published on Jul 30, 2019 Midiverse - TV

"What's up everybody? Welcome to Midiverse - TV! Today we're going to be looking at a modification for the Roland JX-8P, this is the PG-800 Mini internal kit from Retroaktiv. This adds the functionality of the PG-800, let's check it out!"

Retroaktiv - PG-800 Mini

Retroaktiv PG-800 MINI Assembled Desktop Controller

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

via this auction

See this post for a demo.

"The PG-800 Mini is a compact controller for the Roland JX-8P, Super JX, and MKS-70 synthesizers. This unit comes fully assembled, tested, and ready to be plugged into a JX. Units are available in black gloss and matte black cases.

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Retroaktiv MPG-50 - Using the MPG-50's Assignable Control System

Published on May 15, 2019 Retroaktiv Synthesizers

"The MPG-50 is a dedicated controller for Roland Alpha Juno 1 & 2 and MKS-50 synthesizers. While the MPG-50 serves as a replacement for the PG-300 programmer, it has far more capability and functionality. In this video I am demonstrating the ASSIGN function of the MPG50, which allows users to assign up to 5 parameters simultaneously to sliders A and B, as well as an expression pedal. Incoming mod wheel, breath controller, or aftertouch can also be assigned and routed to any parameters on the synth.
Here I am using the mod wheel and aftertouch simultaneously to control 6 Juno parameters at once. This can make very complex sounds with the Juno, and the data can be played back to the MPG50 and replicated."

Retroaktiv MPG-50 MIDI Programmer for Roland Alpha Juno 1, 2, and MKS-50

Retroaktiv MPG-50 Walk-through (With talking) Published on May 12, 2019 Retroaktiv Synthesizers

"Retroaktiv MPG-50 is a fully featured MIDI programmer for the popular Roland Alpha Juno 1 and 2, and the MKS-50 rackmount synthesizer. The MPG-50 is a compact 370mm (14.5") x 149mm (6") x 40mm (1.5"). It features 37 sliders and knobs which control all of the features included on the original PG-300 plus more. The unit is housed in a high-quality rugged powder-coated metal enclosure. Optional powder-coated rack ears are available for an additional $25.

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Retroaktiv MPG-70 Random Tone Generator & Assign

Published on Dec 9, 2018 Retroaktiv Synthesizers

"In this video I'm using an MPG-70 to layer 3 randomly generated pads over, then I use the assignable controllers to animate the pad."

"MPG-70 is a 7U rackmountable/desktop controller for JX-10, JX-8P, and MKS-70 synthesizers. The MPG-70 features panel knobs and sliders to control all 44 original PG-800 parameters, plus all extra parameters added by the Vecoven firmware and PWM upgrades. (See www.Vecoven.com for more info about the upgrade) The MPG-70 can control 2 JX synths at a time, and users can control each synth individually, or simultaneously.

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Retroaktiv SSH Basic Functions Video

Published on May 2, 2018 Retroaktiv Synthesizers
Update: video - Re-Published on May 2, 2018

"This video gives a quick overview of the Retroaktiv SSH's SLOPE, SLEW, SYM/ASM, and RISE FALL functions."

You can find details on Retroaktiv's SSH eurorack module here.

Retroaktiv SSH Complex Sample & Hold and Waveform Generator with Noise Source

Playlist:
1. Retroaktiv SSH - Explaining SLOPE and SLEW functions in 30 Seconds
2. Retroaktiv SSH - Sequencing with SSH and Alpha Juno
3. Retroaktiv SSH - Syncronizing SSH to a sequencer

"Complex Sample & Hold and Waveform Generator with Noise Source

SSH is a random voltage generator and wave shaper. This S&H has a built in LFO and noise source, allowing for stepped and slewed random waveforms to be generated without any patching or external modules. The stepped S&H waveform can be accessed directly from the STEP output jack, or the waveform can be run through an "intelligent" slew limiter, which allows for smooth slewing between steps. The on-board slew limiter is equipped with a shaping circuit, which allows for the slew to vary between the classic R-C type of glide and linear glide. SSH features some other unique functions, which allow for an amazing variety of waveforms to be generated.

On-board LFO with voltage controlled rate, normalized to the sample & hold trigger generator. External triggering input jack as well.

Sample & hold generator is normalized to an internal white noise source, allowing for "random" stepped waveforms to be generated. External signals between +/-8V can be sampled using the EXT input jack. Stepped S&H output can be accessed using STEP output jack.

Separate output for slewed S&H waveform. (SLEW) Slew amount is voltage controlled. Slope of the slewing is voltage controlled and can be varied between a classic RC glide and linear glide. Using the RISE/BOTH/FALL switch, slew can be active when the S&H waveform is rising, falling, or can be always active (switch in middle position)

SLOPE can be controlled using external CVs. If the SLOPE input is fed a negative voltage, then the slope of the output waveform becomes 0 (A horizontal line), and the voltage is held at the last S&H voltage until the SLOPE CV becomes positive again. For example, if a +/-5vpp square wave were fed into the SLOPE CV input, and the SLOPE CV knob were slowly turned from 0 to max, while the square wave input is less than 0V, the SLOPE output will be held at it's last value, the positive half of the square would determine the slope of the output waveform. The "pause" feature is only available when in SYM mode.

Symmetry control switch - By using the SYM/ASM switch, slew slope can be "opposite" on rising and falling waveforms. If the SYM mode is selected, the slope of the slewed waveform will correspond to the SLOPE CV controls. If ASM is selected, when the slewed waveform is rising, the current SLOPE setting will be applied. When falling, the "opposite" SLOPE setting will be applied. This allows for RC or linear curves to be applied when the S&H waveform is rising, and the opposite curve to be applied when falling, which allows for unique output waveforms to be created. A rear panel header provides separate 5V RISE and FALL gate signals.

This module is 10HP and packs a sophisticated sample & hold generator, waveshaper, and noise source into a compact module."