Ultravox - Dancing With Tears In My Eyes | 80s Vintage Synth Cover | Emulator II

video upload by RetroSound

"Ultravox – Dancing With Tears In My Eyes

Originally released in 1984 as the second single from Ultravox's seventh studio album, Lament, Dancing With Tears In My Eyes became one of the band's biggest international hits and remains a defining classic of the 1980s New Wave and Synthpop era. The song reached No. 3 on the UK Singles Chart and became a Top 10 hit across several European countries.

For this cover, I used a selection of legendary vintage synthesizers and drum machines to recreate the iconic sound and atmosphere of the original recording as authentically as possible.

Instruments:
Rodina Alisa 1377 – Analog Bass
Oberheim OB-Xa – Pads & Synth Textures
E-MU Emulator II – Piano, Choirs & Additional Samples
LinnDrum – Drum Machine
Simmons Electronic Drums – Classic 80s Electronic Percussion"

Website ► https://retrosound72.wixsite.com/home

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/

Simmons SDS1000 Drum Module

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

via this listing

Additional Perfect Circuit listings

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Talk Talk – Life's What You Make It | Vintage Synth Cover | Oberheim OB-Xa & Emulator II

video upload by RetroSound

"A Vintage Synth cover of the timeless 1985 classic 'Life's What You Make It' by Talk Talk, recreated using iconic vintage instruments to capture the unmistakable sound of the original era. The song was originally released as the lead single from The Colour of Spring and became one of Talk Talk's signature New Wave hits.

Vintage Gear Used:
• Oberheim OB-Xa – Pads & Organ Sounds
• E-mu Emulator II – Guitar Riff & Piano
• LinnDrum – Drum Machine
• Simmons Drums – Electronic Drums & Percussion

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."

SDS7 2262 Top 10

video uploads by The Simmons Guy



Playlist:

1. SDS7 2262 Top 10 - "Quick demo of 10 of my favorite Kits"
2. SDS7 2262 SDX FUSION KIT EPROMS - "Quick demo of SDS7 loaded with Simmons SDX eproms"
3. SDS7 2262 ALT EPROMS - "Quick demo of SDS7 2262 loaded with alternate eproms"

Roland JX-3P | Vintage Analog 80s Synth Demo

video upload by RetroSound

"Step back into the golden age of analog synthesizers with this original retro-inspired demo track by RetroSound.

Created using the legendary Roland JX-3P synthesizer and the iconic Roland VP-330 Vocoder Plus, this piece captures the unmistakable sound of the 1980s—lush analog pads, classic synth leads, warm basses, and vintage vocoder vocals.

If you love authentic 80s synth music, retro soundtracks, synthwave, new wave, and vintage electronic music, this demo is for you.

Gear Used:
• Roland JX-3P Synthesizer (1983)
• Roland VP-330 Vocoder Plus (1979)"

7/1/26 Roland TR-909 & RE-201 + ElectroComp EML 400/401 + SDS1 + Dukane 2a76 + MIDIVERB 2 + CXM 1978

video upload by Cfpp0

"This video is shot at a more revealing angle than usual, to document the setup before we change it. When we added an EML 400/401 to our EML 200, we made custom shelves to line the three panels up on a table. But we got a great deal on a second EML 200 during the pandemic, so that got installed on a metal shelf over the first EML 200. The studio kept growing over the years, with lots of revisions on how it is all arranged, but the EML 400/401 hasn’t moved an inch. I never liked this hockey stick configuration and have always felt the EML 400/401 is a bit underutilized. This summer we’ve decided to move the 400 above the 401, creating a big EML block, so that the 400 is closer to the 200s, to the Buchla system, and so it’s easier to reach everything at once.

Anyways, the point of this patch was to use V1 on the right set of stages to reset the left set of stages. It’s a fun trick because you can control when and how often you want to reset the sequence using the sliders. The TR-909 is externally clocked by ALM Pamela’s New Workout at 130bpm. The kick and rim shot are saturated by the Dukane 2a76. The snare sound is the Simmons SDS1, triggered by the rim shot trigger output on the 909. The EML 401 filter is in high pass mode. At 0:43 I drop the kick, unmute the clap and hats, and turn off the voltage control of the envelope, which makes it sound like a goose. At 1:13 I change the TR-909 pattern and switch the routing of the lower voltages on the 400, from V4 to V3 and from V3 to V4."

Simmons SDS 8 - Better sounding beats

video upload by Stazma

"Today I want to show you a simple trick I've been enjoying a lot to make sounds that are more to my taste with that SDS8 I've been given by one of my brothers a few years back: you can trigger two voices at once using a splitter or mult!

This opens up the sound design palette quite a bit and I prefer to have less sounds in number to make them sound better (or at least to my taste).

Have fun!!!"

00:00 Intro
01:39 SDS 8 Basic operation
03:33 How to trigger two voices at once
06:45 SDS 8 goes Jungle!
08:29 SDS 8 goes Eurorack

A Potted History of Drum Synthesizers

video upload by Alex Ball and Nathan Curran Tugg the Drummer (Tugg)

"A look at a niche within a niche, the drum synthesizer; a story that begins in the late 60s and continues to this very day."

0:00 Intro
0:25 Definition of a "Drum Synthesizer"
2:24 Precursors, DIY and Impakt
4:03 Star Instruments Synare
5:09 How these Instruments Worked
6:13 Syndrum: The First Famous Drum Synth
8:45 Ult-Sound: Japan's First Drum Synth
10:10 Pearl & Tama: Here Come The Drum Companies
13:20 Simmons: The Zeitgeist
19:21 The Flood Gates & Mega-Montage
24:48 Soviet Offerings
25:17 Decline and the Splitting Point
27:05 Vermona: A New Era
29:28 Elektron: Blurred Lines
30:58 A Plethora of Machines
32:24 Clavia/Nord: Simply Red
33:39 Modern Day: The Culmination
34:44 Summary & Thanks
35:23 Patron Outro Jam

Update:

1/14/26 Simmons SDS6 + TAMA DS200 + Alesis MIDIVERB II + CXM 1978

video upload by Cfpp0

"This is one of two videos I recorded for the great Alex Ball (‪@AlexBallMusic‬) to use in his video about the history of drum synthesizers. I’m using the Simmons SDS7 to trigger the two halves of the TAMA DS200, with reverbs from the Alesis MIDIVERB II and the CXM 1978. The DS200 is running hot through the MIDIVERB II, overloading the preamp. The CXM 1978 has a long predelay in lo-fi mode to create a grainy pitchy echo."

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."

4/23-26/26 Metasonix S-1000 + Ladik S-143 + DSP 808 + Roland TR-606 + Simmons SDS1 + (…)

video upload by Cfpp0

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/

Margaret Thatcher at EMI Abbey Road Studios Simmons Drums DX7 Juno 60

video upload by Con Brio Synthesizers

"Maggie visits the famous studios in 1990 - watching a mixing session, visiting Mike Batt, hoping to meet Kate Bush (no) and playing a JUNO 60 and DX& and ?? plus rocking the SIMMONS DRUMS before going back to work..."

How do you one-up Krafwerk? With Margaret Thatcher of course.

Simmons SDS6 Super Sequencer w/ Memory Issue

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.

"Simmons SDS6 rare drum sequencer. Very rare drum / trigger sequencer. In great cosmetic condition. Many of the push buttons have recently been replaced. **It comes up with ‘memory error’ so it will need a service.** No UK VAT charged. 115V.

VEMIA can collect and pack: 18GBP."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Jean Michel Jarre in his Home Studio 1987

video upload by Bleu Lezard

This one is in via in via Ivan Trajkovic aka deejayiwan.

"Visit of Jean Michel Jarre's studio at his home in Croissy in 1987 as part of the 1pm newspaper presented by William Leymergie on French Television Antenne2, for the release of the album: 'Houston Lyon in concert'. Fairlight and ARP2600 demo.
Mixing: Denis Vanzetto.

I kept this document on a VHS tape in the attic for 20 years. I'm happy to have kept it for so long and, thanks to Youtube, to share it with you!

I would be delighted to share my music with you:
👉 Web: https://bleulezard.com
👉 Digital platforms: https://linktr.ee/bleulezard
👉 Instagram: / _bleulezard"

Rest in Peace ~ Chris Rea 🌠

video upload by RetroSound

"(c)2007-25 by RetroSound
supported by UVI: http://bit.ly/retrosound-uvi

One of my favorite tracks from the late 70s.
Fool (If You Think It`s Over) by Chris Rea from the album Whatever Happened to Benny Santini? (1978)

I’m saddened...😞
His music has been the soundtrack of my life. I loved his melodies, I loved his lyrics, and I loved his voice. Driving Home for Christmas, On the Beach, and Josephine are timeless classics that I always turn up loud whenever I hear them on the radio.

I was fortunate enough to get an Amiga license record in 1988 after queuing for hours at the music shop. Holding one of the few records in my hands brought me so much joy, especially since Western music was only available under the counter in the GDR.
Rest in Peace, Chris. Your music will live on forever. Thank you.🌠

RetroSound synthesizer demo videos since january 2007.
Everything is free. If you like my work, you can also support me with the purchase of my merchandise stuff or my music.
Shop: https://retrosound.creator-spring.com/
Bandcamp: https://retrosound.bandcamp.com/"

Simmons SDS3 with pads- stunning instrument

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.

"I was always a little surprised by how valuable these Simmons SDS3s are, and put it down to their extreme rarity and the wow factor of owning something from the Musicaid Simmons era. But I've been listening to what this machine can do, and I begin to see there is so much more. It is simply a genius design. The variety of sounds is stunning - it's almost like a fully-featured four-voice synth as well as a great drum synth. FM is brilliant, and the whole design (using permanently running ladder filters for the oscillators?) is mind-blowing.

This example, serial number 0072, is in perfect working order, after literally days of restoration by nLi. Cosmetically, the SDS3 itself looks great. The knobs are not original but look pretty nice, there are some small scrapes and marks on the panel and wood endcheeks, but overall it could be 8/10 especially given its age. The pads are very well used, but have been thoroughly restored and are totally functional and original.

To get more info about the SDS3, check out where Alex Ball has done his usual excellent rundown:" [posted here]

CLICK FOR MORE »

This Analog Synth Will Blow Your Mind – Introducing the Behringer SDS-3!

video upload by Behringer

Follow-up to this post.

"Discover the Behringer SDS-3, the analog synth that rewrites the rules of drum machines! With powerful sounds and full control, the SDS-3 is perfect for those looking for intense vibes, crushing bass, and unique percussion. It’s the synth you didn’t think you could have, but one that will make you fall in love with every beat.

From the raw energy of analog drums to more experimental sounds, the SDS-3 delivers everything you need to create unforgettable music, whether live or in the studio.

Watch this video for an engaging performance and see how the Behringer SDS-3 can transform your sound!"

Sequenced with the Behringer RS-9.

Building a Synthwave track from autumn inspirations 🎹🍂

video upload by RetroSound

"(c)2007-25 by RetroSound
supported by UVI: http://bit.ly/retrosound-uvi

Synthwave with the Yamaha DX7 II and the Roland Juno-106.
A ride on my motorcycle through the autumnal countryside around my town in middle of germany. 🍂

Roland Juno-106 Analog Synthesizer (bassline, add sounds)
Yamaha DX7 II (main theme, fx sounds, strings)
E-MU Emulator II Sampling Synthesizer (guitar sample)
Simmons SDS8 e-drum module
LinnDrum drum machine

❤️ You can support the RetroSound​ channel:
synth tees: https://retrosound.creator-spring.com"

Tiptop Audio 230t & a Simmons Pad - First Patch [No Talk]

video upload by Stazma

"More infos and affiliate links in the description // Support on Patreon to get samples from this session: / stazma

This was the very first patch I did when I got the 230t from Tiptop. I wanted to check if I could use my Simmons drum pads with it. I also wanted to know how it would behave as an envelope generator using pulses from the 200t system itself so I used the 245t to trigger it and act on a droning 259t.

Then I just played around and that's the result."

Also see New Tiptop Audio & Buchla 230t Tips and Tricks by Todd Barton aka vgermuse.