TMP-3-03 Vintage Synth TV Series from Benge

video upload by Memetune Studio

00:00 Opening Titles
00:17 Introduction
01:27 Switched On 80s
16:14 Synthesiser Club
19:48 Commercial Break
23:57 Patching Today
35:04 Little Black Boxes
38:53 Video Lab
44:22 Outro

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Episode three of the third series of the TV program from Benge, made at his Memetune Electronic Music Studio

The series explores his passion for vintage synthesiser instruments and studio gear and how he uses them in his productions and collaborations

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It is divided into the following sections:

SWITCHED ON 80s - This third series takes an in-depth look into six classic 80s synthesisers, selected because of their interesting and unique attributes

SYNTHESISER CLUB - A short musical demonstration of a synthesiser classic or three, concentrating on 'families' of synths

COMMERCIAL BREAK - Some shameless Memetune shilling

PATCHING TODAY - A deep-dive into vintage modular systems and how to set up a patch on them, starting from scratch, this time using Cybersynthesis techniques to bring an element of surprise to the patches

LITTLE BLACK BOXES - A further look at some classic rack mount studio gear of the 80s and 90s

VIDEO LAB - A look at old video equipment and how to create experimental visuals, concentrating on a specific device in each episode

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In THIS episode:

SWITCHED ON 80s - A detailed presentation on FM synthesis and its history, looking at the DK Synergy (as used on the Tron soundtrack), but mainly the Yamaha DX series of synths

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1981 Digital Keyboards Inc. DK Synergy SN 01225

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

via this listing

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DK Synergy II+ with MIDI + Kaypro 2 computer + manuals + pedal + all sound banks (upgraded & serviced)

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

via this listing

SN 01646 & 74313

"Digital Keyboards Inc. Synergy II+ synthesizer with MIDI and Kaypro II computer, original owner's manual and all other information about connecting and editing in PDF, all factory and Wendy Carlos sounds on board of the Kaypro, SD cartridge as an extra backup of the sound banks and to save your own sounds, sustain pedals and custom made hardcase available for sale. It's a complete system which you won't find anywhere else in the world at this moment.

Both the synthesizer and the Kaypro have been serviced. Dani Wilson (Hideaway Studios, UK) serviced the Kaypro computer and added two Gotek disk emulators pre-loaded with the SynHCS Host Editor and voice/cart library. The old power supply has been replaced by a modern SMPSU version. The synthesizer got a new psu too, has been recapped and the keyboard contacts were cleaned. The RS-232 SIA cable is also new. Both the service invoices are included as a proof of what's been done exactly. We didn't save money to bring this beauty set back to life.

The Synergy is a very much more powerful synth than many realize - having two complete sets of 16 stage loopable envelope generators per operator which morph between high and low velocity acting on 32 digital oscillators with a remarkable amount of fluid modulation control available all in 16-bit digital audio is just mind blowing for a design that came out of the mid 1970s.

If you want to go deep into the programming side of the synth you need the Kaypro II computer. The complex synth engine gives you the ability to build up sounds from the ground on. It's a joy to build rich pads and melancholic film music sounds. The new owner will receive a testing video with information how to edit sounds prior to the packing process.

Optically there are some signs of use, but the overall condition is very good. The black case of the synth has some scratches, small dents, some missing parts at the edges. The tolex has sings of use too. The upper plastic panel of the SD cartridge is missing and the cartridge itself is in used condition. The Kaypro has some small scratches on the metal case and keyboard. There is a custom made hardcase for the synth which has signs of use too. Please check all the photos and ask for more photos if something is not clear enough.

Both the units are set to 240v. The serial numbers are: 01646 (DK Synergy) and 74313 (Kaypro II)"

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Synergy Synergize Synergia 2024

video upload by Ross Totino and Fans of Collision

"Demo of original presets I've created using the Synergize editor with the Crumar DK Synergy synthesizer, and then recorded with the Synergia emulated version of the Synergy on an iMac M1. Synergize editor by Steve Tynor available at https://chinenual.github.io/synergize Synergia by Jari Kleimola available at https://jariseon.github.io/synergia/"

0:00 Shimmer
0:57 PercSweep
01:47 ADDSWP2
02:26 BRASSBAS
03:04 BUZZBUD
03:35 CRYSTAL
04:25 ORBITER
05:40 CONTAKT
06:38 SHIPTRIP
07:35 MODFUN
08:40 ORGSWP
09:45 STLDRM
10:46 SHIPTRIP
11:45 VOICIFOR

You can find additional posts featuring Synergia here.

Synergize/Synergia Tutorial: FM Algorithms (Digital Keyboards Synergy)

video upload by Lantertronics - Aaron Lanterman

Synergia emulator: https://jariseon.github.io/synergia
Synergize patch editor: https://chinenual.github.io/synergize

0:00 -- Introduction
0:47 -- Connecting
1:35 -- FM algorithms
4:24 -- Patching with registers
10:50 -- Limitations
11:35 -- Harmonic numbers
11:56 -- Detuning
12:15 -- Waveforms
12:55 -- Semitones
13:31 -- Envelopes
14:21 -- Experiments

DK Synergy: Origins of an Additive/FM Synthesis Powerhouse (Synergia softsynth + Synergize editor)

video upload by Lantertronics - Aaron Lanterman

0:00 -- Introduction
1:57 -- Famous users
3:01 -- Sample packs
3:17 -- Synergia softsynth
4:13 -- Synergize patch editor
5:09 -- Bell Labs/Hal Alles synthesizer
5:49 -- Crumar GDS
6:45 -- Mulogix Slave 32
7:16 -- Setting up Synergia+Synergize
9:23 -- Patent
9:37 -- Facebook group
9:58 -- Dani Wilson
10:14 -- Alex Ball

Also see DK Synergy II+ with Kaypro and Synergize talk about editing software

TMP-2-05 Vintage Synth TV Series from Benge

video upload by Memetune Studio

00:00 Opening Titles
00:32 Introduction
01:19 Little Black Boxes
04:41 Switched On Cybersynths
17:31 Synthesiser Club
20:38 Commercial Break
23:02 Patching Today
37:24 Video Lab
41:15 Outro

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Episode five of the second series of the TV program from Benge, made at his Memetune Electronic Music Studio

The series explores his passion for vintage synthesiser instruments and studio gear and how he uses it on his productions and collaborations

////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

It is divided into the following sections:

LITTLE BLACK BOXES - A look at some classic rack mount synths of the 80s and 90s

SWITCHED ON - This second series looks at a type of synthesis based around the ideas of Cybernetics, which Benge calls CYBERSYNTHESIS

SYNTHESISER CLUB - A short musical demonstration of a synthesiser classic or three

COMMERCIAL BREAK - Some shameless Memetune shilling

PATCHING TODAY - A deep-dive into vintage modular systems and how to set up a patch on them, starting from scratch

VIDEO LAB - A look at old video equipment and how to create experimental visuals

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In THIS episode:

LITTLE BLACK BOXES - The Korg Wavestation was released in 1990. This rack mount module version, called the Wavestation A/D, was released in 1991

SWITCHED ON CYBERSYNTHS - Ramdomness Tamed. A look at the EMS Random Voltage Generator and the Buchla 200 version of the Magnetic Freak Gaussian module

SYNTHESISER CLUB - Today, its Club Crumar! Featuring the DS2, the Multiman Mk2 and the Synergy digital system

COMMERCIAL BREAK - Some adverts for Memetune related goodies

PATCHING TODAY - on the Buchla 100 - trying to tame the beast!

VIDEO LAB - In this episode we look at some SFX shots and the Ultimatte chromakey system


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LINKS:

Polyrythmic Electronica vinyl / Systems of Objects: https://systemofobjects.bandcamp.com/...

Benge's Studio Blog: http://myblogitsfullofstars.blogspot.com

Memetune Studio Instagram: @ memetunestudio

Benge & Memetune Merch on Bandcamp: https://zackdagoba.bandcamp.com


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The MemeTune Programme Credits:
Everything in this video was created by B D Edwards (Benge)
All music, design, writing, filming and production completed at Memetune Studios, UK, 2024

Benge - Forms 15 "Dawn" made on the DK Synergy

video upload by zack dagoba

"New album by Benge - part 15 of his FORMS Series - albums made on one synthesis system. Here is an ambient album made entirely on a Digital Keyboards Synergy II+ and Lexicon Model 200 / Primetime early digital FX

https://zackdagoba.bandcamp.com/album...

'The pure digital sounds of the D K Synergy, and the two very special effects units from the same year (1984), feature the same no-compromise approach to digital sound production, which in the early 80s was a very new territory for manufacturers and musicians to explore. To my ears, these abecedarian digital devices have a purity and warmth that is particularly suited to simple ambient pieces of music such as those presented on 'Dawn'. In some ways, it was the dawning of a new era for electronic music in general, and one which I happily reexplore on this album'"

Dawn - D.K.Synergy ambient music by Benge

video upload by zack dagoba

"Good morning!

Here is an ambient study by Benge, made on the D.K.Synergy digital synthesis system, Lexicon Model 200 reverb and Lexicon Prime Time Model 95 Stereo delay unit, SSL SiX mixer/compressor, SSL 2+ sound card. Shot on JVC KY-1900 video camera. Font used: Lazenby Computer. Field recordings of the dawn chorus, England, April 27th, 5:37am"

Walnut Digital Keyboards Inc. (DKI) Synergy II +

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

via this auction

"This unit is the Synergy II +, which means it has MIDI and an RS-232 port for communications. It would normally hook up to a Kaypro (!) computer for sound storage and editing, but these days, some crafty folks have made interfaces available to connect to modern computers."

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Digital Keyboards Synergy DKII+ with Kaypro 2 and programmer

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

via this auction

"Synergy DKII+ rare vintage digital synthesizer made by Digital Keyboards in New Jersey in the early 80s. It has a super valuable programmer upgrade that stores 24 preset cartridges internally which you can load as banks right from the front panel. No need for the actual cartridges with this one as it has the massive preset library onboard.

Also included is a working Kaypro 2 computer for essential deep programming of the instrument.

If you are reading this, you likely know what these are and their historical significance in the FM canon."

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80's Digital Synth Percussion

video upload by Bata

"Digital Keyboards Synergy MK1
Casio CZ-101"

Digital Keyboards Synergy MK1 Makes a Beat

video upload by Bata

"Using the sequencer on the DK Synergy to play back a beat. The sequencer has 4 channels and is a little tricky to program but it allow you to play 4 different sequences and play a 5th sound over top. Using a cartridge of sounds called VCart2."

Digital Keyboards Synergy From 1982

video upload by Bata

"Messing around with some sounds on the DK Synergy. This is the MK1 version so no MIDI and no connectivity to the old Kaypro computers that work with the MK2. I have a couple cartridges for it with extra sounds one programmed by Wendy Carlos called Bells/Whistles and one called VCart2 which has some drum sounds and other things. I play a few of those sounds here along with some of the stock presets. It has a cool but weird 4 track sequencer so it's possible to sequence 4 different sounds and play a 5th over top. No way to sync it with other gear though."

Dk Synergy Synth Control Panel

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

via this auction

"DK Synergy Synth front control panel for PARTS/REPAIR AS/IS NOT-WORKING."

Z3 P/N13-06 PANEL
ENCODER PCB REV2.

Some pics of the inside back panel for those interested and for the archives.

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TMP-04 Vintage Synth TV Series from Benge

video upload by zack dagoba

Additional Vintage Synth TV episodes by Benge

"The Memetune Programme Episode 04

00:00 Opening Titles
00:35 Introduction/Coming Up Today
01:16 Switched On - Digital Synths Part One
23:47 Commercial Break
25:08 Synthesiser Club - Moog Modular
27:20 Patching Today - Roland 100M
41:40 Video Lab - Video/Audio sync
46:14 Outro/Coming Up Next Time

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Fourth episode in the new six part series of programmes from Benge made at his Memetune Electronic Music Studio

The series explores his passion for vintage synthesiser instruments and studio gear and how he uses it on his productions and collaborations

////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

It is divided into the following sections:

SWITCHED ON - Featuring in-depth discussions about the history and development of the synthesiser over the years, including demonstrations and feature guides of many classic and iconic instruments

SYNTHESISER CLUB - A short musical demonstration of a synthesiser classic or three

PATCHING TODAY - A deep-dive into vintage modular systems and how to set up a patch on them, starting from scratch

VIDEO LAB - A look at old video equipment and how to create experimental visuals

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In THIS episode:

SWITCHED ON DIGITAL SYNTHS (PART ONE) - a brief history of digital synthesis featuring some classic vintage instruments such as the Korg DW6000, Yamaha DX5, Emulator II and DK Synergy II+

SYNTHESISER CLUB - Moog Modular 3C

PATCHING TODAY - on a vintage Roland 100M

VIDEO LAB - the syncing of video to audio

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LINKS:
Benge's Studio Blog: http://myblogitsfullofstars.blogspot.com
Memetune Studio Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/memetunestudio
Benge on Bandcamp: https://zackdagoba.bandcamp.com

////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

The MemeTune Programme Credits:
Everything in this video was created by B D Edwards (Benge)
All music, design, writing, filming, editing and production completed at Memetune Studios, UK, 2022"

Crumar Digital Keyboards Synergy II+ w/MIDI Vintage Synthesizer

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

via this auction

Included: Extensive documentation, sustain/sostenuto pedal which is essential for accessing amazing performance features. 5.25" CPM disks with presets and editing software. ROM chips with original sound lybrary. USB to RS232 cable for editing sounds with the new Synergize application."

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Jordan Rudess plays the Syner-V modern virtual synthesizer from Syntronik 2

video upload by

"Watch Jordan Rudess plays one of the classic synths of Syntronik 2 - the Syner-V. The Syner-V is based on the Digital Keyboards Synergy ii+ with its wide range of unique soundscapes and glassy, metallic tones. Although it did not officially use the term 'FM' due to Yamaha’s trademark, the Synergy did employ the same basic technology of the GS and DX series as well as the Synclavier FM synthesis."

Jordan Rudess plays the OSC-V modern virtual synthesizer from Syntronik 2

video upload by ikmultimedia

"Watch Jordan Rudess plays one of the classic synths of Syntronik 2 - the OSC-V. The OSC-V is based on the Classic analog-filtered digital monosynth sounds of the Oxford Synthesiser Company OSCar, a British classic. Sometimes called the 'British Minimoog,' the OSCar can sound deceptively analog and ultra-fat despite its digital oscillators."

You can find additional Syntronik 2 posts here.

EarthBound Soundtrack Played On A Super Rare Synthesizer ✨🌏✨

video upload by Critical Beach Town

"These days, the Synergy is a super rare synthesizer to come across in the wild. Originally produced in 1982, it is estimated that less than 100 are still in operation across the globe. Interestingly, it ran off cartridges, something it had in common with the Super Nintendo!

Recently, I had the opportunity to recreate some of my favorite music from EarthBound on a Synergy. This video demonstrates some of the sound textures the synthesizer is capable of, while showcasing a beloved soundtrack through a unique lens.

Title Screen: 0:00
Sunrise & Onett Theme: 0:13
Buzz Buzz's Prophecy: 1:50
Dr. Andonuts' Lab: 3:12"

syn1

video upload by zack dagoba

"The original Syn...

Digital Keyboards Synergy, recently fixed-up and serviced by Dani at Hideaway, who is THE synergy fixerupper (he used to muck about at Bell Labs as a kid because his dad worked there. This synth was developed there by Hal Alles and crew in the 1970s)

I'm really going to enjoy getting to know this beast

I had to find a Kaypro computer and some other bits and bobs to get this system complete. Its been a long and difficult road, but got there in the end. Thank-you Dani!"

DK Synergy II+ with Kaypro and Synergize talk about editing software

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

"This is a completely restored Synergy II+ in a perfect condition and the best possible bundle you could imagine. It's up for sale:"

via this auction

"Hello. My name is Andrei Kudryavtsev. You probably know this because you're tracking my listings. This is a completely restored Synergy II+ in a perfect condition and the best possible bundle you could imagine.

Following upgrades have been performed on this system:

New power supply for a digital section, way more efficient and robust. Re-cap'ed analog power supply. instagram.com/p/BjmGR4WgLH3/
Upgraded cooling for less noise and better airflow.
New II+ upgrade board by Bob Grieb from Tauntek. This adds II+ Serial and MIDI connectivity, latest OS and 23 cartridges pre-load and accessible with a push of a button.
Cleaned boards, keyboard contacts
Everything is working. Comes together with a Kaypro computer running editing software (mint, same restoration cycle, upgraded power supply, two floppy emulators for Drive A and Drive B). Comes with Raspberry Pi and an optimized Kaypro emulator as well as Synergize control software.

All work is carefully documented and available in my Instagram with all dates it was performed. instagram.com/deftaudio/

This system needs a new home, a person who will be using it to make the music and not being distracted by common failures. All of those have been addressed to make your life easier and bring new life into this wonderful machine. I should say a disclaimer anyway, that as is a vintage gear....it may fail any moment...and obviously no return offered. However, I'm offering you my help in learning this great machine, and so you get 10 hours of my time at no charge. You can use it for whatever you want - set up and install online, learning session, tutorials, technical support etc... I want to make you happy.

What's included into the package:

1. DK Synergy II+

2. Kaypro Computer

3. Raspberry Pi

4. Apple Monitor, Apple Keyboard, Apple Mouse

5. Serial switch box and all required serial cables and adapters

6. All necessary cables."

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