Crossing the threshold: New Systems Instruments’ “discrete map”

video upload by Electrum Modular

"New Systems Instruments sent me their new module, Discrete Map. It’s a deep module, with lots of potential uses, so I’ll be dedicating the next few videos to it. This first, introductory video uses it as a generative sequencer, extracting an evolving melody from a Lorenz chaos trajectory."

"Novum! New Systems Instruments has created a unique and innovative approach to generating sequences with Discrete Map.

New Systems Instruments consistently surprises with innovative designs! Discrete Map fits right in, taking a simple concept and turning it on its head. At its core, it’s an 8-step sequencer that can output a traditional step-by-step sequence. The pitch values are set using the eight upper faders, but what makes it truly special are the eight lower faders, which determine which step is played at any given moment.

The sequencer’s X input accepts any signal, a clock, an LFO, or even another sequence. The lower faders set threshold values, and the switches below them define whether they react to a rising or falling edge. This means the sequence jumps to different steps based on the incoming signal, creating a highly controllable form of randomness! The results are striking! Complex rhythms and surprising melodies that become even more dynamic when paired with the expander for voltage-controlled step selection.

Discrete Map also includes an onboard oscillator. A switch toggles between a slow and fast frequency range. When slow, it functions as a standard step sequencer. Another switch changes from Position mode (explained above) to Length mode, where the lower faders control step duration. When switched to the fast mode tho, it becomes a graphic oscillator that tracks V/Oct.

To round out the package, Discrete Map includes additional utilities for better integration with other modules. The precision adder for example allows an external voltage to transpose the entire sequence.

The A/B/C Expander further enhances functionality, adding three assignable groups for the steps. Each group gains CV-controllable threshold values and dedicated gate outputs for active steps. And because that´s not enough there's also a sequential switch. Several discrete maps and A/B/C expanders can be linked together!

Overall, an incredibly well-thought-out and entirely fresh approach to sequence generation!

Features:

8-step sequencer for a single track
Generates sequences based on any input signal
8 lower faders to position steps in time
8 upper faders to set step values
One-shot mode
Oscillator mode with V/Oct tracking
Adjustable output voltage range (-5V to 5V / 0V to 5V / 0V to 2.5V)
Precision adder for transposing sequences
Gate output
Ramp output for internal clock signal"

And an overview from DivKid:

Bend & Twist Time with Voltage Addressed Sequencing // Discrete Map from New Systems Instruments
video upload by DivKid

"Here’s the new Discrete Map and expander from New Systems Instruments. Deeply routed in influence from the Buchla MARF & a Serge Modular style approach to sequencing, coupled with a heady mix of physics and electronics (as New Systems Instruments do so well) the Discrete Map allows you to use voltages to bend and manipulate a time map across 8 stages of voltages. From basic to more advanced sequencing, unique time and rhythm creation to some bonkers graphic VCO applications there’s a lot we get into in the video."

Tutorials | MiniFreak - Firmware Update 4.0 | Vocoder Edition

video upload by Arturia

"Explore the new MiniFreak Vocoder Firmware 4.0 - a powerful update for transforming voice, drums, and other audio sources into wild textures. Learn how to set it up, tweak its unique parameters, and push your sound into new territories, from classic roboticized vocals to futuristic sound design."

Daniela Pes | MiniFreak Vocoder Performance | ARTURIA

video upload by Arturia

"From Sardinian ritual incantations to surgically-shaped vocoder choirs, Daniela Pes ( / daniela___pes ) makes electronic music that is both personal and ethereal. We met the Gallura-born singer, composer and sound explorer at a special location near her hometown in an abandoned silver mine to see how MiniFreak Vocoder keeps her ideas mutating in real time."

Update: pics of the new white Vocoder Edition.

"A bright white chassis, orange accents, and a 30 cm gooseneck mic/stand turn MiniFreak into a self-contained performance hub—plug, play, and freak out."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Moog Muse and the unfortunate case of some mildly dodgy waveforms?

video upload by Tim Shoebridge

"In this video I compare the basic waveforms on my Moog Muse with another Moog synth (a Matriarch) to illustrate some potential issues I am having with my particular unit. Do you have any of the issues I describe? Have you needed to contact Moog support for assistance with your Muse and, if so, what was the outcome? I'd love to hear your experiences."

Update: and a response:

The waveforms on my Moog Muse looks fine to me

video upload by TjimmyChonga

"I came across this video by Tim Shoebridge where we showed that on his Moog Muse, the waveforms are all out of whack. I haven't noticed anything of the kind, so I decided to take a look at mine."

Clatters Machines Introduces SONORA Spectral Mixing Output Module

Video Manual upload by Clatters Machines

Chapters:

0:00 Meet Sonora
0:09 What's Sonora?
1:15 Headphones on!
1:30 12 pre-panned inputs summing mixer
1:59 Dive into stereophony possibilities
4:18 Pro Line outputs
4:28 Headphones output and loudness indicators
4:35 LED meter and soft clipping limiter circuit
4:53 Why Sonora?
5:15 Ciao!

"Sonora is a 6HP, skiff friendly, spectral mixing output module designed to be the ultimate sound stage of your eurorack setup.
A place where all your mixes meet and find a stereophonic solution for your final track thanks to its twelve fixed panning inputs that allow you to give each track its own space and importance in the stereo field. While being a 12 inputs summing mixer, Sonora also features a LED meter, a soft clipping limiter circuit at the output stage, a headphone output section with loudness indicators and 3.5mm pro line output jacks.

Features:

12 pre-panned audio inputs:
2 hard left inputs;
2 hard right inputs;
2 mid left inputs;
2 mid right inputs;
1 low left input;
1 low right input;
2 mono inputs;
3.5mm stereo headphones socket (300mW headphone amp @200Ω impedance) with dedicated volume control and stereo LEDs loudness indicators;
3.5mm pro line outputs jacks (+4dBu);
master volume control;
stereo LEDs meter with 0dB reference indicator;
soft clipping limiter circuit;"


Update: press release follows:

"Clatters Machines announces availability of Sonora spectral mixing output module as ultimate sound stage for Eurorack setups

SAN BENEDETTO DEL TRONTO, ITALY: small town lovers of music and electronic instruments Clatters Machines is proud to announce availability of its Sonora spectral mixing output module — aimed at acting as the ultimate sound stage for Eurorack setups by being marketed as a place where all of a user’s mixes meet to find a stereophonic solution for the final track, thanks to 12 fixed panning inputs that allow each track to breathe in its own space while also determining its importance in the stereo field — as of May 23…

Translated to generally meaning sound (in English), sonora is actually an Italian feminine adjective that stands for loud, resonant, ringing, and sonic — depending on the context in which it is used; however, in the context of Sonora being aimed at acting as the ultimate sound stage for Eurorack setups as Clatters Machines’ latest module, who better, then, to introduce it than company Co-founder, engineer, designer Michelangelo Nasso. “A compact, final sound stage module was an obvious — and needed — choice for us,” he begins, before briefly detailing how it came into being: “As musicians, we’ve always struggled with headphone/output/mixing modules. Most modules in this field take up way too much space inside a case — space that we’d prefer to fill with other effects, sound sources, and utilities. And although some other output
modules are super-small, which is nice, they usually lack features, so we tried to solve this problem with what we think is the
perfect combination of what’s already out there.”

Think 12 pre-panned audio inputs — including two hard-left inputs, two hard-right inputs, two mid-left inputs, two mid-right inputs, one low-left input, one low-right input, and two mono inputs. “So Sonora has 12 pre-panned audio inputs, which is great if you’re composing with multiple sound sources,” says Michelangelo Nasso, continuing: “We came up with the idea of additionally assigning a fixed panning space to each input, so the possibility of creating a perfectly stereo balanced final track is pretty straightforward.”

Further features abound, as Michelangelo Nasso notes: “Once we created what is basically a spectral 12-input summing mixer, we decided to go all in and added all the features we think are a must for an end-of-chain module, such as a 3.5mm stereo HEADPHONES socket, with dedicated volume control and stereo LED loudness indicators; 3.5mm pro LINE outputs; stereo LED meter, with a 0dB reference indicator; and a soft clipping limiter circuit, which we believe is always handy, both to protect your gear and spice things up!”

And as if that is not an exciting enough prospect in itself, all those features fit neatly into a 6HP-wide module with an anodised brush aluminium front panel that is available in either black or silver, so standing out from the sound of the crowd with what is surely the ultimate sound stage for a Eurorack setup also applies to what a Sonora purchaser prefers that proposition to look like.

Sonora is available worldwide — with a choice of silver- or black-coloured aluminium front panels — from Clatters Machines’ growing global network of retailers (https://clattersmachines.com/retailers-3/) or directly via its online Store (https://clattersmachines.com/shop/) for €245.00 EUR (plus VAT). For more in-depth information, please visit the dedicated Sonora webpage here: https://clattersmachines.com/prodotto/sonora/"

Check dealers on the right for availability.

miniKORG 700Sm - Full Feature Overview of Korg’s Vintage-Inspired Analogue Synth

video upload by Korg

"Take a dive into the miniKORG 700Sm – the modern evolution of our first-ever synthesizer.

Explore its rich analogue architecture, iconic features, and the new additions that make it perfect for both studio and stage.

🔸 Authentic dual VCO analogue synthesis
🔸 Classic Traveller filter and effects
🔸 Built-in arpeggiator for rhythmic inspiration
🔸 Save and recall sounds with patch memory
🔸 USB and MIDI connectivity for studio integration
🔸 Vintage design with modern enhancements

With its retro aesthetic and powerful new features, the 700Sm offers vintage tone with modern versatility. Find out what makes this synth so inspiring."

miniKORG 700Sm - The Synth The Started It All, Reborn.


miniKORG 700Sm - First 5 Minutes with Luke from Korg

New GRP A10 Flagship Synthesizer Incoming

These in via John L Rice.

Left: front panel layout.

Below: PDF with full details. Click on each pic to zoom in.

Update: "The Grp A10 will cost €10,000* plus VAT and will be available at the end of 2026."

CLICK FOR MORE »

A Magic Pulsewave Introduces the OBLIQUENCER

video upload by A Magic Pulsewave

Update: New video:

OBLIQUE DUB JAM

video upload by A Magic Pulsewave

"OBLIQUENCER sequencing three+ synth voices in dubspace."




OBLIQUENCER is a melodic and rhythmic sequencer which uses basic pattern building blocks to create musical sequences. It outputs three channels of tuned analog control voltage, and three channels of analog gate signals. Unlike typical sequencers, the user does not enter sequences note-by-note. Instead, the user sets pattern behaviors and routes the resulting patterns internally to melodic and rhythmic parameters, thereby generating musical phrases or compositions. OBLIQUENCER is capable of creating traditionally musical sequences, as well as more unusual, asynchronous, and poly-rhythmic, patterns. OBLIQUENCER may even uncover for the user, a direct understanding of the mathematical nature of the melodic patterns humans emotionally enjoy. Two external inputs can be routed to clock, gate, or trigger any of the internal sub-modules. all internal patching and routing is achieved via pin matrices, with a total of more than 150 patch points. Tuning is entirely variable, and each control voltage output is capable of covering more than a 5 octave modulation range, at one volt per octave.

OBLIQUENCER comes with 40 patch pins and is housed in a handmade wooden enclosure.

OBLIQUENCER SUBMODULES:

(2) CLOCK LFOS- Create continuous square clock at user-defined rate.
(2) "DECADE RINGS" - 2 to 10 step gate sequencers
(2) "RIPPLE GATE SEQUENCERS" - clock dividers with the ability to mix each division /2 through /4096 into a gate signal.
(1) "RIPPLE MELODY SEQUENCER" - 3 bit CV pattern generator using mixed clock dividers to generate CV note pattern sequences. Continuously tunable 0-5V.
(1) MELODY BIT INVERSION MATRIX - Allows patching of other modules into the melody sequencer to alter or generate melodic patterns.
(2) "HARMONY REGISTERS" - Generate accompaniment automatically based on pattern data from the Ripple Melody Sequencer and trigger inputs. Each has independent CV tuning and output.
(3) GATE OUTPUT MATRICES - Allow routing of internal modules to trigger/gate external modules.
(2) EXTERNAL INPUTS - Gate/clock/trigger inputs to allow external control of the internal modules.
(1) AMP LINK - For connecting to AMP "Expandoor" and "Wave Expander" expansion modules. Outputs the three gate outputs, the three melody control bits, and the central clock signal on a network cable.

OBLIQUENCER SPECIFICATIONS:

DIMENSIONS: 10" X 10" X 2.5"
DC INPUT 15V DC 1A 2.1MM CENTER POSITIVE
GATE/CLOCK INPUTS: 3.5MM, 3.5 TO 12V PEAK 0 - 10,000HZ POSITIVE EDGE TRIGGERED
GATE OUTPUTS: 3.5MM 10.5V DC PEAK UNIPOLAR
CV OUTPUTS: 3.5MM 0 - 5V CONTINUOUS, UNIPOLAR

www.melodyoracle.com

Introducing ASM Manager : Walkthrough Tutorial

video upload by ASM Ashun Sound Machines

"The ASM Manager is a software librarian designed to ease organization of your Hydrasynth patches as well as updating your Hydrasynth firmware.
For more information please head to Ashunsoundmachines.com
The new ASM Manager is a dedicated desktop application designed to simplify how users interact with their Hydrasynth. It replaces the original Hydrasynth Manager with a refreshed interface and smoother workflow, making sound management more efficient and intuitive.

Features include:
• A redesigned, user-friendly UI
• List View for streamlined patch browsing
• Patch Sorting by name, category, and color
• Search by patch name
• Color tagging directly within the browser
• Organize Favorites
• Integrated Hydrasynth Updater for simplified firmware installation
• Export of patch banks as Microsoft Excel® list files for easy referencing

Whether organizing sound libraries, performing updates, or customizing Favorites, ASM Manager enhances everyday interaction with Hydrasynth."

Update: press release follows:

Ashun Sound Machines heightens Hydrasynth experience with new ASM Manager app and Firmware 2.2 update

LOS ANGELES, CA, USA/HONG KONG, CHINA: music hardware brand Ashun Sound Machines (ASM) is proud to introduce the new interaction-simplifying ASM Manager desktop application alongside the stage and studio reliability-improving Firmware 2.2 update for its critically acclaimed line of Hydrasynth digital wave morphing synthesizers — effectively enhancing their performance and usability in the process of doing so — as of May 15…

As a dedicated desktop application designed to simplify how users interact with their Hydrasynth, ASM Manager replaces ASM’s original Hydrasynth Manager with a refreshed UI (User Interface) and smoother workflow, making sound management more efficient and intuitive. Incorporated features include LIST VIEW for streamlined patch browsing; sorting by Patch name, Category, and Color; searching by Patch name; color
tagging directly within the browser; organising by Favorites; integrated UPDATE DEVICE facility for simplified firmware installation; and EXPORT LIST of patch banks as Microsoft Excel® list files for easy referencing. It is fair to say, then, that ASM Manager enhances everyday interaction with Hydrasynth — whether organising sound libraries, performing updates, or customising Favorites.

Firmware 2.2 focuses on performance enhancements, improved system stability, and adding seamless compatibility with ASM Manager. Indeed, it ensures that every Hydrasynth model delivers consistent and reliable operation on stage and in the studio. Since the original Hydrasynth Keyboard and Hydrasynth Desktop debuted in 2019, followed by the flagship Hydrasynth Deluxe and compact Hydrasynth Explorer in 2021, the Hydrasynth family has earned a reputation for its sonic depth, expressive performance capabilities, and forward-thinking interface. Its latest updates continue to refine that foundation.

Acting as a fresh source of inspiration to accompany its introduction of the new interaction-simplifying ASM Manager desktop application alongside the stage and studio reliability-improving Firmware 2.2 update, ASM is offering Hydrasynth Special Edition Patch Bank as an exclusive collection of 128 new patches created by some of the top sound designers in the industry. It showcases the expressive power and versatility of the Hydrasynth engine, covering a wide range of sonic territory from ambient textures to bold, playable leads, and is available to download — from here: https://www.ashunsoundmachines.com/downloads — for free, ready to import into ASM Manager itself.


Hydrasynth Keyboard, Hydrasynth Desktop, Hydrasynth Deluxe, and Hydrasynth Explorer are available to purchase via ASM’s growing global network of dealers/distributors (http://www.ashunsoundmachines.com/dealers) at a MAP (Minimum Advertised Price) of $1,299.00 USD; $799.00 USD; $1,799.00 USD; and $599.00 USD, respectively, and a MSRP (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price) of €1,899.00 EUR; €1,119.00 EUR; €2,499.00 EUR; and €789.00 EUR, respectively.

The Firmware 2.2 update is available for free for owners of all Hydrasynth models; for further information on installation and what is included, download the Firmware 2.2 Pack — including ASM Manager, a changelog, and a Quick Start Guide — from here: https://www.ashunsoundmachines.com/downloads

Groove Synthesis: 3rd Wave 8M - SUPERBOOTH2025

video upload by Bonedo Synthesizers



"The most accessible way to the 3rd Wave sound

You’ve discovered the synth industry’s best-kept secret: the 3rd Wave 8M — bringing Groove Synthesis’ award-winning wavetable technology to more studios, stages, and creative spaces than ever before. This isn’t a watered-down version. This is 8 voices and 2 parts of pure, uncompromised 3rd Wave DNA in a more accessible, compact package. Same premium sound engine. Same analog filters. Same innovative synthesis. Just more accessible to more producers and musicians.

ACCESS ALL AREAS

The performance-oriented control set featuring a generous 7” display with six encoders gives you the confidence to create the sounds you’ve always envisioned.

COMPLETE SYNTHESIS TOOLKIT

Choose from wavetable synthesis, analog-style synthesis, FM, and sampling for each of the three oscillators to create rich and expansive soundscapes.

• 8 Voices of full 3rd Wave sound engine with complete patch compatibility
• Bi-timbral operation with two independent parts
• Premium analog filters and output stages—identical to our flagship models
• Multiple synthesis types: wavetable, analog-style, FM, and sampling
• Streamlined interface with larger, more intuitive display
• Compact desktop format that fits your creative space

CLASSIC LEGACY – MODERN SOUND

While the 3rd Wave has roots in the classic digital wavetable synths of the past, it takes that concept into the 21st century with a lush, expansive sound that’s a product of its expanded wavetables and warm, organic analog filters.

It boasts not only a punchy, Dave Rossum-designed 2140 analog low-pass filter with variable saturation, but a second, SEM-style state-variable filter (low-pass, high-pass, notch, and band-pass) for additional tone-sculpting. Run both filters in series for harmonically complex textures."

Update: and the press release:

ORINDA, CA – May 8, 2025 – Groove Synthesis, the innovative synthesizer company known for its award-winning 3rd Wave 24-voice advanced wavetable synthesizers, today announced the 3rd Wave 8M – a compact desktop synthesizer that brings the distinctive Groove Synthesis sound to a more accessible price point, without compromising on sound quality or core features.

Building on the success of the flagship 24-voice 3rd Wave models 24K and 24M, the new 8M features 8 voices of polyphony and bi-timbral operation in a streamlined desktop format. Priced at $1,999 USD, the 8M delivers the same premium sound quality and cutting-edge synthesis capabilities that have made Groove Synthesis a favorite among producers, composers, and performers worldwide.

"We created the 8M to bring the distinct 3rd Wave sonic character and sound design capabilities to more musicians and producers," said Bob Coover, co-founder of Groove Synthesis. "This isn't a watered-down version of our flagship 24-voice models. The signal processing chain, analog electronics, and the sound are the same as on the 24. The 8M just makes the 3rd Wave experience accessible to musicians, sound designers, and producers who don't need the full scale system.”

The 3rd Wave 8M maintains complete patch compatibility with the 24-voice 3rd Wave models, allowing users to seamlessly integrate the 8M into existing setups or upgrade to larger models in the future. The streamlined user interface focuses on performance-oriented controls while utilizing a larger, more intuitive display for deep sound design capabilities.

Key features of the 3rd Wave 8M include:

● 8-Voice Polyphony: Full 3rd Wave sound engine with 8 voices and three oscillators per voice
● Complete Synthesis Toolset: Wavetable synthesis, analog-style synthesis, FM, and sampling
● Bi-timbral: Two independent parts for layering and splitting
● Complete Patch Compatibility: Seamless integration with 24-voice 3rd Wave models
● 8 Analog Filters and Output Stage: The same premium analog filters and output circuit design as flagship 24-voice models, 24K and 24M
● Streamlined Interface: Performance-oriented, expressive control set with larger display
● Multiple Outputs: 4 balanced outputs for flexible studio integration
● Compact Design: Smaller footprint ideal for desktop or touring setups

"As a bunch of synth enthusiasts ourselves, we know that the sound is everything," said Andrew Silverman, co-founder of Groove Synthesis. "The 8M has the full DNA of our flagship models. We've carefully considered what matters most to musicians and sound designers, preserving the elements that define our sound while creating a more accessible entry point to the 3rd Wave sonic universe.”

The 3rd Wave 8M continues the Groove Synthesis tradition of combining vintage inspiration with modern capabilities. While the 3rd Wave has roots in the classic digital wavetable synths of the past, it takes that concept into the 21st century with a lush, expansive sound that’s a product of its expanded wavetables and warm, organic analog filters. The intuitive, performance-focused interface avoids menu diving for a natural control flow, preserving and adapting the vital parts of the keyboard’s controls in a compact format.

Frap Tools Magnolia, 8-voice analog thru-zero FM polyphonic synthesizer | Project update

video upload by Frap Tools

Click CC at the bottom of the player for subtitles.

"Magnolia will be an 8-voice analog through-zero FM synthesizer, which we built to create sounds from the modular world through a classic keyboard interface.

Waveshapers, wavefolders, and, most importantly, analog linear through-zero FM unlock every sound associated with the 'West Coast' synthesis world. But that's not all! Fat resonant filters and powerful analog oscillators allow more traditional subtractive synthesis sounds as well.

A vast and flexible modulation section encourages complex patches with the twist of a knob, but it is always easy to keep track of what's going on thanks to LEDs on every source and destination. An arpeggiator and a sequencer complement the machine.

We are announcing and showcasing two pre-production units. We aim to release the final version at the end of summer, and it will show some differences. It may have a more refined interface, it will feature digital effects, and some of the features currently under evaluation may disappear.

We've been working on it for the last year, and we're eager to show it to the world!"

Follow-up to this post where you'll find additonal pics.

Update: press release follows:

Frap Tools to take on high-end keyboard synthesizer market with ‘West Coast’ MAGNOLIA making its public debut at SUPERBOOTH25

MEDOLLA, ITALY: Frap Tools, hitherto known as a manufacturer of Eurorack modules and accessories alongside professional audio compressors in the 500-Series format, is proud to venture into the world of high-end keyboard synthesizers with its introduction of MAGNOLIA — announced as an 8-VOICE ANALOG THRU-ZERO FM SYNTHESIZER built to unlock every sound associated with ‘West Coast’ modular synthesis through a classic keyboard interface — anchored around showcasing two pre-production units at SUPERBOOTH25, May 8-10, FEZ-Berlin, Germany…

As an 8-VOICE ANALOG THRU-ZERO FM SYNTHESIZER, MAGNOLIA unlocks every sound associated with the so-called ‘West Coast’ modular synthesis world with waveshapers, wavefolders, and, most importantly, analog linear TZFM (Through-Zero Frequency Modulation) Indeed, its intentions are made clear from the outset by the on point wording worked tastefully into its (initial) top panel design. No need to necessarily remain there, though, for fat resonant filters and powerful analogue oscillators also allow for more traditional subtractive synthesis sounds. And although a deep and flexible modulation section encourages complex patches with the push of a button and twist of a knob, switching modulations on and off with the TOGGLE function, it is always easy to keep track of what is going on thanks to the inclusion of LEDs (Light-Emitting Diodes) on every source and destination.

Digging deeper, MAGNOLIA features eight analogue voices with two oscillators — carrier and modulator — and 24 dB/oct resonant HIGH-PASS and LOW-PASS filters; the carrier oscillator has a through-zero core for precise, sideband-rich analogue FM (Frequency Modulation) sounds, so crystal-like pads to growling basses are available to all with the greatest of ease, while FM can be applied to the filters. Furthermore, sculpting sounds that have not been heard before on analogue polysynths are now perfectly possible, thanks to MAGNOLIA’s unique signal flow — think continuously variable waveform shapes and a wavefolder circuit per voice!

Those two oscillators are derived from Frap Tools’ BRENSO (https://frap.tools/products/brenso/), a Euroack module readily representing its creator’s primary analogue source of articulated waveforms whose degree of entanglement can be precisely set by the musician. MAGNOLIA’s Oscillator 1 is the ‘West Coast’ one with TZFM, wavefolder, and FLIP SYNC, while Oscillator 2 is the ‘East Coast’ one, with PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) and fine-tune. Whether wanting experimental FM sounds or punchy synth brass, they are always at anyone’s service. Speaking of Frap Tools’ unique modular soul, MAGNOLIA’s filter section is derived from CUNSA (https://frap.tools/products/cunsa/) — itself a quadruple analogue ping-able multimode resonant filter, saturator, mixer, and oscillator, no less!

Musically, MAGNOLIA sports a keyboard from fellow Italians FATAR, with polyphonic aftertouch capabilities for enhanced expressiveness, while a per-part ARPEGGIATOR and per-part 16-step SEQ (sequencer) serve to creatively complement the synthesizer still further. Features briefly worth drawing attention to here by way of ending on some more high notes include MAGNOLIA’s bi-timbral programs (with SINGLE, MORPH, DUAL, and SPLIT MODES); all-analogue signal path; three loop-able DAHDSR (DELAY, ATTACK, HOLD, DECAY, SUSTAIN, and RELEASE) envelopes; three digital LFOs (Low Frequency Oscillators); and 512 preset memory slots.

Anyone attending SUPERBOOTH25, May 8-10, FEZ-Berlin, Germany can get up close and personal with two MAGNOLIA pre-production units by swinging by Booth B049 there. Their creators will be showcasing them personally, eager to show the results of their hard work, while providing a passionate warm welcome. Frap Tools aim to release MAGNOLIA as a production product by the end of summer, albeit with some differences evident by then. The interface will likely be more refined, featuring digital effects, while some features currently under evaluation could conceivably be removed."

New! SpaceBlender Experimental Reverb from Soundtoys

video upload by soundtoys

"SpaceBlender is a new experimental reverb that lets you create unreal and imaginary spaces – shapes, textures, and tones otherwise impossible in the real world.

Get it FREE at https://www.soundtoys.com through May 22."

Update: new video:

Introducing Soundtoys SpaceBlender

video upload by soundtoys

"Meet SpaceBlender, a new imaginary space machine from Soundtoys. It's an experimental reverb that create shapes, textures, and tones that don’t exist in the natural world.

In this video, we’ll walk you through SpaceBlender’s interface and demonstrate some cool ways to get started with the plug-in. From ambient soundscapes to reverse gated verbs, from skittering delays to wild pitch shifting– this deceptively simple plug-in has much to offer.

Get SpaceBlender FREE through May 8, 2025. Only at https://www.soundtoys.com."

Ample Synthesizer Sequenced by 64-Step Analog Sequencer (AS500-SEQ)

video upload by rezfilter

"Here’s a quick, dawless jam using the Ample Synthesizer and the AS500-SEQ 64-step sequencer. It’s a 3-oscillator patch where two of the oscillators are getting their pitch modulated separately by the sequencer, giving it a nice moving feel. You’ll hear some GLIDE on one of the oscillators at the start — making the notes slide around a bit — and later I dial it back for a tighter sound."

Check with dealers on the right for availability.

Update:

Ample Synth - Dark Industrial Patch with Filter Overdrive | Analogue Solutions

video upload by rezfilter

"Dark industrial patch on the Ample Synth from Analogue Solutions. The bassline steps in an uneven pattern while the cutoff is moved by hand. Pitch shifts come in through the touch pads, patched into the matrix. A second oscillator gets added to the filter, and later the envelope generators tighten up the shape. Nothing polished — just a heavy, gritty sound built straight from the hardware."

Analogue Solutions Ample Synthesizer | Selected Patches

video upload by rezfilter

"Here’s a selection of patches created entirely on the Analogue Solutions Ample synthesizer — no external effects, no added distortion. Just pure Ample.

Ample combines the best elements from several AS products:

-The rich sound engine of Fusebox
-The jack patch points of Concussor Eurorack
-The patch pin matrix of Vostok
-The built-in echo from Dr Strangelove
-The sequencer and CV touch pads from Generator

While it draws from these classics, Ample has a character all its own.

It can be as simple or as deep as you want it to be.

Ample is packed with a wide and diverse range of controls, giving even the most experienced synthesists endless possibilities through both knobs and patch sockets.

At the same time, its familiar layout makes it easy for newcomers to jump in and start creating powerful, musical sounds — especially when paired with this manual and other resources."

Yamaha Montage M & Genos 2 | SynthFest 2025

video upload by SynthFest France

Click CC on the bottom of the player for subtitles.

"La nouvelle série Montage M de Yamaha repousse encore plus loin les limites. Les synthèses FM-X et AWM2 se voient complétées par un moteur de synthèse complet AN-X, simulant les circuits analogiques et reproduisant leurs imperfections si musicales. Des écrans contextuels apparaissent à gauche du panneau, et le M8X signe le grand retour chez Yamaha du Polyphonic Aftertouch, longtemps après le CS80. Des commandes supplémentaires et une librairie sonores étendues en font un clavier ultime."

Googlish:

"Yamaha's new Montage M series pushes the boundaries even further. FM-X and AWM2 synthesis are complemented by a full-featured AN-X synthesis engine, simulating analog circuits and reproducing their musical imperfections. Contextual displays appear on the left side of the panel, and the M8X marks Yamaha's return to Polyphonic Aftertouch, long after the CS80. Additional controls and an extensive sound library make this the ultimate keyboard."

Update:

Yamaha Genos 2 | SynthFest 2025

video upload by SynthFest France

"Cyril Colom vous présente le Genos 2, l'arrangeur à la pointe de la technologie de Yamaha, issue d'une longue tradition de la marque.

Si vous pensez savoir à quoi vous attendre avec une démo d'arrangeur, vous risquez d'être surpris, avec la performance époustouflante de Richard Vecchi!"

Googlish:

"Cyril Colom presents the Genos 2, Yamaha's state-of-the-art arranger, a product of the brand's long-standing tradition.

If you think you know what to expect from an arranger demo, you might be surprised by Richard Vecchi's breathtaking performance!"

Ocean Swift Updates Porphyra Hybrid Synthesizer to Version 1.2

video upload by Ocean Swift / Faxi Nadu

"Ocean Swift updates Porphyra Hybrid synthesizer to version 1.2: New filters, new synth features, new presets"



via Ocean Swift

"Ocean Swift has updated their Porphyra Hybrid synthesizer for Kontakt 8.3.0 to version 1.2.

The update is available for free for all Porphyra Hybrid customers and brings lots of new additions, like new filters, wavetables and presets.

This isn't just a touch up - It's full on expansion!

New features:
.Added: Monark filter lowpass and bandpass flavors.
.Added: 85 New wavetables.
.Added: 107 additional snapshots by Fernando Abreu.
.Added: 25 additional snapshots by Yaron Eshkar.
.Added: 30 Combined Patterns Tool Multis.
.Added: 12 Combined layered Multis.
.Added: Blend mode in the wavetable mod oscillator.
.Added: White, pink, red and tuned noise in the wavetable mod oscillator.

Fixes:
.Wavetable mod tune was not displaying correct NKS2 polarity on load.
.A number of bipolar parameters were displayed as unipolar in NKS2.

If you want to get Porphyra Hybrid the best way would be to get the Purple Wave Bundle, that's on discount at the moment for 60% Off, limited time offer.

With Purple Wave Bundle you not only get to enjoy the cutting edge Kontakt 8 Synth, but also a Giant Wavetable Pack with 1000 new wavetables and Wavetable Creator software.

Purple Wave bundle 60% Off for 75€ (reg 189€) Until 20th April. https://oceanswift.net"

Teenage Engineering K.O. II Get's an Update

video upload by teenage engineering

Update: video above added.

via Teenage Engineering

"k.o. @ just got its first major os update! we’ve managed to pack a ton of new knockout features like resampling to remix and chop sounds, sidechain for groove control, song mode to arrange tracks of up to 9,801 bars, an optimized playback engine with increased polyphony, plus extended midi support.

Resampling

sample any sound source on or off the k.o. @, process it through effects and make a brand new sample from it."

Song mode

song mode adds the ability to chain scenes and create longer, more structured track arrangements.

Sidechaining

sidechain allows one sound to control the volume of another, perfect for kick and bass groove control.

More Polyphony

we’ve managed to increase k.o.@’s voice count, now supporting 16 mono or 12 stereo voice polyphony.

more midi

pass notes between units with midi thru, keep your gear in sync and pair up to 16 devices simultaneously."

https://teenage.engineering/apps/update

PlantsSystem-SingleRoom

video upload by plantssystem

"At SingleRoom, we performed an interactive set utilizing the Prophet-5 and 'M.' By blending the warm, analog tones of the Prophet-5 with the refined digital textures of 'M,' we created real-time sonic transformations.

This performance incorporated an improvisational approach, ensuring that each rendition unfolded with unique musical developments. By adapting the sound to the atmosphere and audience reactions, we provided a one-of-a-kind experience.

Harnessing the Prophet-5’s rich filters and the dynamic sound shaping of 'M,' we crafted deep, immersive synth sounds. Characterized by its simplicity yet profound depth, this performance stood as an exploration of the fusion of music and technology, offering listeners fresh inspiration."


Update: Some additional info via plantssytem on M:

"There is a deep relationship between Cycling'74's (MAX) M and ATARI M. Originally, ATARI M was developed by David Zicarelli, the current founder of Cycling'74, and Eric Amres, the founder of the 'Intelligent Sequencer Realtime' that I posted about last time. The prototype of MAX M is ATARI M. In addition, M was also released on the Commodore platform. I use ATARI M, which gives a more cutting-edge, direct and straightforward impression. The current ATARI emulation runs on Linux WattOS using Wine. I will send you the title splash of ATARI M and Realtime."

Mu Phrogs Analog Filter as a mono synth

video upload by flavio mireles

"3 Mu VCO's setup as super Saws. Going into 1 Phrogs Analog Filter. Basic Mono Synth configuration."

Mu Phrogs Analig Filter in Wave Folder Mode.

video upload by fAVc2LaqacM

"Wave Folder distortion was activated on the separate VCA mixer. This feature is found on the Mu Phrogs Filter."

Additional demos posted earlier here.

Bluelantern Mu Format Phrogs Analog VCF Poly Patch. Low Pass adventure.

video upload by flavio mireles

"Poly patch on a fully blue lantern modules Mu format system. I use (4) Phrogs filters, (4) VCO's, and a Yarns midi to cv. The fx are done using external behringer racks, connected to the soon to be released 4 channel Mu Mixer. Phrogs analog filter has an on board simple decay envelope generator, and a vca. You can easily make a poly patch. External modules used for control: BLM Active Multiple, BLM Joy rider Euro Format Joystick, and BLM MegaClite Digital LFO.

Low Pass filter output is demonstrated.

Each voice was panned left or right. This is done on the up coming Mu format 4 channel stereo mixer. One the lower (bass) voice, I added a Mu Format ADSR. Gate was daisy chained through the ADSR and into the Phrog's trigger input. In the video it has a large green square led."

Mu Format Phrogs Analog VCF 4 Voice Poly Patch. High Pass saga.

video upload by flavio mireles

"High Pass output is demonstrated. Filter output mixing: band pass, high Pass, low pass is also used.
Each voice was panned left or right. This is done on the up coming Mu format 4 channel stereo mixer."

Update:

Mu Format VCO demo

video upload by flavio mireles

"I use (2) VCO's to demonstrate CV's and the two sync's. An Mu Format ADSR was used for the sync. It has the square green led. The output was patched through the Mu Format 4 channel mixer. There are AC capacitors on the Mixer, this gives some slew to the wave forms. You can see the slew on the scope.You can't hear this distortion by ear to the waveform. Just about all audio gear has AC coupling, no big deal."

Disintegration of Voice into Water Drops

video upload by Element433 (a.k.a. Pere Villez)

"The Elementary Signal Engine is used to create the illusion of vocal disintegration into water drops and back. FOF synthesis was first created by Xavier Rodet in 1978 and though there has been some tentative implementations of FOF virtual none (outside Csound) have incorporated powerful features such as octaviation, jitter, formant bandwidth and FOFlet duration (all demonstrated here).

Copyright Pere Villez 2025"

At the Mountains of Madness (Lovecraft) on The Elementary Signal Engine

video upload by Element433 (a.k.a. Pere Villez)

"At The Mountain of Madness" inspired by the Lovecraft novel. Composed and played on my old 2014 clunky app "The Elementary Signal Engine" thinking of reviving it and creating a PD/Plug Data version" now that machines are much faster. I have the core part restored and starting to optimise it."

Buchla & Tiptop Audio 292t quad LPG (vactrol-free version) demo

video upload by Signal Sounds

Update: (Reuploaded with improved sound!)

"Tiptop Audio have finally released the long-awaited RoHS-compliant version of their Buchla 292t quad low-pass gate for the UK and EU market. The classic module has been redesigned without vactrols, which are now illegal in these territories - but how does it sound? Spoiler alert: pretty good. Tom puts it through its paces in this demo. Buchla bongos ahoy!"

The 292t is vailable here: https://www.signalsounds.com/tiptop-a...