"We found from our power survey that there's a real desire to power gear from USB, but some confusion around exactly how to do it.
We've been in the power game a long time, so we made PowerMyGear browser app to share our knowledge + experience, make it easy, and give you reassurance around powering your precious gear!
It's best enjoyed on a desktop, and totally free.
Use anonymously for quick try-out of setups OR make an account to save unlimited setups
Work with real-life space sizing, as all gear is to scale
Copy the link to share a setup with anyone
Explore others users' setups for inspiration
Device missing? No problem, just suggest it and it'll be researched + added in this ever-updating app."
"The format: come, bring a bit of gear if you like, definitely headphones, and hang out for the evening, staying for as long or little as you like. Play with the gear, plug stuff in, string stuff together, chat, catch up, share knowledge, or learn something new. And I’d have a change to show off the new myVolts Step-Up power tips, test them out with people’s real life rigs."
"At myVolts, we've been solving the power problems of gear users for the last 16 years. We’re taking a big step forwards with our next-gen power range, a decade in development.
We’re making it easier, safer, neater, with plenty of juice to power bigger gear longer.
It’ll be more compatible backwards and forwards: imagine the new wave of technology products coming, and legacy gear, all powered together in one simple ecosystem.
Fixed or mobile, from the casual noodler occasionally making sounds on the sofa, to the passionate, creative musician looking to get their space just right, it’s solves the power problems of just about everyone.
1. Synthfest UK 23: MyVolts - Nifty USB Power Solutions
At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with Caroline from MyVolts, and they've added to their panoply of useful power solutions for musicians. MyVolts showcased their new product, the Alchemist power distribution hub, which harnesses the versatility of USB-C to deliver various voltages from 5V to 20V. This means you can power a range of equipment, from vintage synths to modern gear, with one device. They've also taken their USB power innovation to the next level with a step-up 12V power tip, allowing users to draw 18W from USB to power gear like the Electron Analog Four on the go. MyVolts aims to simplify power management for musicians, addressing issues like earthing and noise, and they're actively seeking input from the community to fine-tune their solutions.
In addition to the Alchemist power hub, MyVolts will be releasing their own power banks, USB-C power cables with wattage indicators, and a range of power tips compatible with various voltages. This expansion means users can power a wide range of devices efficiently and conveniently. These products are expected to be available around February or March. MyVolts encourages you to fill out their survey to help them better understand and solve the unique power challenges musicians face.
2. Synthfest UK 23: Rides In The Storm - SED CSM Synth Voice
At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with Uwe from Rides In The Storm to get a glimpse of their upcoming modular synth voice module, the SED CSM. This module is a powerhouse of sound design possibilities, offering a wide range of features packed into a single unit. With two oscillator sections, three waveform options, pulse width modulation, and a wave folder, there's plenty of sonic flexibility on tap.
The SED CSM also includes a robust mixer section, a ring modulator, wave folder, noise source, and an external input, expanding its sound-shaping capabilities. Uwe demonstrated how the module can be used for lush soundscapes and dynamic modulation with its various features. SED CSM offers envelope generators with loopable modes and versatile LFOs and filter options.
We returned to the Analogue Solutions booth to chat again with Tom who showed us the second synth he’s released this year, Ample. Ample is a 3 VCO synth which combines some of the greatest bits of other Analogue Solutions synths, including a patch pin matrix similar to the Vostok, a sequencer taken from the generator, an interval generator similar to that on the Fusebox, and a 24dB filter akin to that of the Pro One. It even has the same delay circuit from the new Maximus.
There are 3 types of pin for the pin matrix with resistances of 0 ohms on the black pin 10k ohms on the red one and blue giving a value of 100k, which allows for more flexibility in attenuating the signals you patch. Tom told us that Ample is particularly suited to percussion, with its snappy filter, and various clock sources available, and though Ample is in a desktop format, Tom has given us plenty of space between the controls so no accidental knob bumping can occur.
Available October 23
Ample Price: around £2000 plus vat
4. Synthfest UK 23: Expert Sleepers - Analogue Modules
At Synthfest UK 2023, we had the chance to chat with Os from Expert Sleepers, known for their versatile digital modules. However, Os has been exploring the analog side of modular synthesis and has introduced a range of eight analog modules.
Among the analog modules, Os showcased a squelchy filter, oscillators with unconventional sine wave cores, and an intriguing octave fuzz effect. He emphasized that these analog modules offer a different approach to sound generation and signal processing compared to their digital counterparts. Os also pointed out that once an analog module is designed and built, it's a finished product, offering a sense of completeness that's distinct from the continuous updates often associated with digital modules.
Expert Sleepers Analogue modules Prices: from £159
5. Synthfest UK 23: Yamaha - DM3 - Super Compact Digital Mixer
At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with Chris from Yamaha to take a look at their latest offering, the DM3 digital mixer. This compact 16-input mixer packs some impressive features into a small footprint, making it suitable for a variety of applications. With a focus on pro audio and audio versatility, the DM3 boasts brand-new microphone preamps inspired by Yamaha's high-end CL and QL series, ensuring top-notch audio quality. Operating at 96 kHz, the DM3 offers pristine audio resolution.
We have to admit, we're all Gassing for this one...
The DM3 boasts a touchscreen interface, complemented by touch-and-turn knobs for tactile control. This innovative combination allows users to efficiently navigate and control the mixer's parameters. The DM3 can also serve as an audio interface, providing 18 in and 18 out over USB, making it an excellent choice for recording and streaming applications. With a compact and portable design, this mixer is versatile enough for live gigs, corporate events, podcasting, and studio work.
DM3 Standard Model Price: Around £1,500
DM3 Dante-Enabled Price: Around £2,000
6. Synthfest UK 23: Tone Science - Triple Cross - Chance Delay
At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with Ian Boddy from DIN Records, known for his prolific work in the electronic music scene. While DIN Records is celebrating its 25th anniversary next year, Ian has expanded his creative endeavors with the release of two modules under the sub-label Tone Science in collaboration with AJH Synth. The Triple Cross module offers versatile signal manipulation capabilities, enabling crossfading, morphing, panning, with non-synchronous LFOs and DC-coupled outputs. The Chance Delay module introduces a unique concept of probability-driven gate delay. Musicians can control the likelihood of triggers passing through, allowing for rhythmically intricate and ever-changing sequences. These modules are designed to enhance the performative aspect of modular synthesis, providing musicians with dynamic tools for evolving soundscapes and rhythmic complexity.
Triple Cross Price: £260
Chance Delay Price: £175
7. Synthfest UK 23: 1010 Music - Bluebox Eurorack Edition
At Synthfest UK 2023, we had the opportunity to chat with Steve from 1010 Music about their latest creation, the Bluebox Eurorack Edition. This module was born out of customer demand, as users of the original Blue Box desktop unit clamored for a Eurorack-compatible version. The Bluebox Eurorack Edition packs all the power and versatility of the desktop version but with a few key differences. It offers mono inputs and outputs that can be combined into stereo, six CV inputs for mapping to various parameters, and two dedicated USB-C ports—one for MIDI and the other for USB audio. This means you can connect your Blue Box to a Mac, PC, or iPad, send and receive audio tracks, and still record all 12 tracks, plus a master track and two effects sends, separately on a micro SD card. An upcoming firmware update will also bring stereo audio in both directions to the Blue Box Desktop Edition, offering even more flexibility in routing and recording. With its compact 30 HP size and thoughtful design, the Bluebox Eurorack Edition also offers a clock output bridging the gap between hardware and software seamlessly.
At Synthfest UK 2023, we had a conversation with Tim from Nonlinear Labs, the creators of the highly expressive C15 synthesizer. Tim shared some exciting updates that have recently been implemented with the inclusion of LFOs via looping envelopes providing musicians with more sonic versatility. The C15's unique concept, based on a two-operator FM synthesis engine, remains intact, but these new LFO capabilities expand its sonic palette. Tim also showcased the expanded key tracking options, which can stretch pitches to create unique tonal textures. Furthermore, he highlighted the new twin-engine feature, which allows for cascading delays and creating captivating stereo soundscapes. Tim also hinted at future developments that owners of this expressive synthesizer can look forward to.
C15 Black Price: 4,300 Euros (incl. VAT)
C15 Cherry Wood Price: 4,750 Euros (incl. VAT)
9. Synthfest UK 23: Kenton - LNDX Midi Line Driver
At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with John from Kenton Electronics to check out their latest offering, the LNDX Line Driver, a handy solution for extending MIDI signals over long distances. Designed to address the challenges of maintaining stable MIDI connections in large venues and studios, the Line Driver utilizes Cat5 cables to transmit MIDI signals up to an impressive 500 meters. It's an ideal tool for live gigs in massive stadiums or situations where the control center is far from the performance area. The Line Driver features LEDs to monitor both the incoming and outgoing MIDI signals, providing essential feedback for troubleshooting and ensuring signal integrity. This straightforward and robust solution adds reliability to any MIDI setup, whether it's in the music industry, broadcasting, or even unconventional applications like flight simulators. With its opto-isolation and straightforward connectivity, the Line Driver is set to become an essential tool for professionals seeking rock-solid MIDI signal transmission over long distances.
LNDR pair Price: £127.92
10. Synthfest UK 23: Sweet Discrete - Synth Panel Restoration
At Synthfest UK 2023, we had a chat with Craig from Sweet Discrete, a company specializing in unique synth restoration and custom creations. Craig showcased their latest endeavor, which goes beyond their well-known synth overlays. Sweet Discrete has taken on the ambitious task of restoring classic synths like the Jupiter 8 to their former glory. These aren't just simple restorations; they're meticulous, artisanal processes, involving lead loading to remove rust and imperfections, followed by precise silkscreening. What's more, Sweet Discrete manufactures exact replica shells for various synth models, offering three versions for the Jupiter 8 alone. They've even delved into MIDI mods for the Jupiter 8, bringing modern convenience to these vintage gems.
Beyond their cosmetic work, Sweet Discrete is exploring the possibility of delving into electronics and design for synthesizers. With a keen focus on quality and precision, they're making a name for themselves in the world of synth restoration and custom solutions. To learn more about their offerings and explore the range of products, visit their website
"Powering Korg Volcas noiselessly with myVolts CrazyChain, through an isolated pedal power supply
The Korg Volcas take 9V centre positive power, and a smaller barrel than standard.
myVolts CrazyChain VAR2 reverses the polarity from the 9V isolated pedal power supply output, and makes the barrel smaller too.
"We spoke to Caroline from MyVolts, a power solution company based in Dublin, at Superbooth 2023. They showcased their range of Power Solutions, audio cables, and sync cables. Caroline demonstrated the mobile power solutions, which included powering three volkas and a volka mix using MyVault 9 volt ripcord plugged into a USB power bank. The power cables were daisy-chained with candy cords and required only one USB port to run the entire setup for hours. They also launched a new product, The Mult, which is a port duplicator that shows the polarity of the signal with a bi-color LED. The Mult can be used for modular gates, clocks, triggers, and other signals.
MyVolts also displayed the ReVolt line of batteries, which run from Triple A's up to D cells, to extend the battery life of devices. They have made pocket operator cases, including the Re-Fault battery system, which has two dummy batteries and a power port. This system powers two pocket operators with only one USB port, effectively reducing battery waste. MyVolts also has a small mixer with noise filtering, perfect for desktop musicians. They test their products thoroughly to ensure noise is kept to a minimum, and they are attempting to solve the problems of musicians without sacrificing anything.
"Luke Brennan, MD at myVolts shows a few ways other than modular that light up patch cables can be used. Lots of CV examples. Elektron A4, Empress Zoia pedal, AC Noises Respira pedal, Arturia Keystep, Korg Volca Modular, Korg SQ1, CV Controlled tape player. LED Patch cables.
Featuring TAPs, Beatsplitter and Pots and Pans."
myVolts wrote in to let us know about their upcoming Candycord Halo Cables. The following is what they had to say about them:
"They're a range of coloured modular patch cables with discrete led lighting elements within their connectors, lighting up when Control Voltages (CV) passes through them. They work beautifully in modular, semi-modular and CV controller keyboard scenarios.
For the Halo range, we've partnered with a top musician and video producer. we'll be revealing who next week. He was deeply involved with the design process of these cables so we're confident they will satisfy the needs of even the most discerning modular / tabletop / desktop / electronic musicians.
We've a page people can sign up to get notified when the campaign goes live, and get a free gift: https://myvolts.com/halo"
Additional details:
"What is Candycord Halo? Last year we brought you Candycords, a beautifully designed, hard-wearing set of audio cables. This year, we are extending that to modular patch cables.
Why Halo?
We've decided to bring flashing lights to your beautiful music. Halo modular patch cables have discrete led lighting elements within their connectors, lighting up when Control Voltages passes through them.
Just one colour?
The cables will come in a range of colours and a range of lenghts. Their will have bi-colour LED pairs, so depending on polarity of voltage passing through them, they will change between LED colours, e.g. Blue to Red.
Will they be pretty?
They will be extremely pretty. But mostly useful, lighting the way for active ports, pulsing to the frequency of the CV signal, showing clearly patch pairs and paths on your system.
Is that all?
No. There will be lots, lots more. We've spent the last year working with a very special partner to ensure that we shake some trees in the modular world, solving some of the problems we see as getting in the way of your creative expression. We hope you'll join us on this journey, over the two weeks of the campaign, where we take things further, yielding new possible improvements as the campaign progresses. We need your support and feedback.
Are these cables just for modular?
Please no! We hope to show you that CV is everywhere in musical universe and demonstrate some useful and inventive ways to use it. If you can see it, it's a lot easier to make use of it!"
Use the controls in the player above to skip around (drop down top right; skip controls bottom left).
"Videos from the SynthFest UK show in Sheffield put on by Sound on Sound Magazine"
Update: Smart MIDI Patchbay, & Ivo Beatrix Lorelei Persephone added to the playlist.
Playlist:
Synthfest UK 22: AJH Synth Patch Break Down With Dreams Of Wires
Synthfest UK 22: Adroit Synthesis - Granular Synth for Voltage Modular
Synthfest UK 22: MIDIum - SmartMIDI Foot Controller
Synthfest UK 22: Yamaha MODX+ Demo From Dom
Synthfest UK 22: Korg Drumlogue 1st UK Sighting
Synthfest UK 22: Rhodes - MK-8
Synthfest UK 22: RYK Vector Wave FM Module
Synthfest UK 22: Knobula Compact Skiff Demo Riffs
Synthfest UK 22: Studiologic - Numa-X Piano GT
Synthfest UK 22: Decksaver - Protective Covers
Synthfest UK 22: 3 New iLoud Precision Monitors
Synthfest UK 22: Dreadbox - Erebus MK2 and Hades
Synthfest UK 22: The Godfather Will Own Your Eurorack Mix
Synthfest UK 22: Soundgas - Rare Suzuki Waraku Koto Synth
Synthfest UK 22: Wang Synth Control - Wangulator
Synthfest UK 22: Sweet Discrete Can Pimp Your Vinyl Panels
Synthfest UK 22: Starsky Carr Meets Gaz Williams
Synthfest UK 22: myVOLTS Power and Audio Fixers
Synthfest UK 22: Transistor Sound Labs Stepper Sequencers
Synthfest UK 22: Studio-Electronics - MIDImini and SE-3
Synthfest UK 22: Bjooks - Patch and Tweak and Inspire the Music
Synthfest UK 22: Tileyard North
Synthfest UK 22: Kenton - Smart MIDI Patchbay
Synthfest UK 22: Expert Sleepers - Ivo Beatrix Lorelei Persephone
Synthfest UK 22: Synth Cables of all kinds
Synthfest UK 22: Roland SP-404 MK2 With 2.0 OS
Synthfest UK 22: More On The Eventide Misha
"I've been training my own personal backing singers for the @teenageengineering Pocket Operator, the wonderful @iorama.studio #chantlings! 👍✨.So, the setup is... Audio is coming from my Pocket Operator, it is then inputted to the mic in on the iPad (chantlings is made for singing into, but with a simple channel splitter you can play anything into it). 😋✨.The output end of the iPad audio splitter is then sent to the little fender speaker on the desk. 🔊🔉✨.I even tried plugging a tula mic into the PO input, the audio came through nicely and the "chantlings" harmonized well with my attempts at singing. 😜👏✨.I initially tried chaining two POs and inputting them, but there seemed to be a good deal of signals, the chantlings did not respond all that well. I then plugged both POs into a mickxer and got a much better response..Note the whole setup was mobile powered with our ReVolt and Ripcord USB cables. 😁✨.Also our delicious Candycord audio cables are on show. 🍭💖😁✨ https://myvolts.com/candycords"
"Did Ripcord set you free this summer? 🤔⚡✨ . We had two intern sound engineers Sean and James from BCFE (Ballyfermot College of Further Education) visit our Porto development lab over the summer. ✨😎🎶✨ . They made this short video (including composing the song) to showcase Ripcord in action. 🎶😜✨ . We used it power korg volcas, (9V) a microfreak (12V) and a teenage engineering pocket operator (3V), all from USB. 👌✨ . The set up their gear in the studio of our very talented photographer Gil, who captured beautifully the clean colours of our candycords. 💗🍭 As everything was USB powered, we brought the setup for a stroll down along Porto's Douro River. 😍 As we say here at myVolts, play anywhere! ⚡️ . Our passive 5 to 1 mixer (mickxer) does a great job of pulling the sound in from all 5 sources together too! 🎶😉💯✨
"Luke from MyVolts introduced us to Beat Splitter, a useful little add-on to, for example, a Pocket Operator, which gives control over the left and right channels, managing audio and sync signals. Alongside Beat Splitter is the Slim Slider, a dual fader for control of two channels of audio.
Beat Splitter and Slim Slider are available now, and ship next week.
"Available here for only €9: https://tinyurl.com/MyVoltsTaps
You now have a way to control your minijack audio inputs and outputs! The Beatsplitter is a dual output, with switchable control, allowing you to output Stereo, Mono, of duplicate one side on both channels.
Pots and Pans will allow you to control volume on a channel, or, in pan mode, move the panoramic centre of the audio. It also allows you to mute that channel with a simple mute button.
Launched live on Kickstarter 15/4/22. Make audio mismatches a thing of the past, you now have all the control you need on your audio connector."
I Swear this Dawless Setup is Easier than it looks.. // MyVolts TAPS Pots and Pans usage
"Shout out to MyVolts for sending over the Revolt Power adapter for Pocket Operators! I never thought it would be possible to plug your Pocket Operator into a wall but now you can!
Find out more here - https://bit.ly/3vNJUfN
- And if you're interested in the 3D Printed Case, get the schematic here - https://bit.ly/3gYaNIE"
"In which I perform a little stress test on the new myvolts REVOLT USB-battery replacement system. Instead of trying to use it with Pocket Operators or other small devices, I see if it will power a vintage UHER Report 4000 Monitor reliably. The results surprised me.
Irish Company myVolts To Launch ReVolt: the Ultimate Battery Replacement System
Dublin, Ireland: myVolts Ltd. today announced the launch of a new product: ReVolt. Anything that is usually powered by batteries can now be powered by USB. Just swap out the device's batteries with the correct ReVolt adaptor and you're good to go. Deceptively easy to use - but much harder and many hours of R&D to get just right.
“Everyone - especially musicians - hates buying, using, and disposing of batteries.” says Luke Brennan, MD at myVolts
"Despite drives to recycle, 100,000,000 kilos of batteries end up in landfill each year in the EU alone. So we spent 2020 and 2021 developing ReVolt - the solution to this global problem. We think we’ve made something great, and we can’t wait to share it with the world.”
● Adaptable: Use in 1000s of devices: Pocket Operator, Korg Monotron, Game Boy, Sony Walkman, small synths, audio recording units - and thousands of other toys and gadgets.
● Flexible: Use with any USB port.
● Mobile: Power your device with a USB power bank for total power freedom.
● Global: ReVolt can be safely used anywhere in the world.
● Multi-use: Take it out of one device, use it in another.
● Non-destructive: Remove it and your device can take standard batteries again, any time.
● Economical: Buy once.
● Durable: Use 1000s of times.
● Environmentally friendly: No consumables to dispose of.
● Modular: Get add-ons from the system to power different devices.
● No cut-outs: Always know your device will have power.
● No leaks: Safely store devices with ReVolt installed.
ReVolt will go live on Kickstarter 27 May 2021, at 2pm GMT, price starting at 39.99 EUR. The first run of the product is already manufactured and ready to ship worldwide July 2021, so backers can buy with full confidence.
Kickstarter project is live for 30 days at https://bit.ly/3oPiODh (page is in preview mode prior to launch on 27th May, 2pm GMT). Hainbach has stress tested ReVolt, see YouTube video [above].
myVolts Ltd has been solving power and audio problems of musicians for well over a decade, has two previously successfully funded and shipped Kickstarter campaigns, and served tens of thousands of happy customers on Amazon, eBay and their own webshop.
"Using our ground-breaking Ripcord USB cables, we have extended the family of products to all battery powered devices. If you would like to know more, visit www.wehatebatteries.com/YT"
"V2 of the myVolts 5-way passive mixer mickXer‘s just dropped – It’s got improved volume output, bolder boosted bass, and it’s available in new Cool Grey colour. With 5 x 1/8″ (3.5mm) TRS stereo inputs and noise reduction, it’s a must for the discerning desktop musician. mickXer works great with any music gear: Korg Volcas, Roland Boutiques, Teenage Engineering Pocket Operators and thousands more.
Grab it and get 20% off your entire order with code MIX20, valid through to end of March 2021."
"USB powered pinball? Grinning face With a backing track? Smiling face with open mouth
We've used a single 9V USB Ripcord to power two Korg Volcas, a Digital delay pedal, and....a pinball machine. Zany face
Check out Crazy Chain, our modular power supply chain. #Pinball #synths #effectpedals #korgvolca #usbpower
Volca Modular and Volca beats used.
Channels mixed with myVolts mickxer.
All power and audio solutions available through www.myvolts.com"
"At myVolts, we're always trying to make life simpler. Have you ever wanted to carry less power supplies around? Do you rather not have "spare ends" from your daisy chain cable? Does it not have the correct tip for your synthesizer?
We hope to solve those problems, with our stylish DC power cable solution.
You can select the Tip size, polarity or chain link length to allow the right set up for your pedalboard, your synth stand, or where ever you'd like your life to be a little less complicated.
In this video, Luke Brennan, MD at myVolts explains how to power 3 synths and an effects pedal from one USB port. This is achieved with a USB powerbank, one 9V+ Ripcord USB Cable and a Crazy Chain, available from our online store:
https://www.myvolts.com/crazychain
This mobile USB powered synthesizers setup features a Korg Volca Modular, a Korg Volca Bass, a Sismo Samba (two outputs, one passed through a Zoom MSC70 Effects Pedal)."
