MATRIXSYNTH: Search results for Chris Huggett


Showing posts sorted by relevance for query Chris Huggett. Sort by date Show all posts
Showing posts sorted by relevance for query Chris Huggett. Sort by date Show all posts

Thursday, May 11, 2023

Superbooth 2023: PWM - Mantis


video upload by sonicstate

"Paul from PWM gave a us preview of Mantis, which is the last synth designed by Chris Huggett [EDP Wasp creator] before he passed away. The Mantis is described as a Wasp Mark II with an Oscar- inspired dual filter, and two analog signal paths that make it duophonic. The oscillators are numerically calculated on power-up using then move into the analog domain, where everything is digitally controlled.

The Mantis mixer allows users to balance between oscillator one and two, add noise, and ring mod. It has a deep, but simple to use modulation section, two envelopes with a unique sustain fall feature and 100 factory patches and 100 user patches. The instrument also includes a few digital effects at the end of the signal path that help sweeten the sounds and make it more of an all-around performance instrument.

While the instrument is still in development, PWM showcased the circuit boards that are provide a preview of the final sound of the Mantis.

PWM Mantis Available: Late Summer 2023

Price 1,599 Euro. 1,349 GBP"

PWM Mantis // released today

video upload by Starsky Carr

"A brand new synth from PWM - a new company with lots of history. Paul has worked extensively in the industry. Most interesting here are his connections from his time at Novation as the BassStaion 2 product lead. You may know that the inventor of the classic WASP and OSCAR, Chris Huggett, was involved there, and before his unfortunately untimely death he was working with Paul on this new synth. Paul has brought it to life with his families blessing.

A great story, and a great little synth. Still has a couple of pre production hoops to jump through but will be available soon."

Duophonic Hybrid-Analogue Synthesiser

• 200 Patches
* All patches in RAM so can be overwritten
* Bank A: 100 Factory presets
* Bank B: 100 User presets (all set to initial patch)
* Compare function
* Initialise patch function

Wednesday, February 26, 2025

PWM Mantis Hybrid-Analog Duophonic Synthesizer

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


via this listing

"Born out of collaboration between PWM and the late Chris Huggett, Mantis draws from the legacy of synthesizers like the Wasp and OSCar, but with modern refinements and performance. Blending sounds and techniques built over the years designing instruments for the likes of EDP and Novation, Huggett's final designs went into Mantis, and through some touch-up work and adding powerful MIDI capabilities, PWM brought Mantis to market to honor Huggett's legacy.

As a duophonic instrument, Mantis contains two independent voices—beginning with digital oscillators that are then processed through an entirely analog signal path, alongside a digital effects section. Mantis features mathematically-generated oscillators, running on their own DSP chip for maximum performance and quality. There are two oscillators per voice, plus a sub-oscillator, meaning that you can dial in a blended variety of tones as you see fit.

Possibly the star of the show on Mantis is the unique VCF design, utilizing a unique configuration devised by Huggett. Based on SSI2164 VCA chips, the multi-mode filters in each voice may be controlled simultaneously in series or parallel configurations, with a width control similar to what was found on the OSCar. This leads to a distinctive array of sonic potential, helping Mantis stand out from the pack.

Like other PWM synthesizers, Mantis features incredible digital control capabilities, including MIDI CC control over all parameters. Mantis is a modern synthesizer for the modern day, and a fitting tribute to the legacy of Chris Huggett's work."

Sunday, October 25, 2020

Legendary Synth Designer Chris Hugget of EDP, OSC, and Novation has Passed Away



I'm hearing news that Novation's Chris Hugget passed away on Friday. Anyone coming to this site, likely knows he designed the original EDP WASP series of synths, the Oxford Synthesizer Company's OSCar, and more recently, various synths for Novation. Novation has a timeline of his creations here.

"Most people know him as the genius behind Wasp and OSCar, the legendary monosynth from Ultravox's Love's Great Adventure, Stevie Wonder's Skeletons, and Jean-Michel Jarre's Revolutions Overture.

Chris' synths have been used by everybody: Orbital, Ultravox, Tom Yorke, Trent Reznor, Dire Straits, Pink Floyd, Genesis, Stevie Wonder, Jean Michel Jarre, Keith Emerson- the list is endless. His heritage synths are sought across the world, and sell for upwards of £5000.

He is a true synth legend. He is also our synth designer. Every Novation synth has been conceived, shaped and refined by his passion and expertise, which spans five decades."

Below are a few videos that pay tribute to his work. You can find additional posts mentioning Chris Hugget here.




Novation // Innovation Since 1992

Inside: Novation's Innovative Instrument Laboratory (Electronic Beats TV)




The WASP - A Very British Synthesizer


Alex Ball

"The WASP is an iconic British synthesizer designed by Electronic Dream Plant in 1978.

EDP were Adrian Wagner (yes he was a relation), Chris Huggett and Steven Evans. They only traded until around 1982, but that wasn't the end of their synth story. Chris Huggett in particular has had a prolific career in the industry, founding the Oxford Synthesizer Company in 1983 and releasing the (also iconic) OSCar and subsequently (after work with Akai), he joined Novation, who are still trading to this very day.

Back to 1978, the concept of the WASP was to build a powerful, low cost synthesizer. That seemed to have worked as one of the original reviews I found uses the headline "The Synth we can all afford" but still dubs it a professional instrument.

I also found a Moog price list dated June 15th 1978 and it lists the Minimoog as $1,995, the Multimoog as $1,495 and the Micromoog as $895. Assuming they sold for about the same in the UK, the equivalent prices would be approximately £1,090, £820 and £490 respectively. The aforementioned WASP review also states that an Odyssey is still over £1,000 in 1978, so with the WASP priced at £199 this demonstrates what a bargain it was at the time.

In fact, I had a brief conversation with a friend who remembers running out to buy it the moment he heard about it in 1978 and he still has his. It was also the first synth of Dave Stewart and Nick Rhodes among others."

Thursday, February 02, 2023

Novation - 30th Anniversary | Podcast


video upload by Sound On Sound magazine

"An Illustrated Podcast
Novation - 30th Anniversary: Grooveboxes, Controllers and Synths

2022 marked the 30th birthday of one of the world’s leading manufacturers of synths, samplers and hardware controllers. In this podcast, Novation Product Specialist Chris Calcutt looks back over three decades of innovation and explores the key products, technologies and partnerships behind a British music technology success story.

SHOW NOTES
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
00:26 - 30th Anniversary
01:02 - The First Product
03:24 - The Launchpad
06:58 - Automap
09:25 - Friendly Relations
13:08 - The BassStation
17:50 - Hands-On Control
19:07 - Analogue Sound Modelling
21:41 - The Resurgence Of Analogue
30:43 - From The Rack To The Desktop
34:33 - Moving Away From Computers
38:02 - The Focusrite Group
45:25 - 40 Years of MIDI

Novation - Biog
In 1992, Ian Jannaway and Mark Thompson founded Novation Electronic Music Systems and created the MM10, a keyboard controller designed to be used with the Yamaha QY10 music workstation. The BassStation was launched in 1993 and was used by many top artists of the day. ASM (Analogue Sound Modelling) technology was introduced in 1995 and designer Chris Huggett joined the team full-time in 1998, with the popular Supernova synth being released that year.

30 years later, while still creating grooveboxes, controllers and synths, Novation is now part of The Focusrite Group, along with ADAM Audio, Focusrite and Sequential.

https://novationmusic.com/en/30-years...

Novation - Chris Calcutt
Chris Calcutt has been the Product Specialist at Novation for over a decade. Despite coming from a more traditional background of classical music composition and playing the trombone, Chris has always been heavily involved and passionate about music tech.

As a kid, Chris would play with synthesizers and a four-track recorder on the living room floor and has since gone on to work with Novation, collaborating closely with the product developers, designing and building new and innovative electronic instruments.

Chris is responsible for representing multiple brands under Novation's parent company, The Focusrite Group, working with their European distribution partners to deliver training, product presentations, and live performances both online and at in-store events.

Chris also produces and performs live as CALC and is an active member of the experimental electronic music scene in Brighton, UK.
About The People & Music Industry Podcast Channel
Listen to experts in the field, company founders, equipment designers, engineers, producers and educators.

Available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon or wherever you get your podcasts."

Thursday, September 01, 2005

Moog OSCar


I remember seeing this a few years ago on the 'bay. The claim was that it was the prototype of the Oxford Synthesizer Company's OSCar in the case of a Moog Source.

Via the AH archives:

"it was confirmed in SOS. There's an article on it. you can even see it in
the auction.

I don't think that many peopel want it because it's not working properly.
It's collectible, but that's all, not so overly usable..."

"I also think that this is the one described in a issue of Future Music
some years ago when they did a interview with Lionrock. I don't
remember the issue, though I know that I still have it. Apparently, it
was stolen shortly after the interview was completed. I saw the SOS
article too and, since the owner of the piece at that time had worked
with Lionrock, I assumed that the synth was returned."

I found this article on Sound on Sound, but no mention of the word prototype or moog (I need to read the whole thing). But I did find this information that I've also forgotten over the years. Chris Huggett, was the man behind the EDP Wasp, Oxford Oscar, Akai S1000, and finally the Novation Supernova. Pretty impressive.

From Sound on Sound:

"Chris Huggett? In the same way that I had to go and get a proper job with E&MM and then Sequential to make a living, Chris eventually had to get a more reliable source of income. I put him in touch with Akai, for whom I was doing S900 sound development, and the next thing I knew he was writing the operating system for the new S1000. Chris worked for Akai behind the scenes on most of the sampler operating systems for more than 10 years until he grew frustrated with their refusal to let him work on the hardware design as well (with the Wasp and OSCar, he had of course done both). Having fostered Novation in its early days with help and advice, he eventually joined them full-time a couple of years back and is the guiding light behind the virtual technology of the Supernova. So a very British designer is once more working on a very British synth for a very British company."

Update via Turboskin in the comments: "Found the restoration of this exact Moog OSCar: stereoping.com/"

Update 3/8/12: Bigger pics here: Legendary Moog OSCar Up for Auction

Friday, October 30, 2020

Electronic Dream Plant WASP synth, Kim Wilde, Nick Rhodes... in memory of Chris Huggett,


Electric Cafe

"This video demonstrates the sound of the Electronic Dream Plant WASP synthesizer, Kim Wilde used it for her hit single Kids In America, and Duran Duran keyboard player Nick Rhodes used it early in with the band.

Sadly Chris Huggett passed away on October 22nd 2020 but leaves behind a legacy of synth production that in a British way rivals that of Moog, Oberheim, ARP, and other synthesizer manufacturers. Today there are companies who recognise the popularity of the EDP WASP and have cloned them, Behringer and the Jasper are just two who have released their version of this classic vintage sounding synthesizer which rivals some Moog, Oberheim, ARP, Yamaha, and other famous synthesizer company products since the late 1970's.

This video contains images that do not belong to the uploader of Electric Cafe but are being used for education purposes. The music created is all original apart from Kim Wilde Kids In America:
Artist
Kim Wilde
Album
Kim Wilde
Licensed to YouTube by
[Merlin] Absolute Label Services; ASCAP, EMI Music Publishing, UNIAO BRASILEIRA DE EDITORAS DE MUSICA - UBEM, PEDL, SOLAR Music Rights Management, LatinAutorPerf, Kobalt Music Publishing, and 16 Music Rights Societies
All synths programmed were: Electronic Dream Plant WASP, and that's all!

Copyright Disclaimer under Section 107 of the copyright act 1976, allowance is made for fair use for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favour of fair use."

Also see: Legendary Synth Designer Chris Hugget of EDP, OSC, and Novation has Passed Away

Thursday, June 04, 2015

Win a Vintage Restored OSCar From Novation! - Timeline of Synths by Designer Chris Huggett


Novation has created a fantastic timeline of synths that were designed by and with Chris Huggett. Not only was he the mastermind behind Novation's line of synths, but also EDP (Electronic Dream Plant) and the Oxford Synthesizer Company OSCar.

"Most people know him as the genius behind Wasp and OSCar, the legendary monosynth from Ultravox's Love's Great Adventure, Stevie Wonder's Skeletons, and Jean-Michel Jarre's Revolutions Overture.

Chris' synths have been used by everybody: Orbital, Ultravox, Tom Yorke, Trent Reznor, Dire Straits, Pink Floyd, Genesis, Stevie Wonder, Jean Michel Jarre, Keith Emerson- the list is endless. His heritage synths are sought across the world, and sell for upwards of £5000.

He is a true synth legend. He is also our synth designer. Every Novation synth has been conceived, shaped and refined by his passion and expertise, which spans five decades. To celebrate that, we're giving away an OSCar!"

Click here for the timeline and how to enter. I captured the timeline of synths below for the MATRIXSYNTH archives. It's not as nice as Novation's timeline so be sure to see it there while it's up!

Sunday, December 20, 2020

Oxford Synthesizer Company OSCar

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


via this auction

"Oxford Synthesizer Company OSCar 37-Key Analog Monophonic Programmable Synthesiz. Condition is "Seller refurbished".

The OSAar was a synthesizer manufactured by the Oxford Synthesizer Company from 1983 to 1985. It was ahead of its time in several ways and its later versions were among the few mono-synths of its time to have MIDI. Around 2000 were made.

When synthesizer manufacturer Electronic Dream Plant folded in 1982, Chris Huggett went on to form the Oxford Synthesizer Company. The OSCar synthesizer was launched in 1983. Chris Huggett designed the electronics while independent product designer Anthony Harrison-Griffin was responsible for the unique look and build of the OSCar.

1985 VERSION M2 (MIDI) MIDI note receive response much faster than version M1.

Timing clock receive implemented.

Original UK model run on 230 v 50 Hz. Need an AC converter to be used in the USA

Perfect working conditions

Misses 2 top caps wheels knobs controller , 1 store recall push button and 1 sequencer insert button [shown in pictures] but they all work perfectly fine

Perfect esthetic conditions no scratches

Original Manual

Offers below $5,999.00 not accepted"

Sunday, July 19, 2020

The WASP - A Very British Synthesizer


Alex Ball

"The WASP is an iconic British synthesizer designed by Electronic Dream Plant in 1978.

EDP were Adrian Wagner (yes he was a relation), Chris Huggett and Steven Evans. They only traded until around 1982, but that wasn't the end of their synth story. Chris Huggett in particular has had a prolific career in the industry, founding the Oxford Synthesizer Company in 1983 and releasing the (also iconic) OSCar and subsequently (after work with Akai), he joined Novation, who are still trading to this very day.

Back to 1978, the concept of the WASP was to build a powerful, low cost synthesizer. That seemed to have worked as one of the original reviews I found uses the headline "The Synth we can all afford" but still dubs it a professional instrument.

I also found a Moog price list dated June 15th 1978 and it lists the Minimoog as $1,995, the Multimoog as $1,495 and the Micromoog as $895. Assuming they sold for about the same in the UK, the equivalent prices would be approximately £1,090, £820 and £490 respectively. The aforementioned WASP review also states that an Odyssey is still over £1,000 in 1978, so with the WASP priced at £199 this demonstrates what a bargain it was at the time.

In fact, I had a brief conversation with a friend who remembers running out to buy it the moment he heard about it in 1978 and he still has his. It was also the first synth of Dave Stewart and Nick Rhodes among others.

In this video I breakdown its features and use it to make a short track.

0:00 - Intro
0:42 - The WASP
2:07 - The Keyboard
2:59 - The Oscillators
3:40 - Noise
4:03 - The Controller Oscillator
5:06 - The Filter
6:08 - The Envelopes
6:30 - LINK
7:11 - Internal Speaker
7:32 - Demo Track
9:21 - Outro

Gear used:
EDP WASP (1978)
Simmons SDS-3 (1978)
AMS DMX 15~80S (1978)
Roland CR-78 (1978) samples

Some original brochure scans stolen from the wonderful Retro Synth Ads blog:
http://retrosynthads.blogspot.com"

Alex Ball synth vids

Thursday, January 25, 2024

NAMM 2024 PWM Mantis Synthesizer


video upload by Shazamm

"The PWM Mantis is priced at $1,499 USD, with a street price around $1,349. See the PWM site for more information."

Specs

Tuesday, April 22, 2025

Cherry Audio Introduces Yellowjacket EDP WASP Inspired Synthesizer


video upload by Cherry Audio

"Cherry Audio is proud to introduce Yellowjacket, an innovative virtual synthesizer that pays tribute to the legendary 1978 EDP Wasp synthesizer. Yellowjacket perfectly replicates the Wasp's distinct buzzy tone and its hybrid analog/digital design, while incorporating modern features that enhance its creative possibilities. The outcome is an affordable synthesizer plugin that combines a rich historical legacy with cutting-edge functionality for today's musicians and producers. "

Cherry Audio | Hive Mind for Yellowjacket Preset Pack

video upload by Cherry Audio

"Additional extraordinary sounds for Yellowjacket synthesizer plugin are available exclusively from Cherry Audio! The Hive Mind for Yellowjacket Preset Pack features 100 more presets by sound design wizard James Dyson, designed to further showcase Yellowjacket's arpeggios, effects, modulation, extended multi voice modes, and aftertouch.

Get the Hive Mind for Yellowjacket Preset Pack and check out more audio demos at: https://store.cherryaudio.com/presets..."

Cherry Audio | Introducing Yellowjacket with Tim Shoebridge

video upload by Cherry Audio

Introduction to Yellowjacket with Tim Shoebridge:

00:00 - Opening
00:45 - Introduction
01:48 - History: EDP and The Wasp
03:24 - Yellowjacket - Keyboard Controls
04:50 - Oscillators and Mixer
05:33 - Control Osc (LFO)
11:28 - Filter
16:54 - Envelope Generators
19:57 - Effects
23:30 - The Speaker Effect
26:30 - Arpeggiator
30:33 - FX Output Controls
33:00 - Keyboard Pressure Panel (Aftertouch)
35:08 - Root/Diatonic Scales
35:37 - More on Keyboard Modes
37:35 - Background: EDP and LINK
40:08 - Multi Voice, Cycle, and "Mini Synths"
45:21 - Conclusion: "Tick Tock"

BUZZ! Cherry Audio Yellowjacket recreates the infamous Wasp synth

video upload by CatSynth TV

"We buzz around in Cherry Audio's new Yellowjacket, a recreation of the infamous Wasp synthesizer from Electronic Data Plant. We examine all of its features in detail, and explore a few of the presets from both the Factory bank and the Hive Mind expansion bank.

To find out more, please visit https://cherryaudio.com

00:00 Introduction
00:24 History
01:12 Overview
01:42 Oscillators
05:42 Filter
10:08 VCA Envelope
11:27 LFO (Control Oscillator)
14:29 Keyboard & Voice modes
18:42 Keyboard pressure
21:41 Wasp speaker emulation
23:04 Octafuzz
25:18 Other effects
32:45 Arpeggiator
37:11 Factory presets
40:40 Hive Mind presets
43:51 Conclusion"

Press release follows:



PRESS RELEASE -- April 22, 2025 --

Cherry Audio is proud to introduce Yellowjacket, an innovative virtual synthesizer that pays tribute to the legendary 1978 EDP Wasp synthesizer. Yellowjacket perfectly replicates the Wasp's distinct buzzy tone and its hybrid analog/digital design, while incorporating modern features that enhance its creative possibilities. The outcome is an affordable synthesizer plugin that combines a rich historical legacy with cutting-edge functionality for today's musicians and producers. Yellowjacket synthesizer is available immediately for only $49. Additionally, Yellowjacket can be purchased as part of Cherry Audio's "Build Your Own Bundle" value options, Pick 3 (on sale for $99) and Pick 6 (on sale for $149), for a limited time.

Yellowjacket perfectly embodies the appearance and charm of the original Wasp, as well as the distinctive sound of its unique oscillators and signature state-variable filter. At the same time, it pushes the limits with Cherry Audio's characteristic innovations to bring this cherished classic into the 21st century. Highlights include:
16-voice polyphony alongside monophonic, unison, and cycle modes
Two oscillators with options for sawtooth, pulse, or square waveforms, as well as the enhanced modulated pulse-wave based on EDP's Gnat synthesizer
Innovative multi-voice modes that provide per-note variation with "chained" mini-synth panels, each featuring its own settings for dynamic tonal options that can create subtle or extreme timbres, single-finger chords and arpeggiated patterns, and more
A new advanced arpeggiator featuring probability and humanize controls adds randomness to patterns. When combined with cycle modes it can create transposable and even unpredictable four-note step sequences with the touch of a single key
Enhanced performance features, including support for polyphonic aftertouch, diatonic scales, transpose functions, and more
Studio-quality integrated effects, including reverb, delay, phaser, chorus, and a new Octafuzz distortion
A vintage-style onboard speaker emulation with adjustable hiss and hum for nostalgic, lo-fi tones
The original Wasp, developed by the late Chris Huggett and Adrian Wagner for Electronic Dream Plant (EDP), was a groundbreaking instrument that combined affordability with innovative design. Introduced in 1978 for just £200, it made electronic music creation accessible to a whole new audience and influenced the sound of artists such as Nick Rhodes (Duran Duran), Dave Greenfield (The Stranglers), Dave Stewart (Eurythmics), and Thomas Dolby.

Considered Britain's foremost synthesizer designer, Yellowjacket is a celebration of Chris Huggett's pioneering spirit. Cherry Audio has incorporated its latest features into Yellowjacket inspired by his innovations, ensuring his legacy resonates with new generations of musicians.

Yellowjacket features more than 270 professionally designed presets across a dozen categories, providing limitless creative possibilities right from the start. Yellowjacket also supports velocity, channel and polyphonic aftertouch with compatible USB/MIDI controllers, and seamless DAW integration for any studio environment.

Alongside the launch of Yellowjacket, Cherry Audio is introducing the Hive Mind Preset Pack for just $9.99. This pack features an additional 100 presets designed to further showcase Yellowjacket's advanced capabilities, with a deeper dive into arpeggios, effects, modulation, and aftertouch.

Yellowjacket exemplifies Cherry Audio's commitment to providing high-quality sound at an unbeatable price. At just $49, Yellowjacket is an excellent choice for synth enthusiasts who appreciate both exceptional tone and affordability. Additionally, until May 5th, Yellowjacket can be purchased as part of Cherry Audio's "Build Your Own Bundle" options. Customers can choose the Pick 3 bundle for $99 (regularly $129) or the Pick 6 bundle for $149 (regularly $169), allowing them to mix and match any of Cherry Audio's award-winning instruments for as low as $25 per plugin.

Cherry Audio’s Yellowjacket synthesizer is available for macOS (10.13 and above) and Windows (7 or above) in AU, VST, VST3, AAX, and standalone formats. A free 30-day demo is available. Visit cherryaudio.com for additional product details, a deep-dive introductory video, system requirements, and an extensive collection of awe-inspiring sound demos.

Sunday, July 16, 2023

Gearfest UK 2023: PWM Mantis Synth Is Coming Along


video upload by sonicstate

"We spoke to Paul and Ben from PWM at Gear Fest 2023, where they provided an update on their Mantis synthesizer. The Mantis project was initially started by Chris Huggett, and Ben has taken over the firmware development since Chris's passing. The Mantis is now in a working state and producing impressive sounds. Ben discussed the challenges of refining the code and turning the proof of concept into a fully functional product, addressing features like the multi-mode filter and ensuring compatibility for production. Paul mentioned that the firmware and sound patching would require a few more months of development before moving into mass production. The Mantis is expected to be available for purchase in October, just in time for the pre-Christmas rush."

Tuesday, February 04, 2014

Novation Celebrates Its History with Free 800MB Sample Pack & Synth Contest


Novation // Innovation Since 1992 Uploaded on Jan 30, 2014 NovationTV·181 videos

Interesting insight with EDP Wasp creator Chris Huggertt. At 2:25 he states the original BassStation used the VCA & filter of the Wasp, "the analog synth part of the Wasp."

Details on the Contest and Sample Pack (Press Release):

"Novation Releases a Heritage Celebration Short Film, FREE 800MB Sample Pack, and All-Star Judged Competition to WIN its Powerful Synth Line

Novation is celebrating its heritage with a short film that explores Novation past, present, and future, along with a completely free sample pack comprising over 800MB of loops, single hits, multi sampled patches, and drum kits from its unforgettable and modern classic synths.

In addition, Novation are offering three people the chance to win their choice of Bass Station II, UltraNova, or MiniNova - their award winning current lineup of synthesisers - in a make-a-track competition with an all-star judging panel including Paul Hartnoll (Orbital), Liam Howe (Lana Del Rey, Sneaker Pimps), Eats Everything, and Timo Maas in a competition running from the 4th of February to the 4th of March 2014.

Novation co-founder Ian Jannoway, legendary synth designer Chris Huggett, Gus Unger-Hamilton of Alt-J, Sneaker Pimps and Lana Del Ray producer Liam Howe, and product manager Matt Derbyshire all feature in a very special short film that charts the rise of Novation from humble beginnings to a company whose musical innovations support a user base that includes - amongst many others - Orbital, M4SONIC, Rudimental, T.E.E.D, Lunice, Alt-J, Teddy Riley, and Jimmy Mac - keyboardist for international sensation Lorde.

Supernova II, K Station, Bass Station, Drum Station, Bass Station II and Ultranova are all represented in the heritage sample pack, and Novation are launching a month long competition with an all-star judging panel including Paul Hartnoll (Orbital), Liam Howe (Lana Del Ray, Sneaker Pimps), Eats Everything, and Timo Maas to create a track using the pack - with three winners each winning their choice of either Ultranova, Mininova, or Bass Station II. The competition runs from 4th of February 2014 to 4th of March 2014.

To watch the short film, download the heritage sample pack, and enter the competition, go to www.novationmusic.com/heritage.

Good luck!"

Thursday, May 30, 2019

"Better Than The Best Of Both Worlds" Hybrid Polysynth 'Summit' from Novation // Superbooth 2019


Published on May 30, 2019 DivKidVideo

"**PLEASE NOTE** Text used on screen in the video is from the Novation Peak page (link below). But as the products share the technology you can apply those things to the features and design of Summit. https://novationmusic.com/peak-explained

Summit is more than two Peaks thrown together. We can think of the Summit as two Peaks in that it's 16 voices (rather than 8) and it can also be split/layered and multi timbral which opens a huge range of power for sound design and performance. Summit (with more real estate thanks to the 61 note keyboard) breaks out more controls such as FM for the oscillators, loop switching for the envelopes and more. I was impressed with Peak and I'm impressed with Summit too.

In the video I chat briefly to Danny who designed the Summit, Nick about the engineering and working with Chris Huggett (designer of the OSCar and Wasp synths) and Chris Calc runs us through the synth. I also have patches from the launch day event cut into the video. So you'll get some background, a product overview and plenty of sounds too.

https://novationmusic.com/synths/summit"

Sunday, June 06, 2021

Tribute to Chris Huggett - Laurent Pelletier / Chris Calcutt / Paul Wiffen | SynthFest 2021


video by SynthFest France

Thursday, February 18, 2021

Bright Sparks Documentary - B Side


video by GForce Software

"The B Side of the critically acclaimed Bright Sparks Documentary focuses on the British electronic music pioneers, including the original Mellotron makers, Les, Norman and Frank Bradley, EMS's Peter Zinovieff, Electronic Dream Plant's Adrian Wagner & Chris Huggett, and String Ensemble inventor, Ken Freeman.

Includes contributions from I Monster's Dean Honer & Jarrod Gosling, Peter Zinovieff, Chris Cross, Daniel Miller, John Bradley, Karl Hyde, Ken Freeman, Fred Gardner, Will Gregory, Dean Honer & Jarrod Gosling"

You can find additional GForce Bright Sparks posts here.

Thursday, March 31, 2022

Novation Releases Peak & Summit 2.0 Firmware Update


video upload by NovationTV

"In this edition of Novation Live, Enrique introduces the new firmware update that's available for our polysynth duo - Summit and Peak. Focusing on Peak, Enrique will be showcasing some of the powerful new tools firmware v2.0 brings.

In the biggest update yet for Summit and Peak, Firmware v2.0 brings in essential improvements and a multitude of features across stereo controls, modulation, unpredictability, and effects, that give you powerful tools to shape your sound.

You will now be able to create bigger, wider, and more intricately textured soundscapes with updated stereo controls. Experiment with expansive sound design with modulation and unpredictability. A range of effects improvements brings new tonalities with the addition of Chorus Modes, Flanger, Phlanger, new effects modulation destinations and Lo-Fi delay

--- Learn more about the Summit and Peak Firmware Update v2.0:
https://bit.ly/SummitPeakFirmwareUpdate

--- Discover Summit:
https://novationmusic.com/en/synths/s...

--- Discover Peak:
https://novationmusic.com/en/synths/peak"

The press release:


""Powerful new tools to shape your sound.

Novation has just launched its biggest update yet for Summit and Peak. Firmware v2.0 brings in essential improvements and a multitude of features across stereo controls, modulation, unpredictability, and effects, that give you powerful tools to shape your sound.

Summit and Peak owners will now be able to create bigger, wider, and more intricately textured soundscapes with updated stereo controls. Experiment with expansive sound design with modulation and unpredictability. A range of effects improvements brings new tonalities with the addition of Chorus Modes, Flanger, Phlanger, new effects modulation destinations and Lo-Fi delay.

Firmware v2.0 Features

Stereo
New spread modes, panning per voice, and panning in the mod matrix give additional control and allows for sound design in the stereo field. Now you can create bigger, wider, and more intricately textured soundscapes.
Modulation and unpredictability
Create deeper and more experimental sounds with new mod destinations, noise as a mod source, and additional LFO 3 and 4 parameters. Animate Envelopes and Arpeggiator Chance open more creative performance possibilities.

Effects
New effects, including Chorus Modes, Flanger, and Phlanger add new tonalities. Additional effects modulation destinations open up more experimental sound design. A new Lo-Fi delay mode enables a more vintage style sound.

Bug Fixes
The firmware update v2.0 includes a number of bug fixes. The full details can be found in the release notes.

You can read about the full details of firmware v2.0 by visiting the Components update page for Summit and Peak.

Summit and Peak firmware v2.0 is the last addition to the legacy of Chris Huggett’s innovative synth design work with Novation. Having shaped the sound of Novation’s iconic synths – including Bass Station, Supernova, Bass Station II, Peak and Summit, Chris has left an indelible imprint on our heritage, and we will always be grateful for his influence and inspiration.

Novation will also be hosting a live stream today (Thursday March 31st, 2022, 9pm UK time), with product specialist Enrique, taking place on our YouTube channel, where the new v2.0 update features will be demonstrated live.

For those unfamiliar with Peak and Summit, Peak is an eight-voice polyphonic synthesiser that boasts rich and warm sounds, while Summit is a two-part, 16-voice, 61-key synthesiser with great harmonic depth – both now with enhanced capabilities thanks to firmware update v2.0.

Summit & Peak owners are now able to download the v2.0 update from Novation Components."

And a video by GEOSynths:

Novation Summit 2.0 Firmware Test

video upload by GEOSynths

Monday, August 03, 2015

Novation // OSCar Giveaway


Published on Aug 3, 2015 NovationTV

New video for the Novation OSCar giveaway contest first posted here.

"We are getting very close to giving away this legendary OSCar created by our synth designer Chris Huggett in 1983 - one of the most advanced programmable monosynths of its time and one of only 2000 ever made!

Before we could let it go we sat down with CALC in his studio to say our goodbyes and have one last jam.

To enter the competition please visit: http://www.novationmusic.com/novation..."

Sunday, April 15, 2018

✯RARE✯ EDP Caterpillar for EDP Wasp Gnat Synth

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

via this auction

"An extremely rare 'Caterpillar' controller designed by Chris Huggett. The caterpillar has four ports on the back for controlling up to four EDP synthesizers via 7 pin DIN sockets. One link cable is also included (not pictured in this sale).

As you can see this has aged really well, and has been recently serviced by SRS prior to sale.

The two controls on the front panel are for:

1. selecting how many devices you want to control (1-4 or Voice setting).

2. Selecting Unison, Poly or Cycle, there is also a separate Hold setting that gives you the option of also selecting Unison, Poly or Cycle.
The unit powers off of a single 9V battery.

Note: There is a design flaw with the Wasp circuitry that does not allow the lowest C note (first key from the left) to trigger the Wasp. However by the time EDP designed the Gnat they fixed this problem and the lowest C note will trigger a Gnat, this has been tested as I also own a Gnat and Gnat Special. The unit has been tested working fully prior to listing."

Wednesday, April 19, 2017

Novation Announces New Peak Polyphonic Synthesiser


Published on Apr 19, 2017 NovationTV

Click here for all posts featuring Novation's new Peak Polyphonic Synthesizer.

Playlist:
1. Novation // Peak with Hauschka
2. Novation // Peak - A Technical Overview
3. Novation // Peak - Patch Browse


via Novation

"Novation has chosen the Superbooth exhibition as the best place to launch Peak, a polyphonic synthesiser that is destined to be the brand's leading synth. Peak’s design consultant was Chris Huggett, the man behind Bass Station, Supernova, OSCar and many more synths, and Peak has its origin in the Bass Station II analogue monosynth.

Peak is an eight-voice desktop polyphonic synthesiser with three New Oxford Oscillators for each voice. The oscillators sound completely analogue by being high-quality NCOs (Numerically-Controlled Oscillators), but gain the flexibility of the digital domain with 17 digital wavetables. They can also become a linear FM source using either the analogue-sounding NCOs or digital wavetables – so are able to cross-modulate in a recursive loop.

The synth has a resonant multi-mode analogue filter for each voice, and three distortion points for each voice – pre-filter, post-filter and global – in an analogue signal chain. Peak is capable of receiving polyphonic aftertouch, which puts expression right at one's fingertips. There is also reverb, delay and chorus effects, and an on-board arpeggiator.

The modulation system puts a 16-slot modulation matrix and 16 direct assignments in the main controls, cleverly arranged for intuitive patch design and sound editing. There are three ADSR envelopes and two LFOs for each voice, and more elaborate movements and secondary ‘via’ assignments are made just a few menu button presses away. In addition, two animate buttons give live performers instant one-touch transformation of patches.

Peak connects to modular systems via a CV modulation input, and has MIDI I/O on five-pin DIN ports, so other MIDI gear can be connected. Via USB, Peak can be plugged into Mac or PC, where unlimited patches can be kept using the Components software.

Robert Jenkins, Product Strategy Director, Novation, said: 'Peak is a desktop polysynth to rival even the finest polys on the market today – and of years past. Peak is the result of Novation’s obsessive mission over the past decade to create a synthesiser that sounds entirely analogue yet gains the flexibility of the digital domain.'

Pricing and availability is as follows:

Peak
US = $1299.99 ex. tax
Germany = €1429.99 inc. 19% VAT
UK = £1249.99 inc. 20% VAT
Available worldwide from May 2017

Peak Stand
US = $99.99 ex. tax
Germany = €114.99 inc. 19% VAT
UK = £99.99 inc. 20% VAT
Available worldwide late 2017"

Hi-res shots follow. Click on each for the full size shot.

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