Korg minilogue bass - Limited Edition, Polyphonic Analog Synth
Minilogue Bass is the evolution of the iconic Korg Minilogue into an all analogue bass powerhouse.
An expandable poly-synth that retains the hands on control and immersive playability of the original, Minilogue Bass drops deep, dark, thunderous low-end for cutting production-ready bass.
Introducing the limited edition minilogue bass Polyphonic Analog Synthesizer! Product Manager Natalie Chami walks us through the striking new look of the minilogue bass with inverted red and black keys and a liquid swirl design front panel. In addition to the true rich analog capabilities of the original Korg minilogue, the minilogue bass comes with 100 new sounds, 40 of those programmed and voiced specifically for bass created by a team of professional bassists and programmers. Now’s the time to step outside the box and get down with the limited edition minilogue bass.
The track you hear in this video is by Natalie Chami aka TALsounds www.talsounds.com. All sounds used are from the minilogue bass: Noise Pad,1984, Juniper, Mild Mod Pad, Hika-Yawn.
KORG minilogue bass - Devonwho plays & talks about his designed sounds
Devonwho, musician, describes and performs the sounds he designed for minilogue bass.
KORG minilogue bass - Minoru Koike plays & talks about his designed sounds
Minoru Koike, a unique Japanese bassist, describes and performs the sounds he designed for minilogue bass.
0:00 Opening
0:07 #004 LoFat Bass
1:05 #045 ModCraze Bass
2:05 #049 Mild Mod Pad
3:33 #082 Slow Bass
Details:
Get down. Way down.
Get juice and squelch. Throbbing Drive. Greasy fatness. Liquid ooze. And all in genuine analog warmth and studio quality clarity.
KORG’s minilogue – with its completely unique analog signal path, compact format, easy-to-play slim keys, and extensive sound capabilities – is one of the most popular, best selling synthesizers in music history.
Now welcome the incredible limited edition minilogue bass; designed and voiced to add inspirational bass into your music.
minilogue bass features programs created by a specially selected group of bass playing and programming pros from around the world so you get a big variety of rich, analog synth bass sounds that will inspire you and help your music stand out.
Now’s the time to step outside the box and get down with the limited edition minilogue bass
Featuring bass preset programs developed with pro bassists and synth programmers
All of the programs on the minilogue bass have been optimized by professional bass players and synth programmers to fit perfectly into any recording or performance although they can all be edited and customized to your taste. You can change the thickness of the sound using the VCOs and voice mode, the brightness of the sound using the filter and so on. All of the 100 presets were newly created just for the minilogue bass and you can save up to 200 of your own sounds (100 preset programs and 100 user programs).
In addition, all the programs for the original minilogue will also work perfectly in the minilogue bass giving you access to a huge library of sounds covering all possible music and sound genres.
"AIRA Compact puts Roland’s legendary creative magic in the palm of your hand. Easily play and perform with these highly jammable instruments—anywhere, anytime. Chain them together to catalyze your creativity or connect with MIDI gear, computers, and music apps to expand your setup. Just power on and go with the flow.
About the T-8 Beat Machine
The T-8 Beat Machine is a mini rhythm factory with six tracks of pristine TR drums plus a TB-303 bass track. Embodying decades of modern musical sound, the T-8 gives you the power to create infectious tracks in seconds flat. Craft on-the-fly acid jams or trap bangers with the intuitive 16-step sequencer, shape sounds with onboard controls, and flip and dice beats with simple, yet powerful tools.
About the J-6 Chord Synthesizer
The J-6 is a portable synth toolbox with all the building blocks you'll need to bring harmonic substance to your jams. Pairing a powerfully unique chord sequencer with lavish JUNO-60 synth tones, J-6 packs a versatile feature set into a highly jammable format. Generate soul-stirring song ideas with the turn of a knob and explore 100 chord sets over a variety of genres. Experiment with styles and variations to coax dancing lines and rhythmic patterns from your chords. Add lush chorus, reverb, or delay to frost your sound.
About the E-4 Voice Tweaker
Harmonize, auto-pitch, vocode, loop, and glitch your voice all from the portable E-4 Voice Tweaker. Want hands-on control? Connect a mic or input a feed and easily explore effects using the sliders, function buttons, and scatter knob. From looping live jams to livestreaming or tightening up and expanding performances, the E-4 will transform your voice into your new favorite instrument.
"Roland's birthday party it's not over! A few days ago they sent me these little magic boxes to try them out and in less than an hour of tweaking, I came out with this song!!! The song title "A Big Tiny World" is because they are BIG sounding TINY boxes indeed! :D They are:
Their sound quality is astonishing! It's amazing to have the power of ACB technology in such a small form factor... Everything you hear in this video was played and recorded in real time, no post processing or FX was added. I had so much fun, I hope you like it!"
"Join our pal Dustin for the debut of the AIRA COMPACT line of synthesizers !
These three desktop style devices combine some of Roland's most recognizable and powerful sound palettes into a portable, affordable, and outrageously fun package!
Check out our in-depth Signal article for more details - https://bit.ly/3L08Msr
0:00 - Intro jam
1:07 - Overview of Aira Compact Line
2:54 - T-8 Drum Machine & Bass Synthesizer
5:50 - J-6 Four Voice Polyphonic Synthesizer
9:50 - E-4 Vocal Processor, Looper, & Effects
11:57 - Robot Acid BOPS !"
Fun, Pocket-Size Instruments with Innovative Creative Features, Authentic Roland Sounds, and Class-Leading Connectivity
Los Angeles, CA, May 10, 2022 — Roland announces AIRA Compact, an all-new series of ultra-portable instruments with free-flowing features for creative exploration and authentic Roland sounds. Fun, affordable, and easy to learn, the T-8 Beat Machine, J-6 Chord Synthesizer, and E-4 Voice Tweaker bring serious musical power to everyone from hobbyists and gadget collectors to tech-savvy pros.
AIRA Compact instruments let anyone jam, perform, and develop ideas on the go with friendly controls, inspiring sounds, and loads of intuitive music tools. Users can realize complete compositions with a single unit or expand their possibilities by connecting and synchronizing with other AIRA Compact models. From one master unit, multiple AIRA Compacts can be mixed and monitored with headphones or an external speaker system. It’s also possible to interface with computer DAWS, mobile music apps, and hardware instruments via USB-C or MIDI.
Driven by Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) and other advanced technologies found in top-line Roland instruments, AIRA Compact delivers the real-deal sounds behind decades of hit music. Users can create with the genuine voices of Roland icons, including TR rhythms, TB basses, JUNO synths, VT effects, and more.
Driven by Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) and other advanced technologies found in top-line Roland instruments, AIRA Compact delivers the real-deal sounds behind decades of hit music. Users can create with the genuine voices of Roland icons, including TR rhythms, TB basses, JUNO synths, VT effects, and more.
AIRA Compact strikes the perfect balance between portability and power. Each model is small enough to slip into a pocket and features an inviting panel to jump-start the creative flow for immediate results. Onboard lithium-ion batteries provide hours of continuous use per charge, while Roland’s famous build quality will support musical adventures for years to come.
T-8 Beat Machine
The T-8 Beat Machine combines iconic Roland drum and bass sounds in a go-everywhere rhythm factory. Beatmakers can build tracks with legendary sounds from the TR-808, TR-909, and TR-606 drum machines, paired with the shapeshifting low end of the dynamic TB-303 Bass Line. The six-track drum sequencer features the famous TR-REC workflow, enhanced with deep tools like step loop, pattern shift, probability, and others to generate dynamic performances with constantly evolving grooves. The T-8 also provides an authentic TB-303 bass experience, including the tactile power to squeeze, squelch, and mangle sounds in the moment.
J-6 Chord Synthesizer
The J-6 Chord Synthesizer is an endless well of musical inspiration, pairing a powerful chord sequencer with the lavish tones of the renowned JUNO-60 synth. Creators don’t need to know chords or theory to make music—they can simply call up one of 100 chords sets and build compelling chord progressions with one-touch presses on the built-in keyboard. Styles and variations are also available to coax dancing lines and rhythmic patterns from chords. Users can quickly string progressions together via step input, tweak the sound with dedicated filter and envelope controls, and add polish with customizable delay and reverb effects.
E-4 Voice Tweaker The E-4 Voice Tweaker combines advanced voice transformer tools and standard vocal effects with a hands-on interface that’s meant to be played. Performers can go from traditional vocal enhancements to punchy beatboxed grooves to striking alien soundscapes—all in a single tune. Pitch and formant sliders are available to instantly change the vocal gender, create robot voices, and more. Auto Pitch, automatic harmony, and vocoder processors are included, along with reverb, delay, and other effects. There’s also a built-in 24-second looper for capturing performances on the fly, plus a unique Scatter function for slicing and dicing the sound via a dedicated panel knob.
Availability & Pricing
The Roland AIRA Compact series is now available in the U.S. for $199.99 each."
littleBits Synth Kit - Published on Nov 8, 2013
"The littleBits synth kit is an incredibly powerful, easy to use modular synthesizer in the world. The Synth Kit enables amateur and professional musicians to easily explore the iconic synthesizer instrument, allowing you to build your own sound machines (with signal generators, modifiers, modulators and controllers) and put on your own performances - all with little to no engineering or musical knowledge.
Developed to inspire innovation in hardware, littleBits lets users create circuits in seconds, with no soldering, no programming and no wiring required. littleBits has been recognized as "LEGO for the iPad generation" and has been heralded as the most extensive, modular and accessible electronics platform in the world. The brand's Bits™ modules revolutionize the way people interact with technology by breaking down electronics into their very basic parts (lights, sounds, sensors, motors, programmable circuits), and making engineering fun and accessible to "non experts" of all ages including children , teachers, artists, designers, makers, hobbyists and tech-enthusiasts.
littleBits makes an open source library of electronic modules that snap together with magnets for prototyping, learning, and fun.
Find out more at littleBits.cc
Credit: Reggie Watts: youtube.com/reggiewattsjash"
Keytar - Published on Nov 8, 2013
"Create your own electronic instrument!"
Play a Song: Row Row Row Your Boat - Published on Nov 8, 2013
Serenade your friends! Go to littleBits.cc/synth for color coded instructions on how to play this song and others!
Pressure Sensitive Pitch Sweeps (Basic) - Published on Nov 8, 2013
Create a sound generator the responds to your applied pressure.
Pressure Sensitive Pitch Sweeps (Advanced) - Published on Nov 8, 2013
Create a sound generator that responds to your applied pressure.
Play A Song: Twinkle Twinkle Little Star - Published on Nov 8, 2013
Serenade your friends! Go to littleBits.cc/synth for color coded instructions on how to play this song and others!
Percussion Party - Published on Nov 8, 2013
Dance to the beat of your own drums!
Note: Noise is an un-pitched sound. It is often used as a way to create percussion sounds because most drums are un-pitched instruments.
Metal Music - Published on Nov 8, 2013
Recreate metallic sounds with the envelope!
Light Sensitive Sound - Published on Nov 8, 2013
Use a light sensor to change the pitch of the oscillator.
Spooky Sounds - Published on Nov 8, 2013
Create a supernatural soundtrack.
In this circuit, the peak knob has a large effect on what the cutoff knob does. It emphasizes certain frequencies and creates a "peak" at these frequencies. If the peak is turned all the way up, the emphasis can be strong enough to increase the loudness of the sound and in some cases create an oscillation.
Tuning - Published on Nov 8, 2013
Tuning is the relationship between the pitches in a musical instrument. Instruments need to be "tuned" and a synthesizer is no different. by tuning instruments, you can create "melodies" that are recognizable.
The tuning dial on the oscillator bits module will alter the relationship between pitches. This will be important when using the keyboard and micro sequencer.
Beats and Base - Published on Nov 8, 2013
Create a bass line with LFO filter sweeps and a drum beat.
8 Step Sequence - Published on Nov 8, 2013
Using additional modules from the littleBits library such as the latch and inverter, two micro sequencers can be used to create an 8 step sequence.
Filtering Noise: Create a unique sound using the filter module - Published on Nov 8, 2013
The filter is known as a low-pass filter. This means that frequencies higher than a certain point will be reduced or filtered out. When the peak is increased and the cutoff is adjusted the timbral effect can sounds like a person making vowel like sounds.
Key Player: Learn how to play notes on the keyboard - Published on Nov 8, 2013
A synthesizer is commonly controlled with a keyboard similar to a piano. Each key creates a voltage that represents a note. Since a synthesizer is electronic, it is not limited to the same notes a piano can play.
Frequency Modulation: Discover how two oscillators interact - Published on Nov 8, 2013
An oscillator can produce a frequency that is too low to be perceived as a pitch. In this case it is known as an LFO or low frequency oscillator. Because the oscillator in your kit can be both low frequency or audio range, you can turn up the frequency of one oscillator and feed it into another oscillator to create "frequency modulation".
Synthesizer with the works - Published on Nov 8, 2013
Create one monster synth with all of these modules!
Play a Song: When the saints go marching in - Published on Nov 8, 2013
Serenade your friends! Go to littleBits.cc/synth for color coded instructions on how to play this song and others!
White Noise: Experience the random module - Published on Nov 8, 2013
The random module has two modes and one of them is called "noise". Un-pitched sound is generally categorized as noise or a collection of many frequencies that are not distinguishable from one another. Unlike a waveform, noise has no repeating pattern.
Synth Band - Published on Nov 8, 2013
Learn how to play a melody with accompaniment.
Echo and Delay: Learn how to make infinite repeating sounds with the delay - Published on Nov 8, 2013
The delay affects the sound but unlike the filter, its primary function is not to add or subtract from the original sound but to reproduce it. Think of it as an echo in a large room or cave. You make a sound, and that sound gets repeated for some amount of time depending on how big the space is.
Shape Your Sounds: Experiment with the envelope - Published on Nov 8, 2013
The envelope of a sound has a big effect on the character of the sound. The controls on the envelope Bits module are "attack" and "decay".
ATTACK - Attack is how long it takes the sound to get to its loudest point
DECAY - Decay is how long it takes the sound to fade to silence.
[Note: you can find additional user videos futher below]
"The Roland S-1 Tweak Synth is a powerhouse micro polysynth that merges the legendary tones of the SH-101 with futuristic tools for the modern creator. Get reacquainted with the snappy bass tones and expressive leads brought to life in exquisite detail by our Analog Circuit Behavior technology. Then tap into a world of new creative possibilities with expanded four-voice polyphony and an array of innovative features, including cutting-edge wave manipulation, advanced sequencing, and unique performance features.
In this video, Dustin Good dives into the S-1 features, capabilities, sounds, and more.
0:00 – Introduction and Overview
1:32 – Sounds
2:01 – Basic Sound Design
2:35 – OSC Draw
3:13 – OSC Chop
3:44 – Riser
4:06 – Effects
4:33 – Sequencer
5:06 – Sub Steps
5:36 – Probability and Motion Recording
6:25 – Arpeggiator
6:54 - Performance Tools – Step Loop, Transpose, D-Motion
7:53 - Connectivity and Portability
Build from square, saw, sub, and noise oscillators and mono, poly, unison, and chord modes. Craft custom waveshapes with OSC Drawing. Dice sounds with OSC Chop to produce a labyrinth of overtones and metallic timbres. And use the noise oscillator as an independent riser to add sweeps and pulsing sound effects for transitions and dramatic effect.
Bring programming and performances to life with a 64-step sequencer, motion recording, and D-Motion. And humanize patterns with Probability, ratchet tones with Sub Steps, and create on-the-fly fills with Step Loop.
Sync the S-1 Tweak Synth with the rest of the AIRA Compact gang for a highly jammable micro-studio in perfect sonic symphony. Chain them together or connect with MIDI gear, computers, and music apps to expand your setup. Just power on, hit play, and go with the flow."
"In the mid-1980s, Roland released the now-famous TR-707 and TR-727 Rhythm Composers. Loved deeply by groove-minded musicians the world over, these machines have been the beating heart of a wide range of styles including synth pop, acid house, techno, industrial, electro and experimental. Now the sound of these classic rhythm machines, with every nuance accounted for, can be injected into your TR-8, taking the whole experience to an entirely new level. Every sound of the TR-707 and TR-727 Rhythm Composers, faithfully reproduced using the original PCM wave data and detailed models of the original circuitry. Analog Circuit Behavior captures the unmistakable sound of the original units – a result of lo-fi sampling and the behavior of the analog envelope and VCA circuitry design. Newly modified TR-909 kick and snare sounds with enhanced attack characteristics. Five new TR-808 sounds including Noise Toms, Noise Clap and Finger Snaps. Unique flam and accent behaviors of the TR-909 and TR-707, with adjustable flam intensity and two levels of accent. Upgrades the TR-8 to have all the sounds and articulations of four iconic TR drum machines, plus all new sounds, in one performance-ready instrument.
Adding the 7X7 Drum Machine Expansion takes the experience of playing a TR-8 to a whole new level. All 30 original TR-707 and TR-727 sounds – each with Tune and Decay controls – open up a whole world of sonic possibilities. Aside from the original TR-707 and TR-727 sounds, the 7X7 expansion includes new, never-before-heard sounds inspired by the original TR engineers. New TR-808 “noise” sounds and finger snaps bring ever more tonal variety and newly modified TR-909 kick and snare sounds take the classic combo into new territory with enhanced attack characteristics.
Once expanded with the 7X7, your TR-8 can have all the sounds of a TR-707, 727, 808, 909 and more – newly color-coded by kit for easy selection. And the eight stage flam of the TR-909 and versatile accent behavior of the TR-707 dramatically enhance how you can manipulate the feel of a groove. Any step can have a weak or strong hit, a weak or strong accent, an adjustable flam, step based effects and side chain. All the sounds and behaviors of four iconic TR drum machines, plus the TR-8’s own dynamic swing, rolls, playable faders, and across-the-board tune and decay controls make the TR-8 the most advanced Roland drum machine we’ve ever built.
The TR-707’s predecessor, the TR-909, was developed as an analog-digital hybrid rather than a fully digital device. As memory chips and digital-to-analog converters were very expensive at the time, there was concern that an all-digital design would make the product unaffordable for too many musicians. Also, while PCM sound generation could produce more realistic drum sounds, it offered little in the way of tone editing.
After the TR-909’s release however, digital PCM became the trend for synthesizers and drum machines. We embraced this trend with the TR-707 and TR-727, but expensive memory and lack of high-precision D/A converters resulted in a 25kHz, 8-bit (or 6-bit for some tones) sample playback engine that was primitive by today’s standards. Though the TR-707 and TR-727 were developed primarily for rhythm programming and did not give users the ability to edit their sounds, they were ultimately appreciated for their characteristic lo-fi punch and continue to be sought after to this day.
CAPTURING THE ORIGINALS
Even though the TR-707 and TR-727 were primarily digital devices, it would not have been possible to perfectly replicate their sound using samples. Due to the low bit-rates of the original units, quantization noise became a problem, particularly during the sound’s decay. To reduce quantization noise, a clever design was employed where PCM sound was produced using non-decaying waveforms and decay was then introduced in the analog circuitry after being converted. Also, at the time these units were developed, deviations in the clock that triggered the PCM caused differences in pitch, and deviations in the analog circuitry downstream of the D/A converter caused variances in decay characteristics.
To replicate these sounds for the TR-8, we started with the original PCM wave data found on the classic machines. We then used our ACB process to completely model the PCM output stage, carefully including all of its quirks and instabilities. Modeling the analog envelope and amplifier stages that came after the D/A converter allowed us to implement the “Tune” and “Decay” parameters that are available on the TR-8, but not present on the original units.
A SEVEN IN YOUR EIGHT…AND THEN SOME
Adding the 7X7 Drum Machine Expansion takes the experience of playing a TR-8 to a whole new level. All 30 original TR-707 and TR-727 sounds—each with Tune and Decay controls—open up a whole world of sonic possibilities. Aside from the original TR-707 and TR-727 sounds, the 7X7 expansion includes four new, never-before-heard sounds inspired by the original TR engineers. New TR-808 “noise” sounds and finger snaps bring ever more tonal variety and newly modified TR-909 kick and snare sounds take the classic combo into new territory with enhanced attack characteristics.
Once expanded with the 7X7, your TR-8 can have all the sounds of a TR-707, 727, 808, 909 and more—newly color-coded by kit for easy selection. And the eight stage flam of the TR-909 and versatile accent behavior of the TR-707 dramatically enhance how you can manipulate the feel of a groove. Any step can have a weak or strong hit, a weak or strong accent, an adjustable flam, step based effects and side chain. All the sounds and behaviors of four iconic TR drum machines, plus the TR-8’s own dynamic swing, rolls, playable faders, and across-the-board tune and decay controls make the TR-8 the most advanced Roland drum machine we’ve ever built."
The first thing to note is the mini keyboards on these are optional. They are all desktop synths and the front panel can be angled to different degrees including flat when mounted to the keyboard. Each is a four voice synth but can be chained to add an additional 4 voices per unit. Each can run on batteries and has a built-in speaker. The keyboard is purchased separately. Details and pics on each follow.
"Roland JP-08 Synthesizer Module
The legendary Jupiter-8 synth is back - as a limited-edition module no bigger than a book. Part of the Roland Boutique series, the JP-08 is all about hands-on control and that iconic Jupiter sound. With an array of 36 knobs and sliders from the original Jupiter-8 front panel, the 4-voice JP-08 is highly programmable and encourages sonic experimentation, especially with the built-in speaker and battery operation. Using Roland's acclaimed Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) technology the JP-08 faithfully reproduces the original Jupiter-8 sounds and adds a few new twists in the form of extra LFOs and expanded VCO range. You can even slide the JP-08 into the K-25m keyboard unit (not included) for a self-contained, go-anywhere synth experience.
Huge Synth. Small Package.
The Jupiter-8 was a big synth in every way; physically imposing with loads of knobs and sliders, and most importantly, a huge sound. The JP-08 retains the big sound of the Jupiter-8 but shrinks everything else - including the price - into a module measuring under 12" across.
Hands-on control
With such an expressive sound engine, you'll want to shape the sounds to match your mood. With 36 of the original parameters accessible from the front panel, the JP-08 is all about hands-on control, and even users of the Jupiter-8 will quickly feel at home as the user interface and programming 'feel' is highly reminiscent of the original.
New Sound-Shaping Options
Even though the JP-08 is an authentic recreation of the Jupiter-8, Roland also included a few extras. The JP-08 adds several new waveforms to the original architecture, including TRI and NOISE for the LFO and SIN for VCO-1, and both VCOs have an expanded range for even more sound shaping potential.
"Hans Zimmer's 'RadioPhonic' Synth from AJH Synth @ Superbooth 24 - This monster MiniMod Eurorack modular system was commissioned by Hans himself, and he was kind enough to allow us to build a limited number of exact replicas which will be individually built to order by AJHSynth. Full details of the system, along with an interview with Hans Zimmer about his use of the MiniMod system, can be found at https://ajhsynth.com.
We will have one such RadioPhonic system on display in our bungalow at Superbooth 24, along with a MinMod Keyz, a 9U full system, and a huge monster case full of AJH modules.
Richard Quirk, and Wayne Taylor (DreamsOfWires/Tomorrow the cure) will also be there representing AJH with Allan J Hall himself. We'd be glad to chat about the modules and demonstrate some in action, so feel free to pop by.
The AJH SYNTH Eurorack range consists of high-end modules, all hand-made in the UK, most of which are based on classic, vintage designs, authentically recreating the circuitry of much sought-after analogue instruments and technologies of the past, whilst greatly expanding them, and bringing them to modern Eurorack levels of convenience, limitless flexibility, and reliability.
Official website page: https://ajhsynth.com"
Published on Feb 13, 2014 RolandChannel·835 videos
"Groundbreaking artists talk about their experiences with Roland instruments and make first contact with the AIRA gear. Artists appearing are: Arthur Baker, Ricardo Villalobos, A Guy Called Gerald, Rain Man, Netsky, Oscar Burnside, Boys Noize, Dr Meaker, Hardfloor, John Heckle, Hisashi Saito, and Akkord."
Update2: You can find comments and discussion on this post on The MATRIXSYNTH Lounge here. I also added a page break for this post on the main site so it doesn't slow the site down for new posts. Click the "Click for more" link to get to the full post.
"The next generation of music workstations is here—KRONOS has returned. With a fast boot time, an enhanced touchscreen, and a refined aesthetic design, this next-generation powerhouse sets a new standard in versatility and performance capabilities."
"Recreation of the song using sounds programmed from scratch (no sampling), mostly with Massive and also Monark from Native Instruments.
Kick drum and Snare from Battery 4.
Mix done mainly with Reaper stock plugins.
I think is close to the original and shows the capabilities of both Massive and Monark.
For every single sound in the song there is / there will be a tutorial in this channel. At the moment Pt 3 is uploaded and currently working in video Pt 4 (the Bassline)."
"Known for its massive amount of hands-on controls with an unapologetically
electronic sound palette, the vintage JD-800 helped define the sounds of the
‘90s and beyond. The JD-800 Software Synthesizer allows you to get the coveted
spacious sounds and hands-on experience of the original inside your DAW—with
modern upgrades.
Surf the 64 original presets, plus 64 new presets
using the original waveforms and crafted by top sound engineers. You can dive
even deeper into your music creation and stack sounds with the expanded
polyphony. Then, dig into seven multistage effects including
distortion/overdrive, enhancer, spectrum equalizer, phaser, chorus, triple-tap
delay, and a selection of reverbs with an expanded view for real-time tweaking.
View all of this on the hyper-realistic interface to bring the JD-800 into your
present-day workflow.
More Details: • 64 original presets, plus
64 new presets • Recreation of JD-800’s two-stage, multi-effects section
with drag and drop reorder • 7 effects: chorus, phaser, enhancer,
distortion, spectrum, delay, and reverb • Detailed, realistic interface is
resizable and includes alternate views • Expanded polyphony versus the
original hardware • VST3, AAX, and AU with support for Apple silicon
In
this video: 0:00 – Introduction 0:37 – Sounds 1:31 – Presets 3:34
– Lead Sound Presets 5:05 – Programming 6:58 – Envelopes 8:10 –
Filters 11:29 – Effects
The JD-800 Software Synthesizer is available for download through
Roland Cloud. Sign up for a 30-day trial of Roland Cloud Ultimate membership and
try the JD-800 Software Synthesizer for free. Plus, you’ll have access to the
ever-expanding Roland Cloud universe, including other legendary Roland virtual
instruments and effects, expanded sound content, and so much more."
And the press release:
"Authentic Software Recreation of the Iconic ’90s Digital Synth, Available
Exclusively Through Roland Cloud
Los Angeles, CA, October 26, 2021 — Roland announces the JD-800 Software
Synthesizer, the latest addition to the Legendary series of software-based
Roland instruments available through Roland Cloud. In early 2021—30 years after
the debut of the original JD-800 hardware synth—Roland introduced the JD-800
Model Expansion for the ZENOLOGY software synthesizer and select ZEN-CORE
hardware instruments. Now, the anniversary celebration continues with the
release of this iconic digital instrument as a dedicated DAW plug-in. The JD-800
Software Synthesizer delivers a virtual recreation of the original’s unique
sound and inviting control-laden interface, along with a host of new features
and enhancements for today’s music producers.
Wolfgang Palm posted the following on his website (see my notes below)
"The first time I thought about an iPad project was last autumn. The more I got into it and the more information I collected, it sounded interesting to me.
I first did a pilot project on PC, just to check out the possibilities of a creative wavetable construction system, where you draw your waveforms and spectra and hear the result directly. This is especially challenging with the touch panel on the iPad.
When I had done this and convinced myself that it is a great tool and gives fantastic audio results, I bought a Mac and an iPad, and started programming for the real device. I inducted Cornel Hecht into the project, and he helped with the cool graphics and had many great ideas as well.
Later I invited some very experienced people like Peter Gorges and Jay de Miceli to help me with beta-testing and sound design. We also have 'nachtsmeer' and Kenneth Abildgaard in the team who have also contributed countless ideas.
I am also very thankful for the help of Russ Hughes who runs Sociatech, a specialist marketing and PR company, his expertise in helping get the message out has shown amazing results. If you have any kind of tech product you need to tell people about, then I recommend him to you.
So yesterday the WaveGenerator app was sent to Apple for approval, and we hope that it will be in the Apple App Store soon.
It is good to be back and to be able to share my creative ideas with the world in these new ways – I had a vision and here it is, it has the DNA of my first baby, but this grandchild has a 21st century personality.
Thank you for your support!"
It's great to see him back and it's great to see him embrace the iPad.
------
On the Death of Digital Hardware Synths:
Traditional digital hardware synths that is. The iPad is hardware after all. (see Update2 below)
For a while I've been thinking the iPad will be the death of traditional digital hardware synthesizers for several reasons - lower cost, size, ability to morph into whatever you want it to be, and it acts and feels like real hardware because it is real hardware. It's just as much hardware as any other traditional hardware synth running digital synthesis software. The iPad should not be equated with running software emulations on the PC or Mac, it should be equated with hardware synths with touch interfaces like the Korg Kronos and Jupiter-80, or the PPG Realizer. All digital synths are software based. My lust for digital hardware diminished ever since I picked the first gen iPad and Sunrizer and compared it with my Roland JP-8000. I picked up the JP-8000 new for about $1100 back when it came out. I picked up Sunrizer when it was called Horizon Synth for $4.99. Think about that. $4.99 for a full blown VA synth with a morphable touch interface and it sounds great. The cost of the iPad and Sunrizer was less than the JP-8000 and you have access to a plethora of other synths, sequencers and controllers. Hook it up to your MIDI keyboard of choice and with the likes of Animoog, NLogSynth Pro, Magellan, Cassini Synth, Peter Vogel CMI (a Fairlight for $50!!!), Korg's iMS20, SynthX, and now the PPG WaveGenerator and Waldorf & Tempo Rubato's upcoming synth, and you have a hardware synth. With the iPad in it's third generation, older models will only continue go down in price, so the ability to have multiple iPads for cheap isn't too far off. There is one concern I had lingering though. Battery life. Eventually I'm guessing the batteries in the iPad will die, but I say had, because with something like the Alesis iO dock this may not be an issue. You can power it and have all your IO available at the same time. I should note my first gen iPad battery is still going strong.
It will be interesting to see what hardware synth manufacturers do next. They will have to offer synthesis methods not available in apps for the iPad, and as time goes on those differences will only shrink. You can't replicate analog, so maybe we will see more of that including hybrid synths. As for full blown digital, I can see manufacture's having a flagship synth for the pro musician on the road, a flagship controller for the iPad, and apps to go along with it. I think there will always be an audience for each, but there is no denying the iPad has become a option for digital hardware synthesis.
Update2 6/30/2014: I wanted to expand on my initial commentary on the "death of digital hardware" above. If you read it, you might think I prefer the iPad to dedicated hardware synths when it comes to digital only. Far from it. It was written from the perspective of the potential impact the iPad could have on the world of hardware synthesis. It was a look into the possible future and not meant to be a look into the present or even the near future. The thought was that if you had a portable hardware device capable of turning into any digital hardware synth you might need, at a fraction of the price of a full blown hardware equivalent, what would you do? The answer? It depends on your needs, preferences and funds. Personally, I like the convenience and portability of the iPad but I love the feel and tactile relationship dedicated hardware instruments have to offer. The iPad offers the engine, but lacks the body unless you're Synth-Project. The new Akai MPC line tries to bridge some of that, but is it enough?
"You can hear Bass Station 2 showing its analogue capabilities in this great Bassline written by DM. As the 'movement' in this sound is as important as the patch itself, I have included the Logic X project and the midi file if you want to work with other DAW. Of course the BS2 patch is also included ;).
In the logic project there are project and tracks explanations and you can also email me if you need any kind of help.You can sculpt the sound with just small modification of the MIDI data.
You can get everything here for a symbolic price here: https://www.fiverr.com/share/P6WpNL. or if you prefer, contact me.
No effects of any kind used in this video, just the sound of Bass Station 2. No reverb, no eq, no mixing, no processing. Of course the drum sound is the original, looped.
Thanks for watching"
1. Bristronica 24: MyVolts The Silent Alchemist Nears Shipping
We caught up with Caroline who gave us the latest update to the *Silent Alchemist*, a versatile power hub designed for musicians. Featuring five isolated USB-C outputs and a high-wattage sixth output capable of delivering 100 watts, the device can power a Mac with the remaining outputs providing 20 watts each. Its independent circuits ensure noise-free operation, catering to a variety of devices including the Dreadbox module and Sysmo slope generator.
The Silent Alchemist uses innovative step-up power tips to convert USB-C input to the correct voltage for various devices. There's also new feature: an uninterruptible power supply allowing seamless transition between wall and power bank sources. Also introduced were updated cables, such as silver candy cords and floating ring TRS to TS cables, expanding connection flexibility. The Silent Alchemist is expected to be available in December with a competitive pricing strategy.
At Bristronica 2024, we caught up with the creator of the *ML2M*, who introduced us to the latest version. The ML2M is a compact Eurorack module with Wi-Fi capabilities, allowing seamless synchronization with Ableton Live, Bitwig Studio, and iOS music apps using Ableton Link without the need for cables. It either connects to an existing network or creates its own, ensuring robust sync even in environments with unreliable Wi-Fi. The module, which retains its 2HP size, now features MIDI integration through TRS jacks. Users can access a web interface to configure each output for different clock divisions and reset triggers, making setup straightforward and flexible.
Alongside the ML2M, there's also the Missing Link Junior. This desktop version offers the same functionality but in a box format, complete with MIDI and CV clock outputs. Both products are now accessible, with a starting price of $250.
At Machina Bristronica 2024, we caught up with Arran from @archaea_modular_synthesis who presented the *Exchange Module*. This programmable patcher, a year in the making, evolved from its early prototype stage to a fully functional module. Arran explained how the Exchange can route synth voices via a beam controller and three exchange modules installed within the skiff, allowing for versatile patching. Operating like a matrix patchbay, it enables users to select inputs and outputs with the push of a button, create presets, and chain multiple modules for synchronized patching.
Communication between the modules occurs over the Eurorack power bus as well as over MIDI via the USB-C connection. The Exchange maintains analog integrity, ensuring there’s no conversion latency. The forthcoming release expected in late November 2024, includes a USB-driven editor for enhanced control capabilities.
"Three more iconic Roland products, now available as affordable, limited-edition sound modules.
Recreating the sound and user interface of the TR-909, TB-303 and VP-330, each module is packed with hands-on controls for deep editing, while battery operation and built-in speaker lets you make music on the move.
With all the sonic power of the originals, plus some brand new features, the second wave of Roland Boutique gear lets you add even more classics to your library."
"Presenting the Teisco S-100F Synthesizer 100F, a vintage analog monophonic synth that stands as a testament to classic sound design and versatility. Rest assured, this unit is FULLY WORKING, ready to transport you back to the golden era of analog synthesis.
Featuring a single VCO, the Synthesizer 100F delivers a rich array of sonic possibilities, with sawtooth, square, and noise waveforms at your fingertips. Additionally, external sounds can be seamlessly integrated and manipulated through the synth's filters and envelopes, offering boundless creative potential.
Despite its monophonic nature, the Synthesizer 100F offers ample modulation capabilities to breathe life into your sound. An onboard LFO can modulate the VCO, VCF, and VCA, while the resonant filter can be further shaped by various modulation sources, including the LFO, Envelope 1, external input, or even the VCO itself.
With a comprehensive VCA section complete with Attack, Decay, Sustain, and Release controls, as well as a Hi-Pass filter and portamento effect, the Synthesizer 100F provides all the tools necessary for crafting classic analog bass, lead, and synth sounds with ease.
Sporting the iconic wood side panels and an intuitive front panel layout, programming the Synthesizer 100F is a breeze, allowing for straightforward access to its wealth of features and functions."
Left: Manfred Fricke (via Amazona.de) back in the day with his first creations, the MFB-501 drum machine (right), and MFB-601 digital sequencer (left).
2nd image is Manfred Fricke with the MFB SYNTH II at SUPERBOOTH (unknown source).
We lost another legend in the synth world. Sad news in via STROMKULT:
"'On June, 17th around 11am Manfred Fricke from Berlin alias MFB sadly passed away after having had a hard time with cancer for a while already. He left his wife Gloria and his son Jean-Marcel behind, we are all very sad having lost this partner, friend and father.'
HerrSchneider
Manfred Fricke was one of Berlins pioneers of analog synth and drum machine makers. He has been the weapon of choice for many (not only) starting musicians. Let’s be honest, who didn’t have one of his creations early in his or hers journey into electronic musical instruments – or at least thought about getting one – and why shouldn’t you? Manfred Fricke's machines always brought something unique to the table, they were mostly analog, affordable, in small plastic housings and just did the job. Manfred always focused on keeping his products affordable for his clients and the instruments quite often made their way to professional use later on, and the musicians often kept their first units as something almost holy, because it were these machines that paved the way into analog electronic music making.
But it would be too short-sighted to associate MFB only with budget entry-level products. Especially the drum machines Tanzbär and Tanzbär II, or the great Dominion 1 show that Manfred Fricke also built machines that met higher demands. The Tanzbär, in particular, is considered by many to be their favorite drum machine of the last few years, especially in terms of its amazing sound.
We hope that MFB will continue to exist and that it will continue to make it easier for many generations of musicians to enter the world of electronic sound production.
We wish Manfred Fricke's son Jean-Marcel continued success for the future of MFB and extend our condolences to him and his family. And lets hope that Manfred will finally meet up with all the other good guys on the other side.
MFB's Manfred Fricke's first procuct, the Fricke MFB-501 drum machine.
Description via this video:
"This little analog beatbox was developed in 1980 1979 by Manfred Fricke. It was offered at 380 DM. As a low-cost model on the market for analog rhythm generators the small black and white "Switch Box" quickly found a lot of friends, because its configuration could be compared to its expensive far east competitors: 64 patterns and as many fill-ins switchable via micro switches, speed control via potentiometer, 10 analog percussion instruments (activated by means of micro switches), combined mono/stereo outputs (jack), In & Out (5 Vss) and trigger footswitch inputs (jack) for start and fill-in
(retail price for the switch at 16 DM). An external wall power supply provides 12 volts.
Approx. 5000 units of the MFB-501 had been sold. Not so bad for a one-man company. So this drum machine is one of the top-selling devices in the history of the Berlin engineer offices M. Fricke . If you're lucky, this iconic device can still be found on the relevant internet sales platforms.
Today, maintenance of this tiny noise machine is still easily feasible, because Fricke employed only commercially available components. Therefore, 'presumedly dead 501's' can be reanimated without major problems."
MFB 601 Vintage Digital Sequencer, Teardown, Repair and partial analysis
Published on Feb 2, 2015 FPV Electronics
Note this video is FPV Electronics of course, and not Manfred Fricke.
"This device is exclusively built from 7400 and 4000 series basic logic ICs. Making it must have been so much more difficult than just programming a generic µController as we would do today."
1976: MFB was founded by engineer Manfred Fricke. So far there were more than some hundred products constructed and distributed. The first developments and products were primarly video games for industrial playmachines.
1979: A lowcost drummachine was introduced in 1979. (98 DM for the self construction kit). The legendary drumcomputer MFB-501 was finished and sold. Although it was not the most prominent drumcomputer of that time it surely was one of the best selling drum units in Germany. Some shops sold ten times more MFB-501s than Roland TR-808s. More products for the musician followed, such as the Digital-Sequencer MFB-601 and the digital drum machine MFB-512. All of these featured rich products were offered at exceptional low prices.
1984: The E-Drum module series 1000 and 2000 followed with corresponding pads.
1986: A new construction period started in 1986 with product launches of the MIDI-CV converter MFB-201 and the MIDI drummer MFB-SYNTH was finished in 1997, although its development dates back to the eighties. The machine never went into production since 2001, the year of the company´s 25th anniversary because of decreased interest in analogue synthesizer technology especially in the sales channels.
From 1986 Manfred Fricke specialized in products for video applications. Alone 20 different framegrabbers for the Apple II, C-64 und IBM compatible PCs were constructed. A very high percentage of these framegrabbers were and are still in use for special industrial purposes. Custom development is still done here, so these specialized tools are not available for other customers.
1994: MFB introduced the world´s first videomixer below 1.000 DM, the MFB-901. Its successor MFB-902 was available in 1995. Another important development in the video section was the model MFB-912, a digital video memory. This 1998 product was highly acclaimed by the press.
1999: The successor MFB-915 added sound and higher picture resolution. It´s available since October 1999. Another successor is the model MFB-920 with an integrated harddrive offering better options for nonlinear cutting and post processing of the recorded material.
2001: During this year, Manfred Fricke also developed another new MIDI drum-module. MFB-KULT, includes most of the famous sounds of the older machines. Both MFB-SYNTH and MFB-KULT are availabale since December 2001. Because of constant requests for the digital sequencer MFB-601 a successor MFB-602. was introduced in May 2002.
2002: Since August 2002 there´s also a little brother of the MFB-SYNTH, the MFB-SYNTH LITE
"Yamaha CS80 vs. Modern Clones: Arturia CS-80V and Cherry GX-80 – Ultimate Sound Comparison!
Join me as I dive deep into the world of the iconic Yamaha CS80 and its modern VST emulations, the Arturia CS-80V and Cherry GX-80. The CS80 is a favorite of mine due to its intuitive design, unmatched keyboard action, and aftertouch. However, its rarity, size, and cost can make it less practical for everyday use.
In this video, I compare these legendary synths to see if the virtual versions can faithfully replicate the unique sound and feel of the real CS80. The video includes various sections such as:
Famous CS80 Riffs - Hear classics like Toto's "Africa," Bruce Springsteen's "Born in the USA," and George Benson's "In Your Eyes" played on all three synths.
Oscillator Breakdown - Detailed exploration of the individual oscillators.
Factory Presets - A look at the original CS80 and emulation presets.
Pitch Bend Slide Bar - A comparison of each synth's pitch bending capabilities.
Programming Bell Sounds - Learn how to craft bell sounds using sine waves and the CS80’s legendary ring modulator.
Raw Sound Analysis - Exclusive segments featuring dry, raw sounds without any effects.
Summary and Verdict - I conclude with a summary of which synth stands out, both as the ultimate synth and best plug-in version.
Don’t forget to subscribe to my channel and leave your thoughts in the comments section!
00:00 Preview 00:38 Intro 01:12 "Superstition" – Stevie Wonder 01:51 "Africa" – Toto 02:24 "Born in the USA" – Bruce Springsteen 03:20 Individual Waveform Comparison Including Filter and Resonance 04:45 Pulse Width, including Modulation, Filter and Resonance 06:30 Dual Channel Waveforms 08:30 Preset Comparison – Brass, Including Aftertouch 09:17 Strings 2 Including Aftertouch 10:05 Pitch Bend Strip 11:00 Programming Bell Sound with Ring Modulator 12:29 "In Your Eyes" – George Benson 13:12 "Superstition" – Stevie Wonder – No FX 13:42 "Africa" – Toto – No FX 13:57 "Born in the USA" – Bruce Springsteen – No FX 14:50 Preset Comparison – Brass – No FX 15:30 Strings – No FX 16:15 Pitch Bend Strip – No FX 17:06 "In Your Eyes" – George Benson – No FX 17:48 Summary 18:00 Thank You"
Throbbing Drive. Greasy fatness. Liquid ooze. And all in genuine analog warmth and studio quality clarity. 
