A short RK008 Quantize grid example loop

video upload by Retrokits

"Recording realtime gives you complete freedom of playing - but sometimes a quantize grid can help you out, also production- wise.The quantize grid in the RK008 is capable of separately altering note on, note length or note off.

A note-off is part of the groove and you can use the grid options to tighten up sounds but also make the most of a synth with limited polyphony, timing note-offs perfectly before starting a new one.

PS: I'm focusing on the quantize grid here, you can also adapt the length of a note in a percentage of the original which is not shown in this movie. You can check the complete RK008 Quantize menu here:"

RK008 Menus: ALT+6 - QUANTIZE

video upload by Retrokits

"RK008 Menu 6 houses real-time Quantize transformations.
The first part (ALT+6) is for note-on quantize, straightening out played notes on a user-selectable grid:

Digit 1 to 6 select a timebase;
Digit 1 - 2 - 3: 1/64 - 1/32 - 1/16
Digit 4 - 5 - 6: 1/8 - 1/4 - 1/2
Digit 7 - 8 - 9: decrease - 1/16 center - increase
(inc/dec is also accessible via ALT+DEC and ALT+INC)

Tapping a digit multiple times will also allow you do select a dotted or triplet grid For example in case of a 16/th note-on Quantize(3):
1x tap: 1/16
2x tap: 1/16D (dotted, notes are 1.5 times a 16th note)
3x tap: 1/16T (Triplets, notes are 1/3rd length of a 16th note)

Pressing INC will slide to the Swing settings which have the same type of interface, selecting timebases with 1-6 and making adjustments with 7-9.

Pressing INC again will slide to the Note Length Quantize part. In this menu you will be able to quantize the note length to fixed length - or- only quantize note off fixed to a grid.

For example - on the 16th Note Length Quantize (3)
1x tap: 16th length fixed
2x tap: 16th- length staccato (length is cut just before the next 16th note)
3x tap: 16th+ length legato (length will just overlap the next 16th note)
4x tap: Q_16 note off length is snapped to a 16th note grid
5x tap: Q_16- note off length is snapped to a 16th note grid staccato style
6x tap: Q_16+ note off length is snapped to a 16th note grid legato style

The @EspenKraft video mentioned is here:" [posted here]

#Synthuary2020 / #Jamuary2020 - 10

#jamuary2020 Day 10 - Elektron Digitakt

Published on Jan 10, 2020 Oscillator Sink

See the Synthuary label for more. Synthuary because these are the Jamuary synth videos. More below.

"Oh wow this one was fun to make.

It has been a good few months since I last sat down with the Digitakt and, like its FM cousin, it remains just so inspiring and fun. This one was a real head-bobber while I was recording.

The project I was working in was the same one as my Digitakt set from last year, so the samples used are the same, but the result was quite different from anything in that set.

Anyway, I had a big dumb smile on my face the whole time I was working on this one, so I hope that comes across in the finished product."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Volca jam for February 10th, 2018

Published on Feb 10, 2018 Slenterende Beer

"Saturday afternoon jam. :)

Korg Volca Sample + Retrokits RK-002 + Korg Monotron Delay
Korg Volca Bass + Zoom MS-50G
Korg Volca FM + Zoom MS-70CDR (bypass)
Korg Volca Keys + GFI System Specular Reverb V2
Arturia Beatstep Pro
Arturia Keystep
Miditech MIDI Thru/Filter
Retrokits RK-004
Behringer XENYX QX1002USB

Volca FM patch by Oscillator Sink"

RK008 Menus: ALT+1 - LENGTH

video upload by Retrokits

"What's under RK008 button number 1??
Part Length, Time Signature, Scales and Part Name editing. In this video I'll show you a thing or two - or.. ehr maybe seven.

https://retrokits.com/rk008/

Note that the Flex MIDI Time Stretch and Thin Track / Zap Double Notes are RK008 firmware 1.17+ additions."

SYNTHFEST 2019 - Retrokits RK006 Micro MIDI Router

Published on Oct 8, 2019 sonicstate

"More excellent Retrokits problem solving with the RK006 compact MIDI hub. its a MIDI interface with 10 MIDI ports using mini-jacks using breakout cables, so you can tailor to suit the stand your gear uses.

Working in client or host mode

With 2x MIDI inputs (merged)

and multiple outputs and plenty of filtering and clock output options.

All configured via the browser and Web MIDI.

Clever stuff - should be available soon (end of the year) priced at €129"

RK008 Menus: ALT+5 - TRANSFORM & ALT+4 - FILTER / VELOCITY SCALING

video upload by Retrokits

"The RK008 Transform menu can be used for transposing Tracks (according to global scale if desired) and Time shifts. Combined with Performance mode (ALT+ROUTE) you can even transpose according to MIDI Key input."

RK008 Menus: ALT+4 - FILTER / VELOCITY SCALING

video upload by Retrokits

"Not a big menu, but combined with the others in this row ( TRANSFORM / QUANTIZE) you'll find it a handy one.

The Filter menu modifies per Track MIDI IN and MIDI OUT. It houses a velocity scaler and a filter for MIDI Notes, Control Changes, Program Changes, Aftertouch and Pitchbend. It can change the way you play your keyboard but can also be used (in combination with ALT+3, MIXDOWN) to clean up your recording."

You can find additional RK008 Menus video posts here.

Digitakt + RK-002 POLYPHONIC synthesizer

Published on Jan 1, 2018 Dave mech

"In this video I thoroughly demo the rk-002 cable by retrokits in combination with the Elektron Digitakt. The Digitakt becomes a wonderful polyphonic synthesizer!

It's the longest video I recorded up till now. I start building a patch from scratch. If you want to hear more complex immediately sounds, just skip to 15+ minutes :)

You can order the rk-002 here (select the Modifier firmware):
https://www.retrokits.com/rk-002/"

I hear these are also useful for chaining KORG Volcas for additional polyphony.

Retrokits RK-007 MIDI Commander

Published on Oct 31, 2019 Retrokits

"Showing the workings of the RK-007 MIDI Commander DIY Project. Not your average number; This one is a little device to hack into your MIDI Setup. We made it with minimal amount of ( - cheap & easy to find - ) parts and soldering and devised a smart use of the keypad for easy and versatile use. It could be a handy tool to keep in your MIDI setup - and perhaps even be a good starting point for other firmware you find even more useful: This one you can build in Q-Style!

Project files and code are here: https://drive.google.com/open?id=10vM..."

RK-006 Digitakt and Microbrute (MIDI / USBMIDI / PWM)

video by Retrokits

"Not the crispiest of videos but hopefully an informative one.

Apart from the iOS app, you can also access all settings via a browser. The web-editor is available in Chrome, Edge, Brave,... (but not Safari..)
https://www.retrokits.com/rk006/setti...

If you need to smoothen out the RK006 PWM Signal to a more analog style voltage we also have the PWM2CV converters for the RK006, to see them in action, also view our instagram posts like this one: https://www.instagram.com/p/CE7NCbShXjh/"

RetroKits MIDI Solutions At Superbooth 2018

Published on May 13, 2018 Synthtopia

"At Superbooth 2018, RetroKits gave us a quick overview of their line of cable, hub & host MIDI solutions."

Friday Fun Synth Jam - Argon8, Zoom MS70 CDR, Pittsburgh 3900

Published on May 29, 2020 sonicstate

"Another in our occasional series as we head into our 3rd month of lockdown. This time we're using the Modal Electronics Argon8M with OS2.0, the Pittsburgh Modular MicroVolt 3900, the Zoom MS70 CDR Fx pedal and the ROLI Seaboard Block and the Arturia Keystep. Together with the Retrokits RK006 USB MIDI host/router.

The ROLI is driving the Argon8 via the RetroKits RK006, allowing for direct MPE connection with no computer, the Keystep is running the MicroVolt 3900 which in turn is going into the Modal stereo line in. Argon8 then goes into the Zoom and out."

Alesis MMT-8 recreated - The impossible dream? Retrokits RK-008 sequencer demo

video upload by Espen Kraft

"The iconic Alesis MMT-8 was the first midi sequencer for many people in the late 80s. A superb sequencer, very easy to use and a fantastic piece of kit. Now Retrokits has made a smaller, yet very inspired MMT-8 recreation, which captures much of the original magic."

Volca Ambient & Techno Jam (2018-01-19 Part I)

Published on Jan 20, 2018 Slenterende Beer

"Live jam using 4 Korg Volcas and some effects.

Korg Volca Sample + Retrokits RK-002
Korg Volca Bass + Zoom MS-50G
Korg Volca Keys + GFI System Specular Reverb V2
Korg Volca FM + Zoom MS-70CDR
Arturia Beatstep Pro
Arturia Keystep
Retrokits RK-004
Behringer XENYX QX1002USB

Recorded with iPhone 7 and Behringer UCA202.
Samples by Loopmasters."

Retrokits RK-008 (and more) - Gesprächskonzert SUPERBOOTH23

video upload by Superbooth Berlin

"Retrokits present their RK-008: Real Time Multitrack MIDI Recorder and other MIDI tools during this Gesprächskonzert at SUPERBOOTH23."

The RK-002 PolyMUX effect

Published on Jan 31, 2018 Retrokits

"PolyMUX is a MIDI chain (polychain) effect in the RK-002/MOD firmware.

You can use it inside multi-MIDI channel machines like the Digitakt ( [see this post] ), Electribe,... but also with... well anything MIDI.... who knows what will come out right?

The PolyMUX setting can be changed on your RK-002/MOD on this settings page:

https://www.retrokits.com/rk002/setti...

The base MIDI response channel on the RK-002 is where the PolyMUX effect will be applied, the extra PolyMUX channels indicate the extra channels to which the notes will be spread and MIDI data will be copied.

So Channel 1 + 3 PolyMUX = Receiving on channel 1 and sending out on 1,2,3,4.

The web settings page only allows up to 7 extra channels but actually you can fill up all MIDI channels. You're free to use hardcore sysex to address this anyhow or comment below if you have any objections to this restriction and want to see it increased on the webpage :-)

Note on applying settings to the RK-002 cable: Be sure to have a MIDI-Power interface which also has MIDI System Exclusive support."

The RK-004 'Medusa' - New 7-port MIDI Merger/Splitter and Clock Divider by Retrokits

Published on Oct 15, 2016 Retrokits

"The RK-004 is a 7-port MIDI merger/splitter and clock divider. Every port can act as an input to merge your midi signals -or- as an output to split your incoming MIDI data.

In output mode the RK-004 is able to divide an incoming clock signal: Synchronise your sequencers at different speeds.

...this demo obviously went into Sunday clock mode..."

Superbooth 2023: Retrokits - RK-8

video upload by sonicstate

"We spoke to Gerrit from Retrokits, makers of some of the finest and niftiest midi utilities and hardware. He gave us an update on their latest product, the RK8, a MIDI sequencer/recorder. Initially designed as a modern replacement of the MMT8, they have added a load of new features, including the much-requested multi-track length. You have eight tracks that can each hold 16 MIDI channels, and you can apply transformations to each channel individually. They have also added real-time MIDI recording, meaning that pitch bend and mod wheel changes can be recorded in addition to steps. The firmware has been updated to version 2.0, which now includes Bluetooth support, allowing the use of wireless devices.

Gerrit also demonstrated how the RK8 can be used as a master brain, as you can have up to 100 parts, each with different beat lengths, which can be changed seamlessly. You can mute and unmute parts, play with build-ups, and transpositions while playing parts. Gerrit showed us how it can be used in a performance and even connected it to an OP-Z, which received MIDI signals from the RK8. The RK8 can also send out DIN sync signals, allowing it to sync with older devices.

RK-8 Price: 359 Euros. RK-8 with wood panels price: 409 Euros"

Superbooth 2018: Super Fast Show Tour

Published on May 8, 2018 sonicstate

"As is traditional, we like to give you a flavour of the size and layout of the show, this time Gaz takes you round the event - and it's not the 10 hour lost in Superbooth that Nick gave us!

Once again, thanks to our team: Nick, Gaz, Edd & Andy, and of course all the exhibitors and the excellent team of Herr Schneider, Adam, Tim, Patrick, Lasse and all the rest of the people who made it possible.

See you next year for sure."


And a quick play outdoors: :)

Superbooth 2018: Retrokits Bits Play Outdoors with OP-1 & Volca

Published on May 8, 2018 sonicstate

"Gaz is on a mission to reduce his audio computer use - these handy problem-solvers from Retrokits enable a totally portable setup using a mini controller keyboard, OP-1 and Volca."

---

See the SUPERBOOTH18 label below for more coverage of this year's event.

Ambient jam: Volca Bass + Ventris + Keystep + nanoKONTROL2 (2018-10-14)

Published on Oct 15, 2018 Slenterende Beer

"I've bought the Source Audio Ventris, an effects pedal that features two reverb / delay engines that can be combined, either in parallel or serial mode. This gear experiment is a deep dive into the features of the Ventris, in combination with the Volca Bass. Headphones recommended!

The basics of this setup are pretty simple: I program some slow arpeggios on the Keystep, which is played by the Volca Bass. The Bass has a slow and intense LFO on the cut-off, which produces the volume swells. The output of the Bass is then sent to the Ventris, and that's where the interesting stuff starts.

The Ventris has two effect engines running in serial mode. The first effect is called "offspring" and that's the cascading, modulated delay at the start of the video. This sound is then fed into the "shimmer" effect, which I introduce by increasing the "control 1" and "time" knob. The "time" knob also increases the delay feedback of the 'offspring' effect.

Each reverb / delay engine on the Ventris has its own set of parameters, but only part of them can be controlled from the pedal's interface. It becomes more restricted when using both reverb engines at the same time, because two of the knobs are then dedicated to controlling the dry/wet mix of the two engines. Live control of the other parameters, and for both engines at the same time, can be done using MIDI CC messages. I've configured the nanoKONTROL so that the first 4 sliders and knobs control parameters of effect A, and the second 4 control parameters of effect B. For example, the fifth knob controls the amount of shimmer of effect B, which is a parameter I tweak quite a lot in this video.

One hardware problem I had to solve: the nanoKONTROL only has a USB MIDI connector, but the Ventris requires a 5-pin MIDI plug. I don't currently own a hardware USB MIDI host (I'm considering the Retrokits RK-005), so I used my MacBook to achieve the MIDI routing. The nanoKONTROL is connected to my laptop, and so is the iConnectivity mio, which is in turn connected to the Ventris. By default MacOS does not support MIDI routing from one device to another, so I used the open source "MIDIrouter" app to achieve this (see link below).

The reason I decided to try the Ventris is because I'd like to see if it can replace my GFI System Specular Reverb V2. I love the sound of my Specular, but it only really does one sound (beautiful lush ambient epicness) and misses features that I'd like (e.g. 100% wet, control over pre-delay and modulation, MIDI clock sync for delay timings). I'm happy to say I can create a sound with the Ventris that is just as lush as the Specular, but with a lot more control and whole lot more extra features due to the possibility to use two reverb engines. (You can even use the Ventris' stereo inputs to feed it two different instruments, give them each their own reverb engine, and then configure it so that it is 'summed' into stereo again!) I feel like there's a lot more to discover with this device, even more so since you can download patches other people have created using its Neuro app.

Korg Volca Bass
Source Audio Ventris
Korg nanoKONTROL2
Arturia Keystep
iConnectivity mio

MIDIrouter: https://github.com/icaroferre/MIDIRouter

Video recorded with iPhone 7. Audio recorded with UFX1204 in "standalone" mode, recording directly to USB HDD.

You can stream our music from Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play and other streaming services, or download our music from Bandcamp: https://slenterendebeer.bandcamp.com"

Added part naming and Tracktrigger mode to the RK008 💪

video upload by Retrokits