FLUX prototype demo (SOMA lab)

video upload by Vlad Kreimer

"FLUX brings forth the musicality and expression of classical instruments, such as violin or vocals, enriched by new timbres and the flexibility of postmodern instruments, harnessing the power of current technology.

FLUX is a high end professional synthesizer with expressive possibilities, an innovative interface design with top quality digital-to-analog converters and analog components.

FLUX features a unique continual touchless keyboard that offers seamless control over a number of sound parameters without quantisation.

In many ways, FLUX is inspired by the Theremin, which offers the unique opportunity of controlling sound by moving your hands in the air without touching any object, all of which lends the performance a special plasticity and beauty.

Unlike the Theremin which works by virtue of the capacitive coupling of hands and antennae, FLUX is based on magnetic principles. Two magnetic bows are pressed between your fingers, and the interface is a multipolar magnetic sensor, registering the bows’ positions and movements. The X coordinate of the artist’s right-hand bow controls the note’s pitch, while the Z coordinate controls volume. The left-hand bow’s X, Y and Z coordinates control the various synthesis parameters.

Since a magnet has two poles, FLUX not only detects the bows’ spatial coordinates, but also the bows’ angle. This means that flipping the right-hand bow on the Y-axis changes the octave, which allows a range of six continuous octaves without transposing the keyboard. With transposition you can get a range from sub-bass all the way to ultrasonic. The left-right tilting of the right-hand bow on the X-axis controls two independent modulation parameters.

The left-hand bow controls the timbres. The timbral sensor, placed in the left part, has six poles, and independently registers positive and negative magnetic fields. This lets you change which parameters you control by flipping the bow, allowing you to control up to twelve independent sound parameters. Together with the pitch, volume and two additional tilt parameters on the right-hand bow, you have access to a total of sixteen sonic controls that you can use during performance, without ever touching the surface of the instrument.

Summing up the concept of FLUX: the most direct and immediate way to play with a large number of synthesis parameters in a musical way, creating a dynamic timbre composition. Different synthesis algorithms (engines) will be created as complete musical instruments for direct timbral control. All engines will be available in a single firmware and any engine can be launched in a fraction of a second. Presets will allow the user to save and recall the entire state of the synth including engine and all tunings.

We developed FLUX with the aim to create a modern instrument for academic music, offering powerful sonic tools such as distortion, complex FM and physical modelling of non-existent, surrealistic musical instruments. We invite modern performers and composers to use FLUX in their work.

FLUX works in monophonic, duophonic and polyphonic modes. Staccato-enabling and quantisation modes are available. The quantization function has an adjustment parameter for vibrato. FLUX has a stable, even, and clearly marked note scale. This makes FLUX much easier to learn and to intone cleanly than on the Theremin.

FLUX’s synthesis is DSP-based. It features built-in spatial FX. The digital-to-analog converters and the analog circuit are based on our in-house designs using Hi-End principles.

FLUX is under development. We will inform the community about the progress."

via SOMA Lab

SUPERBOOTH 2024: Soma - Flux - Your Questions Answered

video upload by sonicstate

"At Superbooth 2024, Vlad from Soma showcased the innovative features of their upcoming product, *Flux*. Vlad discussed the use of neodymium magnets in Flux, highlighting the ability to experiment with different forms and forces of magnet to customize the keyboard response. You can even play Flux with a screwdriver!He also answered a question about the breakout box, which will offer MIDI output with full MPE support and 11 CV outputs 5 parameters in the left hand and 6 in the right for controlling external gear.

When asked about the possibility of playback in selectable scales, Vlad mentioned that currently, Flux offers chromatic quantization, but that the strength of the gear lies in its non-quantizing performance. Answering a question about accessing the parameters of the sound engines, Vlad explained that there are 37 different engines and up to 12 parameters for synthesis control, and each engine has unique variations. Vlad also hinted at the potential for future algorithm developments, showcasing the flexibility of Flux in accommodating additional instruments over time. For more information on Flux and its unique features, check out their website and stay tuned for updates.

Flux and Breakout Box are currently in development. Price TBC"

SOMA Flux - Gesprächskonzert at SUPERBOOTH24

video upload by Superbooth Berlin

"A presentation of the innovative synthesizer FLUX by SOMA labs.

Vlad Kreimer the founder of SOMA labs presents a unique synthesizer FLUX based on magnetic principles.
In many ways, FLUX is inspired by the Theremin and inherits its core feature - the unique opportunity of controlling sound by moving your hands in the air without touching any object.
FLUX is the musicality and expression of classical instruments, such as violin or vocals, enriched by new timbres and the flexibility of postmodern instruments, harnessing the power of current technology."

FLUX Breakout Box (SOMA Labs demo)

video upload by SOMA Laboratory



via SOMA Labs

The Breakout Box is a portable standalone module that operates in two modes:

With FLUX — enables using FLUX as a controller for external hardware via CV or MIDI/MPE.

As a MIDI-to-CV converter — compatible with any DAW or sequencer that supports MIDI CC messages.

In both modes, the Breakout Box is connected to a host device and powered via USB-C.

The Breakout Box is housed in a compact metal enclosure with dimensions 140×45×34 mm.

The front panel and internal construction are designed to allow mounting as a 6HP Eurorack module.

When installed in a Eurorack system, it does not require an internal power supply and is powered through the USB port.

When used with FLUX, the Breakout Box provides access to all key FLUX parameters as CV and MIDI outputs, including:

Pitch and velocity (monophonic and duophonic modes),

6 bipolar CV outputs from the timbral keyboard (interpreted either as independent sensors or as 3D XYZ data),

Tilt CV output.

When used as a MIDI-to-CV converter, it supports control via standard MIDI or MPE, and CC messages.

CV outputs can be mapped according to user-defined settings, which can be configured via a PC and stored in the Breakout Box’s non-volatile memory."

Soma Flux Giveaway

via Perfect Circuit

"Soma Flux: 3 Winners, 3 Chances to Win

That pull you’re feeling towards this email isn’t just from the magnetic interface of this Close Encounters-esque piece of alien technology.

We’re giving away three (3!) of these amazing pieces of gear: sign up now for your chance to win one and explore sound creation in a whole new dimension."

Enter to win here.

Dorit Chrysler about SOMA FLUX

video upload by SOMA Laboratory

FLUX: https://somasynths.com/flux/
Dorit: https://www.doritchrysler.com

Manipulating Melodies With IOLabs Flux - A Dark Christmas: Variations On The Jingle Bells Tune

video upload by Friendly Noise

"Flux is an incredible rhythm generating machine, but how good is Flux at making melodies? I have tried to answer this question in two videos. In this second part I’ll show how to manipulate melodies with Flux. Flux it not your traditional one note per step sequencer, but melodies are definitively programmable and more than just 'programmable'.

Everything you hear in the video is based on the notes of the first 4 bars of Jingle Bells.

Used in the video: Soma Pulsar 23, IOLabs Flux, 4ms Ensemble Oscillator, Spherical Sound Society Vortex Generator, Joranalogue Morph 4, and Strymon Nightsky.
Some EQ and compression were added in the DAW after recording.

Here is the first part: Making Melodies With IOLabs Flux - Is That Possible?"

Party Ready Patterns With Bass Lines - A Happy Gathering of Flux, Metropolix and Pulsar 23

video upload by Friendly Noise

"The fourth collaboration between IOLabs Flux, the best trigger sequencer, and the Soma Pulsar 23 , arguably the most amazing if not the best drum machine ever made. The combination of sound quality, easy of use, open design, interconnectivity and interactivity makes the Soma a fantastic piece of musical gear, and which is more important, a real instrument to play with. The amount of control and flexibility that Flux puts in your hands can lead you to totally unexpected sonic landscapes, like you can see and heat in that video.
Barry at IOLabs and Vlad at Soma Instruments are real geniuses of our time.

Patch details are included in the video."

The most awaited video for the Pulsar 23!!! Normal Drum Sounds With IOLabs Flux!!!

video upload by Friendly Noise

"The second collaboration between IOLabs Flux, the best trigger sequencer, and the Soma Pulsar 23 , arguably the most amazing if not the best drum machine ever made. The combination of sound quality, easy of use, open design, interconnectivity and interactivity makes the Soma a fantastic piece of musical gear, and which is more important, a real instrument to play with. The amount of control and flexibility that Flux puts in your hands can lead you to totally unexpected sonic landscapes, like you can see and heat in that video.
Barry at IOLabs and Vlad at Soma Instruments are real geniuses of our time.

Video sections:
00:06 Pattern 01
01:39 Pattern 02
05:29 Pattern 03
11:12 Pattern 04"

Peter Theremin tries SOMA FLUX

video upload by Vlad Kreimer

"Peter Theremin is the great-grandson of the famous Leon Theremin
https://theremin.space/en/

FLUX
https://somasynths.com/flux/"

Soma Labs Flux - Highly Expressive New Instrument - Sonic LAB Presentation

video upload by sonicstate

"Soma Laboratory's unconventional design is a major factor in why their instruments are so unique. We take a look at the latest instrument Flux - which takes a lot of inspiration from the no touch approach of the original Theremin. However with the use of small magnets in each had there are five control axis per hand and up to 16 controllable parameters.
The instrument is loosely based on the Terra synthesis concept and features 37 digital algorithms which are treated like individual instruments with their own timbral characteristics.

The right hand controls the pitch, dynamic, octave and tilt (for timbral control) and the left hand controls more of the timbral character with a considerable amount of tonal range possible.

We talked with Vlad Kreimer who gave us an over view of how Flux works.
The first batch of production units will be going out later this year and the price they are aiming for is in the region of 1000 Euros + tax
More information at
https://somasynths.com/flux/

|--------|

00: 00:00 start
00:00:28 Playing example
00:01:31 Overview
00:03:20 synth engine
00:07:30 Pitch and dynamics
00:12:54 polyphony
00:18:28 external control
00:19:45 bass
00:20:40 UI
00:24:52 the magnets
00:25:38 percussive mode
00:26:40 other sizes?
00:28:09 price"

17. Mai 2024 - Soma Flux Performance at SUPERBOOTH24

video upload by LESINDES

"Soma Laboratory DVINA
payed by Vlad Kremer"

See this post for additional details on Flux.

The Flux, a new instrument from SOMA Laboratory (Buchla & Friends 2025)

video upload by CatSynth TV

"We are treated to a demonstration of the Flux, a new multi-dimensional expressive instrument from SOMA Laboratory. 'Unlike the Theremin which works by virtue of the capacitive coupling of hands and antennae, FLUX is based on magnetic principles. Two magnetic bows are pressed between your fingers, and the interface is a multipolar magnetic sensor, registering the bows’ positions and movements. The X coordinate of the artist’s right-hand bow controls the note’s pitch, while the Z coordinate controls volume. The left-hand bow’s X, Y and Z coordinates control the various synthesis parameters.'

To found out more, please visit https://somasynths.com/flux/"

SOMA Laboratory // FLUX FLUTE DUETT IMPRO // Live @ SUPERBOOTH 24

video upload by LESINDES

"Vlad KREMER (FLUX) from SOMA LABORATORY and REGINA (flute) in a live DUETT improvisation @superboothberlin 24."

FLUX sonic and performance possibilities (1st demo by SOMA labs)

video upload by SOMA Laboratory

"All sound is FLUX without post processing and FX.
In this video, I used 13 from 37 possible synthesis algorithms.
In the lower left corner, you can find the glif of the current algorithm.

Algorithms
TIMELINE:
0:00 Pipe
9:36 Bell
22:10 3D 4
23:31 Tremolo 1 Tempo
27:37 Detuned Saws
32:28 ByteBeat 1 Tempo
41:02 Vox
47:10 3D 2
54:15 Sync Resonances
57:00 3D 3
58:06 Detune
1:01:57 Digital Chaos
1:06:23 Clavir"

SUPERBOOTH24: SOMA Laboratory FLUX

video upload by Sound On Sound magazine

"SOMA Laboratory's latest experimental offering is FLUX, a performance instrument that uses handheld magnets to offer Theremin-style control over pitch and volume while leaving a hand free for modulation."

一年后，玉刻有了新琴（我也）

video upload by 合成少数派 Synthesis Minority

"Meng Qi on timelessgarden Horizon / Yukes on Soma Flux"

Also see:

New Horizon Synth Analog Ecosystem for Sound and Gesture

SUPERBOOTH 2024: Timeless Garden - Horizon Experimental Synth

via Timeless Garden

"Horizon celebrates a world of ambiguous dualities~~ harmony/chaos, smooth/stepped, intuitive/practiced, manual/automatic. Built around an invertible heirarchy of pinged-filter cores, and a resonant garden of delays and filters. A rapid and responsive playing surface, smoothly blurring between textures or precisely sculpting a spectral landscape. Honed musicians and freeform experimentalists alike will find their own personal expressions within.

At centre, two Mountains of pinged filters, cross-coupled with smooth and stepped frequency modulation. These pings flow into a resonant filterbank and stereo delays, guided and recirculated by Tide sliders. The filterbank follows the path of 5 Bird sliders, collecting resonances from a playful just-intoned scale generator. Between these worlds flow Currents controlled by the touch surface, capable of wrangling chaos into pure tones or latching into sequences for otherwise busy hands. As the Tides ebb and flow, sequence & delay times are modulated in rhythmic/harmonic steps transforming relationships and shifting priorities.

Sitting proudly at the centre of a performance, or nestled into a larger setup with Eurorack CV i/o. Process external sounds, or use global feedback for an added layer of unpredictability."

Superbooth 24 // DAY TWO // PURE IMPRESSIONS with MUSIC // Insights

video upload by LESINDES

"Impressions and amtosphere, people and synths from Superbooth 24 of the first day of the convention."

00:00 Intro
02:29 BERGLUND Instruments NuEvi
03:38 SOMA Flux
04:28 ???
07:59 Credits

mylarmelodies' weird video about Superbooth 2024

video upload by mylarmelodies

Synth rat at :26.

"Superbooth 2024 was amazing. This is a collage of all the strange, profound, interesting or funny moments I filmed as they happened to me. Includes some famous faces, and even some music gear! If you didn't make it this year, I hope this makes you feel like you did! Support on Patreon: / mylarmelodies

Watch out - it also contains the odd swear word!

Featuring:
@sonicstate @HANGINGOUTWITHAUDIOPHILES @RedMeansRecording @BoBeats @DivKid @tombola2004 @ArturiaOfficial @AshunSoundMachines @MoogSynthesizers @BodySynths @signalsounds7867 @Elevator-Sound @KorgOfficial @Befacosynth @melbourneinstruments @FredsLab @somasynths @enjoyelectronics6070 @NovationTV @busycircuits and many more.

CHAPTERS
00:00 Travel with me
01:10 Korg PS-3300
01:47 Heading Outside
03:08 Befaco Oneroi
03:50 Red Means Jamie Lidell
04:19 SECRET MUSIC THING
05:05 Melbourne Delia Poly
05:48 PolyBrute 12
06:16 Vlad Demos Soma Flux
07:43 Novation PolyBasstation 2
08:37 SoundForce, Mad Custom Mixer
09:33 Dinner & Drinks
10:17 Day 2 Begins
10:44 DINSYNC Jam
11:17 ALM, Freds Lab, Tubbutec, LPZW
13:39 Currywurst Moment
14:15 Moog Spectravox
14:50 MSL Drop = fun!!
16:00 Plinky Bib 1U Stereo FX!
16:54 Nick Batt's New Sticker, Beer with Steve
17:25 Lambda PolyPulse & Silver Troberg
18:00 Cuckoo Looking Beautiful
18:37 Street Beerz with Jeremy
19:07 Day 3: PWM Mantis
19:49 Gyros with Jason & Tom & Matths
20:04 Body Synths Metal Fetishist & Norand Mono 2
20:56 Youtube Meetup, Microrack, Wiggler
22:02 Korg Berlin Acoustic Phase8
23:29 Schlappi & the RetroKits Raffle
24:39 Enjoy Electronics Defeel
25:29 A final wander, a sound coffin
27:18 Eowaves Quadrantid Acoustic Vibes
28:06 Buchla in the woods vibes
29:15 UDO Super8 UberBliss Drones
30:06 Jason's Error Gift & Marco's Kiss
31:42 Finish our beers and go
32:27 It's been a long day
32:49 Sunday Morning in Berlin.
33:08 The afterparty
34:25 Let's go home."

Nireus (FLUX+Viola+Buchla)

video upload by SOMA Laboratory

FLUX — Anton Riehl
Viola — Clara Takarabe