Dreadbox Nymphes Review - Affordable 6 Voice Analogue Poly Synth

video upload by Stephen McLeod

https://www.signalsounds.com/dreadbox-nymphes-polyphonic-desktop-analogue-synth

"I've owned or used a lot of Dreadbox synthesizers, from the early incarnations of the Erebus when I spotted it in a modular synth shop and it blew my mind. I blame both Dreadbox and Jason from Signal Sounds for bankrupting me since then with my slide into Eurorack.

Anyway, I wasn't convinced about the Nymphes when I first saw it advertised, as the menu control seemed a bit confusing and the synth lacking some features. However, when I saw the price was 'just' £449, I decided to take the plunge, and I am glad I did.

Here's my take on the Dreadbox Nymphes. What its features are, its strengths, whether or not that menu system actually is a problem or not... and my general experience using it so far. All of it is entwined with some wee bits and pieces of sounds direct from the synth itself. Don't take my slagging of Americans too seriously... it's what you all deserve for regularly abusing me for my accent. :*

00:00 - Intro
02:55 - Form Factor & Build
04:09 - Connectivity
04:50 - Features
07:03 - Musical Interlude
07:31 - The Sound
08:33 - Menu System
11:40 - Mono Output
12:14 - Musical Interlude
12:40 - Final Thoughts
14:30 - Musical Outro"

Intuitive Instruments Expressive MPE Controller Exquis Gets an Exciting Update

video uploads by Intuitive Instruments

This unique MPE MIDI controller just got a major update
video upload by Stephen McLeod

0:00 - Intro
2:26 - Build + Controls
3:26 - Connectivity
4:37 - Note Layout + Scales
7:43 - MPE + Polyphonic Aftertouch
9:00 - MPE Arpeggiator
9:52 - Standalone Mode
11:33 - Desktop App
13:48 - Final thoughts

YOU can play this instrument
video upload by barnabydixon

Press release follows:


Both firmware and software updates are free of charge.

The version 2 of the firmware and companion software introduces several new features and a com-plete graphic redesign, offering enhanced customization options for the keyboard.

Now featuring up to 32 scales and 8 notes layouts onboard

In addition to a wide selection of factory scales and layouts, users can design their own custom scales and note layouts using Exquis’ companion software. Each key can be assigned individual MIDI values and colors, with the configurations stored directly in the keyboard’s memory for standalone use as a MIDI MPE controller. These custom files can also be shared with the com-munity, fostering collaboration and creativity..

Customizable MIDI Messages and Sensitivity Curves

MIDI CC values for the four rotary, clickable encoders and action buttons are now fully editable via Exquis’ companion sof-tware and saved to the device’s memory for standalone operation. Additionally, users can fine-tune sensitivity curves for all expressive dimensions -velocity, X, Y, and Z axes- ensuring optimal control and responsiveness.

A Redesigned Graphical Interface

The Exquis companion software now features a completely redesigned graphical interface for quick and intuitive use. With its spontaneous workflow, users can compose simple songs in moments. Designed to transform Exquis into a standalone electronic instrument, the app combines an enhanced looper (11 tracks, 44 loops) with a simple sequencer (11 events) and is compatible with all AU, VST, and VST3 plugins, running seamlessly on macOS and Windows.

Adaptable to Any Configuration
One standout feature of the Exquis application is its ability to adapt to any note layout, saving it as a track parameter or even linking it to a plugin preset. This makes it possible to create hybrid instruments tailored to specific soundscapes, unlocking new creative possibilities.


250 Expressive Presets Optimized for Exquis

The update also includes 100 brand-new factory presets for the Vital and Decent Sampler free MPE plugins, complementing the refreshed 150 presets for the Surge XT free MPE plugin. All these presets are available directly within the Exquis app, ready to load in a single click, com-plete with optimized note layouts.

https://dualo.com/en/exquis/

still trying to love the OP-1 in 2022

video upload by Stephen McLeod

"Another wee late night jam with the OP-1. I've been attempting to make a lot more use of it lately, and try explore some of the areas that I haven't made much use of - or at least combine different features in different ways, because I am still undecided on whether I love it enough to justify the price tag or not. There's no doubt that it's great fun to use, but is it worth the big ticket value? Erh, I mean, probably not - but when will I get over that?! Maybe never. Probably. It's a curse."

A Casio on Steroids? // Round Robin Synthesizer from ‪@SimonTheMagpie‬

video upload by Stephen McLeod

See the intro video here.

"Taking a look at ‪@SimonTheMagpie‬ and ‪@NicStage‬'s brand new synthesizer creation - with a twist.

Find out more at http://magpiepedals.com
Find Simon's music at https://simonthemagpie.bandcamp.com/

Timestamps:
00:00 - Intro
02:30 - Design
03:50 - Controls + Interface
06:24 - Connectivity + Build
07:40 - A cool feature
08:37 - Sound
09:52 - Arpeggiator
11:22 - Looping modulation
12:09 - Final thoughts
14:13 - Outro track"