"For the first time in over 40 years, a legendary analog synth sound returns.
The OB-X8 combines the three different voice architectures of the classic OB-X, OB-Xa, and OB-8 synths into a single incredible instrument. The individual filter types and other unique characteristics of each model have been faithfully reproduced, along with an uncompromising 100% analog signal path, giving you the most authentic and satisfying OB experience possible.
Oberheim is BACK!"
Oberheim OB-X8 INHALT Sound Design Demo No Talking
"My history with Oberheim runs deep. Probably the most important synthesizer for me was the Oberheim OB-8. I connected deeply with its melancholic and midnight music sounding tone which matched very well what I was doing with INHALT at the time. But never to be beguiled by softer emotions, the flick of the unison switch instantly took the OB-8 into an aggressive "body" music. It was the perfect writing tool due to the even tone across all octaves and the fact that its intrinsic musicality was unavoidable. Around the time I got the OB-8 I also got a vintage 2 Voice (thanks for restoring that one Chok) and both were heavily used on many records that I made. Those were my MVP's for many years.
When I received the call from my colleagues at Sequential that not only was a new Oberheim in the works, but that it was to be THE Oberheim, I couldn't wait for the beta testing and sound design to start. And when the prepro unit arrived, I knew that the newly reborn and official Oberheim company, in tandem with the team at Sequential, created something incredible. Something so comprehensive, deep, detailed, featured and yet immediate and simple, with no possibility of making a bad sound. Every sound I made sounded exactly as it should, and they ALL embodied that unmistakable Oberheim sound. That magic that is often imitated but never accomplished. Until now.
I'm not going to get into specs, those have been already covered everywhere, but I will say this: as someone that has used all of the "big" Oberheims, and that has made many records in commercial studios with the OB-8 and a vintage 2 Voice, I can definitively say that this Oberheim does all of those sounds and more. Its charisma changes from filter to filter and it seamlessly traverses from X, Xa to 8 with the Page 2 voice offset and vintage knob, but it ALWAYS sounds like the genuine Oberheim that it is. This incredible team, that I've had the pleasure of working with, has created something that might possibly be the ultimate polyphonic analog synthesizer. And I can't wait to use it on the many upcoming projects at Infinite Power Studios.
This is a recording I made of many of the patches I created for Oberheim and the shipping factory library that will come with the synth.
Please note, the OB-X8 in the video is a prototype unit and I recorded this with a beta firmware. As such, while the synth was largely done there were some changes both to the panel and to the OS that are in the final shipping version (obviously). The OB-X8 was recorded straight into Pro Tools HD and no post processing or fx were added. What you're hearing is the raw synth."
The Sound of the Oberheim OB-X8 - Julian "J3PO" Pollack [custom knobs on this one]
"Oberheim has released a new synthesizer--the first in many decades--the OB-X8. It is a faithful recreation of all three of the classic OB-series synthesizers in one: the OB-X, the OB-Xa, and OB-8. It is an incredible synth.
In this video, you will hear a bunch of presets I created for the OB-X8. Some of my sounds will be included factory with the OB-X8 while most of these presets will appear in a presets pack I will release soon (check www.j3po.net for the release of my official sound bank). This particular unit is an early prototype with non-production knobs. The final production units will look slightly different.
It is important to note that the OB-X8, like the original OB's from back in the day, does NOT contain any onboard effects. In this video, I used some external reverbs and delays to give certain presets the ambience and resonance they deserve. Light compression and limiting was applied for the purpose of uploading to YouTube and balancing the sounds."
"I'm always reluctant to post something in prototype form. When I had this unit it was sonically pretty close. Obvious at a glance are the knobs and 3D printed bender box levers. The synth itself sounds great and such a dream to play with a nice modern key bed."
And the press release:
Oberheim Returns to Operations and Releases Its First New Synth in 35 Years
San Francisco, CA – May 9, 2022 – In a momentous industry development, Oberheim Electronics, one of the most venerated names in synthesizer design, has announced its return to operation to meet the rising global demand for its instruments.
Today, the company is launching its first new product, the OB-X8: an eight-voice polyphonic analog synth that combines all of the key features of the legendary OB-X, OB-Xa, and OB-8 products from the 1980s – including all the original presets that gave them their signature sounds.
“I wanted to come back strong with a new design that brings together the sounds of the greatest instruments from across the OB range, together with the distinctive sound and styling of those synths,” said Tom Oberheim. “But we took it even further. You can now combine the various OB voice architectures in ways that produce unique and interesting new sounds and capabilities.”
Originally founded by Tom Oberheim in 1969, Oberheim Electronics created ground-breaking products that fueled the electronic music revolution throughout the 1970’s and early 1980’s. After ceasing operations in 1985, these instruments attained near-mythical status, with highly prized vintage models selling for many times their original price on the secondhand market.
Since that time, Tom Oberheim had created a handful of limited-production instruments and co-designs with various partners under other names. But in a recent significant development, he regained control of the Oberheim trademarks and IP, and now, in partnership with Focusrite PLC, has decided to once again introduce new products under the Oberheim brand name for first time in more than 35 years.
“I’ve always had a very optimistic outlook on our industry and the future in general. I felt that one day, when the time was right, Oberheim would return. A big part of this was the fact that so many musicians have contacted me over the years to ask how to get hold of an original Oberheim. So when I finally reacquired the Oberheim name, it was clear that the time was finally here,” said Oberheim.
The catalog of artists associated with the original products is long, and includes innovators like Prince, Van Halen, and Herbie Hancock. For many, it was much more than just an instrument. A handful of A-list artists such as Trent Reznor, creative force behind Nine Inch Nails, and Golden Globe, Academy Award, and Primetime Emmy-winning composer got pre-release previews. “When I was shown the new OB-X8, I was immediately impressed with the forensic level of detail that went into its design and the respect for its lineage,” remarked Trent. I will be making room in my studio for one and I’m excited more people will be able to experience this classic instrument.”
Creating a new company out of thin air was no small feat. “I’m excited to work with my old friend and audio industry innovator Marcus Ryle, along with some other members of the original Oberheim team again,” said Tom. “And thanks to an exclusive partnership with Focusrite group company Sequential LLC, we have the ability to design, manufacture, distribute, and support new instruments on a global scale.”
For Marcus Ryle, one of the inventors behind the ADAT, the QuadraSynth, and Line 6 guitar amps and effects, this represents closure of sorts: “Synths were my first love and the reason I entered this industry. Tom hired me when I was 19, and I feel lucky to have been a part of the Oberheim design team during its glory days. Now, a whole new chapter in the story of analog synthesizer-based music is about to get written.”
Dave Smith, founder of Sequential and himself a legendary figure in synth history, also collaborated with Marcus (an Oberheim team member from the 1980s) and Tom to create the new product. “We’ve already developed other interesting design ideas with Tom for follow-up products that will allow us to take Oberheim into the future as a synth brand,” commented Smith. “It’s a very exciting time to be a musician.”
The OB-X8 eight-voice analog synthesizer will be available at the end of June with a US MAP of $4,995.
About Oberheim
Oberheim is the 21st century return of the legendary company that helped fuel the electronic music revolution. Now,
just as then, Oberheim is guided by the vision of engineer and inventor, Tom Oberheim. Tom’s genius for innovation introduced the world to the first commercially available poly synth and other groundbreaking electronic instruments that literally changed the sound of music. Today, Oberheim reawakens this legacy by bringing the famed Oberheim sound to a new generation of instruments and artists. The company’s passion remains unchanged by time or technology — to once again provide the world with the finest-sounding analog synthesizers ever made. Oberheim brings its products to market with the help of the Focusrite organization and renowned synth maker, Sequential."
OBERHEIM OB-X8 SPECIFICATIONS
• 8-voice, pure-analog polyphony with saw, square/pulse, triangle, and noise • Two discrete SEM/OB-X-lineage VCOs per voice deliver classic punchy Oberheim tone • Discrete SEM-lineage VCFs deliver authentic OB-X-style tone and presence • Genuine Curtis filters add bold OB-Xa/OB-8 character • Meticulously modeled envelope responses match each OB model: OB-X, OB-Xa, and OB-8 • The 61-key FATAR velocity- and touch-sensitive keyboard allows unparalleled expression and responsiveness • Bi-timbral capability allows two presets simultaneously for splits and doubles • 400-plus factory programs, including the full set of factory sounds for the OB-X, OB-SX, OB-Xa, and OB-8 • Integral, fanless, heatsink-free power supply • Real walnut end cheeks • High-resolution OLED display enables patch management and easy access to advanced features • Classic Oberheim Pitch and Mod levers allow expressive note bending, vibrato, and access to arpeggiator functions
ENHANCEMENTS • Additional SEM filter modes add high-pass, band-pass, and notch functions to the classic OB-X filter • Vintage knob allows variable amounts of voice-to-voice variability to emulate the behavior of vintage instruments • Velocity sensitivity adds expressiveness to volume and filter • Channel Aftertouch adds real-time performance-based modulation • Enhanced unison allows variable voice stacking from 1-8 voices • Variable triangle wave cross-modulation • Over 600 user-programmable preset locations • Programmable per-program pan allows wider stereo presence • Variable oscillator and noise levels
INS & OUTS • Stereo and Mono outputs • Volume, Sustain, and Filter inputs • Arpeggiator clock input • MIDI In, Out, Thru • USB • Dimensions: • Weight: 32.5 lbs • Dimensions: 40.5” L x 16.67” W x 5.87” H
"500GB harddrive. Dressed in an all-new Arctic White Chassis color scheme, the Timbaland Special Edition MiKo will stand out in any crowd.
The Timbaland Special Edition MiKo features E-MU™'s new Proteus™ X2 Streaming Sound Module V2.5 with over 7,000 instruments, including the new Ensoniq™ Urban Legends™ Sound Library that contains the sounds from Ensoniq's ASR™/EPS™/MR™/ASR-X™/ZR™ instruments.
❐ Buy Urban Suite : http://www.uvi.net/urban-suite.html
❐ UVI Official Website : http://www.uvi.net
"UVI, producers of one of the best selling urban sample libraries ever, are back with the most complete suite of instruments and sounds for beat-driven street music production on the planet. Urban Suite delivers 5 new instruments and a massive sample library tailored for contemporary music producers, perfect for hip hop, R&B, trap, glitch, beat, experimental and more. Both a comprehensive retrospective of the classics and a collection of new and innovative tools, Urban Suite embodies the creative spirit and boundary-pushing heritage of beat music production.
In an effort to give you the absolute best sound quality possible, every sample used in Urban Suite (both in-instrument samples and all of the construction kits) were professionally mastered by Chris Gehringer at Sterling Sound in NYC. A modern legend of urban music, Chris has worked with Rihanna, JayZ, 50 Cent, Wu-Tang Clan, Snoop Dog, Nas, Naughty by Nature and Robin Thicke to name a few. His amazing ears and genre expertise have helped to make every aspect of Urban Suite sound simply fantastic out of the box.
BEATSHAPER
The Ultimate Urban Drum Machine
Deep sound design capabilities and a comprehensive sample library allow you to craft your own drum kits to perfection with kicks, snares, claps and hi-hats. Build your kits from scratch or use one of the 150 included. BeatShaper is a must-have for the discerning beatsmith.
PRIME8
A Beat Machine Legend, Reborn
Likely the most iconic and sought after drum machine in the world, the big daddy of the X0X series is also one of the most overdone when it comes to sample libraries. Prime8 breathes new life into a well-known classic with a thick and primal force that can carry even the heaviest tracks. Includes 50+ preset kits.
URBAN X
Unique Tweakable Sample Synth
A sample-synth for the street, Urban X takes 3 of our fully-featured synth voices including discrete amp, multimode filter, pitch, stereo and multi-effect units and loads them with a massive set of sounds ideal for urban music. Urban X is a flexible and totally-customizable instrument designed to bring new sounds and creativity to your workflow. Includes 1,000+ sounds and 100+ presets.
There's no way to accurately reproduce the experience of scratching without a turntable but we've come pretty close with Scratch Machine. Grab a keyboard or pad controller, load up one of the classic sounds like 'Fresh' or even a Speak'n'Spell and let loose! All sounds were recorded directly from decks masterfully controlled by our resident turntablist and scratch artist DJ Quartz—over 10,000 samples in all—single-shots, round robins and loops, giving you a huge variety of articulations and expressive options. Interactive pitch control, playback speed, 6 built-in effects, a 3-band EQ and a lp/hp filter combine to make a fun and powerful vinyl-inspired instrument with a classic vibe and authentic sound. Includes 10,000+ samples and 100+ presets.
BEATCONTROL
Multitrack Looping Powerhouse
Whether you're looking for that first bolt of inspiration or just trying to find a tight groove, BeatControl's here to help. A multitrack looper with a huge sound library of genre-correct material including drums, bass, and phrases lets you mix, tweak and play realtime in our standalone player or your favorite DAW. Create grooves, builds, layers or even full songs in minutes. Includes 150+ presets.
URBAN SUITE SAMPLE LIBRARY
2 Decades of Mastered Urban Cuts
From old school to new school and beyond the Urban Suite sample library covers nearly 2 decades or tastefully chopped urban sounds. One shots, loops, construction kits, meticulously edited, mastered by Chris Gehringer, and organized for speed. A huge resource of amazing sounds, sure to provide years of use for any urban music producer. Includes 2000+ samples & loops and 150+ construction kits."
"Syntronik™ - the legendary synth powerhouse for Mac/PC is now shipping
Cutting-edge virtual instrument delivers iconic synthesizers and string machines with unique synthesis engine and stunning sound quality, available as a collection or separate instruments
July 20, 2017 - IK Multimedia is proud to announce that Syntronik™, the legendary synth powerhouse for Mac® and PC, is now shipping worldwide.
Syntronik offers the definitive and best-sounding collection of vintage synthesizers in a virtual instrument to date. It provides unsurpassed quality and flexibility thanks to an entirely new combination of the most advanced sampling techniques with a unique hybrid sample and modeling synthesis engine, a large assortment of high-quality modeled effects and innovative instrument features.
Syntronik - a dream collection of synths
Syntronik includes a collection of 17 amazing instruments with over 2,000 soundscovering a wide selection from 38 of the most iconic to ultra-rare vintage synthesizers of all time:
"When you sit down with a synth at 1 PM and don't finish until deep into the night... it means you've become a hostage. You've been completely consumed by its world. I'm glad I managed to pull you into my world too. This video was recorded in one continuous shot... no edits. It’s just another proof that when the sound is right, it speaks for itself." – MR X
⚙️ What's inside DYSTOPIA Vol.4:
• 45 experimental, out-of-the-box presets
• Full compatibility: Arturia MiniFreak (Hardware) & MiniFreak V (Software - Update 4.0)
• Focus on dynamics, depth, and a dark sonic character
"This video showcases a slice of my favorite ' Arrakis Vol.1 ' sounds for Access Virus TI, focusing on the more surreal, textural, and slightly aggressive side.
A strong DUNE vibe because I’m a fan of the book and films.
"In 1991, Roland's JD-800 brought the synthesizer world back to its roots with a
massive control-laden panel and an aggressively electronic sound palette. Built
directly from the architecture of the original hardware, the JD-800 Model
Expansion brings the gleaming tone and monster sound-shaping potential of this
vintage digital icon to ZENOLOGY Software Synthesizer and JUPITER-X & JUPITER-Xm
ZEN-Core Synthesizers.
• Authentic sound with advanced modeling and
original JD-800 waveforms • Includes 64 presets from the JD-800, plus 64
all-new presets • Detailed recreation of the JD-800’s two-stage
multi-effects section • Over 90 onboard effects processors including JUNO
and CE-1 choruses, SDD-320 Dimension D, SBF-325 flanger, and more • Clear,
intuitive interface for free-flowing production • Expanded polyphony
versus the original hardware • Swap Model Expansions and load sounds
instantly"
Iconic 1990s Digital Synth Now Available for the ZENOLOGY Software Synthesizer
and Select ZEN-Core Hardware Instruments
Los Angeles, CA, March 2,
2021 — Roland announces the JD-800 Model Expansion, the latest addition to the
ZEN-Core Model Expansion lineup available through Roland Cloud. Based on
Roland’s influential JD-800 hardware synthesizer released in 1991, the JD-800
Model Expansion celebrates the 30th anniversary of this vintage digital icon by
bringing it to modern players through the ZENOLOGY Software Synthesizer and
select Roland hardware instruments with the ZEN-Core Synthesis System.
In
an era dominated by preset-focused digital synths with limited hands-on
controls, the JD-800 brought the synthesizer world back to its roots with a
massive control-laden panel and an aggressively electronic sound palette. With
its retro workflow, evocative sounds, and powerful effects, the instrument
became a favorite for top electronic music producers through the ’90s and
beyond. Combining the original JD-800 waveforms with advanced modeling
techniques, the JD-800 Model Expansion captures the sonic behavior of its
vintage counterpart with 100-percent authenticity, coupled with deep
sound-shaping potential through a full recreation of the JD-800’s vast control
architecture.
The JD-800 Model Expansion is currently supported with
Roland’s ZENOLOGY and ZENOLOGY Pro software instruments and JUPITER-X and
JUPITER-Xm hardware instruments.
About ZEN-Core Model Expansions
Model
Expansions transform the ZENOLOGY Software Synthesizer and compatible Roland
ZEN-Core hardware into entirely different instruments with their own sonic
personalities, features, and preset tones. From rare and sought-after classics
to the designs of tomorrow, Model Expansions give musicians and producers
unprecedented access to the historic and ever-evolving world of Roland
synthesizers. The JD-800 is the latest member of a growing Model Expansion
family that also includes the JUPITER-8, JUNO-106, JX-8P, and SH-101.
Model
Expansions for ZENOLOGY are included with the Pro and Ultimate membership levels
of Roland Cloud. All paid levels—including Core—start with a free 30-day trial
of Ultimate, allowing users to try out software-based Model Expansions and other
Ultimate features. In addition, any Roland Account holder can purchase Lifetime
Keys for individual Model Expansion titles, providing unlimited access for as
long as their account is active.
Update: below is a video on how to install expansions on the Jupiter-X and Jupiter-Xm from Roland Support.
Roland Jupiter-X - How to install Wave Expansions and Zen-Core Soundpacks
video by Roland Product Support
"In this video we demonstrate how to install wave Expansions and Zen-Core Soundpacks on the Jupiter-X."
"LFO Store’s professional sound designers, Nick Klimenko and OttO K. Schwarz, have joined forces to create a massive soundset for one of the finest digital synthesizers of the last decades, the Roland V Synth. Using more than ten years of experience working with this device, the gentlemen present you the ultimate pack for creating a soundtrack. The
'Cinematicа' soundbank - a set of universal sounds that are suitable for writing ambient, cinematic music, classical electronics, as well as rhythmic dance music.
It is worth noting that each patch is carefully prepared with modulation wheel and D-Beam assigned! Some of the presets may be modulated by velocity, aftertouch and X/Y Pad as well. You will find here beautiful strings and bright ethnic instruments, cosmic leads and exciting soundscapes, bold basses and dance sequences, and even a chorale and ambient piano!
These 100 exclusive presets were created by LFO Store team, known for their official cooperation with Access Music (Virus Ti), Modal Electronics (Argon, Cobalt), Native Instruments (Kontakt), and other leaders of the music industry. We wish you a pleasant journey through the sound universe and inspiration in creating your own musical compositions!"
"PC361 Overview The Ultimate Performance Controller Keyboard
With a sleek new look on the outside, and an arsenal of Kurzweil's latest cutting edge chip technology under its hood, the 61-note PC361 delivers 128 voices of incredible sound quality along with a host of powerful, easy to use features. The PC361 is Kurzweil's ultimate performance controller keyboard, with an enormous collection of stunning sounds combined with comprehensive real-time controller functions.
In addition to our renowned Triple Strike Grand Piano, the PC361 features hundreds of new sounds; basses, drums, guitars, and synths suited for every style and taste, along with a collection of flawless vintage keyboard emulations, KB3 Mode and over 250 orchestral and string section programs.
The PC361's new Dynamic V.A.S.T. architecture is a huge step forward in synthesis, the fruit of several major strides we've made in improving processing power, flexibility and user-friendliness. Good news for synth enthusiasts - we've seamlessly integrated our legendary VA-1 Virtual Analog Synthesizer into the new system!
For good measure we include an unlimited-track sequencer with 960 PPQ resolution and more effects processing power than our acclaimed KSP8 processor, making the PC361 a full blown music production workstation. Add in USB, flash xD card port, a newly designed keyboard action, and a new intuitive user interface, and you've got the next generation of Kurzweil instruments.
It's a performance controller. It's a synthesizer. It's a workstation. What's Inside...
One thing which clearly sets Kurzweil apart from the competition is the fact that we design our own chips (called ASICs) for all Kurzweil products. Simply put, our chips are customized for optimum audio performance. What does this mean for the end user? It means that all of the processing power in a Kurzweil chip is devoted exclusively to sound. It means no noticeable latency - the performance is always lightning fast. And most importantly, it translates into that rich, full, glitch-free sound for which Kurzweil has become famous. Yes developing our own chips is more expensive and more time consuming. We think it's well worth it. Once you've heard the PC361, we think you'll agree. The Kurzweil Sound...
The PC361 offers an enormous sound set of over 850 programs, raising the bar once again for both audio quality and variety. With the best samples in the industry, and a powerful, responsive synth engine breathing life into them, you'll feel like you're playing an actual instrument, not just playing samples. Of course there's the famous Kurzweil Triple Strike Piano, with dozens of variations to accommodate every kind of player. All of the basic sounds - basses, guitars, drums, horns and synths - have been painstakingly programmed to reflect the needs of today's professional players, representing a broad selection of styles and flavors from the '60s, '70s, '80s, '90s and today.
Also included is our Classic Keys ROM, which puts an impossibly large vintage keyboard rig at your fingertips. These are vintage emulations which actually sound like vintage instruments and classic recordings. The recognizable sounds of those classic electromechanical instruments, with all of their characteristic imperfections, have been faithfully re-created, along with pedals, amps and speakers. Lush Mellotrons, growling electric pianos, and punchy Clavinets are all there at the touch of a button, programmed to sound just like those classic albums.
For more vintage firepower, the PC361 is equipped with the most advanced version of Kurzweil's widely lauded KB3 Mode tonewheel organ simulator, which screams, sputters and sizzles just like the original. In addition to newly developed Leslie effects, and a new bank of B3 programs, we've also included sounds from the classic Vox and Farfisa combo organs. The PC361's 9 sliders provide real-time drawbar control.
The PC361 offers a full range of world class orchestral sounds, including our new String Section ROM bank, making it ideal for film-scoring and soundtrack projects. Every type of articulation, every nuance has been captured, with samples of full and divisi sections of violins, violas, cellos, and double bass. The details, the warm swells, animated pizzicatos and the sound of scraping rosin all add to the breathtaking effect of these string sections. You can plug and play with sounds worthy of a finished production - instant gratification with uncompromising sound quality. Dynamic V.A.S.T...
Under the hood of the PC361 is simply the most powerful synthesis engine ever created by Kurzweil. Dynamic V.A.S.T. picks up where the K series left off. Having up to 32 layers per program means that emulations of real instruments can be extremely detailed and accurate, while the synthesized sounds can be extraordinarily large and complex.
Expanding upon our V.A.S.T. architecture, the PC361's new architecture delivers more power and flexibility combined with unprecedented ease of use. Users can now create and store their own DSP algorithms, with nearly limitless possibilities for routing.
In another huge development, we've resurrected the VA-1 Virtual Analog Synthesizer, having built it's synthesis engine right into the new system. Hear the VA-1's power-shaped, anti-aliasing oscillators (including supersaw, triplesaw, and hard sync oscillators) combined with a newer, larger set of V.A.S.T. filters (like the classic-style 4pole low pass w/ resonance) and non-linear processors and you'll understand why the internet is buzzing about this feature. Cascade Mode...
Every layer in a program can be routed through the DSP of any other layer, in series or blended together, with up to 32 layers. It's the same concept as Triple Mode on our K26 series, without the 3 layer limit. You can run your sound through literally dozens of filters (which can all move independently in real-time) in addition to Kurzweil's signature DSP processors like Shaper, Wrap and Distortion, allowing for some truly dazzling results. This is one more feature which makes the PC361's synth engine so powerful and so different than anything else on the market. User Interface...
While the PC361's user interface may look familiar to veteran Kurzweil users, major improvements have been made, allowing for a much more user friendly experience. The PC361's backlit 240 x 64 display conveys all the information you'll need, when you need it, in an elegant, easy to navigate environment.
Programs are categorized and can be selected by scrolling or by using bank and program select buttons. Further, user favorites can be organized into convenient "Quick Access" banks for easy one touch recall.
In addition to fast navigation, each preset sound is accompanied by an "Info" screen which can be accessed at the touch of a button. As every sound can have its own customized set of real-time, physical controllers (sliders, modwheel, switches, CC Pedals, mono pressure, etc.) , the Info button makes viewing the current assignments effortless.
Complimenting the PC361's killer soundset is the the Easy Audition feature, where every one of the PC361's presets is linked to a bank of "riffs", recorded sequences which demonstrate each sound in an appropriate context. Just hit the "play" button on the front panel and get a quick musical preview of the current selection. Program selection and navigation, fast and easy.
Helping to tap the system's full potential, the PC3 also sports a feature-laden software-based Desktop Editor with comprehensive, easy to use features. (free download- both Mac & PC platforms available) Effects...
With up to 16 insert effects, two available auxiliary sends, PLUS a global Master FX section, the PC361 offers more than twice the processing power of our acclaimed KDFX engine. Effects can be chained together in series, or distributed among the PC361's 16 multitimbral channels. And these are simply the best effects in the business - burning distortions, transparent compressors, warm phaser and chorus effects, perfect reverbs - everything from flawless vintage emulations to concert halls which decay into complete silence. All parameters are assignable to any of the PC361's real time controllers - sliders, pedals, wheels, etc. Sequencer...
The PC361 features a newly designed sequencer, with unlimited tracks and 960 PPQ resolution. Combining a set of powerful song editing functions like event editing, swing, and controller scaling with a new friendlier interface, the PC361 truly excels as a song writing/arranging workstation, ideal for music production on the fly. Chasing controls, input quantizing and a global "set song length" function are just a couple of the features we've incorporated. Arpeggiators & Riffs...
The PC361 sports sixteen (yes, 16!) independent, fully programmable arpeggiators featuring 48-step programmable, pattern generators with both pitch and velocity controls - per zone (allowing for up to 16 patterns to playback simultaneously). These are accompanied by a thorough collection of modes, scales and pre-programmed patterns to get your juices flowing.
If that wasn't enough, the PC3 offers sixteen unique "Riff" generators, which permit the triggering of MIDI sequenced phrases, beats, or even complete multi-track arrangments from notes on the keyboard and/or any on-board physical controller.
Suggested Retail Price: $2395 Estimated Release Date: March 2009 (N. America)
All specifications subject to change without notice."
via Wolfgang Palm
"PPG MiniMapper is an easy to use performance synthesizer with a wide range of sounds for iOS devices including iPhone and iPod Touch*.
PPG MiniMapper features the same audio engine that powers the highly popular PPG WaveMapper synth, but with limited editing, aimed as the ideal partner to the PPG WaveMapper. Sounds created in the WaveMapper can be imported into the PPG MiniMapper for the ultimate in handheld performance.
"Product Highlights
PPG MiniMapper comes with 10 pages:
Sound Map – Manual Mode
Sound Map – Accelerator Mode
Sound Map – Magic Mode
Arptor – Start/Stop/Rec, Range, Up/Down/Random
Audio Recorder / Keyboard Editor
Modifiers Page – two X/Y controller with selectable routing
System Setup – Number of Voices, Sample Rate, other constants
MIDI Setup – In / Out and controller Easy data exchange between PPG MiniMapper and PPG WaveMapper
Preset Browser -
Bank Manager – copy presets between banks
Each Page has its own Help text"
"PPG MiniMapper is the third next-generation iOS based synth from Wolfgang Palm, who has released the PPG WaveGenerator and PPG WaveMapper to critical acclaim from both press and public.
PPG MiniMapper offers iPhone and iPod Touch users a new way to explore and perform in the studio, on stage or simply on the go. PPG MiniMapper allows the user the opportunity to use limitless sounds from this unique and powerful new technology.
About WaveMapping
Wavemapping uses visual cues to enable sound design. This may not sound too revolutionary, however it is a completely different way of programming sounds: you do not start with a lot of detailed setting, but with a combined set of parameters which you can select with the touch and swipe of a finger. And the combination of those parameters belonging to a Module make sense of course, it gives the user (being experienced or not) a very fast way for creating unique sounds."
"PPG MiniMapper is a powerful new synth for professional iOS musicians and is the ideal partner app for those who already own either PPG WaveGenerator or PPG WaveMapper.
Release date estimated April 20th 2013
Price: $3.99 USD
* Compatibility And Hardware Requirements
iPhone 4, 4S or iPod Touch 4 minimum, iPad users can run it as an iPhone App in reduced screen resolution."
Published on Oct 16, 2018 Rob Papen
Update: New Video Published on Jun 20, 2019
"This inspirational bundle holds 20 RP products if you include the amazing Prisma! which you can request after registering your bundle.
Go2: The power of limitations.
RAW-Kick: Edgy Kicks for comtemporary music.
MasterMagic: Adds a touch of magic for your Mix or Master.
SubBoomBass 2: Ultimate bass synthesizer.
Predator 2: The Synth that hunts your tracks!
BLUE-II: Cross-fusion synthesis at its finest.
RG: Electric and acoustic guitar grooves.
RP-Verb 2: Most intriguing in RP-VERB 2 – alongside the to a great sound – is the new ‘Reverser’ section!
RP-EQ: Silky smooth sounding channel and mastering EQ.
Blade: The cutting edge of today's synthesizers!
Punch: Speaker busting and body rattling drum machine.
Punch-BD: Based around the BD module of the multi award winning Punch virtual drum synth,
RP-Delay: Delay insanity. Reverser, 6 lines, 8 filters, 4 LFOs and more.
RP-Distort: Wicked FX unit that will distort or alter your tracks.
RP-Amod: Spice up your vocal track, liven an instrument and even beef up your drums.
RAW: Cutting edge EDM synthesizer with the focus on 'distorted sounds'
SubBoomBass: Ultra-deep groove bass synth with built-in step sequencer.
Predator: Phat analogue style synth with killer presets and first class features.
PredatorFX: Filter, modulation, vocoder and effects plug-in.
Prisma: Get creative using Rob Papen's take on instrument layering."
Update: and the press release:
"ECHT, THE NETHERLANDS: virtual instrument and effect plug-in developer Rob Papen Inspiration Soundware is proud to announce availability of eXplorer 5 — furthering the creative scope of its inspirational plug-in bundle by adding Go2, MasterMagic, and RAW-Kick to the all-encompassing musical mix — as of October 16…
Now numbering no fewer than 20 highly-versatile virtual instruments and extraordinary effects, eXplorer 5 pushes Rob Papen’s plug-in bundle beyond belief by including three new additions that more than live up to its Inspiration Soundware slogan.
MasterMagic is an aptly-named effect plug-in with which to improve mixes or final masters alike. Anyone placing MasterMagic at the very end of their virtual master effects chain can easily experience how much it can help improve their tracks. The MONO/STEREO SPLIT FILTER section will make the low end much tighter while the AIR function — even applied at a liberal level — is sheer magic. Make no mistake: there’s no mystery about this magical musical tool!
The name maybe gives the game away, as RAW-Kick represents Rob Papen’s cutting-edge kick drum-creation tool! The perfect weapon of choice for those hard-sounding electronic dance music styles — such as Hardcore, Hardstyle (mixing influences from Techno and Hardcore), and Industrial — and also EDM and House. Here RAW-Kick creatively enables the use of three layers, each of which can be either modelled or sample-based at source. Rob Papen being Rob Papen, RAW-Kick has some refreshingly resourceful features with which to create unique-sounding kicks up its virtual sleeve! Still better, RAW-Kick comes complete with a varied selection of original presets from a long list of respected DnB, Hardcore, and Hardstyle producers, including Caine, DJ Mad Dog, DJ Promo, Orphidian, Sinister Souls, Tha Playah, The Outside Agency, and Wavolizer, to name but a notable few.
Finally, Go2 is an appropriately-named, go-to synthesizer, set apart from its award-winning software siblings by virtue of all its controls and features always being in plain sight and always available to access onscreen, so simplifying usage for the average user. Ultimately, though, this is far from being a simple-sounding virtual instrument. Its Morph feature and XY section serve to make for a powerful software synthesizer, one with which users — average or otherwise — can create unique sounds speedily and easily! End game? Go2 surely shows that there is power to be had in the ‘less is more' maxim... and all without sacrificing audio quality!
Quality, of course, shines brightly through all 20 of eXplorer 5’s highly-versatile virtual instruments and extraordinary effects. Established Rob Papen classics such as Blade (quite literally a cutting-edge software synthesizer), BLUE-II (self-styled ‘Crossfusion Synthesis’), Predator2 (software synthesizer to die for), Punch (speaker-busting, body-rattling virtual drum synth), Punch-BD (Punch- based bass drum module), RAW (software synthesizer specialising in ‘distorted’ sounds specifically suited to EDM and beyond), RG (unique electric and acoustic guitar groove virtual instrument), and SubBoomBass 2 (groove bass software synthesizer) — not forgetting an array of effects, including RP-AMOD (uses modulators to alter audio in different ways), RP-Delay (six delay lines, eight filters, four LFOs, a reverser, and more), RP-Distort (designed to destroy, distort, or more subtly alter any audio), RP-EQ (silky smooth- sounding channel and mastering EQ), and RP-VERB 2 (advanced, transparent, and musical-sounding algorithmic reverb) — sit comfortably and creatively alongside those three additions to collectively push Rob Papen’s prized plug-in bundle beyond belief.
But hearing is believing; best put this way, eXplorer 5 is the all-encompassing best that you can get from Rob Papen — all the more so since it also includes PRISMA, easily enabling users to layer multiple Rob Papen virtual instruments into a creatively stacked sound like no other!
eXplorer 5 can be purchased in a boxed edition — featuring 20 AAX (32-/64-bit), AU (32-/64-bit), VST (32-/64-bit) compatible audio software plug-ins for Mac OS X (10.6 or higher) and Windows (Vista, 7, 8, and 10) — from authorised Rob Papen dealers worldwide or as a download directly from Rob Papen for €499.00 EUR/$499.00 USD from here: http://www.robpapen.com/eXplorer5-buy.html
Several options to upgrade to eXplorer 5 are also available, attractively priced as follows: €299.00 EUR/$299.00 USD (available to owners of one purchased Rob Papen product); €199.00 EUR/$199.00 USD (available to owners of two purchased Rob Papen products); €149.00 EUR/ $149.00 USD (available to owners of three purchased Rob Papen products); €99.00 EUR/$99.00 USD (available to owners of eXplorer4); €49.00 EUR/$49.00 USD (available to owners of eXplorer4 + Go2); and €149.00 EUR/$149.00 USD (available to owners of eXplorer III)."
- Anthony J. Resta (record producer and multi-instrumentalist)
GRENOBLE, FRANCE: music software company XILS-lab is proud to announce availability of XILS 4 — an authentic software emulation of the legendary VCS4, a ‘dual VCS3’ analogue matrix modular synthesizer prototyped by EMS back in 1969, but never commercially released — as of May 19...
EMS (Electronic Music Studios), a British company founded by the pioneering Peter Zinovieff, made musical history in 1969 with its introduction of the VCS3, the first portable synthesizer commercially available anywhere in the world. Its innovative modular matrix-based patchboard dispensed with the telephone exchange-like cabling of other (much larger) modular systems in favour of making connections with (removable) coloured pins, so it could be comfortably housed in a small wooden (solid afrormosia) cabinet.
Needless to say, the (hi)story of the EMS VCS3 is well documented, with XILS-lab later playing its part in resurrecting its still-sought-after sound with its cost-conscious and award-winning XILS 3 software emulation for Mac (OS X 10.4 and above) and PC (Windows 7, Vista, and XP) proving popular with both first-time buyers beginning a wonderfully in-depth journey into the wonderful world of modular synthesis and also seasoned synth explorers, including renowned sound designer Richard Devine and original VCS3 aficionado Tim Blake (Hawkwind), and even Peter Zinovieff himself, who commented kindly: “A great step forward!”
Not so well documented, though, is the stuff of legend: the 1969-vintage VCS4 was EMS designer David Cockerell’s so-called ‘Live Performance Module’, comprising two VCS3s sat side by side, together with a five-octave keyboard, a mixer, and a signal-processing unit, all housed in a single wooden cabinet. Only one prototype was ever produced, its ear-opening sounds lost in the sands of time... until now, that is!
By being based on two intricate and interacting VCS3 (‘Synthi’) cores — following in the fanciful footsteps of its one-off analogue ancestor to a tee, XILS-lab’s XILS 4 favourably emulates EMS’ VCS4. Indeed, those two cores can be set to work side by side or operate in serial (with one feeding the other). Each and every module on one side can be used to modulate or feed anything on the other side with stunning sound possibilities plus weird and wonderful effects readily available in abundance as a direct result. That said, XILS 4 shows its true 21st Century colours by also allowing amount settings to be individually applied to each patch ‘pin’. Providing patchboard power par excellence to an already special soft synth shows that there is clearly so much more to XILS 4 than solely emulating vintage hardware — rare as the vintage hardware in question clearly is. Little wonder, then, that XILS 4 is billed by its creator as being the Ultimate Analog Matrix Modular Synthesizer!
XILS-lab has sought to take things severals steps further still by coupling those cores with the SEQUENCER 256 module, inspired by EMS’ trailblazing Synthi Sequencer 256 namesake. Needless to say, this three-layer sequencer with analogue-to-digital and digital-to-analogue converters to enable digital processing of control voltages to drive multiple analogue synthesizers or multiple parameters with storage of up to 256 ‘events’ was well ahead of its time when released in 1971. Here in the virtual world, XILS-lab has well and truly transported it to the present day with three independent layers, slew rates, and recording modes, together with added abilities like sequencer layers acting as modulation sources in a dedicated SEQ MATRIX — matchless, even by today’s most sophisticated DAW standards!
So is that all? No, not at all! Adding a second ‘pin matrix’, two additional envelopes, an LFO, comprehensive SAMPLE AND HOLD module, and VOLTAGE PROCESSOR, plus several new input modules — including GATE, ENVELOPE FOLLOWER, and PITCH TRACKER — means that there are hundreds of additional connections available to the discerning synthesist set on exploring XILS 4 to the full as a superlative soft synth or as a powerful effects processor plug-in in its own right. The fact that there are over 1,140 possible connections per patch makes for a literal lifetime of programming possibilities that will surely far outlast the host computer concerned, though those in need of a helping hand have easy access to almost 700 professionally-programmed presets from world-renowned sound designers, including the complete XILS 3 factory library and over 350 presets specifically designed for XILS 4. A selection of tutorial-style patches are also available to help users seeking to take their first tentative steps towards scaling the heady heights of this mountainous modular monster of a soft synth!
Simply put, with a whole host of modules and associated far-reaching functionality — for starters, 12 aliasing-free oscillators, grouped in six pairs with wave-shaping and hard sync — yesteryear’s impossibilities have become today’s possibilities with XILS 4... a great step forward, indeed! A giant leap for modular synthesis software, some might say.
XILS 4 is available to purchase as an eLicenser or iLok copy-protected virtual instrument and effects plug-in for an introductory discounted price of €149.00 EUR (rising to €179.00 EUR on June 17, 2014) from the XILS-lab web store here: http://www.xils-lab.com/pages/STORE.html (Note that this time-limited offer also includes the XILISTICS sound bank with 160-plus presets worth €25.00 EUR, plus a free USB-eLicenser copy-protection dongle!)
XILS 3 owners can upgrade to XILS 4 for an introductory price of €29.00 EUR (rising to €49.00 EUR on June 17, 2014). XILS 4 can be directly downloaded as a 32- and 64-bit-compatible virtual instrument and effects plug-in for Mac (AAX, AU, RTAS, VST) and Windows (AAX, RTAS, VST) from here: http://www.xils-lab.com/pages/XILS4_Download.html
Check out several informative XILS 4 tutorial videos here: http://www.xils-lab.com/pages/XILS4_Videos.html"
"I hit record with zero plan, loaded several Dystopia Vol. 3 presets on the Arturia MiniFreak and let the sounds drag me wherever they wanted. At some point I forgot the camera was even rolling; it was just me and the synth. If you’re looking for proof a soundbank has its own pulse, here it is.
"Here's a freshly serviced Oberheim OB-8 that sounds awesome and is available at a great price! The OB-8 is the vintage Oberheim that people should get. All the kinks worked out from the OB-X and OB-Xa, but still that same killer sound! This one has what appears to be a vintage copy of the factory MIDI. Video coming later today.
The previous owner installed my Synthchaser Power Supply Rebuild kits and Ultimate Voice Board Service Kits, but couldn't get all the gremlins worked out of the synth. I acquired it, repaired any issues, and calibrated it to factory spec. I've also replaced the bushings on the keybed, and installed my OB-8 Battery Eliminator, which as the name implies, saves your presets without the need for batteries which would eventually run out. The synth is in reasonable condition, with some damage/cracking to the side panels, typical scratching and wear on the case, and the cap of the collet knob (not the knob itself) for the modulation rate pot on the bender assembly has been replaced with a 3D printed part. Hard to spot it, but I'm all about full disclosure.
Service included:
· All trimmers replaced with multi-turn trimmers and all trimmers calibrated.
· New control board to voice board ribbon cable
· New pot board connector cables
· Power supply rebuilt with Synthchaser power supply rebuild kit (new beefier bridge rectifiers, new filter capacitors)
· Synthchaser OB-8 Battery Eliminator installed - no need to replace the battery in this synth, ever!
· New key bushings (this is an early OB-8 with the Pratt Reed keybed and not the noisy Panasonic keybed)
Due to the current situation, I'm not doing local pickup, shipping within the US only. The synthesizer will be professionally packed by the UPS store and insured for the full purchase price. This is a vintage electronic item, so all sales are as-is and final. But visit the Synthchaser YouTube channel and rest assured that a high quality job was done on this synthesizer by the expert on Oberheim Synthesizers."
"Whitmore takes the iconic Yamaha CS80 & meticulously replicates 36 famous songs to create a wonderful landscape of classic 70s 80s & 90s songs, stings, themes & intros by artists including Vangelis, Dr Who, Kate Bush, Bruce Springsteen, Prefab Sprout, Genesis and more. The licks are played to the original recordings so they are in time - true to the original, effects are duplicated too & the camera set up is made so you can duplicate the sounds yourself on emulation plug ins or the original.
Time Stamps:
00:00 Bruce Springsteen Born in the USA Intro Synth Chordal Melody 00:19 Prefab Sprout If You Don't Love Me Intro Brass 00:37 Genesis Duchess String Glide 00:49 Genesis Duchess Pluck Line 01:03 Genesis Turn It On Again Brass line 01:14 Paul McCartney Wonderful Xmas Time Middle 8 Lick 01:23 Kate Bush Babooshka Intro Lead 01:44 Vangelis To the Unknown Man Intro Melody 02:11 Vangelis Chariots Of Fire Brass Melody 02:44 Paul McCartney Ebony and Ivory Intro Brass 02:57 Dr Who Signature Sting 03:05 Dr Who Theme Bass 03:40 Toto Takin' It Back Sine Glissando Pad 03:50 Toto Africa Brass pad 04:34 Toto Rosanna Brass pad 04:56 ELO Time - Prologue String Intro 05:30 Vangelis Blade Runner Brass line 06:37 Genesis Behind The Lines Intro Brass 06:53 10cc Tokyo String Pad 07:11 10cc Tokyo Flute line 07:28 ELO Twilight Brass Line 07:45 Michael Jackson Human Nature Brass pad 08:05 Paul McCartney Wonderful Xmas Time CS80 Solo 08:16 Paul McCartney & Stevie Wonder Ebony and Ivory Lead Synth 08:46 Vangelis Blade Runner String Pad 09:46 Jon & Vangelis I Hear You Now Main Theme 11:21 Vangelis Chariots Of Fire Brass Lick 11:57 Kate Bush Babooshka Flute Glide 12:24 10cc Dreadlock Holiday Lead line 12:45 10cc For You And I String Pad 13:22 ELO Yours Truly, 2095 Flute Line 13:41 Quincy Jones Betcha' Wouldn't Hurt Me Lead Synth 14:09 Michael Jackson Billie Jean String Part 14:43 10cc For You And I Flute Line 14:59 Vangelis Blade Runner Flute Intro Line 16:25 Vangelis Blade Runner Brass line-no bass
Thank you KSR for doing such a complete restoration on this CS80 - that had been stored in a garage for 25 years! In this video, take a look at the legendary CS-80 with Andy Whitmore. This beloved eight-voice analog synthesizer with great controls like polyphonic aftertouch and a ribbon controller. Its extremely fat sound makes it an honourable member of the hall of fame of synthesizers. The CS80 was produced between 1977 and 1980.
"Syntronik is a cutting-edge virtual synthesizer that raises the bar in sound quality and flexibility thanks to the most advanced sampling techniques combined with a new hybrid sample and modeling synthesis engine. Syntronik includes 17 amazing instruments, available as a collection or separately, with over 2,000 preset sounds covering a wide selection from 38 of the most iconic to ultra-rare and painstakingly multi-sampled vintage synthesizers. Syntronik’s synthesis engine goes well beyond traditional sampling thanks to a brand new analog modeled filter section created with the utmost expertise from IK, the pioneer in virtual circuit modeling. This is coupled with exclusive DRIFT™ technology to accurately reproduce the behavior of oscillators from real hardware synths. All of this combined with an effects section that is unrivaled in the world of virtual instruments along with advanced features like 4-part layers, splits and arpeggiators make Syntronik the ultimate source of inspiration with the widest palette of synthesizer sounds ranging from exact reproductions of the originals to sounds never heard before that will stand out from the crowd in productions covering any genre and style."
"Syntronik includes the following 38 amazing synths and string machines offering more than 2,000 instrument presets:
San Francisco, CA – May 9, 2022 – In a momentous industry development, Oberheim Electronics, one of the most venerated names in synthesizer design, has announced its return to operation to meet the rising global demand for its instruments.
• 8-voice, pure-analog polyphony with saw, square/pulse, triangle, and noise
The official press release follows:
Iconic 1990s Digital Synth Now Available for the ZENOLOGY Software Synthesizer
and Select ZEN-Core Hardware Instruments 
"PC361 Overview
via Wolfgang Palm
"Product Highlights
Easy data exchange between PPG MiniMapper and PPG WaveMapper
PPG MiniMapper offers iPhone and iPod Touch users a new way to explore and perform in the studio, on stage or simply on the go. PPG MiniMapper allows the user the opportunity to use limitless sounds from this unique and powerful new technology.
