u-he's Urs Heckmann The CVilizationist

The CVilizationist HeadphonesMix Published on Aug 9, 2019 Urs Heckmann

"This is a special mix using Sennheiser Ambeo software to recreate the spatial depth of the original quadraphonic mix.

All sequencing and quantization (time & pitch) is done using one CVilization in Mode III (with a tiny bit of help from Brains + PressurePoints). A second CVilization mixes and animates four voices of melody and percussion in its quadraphonic panning mode (Mode IV).

Some of the live action apart from mixing, filtering, triggering and sound design is recording new sequences into CVilization, and setting mutation depths to evolve these sequences during playback."

The CVilizationist StereoMix

Published on Aug 9, 2019 Urs Heckmann

"Stereo mix of a modular live performance showcasing CVilization for sequencing and mixing.

All sequencing and quantization (time & pitch) is done using one CVilization in Mode III (with a tiny bit of help from Brains + PressurePoints). A second CVilization mixes and animates four voices of melody and percussion in its quadraphonic panning mode (Mode IV).

Some of the live action apart from mixing, filtering, triggering and sound design is recording new sequences into CVilization, and setting mutation depths to evolve these sequences during playback."

Hollywood Movie Scores With U-HE HIVE 2

video upload by Woody Piano Shack

"Demo and review of U-HE HIVE 2 VST plugin software synthesizer.
Playing the presets created by the legendary sound designer Howard Scarr who works with Hans Zimmer to create the soundtracks for many Hollywood blockbuster movies.
You'll hear bass, pad, sequencer sounds plus all the effects that the synth has to offer.

All presets and sounds demonstrated here are from the factory library included with Hive."

Interview: Urs Heckmann, Howard Scarr and Viktor Weimer - Crack u-he sound designers

video upload by sonicstate

"We were able to chat with the sound designer behind many of u-he's patches across their instrument range. Howard Scarr is well known for his sound design and patch work being hired by Hans Zimmer for The Dark Knight. Viktor Weimer has been creating patches for the u-he range for some years, and Urs Heckmann of course is where the company takes its name and is the chief architect of their range.

The patches were created in Hive 2.1 -the .1 being after Urs added some extra features to Hive to allow for more creative sound design. Specifically in the filter types plus a few other features.

Metaphorium is available for download now priced at €39:
https://u-he.com/products/soundsets/h...

00:00 How did Metaphorium start?
09:00 What new features did you add to Hive?
13:38 What is your process for creating patches?
17:20 Designing for performance
22:40 is the a final mastering process?
24:50 Is it important to be able to play to create patches?
32:20 Quiz: Who's patch is this?
35:55 Do you get inspired by your own patches?
38:37 When is patch finished?
43:00 How do you come up with names?
50:40 Controlling
55:30 Any of your patches recognised in the movie"

SUPERBOOTH 2021 u-he Urs Heckmann Interview + MFM2 1st Look

video upload by sonicstate

"A rare chance to talk to the main man at u-he - Urs Heckmann - we talk M1 updates, feature creep and get a look at some of the new features in the More Feedback Machine 2 which is currently being given a work over for its M1 release."

CVilization - first prototype test run

Published on Apr 28, 2018 Urs Heckmann

Side project from u-he's Urs Heckmann.

"CVilization outputs 3 and 4 plugged into V/octave of two oscillators. Two voltages from Pressure Points plugged into CVilization inputs 3 & 4. Moskwa Sequencer plugged into CVilization input 2. Clock plugged into CVilization second CV input.

CVilization outs 3 & 4 quantized to minor scale, sample & hold from clock input.

First: Mixing input 4 onto outputs 3 & 4, so that both oscillators are controlled from one input (Pressure Points bottom row).

Second: Mixing input 3 onto output 3, to control the interval of one oscillator to the other (Pressure Points middle row).

Good for some noodling around.

Third: What about different depth of control? - Instant extra fun for noodling!

Forth: Adding input 2 (sequencer) into both oscillators. Which of course can be done at different depths as well for some nice variation.

Fifth: Changing depths, changing sequencer clock (Euclidean Circles) and direction (Forward - Pendulum).

Then, going back to minimum values."

Groove TV: Klanggestalter - Urs Heckmann (u-he) (HD Video)

Published on Jun 19, 2013 groovemagazine·33 videos

"Im Technik-Sonderteil der Groove-Ausgabe 139 stellten wir eine Reihe von Klanggestaltern und Softwareentwicklern vor, deren Plugins, virtuelle Synthesizer und Samplepacks die aktuelle elektronische Musik massiv beeinflussen. Dabei kommt auch Urs Heckmann von der kleinen Berliner Firma u-he zu Wort, der unter anderem für die hochgelobten Softsynths Zebra und Diva verantwortlich zeichnet. Wir haben ihn und sein Team mit der Kamera ein zweites Mal besucht und ihn zu den Herausforderungen bei der Emulation von analogen Synthesizern befragt.

Link: http://www.u-he.com/

Kamera, Schnitt und Regie: Maren Sextro
http://marensextro.com/

Erstausstrahlung im November 2012 auf Groove.de
http://bit.ly/YOwCNB
Besuche unsere Webseite: http://www.groove.de/
Folge uns auf Facebook: http://on.fb.me/15TcIX0"

Urs Heckmann (U-he) Superbooth 18 Rehearsal (Live Modular Performance)

Published on May 2, 2018 Urs Heckmann

"Reahearsal session of my CVilization showcase on Friday. The goal is to get a lot of mileage out of an 8-step sequencer (Xaoc Moskwa) without changing the sequence, but by scaling its voltage before quantizers for different voices. In addition, doing some noodle like I did in the previous video.

Sorry for some scratchy distortion in the middle. I thought I had had the headroom, but...

My apologies for the mandatory noise-phaser intro and outro."

Superbooth 2018: Urs Heckmann (UHE) on "Cvlization" Module

Published on May 5, 2018 studentsmusic

"Urs Heckmann taking the time to intensively explain UHEs first and brandnew Eurorack Module."

See the U-he label below for more.

Early August Noodle (Modular Synth Performance)

Urs Heckmann
Published on Aug 7, 2017

Urs Heckmann is the man behind u-he.

"Here's last weekend's patch on a small system. All sound is recorded straight out of this synth. Goes to show that two oscillators, one filter plus Rings and Clouds make for a nicely dense patch. Base drum (way too loud, sorry for that) stems from Peaks. I'm using Batumi + 2 x Tirana and the Sequenced Switch to create all sorts of triggers, random offsets and rhythmic context.

Most of the performance is setting the levels of each component, plus a few tweaks on Maths. I could have done more, but...

... the general problem with recording a video like that is, I could do much more to make it interesting, but it might be difficult to come back to the original setting. Hence some knobs are better left untouched if there's the slightest chance one needs to reshoot. Then, after five or six attempts one is just fine with the bad light, noisy looks and some mixing errors. I need more experience with this :-)

Patch Notes:

CLICK FOR MORE »

Interview mit Urs Heckmann / u-he

Published on Oct 27, 2014 YouRecordingde

For our German speakers out there. Unfortunately, no CC on this one.

"Mit hochkarätigen Software-Synthesizern und -Effekten wie ACE, Diva, Satin, Zebra oder Bazille bezieht das Berliner Unternehmen u-he seit Jahren einen Stammplatz auf den Rechnern vieler Top-Produzenten. RECORDING.de besuchte das Team um Firmengründer Urs Heckmann und plauderte über sein Leben als Nerd und Visionär."

Trippy in Kamieniec

Published on Jun 27, 2017 Urs Heckmann

Urs Heckmann aka u-he.

"Minimal Modular Synth performance.

I'm currently in a phase where I enjoy building a whole idea within just a small, contained rack. This time using the Vermona rack with a bunch of their 1U multiples/mixers.

3 Bass/percussion voices: Used Tempi and Bytom to cut up gates and clocks from Metropolis to generate three different rhythmic bass/percussion lines from STO and MiniMod VCO (through MMG, uFold and LXd). All of this through DLD.

Solo Voices: Using Maths as envelope (RingMod via Blinds) and control voltage for a random melody with Dixie II+ , displaced by Batumi /w Sport Modulator and scaled by uScale II. Using MiniMod VCF as Filter/Volume control for this melody. Put a Kamieniec on top of that, which in the beginning is heard by itself as fx sweeps in self oscillation (ringmod'd through cycled Maths).

Mixed, delayed, equalised and limited in Logic."

Auto Noodle Machine

Published on May 19, 2017 Urs Heckmann

Another from U-he's Urs Heckmann.

"A small patch with four voices being sequenced by one sequencer, but only one voice (STO) plays the actual sequence. I used a sample & hold on another voice (AJH VCO+VCF) to make it play a reduction of the sequence. I used Maths and uScale to create two voice polyphonic noodle from Complex Oscillator on top of the base sequence. This makes it sound a bit like a crossover of chiptune and carnival music."

Urs Heckmann presents his new module Civilization from U-He @SUPERBOOTH18

Urs Heckmann presents his new module Civilization from U-He @SUPERBOOTH18 from HerrSchneider on Vimeo.

"The first module by U-He - the Civilization is an advanced 4x4 routing module that can be used in several configurations, for processing CV and audio."

Visit to u-he headquarters in Berlin

YouTube Uploaded by uheplugins on Aug 24, 2011

Don't miss part 2 below for some vintage synth play.
"Playing with Urs Heckmann's recently acquired collection of vintage analogue synthesizers."

Visit to u-he headquarters in Berlin - Part 2

Uploaded by uheplugins on Aug 25, 2011

"Playing with Urs Heckmann's recently acquired collection of vintage analogue synthesizers."

Bleepy Machine Groove

Published on Apr 21, 2020 Urs Heckmann

Urs Heckmann of U-he software on heurorack.

"4 Oscillators FMing each other through CVilization acting as 4 x 4 sequential switch.

This is an experimental patch that I wanted to try for a while: 4 Oscillators are plugged into CVilization, which then is plugged back into the FM inputs of the oscillators. CVz' Sequential Switch mode then distributes a different oscillator to FM any other with each clock step, resulting in complex FM patterns.

After some tweaking, at some point I found this bass groove which kind of seemed noteworthy. As I hadn't set this up in a proper studio, I simply used my phone to record the video while tweaking. I reckon the lofi video experience matches the randomness of the music quite nicely.

Patch Notes:

CVilization in 4 x 4 Sequential Switch mode
MI Grids for rhythm and clock
4 x Mini Mod Osc by AJH, feeding through CVz into themselves, and into 2 VCFs/VCAs for 2 dual voices with 2 VCOs each
Filters by AJH (Mini Mod) and Make Noise (QPas, used in stereo)
VCA by Intellijel (uVCA) and Make Noise (X-Pan)
Intellijel Quadrax for envelopes, triggered by Grids
Additional sequencing and by Xaoc (Moskwa, Tirana)
Erica PicoDrums for base drum
Xaoc Praga for Mixing
Erica PicoDSP for reverb
Alright Devices Chronoblob 2 for delay"

Musikmesse 2013: u-he Bazille with Urs Heckmann - FM Modular

Published on Apr 15, 2013 FutureMusicMagazine·275 videos

"u-he founder, Urs Heckmann explains his new synth, Bazille. After four years in the alpha stage, the Modular FM, phase distortion and fractal resonance synth is now in beta testing and should be available in the summer priced at $149."

Added to the master Musikmesse Synth List.

Machina Bristronica 2024

video uploads by sonicstate

Playlist:

1. Bristronica 24: MyVolts The Silent Alchemist Nears Shipping

We caught up with Caroline who gave us the latest update to the *Silent Alchemist*, a versatile power hub designed for musicians. Featuring five isolated USB-C outputs and a high-wattage sixth output capable of delivering 100 watts, the device can power a Mac with the remaining outputs providing 20 watts each. Its independent circuits ensure noise-free operation, catering to a variety of devices including the Dreadbox module and Sysmo slope generator.

The Silent Alchemist uses innovative step-up power tips to convert USB-C input to the correct voltage for various devices. There's also new feature: an uninterruptible power supply allowing seamless transition between wall and power bank sources. Also introduced were updated cables, such as silver candy cords and floating ring TRS to TS cables, expanding connection flexibility. The Silent Alchemist is expected to be available in December with a competitive pricing strategy.

More Info:
https://myvolts.com/

2. Bristronica 24: Circuit Happy ML2M Clock Sync module updates

At Bristronica 2024, we caught up with the creator of the *ML2M*, who introduced us to the latest version. The ML2M is a compact Eurorack module with Wi-Fi capabilities, allowing seamless synchronization with Ableton Live, Bitwig Studio, and iOS music apps using Ableton Link without the need for cables. It either connects to an existing network or creates its own, ensuring robust sync even in environments with unreliable Wi-Fi. The module, which retains its 2HP size, now features MIDI integration through TRS jacks. Users can access a web interface to configure each output for different clock divisions and reset triggers, making setup straightforward and flexible.

Alongside the ML2M, there's also the Missing Link Junior. This desktop version offers the same functionality but in a box format, complete with MIDI and CV clock outputs. Both products are now accessible, with a starting price of $250.

3. Bristronica 24: Archaea Exchange Patching Module

At Machina Bristronica 2024, we caught up with Arran from ‪@archaea_modular_synthesis‬ who presented the *Exchange Module*. This programmable patcher, a year in the making, evolved from its early prototype stage to a fully functional module. Arran explained how the Exchange can route synth voices via a beam controller and three exchange modules installed within the skiff, allowing for versatile patching. Operating like a matrix patchbay, it enables users to select inputs and outputs with the push of a button, create presets, and chain multiple modules for synchronized patching.

Communication between the modules occurs over the Eurorack power bus as well as over MIDI via the USB-C connection. The Exchange maintains analog integrity, ensuring there’s no conversion latency. The forthcoming release expected in late November 2024, includes a USB-driven editor for enhanced control capabilities.

CLICK FOR MORE »

NAMM 2025: U-he Shows the Zebra 3 Alpha

video upload by sonicstate

"Nick had a chat with Urs Heckmann from U-he, who was showing a sneak peek of the current Zebra 3 alpha version.

While it's still quite a long way from the final product, it's clear that Zebra 3 comes with a host of new and innovative features.

Urs highlighted that the inclusion of vector synthesis and a refined UI aims to push boundaries beyond what Zebra 2 offered. Zebra 3 allows you to mix four lanes into one, includes novel modules like the modal resonator, and features workflow improvements such as group selections and an integrated modulation matrix.

Zebra 3 also introduced new filter responses and pitch sources, offering flexibility to emulate various sound architectures. Urs explained that despite its alpha status, their focus is on refining sound design tools before rolling out other features, like an arpeggiator."

SUPERBOOTH 2024: U-He - Zebralette Soft Synth

video upload by sonicstate

"At Superbooth 2024 we met up with Urs Heckmann of* U-He*, and he told us about the progress of varous products, some of which are ready, and some which are in the pipeline. He started by showing us Zebralette*, which now gets a dark mode, which is good for people who don't want to strain their eyes. *Zebralette *is still a work in progress, but Urs said he hoped the next beta of *Zebralette wouldn't be too far away now.

Urs also showed us an oscilloscope, which is also still in progress, and is similar to the oscilloscope in *Hive*, but as a stand alone app, with zoom, freeze and you can zoom down to a single cycle, and even down to sample level. You can save what you see as a wave file, which promises to be very useful.

For more information and updates on the progress of the new products go to the U-He website."

Superbooth 2023: U-he - Zebra 3 Alpha Features

video upload by sonicstate

"[apologies for the chunky video from 4:00]
We spoke to Urs Heckmann, founder of U-he, at Superbooth 2023 and got a glimpse of the upcoming Zebralette 3, the free version of Zebra, which includes one oscillator and an MSEG with a few extras, and is shaping up to be a significant update from its previous version. Urs mentioned that this release is more of a prototype and alpha version, and the team is focusing on releasing it ahead of Zebra 3 as that is still in development.

The new editor allows intuitive wave drawing for oscillators, MSEGs or modulations and looks very easy to use, letting you drag shapes in any direction, drawing lines to produce sequences, and a tool that rotates the curve to change the phase of a waveform. There are also guide curves that manipulate the curve in the background, allowing users to create complex shapes with ease. Most importantly, the synth is already sounding pretty amazing, as you'd expect from Urs' passion project.

Zebra 3 Available: soon. Price TBC

Zebralette 3 Available: Sooner. Price: Free

https://u-he.com/"

New Zebra 2 Filter Module Sample

Title link takes you to a sample of a new Zebra 2 Filter module posted by creator Urs Heckmann on this BigBlueLounge thread. I decided to go with the R2 image in the thread as there are no screens yet, and the reference below.

Some notes via Urs in the thread:
"Last year I had coincidentally discovered a way to create a filter with a really good sounding self-oscillation when a new scientific paper on Moog filter simulation came up. Latter was a great source of information, but it would still not work like I wanted, especially in terms of cpu hunger and tuning.

So I spent the holidays on getting a Moog Little Phatty and tweaking the shit out of the new filter (dubbed XMF for Croos Modulation Filter). Yesterday it came to the point where

- cpu usage is moderate (2-3% for stereo operation on an 1.83 GHz MBP @44.1 kHz)
- self-oscillation (with no input) is in almost perfect tune and nearly constant level from 50Hz to 14+kHz
- any trick used in Littly Phatty presets would work on the XMF as well
- parameter ranges exceed that of the LP
- bandpass mode works (I gave up on highpass for now)

It's not a perfect emulation of the Moog ladder filter though. But it has all of the properties of an anlogue filter, starting from the juicyness up to the self oscillation that does *not* lock into the spectrum of the incoming signal. Latter is especially interesting. There is a range of resonance where the self oscillation would "wobble" between the actual filter frequency and the closest frequency in the spectrum of the input signal. I havn't heard this in digital filters so far but it's exactly how the Moog does it.

The R2-D2 solo at the end btw. is just the filter with full resonance and a little overload. ModWheel controls filter fm by an oscillator while PitchWheel controls cutoff over several octaves.

The first solo sound (thin, voicy) features filter fm with an oscillator tuned 4 octaves up. Sounds exactly like the LP, with the difference that it's stable & in tune over the whole keyboard range.

The ultra phat guitarish solo sound is not based on hard synced oscillators, it just plain detuned sawtooths run through the bandpass mode with lots of overload.

The pad sound is a couple of detuned sawtooth/pwm oscs run through the bandpass. An lfo modulates the frequency of the bandpass in opposite polarity for right/left side which creates the panning effect.

I think it's almost ready for release, but the SSE code has yet to be rewritten in AltiVec for G4/G5 (no big deal). I'm afraid though that it will probably not work on a G3, or it would consume close to 20% on a G3 when operating mono instead of stereo... and it's gotta be fine tuned & tested for samplerates other than 44.1 kHz...

Later,

Wink Urs"

Previous posts on Zebra 2

Update via Bee Jay in the comments:
Pic for you if you want: [link]



"This is one of the phattest filters I've heard since impOscar - and the bandpass mode is also superb."