Synth Shop Hieber-Lindberg, Munich, Germany

via cheater cheater:

"I thought your readers could be interested that there's
such a nice place in Munich for synths.. it's not exactly Five G but
then they don't have to fly to Japan for it.. :)

Hi guys,
Last Saturday I have visited the music shop Musikhaus Hieber-Lindberg
in Munich, Germany. I was tipped off by Florian, who said it could be
interesting. You can find their website at
http://www.hieber-lindberg.de (unfortunately only in German, but it's
easy to find your way around, and Google Translate works well)

The Shop

CLICK FOR MORE »

E-MU Vintage X Pro Collection Synth and Keyboards (Volume 1, 2, and 3)

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.
Demos for volumes 1 & 2 above. Not sure when these came out but I'm seeing reviews for it online dating back to 2010.

via this auction

"E-MU EMU Vintage X Pro Instruments Sound Library bundle (including all 3 volumes).

New and sealed In Manufacturer's original package.

A Massive 7.5GB Collection of Vintage Synths and Keyboards!

These sound library are for use with Emulator X Proteus X.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Vintage analog vs modern - using @devinbelangermusic‬ midi tracks

video upload by Jose's Vintage Keys

"@devinbelangermusic‬ made a great video together with ‪@VultureCulture‬ comparing Devin's modern analogs with Alex's Vintage gear. Devin was so kind to share the midi - so I could make my version. Check out their video!"

Do Vintage Synths Actually Sound BETTER?! (with Vulture Culture)

video upload by Devin Belanger

Music & comparison starts at 6:26.

Vintage Synthesizer list:
Yamaha CS-70m
Kog Polysix
Fender Chroma Polaris
Formanta Polivoks
Roland RE-501 Chorus Echo
Kawai
Korg MS 20

Modern Synths:
UDO Super Gemini
Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave
Oberheim OB-X8
Moog Matriarch
Hologram Microcosm
Meris MercuryX
Polyend Play+

🎹 Get my custom analog synth patches: https://shop.milesawayofficial.com/
🎵 Stream my original music: https://beacons.ai/milesaway

0:00 - intro
0:31 - rules of the competition
0:55 - vintage synths choices explained
6:25 - vintage synths final song
8:39 - modern synths explanation
12:08 - modern synths final song
14:21 - what we learned from this experiment
19:37 - who won? tell us in the comments!
20:10 - ???

DSI Prophet REV2 Demos by Syntza

Published on May 10, 2019 Syntza

Playlist:

1. DSI Prophet REV2 Character Ultimate Vintage Analog Demo

Demo by Syntza. Vintage sounds that shows what a character synth the REV2 can be. Instrument used: DSI Prophet REV2(Synths and Bass). EFX used: DSI Prophet REV2, Zoom 9010, Yamaha SPX-990 and Roland SRV-2000. Recorded by REAPER software.

2. DSI Prophet REV2 Character Ultimate Vintage Analog II Demo

Same as above.

3. Tumbling Away

Song by Syntza. Dark Cinematic Soundscaped Ambient - Techno. Sounds that shows what a character synth the REV2 and Tetra 4 can be. All REV2 from 00:14 to 01:38 then Tetra 4 again join in. Instrument used: DSI Prophet REV2(Synths and Bass) and DSI Tetra 4(Synths and Bass). EFX used: DSI Prophet REV2, Zoom 9010, Yamaha SPX-990 and Roland SRV-2000. Sequencer by Akai MPC-2500. Recorded by REAPER software.
SHOW MORE

4. DSI Prophet REV2 Character Ultimate Vintage Analog III Demo

Demo by Syntza. Vintage sounds that shows what a character synth the REV2 can be. Instrument used: DSI Prophet REV2(Synths and Bass). EFX used: DSI Prophet REV2, Zoom 9010, Yamaha SPX-990 and Roland SRV-2000. Recorded by REAPER software.

5. DSI Prophet REV2 and Tetra 4 Roscosmos Роскосмос

Song by Syntza. Dark Cinematic Soundscaped Ambient - Techno. Sounds that shows what a character synth the REV2 and Tetra 4 can be. Inspired by the Sci-fi universe of the 60s and 70s and Russian Space Program. Instrument used: DSI Prophet REV2(Synths and Bass) and DSI Tetra 4(Synths and Bass). EFX used: DSI Prophet REV2, Zoom 9010, Yamaha SPX-990 and Roland SRV-2000. Sequencer by Akai MPC-2500. Recorded by REAPER software.

6. DSI Prophet REV2 and Tetra 4 Hello am here again Horror Ambient

Song by Syntza. Dark Cinematic Soundscaped Ambient - Techno. Inspired by the upcoming Horror movie, IT: Chapter Two. Sounds that shows what a character synth the REV2 and Tetra 4 can be. Instrument used: DSI Prophet REV2(Synths and Bass) and DSI Tetra 4(Synths and Bass). EFX used: DSI Prophet REV2, Zoom 9010, Yamaha SPX-990 and Roland SRV-2000. Sequencer by Akai MPC-2500. Recorded by REAPER software.

7. DSI Prophet REV2 and Tetra 4 Stranger Behave

Song by Syntza. Dark Cinematic Soundscaped Ambient - Techno. Sounds that shows what a character synth the REV2 and Tetra 4 can be. Instrument used: DSI Prophet REV2(Synths and Bass) and DSI Tetra 4(Synths and Bass). EFX used: DSI Prophet REV2, Zoom 9010, Yamaha SPX-990 and Roland SRV-2000. Sequencer by Akai MPC-2500. Recorded by REAPER software.

8. DSI Prophet REV2 Character Ultimate Vintage Analog IIII

Demo by Syntza. Vintage sounds that shows what a character synth the REV2 can be. More sounds of the past like VHS intro`s and 80s. Using modulations for the EFX in the REV2 for chorus and delays to make them more analog. Instrument used: DSI Prophet REV2(Synths and Bass). EFX used: DSI Prophet REV2, Zoom 9010, Yamaha SPX-990 and Roland SRV-2000. Recorded by REAPER software.

SYNTHS WHEN - Synth Studio & Repair Shop Tour | Toronto, Canada

Published on Nov 10, 2019 synth4ever

"An in-depth synth studio tour of Synths When (http://www.synthswhen.com), a vintage synthesizer repair shop and music studio in Toronto, Canada. Run by Jay and Brock, Synths When specializes in vintage synth repairs for Moog, Roland, Yamaha, Korg, Rhodes, Wurlitzer, organs, Serge Modular and much more.

In this synth studio tour, Jay takes us through the shop, goes over various synths, discusses testing procedures for synthesizers, highlights some vintage synths and other classics, and gives us a walkthrough of the Synths When music studio and gear (including modular synths).

Both Jay and Brock bring over a decade of experience with vintage synthesizers to Toronto's music scene. They handle everything from repairing and rebuilding synths, to tuning and regular maintenance.

If you need to get your synth repaired in the Toronto or surrounding regions, do not hesitate to give them a call. They accept repairs by appointment and are happy to help everyone from musicians to studio owners with original or vintage gear."

Fender Chroma Polaris Rev 9 with expanded Sequencer Memory SN 300689

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this auction

Pics of the inside below.

According to the listing:

"Rare Chroma Polaris multi-timbral analog synth in near mint condition. Rev 9 firmware with maxed out sequencer memory ( 4 X factory)

The Polaris is a highly under rated synth. It has a vintage analog sound along with the flexible MIDI implementation of a modern synth. This synth was ahead of its time obscured by the digital craze at the time.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Korg Offers Seven New Sound Libraries for Kronos Music Workstation"

"Melville, NY, September, 2012 - Korg announces the availability of seven additional expansion libraries and sample sound libraries for the Korg Kronos Music Workstation. These expansion libraries include: EXs64 KARO Ethno World and EXs67 KARO Upright Piano by KARO, as well as new titles from Korg's newest third party sound developers, Irish Acts and Kid Nepro. New titles from Irish Acts include: EXs90 Kronos Assault, and new Kid Nepro titles include EXs80 Vintage Synths, EXs 82 Hit Factory, KRS80 Soundtrack Mix, and KRS81 Sonix Bliss.

EXs90 Kronos Assault
EXs90 includes massive, luscious pads, movie sounds and effects, all topped off with a selection of classic synth sounds, plus an assortment of sampled human voices, from natural sounds to dreamy vocals. Exs90 is currently available for download for US $180

Exs80 Vintage Synths
EXs80 Vintage Synths includes over 250 MB of new sample data with a wide assortment of classic analog basses, leads, pads, strings & killer synth sounds that have that vintage analog sound that many musicians pay big bucks for - now at a fraction of the cost. An amazing assortment of Programs & Combis that utilize KARMA and are perfect for producers and keyboard players looking for classic synth sounds to add to their Kronos. Exs80 is currently available for download for US $69

Exs82 Hit Factory
EXs82 Hit Factory is a mix of Programs & Combis utilizing KARMA, that is perfect for producers and keyboard players. Hit factory includes six new drum kits with hundreds of samples. Also included are a wide mix of funk guitars, orchestra hits, noises, scratches, human beat boxes, analog vocoders and more. Exs82 is currently available for download for US $69

KRS80 Soundtrack Mix
KRS80 Soundtrack Mix features a mix of killer pads, synth sounds and unique rhythms - an assortment of different "atmospheres" that are ideally suited for TV, video games, film projects, or for composers scoring modern classical music. KRS80 is currently available for download for US $39

KRS81 Sonix Bliss
KRS81 Sonix Bliss focuses on the MOD-7 sound engine, including a wide assortment of classic FM-style synth sounds along with a mix of complex sounds. Everything from 80's DX-style electric pianos to modern 21st-century synths is included, with a mix of basses, leads, pads, drums, percussion and much more. KRS81 is currently available for download for US $39

Exs64 Ethno World
The first World library for the KORG Kronos, EXs64 KARO Ethno World was produced in collaboration with Erkan Ucar (Ecomusik). These Ethno instruments-include strings, winds, keyboards, percussion, and more-were collected around the globe and arranged into this single and extremely versatile library. Exs64 is currently available for download for the special price of US $199 (Normally $249)

Exs67 Upright Piano
KARO's EXs67 Upright Piano library delivers the familiar sound of an upright piano, with all the modern advantages and possibilities that Kronos technology has to offer. A traditional German piano was sampled with 6 velocity layers, for a total of 1.6GB of high-quality samples, and 36 Programs specifically designed for them - including six by Michael Geisel of Korg & More in Germany. Exs67 is currently available for download for the special price of US $99 (Normally $169)

All libraries are available at: www.korg.com/kronos/SoundLibraries. Free demo versions of the EXs libraries can be downloaded; purchasing an authorization code from the secure Korg Web Shop unlocks full access to the libraries. Please see Korg.com for sound demos and download/ installation system requirements."

VINTAGE SYNTHESIZER MUSEUM - Synth Studio Tour & Synthesizer Music Studio

Published on Sep 18, 2018 synth4ever

"An in-depth synth studio tour of the Vintage Synthesizer Museum -- a classic synth, music & recording studio in Oakland, California.

The Vintage Synthesizer Museum is a legendary synthesizer music studio where you can play, record, and learn about vintage analog synths including Roland Jupiter 8, Yamaha CS-60, Sequential Circuits Prophet-5, Arp 2600 and more.

The Vintage Synth Museum features over 40+ analog synthesizers and various drum machines, effects, amplifiers, keyboards, music and audio recording tools.

To learn more or book your appointment at the Vintage Synth Museum, visit http://www.vintagesynthmuseum.com"

Update:

Video retitled: VINTAGE SYNTHESIZER MUSEUM - Synth Studio Tour & Synthesizer Reviews

With following description & timeline:

"An in-depth synth studio tour of the Vintage Synthesizer Museum -- a classic synth, music & recording studio in Oakland, California.

The Vintage Synthesizer Museum is a legendary synthesizer music studio where you can play, record, and learn about vintage analog synths including Roland Jupiter 8, Yamaha CS-60, Sequential Circuits Prophet-5, Arp 2600 and more.

The Vintage Synth Museum features over 40+ analog synthesizers and various drum machines, effects, amplifiers, keyboards, music and audio recording tools.

To learn more or book your appointment at the Vintage Synth Museum, visit http://www.vintagesynthmuseum.com


=======

Vintage Synthesizer Museum - Synth studio tour timecodes:

00:00 - Intro

* POLYPHONIC SYNTHS - QUICK WALTHROUGH:
00:28 - Yamaha CS-70M
00:31 - Yamaha CS-60
00:33 - Oberheim OB-Xa
00:36 - Sequential Circuits Prophet 5
00:37 - Sequential Circuits Prophet T8
00:37 - EMS Vocoder
00:40 - Roland RS-505
00:40 - Roland Jupiter 6
00:40 - Roland TR-808
00:41 - Roland Jupiter 4
00:41 - Roland Jupiter 8
00:48 - Yamaha CS-40M
00:48 - Rhodes Piano
00:52 - Rhodes Chroma
00:52 - DK Syngery
00:52 - Korg Mono/Poly
00:56 - Buchla Music Box

* MONOSYNTHS & DRUM MACHINES:
01:15 - ElectroComp 200
01:17 - Korg Vocoder
01:20 - Korg MS-50
01:20 - Korg MS-20 & MS-10
01:32 - Roland SH-101
01:35 - Roland TR-606
01:36 - Sequential Circuits Pro-One
01:38 - Roland TR-909
01:42 - CMI Fairlight

* MOSTLY MONOSYNTHS:
01:55 - Monosynth wall

02:08 - Aelita synth
02:10 - Arp 2600
02:33 - Korg PS-3100
02:40 - Gleeman Pentaphonic
02:52 - Crumar SPirit
02:58 - ElectroComp 101
03:03 - Korg Maxi-Korg
03:07 - Moog Minimoog Model D
03:11 - Oxford OSCar
03:17 - Steiner Parker Synthacon
03:18 - Octave The Cat

* POLYPHONIC SYNTH NOODLING:
03:50 - Rhodes Chroma
03:55 - DK Syngery
04:10 - Korg Mono/Poly
04:37 - Roland Jupiter 6
05:07 - Sequential Circuits Prophet T8

05:42 - Conclusion"

Prophet Rev2 Soundset VCM ++ Volume 2 Patches

video upload by Creative Spiral

Patch list below.

"VCM ++ Volume 2 is here! This sound set takes advantage of the latest O.S. update for Prophet Rev2, with tons of new Vintage Voice Modeling Sounds, Binaural Stereo Stacks and Advanced Motion Patches. Available on Sellfy here:

VINTAGE VOICE COMPONENT MODELING (VCM)
A few years back I did a bunch of research and analysis on vintage synths from the 1970s through 2000s, to understand what gives classic/vintage synths their lush character and organic warmth. I published info on my findings at http://www.VoiceComponentModeling.com, and released a patch bank for the Prophet Rev 2 (as well as other soundsets for other synths in the past few years). This new soundset (VCM ++ Volume 2) is the latest release, harnessing the techniques I've been working on the past few years.

LATEST O.S. for PROPHET REV2
This sound set takes advantage of the latest Prophet Rev2 firmware released a few months ago, which fixed some issues with the Gated Sequencer Key Stepping, along with several other minor bugs. This O.S. (1.1.5.9.9) is the latest stable release, and highly recommended for usage with these patches. They would technically work with previous O.S. versions, but not sound as good. Go get the latest O.S. for free on the official Sequential Rev2 forum. Note: It's technically a beta, but with Seq, their Betas are the same as release versions after they've been out a few months. They are the most stable, bug free versions.

NEW CAPABILITIES WITH UPDATED O.S.
Now that the Key Stepping of the Gated Sequencer works fully on stacked patches, there are some new capabilities that the Prophet Rev2 has.

Firstly, it can now pull off stacked/layered patches with Vintage Voice Modeling on both layers, with correct voice stepping. This allows for huge sounding vintage stacks, emulating double tracked or binaural stereo sounds, with tons of organic, vintage character through per voice modeling (VCM).

Second, the excellent gated sequencer / modulation sequencer can now be used in key stepping mode for stacked/layered patches. This provides the Rev2 with incredible syncopated motion capabilities, unmatched by virtually any other synth on the market. By combining two layers of Arpeggio motion, with strategically planned Osc Frequency Modulations, Cutoff jumps and other modulations, you can create incredibly rich animated motion that can be played up and down the keybed in any key. The resulting patterns that are created are extremely unique, and by targeting octaves, perfect fifths, and perfect fourths, along with staggered timing/reset points, you can create semi-procedural, intelligent melodies and multi osc harmonies that respond to your playing.

Third, the above two capabilities unlocked with the latest O.S. can be mixed/matched. For example, there are many patches in the soundset and demo, which have a pad, brass or string sound with vintage voice modeling on one layer, combined with an advanced motion arp on the second layer, for rich motion patches, with a fundamental organic, vintage style based underneath.

0:00 PAD-S Pulsimatic VCM
1:11 SPL ZepInTheLight VCM * Led Zeppelin
2:25 PAD Cars Drive VCM * The Cars
2:35 KEY Cars Drive Pluck VCM * The Cars
3:12 ARP PAD HorizonGlow VCM
4:22 KEY EP Everything3 VCM * Radiohead

CLICK FOR MORE »

Oli Freke Announces Two New Synthesizer Books

Oli Freke, author of Synthesizer Evolution, has announced two new books in the series, "Vintage Synths" & "Drum Machines and Samplers".

Details on each follow.

Oli Freke, ‘Vintage Synths’

Following on from his 2021 book, Synthesizer Evolution: From Analogue to Digital (and Back), Oli Freke returns with a Synthesizer Evolution A6 zine series.

The invention of the synthesizer in the 1960s changed musical culture and music production forever, giving musicians whole new worlds of sound to play with. Vintage Synths celebrates that invention and its subsequent history by picking out 46 of the most influential, important or most interesting synths from 1939 – 1998. They each represent the introduction of a new technology, had particular impact, or maybe even formed the basis of entirely new genres.

Explore the most legendary synthesizers ever created, including the Minimoog, ARP 2600, Yamaha DX7, Roland Jupiter 8 and more, with detailed descriptions and the stories behind their development.

Buy from Velocity Press. £4, Shipping Internationally.

Oli Freke, ‘Drum Machines and Samplers’

Drum machines and samplers have something of a shared history and this zine celebrates their invention by picking out 46 of the most influential, important or most interesting from 1949 – 1996. Explore the most legendary drum machines and samplers ever created, including the Roland TR-808, Roland TR-909, Akai S1000, Fairlight CMI, Akai MPC60 and more, with detailed descriptions and the stories behind their development.

Buy from Velocity Press. £4, Shipping Internationally

Vintage Synth Patches

Published on Sep 14, 2019 Vintage Synth Patches

Playlist:

1. Processed Vintage Drum Machines Loops Volume 1

Download here: https://payhip.com/b/j1bF

40% off with code: OR6BY6AU1G Expires: Sep 20th 2019

250 minimal techno loops ready to use in your productions.

Style: Techno/Minimal/Vintage
Category: Loops
Pack size: 280 MB
Format: 24 bit/44KHz wav files

Sample pack content:
60 kicks loops
20 snares loops
130 top loops (no kick)
40 demo loops

Loops are based on classic and rare vintage drum machines including Ace Tone, Boss, Casio, Eko, Emu, Ensoniq, Keio, Korg, Solton, Electro Harmonix, Vermona and Roland machines. They have been carefully processed through a bunch of effects for a modern minimal techno sound.

Enjoy making music!

2. Moog Sub Phatty Vintage Soundset

230 custom analog vintage patches for the Moog Sub Phatty.

Inspired by the old classic vintage analog synths like Moogs, Roland SH09, SH101, Sequential Pro-One, Korg MS20, etc.

All sounds are recorded without any external fx or mastering. Just pure Moog Sub Phatty into the audio Interface and DAW.

Download here: https://payhip.com/b/gAt7

The patches are provided as one rar file containing 230 sysex files.

By purchasing this soundset you get the right to use these sounds in your music. Sharing, reselling, making sample packs, including them in commercial patch collections, etc. is not allowed.

Enjoy making music!

3. BASS STATION 2 Analog Soundpack

100 custom analog classics patches for the Novation Bass Station II.

Inspired by the old classic vintage analog synths like Moogs, Roland SH09, SH101, Sequential Pro-One, Korg MS20, etc.

All sounds are recorded without any external fx or mastering. Just pure Bass Station II into the audio Interface and DAW.

Download here: https://payhip.com/b/v72C

The patches are provided as one sysex file.

By purchasing this soundset you get the right to use these sounds in your music. Sharing, reselling, making sample packs, including them in commercial patch collections, etc. is not allowed.

Enjoy making music!

4. Korg Prologue Vintage Soundset

120 custom vintage classic patches for the Korg Prologue.

Inspired by the old classic vintage analog synths like Roland Junos & Jupiters, Sequential Prophet 5 & Pro-One, Oberheims, Korg Polysix & Mono/Poly, Solina, Crumar, PPG, etc.

All sounds are recorded without any external fx or mastering. Just pure Prologue into the audio Interface and DAW.

Download here: https://payhip.com/b/zx2A

The patches are provided as one PRLGLIB file to be used with the Korg Prologue Sound Librarian.

Please note it will overwrite all original Patches so backup your data first or use
the Korg librairian tool !!

By purchasing this soundset you get the right to use these sounds in your music. Sharing, reselling, making sample packs, including them in commercial patch collections, etc. is not allowed.

Enjoy making music!

Synths for Silly Prices?

Posted by Ivan on AH:
"I've seen quite a few comments here regarding people selling synths for silly prices. My mildy warm mini-rant follows:

Regarding high-end dealers like Mini and others - They provide a service selling vintage but good condition product that has been refurbished. I've done this type of work, and it is very time consuming. Their reputation will determine their market value to a large extent. If something is priced ridiculously and doesn't sell, then the price has to come down to a point where it does sell. If the repair work is done poorly, the value will be less. Yes, it might be purchased by someone with more money than brains, but that in itself determines the market value for that product at that time. I have a local guitar dealer that specializes in vintage guitars. They get insanely high prices for guitars but they are known for having quality product. And people are willing to pay for it. Thus a free market system where they price product based on what the customer will pay.

I've found deals on old gear and have fixed it up and sold it in the past. I sold it for top dollar. But considering the time invested I wasn't making a huge profit. I've also recently sold 'fixer uppers' for no profit and because I felt they were going to a good home. But if I can I try to make as much money on a deal as possible. It would be nice to help out people who can't afford vintage gear, but I am in no position to be a benefactor for less fortunate synth lovers. So this idea of profiteering, as some have put it, is pretty silly in my opinion. If and when I sell my house I will be trying to get top dollar for it as well. Is that profiteering? Last time I checked it was known as how to stay afloat and actually afford to keep a roof over my head. I don't want 30 years of mortgage payments, and I don't want bank loans to fund new gear purchases. Unfortunately I don't have time anymore to do much gear fixing up and selling. But when I do have that time again I intend to sell items for what I can get. If someone else wants to start a synth charity business then that is great. If I become independently wealthy I'll consider a home for wayward synthesists and donate vintage synths like some people loan out their Stradivarius. But until then, it is good old fashioned work and the resultant profit for me.

My final point is that nobody is getting rich in this business. I'm VERY glad that people like Paul Schreiber and Ken Macbeth decided to go into business and provide us with great products. Neither of them are likely to hit the Forbes list any time soon. And the same applies to Mini, or Shawn Cleary, or any of the other synth-sellers out there. If they can't sell products then they don't make money, and they don't survive as a business. It's just that simple. So complain if you want, but don't expect for people to give away gear in the name of our art. There are enough people self-righteously ripping off software and getting something for nothing. If you want a deal on vintage synths, learn how to fix gear and then cruise pawn shops, garage sales, and Craigslist. Otherwise be prepared to pay market value just like the rest of us poor afflicted gear addicts.

Ivan"

Happy New Year!

Happy New Year everyone!!!  I hope 2012 treated you well and I wish you the best in 2013!

As I do each year, I thought I'd reflect a little on the past year.  These posts are always difficult to write, and I always wing them, so bear with me.  It's impossible to justify a whole year's worth of synth coverage in a single post.  The following is just a small bit of what comes to mind when looking back.  You'll find a top ten list of posts with the most page views followed by my picks for the year further below.  Apologies if I miss anything, and of course, if you have anything to add, feel free to leave a comment below.  I'm curious what you, the readers of the site, felt stood out in the world of synths this past year.

First, I want to begin this post with a HUGE THANK YOU!!!  If you are reading this it obviously means you have come to this site and some of you have been coming here for years! Thank you for sticking with me. This site is a journey I hope to continue for years to come. Thank you to everyone that has taken the time to showcase their synths, and thank you to those that share what they find! Thank you to those that link to the site and help spread the word on MATRIXSYNTH via Twitter, Facebook, Google+ and your own websites! And of course, THANK YOU to all the sponsors on the right who believe in the site enough to support it!

A nod to previous New Years posts, pictured to the left is the MATRIXSYNTH world domination map. :)  I always think it's worth taking a look at who's watching the site.  Synths are global and you are looking at a map of the readers of MATRIXSYNTH.  Everything you see in green represents a visit from that country.  The darker the green, the higher the number of visits.  This is just for the year, but for the life of the site, we still haven't gotten a single hit from North Korea!   I don't know what they have against synths!  ;)   You'll find the top 10 visits by country further below.

This is the eighth New Year the site has gone through!  The focus for the site this year has been the same as previous years, and I plan to keep it that way.  This site is about showcasing specific synths, not just synths in general, and not just news and press releases.  The focus is on the individual synths that have existed throughout history, the technology behind them, and the lives they lead with their odd owners, myself included.  :)  Yes it is about the gear, their makers, and their players.  It has always been my opinion that synths in general have a tendency to be undervalued. Compared to say collectible guitars, they are often discarded and devalued in favor of next year's model, next year's technology.  It has always been my opinion that every synth has something of value to offer,  something specific and something unique that gives it its character. I built this site to showcase that.  This site is about the history of synths as their history unfolds - videos and images of synths being played and used, by both those that make them and those that play them.  Vintage synths being offered in the second hand market, being exchanged from one sonic explorer to the next. It really is a wondrous thing. Think of the magic synthesizers bring into your world. That is what this site is ultimately about.  Some posts may not seem to make sense now, but they will in time, because they will be a look back in time. A day in the life of a particular synthesizer.  I love analog and I love digital. I love all synths and this site celebrates that.

And now for a little reflection on the year. This year we had a total of 16678 posts including this one.  That comes out to roughly 45.69 posts a day.  Not a single day of the year went without a post.  So what dominated the synth year?  Mobile, modulars and a few dedicated hardware synths.

CLICK FOR MORE »

The Roland Jupiter-X & XM Story and Why Roland Has No Plans for a New JUPITER-8

I don't like to critique but I thought the following was a little funny (also see my note on Behringer below):

"We are very aware of the very strong passion that synth fans have for the JUPITER-8, and some continue to wait for us to introduce a true analog version. This is something we do not plan to do. Our founder Mr. Kakehashi always said, 'Never chase a ghost', and I really understand his meaning. 'Chasing the ghost' of the original JUPITER-8 or TR-808 does not make sense as we will never catch them, and this effort would not align with our vision for the future. Roland has developed many legendary products throughout our history that came from our drive to always design the future by applying the latest technology and our unique know-how from each era. This is our DNA which will never change."

Preceded by:

"Different from the base Virtual Analog of ZEN-Core, the ABM-powered 'Model Bank' synths in the JUPITER-X and Xm reproduce the total character of specific vintage synths including the JUPITER-8, JUNO-106, JX-8P, and SH-101, all with incredible precision. For these synths, we did deep behavioral analysis of elements such as the filter’s curve, range, and response speed, which are different for each model, of course. We even recreate characteristics including oscillator drift driven by temperature changes- we actually put a physical temperature sensor inside the JUPITER-X and Xm to help with this!"

The above is quoted from The Roland Jupiter-X & XM Story posted on Roland's site. There's more to the post, of course, so do check it out, but what I thought was a little funny was the 'Never chase a ghost' quote. They are clearly doing just that, only in the digital realm, not analog. But... they have ventured in analog with the JD-Xa and JD-Xi. Do I think Roland should clone the Jupiter-8 and their vintage analog? No. For one reason: Behringer. Behringer would just put them under with cheaper models, so if I were Roland, I wouldn't bother. I'm guessing the digital clones are more cost effective as well. I'd stay focused on new products just like they are doing now.  Seriously, Behringer has made it so no company will ever bother cloning their previous products.  I heard that Behringer's goal is to not only offer clones of vintage synths, but to become the largest synth manufacturer for both vintage and new designs.  Simply put, the only way to compete will be to create gear that users want and Behringer does not offer for less.

Rob Rosen Reveals His Ultimate Synth Collection

video upload by Anthony Marinelli Music

A look inside the Yamaha CS80, the 14th ever made Sequential Prophet-5, a Rev 1, and a Roland Juno-106, touching on some of the evolution of analog synthesis technology over the years.

"I hope you enjoy this rare opportunity to visit with my close friend Rob Rosen for a deep dive into his ultimate vintage synth collection. Together, we’ll see inside some of the rarest synthesizers of all-time and learn from this master technician how synthesizers have evolved, what makes them tick and why synthesizers make such cool sounds!

I consider Rob’s shop @Rosen Sound ground zero for anything relating to synthesizers. It’s also the biggest wonderland of vintage synths in perfect working order that you’ll ever see .

Rob is a self-taught technician and is now the world leader for repair, restoration, custom manufacturing and sales of vintage synthesizers. He’s also quite an accomplished musician programmer and keyboard player as well."

Chapter Time Stamps:
00:00:01 Intro Anthony on the street in Burbank, CA
00:01:55 Entering Inside Rosen Sound
00:02:06 Meeting “P” from Chromeo and The Rosen Sound Team
00:03:06 Rob shows us his personal work space
00:11:42 Montage of Synths - Start
00:12:35 Montage of Synths - End
00:12:36 Anthony and Rob in “The Cabin” - a wonderland of vintage synths
00:13:42 Anthony explains and demonstrates features on the CS-80
00:20:36 CS-80 “Under the Hood” in-depth tour by Rob
00:53:31 Prophet 5 “Under the Hood” in-depth tour by Rob
01:12:50 Anthony Demonstrates some of the Juno 106 sounds
01:19:27 Juno-106 “Under the Hood” in-depth tour by Rob
01:28:54 One-of-a-Kind Oberheim Modular 8 Voice System tour by Rob
01:35:31 Anthony asks Rob 20 Questions about Synthesizers
01:39:09 Rob asks Anthony some Questions about Synthesizers
01:49:47 Bass Shootout: 1973 Moog System 55 VS ARP 2600
01:54:54 Shoot Out Conclusion and Bass Tips

New Polivoks Pro Videos by martinjazz78

Published on Aug 3, 2017 martinjazz78

Playlist:

1. Polivoks Pro (reissue of legendary Soviet synth) solo sequence - Rusko je stav duše

"For your maximum enjoyment, please use good headphones or good speakers with subwoofer(s).

Polivoks Pro is a reissue of legendary Soviet synth from 1980s that's been approved by the one and only Vladimir Kuzmin designer of the original Polivoks. No matter which century we are currently in, the Russia has always been a state of mind. As much as I hate Putin and everything he represents, I also deeply love and admire Russian arts and culture, Russian modus vivendi and sounds coming from Russia. Please check also the fabulous documentary on Russian synths and synth scene called Electro Moskva by Elena Tikhonova & Dominik Spritzendorfer.

This video is part of my longer dawless synth jam. It's a longer moment when there was no other synth playing except of the Polivoks Pro, although at the very beginning you may also hear a little bit of Sem Pro by Tom Oberheim.

The Polivoks is sequenced by Cirklon hardware sequencer, various parameters are tweaked in real time almost always bringing rather surprising and interesting results. Polivoks is processed through vintage tape Roland Space Echo for delay and Strymon Big Sky for reverb. It was recorded live in one take only, stereo output from my Motu interface into Ableton Live. Camera is GoPro Hero 4 Black, video was edited in Final Cut."

2. Polivoks Pro and Tom Oberheim's Sem Pro sequencing #1

"Excerpt from my dawless synth jam with two modern reissues of two classic synths. Tom Oberheim's Sem Pro playing bass ostinato with random high notes and Polivoks Pro doing its screeching sounds or as my girlfriend says: crying about Russia ;). Both synths are controlled by Cirklon hardware sequencer via midi and processed through vintage tape Roland Space Echo for delay and Strymon Big Sky for delay.

Recorded live, stereo output from my Motu interface into Ableton Live, camera was GoPro Hero in my right hand, video was edited in Final Cut.

I had so much fun during this jam :D"

3. Polivoks Pro and Tom Oberheim's Sem Pro Sequencing #2

"Another and this time shorter excerpt from my dawless synth jam with two modern reissues of two classic synths. Tom Oberheim's Sem Pro playing bass ostinato with random high notes and Polivoks Pro doing its screeching sounds or as my girlfriend says: crying about Russia ;). Negative envelope is applied on Oberheim's filter and you may also see some rather drastic changes to LFO settings and destinations on the Polivoks.

Both synths are controlled by Cirklon hardware sequencer via midi and processed through vintage tape Roland Space Echo for delay and Strymon Big Sky for delay.

Recorded live, stereo output from my Motu interface into Ableton Live, camera was GoPro Hero in my right hand, video was edited in Final Cut.

I had so much fun during this jam :D"

4. Polivoks Pro and Tom Oberheim's Sem Pro Sequencing - Complete Session

"This was my first encounter with Polivoks Pro - reissue of legendary Soviet synth. Just by accident there was another modern reissue of classic synthesizer - Tom Oberheim's Sem Pro - on the table next to the Polivoks, so I started to jam with both them. For the first three and half minutes you here Polivoks only, then Oberheim kicks in and both synths play together for about 8 minutes, last 7 minutes of the video is solo Polivoks again.

Both synths are controlled by analogue hardware sequencer Cirklon via midi. Polivoks' sequence is 100% random until the last one or two minutes, when it gets certain regularities. Low notes on Oberheim is a regular sequence in so called "pendulum" mode, several random parameters are applied to high notes played by Oberheim, though.

Both synths are processed through vintage tape Roland Space Echo for delay and Strymon Big Sky for delay.

Recorded live, stereo output from my Motu interface into Ableton Live aka dawless synth jam, camera was GoPro Hero in my right hand, video was edited in Final Cut.

I had so much fun during this jam :D"

VINTAGE SYNTHESIZER MUSEUM STUDIO TOUR

Published on May 26, 2017 once upon a synth

"I went to visit the Vintage Synthesizer Museum in Oakland and recorded a little tour. It's called a museum but you can rent it out and play with the gear. They have an impressive collection of rare vintage synths and effects. In this video I'll show you the studio. In future videos I will be posting demos of some of the synths I've recorded while there.

http://www.vintagesynthmuseum.com

~~~ THEIR COLLECTION ~~~
Vintage Synths:
Moog: Minimoog Model D / Taurus I
EMS: Synthi AKS / Vocoder 2000
ARP: 2600 w/3620 / 1613 Sequencer / Odyssey MkII / Rhodes Chroma
Sequential Circuits: Prophet 5 / Prophet T8 / Pro-One
Oberheim: 4-Voice / OB-Xa / Xpander
Roland: Jupiter 8 / Jupiter 6 / Jupiter 4 / Juno 6 / Juno 106 / SH-101 / TR-808 / TR-909 / RS-505
Korg: MS-50 / MS-20 / MS-10 / SQ-10 / VC-10 / Mono/Poly / Univox MaxiKorg / PS-3100
Yamaha: CS-70m / CS-60 / CS-20m
EML: Electro-Comp 101 / Electro-Comp 200
Steiner Parker: Synthacon
Gleeman: Pentaphonic Clear
Crumar: Spirit
Octave: Cat MkI
Oxford: OSCar
PAiA: Proteus
Fairlight
DK Synergy

Modern Synths:

CLICK FOR MORE »

Russian Vintage Analog Synths

Vintage Synth Explorer has a post on some Russian Synths for sale. The following two sites have a ton on information on Russian vintage synths including the popular Polivoks pictured below and the Altair-231 three OSC monosynth described as the Russian Minimoog. It's fascinating as you don't often see discussion of them on the synth boards or lists.

Two great sites on Vintage Analog Russian Synths:

• Russkeys
• Geocities Russian Vintage Synthesizers

Polyvoks from Geocities Russian Vintage Synthesizers:

Happy New Year From MATRIXSYNTH! - A Look Back at 2014

Happy New Year everyone!

I want to start by thanking everyone that comes to MATRIXSYNTH and helps make it what it is - the readers, the supporters, and of course all the sponsors on the right.

THANK YOU and have a GREAT 2015!!!

This site is a labor of love and a ton of work. This site is ultimately meant to be an testament to everything synth in the making. We have over nine years of daily synth history captured here, 119,983 published posts. I can't wait to see what the future brings us in 2015!

That said, here are a few interesting bits from 2014 in the longest post of the year. ;)

CLICK FOR MORE »

Vintage synths with reliability issues

Sequence 15 has a good post up on synths with known issues including the Roland Juno-106, Ensoniq Fizmo, the Chroma Polaris and the KORG Polysix.

"Everyone who plays or collects vintage synths knows that it's a labor of love. Some are difficult to keep in tune; some contain parts that are hard to find replacements for, and some are just cranky and unpredictable. However, there are a few synths with known failure mechanisms to watch out for. The shame of it is, all of these are well-regarded for their sounds and playability. Still, there are things that owners and potential buyers should be aware of. Here's a guide to these problematic synths."

Click here for the full post.