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: links to listings 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.

Starsky Carr's Studio: Vintage & Modern Synth Setup Explained

video upload by Starsky Carr

"Welcome to a full synth studio tour — a look inside my hardware setup featuring vintage analog synths, modern wavetable instruments, modular gear and classic drum machines.

See how a mix of vintage synths, modern instruments, modular gear and drum machines all come together in one integrated setup. In this video I walk through the studio, explain how everything is connected, and show some of the instruments that regularly appear on the channel.

The studio is constantly evolving as new synths arrive, others get repaired, and different setups are tested for videos. In this walkthrough you'll see how classic gear like the Juno-60, Prophet series, Minimoog, TR-808, TR-909 and Jupiter synths sit alongside modern instruments such as the UDO Super 8, Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave, Waldorf M, Arturia PolyBrute and Roland System-8.

I also explain how everything is routed through the studio — from CV-controlled vintage synths integrated with MIDI, to the AudioFuse interface and Neve summing mixer that handle the audio side of things.

If you've ever wondered how to organise a hardware synth studio, integrate vintage CV instruments with modern DAWs, or just want to see a room full of iconic synths and drum machines, this video gives you a behind-the-scenes look at the setup behind the channel.

You’ll also hear a few stories along the way — including the slightly ridiculous “six degrees of separation” link from my studio gear to Charlize Theron and Kevin Bacon through the Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels soundtrack.

Whether you're into analog synthesis, wavetable synths, modular gear, or classic drum machines, this studio tour is packed with gear, ideas and inspiration.

Gear featured (selection)

• Roland Juno-60
• Roland Jupiter series
• Moog Minimoog, Voyager % Sub37
• Sequential Prophet synths
• Oberheim OBX8 and OB6
• UDO Super 8
• Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave
• Waldorf M
• Arturia PolyBrute
• Roland System-8
• TR-808 / TR-909 drum machines
• Analog Solutions Leipzig & Fusebox
• Modular & Eurorack gear"

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: links to listings 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 »

UVI Introduces Vintage Vault 5 & Vintage Casio Legacy

video uploads by UVI



Playlist:
1. UVI Vintage Vault 5 | Trailer
2. UVI Vintage Vault 5 | Showcase
3. UVI Vintage Casio Legacy | Showcase
4. UVI Vintage Casio Legacy | Overview

"Vintage Vault 5 - The Ultimate Vintage Synth Collection
https://www.uvi.net/vintage-vault-5

Discover a living collection of synthesis drawn exclusively from real hardware bringing together 43 UVI instruments spanning five decades of electronic sound, from the warm, evolving textures of early polyphonic analog synths, to the crisp digital voices that defined the '80s and '90s, to the obscure prototypes and cult machines that quietly shaped entire genres, this collection captures the true sound of the hardware that defined modern music.

Also included in SonicPass ➡️ https://www.uvi.net/sonicpass

Video credits: Anthony Hak
Music credits: Harel Tsemah"

"Vintage CASIO Legacy - Legends of Digital Instrument
https://www.uvi.net/vintage-casio-legacy

A premium collection built to honor a generation of iconic instruments, while unlocking their full potential in a modern workflow. With six classics, a Multi groove engine, deep editing, and a huge preset library, it’s a uniquely CASIO sound world for today’s producers, composers, and sound designers.

Also included in the new Vintage Vault 5 ➡️ https://www.uvi.net/vintage-vault-5
Also included in SonicPass ➡️ https://www.uvi.net/sonicpass"

UVI Vintage Vault 5 - FIRST LOOK and Synth Demo!

video upload by MATTHS

"Massive demo of several of the new synths inside of UVI's Vintage Vault 5."

https://www.matthsmatthsmatths.com

UVI Vintage Vault 5 | No Talking | ‪@UVIofficial‬

video upload by DKS SYNTH LAB

"Welcome to DKS Synth Lab! In this video, we explore UVI Vintage Vault 5 with some of the new instruments included in the collection!

Video recorded in collaboration with ‪@UVIofficial‬"

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 »

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 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!

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

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 »

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 »

UVI Vintage Vault 3 - The Ultimative Vintage Synthesizer Collection with 65 instruments

Published on Jan 10, 2020 RetroSound

"VINTAGE VAULT 3

I think many of you guys know that I work since many years together with #UVI.
So I have sampled most of my #Vintage #Synths for UVI products like OB Legacy, String Machines 2, Synth Anthology 2 and more.

Now here is the brand new Vintage Vault 3 with 65 vintage instruments and over 500.000 high quality samples.
As synth maniac since a very long time I must that high quality samples are more realistic as virtual synthesis.
All the vintage synths I show in the video and a lot more are included in Vintage Vault3.

Check the new Vintage Vault 3 by UVI: http://bit.ly/retrosound-uvi"

UVI Announces Vintage Legends Featuring 6 Iconic Vintage Synthesizers

Vintage Legends | Official trailer UVI©

Published on Dec 20, 2012 by UVIofficial

Follow-up to: UVI Teases Virtual Kurzweil K250, Yamaha CS-M Series, & Rhodes Chroma




"Six brand-new soft synths with the brilliant depth and character of classic hardware. Instantly call up inspiration from : the Yamaha CS-70M, CS-40M and CS-20M, the crazy Italian Elka Synthex, the Rhodes Chroma, the king of FM - the Yamaha DX1, the rare DK Synergy and the classic K250 revisited.

From modern prog and pop to dance, electro, hip-hop and experimental, Vintage Legends is a deep and versatile sonic resource that's sure to inspire artists working in any style.


Special introductory price : $299 instead of $349

❐ UVI Official Website : http://www.uvi.net
❐ Buy Vintage Legends : http://bit.ly/uvi_vintage-legends

Take 6 iconic vintage synthesizers, carefully restore them, create a massive array of presets and deeply multi-sample them, professionally process and master the sounds, infuse them into the industry proven UVI Engine -- giving you endless sound shaping options, then wrap the results in immaculately prepared GUIs and you've got UVI Vintage Legends.

At UVI we've been producing sound for over 20 years and designing our own software for over 12.

We've found that virtual instruments with a foundation in sampling have a more defined character and distinct sound quality than those based on digital modeling. The trouble with sample-based instruments is that they're typically lacking in expression and flexibility; one sample, one sound.

UVI hybrid instruments are more flexible than a conventional ROMpler and more authentic than a simulation, giving you the best of both worlds. Vintage Legends integrates over 30,000 samples from classic synths into the acclaimed UVI Engine, giving you the distinct character of hardware with the added control, convenience and power of a modern digital instrument.

Taking these classic tones into new sonic territory, the UVI Engine delivers massive unison spreads, abundant polyphony, thick-modeled filters, drive, reverbs, modulation, FX and much, much more. These instruments will never need to be serviced or go out of tune, and they're far easier to lug around than hardware.

SIX POWERFUL VINTAGE MACHINES REVISITED

Vintage Legends comes packed with over 800 presets expertly crafted by our sound design team, giving you a huge library of unique sounds and textures.

Each instrument features an intuitive and evocative GUI with a versatile and easy-to-navigate control set helping you to quickly shape sounds to fit your needs, transform them for wild inspiration or crack open the unit and design your own.

Timeless sounds. Infinitely customizable. Compatible with everything.

◆ UVI CS-M - Vintage Japanese Power
◆ UVI SYNTHOX - The Real Italian Stallion
◆ UVI KROMA - Premier Analog Synth
◆ UVI FMX1 - The Gem of FM
◆ UVI U1250 - Dawn of the ROM Age
◆ UVI ENERGY - Additive Fury (bonus only available in Vintage Legends)

CS-M, SYNTHOX, KROMA, FMX1 and U1250 are available as individual instruments for $99 each.

More info & screenshots : http://bit.ly/uvi_vintage-legends

COMPATIBILITY

With the free UVI Workstation 2.0.8 (required version), UVI Vintage Legends can work:
• as a stand-alone instrument, compatible with Mac & PC
• as a VST, AudioUnit, RTAS and MAS plug-in.

With MachFive 3 - make the most of all editing features included!

* Yamaha, Elka, ARP, Rhodes, Kurzweil, D.K, CS70M, CS40M, CS20M, DX1, Synthex, Chroma, K250, K1000 and Synergy are trademarks of their respective owners and are not affiliated, endorsed, connected or sponsored in any way to UVI or any of our affiliate sites; therefore do not be confused between UVI and these brands.

** iLok required."

CLICK FOR MORE »

S U R V I V E Explores Four Vintage Synths | Reverb Soundcheck

Published on Feb 9, 2017 Reverb.com

"The throwback music of hit Netflix series 'Stranger Things' was the brainchild of Kyle Dixon and Michael Stein of S U R V I V E. To create brooding atmosphere, the two used a selection of vintage and modern synthesizers and drum machines to craft John Carpenter-esque synth soundscapes. In this video, S U R V I V E explores four vintage synths at Reverb's Justin Delay's studio: the Sequential Circuits Prophet-5, the Roland Juno-6, the Korg Mono/Poly and the Roland TR-707 drum machine.

Read more about S U R V I V E & these vintage synths"

http://reverb.com

How do you feel about modifying vintage synths?

video upload by Soundgas

"How do you feel about modifying vintage synths?

Just got my EMS Synthi AKS back from a thorough overhaul and with a stack of mods added (it’d already had some historic and less than pretty ones installed).

People often ask whether modifying a synth like this affects value. While there’s no denying it can feel sacrilegious when you’re talking about an exceptionally well preserved example, I am 100% for anything that means old gear will get used more.

One of the worst things you can do with old gear is put it on a shelf and not use it. We regularly get contacted by collectors (or people who no longer use their now valuable vintage synths) expecting top prices for their precious instruments which come ‘serviced’ and ‘working perfectly - last time I used it’. A little digging usually reveals this to have been a decade or more ago and the service work is ancient history.

So if modding that classic synth means you’ll play it more and enjoy it, that to me is a no brainer.

I understand that this puts us at odds with many vintage synth collectors, but the majority of our customers - who want to use them (shock horror) for making music - seem to agree.

What do you think? Modify old gear or not?"