How Synthesizers Changed Music History

video upload by Andy Whitmore

"🎛️ The History of Synthesizers
From the massive Telharmonium of 1901 to today’s sleek soft synths, this video takes you through 150 years of electronic music innovation. Learn how electricity first made sound, how Moog and Buchla shaped the synth revolution, how digital FM and sampling changed everything in the '80s, and how modern VSTs like Serum and Omnisphere continue the legacy.
Along the way, you'll meet legends like Robert Moog, Don Buchla, Wendy Carlos, and Dave Smith—and discover the instruments that changed the sound of pop, rock, hip-hop, EDM, and film forever.
🧠 Whether you're a synth nerd or just curious how your favourite sounds came to be, this video is your complete crash course."

Timestamps
0:00 – Intro
0:14 – Overview
0:47 – The Origins of the Electronic Sound
0:59 – Telharmonium
1:46 – Vacuum Tubes
1:54 – Ondes Martenot
2:10 – RCA Mark II
2:40 – The Moog Revolution
2:58 – Theremin
3:10 – Moog Modular
3:58 – East vs West: Moog and Buchla
4:53 – The First Synth Records
5:24 – Minimoog Model D
6:27 – EMS VCS3
8:14 – The Polyphonic Breakthrough
9:22 – Yamaha CS-80
10:12 – Digital Takes Over: FM Synthesis and Sampling
10:32 – Yamaha TX816
11:54 – Sampling
12:32 – Akai MPC60
12:43 – Software and the Analog Revival
13:32 – Impact / Outro

YAMAHA CS80 vs XILS-LAB THE EIGHTY | Showdown Revisited, Now Perfected

video upload by Andy Whitmore

Follow-up to this post.

"In this video, I revisit the legendary Yamaha CS80 hardware synth versus the Xils-Lab The Eighty VST emulation for the ultimate sound comparison. After correcting a critical setting on the CS80 (thanks to your feedback!), this revamped video delivers an accurate showdown, highlighting resonance, filter settings, and aftertouch quirks.

🔥 What’s New in This Showdown?
✔️ Corrected settings for the most precise comparison.
✔️ Dry sound demos followed by FX processing.
✔️ Key insights: reversed bank selection, confusing filter controls, and aftertouch behavior.

🎧 Perfect for synth enthusiasts, sound designers, and fans of hardware vs. VST comparisons."

Yamaha CS80 vs Xils-Lab The Eighty: Ultimate Sound Showdown!

video upload by Andy Whitmore

See the follow-up video here.

"In this video, we dive into the ultimate comparison between the legendary Yamaha CS80, the iconic synth behind Blade Runner and countless classics, and the brand-new Xils-Lab The Eighty VST – a cutting-edge emulation of the original. I put these two head-to-head, exploring:

• Raw waveforms and the sound engine
• Ring modulation and pitch bend capabilities
• Dry sounds and FX comparisons
• Iconic licks from Vangelis and Michael Jackson

Whether you're a synth enthusiast or looking for your next VST, this video has you covered. Let’s see if the future of VSTs can truly match the past of analog synths!"

CLICK FOR MORE »

Yamaha CS-80 Programming Guide: Unlock the Legendary Synth

video upload by Andy Whitmore

"Master the Yamaha CS-80 with this in-depth programming guide! Explore filters, ADSR, LFO, aftertouch, ring modulator, chorus, tremolo, and presets to unlock its legendary sound.
Discover the secrets of the iconic Yamaha CS-80 in this comprehensive tutorial. We break down every control, slider, and button to help you understand its powerful features. Learn how to program its legendary filters, ADSR, LFO, aftertouch, ring modulator, brilliance, tremolo, and presets. Whether you own a CS-80 or use one of the famous CS-80 Clones (Arturia, Softube, Cherry Audio GX80), this video is your ultimate guide to this classic synthesiser.

Timestamps
0:00 - Introduction
0:38 - Patch memories: How they work on both sound banks
2:19 - Pulse width and sawtooth waveforms
3:05 - LFO and noise settings in the sound bank
3:27 - High-pass and low-pass filters
4:18 - CS-80 filter and ADSR (Attack, Decay, Sustain, Release)
4:52 - Sub-oscillator and amplifier ADSR
5:38 - Sound Bank 1: Aftertouch features
6:03 - Programming a brass pad sound
6:54 - Aftertouch filter (global controls)
7:13 - Keyboard volume and brilliance controls
8:12 - Global brilliance (cutoff frequency) and resonance
8:49 - Aftertouch modulation
9:03 - Global sustain settings
9:28 - Sub-oscillator (LFO) functionality
10:15 - Ring modulator: Exploring the feature
11:01 - “Doctor Who” intro sound design
11:23 - Ring modulator with four LFOs simultaneously
12:02 - Chorus effect
12:13 - Tremolo effect
12:21 - Glissando and portamento features
13:12 - Programming a bell sound
13:39 - Combining oscillators with the sub-oscillator: Creating brittle yet warm sounds
14:09 - Explanation of the two sound banks
15:03 - Summary and application to CS-80 simulations"

37 Iconic Riffs, One Synth Legend: Vintage vs Reissue Minimoog Battle!

video upload by Andy Whitmore

"Experience the Minimoog like never before! Compare the raw power of the 2016 Reissue vs. 1978 Vintage in 37 iconic riffs, leads, and basslines from legendary tracks. No FX, just pure synth magic!

• A direct comparison between the vintage and re-issue Minimoog Model D.
• The Minimoog Model D's prowess as featured on numerous famous tracks.

Time Stamps
00:00 Harold Faltermeyer Axel F Beverly Hills Cop Main Theme lead 118
00:16 Introduction
0:56 - Gary Numan: "Are 'Friends' Electric?" theme (92 BPM)
1:38 - Michael Jackson: "Rock With You" bass (113 BPM)
2:02 - DEVO: "Smart Patrol/Mr. DNA" effects (136 BPM)
2:34 - Parliament: "Flashlight" bass (108 BPM)
3:04 - Rush: "Tom Sawyer" lead (176 BPM)
3:21 - Stevie Wonder: "I Wish" bass (107 BPM)
3:40 - Madonna: "Borderline" lead (120 BPM)
4:12 - Madonna: "Borderline" bass (120 BPM)
4:30 - Dr. Dre: "Nuthin' But A 'G' Thang" lead (95 BPM)
4:51 - Michael Jackson: "Don’t Stop 'Til You Get Enough" bass (121 BPM)
5:08 - Pink Floyd: "Shine On You Crazy Diamond" lead (136 BPM)
5:40 - Rick Wakeman: "Catherine Of Aragon" bass (104 BPM)
6:19 - Chaka Khan: "We Can Work It Out" bass (115 BPM)
6:40 - Weather Report: "Birdland" bass (158 BPM)
7:05 - Barclay James Harvest: "Victims Of Circumstance" lead (86 BPM)
7:27 - The Alan Parsons Project: "Separate Lives" bass (114 BPM)
7:37 - Europe: "The Final Countdown" lead (119 BPM)
8:02 - Stevie Wonder: "Isn't She Lovely" bass (120 BPM)
8:23 - Stevie Wonder: "That Girl" bass (107 BPM)
8:42 - Michael Jackson: "Workin' Day and Night" bass (131 BPM)
9:00 - Gary Numan: "Are 'Friends' Electric?" lead (92 BPM)
9:24 - Nena: "99 Luftballons" bass (97 BPM)
9:46 - Rush: "Tom Sawyer" FX (176 BPM)
10:06 - ELP: "Lucky Man" lead (161 BPM)
10:18 - Duran Duran: "Save A Prayer" lead (113 BPM)
10:28 - Duran Duran: "Save A Prayer" lead (113 BPM)
10:47 - ABBA: "Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!" lead (121 BPM)
11:05 - ABBA: "Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!" bass (121 BPM)
11:23 - Harold Faltermeyer: "Axel F (Beverly Hills Cop)" lead (118 BPM)
11:40 - Harold Faltermeyer: "Axel F (Beverly Hills Cop)" bass (118 BPM)
11:57 - D Train: "You're The One For Me" bass (122 BPM)
12:13 - D Train: "You're The One For Me" lead (122 BPM)
12:29 - Madonna: "Holiday" lead (118 BPM)
12:46 - Madonna: "Holiday" bass (118 BPM)
13:02 - Queen: "Radio Ga Ga" bass (114 BPM)
13:17 - Howard Jones: "New Song" lead (112 BPM)
13:54 - Howard Jones: "New Song" lead (112 BPM)

The audio is DIRECT, 100% DRY - You are hearing the raw audio as it comes directly from each synthesizer. NO post processing (Effects, EQ, or Dynamics) whatsoever."

Classic Synths Like You’ve NEVER Heard Before! (Mind-Blowing Solos)

video upload by Andy Whitmore

"Step into the world of analog magic with our jaw-dropping video featuring legendary synths and keyboards! Including the lush tones of the Yamaha CS80 & the punchy sounds of the Mini Moog Model D, this video takes you on an exhilarating ride. Each synth & keyboard shines in solos performed alongside a top-tier session band, showcasing climaxes.

We’ve included timeless classics like the Roland Jupiter 8, Oberheim OB-1, Wurlitzer 200A, and even the powerful EMS Synthi AKS VCS3. You’ll see filters pushed to their limits, resonances soaring, and ADSR curves sculpted to perfection. With pitch bends, glides, portamento, and wah-wah in full force, this is a true love letter to vintage keyboards.

Get ready to experience the raw energy of the Fender Rhodes, the groove of the Hohner Clavinet D6, and the elegance of the Steinway Model O Piano. This is more than music – it’s a celebration of sound. Buckle up for an analog synth extravaganza like no other!

00:00 Intro
00:28 Roland Jupiter-8
01:27 Mini Moog Model D (Vintage)
02:35 Roland Jupiter-4
04:25 EMS Synthi AKS VCS3
05:40 Yamaha CS-80
08:10 Yamaha CS-40M
09:34 Roland Jupiter-4
10:39 Roland SH-1000
11:30 Wurlitzer 200A
13:07 Hammond C3
14:54 Steinway Model O Piano
16:30 Roland Jupiter-8
17:37 Oberheim OB-1
18:58 Hohner Clavinet D6
20:10 Fender Rhodes Stage 73 Mk I

CLICK FOR MORE »

65 Must-See Synths & Keyboards: Ultimate Studio Tour

video upload by Andy Whitmore

"Step into the iconic Greystoke Studio in West London, owned by renowned record producer Andy Whitmore! In this exclusive tour, Andy reveals one of the largest analog keyboard collections in the UK, featuring gems like the legendary Jupiter-8 and Yamaha CS80. Discover the studio's rich history of creating chart-topping hits with artists like Boy George, Lemar, and Peter Andre.

This video is Part A of the studio tour, showcasing Andy’s unparalleled synth collection. Stay tuned for Part B, featuring rare keyboards like the Steinway & Hammond, along with his guitar collection.

🔑 Studio Highlights:
• The birthplace of Peter Andre’s #1 hit 'Flava' and Lemar’s triple-platinum album Time to Grow
• Recent projects include Ben Hemsley’s 'Every Little Thing' with over 5M Spotify plays
• Home to iconic TV theme music for ITV Champions League and tracks featured on The Simpsons, Top Gear, and Frasier If you're a synth enthusiast, music producer, or just curious about where the magic happens, this tour is for you!"

CLICK FOR MORE »

video upload by Andy Whitmore

Follow-up to Yamaha CS80 vs Arturia CS-80V vs Cherry Audio GX-80 – Ultimate Sound Comparison!

"In this video, I take you on an unforgettable journey through the sounds of the legendary Yamaha CS80 and its top VST emulations:

Arturia CS80V
Cherry Audio GX80
Softube Model 77

🎵 From the lush Blade Runner string pad to iconic riffs like “I Hear You Now”, “Chariots of Fire”, “Billie Jean”, and more, I compare how these synths stack up in tone, playability, and character.

🔥 Which synth comes out on top?

You’ll hear:

The magic of the Yamaha CS80’s legendary polyphonic aftertouch.
The subtle strengths of each VST clone, from Cherry Audio's sparkling highs to Arturia's deep bass and Softube’s all-around excellence.

💡 BONUS: I’m also showcasing the Kontrol S88 master keyboard, a fantastic tool for replicating the CS80’s expressive power."

00:00 Jon & Vangelis – I Hear You Now Comparison
00:33 Introduction: Yamaha CS80 vs. Arturia CS80V, Cherry Audio GX80, and Softube Model 77
01:05 Blade Runner: Synth Strings
03:11 Yamaha CS80: Polyphonic Aftertouch Explained
03:42 Yamaha CS80: Polyphonic Aftertouch Comparison
04:25 Initial Thoughts on the Synth Comparison
04:41 Jon & Vangelis – I Hear You Now Comparison
06:16 Chariots of Fire: The Brass Lick
07:02 Billie Jean: String Section
08:06 Blade Runner: The Flute Intro
09:14 The Results
09:41 Conclusion
09:50 Kontrol S88 Keyboard
10:06 What’s Next?
10:19 Finale & Other News

Yamaha CS80 vs Arturia CS-80V vs Cherry Audio GX-80 – Ultimate Sound Comparison!

video upload by Andy Whitmore

"Yamaha CS80 vs. Modern Clones: Arturia CS-80V and Cherry GX-80 – Ultimate Sound Comparison!

Join me as I dive deep into the world of the iconic Yamaha CS80 and its modern VST emulations, the Arturia CS-80V and Cherry GX-80. The CS80 is a favorite of mine due to its intuitive design, unmatched keyboard action, and aftertouch. However, its rarity, size, and cost can make it less practical for everyday use.

In this video, I compare these legendary synths to see if the virtual versions can faithfully replicate the unique sound and feel of the real CS80. The video includes various sections such as:

Famous CS80 Riffs - Hear classics like Toto's "Africa," Bruce Springsteen's "Born in the USA," and George Benson's "In Your Eyes" played on all three synths.

Oscillator Breakdown - Detailed exploration of the individual oscillators.

Factory Presets - A look at the original CS80 and emulation presets.

Pitch Bend Slide Bar - A comparison of each synth's pitch bending capabilities.

Programming Bell Sounds - Learn how to craft bell sounds using sine waves and the CS80’s legendary ring modulator.

Raw Sound Analysis - Exclusive segments featuring dry, raw sounds without any effects.

Summary and Verdict - I conclude with a summary of which synth stands out, both as the ultimate synth and best plug-in version.

Don’t forget to subscribe to my channel and leave your thoughts in the comments section!

00:00 Preview
00:38 Intro
01:12 "Superstition" – Stevie Wonder
01:51 "Africa" – Toto
02:24 "Born in the USA" – Bruce Springsteen
03:20 Individual Waveform Comparison Including Filter and Resonance
04:45 Pulse Width, including Modulation, Filter and Resonance
06:30 Dual Channel Waveforms
08:30 Preset Comparison – Brass, Including Aftertouch
09:17 Strings 2 Including Aftertouch
10:05 Pitch Bend Strip
11:00 Programming Bell Sound with Ring Modulator
12:29 "In Your Eyes" – George Benson
13:12 "Superstition" – Stevie Wonder – No FX
13:42 "Africa" – Toto – No FX
13:57 "Born in the USA" – Bruce Springsteen – No FX
14:50 Preset Comparison – Brass – No FX
15:30 Strings – No FX
16:15 Pitch Bend Strip – No FX
17:06 "In Your Eyes" – George Benson – No FX
17:48 Summary
18:00 Thank You"

How to Program Minimoog Synth Sounds: Devo, Floyd, ELP & More

video upload by Andy Whitmore

"Join legendary producer Andy Whitmore in this in-depth, 29-minute tutorial as he programs and plays 37 iconic riffs on the vintage 1978 Minimoog Model D. From the energetic beats of Beverly Hills Cop to the timeless classics of Michael Jackson and Stevie Wonder, all the way to the smooth grooves of Dr. Dre and the rock anthems of Pink Floyd and Madonna, this video is your complete guide to unlocking the raw power of the world's greatest monophonic synth."

Contents:
Artist Title Description BPM
00:00 Introduction
00:10 Gary Numan Are 'Friends' Electric? theme 92
01:19 Michael Jackson Rock With You bass 113
02:00 DEVO Smart Patrol/Mr. DNA effects 136
04:31 Parliament Flashlight bass 108
06:49 Rush Tom Sawyer lead 176
07:30 Stevie Wonder I Wish bass 107
08:20 Madonna Borderline lead 120
09:24 Madonna Borderline bass 120
10:10 Dr Dre Nuthin' But A "G" Thang lead 95
10:43 Michael Jackson Don’t Stop 'Til You Get Enough bass 121
11:25 Pink Floyd Shine On You Crazy Diamond lead 136
12:23 Rick Wakeman Catherine Of Aragon bass 104
13:32 Chaka Khan We Can Work It Out bass 115
14:39 Weather Report Birdland bass 158
15:20 Barclay James Harvest Victims Of Circumstance lead 86
15:56 The Alan Parsons Project Separate Lives bass 114
16:31 Europe The Final Countdown lead 119
17:35 ELP Lucky Man lead 161
18:10 Duran Duran Save A Prayer lead 113
18:33 Duran Duran Save A Prayer lead 113
18:58 ABBA Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! lead 121
19:28 ABBA Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! bass 121
19:53 Harold Faltermeyer Axel F-Beverly Hills Cop lead 118
20:24 Harold Faltermeyer Axel F-Beverly Hills Cop bass 118
20:43 D Train You're The One For Me bass 122
21:18 D Train You're The One For Me bass Resonance 122
21:43 D Train You're The One For Me lead 122
22:22 Madonna Holiday lead 118
22:56 Madonna Holiday bass 118
23:53 Queen Radio Ga Ga bass 114
24:07 Howard Jones New Song lead 112
24:58 Howard Jones New Song lead 112
25:26 Stevie Wonder Isn't She Lovely bass 120
26:08 Stevie Wonder That Girl bass 107
26:19 Michael Jackson Workin' Day and Night bass 131
26:44 Gary Numan Are 'Friends' Electric? lead 92
27:24 Nena 99 Luftballons bass 97
28:03 Rush Tom Sawyer FX 176
28:46 Round up

Battle of the Mono Synths: Top 10 Analog Classics

video upload by Andy Whitmore

"Which is the best Vintage Analog Mono Synth to buy?
Top 10 Vintage Analog Mono Synths: The Ultimate Comparison

Welcome to the ultimate vintage analog Mono Synth showdown!
In this video, we dive deep into the world of classic analog synthesizers, comparing and contrasting the top 10 vintage Mono Synths that have stood the test of time.
Whether you're a seasoned synthesizer enthusiast or a newcomer to the analog realm, join us as we explore the unique features, iconic sounds, and timeless appeal of these musical gems.
From the warm tones of the Moog series to the powerful presence of the EMS Synthi AKS, discover which vintage Mono Synth might be the perfect addition to your setup.
Let the sonic adventure begin!

Time Stamps
0:00 - Intro
0:48 - Studio Electronics SE1X
3:34 - Roland SH1000
5:33 - Oberheim OB-1
7:42 - Arp TTSH 2600 Mini Meanie Arp 2600
9:44 - Yamaha CS40M
11:54 - Moog - Re-issue Mini Moog Model D
13:44 - Arp Odyssey MKIII
16:01 - Roland SH101
18:09 - Moog - Vintage Mini Moog Model D
20:49 - EMS Synthi AKS"

Pink Floyd: "Any Colour You Like" Recreating the VCS3 Solo

video upload by Andy Whitmore

"Recreating Richard Wright's Synthi AKS (VCS3) Solo on Pink Floyd's 'Any Colour You Like'
Experience the magic of Pink Floyd's timeless masterpiece with a modern twist! In this video, Andy Whitmore at Greystoke Studio meticulously recreates Richard Wright's iconic Synthi AKS solo from 'Any Colour You Like' off the legendary 1973 'Dark Side of the Moon' album.

🔮 Video Highlights:
0:00 - Any Colour You Like - Synthi Solo
0:13 - Run
0:28 - Synthi Slide
0:40 - Delay louder than Synth!

The Synthi AKS is often wrongly credited as the EMS VCS3. Journey with us as we decode the intricate sounds and celebrate 'Dark Side of the Moon,' one of the best-selling albums of all time, with over 45 million copies sold worldwide."

Recreating Pink Floyd's 'On the Run' with Synthi AKS | Tribute

video upload by Andy Whitmore

"Welcome to an in-depth musical journey where we recreate the iconic sounds of Pink Floyd's 'On the Run' from their best-selling album, 'Dark Side of the Moon.' Using the legendary EMS Synthi AKS, we bring to life every synth part that made this track a groundbreaking piece of music history.
🎹 Recreated Parts:

0:00 - Sample of video
0:25 - Intro
0:42 - The main VCS3 synth sequence
1:07 - Introduce Resonance Melody
2:04 - Different waveforms
2:28 - Dramatic gated white noise sounds
3:01 - Gated Noise plus Resonance
3:18 - Noise plus Main sequence line
4:05 - Spring Reverb
5:35 - Summary
5:49 - Bass drone at the song beginning
6:05 - Noise FX
6:28 - Bass Attack
7:18 - Full 'On the Run' sequence

On the album cover, the Synthi AKS is wrongly credited as the VCS3, which is essentially the same synth—the difference lies in the box and the name.

📖 History of 'On the Run': 'On the Run' is a progressive instrumental track created by Roger Waters and David Gilmour. Known for its pioneering use of synthesizers, it's a testament to the innovative spirit of Pink Floyd. The track plays a crucial role in the album’s concept, evoking themes of travel and existential anxiety.

🔦 History of the Synthi AKS: The EMS Synthi AKS is a compact, portable synthesizer, first released in 1972. Famous for its distinctive sounds, it was used extensively throughout the 1970s by various artists. It’s known for its patch pin matrix and portability, making it a favorite for musicians looking for both creativity and convenience in their synthesizers."

Any Colour You Like (Dark Side of the Moon) Pink Floyd: Synthi AKS

video upload by Andy Whitmore

"The Mind-Blowing EMS VCS3 part in Pink Floyd's Any Colour You Like.
S1: Ep1
Demo of the Synthi AKS solo from 'Any Colour You Like' from the legendary 'Dark Side of the Moon' Album - explained by Andy Whitmore at Greystoke Studio.
Dark Side of the Moon is a studio album released in 1973 - recorded at Abbey Road Studios - it took 7 months to record.
The Synthi AKS is wrongly credited on the album as EMS VCS3 - but the documentary videos clearly show David Gilmour, Roger Waters & Richard Wright playing the synth in my video.

Time Stamps
0:00 - Intro & EMS explanation
0:37 - Synth Solo Demo - Any Colour
1:11 - Patch Setting
1:27 - Summary
1:36 - Any Colour You Like - Synthi Solo

The VCS 3 (or VCS3; an initialism for Voltage Controlled Studio, version) is a portable analog synthesiser with a flexible semi-modular voice architecture, by Electronic Music Studios (London) Limited (EMS) in 1969.
This product was called various names by EMS. For example, the printed logo written to the front left of products are: V.C.S. 3 or The Putney (VCS 3) on the earlier version, then The Synthi (VCS 3) II on the later version (Synthi VCS 3 II).

The VCS 3's basic design was reused by EMS in many other of their own products, most notably in the EMS Synthi 100 (1971), and the Synthi A (1971) and AKS (1972) (essentially a VCS 3 housed in a plastic briefcase). The AKS also has a sequencer built into the keyboard in the lid."

Yamaha CS80 - The Ultimate Famous Songs Collection

video upload by Andy Whitmore

"Whitmore takes the iconic Yamaha CS80 & meticulously replicates 36 famous songs to create a wonderful landscape of classic 70s 80s & 90s songs, stings, themes & intros by artists including Vangelis, Dr Who, Kate Bush, Bruce Springsteen, Prefab Sprout, Genesis and more.
The licks are played to the original recordings so they are in time - true to the original, effects are duplicated too & the camera set up is made so you can duplicate the sounds yourself on emulation plug ins or the original.

Time Stamps:

00:00 Bruce Springsteen Born in the USA Intro Synth Chordal Melody
00:19 Prefab Sprout If You Don't Love Me Intro Brass
00:37 Genesis Duchess String Glide
00:49 Genesis Duchess Pluck Line
01:03 Genesis Turn It On Again Brass line
01:14 Paul McCartney Wonderful Xmas Time Middle 8 Lick
01:23 Kate Bush Babooshka Intro Lead
01:44 Vangelis To the Unknown Man Intro Melody
02:11 Vangelis Chariots Of Fire Brass Melody
02:44 Paul McCartney Ebony and Ivory Intro Brass
02:57 Dr Who Signature Sting
03:05 Dr Who Theme Bass
03:40 Toto Takin' It Back Sine Glissando Pad
03:50 Toto Africa Brass pad
04:34 Toto Rosanna Brass pad
04:56 ELO Time - Prologue String Intro
05:30 Vangelis Blade Runner Brass line
06:37 Genesis Behind The Lines Intro Brass
06:53 10cc Tokyo String Pad
07:11 10cc Tokyo Flute line
07:28 ELO Twilight Brass Line
07:45 Michael Jackson Human Nature Brass pad
08:05 Paul McCartney Wonderful Xmas Time CS80 Solo
08:16 Paul McCartney & Stevie Wonder Ebony and Ivory Lead Synth
08:46 Vangelis Blade Runner String Pad
09:46 Jon & Vangelis I Hear You Now Main Theme
11:21 Vangelis Chariots Of Fire Brass Lick
11:57 Kate Bush Babooshka Flute Glide
12:24 10cc Dreadlock Holiday Lead line
12:45 10cc For You And I String Pad
13:22 ELO Yours Truly, 2095 Flute Line
13:41 Quincy Jones Betcha' Wouldn't Hurt Me Lead Synth
14:09 Michael Jackson Billie Jean String Part
14:43 10cc For You And I Flute Line
14:59 Vangelis Blade Runner Flute Intro Line
16:25 Vangelis Blade Runner Brass line-no bass

Thank you KSR for doing such a complete restoration on this CS80 - that had been stored in a garage for 25 years!
In this video, take a look at the legendary CS-80 with Andy Whitmore. This beloved eight-voice analog synthesizer with great controls like polyphonic aftertouch and a ribbon controller. Its extremely fat sound makes it an honourable member of the hall of fame of synthesizers. The CS80 was produced between 1977 and 1980.

CLICK FOR MORE »

40 Famous Sounds - Minimoog Model D : Reissue vs Original

video upload by Andy Whitmore

"How does the Mini Moog Model D Reissue stack up against the Mini Moog Model D Vintage?
I play 40 classic riffs and bass lines on both synths, back to back. and compare the sounds with the settings as close as possible
Which sounds better? You Decide!

Minimoog Model D – Vintage - 1979 vs Minimoog Model D - Reissue - 2016
How to play & program 40 of the most Famous MiniMoog Model D Patches.
I have duplicated every patch on both the Original & Re-Issue MiniMoog.

This video has FX to fully recreate the parts - the sister video with no FX will be out soon! - Watch this Space!!

Mixed by Ed Stokes - @edstokesmusic

Time Stamps
00:00 Rush Tom Sawyer FX
00:21 ELP Lucky Man lead
00:32 Duran Duran Save A Prayer lead
00:43 Duran Duran Save A Prayer lead
01:02 ABBA Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! lead
01:19 ABBA Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! bass
01:37 Harold Faltermeyer Axel F Beverly Hills Cop Main Theme lead
01:54 Harold Faltermeyer Axel F Beverly Hills Cop Main Theme bass
02:11 D Train You're The One For Me bass
02:27 D Train You're The One For Me lead
02:43 Madonna Holiday lead
03:00 Madonna Holiday bass
03:16 Queen Radio Ga Ga bass
03:32 Howard Jones New Song lead
04:09 Howard Jones New Song lead
04:19 Gary Numan Are 'Friends' Electric? theme
05:00 Michael Jackson Rock With You bass
05:26 DEVO Smart Patrol/Mr. DNA effects
05:56 Parliament Flashlight bass
06:26 Rush Tom Sawyer lead
06:44 Stevie Wonder I Wish bass
07:02 Madonna Borderline lead
07:34 Madonna Borderline bass
07:51 Dr Dre Nuthin' But A "G" Thang lead
08:15 Michael Jackson Don’t Stop 'Til You Get Enough bass
08:32 Pink Floyd Shine On You Crazy Diamond lead
09:03 Rick Wakeman Catherine Of Aragon bass
09:41 Chaka Khan We Can Work It Out bass
10:02 Weather Report Birdland bass
10:26 Barclay James Harvest Victims Of Circumstance lead
10:50 The Alan Parsons Project Separate Lives bass
11:00 Europe The Final Countdown lead
11:24 Stevie Wonder Isn't She Lovely bass
11:46 Stevie Wonder That Girl bass
12:05 Michael Jackson Workin'Day and Night bass
12:22 Gary Numan Are 'Friends' Electric? lead
12:46 Nena 99 Luftballons bass

Being perhaps the most popular version of one of the most iconic monophonic analog synth series of all time is no easy feat, but the Moog Minimoog Model D manages to pull it off. As one of the first non-modular synthesizers, the Minimoog Model D is highly intuitive and requires very little knowledge to use. The model D boasts contouring circuits and three separate, completely original oscillators, one of which can be used as an LFO. Although the Model D was reissued, the '70s Minimoog Model D hasn't depreciated in value, desirability, or style.

Watch me bring that sound back to life!🎹🕺"

YAMAHA CS-40M - Review, Sounds & Demo | Analog Synthesizer

video upload by Andy Whitmore

"Explore the unique and rare Yamaha CS-40M, a 2-note polyphonic synthesizer that shares the legendary CS80’s fat, rich sound thanks to its sub-oscillator per oscillator configuration.

The CS-40M features a distinct architecture with its sub-oscillators positioned after the high-pass filter, allowing for the creation of truly unique and interesting sounds. It boasts the same low/high-pass filter as the CS80 and CS70M (the IG00156) but with added versatility due to its bandpass mode, which offers more flexibility compared to the CS80's single filter.

One of the standout features of the CS-40M is its 5 modulation routes. Each route operates at the same speed but offers its own waveform choice and depth. You can modulate either or both oscillators, the filter, the amp’s ADSR, or the entire synth. The ring modulator can also be introduced to modulate the whole synth at a different speed, creating an incredibly dynamic soundscape.

Produced in limited quantities between 1979 and 1986, the CS-40M is a rare gem in the synth world. While it includes 20 presets similar to the Jupiter 4, these presets aren’t tweakable. However, the live panel interface, akin to the MiniMoog, is user-friendly, responsive, and satisfying to use.

With its 44-note full-size keyboard and synth action, the CS-40M is a joy to play and can be seen as a 2-note polyphonic version of the CS70M.

Time Stamps

0:00 – Intro
1:32 – Ring Modulator
2:07 – 5 Modulators
3:17 – The Oscillators
3:39 – Sub- Oscillators
3:58 – All the Oscillators
4:29 – Mixing the LFO with the Ring Modulator
5:06 – Ring Modulation Attack Functions
5:44 – Duophonic
6:05 – Add the LFO to the Ring Modulator
7:00 – Noise – no modulation
7:25 – Noise with open close filter
7:53 – Plus Resonance
8:34 – Plus LFO
10:05 – Noise through the Ring Modulator
11:55 – Add Resonance"

ARP ODYSSEY MKIII (1978) - Demo & Review

video upload by Andy Whitmore

"ARP ODYSSEY MKIII (1978) - Demo & Review

The ARP Odyssey was created as a direct competitor to the Mini Moog, addressing the demand for a smaller, more affordable synthesizer. ARP produced several versions between 1972 and 1978, and in 2015, they collaborated with Korg to faithfully recreate a re-issue with David Friend, the original designer.
The Odyssey stands out as one of the first duophonic synthesizers, with all functions controlled by sliders and switches on the front panel. The ARP Odyssey Mk III, featured in this video, was introduced in 1978. It boasts a redesigned chassis with an orange-on-black color scheme, consistent with other contemporary ARP instruments. The Mk III version includes ARP's new four-pole "4075" filter and features both unbalanced XLR and 1/4" outputs.
Often seen as a streamlined version of the ARP 2600, the Odyssey includes additional features like a high-pass filter and oscillator synchronization. It produces some of the best sync-lead sounds you'll ever hear from a synthesizer! The Odyssey is a true classic, both in design and sound.
The ARP Odyssey is highly versatile, offering numerous features:
• 2 oscillators (with VCO 2 doubling as a second LFO)
• VCO synchronization
• 2 filters (resonant low-pass and non-resonant high-pass)
• Ring modulator
• Sample & hold
• Noise generator (white and pink noise)
• 1 LFO
• 2 envelopes (ADSR and AR)

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TTSH Mini Meanie Arp2600 (Clone) - Its a Monster!

video upload by Andy Whitmore

"TTSH Mini Meanie Arp 2600 Clone Analog Synthesizer

This is one of the very few examples of a Synth today being built as it was in the 1970s - authentic analog technology.

The TTSH Mini Meanie Arp 2600 clone was released in 2015 by The Human Comparator.
The synth is designed to be built at home – although a lot of synth enthusiasts have them built by a Synth tech – which considering how complicated it is & how many soldering points there are – is probably safer.
The original Arp 2600 came out in the early 1970s to compete with Moog – amongst others.
Its goal was to take synthesis out of the lab & into the hands of the musicians.

The TTSH or Two Thousand Six Hundred Mini Meanie is a Modern version of the Original Arp 2600 at about 73% of the original size making it the "mini meanie".In terms of electronics the TTSH is pretty much identical to the early 70s grey faced model 2600P, which includes the built-in speakers (although these speakers are way better than the original speakers). Additionally it has awesome orange LED sliders as standard. (nerdaudio.com)This particular TTSH v3 was built by Margo in November 2023 at her workshop in North London.
Extras include
Midi
Osc sync mod – sync osc 3 to either osc
Dc removal mod
Dc off set – gets massive thump open vca
Envelope range mode. Adsr - otherwise the release has no sustain (as per the original 2600) – now the sustain goes up to triple time.
Small mod on reverb amp – less hummy
Clock mod allows you to pole sync – clock sample & hold
This Mini Meanie cost £3000.

In this video – I explore the synth & show you some of the sounds it is capable of.
Thanks for watching."

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Battle of the Poly Synths: Top 10 Analog Classics

video upload by Andy Whitmore

"Analog Synthesizers Rewind: Top 10 Classics!
S1:Ep11 - The FINALE in a series of 11 videos!

Which is the best vintage analog polysynth to buy?
Top 10 Vintage Analog Polysynths: The Ultimate Comparison

Welcome to the ultimate vintage analog polysynth showdown!
In this video, we dive deep into the world of classic analog synthesizers, comparing and contrasting the top 10 vintage polysynths that have stood the test of time.
Whether you're a seasoned synthesizer enthusiast or a newcomer to the analog realm, join us as we explore the unique features, iconic sounds, and timeless appeal of these musical gems.
From the warm tones of the Juno series to the powerful presence of the Prophet, discover which vintage polysynth might be the perfect addition to your setup.
Let the sonic adventure begin!

00:00 Intro
00:24 Prophet VS Synth: Sound Selection Showcase [previous video]
01:25 Juno-106 Analog Synthesizer: A Complete Overview [previous video]
02:48 The Secret Sounds of Oberheim Xpander Revealed [previous video]
04:12 The Roland Jupiter 4: A Sound Engineer's Dream [previous video]
05:46 Discovering Yamaha CS50's Top Sound Options [previous video]
07:20 Desire: Best Oberheim OB-8 Sounds Revealed [previous video]
08:50 SuperJupiter: Unlocking the Best MKS80 Sounds [previous video]
10:24 Drama and Fear: Prophet 5 Synthesizer Sounds [previous video]
11:54 Experiencing the Divine Sounds of Jupiter 8 [previous video]
13:27 The Yamaha CS80: A Musician's Dream [previous video]

You can find demos for each in previous posts here.