Cherry Audio Introduces Yellowjacket EDP WASP Inspired Synthesizer

video upload by Cherry Audio

"Cherry Audio is proud to introduce Yellowjacket, an innovative virtual synthesizer that pays tribute to the legendary 1978 EDP Wasp synthesizer. Yellowjacket perfectly replicates the Wasp's distinct buzzy tone and its hybrid analog/digital design, while incorporating modern features that enhance its creative possibilities. The outcome is an affordable synthesizer plugin that combines a rich historical legacy with cutting-edge functionality for today's musicians and producers. "

Cherry Audio | Hive Mind for Yellowjacket Preset Pack

video upload by Cherry Audio

"Additional extraordinary sounds for Yellowjacket synthesizer plugin are available exclusively from Cherry Audio! The Hive Mind for Yellowjacket Preset Pack features 100 more presets by sound design wizard James Dyson, designed to further showcase Yellowjacket's arpeggios, effects, modulation, extended multi voice modes, and aftertouch.

Get the Hive Mind for Yellowjacket Preset Pack and check out more audio demos at: https://store.cherryaudio.com/presets..."

Cherry Audio | Introducing Yellowjacket with Tim Shoebridge

video upload by Cherry Audio

Introduction to Yellowjacket with Tim Shoebridge:

00:00 - Opening
00:45 - Introduction
01:48 - History: EDP and The Wasp
03:24 - Yellowjacket - Keyboard Controls
04:50 - Oscillators and Mixer
05:33 - Control Osc (LFO)
11:28 - Filter
16:54 - Envelope Generators
19:57 - Effects
23:30 - The Speaker Effect
26:30 - Arpeggiator
30:33 - FX Output Controls
33:00 - Keyboard Pressure Panel (Aftertouch)
35:08 - Root/Diatonic Scales
35:37 - More on Keyboard Modes
37:35 - Background: EDP and LINK
40:08 - Multi Voice, Cycle, and "Mini Synths"
45:21 - Conclusion: "Tick Tock"

BUZZ! Cherry Audio Yellowjacket recreates the infamous Wasp synth

video upload by CatSynth TV

"We buzz around in Cherry Audio's new Yellowjacket, a recreation of the infamous Wasp synthesizer from Electronic Data Plant. We examine all of its features in detail, and explore a few of the presets from both the Factory bank and the Hive Mind expansion bank.

To find out more, please visit https://cherryaudio.com

00:00 Introduction
00:24 History
01:12 Overview
01:42 Oscillators
05:42 Filter
10:08 VCA Envelope
11:27 LFO (Control Oscillator)
14:29 Keyboard & Voice modes
18:42 Keyboard pressure
21:41 Wasp speaker emulation
23:04 Octafuzz
25:18 Other effects
32:45 Arpeggiator
37:11 Factory presets
40:40 Hive Mind presets
43:51 Conclusion"

Press release follows:



PRESS RELEASE -- April 22, 2025 --

Cherry Audio is proud to introduce Yellowjacket, an innovative virtual synthesizer that pays tribute to the legendary 1978 EDP Wasp synthesizer. Yellowjacket perfectly replicates the Wasp's distinct buzzy tone and its hybrid analog/digital design, while incorporating modern features that enhance its creative possibilities. The outcome is an affordable synthesizer plugin that combines a rich historical legacy with cutting-edge functionality for today's musicians and producers. Yellowjacket synthesizer is available immediately for only $49. Additionally, Yellowjacket can be purchased as part of Cherry Audio's "Build Your Own Bundle" value options, Pick 3 (on sale for $99) and Pick 6 (on sale for $149), for a limited time.

Yellowjacket perfectly embodies the appearance and charm of the original Wasp, as well as the distinctive sound of its unique oscillators and signature state-variable filter. At the same time, it pushes the limits with Cherry Audio's characteristic innovations to bring this cherished classic into the 21st century. Highlights include:
16-voice polyphony alongside monophonic, unison, and cycle modes
Two oscillators with options for sawtooth, pulse, or square waveforms, as well as the enhanced modulated pulse-wave based on EDP's Gnat synthesizer
Innovative multi-voice modes that provide per-note variation with "chained" mini-synth panels, each featuring its own settings for dynamic tonal options that can create subtle or extreme timbres, single-finger chords and arpeggiated patterns, and more
A new advanced arpeggiator featuring probability and humanize controls adds randomness to patterns. When combined with cycle modes it can create transposable and even unpredictable four-note step sequences with the touch of a single key
Enhanced performance features, including support for polyphonic aftertouch, diatonic scales, transpose functions, and more
Studio-quality integrated effects, including reverb, delay, phaser, chorus, and a new Octafuzz distortion
A vintage-style onboard speaker emulation with adjustable hiss and hum for nostalgic, lo-fi tones
The original Wasp, developed by the late Chris Huggett and Adrian Wagner for Electronic Dream Plant (EDP), was a groundbreaking instrument that combined affordability with innovative design. Introduced in 1978 for just £200, it made electronic music creation accessible to a whole new audience and influenced the sound of artists such as Nick Rhodes (Duran Duran), Dave Greenfield (The Stranglers), Dave Stewart (Eurythmics), and Thomas Dolby.

Considered Britain's foremost synthesizer designer, Yellowjacket is a celebration of Chris Huggett's pioneering spirit. Cherry Audio has incorporated its latest features into Yellowjacket inspired by his innovations, ensuring his legacy resonates with new generations of musicians.

Yellowjacket features more than 270 professionally designed presets across a dozen categories, providing limitless creative possibilities right from the start. Yellowjacket also supports velocity, channel and polyphonic aftertouch with compatible USB/MIDI controllers, and seamless DAW integration for any studio environment.

Alongside the launch of Yellowjacket, Cherry Audio is introducing the Hive Mind Preset Pack for just $9.99. This pack features an additional 100 presets designed to further showcase Yellowjacket's advanced capabilities, with a deeper dive into arpeggios, effects, modulation, and aftertouch.

Yellowjacket exemplifies Cherry Audio's commitment to providing high-quality sound at an unbeatable price. At just $49, Yellowjacket is an excellent choice for synth enthusiasts who appreciate both exceptional tone and affordability. Additionally, until May 5th, Yellowjacket can be purchased as part of Cherry Audio's "Build Your Own Bundle" options. Customers can choose the Pick 3 bundle for $99 (regularly $129) or the Pick 6 bundle for $149 (regularly $169), allowing them to mix and match any of Cherry Audio's award-winning instruments for as low as $25 per plugin.

Cherry Audio’s Yellowjacket synthesizer is available for macOS (10.13 and above) and Windows (7 or above) in AU, VST, VST3, AAX, and standalone formats. A free 30-day demo is available. Visit cherryaudio.com for additional product details, a deep-dive introductory video, system requirements, and an extensive collection of awe-inspiring sound demos.

GForce Bass Station synth goes perfectly with Launchkey

video upload by Novation

"Based on a true story, GForce Bass Station is an expertly modelled recreation of our first ever synth released in 1993. Its digitally controlled analogue oscillators, filters, and VCAs from the late, great Chris Huggett’s legendary WASP synthesiser, gave it an unruly, lo-fi sound. Cementing its status as an underground icon, the original Bass Station featured on pivotal records from Radiohead, Orbital, Nine Inch Nails, and Wu-Tang Clan.

What's better, is how Launchkey MK4's creative tools and customisable mapping capabilities enable you to perform the digital recreation, not just play. Watch to see what you can do with Launchkey and the GForce Bass Station.

Bass Station fans will feel at home here, with the original hardware’s sound, feature list, and much of the interface faithfully recreated in exacting detail. However, GForce didn’t stop there. This digital descendent comes with modern enhancements and quality-of-life improvements we could only dream of in 1993.

The Bass Station plugin is included with every purchase of Launchkey MK4, SL MkIII, or FLkey and has been specifically designed to integrate seamlessly with each model. It is also available for purchase directly from GForce Software.

Find out more about the GForce Bass Station, here: https://novationmusic.com/gforce-bass...
New Launchkey Range: https://bit.ly/_NEW_Novation_Launchke...

Chapters:
00:00 - Introducing GForce Bass Station
00:05 - Using Components to send Custom Modes for GForce Bass Station
00:13 - The GForce Bass Station plugin's voices
00:28 - Combining Polyphonic Mode and Launchkey's User Chord Mode
00:46 - Mapping Launchkey's encoders to on-board effects
00:57 - Programming Launchkey's polyphonic aftertouch pads
01:20 - Expanding your modulation
01:40 - Programming patterns
01:50 - Controlling GForce Bass Station's macro dials
02:18 - Choose the perfect waveform for your track
02:43 - Access expertly crafted presets
03:00 - Mapping parameters to Launchkey's encoders
03:15 - Create and mutate musical sequences using Launchkey's Arp Pattern Mode
03:37 - What Novation products come with the GForce Bass Station plugin?
03:45 - Find out more about the GForce Bass Station plugin"

PWM Mantis Hybrid-Analog Duophonic Synthesizer

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

via this listing

"Born out of collaboration between PWM and the late Chris Huggett, Mantis draws from the legacy of synthesizers like the Wasp and OSCar, but with modern refinements and performance. Blending sounds and techniques built over the years designing instruments for the likes of EDP and Novation, Huggett's final designs went into Mantis, and through some touch-up work and adding powerful MIDI capabilities, PWM brought Mantis to market to honor Huggett's legacy.

As a duophonic instrument, Mantis contains two independent voices—beginning with digital oscillators that are then processed through an entirely analog signal path, alongside a digital effects section. Mantis features mathematically-generated oscillators, running on their own DSP chip for maximum performance and quality. There are two oscillators per voice, plus a sub-oscillator, meaning that you can dial in a blended variety of tones as you see fit.

Possibly the star of the show on Mantis is the unique VCF design, utilizing a unique configuration devised by Huggett. Based on SSI2164 VCA chips, the multi-mode filters in each voice may be controlled simultaneously in series or parallel configurations, with a width control similar to what was found on the OSCar. This leads to a distinctive array of sonic potential, helping Mantis stand out from the pack.

Like other PWM synthesizers, Mantis features incredible digital control capabilities, including MIDI CC control over all parameters. Mantis is a modern synthesizer for the modern day, and a fitting tribute to the legacy of Chris Huggett's work."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Dave Spiers 30 year journey with OSCar

video upload by GForce Software

"Dave Spiers, co-founder of GForce Software, reminisces about a 30-year relationship with one of his favourite synthesisers and his friendship with the late Chris Huggett."

PWM Mantis Quick Look

video upload by Starsky Carr

"WASP - OSCAR - MANTIS. From original thoughts of Chris Huggett, PWM and he worked together on his final designs before his untimely death. PWM have realised his vision plus some extras like the ability to play 4 voices (quad paraphonic) on what was originally a duophonic idea. ... I think!

The PWM Mantis is a unique synth .. a bit like a vintage synth being brought to the market in the 21st century. I say almost like a vintage because it does have all the modern features you'd expect."

PWM Mantis Hybrid Synthesizer | SonicLAB Product Review

video upload by sonicstate

"In this SonicLAB review, we explore the PWM Mantis, a hybrid synthesizer from PWM Music and the late Chris Huggett. It's a hybrid synthesizer combining digital oscillators and stereo multi-mode analog filters.Digital wavetable oscillators, with looping envelopes, onboard effects, and a six-slot modulation matrix.
Priced at $1,349 USD, the Mantis is available now"

*Key Moments:*
00:00:00 Introduction to PWM Mantis
00:00:39 Overview of synthesizer features
00:02:23 Exploring patches and sounds
00:06:05 Detailing oscillators and wave-shapes
00:12:53 Filters
00:16:43 LFOs
00:18:03 Arpeggiator and FX
00:21:31 Final thoughts and pricing

G-Storm Electro Introduces GODSPEar | Oxford OSCar Eurorack Filter Translation

[Demo #1] video upload by gstormelectro

"Audio + Video by G-Storm Electro c. 2024

Today I am introducing GODSPEar, my homage to the Oxford OSCar filter in Eurorack format. GODSPEar is the only filter used in these audio recordings. Detailed explanation of the module and patch examples will be in a forthcoming Demo #2. Audio recorded direct to Tascam DR-05, some additional compression and normalization used in the making of this audio.

Check my Reverb store for GODSPEar and other module availability
http://reverb.com/shop/gstormelectro

These audio demos from this video can be heard on their entirety on my Soundcloud page. http://soundcloud.com/gstormelectro"



via Reverb

"As Oscar translates from Celtic to God’s Spear, now GODSPEar is my translation Oxford OSCar Synthesizer filter for the Eurorack format. GODSPEar has a special look and sound that pays special homage to OSCar designer Chris Huggett’s creation. The Oxford OSCar would inherit some of the funky DNA from EDP WASP as it was discontinued at the time. Hailed as Europe’s answer to the Minimoog, sets itself apart from Bob’s hardware with some curious technical wizardry all its own.

The OSCar, and now with my GODSPEar filter were already interesting to start. It is actually TWO FILTERS each w/ 2-Pole cutoff slope. The cutoff frequencies of the two filters can diverge from each other by an adjustable SEPARATION control. The “Q” resonance control behaves as one would expect when no SEPARATION is used. But in BANDPASS mode, with higher Q settings as well as SEPARATION impart vocal formant sounds.

Divorced of any CPU control prowess as it was implemented on the original. GODSPEar filter control has been designed from the ground up to work well w/ the Euro standard. And to meet the stringent requirements that discerning modular synth enthusiasts have come to expect. Yet retains the original core topology, a full analog signal path, NOS NJM13600 OTAs, as well as V/Oct filter tracking. Logic assisted Filter MODE selection button toggle. Two external CV inputs for control of Frequency. And now the additional features of CV control over Q, and yes CV control of Separation.

Beware - CV control over Separation is serious business.These signals were only meant to diverge in one direction. Sending the cutoff frequencies in the other directions yield vanishing Bandpass audio and unintended consequences for Low/HighPass modes. Thus on GODSPEar, I’ve added an active Full Wave Rectifier circuit to govern the Separation CV input as gate-keeper and peace maker. Go ahead and send your bi-polar LFO signals etc. Just know in doing so, any negative voltage components will be flipped over to the positive realm. You’re welcome.

FREQUENCY | the initial Cutoff Frequency of the filter

Q | the depth of the peak frequency resonant feedback.Res will self-oscillate without an input signal present.

Q CV | Modulate the Q Resonance w/ any polar/bi-polar mod signal. This signal is summed against the Initial Q amount knob.

IN 1 & IN 2 | Mix together 2 different audio signals, each w/ their own mix pot.

Freq CV | Modulate the Cutoff Frequency w/ any polar/bi-polar signal. At 12 o’clock, the pot has no modulation. In the Counter-Clockwise direction it can invert the incoming control signal.

KB | Modulate the Cutoff Frequency w/ a V/oct signal or any other polar/bi-polar mod. Self-oscillation resonance will loosely track v/oct when KB is set to 100%, allowing the self-oscillation Q sinewave to be played in a musical fashion.

TYPE | Toggle switch for choosing the filter MODE: Lowpass, Bandpass, Highpass.

SEPARATION | Initial amount that diverges the frequency cutoff spread between the two filters.

SEP CV | Control Voltage Input with attenuator knob for modulating the Initial Separation amount. Input CV Signal is passed through a Full Wave Rectifier so that Separation behaves in a prescribed manner as expected, thereby preserving audio integrity.

OUT | the mono audio output jack.

Spearhead your own analog filter trajectory by racking up something a bit outside the usual fare. GODSPEar is made in limited quantities, not mass produced – so don’t wait and get yours whenever available. Includes a 10-pin to 16-pin Eurorack ribbon connector. Rack screws are not included as it’s presumptuous that one fastener spec suits everybody. Fasteners are possibly available upon request if you let me know your specs I’ll see what I can do. I highly recommend After Later Audio Rack Screws sold separately here on Reverb."

ELECTRONIC DREAM PLANT WASP DEMO

video upload by Synth Tailor Electronics

"Electronic Dream Plant WASP synthesizer demo for Matt. This WASP was repaired and the ELBY MIDI kit was installed by Synth Tailor Electronics.

All sounds made by the WASP (excluding the percussion made by the Sequential Circuits DRUMTRAKS drum machine + Arturia Keystep Pro controlled sequences via MIDI)

The EDP WASP is a hybrid digital VCO and analogue VCF synthesizer designed by Chris Huggett. the Wasp was released in 1978. Such an interesting little synth, that has a very unique sound. The keybed is a touch sensitive two octave keyboard, that works by sensing skin capacitance, so playing with gloves on is out of the question. The midi kit is a must to install in these units to be able to use in a modern setup."

SUPERBOOTH 2024: PWM - Mantis Polysynth

video upload by sonicstate

"At Superbooth 2024, we met up with Paul Whittington from PWM who presented the long-awaited Mantis synthesizer. The Mantis boasts a duophonic design with the capability to produce four fully formed voices, making it a potent polysynth. With 100 presets in each of its two banks, the Mantis offers a diverse range of sounds through its two filters which can be panned in the stereo field.

Mantis also includes onboard effects such as chorus and reverb, adding depth and character to its sonic capabilities, and can be powered via usb c. With MIDI control for every parameter and full-size MIDI connectivity, the Mantis was designed in collaboration with the late, great Chris Huggett, so it's bound to become a classic.

Mantis Available now. Price: 1,599 Euros 1,349 GBP 1,499 USD"

SUPERBOOTH 2024: PWM – Mantis

video upload by sonicstate

"At Superbooth 2024, we met up with Paul Whittington from PWM who presented the long-awaited Mantis synthesizer. The Mantis boasts a duophonic design with the capability to produce four fully formed voices, making it a potent polysynth. With 100 presets in each of its two banks, the Mantis offers a diverse range of sounds through its two filters which can be panned in the stereo field.

Mantis also includes onboard effects such as chorus and reverb, adding depth and character to its sonic capabilities, and can be powered via usb c. With MIDI control for every parameter and full-size MIDI connectivity, the Mantis was designed in collaboration with the late, great Chris Huggett, so it's bound to become a classic.

Mantis Available now. Price: 1,599 Euros 1,349 GBP 1,499 USD"

Check with dealers on the right for availability.

Doctor Mix & Anthony Check Out the PWM Mantis Synth | NAMM 2024

video upload by Anthony Marinelli Music

"Join me and my good buddy Doctor Mix as we explore one of the most talked about synthesizers at NAMM 2024. It won't be difficult to discover how much fun we're having checking it out for the first time. I can see that there is still a lot to unpack about this synth and I'm looking forward to doing just that. Please stay on the lookout and tune in to AMM for a much more in-depth look at this super fun and great sounding instrument. It's part of a special family of synthesizers that were all designed with much love. PWM Mantis is a collaboration between the late Chris Huggett (EDP Gnat, EDP Wasp, OSCar) and PWM (Paul Whittington). A hybrid-analog synthesizer, Mantis utilizes mathematically-generated oscillators with a pure analog signal path and a modernized design architecture based on the EDP Wasp with an OSCar-style filter. It is also duophonic, with two fully independent voices, and features dual multi-mode filters that can be combined in series or parallel. Fully featured, Mantis is equipped with an arpeggiator, 37-note full-size semi-weighted keyboard with aftertouch, multi-function joystick, and MIDI/USB control for easy integration with any studio or live environment.

00:00 Doctor Mix and Anthony Sweeping Filters (Cold Open )
00:30 Walk up (music)
00:49 Meeting Mantis Co-Designer Paul Whittington
01:24 Trying out the PWM Mantis
02:22 Sweeping Multi-Mode Filters
03:33 Wave Shape Panning
04:57 Add Glide and Filter Sweeps
05:14 Paraphonic
05:40 Doctor Mix and Anthony Summary
06:18 Logo (music)"

NAMM 2024 PWM Mantis Synthesizer

video upload by Shazamm

"The PWM Mantis is priced at $1,499 USD, with a street price around $1,349. See the PWM site for more information."

Specs

CLICK FOR MORE »

Gearfest UK 2023: PWM Mantis Synth Is Coming Along

video upload by sonicstate

"We spoke to Paul and Ben from PWM at Gear Fest 2023, where they provided an update on their Mantis synthesizer. The Mantis project was initially started by Chris Huggett, and Ben has taken over the firmware development since Chris's passing. The Mantis is now in a working state and producing impressive sounds. Ben discussed the challenges of refining the code and turning the proof of concept into a fully functional product, addressing features like the multi-mode filter and ensuring compatibility for production. Paul mentioned that the firmware and sound patching would require a few more months of development before moving into mass production. The Mantis is expected to be available for purchase in October, just in time for the pre-Christmas rush."

Superbooth 2023: PWM - Mantis

video upload by sonicstate

"Paul from PWM gave a us preview of Mantis, which is the last synth designed by Chris Huggett [EDP Wasp creator] before he passed away. The Mantis is described as a Wasp Mark II with an Oscar- inspired dual filter, and two analog signal paths that make it duophonic. The oscillators are numerically calculated on power-up using then move into the analog domain, where everything is digitally controlled.

The Mantis mixer allows users to balance between oscillator one and two, add noise, and ring mod. It has a deep, but simple to use modulation section, two envelopes with a unique sustain fall feature and 100 factory patches and 100 user patches. The instrument also includes a few digital effects at the end of the signal path that help sweeten the sounds and make it more of an all-around performance instrument.

While the instrument is still in development, PWM showcased the circuit boards that are provide a preview of the final sound of the Mantis.

PWM Mantis Available: Late Summer 2023

Price 1,599 Euro. 1,349 GBP"

PWM Mantis // released today

video upload by Starsky Carr

"A brand new synth from PWM - a new company with lots of history. Paul has worked extensively in the industry. Most interesting here are his connections from his time at Novation as the BassStaion 2 product lead. You may know that the inventor of the classic WASP and OSCAR, Chris Huggett, was involved there, and before his unfortunately untimely death he was working with Paul on this new synth. Paul has brought it to life with his families blessing.

A great story, and a great little synth. Still has a couple of pre production hoops to jump through but will be available soon."

Duophonic Hybrid-Analogue Synthesiser

• 200 Patches
* All patches in RAM so can be overwritten
* Bank A: 100 Factory presets
* Bank B: 100 User presets (all set to initial patch)
* Compare function
* Initialise patch function

CLICK FOR MORE »

Novation - 30th Anniversary | Podcast

video upload by Sound On Sound magazine

"An Illustrated Podcast
Novation - 30th Anniversary: Grooveboxes, Controllers and Synths

2022 marked the 30th birthday of one of the world’s leading manufacturers of synths, samplers and hardware controllers. In this podcast, Novation Product Specialist Chris Calcutt looks back over three decades of innovation and explores the key products, technologies and partnerships behind a British music technology success story.

SHOW NOTES
Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
00:26 - 30th Anniversary
01:02 - The First Product
03:24 - The Launchpad
06:58 - Automap
09:25 - Friendly Relations
13:08 - The BassStation
17:50 - Hands-On Control
19:07 - Analogue Sound Modelling
21:41 - The Resurgence Of Analogue
30:43 - From The Rack To The Desktop
34:33 - Moving Away From Computers
38:02 - The Focusrite Group
45:25 - 40 Years of MIDI

Novation - Biog
In 1992, Ian Jannaway and Mark Thompson founded Novation Electronic Music Systems and created the MM10, a keyboard controller designed to be used with the Yamaha QY10 music workstation. The BassStation was launched in 1993 and was used by many top artists of the day. ASM (Analogue Sound Modelling) technology was introduced in 1995 and designer Chris Huggett joined the team full-time in 1998, with the popular Supernova synth being released that year.

30 years later, while still creating grooveboxes, controllers and synths, Novation is now part of The Focusrite Group, along with ADAM Audio, Focusrite and Sequential.

https://novationmusic.com/en/30-years...

Novation - Chris Calcutt
Chris Calcutt has been the Product Specialist at Novation for over a decade. Despite coming from a more traditional background of classical music composition and playing the trombone, Chris has always been heavily involved and passionate about music tech.

As a kid, Chris would play with synthesizers and a four-track recorder on the living room floor and has since gone on to work with Novation, collaborating closely with the product developers, designing and building new and innovative electronic instruments.

Chris is responsible for representing multiple brands under Novation's parent company, The Focusrite Group, working with their European distribution partners to deliver training, product presentations, and live performances both online and at in-store events.

Chris also produces and performs live as CALC and is an active member of the experimental electronic music scene in Brighton, UK.
About The People & Music Industry Podcast Channel
Listen to experts in the field, company founders, equipment designers, engineers, producers and educators.

Available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon or wherever you get your podcasts."

Novation Celebrates 30 Years with Giveaways and More

video upload by NovationTV

"It’s been 30 years of Novation and music made with bass, beats and synthesisers.

From early beginnings in 1992, Novation has been a pioneer in developing music technology, allowing artists to create decade-defining sounds. Starting as Novation Electronic Music Systems, we built a small but innovative device, the MM10, which let you control a MIDI sequencer, the Yamaha QY10, for the very first time from a keyboard.

Since then, our synths, MIDI controllers, grooveboxes and more have helped people create, play and perform at all stages of their music-making journey.

From all of us at team Novation – we want to wish a huge thank you to our whole community for keeping us inspired. We can't wait to hear what you make next, and we look forward to another 30 years.

- Discover more about Novation’s 30 Years of Making Music
https://novationmusic.com/en/30-years..."

novation · Novation Legacy Sample Pack

"Crafted from old-school Novation gear and adapting Trance to a modern time, The Novation Legacy Soundpack looks back on the history of electronic music and the gear that helped shape it. Made with Bass Station, BS Rack, AFX Mode, K-Station, A-Station, Mininova, Peak and Summit.

--- Sign up to our mailing list to receive your Novation Legacy Soundpack:
novationmusic.com/en/sign-novation-emails

"Novation looks back on three decades of bass, beats and synthesizers.

Since 1992, Novation’s synths, MIDI controllers, grooveboxes and more have helped people create, play and perform at all stages of their music-making journey.

In 1992, Novation developed the MM10, an innovative MIDI sequencer that controlled the Yamaha QY10 from a keyboard, revolutionising the way we make music as the first MIDI controller of its kind. Bass Station’s arrival in 1993 pushed them further into the spotlight as a standout synth of the ‘90s. Developed by none other than synth designer Chris Huggett, his expertise with analogue and digital synth design influenced many of their iconic synths including Supernova, Bass Station II, Summit and Peak.

Over the years, Novation’s instruments have brought new life to music-making, including the Launchpad range which changed the game for grid-based music production and DIY performance, Circuit’s much-loved intuitive approach to beatmaking and sampling, and the award-winning Launchkey range of MIDI controllers used by artists in many genres.

In 2022, they’re celebrating 30 years of music, pioneering music technology and people that made Novation what it is today.

With Novation, anything is possible
Over the past three decades, countless artists have brought their musical ideas to life with Novation instruments. From October until Christmas, they’re bringing their community together to celebrate the made music with their instruments over the years with videos from artists across the globe, huge prizes up for grabs in their 30th anniversary competition and exclusive curated soundpack giveaways.

Giving back to the global community of fans
Novation will be giving away their biggest prize bundle yet to encourage their worldwide music-making community to share the love for their instruments. One lucky winner can own a full studio’s worth of gear, as well as three years of upcoming products.

The prize bundle includes:
1. A suite of Novation products, including Circuit Rhythm, Circuit Tracks, FLkey Mini, Launchkey 37, Summit, Peak, Bass Station II, Launchpad Pro.
2. Three years of future Novation products.
3. A feature on the Novation website spotlighting their entry/music and a short interview with accompanying social media promotion.
4. A 1:1 Product Demo Session with a Novation product specialist.
5. A Novation Logo T-Shirt.

The giveaways continue with 30 exclusive soundpacks covering countless genres. All users can get their hands on samples made for the Circuit Rhythm, and perfect for all of the Launch range – regardless of what DAW they choose. Newsletter subscribers can also get their hands on the Novation Legacy Sample Pack – add moods, textures and unique sounds from the Bass Station, AFX Station, and plenty of classic instruments.

Novation is also going backstage with creators in their community to see just how they make their music. Learn how to make songs and build beats in Ableton, Logic, Cubase and FL Studio from long-time Novation users including Lex Luger, Trishes, Bad Snacks, Seids and Venus Theory.

Join Novation in celebrating their story so far and become a part of their future as they continue to encourage creativity and make music production a rewarding experience for all."

Explore Novation's 30 Years

Novation Releases Peak & Summit 2.0 Firmware Update

video upload by NovationTV

"In this edition of Novation Live, Enrique introduces the new firmware update that's available for our polysynth duo - Summit and Peak. Focusing on Peak, Enrique will be showcasing some of the powerful new tools firmware v2.0 brings.

In the biggest update yet for Summit and Peak, Firmware v2.0 brings in essential improvements and a multitude of features across stereo controls, modulation, unpredictability, and effects, that give you powerful tools to shape your sound.

You will now be able to create bigger, wider, and more intricately textured soundscapes with updated stereo controls. Experiment with expansive sound design with modulation and unpredictability. A range of effects improvements brings new tonalities with the addition of Chorus Modes, Flanger, Phlanger, new effects modulation destinations and Lo-Fi delay

--- Learn more about the Summit and Peak Firmware Update v2.0:
https://bit.ly/SummitPeakFirmwareUpdate

--- Discover Summit:
https://novationmusic.com/en/synths/s...

--- Discover Peak:
https://novationmusic.com/en/synths/peak"

The press release:

""Powerful new tools to shape your sound.

Novation has just launched its biggest update yet for Summit and Peak. Firmware v2.0 brings in essential improvements and a multitude of features across stereo controls, modulation, unpredictability, and effects, that give you powerful tools to shape your sound.

Summit and Peak owners will now be able to create bigger, wider, and more intricately textured soundscapes with updated stereo controls. Experiment with expansive sound design with modulation and unpredictability. A range of effects improvements brings new tonalities with the addition of Chorus Modes, Flanger, Phlanger, new effects modulation destinations and Lo-Fi delay.

Firmware v2.0 Features

Stereo
New spread modes, panning per voice, and panning in the mod matrix give additional control and allows for sound design in the stereo field. Now you can create bigger, wider, and more intricately textured soundscapes.
Modulation and unpredictability
Create deeper and more experimental sounds with new mod destinations, noise as a mod source, and additional LFO 3 and 4 parameters. Animate Envelopes and Arpeggiator Chance open more creative performance possibilities.

Effects
New effects, including Chorus Modes, Flanger, and Phlanger add new tonalities. Additional effects modulation destinations open up more experimental sound design. A new Lo-Fi delay mode enables a more vintage style sound.

Bug Fixes
The firmware update v2.0 includes a number of bug fixes. The full details can be found in the release notes.

You can read about the full details of firmware v2.0 by visiting the Components update page for Summit and Peak.

Summit and Peak firmware v2.0 is the last addition to the legacy of Chris Huggett’s innovative synth design work with Novation. Having shaped the sound of Novation’s iconic synths – including Bass Station, Supernova, Bass Station II, Peak and Summit, Chris has left an indelible imprint on our heritage, and we will always be grateful for his influence and inspiration.

Novation will also be hosting a live stream today (Thursday March 31st, 2022, 9pm UK time), with product specialist Enrique, taking place on our YouTube channel, where the new v2.0 update features will be demonstrated live.

For those unfamiliar with Peak and Summit, Peak is an eight-voice polyphonic synthesiser that boasts rich and warm sounds, while Summit is a two-part, 16-voice, 61-key synthesiser with great harmonic depth – both now with enhanced capabilities thanks to firmware update v2.0.

Summit & Peak owners are now able to download the v2.0 update from Novation Components."

And a video by GEOSynths:

Novation Summit 2.0 Firmware Test

video upload by GEOSynths

Tribute to Chris Huggett - Laurent Pelletier / Chris Calcutt / Paul Wiffen | SynthFest 2021

video by SynthFest France

Oxford Synthesizer Company OSCar

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

via this auction

"One of the top ten synths ever made, the Oscar is a surprisingly powerful monosynth. Designed by Chris Huggett (of EDP Wasp fame), this has the ability to work as an additive synth as well as a subtractive synth.

It is in good working and cosmetic condition though I can’t verify whether the loading and saving of patches to a cassette works."

Bright Sparks Documentary - B Side

video by GForce Software

"The B Side of the critically acclaimed Bright Sparks Documentary focuses on the British electronic music pioneers, including the original Mellotron makers, Les, Norman and Frank Bradley, EMS's Peter Zinovieff, Electronic Dream Plant's Adrian Wagner & Chris Huggett, and String Ensemble inventor, Ken Freeman.

Includes contributions from I Monster's Dean Honer & Jarrod Gosling, Peter Zinovieff, Chris Cross, Daniel Miller, John Bradley, Karl Hyde, Ken Freeman, Fred Gardner, Will Gregory, Dean Honer & Jarrod Gosling"

You can find additional GForce Bright Sparks posts here.