Cherry Audio Introduces Crumar DS-2 Software Synthesizer

video upload by Cherry Audio

Cherry Audio Crumar DS-2: Full tutorial by CatSynth TV

Patreon: / catsynth | https://shop.catsynth.com | https://ko-fi.com/catsynth

Playlist:

1. Cherry Audio's DS-2 Part 1 | DCOs, Polyphonic Engine & Factory Presets
2. Cherry Audio's Crumar DS-2 Part 2 | VCF, VCA, voice modes
3. Cherry Audio's Crumar DS-2 Part 3 | Effects, Arpeggiator, Presets

Press release follows:


Cherry Audio Launches Crumar DS-2 Synthesizer

Based on the original 1978 hardware, this value-packed emulation revives the digital control and analog soul of an often forgotten landmark in synth history.

(March 31) Cherry Audio is excited to announce the release of the Crumar DS-2 synthesizer, a virtual instrument that faithfully replicates and significantly enhances the original 1978 hardware synth that was ahead of its time. This release marks the latest collaboration with Crumar Instruments, following last year’s acclaimed Spirit synthesizer, revisiting a groundbreaking Italian synth and infusing it with Cherry Audio’s signature style.

Crumar DS-2 by Cherry Audio is available now for only $59 at cherryaudio.com and through authorized resellers, bringing its rare and legendary “vintage digital” sound to the modern production environment at an exceptionally low price.

The Crumar DS-2 was a unique synthesizer that combined a monophonic Synth engine alongside a fully paraphonic Poly section. The “DS” in its name stood for “Digital Synthesizer,” and it featured two Digitally Controlled Oscillators (DCOs) designed to prevent tuning drift. However, the resulting waveforms were completely stair-stepped, giving the instrument a gritty character and wild harmonics. Together, the two sections provided the DS-2 with a distinct sound that set it apart from both early digital synthesizers and classic analog models.

Building upon the foundation of the vintage hardware, Cherry Audio’s virtual Crumar DS-2 introduces several powerful modern enhancements to expand its creative potential. The monophonic Synth section now includes unison and multi-voice modes, providing panning and tuning options, as well as polyphonic functionality with 4, 8, or 16 voices. The Poly section supports full 32-note polyphony, and DS-2 now features a keyboard split mode in addition to the layered mode.

The Synth section now includes a stair-stepped sine waveform option, and oscillator sync has been added. A third LFO has been introduced, and LFO options now include discrete delays, sync, retrigger, reverse wave, and one-shot capabilities. The five-part LFO Mixer, previously hardwired to specific destinations, now offers six assignable destinations with 33 options each, providing unparalleled modulation flexibility.

The envelopes have been enhanced with an initial delay stage (DADSR) and velocity sensitivity, and now include looping functionality. Additionally, the Poly section now features VCA release control, making it better suited to powerful string-synth sonics. Touch control has been added with four slots and simple click-to-assign functionality, supporting both channel and polyphonic aftertouch with compatible MIDI controllers.

The VCF has been upgraded to include a 12dB 2-pole in addition to the original 24dB 4-pole option, along with polarity and key-follow adjustments. Other enhancements include an assignable bend range, a dedicated mod wheel, and a dynamic arpeggiator that can be applied to either or both sections. DS-2 also offers three customizable effects chains with 20 studio-quality effects, allowing users to arrange, save, and recall their settings. Over 300 professionally designed presets are organized into 14 categories to inspire instant creativity.

Cherry Audio is also offering the Deep Space Preset Pack for DS-2 for only $9.99. This pack includes an extra 100 presets that provide an in-depth exploration of DS-2's sophisticated modulation routing, expressive performance features, layers and splits, arpeggiator, and studio-quality effects.

Crumar DS-2 reflects Cherry Audio’s ongoing dedication to delivering high-quality sound at an unbeatable price, even in uncertain times. Priced at just $59, the DS-2 is an ideal choice for synth enthusiasts who value both exceptional tone and affordability. Furthermore, until April 13th, producers can purchase the Crumar DS-2 as part of Cherry Audio’s “Build Your Own Bundle” options. Customers can select a Pick 3 bundle for $99 (regularly $119) or a Pick 6 bundle for only $149 (regularly $169), allowing you to mix and match any of their award-winning instruments for as little as $25 per plugin.

Cherry Audio’s Crumar DS-2 synthesizer is available for macOS (10.13 or later) and Windows (7 or later) 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.

TAL Introduces TAL-J8X - Roland JX-8P Based Soft Synth

video upload by TAL Software

"This video shows some original JX-8P factory sounds. It compares the plug-in with the hardware device (revision 2 / OS v3.1). For the test, we imported the factory presets with sysex. A MIDI sequence is played alternately between the plugin and the hardware. Sometimes it clicks when the output switches and…

The demo was recorded in one take without any modifications or cuts. Don't expect identical results. DCO, LFO, and Chorus phases are freely running on both devices. The cutoff frequencies vary slightly for each voice."

5 things to like about TAL-J8X

video upload by Solidtrax and TAL Software

"For more info about TAL-J8X, point your browser here: https://tal-software.com/products/tal...
For more info about sounds I’ve made for other TAL products, please visit: https://www.solidtrax.nl/shop

My soundbank for TAL-J8X is still in the works…"

0:00 Intro
0:24 1. The Oscillator Section.
03:20 2. The Filter Section.
05:28 3. The Modulation Options.
09:20 4. Individual Voice Tuning.
10:36 5. The Effects.

"TAL-J8X is an instrument plug-in that emulates the sound of the analog 80's synthesizer with additional features that add a fresh touch to this synth.

Emulation of the 80's hardware synthesizer (rev 2 / OS 3.1).
Modern filter mode that allows self-oscillation.
Create and play chords.
Arpeggiator with different modes.
High Quality EQ, Delay and Reverb FX.
Aftertouch and MPE support.
Microtuning support (tun file import and MTS Client).
Original factory banks included.
More than 600 presets by Electric Himalaya, Saif Sameer, Sound Author, Empty Vessel, VIC-20, TAL, Heat Audio, FMR and others.
Individual tuning for every voice converts the synths DCO into a VCO.
Reads Sysex files and Sysex MIDI from the hardware device (tone data from JX-8P, JX-10, MKS-70).
Can also control a hardware device. If enabled, it sends Sysex through the plug-in MIDI output (only possible when supported by the DAW)."

FREE SYNTH: ENSONIQ SD-1 Emulator (by Sojus Records) - No talking demo

video upload by ADL-MusicLab

"Hello everyone!

Here's to you my 'No talking demo' of this FREE emulation of the Ensoniq SD-1 developed by Sojus Records, which brings back to life this iconic synthesizers!

This VST3 plugin is a faithful, hardware-level emulation of one of the most unique digital synthesizers of the early ’90s.

Originally released in 1990, the Ensoniq SD-1 comes from a lineage of evolving Transwave wavetable synthesizers, following the ESQ-1, SQ-80, and VFX series. It combines additive-style waveform layering with powerful modulation, placing it alongside classics like the PPG Wave and Waldorf Microwave in the world of hybrid digital synthesis.

This "MAME-based" VST3 plugin brings the SD-1/32 to life inside your DAW for the first time. Despite being a proof-of-concept, it is already fully functional and incredibly deep.

The demo showcases some of the presets created directly from the engine – from lush pads and evolving textures to digital timbres and analog-style patches. Each patch can layer up to 6 waveforms from the original ROM, shaped by dual multi-mode filters, complex envelopes, LFOs, and an extensive modulation matrix. The built-in effects processor adds classic reverb, chorus, flanging, and delay.

Key features of the plugin include:
• Full VST3 support (Windows & macOS, Intel + ARM)
• Complete MIDI implementation including polyphonic aftertouch
• Full VST automation (all controls)
• Import of original VFX / VFX-SD / SD-1 SysEx files
• Resizable GUI with multiple panel layouts
• Support for original disk images and cartridges
• Optional multi-output routing (main + aux)
• Built-in sequencer support (with original OS disk)
• And much more...

⚠️ Important: This plugin requires original Ensoniq SD-1 ROM files (not included for copyright reasons). Please check the documentation for setup instructions.

⚠️ Note: Due to the nature of the emulation, CPU usage can be high and only one instance can run per DAW session.

More info here:
https://www.sojusrecords.com/news/ens...

GitHub page:
https://github.com/sojusrecords/Enson...

This project is an exciting step toward preserving and reimagining classic digital synthesizers in modern workflows. If you’re into vintage gear, wavetable synthesis, or rare digital textures, this is definitely worth exploring.

#ensoniq #synth #vst"

SEQUENTIAL OB-6 SYNTHESIZER

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

via this listing

Additional Signal Sounds listings

We say...
A pre-owned Sequential OB-6 Desktop in very good condition. It has a few dings to the wooden side cheeks. The outer packaging is slightly worn but original and it comes with the power supply and manual

Manufacturer's description
Classic Oberheim Sound — Made Portable
The OB-6® desktop module is just as powerful and easy to use as its counterpart, the OB-6 Keyboard. The module has all of the same controls as the keyboard version and provides the same immediacy and ease of use. As with the OB-6 Keyboard, all parameters are at your fingertips, with full-sized knobs and switches and a comfortable, intuitive layout.

How does it sound? Massive — just like the keyboard, because on the inside, it’s exactly the same. The same analog signal path with discrete VCOs and VCFs. The same high-quality digital effects. The same classic Oberheim sound that has been earning raves from musicians around the world.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Super JX and the MPG-7X

video upload by Starsky Carr

"The Roland Super JX (MKS-70 / JX-10) is one of Roland’s most underrated analogue polysynths. Released in 1986, it was effectively two JX-8P synth engines in one instrument, giving you 12 voices of DCO analogue synthesis, huge pads, powerful basses, and classic mid-80s Roland character.

In this video I take a deep dive into the Roland MKS-70 Super Jupiter rack synth, paired with the Retroaktiv MPG-7X programmer and the Vecoven PWM upgrade, which massively expands the capabilities of the original synth.

We explore how the controller transforms the experience compared with the original menu-driven interface, and look at the additional synthesis power introduced by the Vecoven upgrade including true PWM, additional envelopes, extra LFO, and expanded modulation routing.

Along the way I demonstrate a range of sounds including pads, basses, evolving textures and layered patches, showing why the Super JX became famous for its huge analogue pads and rich detuned sounds.

I also look at some of the performance features of the MPG-7X such as assignable controls, patch generation, chord mode, velocity crossfading and MIDI integration, which make this combination feel like a modern analogue synthesizer despite the vintage hardware.

If you're into vintage Roland synths, analogue polysynths, or classic 80s synthesis, the Super JX is a fascinating instrument sitting right at the transition between the analogue era and the rise of digital synths like the DX7.

In this video
Roland MKS-70 Super Jupiter overview
Retroaktiv MPG-7X controller deep dive
Vecoven PWM upgrade explained
Sound design examples and patch demos
Dual-layer patches and detuned pad sounds
Performance features and MIDI control

Gear used
Roland MKS-70 Super Jupiter
Retroaktiv MPG-7X controller
Vecoven PWM upgrade"

BASTL INSTRUMENTS MICROGRANNY MONOLITH DESKTOP GRANULAR SAMPLER

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

via this listing

Additional Signal Sounds listings

"A pre-owned Bastl Instruments Microgranny Monolith in very good condition. It comes with original packaging and accessories.

Manufacturer's description
Granny’s back with a brand new lid: our classic desktop granular sampler gets a facelift, bringing her into the modern age with enough usability upgrades to last another lifetime, rehomed in sleek black PCB-material to help it look the part amongst the latest in the Bastl range.

The Microgranny 2.0 that you know and love is still there under the facelift: lo-fi sound full of character packed into a hands-on monophonic desktop sampler that is a joy to experiment with. Plug in your microSD card loaded with 8-bit samples, or record them live through the in-built mic or line input, and jump into play with 6 samples right under your fingers, or instantly recall up to 60 saved presets.

Playability is paramount
The two-tier menu lets you dart between editing grain size or warping the playback speed, and the new-look tactile knobs grant better control than the previous model. The hazy plastic case is gone, and the PCB case’s sharper text makes the modes under the new and improved buttons more enticing – delve into Randomized mode, Legato playback, or the Instant Loop function to extend the virtually limitless possibilities of the surface controls yet further.

MIDI Control? Yep: play specific grains with keys, control the CC values remotely, even clock-sync loops and grains. Take your Granny for a walk in the park with the battery power, or run it through a wired 9V supply."

Modern Moog Bass - Messenger Filter Modes (no talking)

video upload by Pete Midi

"Moog has defined the synthesizer bass sound for decades. From all Moog mono synths the Messenger provides the widest sound spectrum and in particular, can add interesting variants to the classical bass theme. Here I go through the 4 different filter modes to show the power and flexibility of this synth.

0:00 4P Low Pass
1:35 Band Bass
2:52 High Pass
3:47 2P Low Pass

Recorded with Ableton Live 11 using VISCO and Steampipe 2 (NI Reaktor) plugins for the backing track."

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"

DiscoDSP Releases Retromulator Based on The Usual Suspects dsp56300 Engine

via DiscoDSP

[Note: although DiscoDSP gives credit to The Usual Suspects, it's my understanding TUS is not happy about it. From a forum:

"He basically took our source, put his own wrapper on it and is trying to sell it and use it to promote his own business. Can't prevent it, but frankly this is reprehensible IMHO.

Yes. He knows he cannot legally "sell" it due to the licensing model our code is published under. Therefore he sells "support" of "his development efforts" to include difficult things like "git clone" and other Arcane and extremely difficult stuff. sigh... I'd strongly advise anyone using it not to actually pay him for it, but that is just my opinion.]

What isn't clear is whether the UI is just the player above or includes the full editors by The Usual Suspects. I'm hearing it's just the player, which in effect might be an upsell for the full editors by The Usual Suspects.

That said:

"Retromulator brings legendary hardware cores back to life through authentic low-level emulation. The virtual analog synths are powered by a faithful recreation of the Motorola DSP 56300 processor, the Yamaha DX7 runs a full emulation of its original chip set, and the Akai S1000 sampler plays your SF2, SFZ, and Bliss sample banks with studio-quality interpolation. Each core runs its actual firmware or sample data — delivering the unmistakable character of hardware that defined electronic music from the early 80s through the 2000s.

Unlike traditional software emulations that recreate synthesizer behavior by approximation, Retromulator emulates the original integrated circuits at the hardware level. The virtual analog synths run on a cycle-accurate Motorola DSP 56300, the Yamaha DX7 runs a full emulation of its Hitachi HD6303R sub-CPU and Yamaha YM21280/YM21290 EGS/OPS chip set, and the Akai S1000 sampler runs on the SFZero v3.0.0 engine with 8-point sinc interpolation supporting SF2, SFZ, ZBP, and ZBB sample banks. Each core executes its authentic firmware or sample data exactly as intended.

Load the ROM firmware from your own hardware or sample banks from your library, place them in the designated folder, and Retromulator takes care of the rest. The result is not an approximation — it is the real hardware running inside your DAW.

Retromulator is built on Gearmulator, an open-source synthesizer emulation project by the dsp56300 team. We are grateful for their extraordinary work in bringing these classic instruments back to life."

You can find demos of the dsp56300 engines in previous posts here.

Featured synths:

CLICK FOR MORE »

synth_nyc Introduces Surface32 – Bidirectional Synthesizer Editing Control Surface Solution

via synth_nyc

"Surface32 is a groundbreaking, multitimbral control surface ecosystem that completely removes the friction between tactile hardware sound design and modern digital workflows. By seamlessly fusing a premium physical controller with a suite of synchronized software clients, Surface32 brings total bidirectional editing to the electronic musician's studio.

Surface32 is the system's brain. Featuring 36 continuous rotary encoders paired with 36 dedicated OLED screens, it holds up to 16 complete hardware synthesizer parameter sets (Instrument Definitions) in its memory at any given time. It bidirectionally updates your synthesizers and your software clients screens instantly, allowing you to work exactly how you want.

Surface32 operates on a dual-tier communication network. It talks to your hardware synthesizers using pure MIDI CC, NRPN, or SYSEX, while simultaneously communicating with the software clients using high-speed NRPN and SYSEX. If you turn a knob on the hardware, the software fader moves. If you move a software fader, the hardware OLED updates. All with zero feedback loops.

You can find the full technical specifications, architecture diagrams, and the different DAW/DAW-less workflows on synth_nyc here.

U.S. Patent Pending (App. No. 63/995,083)"

Introducing Luna: A Lunetta style groovebox & eurorack synth module

video upload by mylarmelodies

Check with dealers on the right on pricing and availability.

"This is your official introduction to the Neutral Labs Luna - a new lunetta-style “groovebox” desktop & eurorack compatible synth. It’s patch programmable, letting you both create tones and rhythms from 5 oscillators (2 with step sequencers inside), logic and pattern generators, all at the same time. Three 'LPG's take the raw tones and let you gate and filter them. 13 effects in 2 blocks effect and shape sounds further.

Enormous thanks to Martin at Neutral Labs for commissioning me to make a vid of this. The world needs more shift registers. Note: I used my own red Tiptop Audio Stackcables in the video, but the desktop module comes with 12 braided patch cables."

Neutral Labs Luna – the first serious Lunetta synthesizer

video upload by nyppy

"Available as a DIY kit or assembled desktop synth or 42 HP Eurorack module.

Video by the amazing ‪ / ginko.ltd

#synthesizer #eurorack #diy"

Update:

What's a Lunetta synthesizer and why should you care? // LUNA from Neutral Labs

video upload by DivKid

"Join us for an exploration of what Lunetta Synthesizers are, what the new Luna from Neutral Labs is and why you should care.

The short answer is that it’s an interesting series of raw digital building blocks from a sonic sculptor (Stanley Lunetta) with lots of modern quality of life features that allow you to approach timbre as rhythm, rhythm as timbre then round that out with low pass gates and FX.

More info at https://neutral-labs.com"

*TIMING INDEX // CHAPTERS*

INTRO
00:00 Hello & previews
02:13 What is a Lunetta synthesizer?
02:54 What is Luna?
04:07 Luna feature run down
06:14 How this video is a bit different

PATCHES & SOUNDS
07:05 Comb filter drones for dark industrial soundtracks
07:55 Hypnotic drones & dual oscillator lead lines
11:20 Bouncing bass & low end swells
11:55 New rhythms from AND & XOR logic
16:05 Fireside crackles & sputtering motorbike engines
16:35 Characterful lo fi LPGs & FX for modular synth voices
19:04 Ambient gritty echoes for happy synth blips
19:29 Shift register rhythms - gate delayed musical canons for your rhythms
23:25 Metallic bass hits & interactive rhythms
23:56 Modulation ‘hooks’ from binary counter clock dividing
26:39 Experimental expressive noise wrangling
27:05 Binary counter sub octaves & external modulation of filter FX
29:12 Alien critters clashing into ambient space
29:48 Monstrous sounds from multiplexing
33:13 Metallic synthesis & bell like tones & swells
33:49 Metallic synthesis for cymbals + dynamic LPG modulation



"Logic, Unbound. Meet Luna. The first serious Lunetta synthesizer.

Look beyond clean waveforms and predictable polyphony. Luna will take you back to a time when digital didn’t mean perfect. It meant raw. Inspired by the subterranean DIY culture of the 70s and 80s, Luna is a love letter to the Lunetta machines of old: Living, breathing organisms built from CMOS logic chips. But where those machines were fragile experiments, Luna is a weaponized instrument of sonic confusion.

The Nervous System Exposed. True to the Neutral Labs philosophy, we don’t believe in hiding the magic behind an opaque face plate. Luna features exposed CMOS inputs and outputs right on the front panel. You're not just patching cables, you are rewiring the brain of the synthesizer itself. Combine signals, bend logic, and physically intervene in the computation to create sounds that shouldn't exist.

Rhythm is Timbre. Timbre is Rhythm. In the world of Luna, there is no difference between a sequencer and an oscillator. The same digital pulse that drives a bass line can be accelerated into a screeching lead or folded into a metallic drone.

5 oscillators provide the raw material. A chaotic array of logic blocks (XOR, NOT, AND, shift registers, counters, multiplexer) will chew up those signals and spit out complex, evolving mathematical noise.

Taming the Digital Mess. Raw logic can be harsh. To turn this binary chaos into music, Luna feeds its digital soul through 3 organic low-pass gates. These analog circuits impart a natural decay and percussive punch to the madness, transforming mathematical errors into bongos, plucks, and thumping basslines.

Drench it in Atmosphere. Once you’ve constructed your signal, destroy it again. Luna comes equipped with a suite of effects — distortion, delay, reverb, chorus, bitcrusher, phaser and more — to smear your logic into a wash of ambient bliss or gritty industrial texture.

5 oscillators
logic gates (2 XOR, 2 NOT, 2 AND)
5 logic blocks (5-step ring counter,4-bit binary counter, 2 shift registers, 4-channel multiplexer)
3 touchpads that generate logic signals
3 channels for audio manipulation (low-pass gates with adjustable decay and switchable trigger mode, gain, tilt EQ)
13 audio effects that can be freely assigned to 2 effect slots running in series (drive, delay, reverb, 6 filter types, bitcrusher, phaser, chorus, comb filter)
CV control for effects and 2 oscillators
MIDI control over 2 oscillators, all 3 low-pass gates, and 3 logic outputs (MIDI TRS A socket)
2 sequencers with up to 64 steps, syncable to clock or MIDI
audio output is headphone compatible
available as a desktop synth or 42 HP Eurorack module (desktop version comes with a 12-pack of black/gold braided patch cables)
See more videos and photos on Instagram.

Note: For sustainability reasons, the desktop version does not come with a USB power supply, just a USB-A to USB-C cable. You will need a 5V supply, such as a phone charger, power bank or laptop.

Note: The desktop version has a Eurorack power header and can be placed into a Eurorack. The desktop case however has 5V USB power and no Eurorack rails, you cannot use it as a 42 HP rack without modifications."

DONNER ESSENTIAL L1 + KB-32M - No talking demo ‪@Donnermusic_Official‬

video upload by ADL-MusicLab

"Hi everyone,

I’m beyond excited to introduce you my "No talking demo" of the Donner Essential L1 — a fully analog, monophonic subtractive synthesizer inspired by the legendary Roland SH-101.

In this video, you’ll hear the raw sound of the instrument with no voiceover and no unnecessary processing — just pure analog tones, basslines, sequences, leads and textures created directly from the synth.

The Donner Essential L1 features:

CLICK FOR MORE »

GreyScale – A Standalone MIDI Sequencer KOSMOS Powered by Raspberry Pi Pico (RP2040)

This one is in via GreyScale aka plantssystem whose videos you have likely seen on the site.

"GreyScale is a compact, self‑contained MIDI sequencer built entirely around the Raspberry Pi Pico (RP2040).

Its minimal hardware footprint hides a surprisingly deep generative engine, combining Euclidean rhythm generation, step sequencing, probability control, and evolving melodic behavior.

The clean GreyScale UI provides immediate visual feedback — step activity, Euclid parameters, probability states — all rendered on a crisp LCD. A joystick and four dedicated buttons offer fast, tactile control, keeping the workflow musical and instrument‑like rather than menu‑driven.

GreyScale runs completely standalone with standard MIDI output, making it an ideal partner for hardware synths, desktop modules, or DAW setups.

Designed for spontaneity and long‑form generative performance, it encourages exploration and rewards experimentation. A small instrument with a refined feel, GreyScale blends DIY charm with a polished, modern sequencing experience."

Update: demo here.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Roland CR‑78 Software Rhythm Composer | Overview

video upload by RolandChannel

"The CR‑78 Software Rhythm Composer is an authentic recreation of the 1978 legend, one of the first programmable rhythm machines and a defining sound of synth-pop and new wave. This updated version combines the warm, analog character of the original with deep editing tools, expanded sequencing, and flexible integration for production environments.

In this video, we’ll explore the design, workflow, and functionality that bring the iconic CR‑78 into the modern age.

00:00 Intro
00:12 History and Legacy
01:20 Interface and Design
02:13 Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB)
02:44 Expanded Tone Editing
03:22 Advanced Step Sequencer
03:54 DAW Integration and Workflow
04:20 How to Get the CR‑78

The plug-in captures the nuances of the CR‑78 down to the component level using Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB). Designed for use with DAWs, it also features AU, VST3, and AAX support, host tempo sync, automation, drag‑and‑drop MIDI, and more. Get the CR‑78 with a Roland Cloud Ultimate membership or a Lifetime Key purchase."

Waldorf Music Introduces Attack 3 - A Classic Plugin Drum Synth Reborn

video uploads by WaldorfMusicChannel

Playlist:

1. Attack 3 Teaser
2. Attack 3 trailer + features
3. Attack 3 - Deep Dive Tutorial - with Waldorf CTO Rolf Wöhrmann

And a user demo:

Waldorf Attack 3: A Classic Reborn! (No Talking Demo)

video upload by Limbic Bits

"In this video, we’re diving into the Waldorf Attack 3 Plugin — Version 3 of that classic Drum Synthesizer PlugIn!"


Attack is back.
And it’s more powerful than ever.
We are proud to unveil Attack 3, the next evolution of one of Waldorf Music’s most iconic and longest-running instruments. A true classic reborn, Attack 3 redefines what a modern percussion synthesizer can be.

At its heart lies a mighty analogue-style synthesis engine, delivering 24 individual sounds per kit, with 12 sounds playable polyphonically as pitched instruments. From punchy kicks to melodic percussion, Attack 3 is built for rhythm that moves both bodies and speakers.

Attack 3 captures the unmistakable spirit of legendary 1980s analogue drum machines and the driving electronic club sound of the 1990s — and propels it boldly into today’s productions. It’s a future-ready instrument designed to shape the drum sounds of the next decade.

Every sound is alive
Every parameter can be tweaked in real time and fully automated in your DAW, inviting hands-on exploration and deep expression. While sampling capabilities have been expanded, Attack stays true to its philosophy: pure synthesis first, allowing you to create unique percussion sounds from scratch.

Redesigned for Faster Drum Creation
With a completely redesigned, scalable interface and a vastly expanded synthesis engine, Attack 3 proves that after more than 25 years, it remains the go-to tool for producers who want total control over their drums.

The new user interface adapts effortlessly to any screen size, while enhanced MIDI Learn lets you define minimum and maximum parameter ranges for expressive performance. Dedicated browsers for kits, sounds, samples, and MIDI mappings keep inspiration flowing without interruption.

Advanced Sample Playback
The oscillator section has been refined for absolute precision, featuring accurate phase control for synthetic waveformsand powerful sample playback options, including user samples, velocity mapping, round-robin playback, and flexible start positions. Whether you want surgical accuracy or organic variation, Attack 3 delivers.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Ocean Swift Releases Oscillarys - Flagship NKS Synthesizer

video uploads by Ocean Swift / Faxi Nadu

Press release follows:

Ocean Swift releases Oscillarys - a flagship atmospheric synthesis engine for Kontakt Player

Ocean Swift announces the release of Oscillarys, a new flagship NKS instrument developed in collaboration with Native Instruments. Crafted for cinematic scoring and deep ambience, Oscillarys is a three-layered synthesis engine designed to bridge the gap between raw texture and ethereal musicality

The developer quotes:

"Oscillarys blurs the border between the organic and the spectral with an atmospheric synthesis engine built for motion. By layering deeply detailed textures with sweeping filters and shifting modulations, this instrument conjures tones that breathe, dissolve, and reform - shifting seamlessly from crystalline harmonics to distant electric choirs. It offers a sonic body that is darker, smoother, and undeniably alive with motion, bridging the gap between raw texture and ethereal musicality."

Oscillarys is available exclusively via the Native Instruments online shop starting February 12, 2026, for an introductory price of €47.40 (Regular MSRP €79.99), reflecting a 40% discount.

Purchase at Native Instruments

Learn more at Ocean Swift

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Three New Synths — The M0SS Family Kickstarter Launch

video uploads by Ultrapalace

Playlist:

1. We Made Three New Synths — The M0SS Family Kickstarter Launch
2. M0SS-201 Demo: Wave Folder Bass
3. M0SS-201 Demo: Krell Patch
4. M0SS-416 Demo: Presets
5. M0SS-416 Demo: Brian Eno's Tambura patch
6. M0SS-309 Demo: Mellow Horns and FX

"The M0SS-201, M0SS-309 and M0SS-416 are 3 new members of the M0SS line of synthesizers from UltraPalace, expanding on the flagship M0SS-101 released in 2025.

This line of instruments packs the power of an advanced synth in to a tiny, rugged enclosure, and offers a unique user interface, designed to be intuitive, hands-on, and fun. Press a button to select a parameter in the synthesis engine, and turn the encoder to modify its value.

Coloured LEDs positioned across the face will pulse and toggle to show the signal flow, indicate settings, and show the current parameters magnitude.

These synths feature USB MIDI Host, as well as 1/8" MIDI, so you can connect any MIDI controller, and map knobs or faders to any parameter using MIDI learn, allowing you to transform your inexpensive MIDI controller into a powerful and fascinating vintage-style synth, or to integrate the synth into your existing MIDI setup.

https://www.ultrapalace.com/"

On Kickstarter here: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/...

"The M0SS-201 is a west coast synth, which takes some inspiration from the Buchla Easel. This modern monosynth is packed with features that will inspire experimentation into advanced synthesis. It is capable of an incredibly broad spectrum of sounds, and diving in, you might find yourself wondering if the sounds you are creating have ever been heard before by human ears, and the answer may well be no!"

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Cherry Audio Fuses Three Classic Synths into New SH-MAX Powerhouse

video uploads by Cherry Audio

Playlist: [Use the player controls to skip around.]


1. Cherry Audio | SH-MAX Synthesizer - NEW!
2. Cherry Audio | Preset Walkthrough with Andrew Longhurst
3. Cherry Audio | MAXIMUM OVERDRIVE Preset Pack for SH-MAX Synthesizer by James Dyson
4. NEW! Cherry Audio LIVE PREMIERE Tuesday, February 10 at 10 AM PST
5. Cherry Audio SH-MAX - Roland's SH series reimagined! (Demo / Tutorial) - CatSynth TV

Press release follows:


Cherry Audio has announced SH-MAX, an innovative software synthesizer that integrates three legendary SH-series synths from the '70s: the SH-5, SH-7, and SH-3A.

Cherry Audio has announced the launch of SH-MAX, an innovative software synthesizer that integrates three legendary SH-series synthesizers from the 1970s: the SH-5, SH-7, and SH-3A. SH-MAX captures the bold sound of the SH-5 while incorporating features and aesthetics from the other models, enhancing the original designs with greater power, versatility, and essential tools for modern music production. Musicians and vintage synth enthusiasts can start using SH-MAX today for the incredibly low price of just $59, available at cherryaudio.com and authorized resellers worldwide.

SH-MAX faithfully recreates the vibrant tones and workflow of the original SH hardware. It features powerful dual oscillators, two LFOs and ADSR envelopes, the dual-parallel multimode and bandpass filter sections, and the five-channel mixer of the SH-5 (1976), plus a ring modulator and sample/hold capability. Also included are autobend, duophony, filter FM, and the syncable VCOs with additional waveforms found in the SH-7 (1978). The extra additive-style oscillator from the SH-3A (1975) further enhances sound design flexibility. Moreover, SH-MAX incorporates and expands upon the expressive touch performance of the SH-2000 (1973) and features an onboard sequencer inspired by the Model 104 of the legendary System 100 semi-modular synthesizer from 1975.

SH-MAX honors its lineage while taking full advantage of modern software capabilities, supporting mono, duophonic, and 16-voice polyphonic operation for rich chords as well as earthshaking unison timbres. It features three unique retro interface themes that pay homage to the aesthetic of the SH-3A, SH-5, and SH-7, providing a visually immersive experience for true vintage synth enthusiasts. Additionally, optional drift and slop controls for the oscillators, filters, amp, and dual envelope generators introduce authentic analog character and warmth to every sound patch.

The highly flexible SH-style stereo mixer and its varied workflow options allow for modular-style signal routing. Each sound source -- VCO-1, VCO-2A, VCO-2B, the ring modulator, and noise -- can be independently routed to the VCF, BPF, or VCA, with each path enhanced with its own chain of studio-quality effects. With 20 effects available to arrange and reuse within its four chains, SH-MAX provides an exceptionally wide sonic palette. Additional features include a four-channel step sequencer capable of parallel playback or extended chaining, along with a touch effects panel that supports channel and polyphonic aftertouch with compatible MIDI controllers.

SH-MAX's legacy traces back to over five decades of synthesizer and electronic music innovation. The SH-series synthesizers have been used by a diverse range of artists, including Kraftwerk, Tangerine Dream, Jean-Michel Jarre, Brian Eno, Gary Numan, Throbbing Gristle, Skinny Puppy, Aphex Twin, Orbital, Mathew Jonson, Pink Floyd, Nine Inch Nails, Kitaro, MGMT, Vangelis, The Human League, Blondie, Yello, and more.

With SH-MAX, users can create everything from massive leads and thick basses to lush pads and exceptional sound effects, making it a true synthesis powerhouse at their fingertips. To inspire musicians right out of the box, SH-MAX includes over 300 expertly crafted presets that showcase its broad capabilities. For those wanting even more, the Maximum Overdrive Preset Pack by sound designer James Dyson is available from Cherry Audio for $9.99, offering 100 additional presets that highlight SH-MAX's raw analog tone, advanced modulation, four-channel step sequencer, and abundant effects.

Furthermore, until February 22nd, customers can take advantage of Cherry Audio's "Build Your Own Bundle" promotion at cherryaudio.com. Choose the Pick 3 bundle for $99 (regularly $129) or the Pick 6 bundle for $149 (regularly $169) to mix and match any of Cherry Audio's award-winning instruments for as low as $25 per plugin.

Cherry Audio's SH-MAX synthesizer is now available for $59 at cherryaudio.com and authorized resellers worldwide. SH-MAX is a virtual instrument for macOS (10.13 and later) and Windows (7 and later), provided as AU, VST, VST3, and AAX plugins, as well as a standalone application. A free 30-day demo is available. For in-depth product details, an introductory video, extensive demos, and system requirements, visit cherryaudio.com.

U-He Zebra 2: Dark Rhythmical Presets + Patterns. Sound Demo

video upload by Anton Anru

📡 'Quantum Pulses' is a bank of 50 presets + patterns for the U-he Zebra 2 virtual synthesizer. The collection contains dark, deep, atmospheric, sci-fi, harsh and aggressive sounds that have a wide range of uses: from cinematic sound design to modular techno sequences.
🔭 The soundset is inspired by the modern techno scene, vintage sci-fi films and experimental robots. Perfect for Techno, Industrial, Dub, IDM, Experimental, Cinematic sound design, and others.

📦 Get these presets: https://antonanru.sellfy.store/p/zebr...
👤 The author of the soundset is skendi (Arseniy Pushkov).

⚗️ The sequences work in arpeggio mode, which allows for more interesting playing of several notes in a pattern.
🎚️ Each patch is performance-ready, with velocity sensitivity and ModWheel assignments mapped for expressive control. ModWheel affects the ADSR's performance, making sounds both clearer and more blurred.

🎛️ Each patch includes 8 Macros. These controls are designed stylistically and affect the waveform, giving it movement and changing its shape, adding various FM textures and bitcrush, and also affecting the filter by opening and closing it.
The X/Y controls can be manipulated with a mouse or used as 1–8 macro knobs for hands-on control via a standard MIDI controller, making the soundset highly expressive and performance-friendly.

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FM Drift Demo - Ableton Move/Live Sound Pack by A Force Truly Evil

video upload by A Force Truly Evil

"Available here: https://sci-fiaudio.com/?product=fm-d...

FM DRIFT IS A DEEP EXPLORATION OF FM SYNTHESIS INSIDE ABLETON DRIFT, DELIVERING FOUR NEW POWERFUL FM INSTRUMENTS THAT RIVAL — AND SOMETIMES SURPASS — SYNTHS LIKE OPERATOR

FM Drift is a sound pack focused exclusively on FM synthesis within Ableton Drift, and designed to demonstrate that Drift’s FM engine is powerful, flexible, and very expressive.

Fully compatible with Ableton Live and Push.

FM Drift delivers four complete FM instruments, each built on a clear FM architecture and fully controlled via eight carefully designed macros. All the sounds in the pack have been created exclusively using these FM instruments (Ableton Instrument Racks built with Drift).

Drift’s FM capabilities are on par with classic synthesizers like Operator, and even surpass it in certain aspects.

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