Knobcon 2025 Live Performances

video uploads by The Breathalyzer (Shawn Johnson Music)

A few Knobcon performances spotted and sent my way via Musical Miscellany (Poorness Studios).

Playlist: 1. Knobcon 2025 - Welcome Reception Set

Shortly after my arrival/check-in, I was asked if I could do a live set to open the Welcome Reception (the first live performances that open the annual Knobcon synth event). Just when you thought it was safe to go outside...in the big tent. Sorry for the bad camera work, everything was last minute, I didn't even have all the cabling I needed with me, lol. thanks to Brian Kupferschmid for the thumbnail photo

2. The Entire Robot Knobcon 2025 Welcome Reception (2:14)

Love Jeremy's soloing

3. The Entire Robot Knobcon Welcome Reception (3 minutes of blissful funk)

YEAH, MAN!

4. Chris Kuborn Afternoon Abstract Knobcon 2025

sorry for the obstruction there, here's Chris' complete performance (room audio). My room microphone was probably a little close, so the steel drum has a lot of presence.

5. TotoRobyn (Robyn Alman) Knobcon 2025 Afternoon Abstract

Live set from the Chill Out room at Knobcon

6. Brian Kupferschmid Afternoon Abstract Knobcon 2025

Very cool atmospheric/ambient guitar set from Brian.

7. Caro Arroba Knobcon 2025 Chill Out Room Set

8. Synsor (Steve McQuarry) Live at Knobcon 2025 Chill Out Room Set

The room audio was captured on a separate device, so it might not be syncrhonized with the video. The video freezes towards the end...low battery got me.

Musical Miscellany Receives a Stylophone Gen X-2

video upload by Musical Miscellany

"I pre-ordered the NEW Sytlophone Gen X-2 and it arrived on August 20th. It's basically an expanded version of the Gen X-1 Stylophone (which is an expanded version of the S-1). It adds CV/Gate inputs and outputs so you can integrate the Stylophone with other gear.

Unboxing - 0:00
Overview & Features - 0:46
Initial Demo - 2:04
Controlling Modular w/Gen X-2 - 4:22
Controlling Gen X-2 w/Modular - 5:43
Final Thoughts - 8:15"

5 Fun Electronic Music Gadgets Under $99

video upload by Musical Miscellany

"I collected quite a few electronic music gadgets over the years. I decided to make a list of 5 that I really like. What's more... they're all under $99. You might want these for your studio.

0:00 - Intro
0:32 - LoBlast Bleepler | https://loblast.com/store/p/bleepler-...
1:20 - KORG Monotron Delay | https://www.korg.com/us/products/dj/m...
2:02 - Peacock Media MIDI-Pan | https://peacockmedia.software/drum/
2:54 - Dubreq Stylophone | https://stylophone.com/product/bowie-...
3:49 - BrandNewNoise Space Oddity | https://www.brandnewnoise.com/collect...
4:48 - Final Thoughts

Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/musicalmisce..."

Overlooked Module #17: Wild Sync Fatmoog VCF / VCA

video upload by Musical Miscellany

"This is a really cool filter from Wild Sync. It emulates the classic Moog 24db/octave ladder filter but has a character switch for Bass (Minitaur) and Lead (Prodigy) variants.

Visit Wildsync's store on Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/wildsyncgear

See more Overlooked Modules here:"

Overlooked Modules Playlist


Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/musicalmisce...

Passing Time with Tiny Synths 🕗 🎛️

video upload by Musical Miscellany

"Happy Memorial Day! While I'm laid up in bed waiting for my ankle to heal, I decided to play around with some of my small battery-operated synths. This jam uses the Moffenzeef Jarmaggeddon, Error Instruments Blind Noise Nano, Stylophone Beat, Rakit Rakimix5, and Boss RV-6.

Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/musicalmisce..."

Check Out the Noisette DIY Theremin | Zeppelin Design Labs

video upload by Musical Miscellany

"I've built a few kits from ‪@zeppelindesign‬ in the past and decided to try their latest offering, the Noisette. This particular kit allows you to build a DIY optical theremin. It's a fun little project that sounds amazing with effects.

You can purchase the kit here: https://zeppelindesignlabs.com/produc...

Intro - 0:00
Build Process - 0:57
Calibrating & Testing - 2:39
Demo with FX - 3:15"

"The Noisette Optical Theremin is really fun to play! The pitch and volume of the audio signal is controlled by 2 light sensors — you can alter the sound by shielding the amount of light that reaches the sensors. We offer the Noisette as a Build-it-yourself kit that’s fun and easy to assemble – soldering is required. For adults of all ages and kids as young as 8 years old, alongside a qualified adult.

Two Optical sensors to control pitch and volume

Two knobs to control master volume and wave shape

On-board speaker

Headphone or Line Out Jack

30 page, assembly manual, with over 100 assembly photographs

Only 18 parts that need to be assembled to the circuit board"

CLICK FOR MORE »

Building a Rings Kit from Sound Study Modular

video upload by Musical Miscellany

"I got this DIY Rings kit - alongside the Plaits kit - from Sound Study Modular in December when they were on sale for the holidays. Mutable Instruments Rings is one of the most popular Eurorack modules of all time. This is their clone." Intro - 0:00
Build Process - 1:24
Errata - 5:22
Audio Demo - 6:06
Summary - 11:15

https://buymeacoffee.com/musicalmiscellany

Building a Plaits Kit from Sound Study Modular

video upload by Musical Miscellany

"I'm still sick but feeling quite a bit better and I'm having the urge to build something. I got this kit in December when they were on sale for the holidays. It's Sound Study Modular's clone of Mutable Instruments Plaits.

Intro - 0:00
Build Process - 1:25
How Does it Work - 6:47
Audio Demo - 7:37
Final Thoughts - 11:43

Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/musicalmisce..."

See more DIY Musical Projects here:

What does the Solar Voltages Module do? (SetonixSynth & Tidbit Audio DIY kit)

video upload by Musical Miscellany

"I saw this module and wondered what it did. Since it's a DIY kit and it's really affordable... I decided to build it and post this video for anyone else with the same question.

Purchase the kit here: https://www.setonixsynth.com/shop/p/s...

Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/musicalmisce..."

Musical DIY Projects by Musical Miscellany

Overlooked Module #16: Tear Apart Tapes Microfuzz

video upload by Musical Miscellany

"For the next episode of Overlooked Modules, I'm taking a look at the Microfuzz from Tear Apart Tapes. This is a 3HP Eurorack adaptation of the single transistor fuzz effect (commonly called the bazz fuss circuit). It's a one trick pony but it's a cool trick.

Visit Tear Apart Tapes' Etsy page: https://www.etsy.com/shop/TearApartTapes

Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/musicalmisce..."

Overlooked Modules Playlist

First Patch with First Contact (from SetonixSynth & Tidbit Audio)

video upload by Musical Miscellany

"I bought this gadget at Knobcon 2024 but I'm just now getting around to making my first patch with it. I took an aquarium pump and put it into a pilsner glass full of water, then integrated the output with a couple Eurorack oscillators. The result is surprisingly pleasing.

You can purchase the First Contact preamp here: https://www.setonixsynth.com/shop/p/f...

And the contact mic I used here: https://tidbitaudio.com/products/wate...

Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/musicalmisce...

New Stylophone Theremin Demo by Musical Miscellany

I Received My Stylophone Theremin (& I really like it) video upload by Musical Miscellany

"Dubreq unveiled the Stylophone Theremin at Winter NAMM. I pre-ordered one on the first day it was available. My Stylophone Theremin arrived on Black Friday. It's a surprisingly powerful little synth that can create all matter of sounds from simple to sinister.

Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/musicalmisce..."

You can find the announcement post here, and additional demos here.

What is a Bleepler? (DIY kit from LoBlast)

video upload by Musical Miscellany

"I discovered this little gadget at Knobcon 12 in September and decided to build one for myself. This is a cross between a fidget toy and a synthesizer. It's easy to build and a lot of fun to play with. It's the Bleepler!

You can purchase one here: https://loblast.com/store/p/bleepler-...

Intro - 0:00
Backstory - 0:27
Build - 1:46
Demo - 2:56
My Thoughts - 3:46
Jam - 4:40"

Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/musicalmisce...

See the LoBlast label below for more including Knobcon coverage of Bleepler.

Overlooked Module #15: EH! (Eurorack Hardware) Ring

video upload by Musical Miscellany

"Welcome to another episode of Overlooked Modules, the series where I take a look at some of the lesser known gems of the Eurorack world. Today, I'll be take a closer look at the Ring module from EH! (Eurorack Hardware). This is a passive dual ring modulator circuit in 4hp.

Here is the module page: https://www.eurorackhardware.com/RING...

And check out the rest of the series here: [playlist below]

Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/musicalmisce...

Overlooked Modules

Introducing the Biotron from Playtronica (bioelectric MIDI controller)

video upload by Musical Miscellany

"The folks at Playtronica asked me to help them test the Biotron and be one of the first to show it off to the world. I really appreciate the honor. This is a small MIDI device designed to interact with plants. It's really cool!

You can purchase a Biotron here: https://shop.playtronica.com/products...
Promotional Code: KFLHVR10 (saves you 10% at checkout)

Intro & Overview - 0:00
Connections & calibration - 2:01
Setup with website - 3:14
Using w/online synthesizers - 4:19
Using w/Alchemy - 8:56
Final Thoughts - 11:37

Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/musicalmisce..."



Discover Biotron, the musical instrument that transforms plants into sound.

Play with your favorite plant and let nature compose your music. As the plant's natural electrical properties change, the sound evolves, creating a unique musical experience every time.

Ready to get started? Connect Biotron to a computer, tablet, or smartphone, and play with our online synth or your favorite music software/hardware. With no noticeable latency, Biotron responds just like any other MIDI controller.

- Play using plants as your instrument
- Change the sound based on the plant's natural responses
- Interact with nature to create music
- No musical skill needed
- Connect Biotron to your PC, phone, or tablet using the provided USB cable.
- Attach the electrodes to your plant. Ensure they are securely connected to the stems or leaves for optimal conductivity.
- Open Google Chrome and navigate to synth.playtronica.com, then choose any synth you like. Alternatively, use your preferred music software or hardware that accepts MIDI input.
- Interact with your plant by moving your hands near it, touching its leaves, or adjusting environmental factors like light and moisture to influence the sound.
- Experience the unique music generated by your plant's natural electrical activity translated into MIDI signals
- Biotron MIDI-controller and packaging
- USB-C cable is sold separately to reduce waste in case you have one already
- Alligator clips and patches are also not included, make sure you add whichever you need

Zlob Modular Diode Chaos Module (built at Knobcon 12) Demo

video upload by Musical Miscellany

"I built this module during a DIY Class at Knobcon. Several of you asked for a demo so here you go. I demonstrate the module using my oscilloscope and also show how it sounds controlling some oscillators.

You can purchase the Diode Chaos here: https://zlobmodular.com/product/diode..."

Tiny Synths on the Floor (& a guitar for good measure)

video upload by Musical Miscellany

"I'm back from Knobcon and inspired to do a little improv with some tiny synths. I used the Tele Blender from Error Instruments, MoPho from Dave Smith Instruments, Volca Beats/Bass/Mix from KORG, Boeska Mix-400, and the Boss RE-202 Space Echo. I even threw in a guitar played with E-Bow for good measure.

Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/musicalmisce..."

Knobcon 2024 Videos by Musical Miscellany

video uploads by Musical Miscellany

Playlist:

1. My Favorite Products at Knobcon 12 (2024)

Knobcon concluded this past Sunday but I wanted to make this video while it was all still fresh in my mind. I talk about my 5 favorite products that I saw there. It was a great time.

0:00 - Introduction
0:43 - 1. Biggest Foot | https://swampflux.com
1:34 - 2. Terra | https://somasynths.com
2:31 - 3. Vanilla Synth | https://www.musonics.com
3:26 - 4. Zen Harp | https://museelectronicinstruments.com
4:14 - 5. Demon Box | https://www.eternalresearch.com
5:31 - First Contact (honorable mention) | https://tidbitaudio.com
6:37 - Conclusion

2. Knobcon 12: Sunday DIY Workshop (2024)

Zlob Modular hosted a DIY workshop at Knobcon 12 in Chicago. We built a Diode Chaos module and tested it. It was a lot of fun.

3. Players Club at Knobcon 12 (2024)

There are 3 live music stages at Knobcon on Saturday night. Here is a quick excerpt from the Players Club stage.

4. Big Room at Knobcon 12 (2024)

Knobcon has 3 stages for live music on Saturday night. Here are a couple performance excerpts from the Big Room.

5. Chill Out Room at Knobcon 12 (2024)

Knobcon has live performances on 3 different stages Saturday evening. Here are a couple performance excerpts from the Chill Out Room.

6. Knobcon 12 in 1 Minute (2024)

Here are a few of the many things going on at Knobcon 12 in Chicago this weekend. There’s so much to see and do. It’s downright overwhelming but a heckuva lotta fun!

7. Knobcon 12: Saturday Show Floor (2024)

Here’s a quick walkthrough of the show floor at Knobcon 12. Needless to say, this isn’t everything, but it will give you an idea of how much stuff is there.

8. Knobcon 12: Friday Opening Reception (2024)

The Knobcon opening reception signals the start of the annual 3-day event. This means Knobcon 12 is officially underway. Here’s a few quick snippets of the live performances.

9. Arriving at Knobcon 12 (2024)

I made it to Knobcon 12 in Chicago! Stay tuned to my channel. I plan to post more vids all weekend long.

The Amazing Rise, Fall, & Resurgence of Dubreq (the Stylophone company)

video upload by Musical Miscellany

"This is a follow up to a previous video I posted on the Stylophone pocket organ [posted here]. In this video I go over every Stylophone ever made from 1967 to 2024. I hope it is informative to someone."

Intro - 0:00
The Vintage Era - 1:19
The Modern Era - 4:33
Conclusion - 9:29

What is a MIDIPan? (digital handpan/ steel tongue drum)

video upload by Musical Miscellany

"Shiela from @midi_in sent me her latest creation to check out. This is the MIDIPan which is a digital reimagining of a handpan or steel tongue drum. It's similar to her previous product, the MIDIKalimba [posted here], but feels very different to play."

Intro - 0:00
Product Overview - 1:13
Comparing to a steel tongue drum - 2:00
Using with a mobile device - 4:18
Non-handpan sounds - 4:53
Percussion mode - 6:01
Final Thoughts - 6:46