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"Powerful polysynth by the Black Corporation, loosely based on the famous, ultra-rare Polykobol. At the moment we are waiting to get the 24V power supply to test this. Packing 6GBP."
XILS-lab lovingly lavishes virtual makeover on acclaimed PolyKB III virtual instrument plug-in, providing new hi-res UI and more with Version 3.6.3
“Since starting XILS-lab, the rarified and revered RSF PolyKobol II analogue polysynth from France has always held a special musical place in our hearts — the true destination of our ongoing journey to create one of the best-sounding virtual analogue synthesizers available today. Tweaking our algorithms for a better sound with less CPU load, we’ve never stopped working on PolyKB III, always adding new features.”
- XILS-lab CEO Xavier Oudin, 2023
GRENOBLE, FRANCE: XILS-lab is proud to take PolyKB III to Version 3.6.3 status — lovingly lavishing the virtual instrument plug-in par excellence with a new hi-res UI (User Interface) and associated faster UI engine alongside full Apple Silicon compatibility and VST3 support, while ensuring that it remains one of the best-sounding virtual analogue synthesizers available, thousands of development man-hours after first being launched in its original PolyKB incarnation as the then-fledgling virtual instrument and effect plug-in-specialising software company’s second product release way back in May 2010 — as of March 14…
Like its predecessors, dating all the way back to a May 2010 release in its original (PolyKB) incarnation, the latest Version 3.6.3 of PolyKB III truly captures the sound and spirit of the rarified and revered RSF PolyKobol II analogue polysynth from France — one that surely should have made more of a musical mark in its own right with advanced analogue waveform-morphing oscillators well ahead of their time, yet sadly saw the demise of its innovative creators, completely out of touch with 1983’s untimely arrival of Yamaha’s digital dominance-triggering DX7 super- seller (shifting upwards of 200,000 units, compared to the miserly 40 units, each costing several times that of a DX7, managed by RSF before it ran into financial difficulties) — to include its most revolutionary feature: analogue waveform-morphing oscillators.
On the face of it, then, those analogue waveform-morphing oscillators — providing instant access to hundreds of different analogue- modelled free-running oscillator waveforms, which is far more than those provided by other virtual instrument plug-ins, including those that switch between oscillator sets — are available for all to see clearly now in Version 3.6.3 of PolyKB III, thanks to its new hi-res UI. Ultimately, they can be dynamically modulated by a number of sources.
When working with the latest Version 3.6.3 of PolyKB III, there are also two gorgeous, creamy-sounding multi-mode filters — VCF 1 and VCF 2 — to play with, each of which is self-resonating in all modes while also making use of XILS-lab’s proprietary 0df (Zero Delay Feedback) technology. There are also three analogue-modelled envelopes — ADSR1, ADSR2, and ADSR3 — with time multiplication and looping facilities, all working together with two LFOs (Low Frequency Oscillators) — LFO1 and LFO2 — to deliver a fat, warm, and instantly inspiring ‘analogue’ sound like no other.
Of course, even when first released to the musical masses in December 2016, PolyKB III would not be worthy of joining XILS-lab’s ever- expanding virtual instrument lineup if it did not include innovative and exclusive features — features like each voice having its own modulation engine or, indeed, using the polyphonic SEQUENCER as a giant 128-step, four-line/16-destination so-called ‘Step Sequencer Modulator’ making it fit for being propelled well and truly into the 21st Century! Creatively, this allows users to sculpt not only the most detailed trance- gate patterns, but also slides and incredible rhythmic patterns. Put it this way: with PolyKB III it is possible to modulate anything with anything!
And it is also possible to make each note sound different: the Voice XY module acts as a single-note quad XY modifier — with total control over the creation of subtle or wild variations for each note in a 2D window with four different parameters, while the Space XY module makes creating a 3D space a breeze — users can freely place each note in a three-dimensional space to build otherwise unachievable ‘stereoscapes’ with movement induced by inbuilt chaotic functions. It is fair to say that users have never had so much creative control over the stereo field! Furthermore, both modes can be combined with the True Unison engine, producing dazzlingly deep sounds that will musically take anyone’s breath away and immediately take pride of place in any mix.
Meanwhile, with its new hi-res UI and associated faster UI engine alongside full Apple Silicon compatibility and VST3 support vying for attention and distinguishing the latest Version 3.6.3 of PolyKB III from its acclaimed predecessors while it readily remains one of the best-sounding virtual analogue synthesizers available, XILS-lab CEO Xavier Oudin is justifiably proud of how far it has come and where it is going: “Since starting XILS-lab, the rarified and revered RSF PolyKobol II analogue polysynth from France has always held a special musical place in our hearts — the true destination of our ongoing journey to create one of the best-sounding virtual analogue synthesizers available today. Tweaking our algorithms for a better sound with less CPU load, we’ve never stopped working on PolyKB III, always adding new features.”
The latest Version 3.6.3 of PolyKB III is available to purchase as an iLok-protected virtual instrument plug-in (including computer-based authorisation), priced at an introductory promo price of €59.00 EUR until April 16, 2023 — rising thereafter to its regular price of €199.00 EUR — directly from XILS-lab via its dedicated webpage, which also includes more in-depth information, here: https://www.xils-lab.com/products/polykb-iii-&-ii-p-159.html
"Up for grabs is a rare Kijimi from Black Corp. A beautiful completely analog 8 voice synth which is a spot on Polykobol clone.
We acquired this Kijimi from Synthwave icon Com Truise last year.
Comes w/ power supply."
"Folks this is a really cool piece. I took this in recently as part of a large gear swap. There was a lot of buzz last year about this synth called Kimji by Black Corporation of Japan. I believe they may have only made 10 or so of these as part of a very limited initial run. This is serial number 1278. It includes the original box. There is no physical manual but there is one accessible online. The unit is in mint condition and the pictures are of the actual unit you will unbox.
The Black Corporation Kijimi is a faithful recreation of the very rare and highly sought after French wonder-synth the RSF Polykobol. Originally released in 1979 the PolyKobol MK1 was restricted to only 30 units worldwide and is considered to be one of those most significant synths developed in this era.
Kijimi is an 8 voice polyphonic synthesizer with two continuously variable oscillators per voice, an incredible modulation section, MPE compatibility, preset storage and recall and build quality that is enviable to say the very least.
Kijimi’s inspiration, the Polykobol was a synth that was very much ahead of its time, providing a wealth of unique features and tone shaping options that even to this day stand out, such as the continuously variable wave shaping, open and easily assignable modulation section with 5 sources and multiple destinations and a rich, interesting filter tone.
Owning an original RSF Polykobol is, even for the most diehard collector almost impossible. Just like with their Deckards Dream CS-80 inspired powerhouse, Black Corporation have again made one of the most inaccessible synths, accessible for everyone.
Kijimi is another standout synthesizer from Black Corporation, delivering the sound quality, aesthetics and workflow of a Polykobol with all the mod cons you’d expect from a modern machine.
The main features of the Black Corporation Kijimi include
8 voice polyphonic analogue synthesizer
Inspired by the legendary RSF Polykobol
CRN3340 based VCO’s
SSM2040 based vilter
Polyphonic aftertouch
MPE compatible"
"There are very few demos of the legendary and rare Polykobol II. To me the best ones are by Sebastien Moumon, on YouTube. I decided to try to recreate (as accurately as possible) the first 2.5 minutes of this demo, my favorite one: [embedded below]
I wanted to see how close I could get with the Kijimi. Sebastien used quite a bit of reverb and delay on this demo, and I tried to recreate those as accurately as possible too."
"Black Corporation's Kijimi and Keith McMillen's K-Board Pro 4 make a stellar pair: and synth and controller that combine to offer enormous expressive potential via MPE.
Kijimi is an eight-voice analog synth based on the super rare RSF Polykobol. It not only allows for MPE control, but features a rich set of internal modulation options great for adventurous synthesists and sound designers.
K-Board Pro 4 is an MPE-capable MIDI keyboard, providing extended expressive control with a familiar feel and user interface. By treating each key like an XYZ expression pad, KBP4 provides uncommon musical potential to keyboardists.
"Barely used, factory built Black Corporation Kijimi. This is an amazingly expressive analog polysynth with gorgeous, ever evolving sound potential. Smoke free home, perfect physical and operating condition. Includes original box and psu.
KIJIMI FEATURES
Analog polyphonic synthesizer based on the rare RSF Polykobol
Eight voices, complete with full MPE support
Endless potential for evolving souds
Two oscillators and one sub oscillator per voice
Oscillators feature continuously variable wave shape from triangle to pulse
Individual semitone coarse tuning for each oscillator, with fine tuning for Osc. 2
Switchable sync from Osc 1-2 or 2-1
Lowpass filter with tons of modulation options
Filter frequency offers direct control attenuators for velocity, aftertouch, ADSR, and key tracking
Filter resonance with direct control attenuators for velocity and aftertouch
Two cycling ADSR envelopes with multiple speed range options
Global portamento control
Two LFOs with waveshape selection and dedicated AR envelopes for LFO intensity
Extensive modulation routing, with per-source multiple destination selection
Positive or negative modulation selectable via modulation routing interface
LFO1, LFO2, ADSR2, VCO2, Velocity, and Aftertouch are all freely assignable to multiple parameters
Unison mode for staggeringly huge sounds
Oscillator waveshape modulation is basically the coolest sound ever heard out of an analog polysynth."
This one was spotted and sent in via xonox who noticed the following: "No mention is made in the auction but there is AFX scratched on the surface of the machine. According to Ed DMX (DMX Krew), Aphex Twin used one on his early tracks. Interview here. It is not my auction, i have no insider knowledge on anything either. Is it possible it's indeed one of AFX's drum machines or is it some classic AFX prank ?"
The following is the full description from the listing saved for the archives:
"Up for sale a unique extremely rare vintage drum machine. impossible to find it in another place. Many years ago I found this diamond and made the service in a professional workshop. Please note - this is an old gear for the collection and synth enthusiasts, this drum machine is in working condition, but I will not accept any returns and no compensation after the sale - please accept it. These are the first innovative electronic music devices and therefore you can see in the pictures the old technology of plastic coatings and touch buttons have traces of use, but all functions and buttons are well work.- It runs on 220 volt AC.The sound of this beast is very unique, the sound structure and flow are capable of creating incredible emotions and creative potency. The sound is incredibly relevant, I give a detailed description below. The package will be sent internationally, I pack the electronics well — a double strong box and a lot of bubble — look at my seller feedback.
"Ruben and Serge Fernandez are originating in Tarbes in the south-west of France;in 1972 whereas they start to arrange small modules of sound traffics, they discover the world of the synthetizers thanks to Moog and decide to create their characteristic synthé. In September 1975 they settle in Toulouse to finish their studies, a licence in data processing (Cobol language) for Ruben and a IUT of electric genius for Serge. They first of all build modules to measures at the request of buddies Toulousains musicians.Modular Series 11 are born in 1976.
At the end of 1982 RSF SA is in liquidation and the Company ARIA in Aston in Ariège directed by Mr. Baumesnil repurchases RSF for 100.000 Francs with stock, half of the personnel, a prototype of limps at rate/rhythm the DD10, Ruben Fernandez becomes technical director then and preserves the design of the products.The motivation of ARIA is to diversify its activities and thus wishes that department RSF be very quickly profitable.First Polykobol 2 are finally delivered to the summer 1983 after more than one year of waiting for certain customers who had ordered and paid in advance.The polysequencor and the dynamic keyboard do not walk and the instability of the machine is catastrophic, in spite of a fabulous sound it is a total failure moreover the price of 60.000 Francs the reserve with an elite, Yamaha leaves at the same time the DX7 for 15.000 francs, the numerical revolution starts, exit the analogical monsters.
RSF is now a mark of legend, these instruments are from now on very required for their great sound qualities and the scarcity made climb the prices on the second-hand market.Glory is like often posthumous!"
"The Cat SRM (series revision model) was introduced in 1977 to replace the original Cat and is generally considered the best version as it featured the legendary SSM 2040 filter, one of the best sounding filters only used in a handful of other synths, to my knowledge those being the RSF Kobol, Polykobol and the early revision Prophet 5's. Later Cat's used the SSM 2044 filter, another good filter but not quite the same..."
Note: Kijimi is actually based on the RSF Kobol mono synth. via the creator himself, Roman Filippov: "It’s a polyphonic kobol more than polykobol, since it uses ssm2040-like filters, not ssm2044"
"Here's an update on Black Corporation's two rack-mount analog synthesizers, Deckard's Dream and the Kijimi."
Deckard's Dream - Gear Guide - Superbooth 2018
Published on May 8, 2018 FACTmagazine
"FACT was at Berlin synth show Superbooth last week, where we tried out all the latest and greatest synth gear.
At Black Corporation's booth we got a sneak preview of Kijimi, a new eight-voice instrument inspired by a rare French polysynth from the 1970s. While we were there, we couldn't resist also checking out Deckard's Dream, the company's existing synth based on the Yamaha CS-80 – the synth used by Vangelis to write the classic Blade Runner score.
Watch above for an overview of the synth and a demonstration of its impressive sound engine."
Black Corporation Kijimi - Superbooth 2018 Published on May 5, 2018 Sound On Sound magazine
Note: Kijimi is actually based on the RSF Kobol mono synth. via the creator himself, Roman Filippov: "It’s a polyphonic kobol more than polykobol, since it uses ssm2040-like filters, not ssm2044"
"The Kijimi from Black Corporation is a modern recreation of the legendary RSF Polykobol synthesizer. Find out more..."
Superbooth 2018 Kijimi Poly KB Replicant Published on May 5, 2018 sonicstate
"A look at the new Kijimi Poly Kobol poly from Balck Corporation"
Published on May 5, 2018 Future Music Magazine
"The Black Corporation gave us our first proper look at the Kijimi, which is not just your average clone, but a complete re-imagining of the late ‘70s synth, the RSF Polykobol."
XILS-lab lovingly lavishes virtual makeover on acclaimed PolyKB III virtual instrument plug-in, providing new hi-res UI and more with Version 3.6.3
"Folks this is a really cool piece. I took this in recently as part of a large gear swap. There was a lot of buzz last year about this synth called Kimji by Black Corporation of Japan. I believe they may have only made 10 or so of these as part of a very limited initial run. This is serial number 1278. It includes the original box. There is no physical manual but there is one accessible online. The unit is in mint condition and the pictures are of the actual unit you will unbox.
KIJIMI FEATURES
