"The Demon Box is more than an instrument. It’s a portal where DMX, MIDI, Eurorack, and built-in lighting converge, transforming hidden energy into real-time sound, light, and motion.
You’ve seen what the Demon Box can do, now it’s time to go deeper.This video shows how to unlock its full potential, bending these forces into a single living entity you can shape, route, and command."
Note the videos above are from 2025. The video below is new. You can find additional demos in previous posts. See dealers on the right for pricing and availability.
"Step into the dark, unpredictable world of the Demon Box — Eternal Research's brutal and experimental hardware synthesizer readymade for industrial techno, noise, drone, and underground electronic music. In this video, we explore the raw sonic power and chaos that make the Demon Box a unique tool for modular synth performers, sound designers, and hardware synth lovers."
Chapters:
00:00 - Intro
00:16 - Features
03:17 - Moog Messenger
04:11 - Vhikk X + Lacrima
05:19 - Four Seas + Cosmic Debris
06:45 - Nord Drum
06:58 - Warp Core + Umbra + Desmodus
Eternal Research Demon Box Summon the sounds of electromagnetic oddities with Demon Box from Eternal Research, an innovative instrument that condenses the practice of using EMF for audio and control signals in a unified device. At the top surface of the Demon Box's triangular enclosure, a literal platform for audio experimentation awaits. Here, three channels of EMF inductor pickups are arranged in a nested spiral formation, which can be used to create unique tones and control signals by interacting with any object that produces EMF near the inductors. Power tools, FM radios, eBows, tuning forks, and other personal electronics become diverse sources for synthesizing tones, controlling modular synths, and even producing MIDI signals. Turning the inaudible waves of ambient and ubiquitous electro-ephemera into creative signal sources, the Demon Box offers a deep well of musical meaning-making waiting to be discovered.
"In this in-depth demo and review, we explore the GS MUSIC Bree 6 keyboard — a 6-voice VCO-based analog synthesizer with a fully analog signal path, built-in chorus, delay, arpeggiator, and sequencer. If you love that vintage-meets-modern sound, this one might surprise you.
From raw oscillator tones to lush stereo pads and punchy basses, I break down what makes this synth special — including its unique double/triple arpeggiator modes, MPE compatibility, and rich, characterful sound that sits somewhere between classic Roland-style synths and something entirely new.
If you’re into synths like the Roland Jupiter-8 or Roland Juno-106, this is one you’ll want to hear.
🔍 What’s Covered Sound demo (full track made entirely on the Bree 6) Oscillator section: saw, pulse, sub oscillator 24dB analog low-pass filter with resonance & key tracking Dual ADSR envelopes & fast modulation Voice modes: poly, mono, unison & stereo spread Built-in chorus & analog-style delay Unique arpeggiator (double & triple note modes) Sequencer workflow & performance features MPE support & expressive control
🎛️ This isn’t just another vintage clone. The Bree 6 blends:
Raw VCO tone with modern reliability Hands-on workflow (minimal menu diving) A distinct character that feels alive and immediate A surprising amount of depth for a single-oscillator synth 🎧 Who Is This For? Analog synth lovers Producers looking for fat, mix-ready tones Fans of classic Roland-style sound with modern features Anyone wanting a hands-on, inspiring instrument"
We’re proud to present the Bree6 Keyboard, our first synthesizer with an integrated keyboard, designed and produced in Argentina for the world. 💙
Built on a six-voice analog architecture, it delivers a powerful and expressive sound engine capable of everything from solid basses and leads to rich, evolving pads. Now expanded with a built-in sequencer and advanced arpeggiator, it becomes a complete performance and composition tool.
With its one-knob-per-function interface, semi-weighted keybed with velocity and aftertouch, and fully analog signal path, the Bree6 Keyboard is designed for immediate, hands-on control—no menu diving. Immediate Control. No Menu Diving.
The Bree6 Keyboard version is designed to deliver an immediate and intuitive hands-on experience, eliminating the need for deep menu navigation. Its interface follows a one-knob-per-function philosophy, providing direct access to all key parameters for fast and precise sound shaping.
"In this video I demo patches 52 - 76 from the Synth Universe Sound Bank, a bank of 101 pro quality analog sounds for the Dreadbox Murmux Adept synthesizer, including pads, poly synths, strings, chimes, brass, leads, bass, keys, and ambient."
Timestamps
00:00 Long playing fifths
00:34 Sync harpsi
00:54 Wailing string
01:34 Mellow rising
02:16 Cloud pad triangles
03:11 Velo plucks
03:53 Raw slow bass
04:20 Samson lead
04:49 Recollections
05:31 Slow pitch poly
06:08 Super mellow
06:48 FM resonance
07:08 Sync bass down sweep
07:41 Analog filter trail
08:19 Meditative
09:06 Rich release keys
09:37 Brass pad 1
10:12 Coarse FM Lead
10:40 Transformation
11:23 Fading filter mod
11:54 Rich riser
12:30 Sync lute
13:03 String pad
13:45 Rising resonance
14:13 Bright poly pluck
"In this video I demo patches 77 - 101 from the Synth Universe Sound Bank, a bank of 101 pro quality analog sounds for the Dreadbox Murmux Adept synthesizer, including pads, poly synths, strings, chimes, brass, leads, bass, keys, and ambient."
Timestamps
00:00 Filter attack keys
00:25 Nasty bass
00:49 Plaintive lead
01:27 Resonant LFO bell
02:20 Thick detuned poly
02:46 Fluttering analog pad
03:28 Analog epiano
03:57 Raw ensemble
04:39 Ethereal sweep
05:22 Spectral promise
05:59 Mellow mod pluck
06:25 Brass pad 2
06:55 Slow Q sine
07:35 Triangle sync lead
07:58 Ambient calm
08:45 Thoughtful lead
09:11 Detuned brass
09:36 Kick sub
09:57 Hi hats
10:18 Open hat & crash
10:37 Snare
10:52 Ghost space
11:34 Effected circuits
12:16 Sonic boom
12:44 Deep sea bubbles
The Sh*t Synth - Walkthrough video upload by CROW HILL XTRAS
Press release follows:
The Crow Hill Company turns to extensive and rare collection to turn out THE SH*T SYNTH as compendium of 48 circuit-, wave- and sample-bent instruments
EDINBURGH, UK: The Crow Hill Company is proud to turn to its own extensive and rare collection of hardware to turn out THE SH*T SYNTH — available as a compendium of 48 circuit-, wave- and sample-bent instruments inspired by some of the Edinburgh-based enterprise’s eclectic musical favourites (spanning the likes of Aphex Twin, Boards Of Canada, Joe Maus, Jon Brion, Laurie Spiegel, Radiohead, Throbbing Gristle, and Yazoo) to create something that they collectively ask: is it just shit or ‘the shit’? — as of April 7…
Whatever way anyone chooses to read into the titling of THE SH*T SYNTH as the latest entry into The Crow Hill’s ongoing ORIGINS series of sample-based virtual instrument plug-ins, one thing is for sure: it readily represents a broad selection of three categories of 16 workhorse instruments each, effectively wrapped up into a single plug-in designed to bring a cohesive approach to making music more edgy, lo-fi, retro, and — swimming against the technological tide of so-called progress — decidedly AI (Artificial Intelligence) slop-free. From pianos to strings, plucks, beeps, bass, and pads, the compendium that is THE SH*T SYNTH has been lovingly sculpted by the Edinburgh-based enterprise’s media composer and ‘samplist-in-residence’ Christian Henson to take the hassle out of making existing sounds less refined, catering to those looking for an entirely new bank of Mellotron-style sounds as well as synths that have been long forgotten — for good reason, too!
"I just bought the Waldorf Protein. They said it is their entry level, so I unboxed it, did a test drive, created some own patches and guess what: "Bang!" a tight techno track was born.
🎧 Original "Bang!" track (the one born from frustration): [below]
It is a lovely wavetable synth: portable (fits my setup perfectly), flexible and most importantly: accessible! Sure, there are menus and a shift button for deeper tweaks, but most of the time you just coast on the sound, dialing it in directly with the tons of hands-on knobs. How cool is that?
Watch the full video: unboxing, preset demos and evolution, honest critique, Nicolai patch building which lead to the 'Bang!' track."
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.
The ROLAND S-1 "Electric Motion" sound bank consists of 48 patterns, each containing a patch and sequence, designed to create synth, bass and sequencer lines, evolving tones, perfect for electronic music.
Soundbank Description
The 'Electric Motion' soundbank is an expansion for the ROLAND S-1 synthesizer.Presets are designed to inspire creativity and elevate compositions, offering ready-to-use sounds straight out of the box without the need for external effects or post-processing.
Detailed instructions are included, patterns are loaded from 2-01 to 4-16 (48 patterns)
Ready-to-Use: All sounds are provided as dry demos (no external effects or post-processing added to the demo tracks), allowing users to understand their raw potential within the ROLAND S-1 effects section.
"The Sonicware LIVEN Ambient Ø "Sci-Fi Scape" Soundbank is a collection of 40 custom patterns designed for creating rich atmospheric pads, deep textures, and dark, evolving tones, ideal for ambient, cinematic, and experimental electronic music.
The 'Sci-Fi Scape' soundbank is an expansion for the Sonicware LIVEN Ambient Ø synthesizer.The included presets are designed to inspire creativity and elevate compositions, offering ready-to-use sounds straight out of the box without the need for external effects or post-processing.
Key Features:
Focus on Sci-Fi : The sounds are specifically crafted for ambient, dark ambient, cinematic, and experimental genres.
Diverse Tones: The collection includes various pads, drones, textures, and evolving tones.
Ready-to-Use: All sounds are provided as dry demos (no external effects or post-processing added to the demo tracks), allowing users to understand their raw potential within the LIVEN Ambient Ø's powerful effects section.
Made by A.Kav
Liven ® is a registered trademark of Sonicware which owns all rights on it. The use of the registered mark here is only indicative of the type of instruments our product is intended for"
"Here the Gligli's Overcycler, a new 6 voice hybrid synthesizer.
The oscillator section is the strong point of this synth, very flexible with 6 ways to deeply modulate the 2 oscillators. Then the SSM filters comes and the envelopes with several curves to choose ends up this simple but very efficient synth.
No FX, EQ or Comp has been added to the raw sound of the synth. Only normalizing (the output level is not very high).
Check out the Gligli's online shop, the synth is available sometimes, but every batch is sold out very fast: https://gligli.store/fr/
"I recently finished building the Weston Precision Audio Pro2021 from the Synthcube.com kit. It was an amazing experience to build an entire synth from a giant box of parts, and I had a ton of fun. This synth is a clone of the venerable Sequential Pro One from the early 80s and it sounds incredible. It may seem limited but it offers tons of sound design capabilities, and it's certainly a lot of fun to play. Like with most synths, once you add reverb and delay you can't really go wrong.
This is just an informal, not very well prepared noodle on it. The Pro2021 has midi and CV control options on the back panel, and here I'm using my modular rack to drive the clock which drives the arpeggiator rate. The audio outs are going into the modular's mixer, and effects are from the Strymon Starlab and Veno-Echo. This particular patch is highlighting the oscillator sync feature, which I love the sound of. The internal LFO is modulating the pitch of Osc 1 and Osc 2 is set to triangle wave. Sounds big and fat and crisp and clean all at the same time. Cheers!"
Fractal Audio VP4... with a Synthesizer. Is it any good?
"Oddly, when researching the VP4, I couldn't find any demos of it being used with a synth, so I bought it anyway to see if it would be a good match. And yes, most emphatically yes, it is! It was immediately apparent they would go well together - and having only played around with the VP4 for a couple of hours, I thought this video might help others decide if it could work for them.
Obviously, the VP4 does so much more than Drive, Chorus, Delay and Reverb, but those are bread-n-butter effects, so I stuck with those for this quick sound demo. I've since messed around with other effects in the VP4, and found all kinds of great sounds.
The synth is a Weston Precision Audio Pro2021 - a clone of the legendary Sequential Pro One. I built this from a DIY kit I bought from SynthCube.com. It's a simple mono-synth, with no built in effects, and it really does sound excellent - and even more so with a little effects (or a lot of effects). It's filter is super resonant and easily gets squelchy, but that enables some of the greatest sounds when you play with the cutoff knob. ;-)
The recording is direct mono out from the synth into the VP4, stereo out from the VP4 to the iRig Pro Duo that's connected to my old iPhone 12. I opened the audio file in Presonus StudioOne to see if it needed some EQ or compression or normalizing, but I decided to leave it completely raw. I made no changes to the audio whatsoever.
So, I am completely sold on the VP4. I have a load of other effects pedals, including the Eventide H90, and this thing is amazing. The quality of the effects and the build are absolutely top notch, and the user interface is so easy to use right out of the box. It's way way way easier to mess with than the H90...
Note the above demos are from two years ago, which means the Kagouyar has been over two years in the making.
Press release from today follows:
"The kagouyar is a semi modular polyphonic virtual analogue synthesizer. It combines ease of use with endless sonic possibilities. Featuring cutting-edge technology, it delivers an analog feel while offering features never seen in vintage synthesizers.
Its intuitive design means no menus, no hassle – just pure, hands-on sound exploration. Patch, tweak, and create effortlessly with tactile switches and a powerful modulation matrix.
With 3 oscillators per voice and 4-voice polyphony, the Kagouyar offers an endless palette of textures – from lush, ambient layers to raw, glitchy soundscapes. The 7 LFOs let you dive deep into complex rhythms and evolving soundscapes, making your music feel alive and constantly evolving.
Compact and versatile, the Kagouyar is perfect for drone performances, ambient music, or hard-hitting techno. Take it to your next gig or keep it in the heart of your studio. Unleash your creativity with this unique synthesizer!
"The e7 is a polyphonic analog desktop synthesizer from Argentina by GS Music that sounds lively and rich and looks beautiful. Easy to use, expressively to play.
It reminds me of some of the best synths ever built but has its own character.
Everything was directly recorded from the outs of the synth into the audio interface. No internal effects nor any additional effects, equalizers, compressors or limiters were used to give you a genuine impression of its raw sound.
Let me know your thoughts.
"What happens when you overdub a rich sounding analog synth like the e7 again and again? And with automation of some parameters like filter cutoff and OSC pitch? How does it sound?
No internal effects nor any additional effects, equalizers, compressors or limiters were used.
"In this video I play original sounds created for the Prophet 5/10 rev 4 synthesizer. I demo patches 1 - 20 from the Synth Universe Prophet 5/10 rev 4 Sound bank: a bank of 80 patches containing a wide range of pads, strings, brass, poly synths, keys, bass, leads, tuned percussion and sines.
Each patch is demonstrated first raw in mono, as output straight from the synth. For the majority of the patches I then repeat the demo but with stereo and reverb or delay applied, so you can hear the sounds more like they would be in a musical context. Please refer to the other three videos for demos of sounds 21 - 80. The time stamps below mean you can easily access specific sounds in this video and compare MONO with STEREO.
In the making of this video no chorus, modulation or thickening effects were used (software or hardware). The only effects used were reverb (mainly the Valhalla Vintage Verb plugin) or delay (Logic native delay plugin). No EQ was used to enhance either the low end or the high end.
The Prophet 5/10 has a single mono audio output, so to create a stereo image I used old-school layering in my DAW. When I recorded each audio take, I also captured MIDI data and used this to record new tracks of the original take. Using the Vintage knob on the Prophet set at 3 means that each MIDI take has subtle differences in pitch, envelopes and filter. Panning and slight detuning of the tracks creates, to my ears, a nice rich stereo image and retains the core sound.
"Day 1: I wanted to make a video of my first impressions of a synthesizer... what happens when I walk up to something I'm not familiar with? No reading the manual, no outside help or distractions, just raw wandering around with it, trying every knob and listening to what each does. I realize my distorted and dirty sound design preferences aren't everyone else's, but I haven't heard the demo that I wanted to hear out of this synth, so I made it myself.
The OB-X8 is a synth I've waited a LONG time for, and so I have some pre-formed bias towards it, but what happens when I get it out of the box, set it up, and just hit record?
This is that video.
I hope you find this useful to see and hear if it might fit into your sound.
I'm sure it will inspire me to make a bunch of patches, like the Moog One and Prophet-10, and countless others before it. I'll make more musical content, if you like this and people ask for it.
This was recorded in stereo, but it is mostly mono because of the default voice panning which is set to mono. I didn't discover the 'page 2' Spread feature until after filming. There are some subtleties with the Vintage knob that might play into its stereo field.
No audio processing whatsoever, as demos should be™"
"For the first time in over 40 years, a legendary analog synth sound returns.
The OB-X8 combines the three different voice architectures of the classic OB-X, OB-Xa, and OB-8 synths into a single incredible instrument. The individual filter types and other unique characteristics of each model have been faithfully reproduced, along with an uncompromising 100% analog signal path, giving you the most authentic and satisfying OB experience possible.
Oberheim is BACK!"
Oberheim OB-X8 INHALT Sound Design Demo No Talking
"My history with Oberheim runs deep. Probably the most important synthesizer for me was the Oberheim OB-8. I connected deeply with its melancholic and midnight music sounding tone which matched very well what I was doing with INHALT at the time. But never to be beguiled by softer emotions, the flick of the unison switch instantly took the OB-8 into an aggressive "body" music. It was the perfect writing tool due to the even tone across all octaves and the fact that its intrinsic musicality was unavoidable. Around the time I got the OB-8 I also got a vintage 2 Voice (thanks for restoring that one Chok) and both were heavily used on many records that I made. Those were my MVP's for many years.
When I received the call from my colleagues at Sequential that not only was a new Oberheim in the works, but that it was to be THE Oberheim, I couldn't wait for the beta testing and sound design to start. And when the prepro unit arrived, I knew that the newly reborn and official Oberheim company, in tandem with the team at Sequential, created something incredible. Something so comprehensive, deep, detailed, featured and yet immediate and simple, with no possibility of making a bad sound. Every sound I made sounded exactly as it should, and they ALL embodied that unmistakable Oberheim sound. That magic that is often imitated but never accomplished. Until now.
I'm not going to get into specs, those have been already covered everywhere, but I will say this: as someone that has used all of the "big" Oberheims, and that has made many records in commercial studios with the OB-8 and a vintage 2 Voice, I can definitively say that this Oberheim does all of those sounds and more. Its charisma changes from filter to filter and it seamlessly traverses from X, Xa to 8 with the Page 2 voice offset and vintage knob, but it ALWAYS sounds like the genuine Oberheim that it is. This incredible team, that I've had the pleasure of working with, has created something that might possibly be the ultimate polyphonic analog synthesizer. And I can't wait to use it on the many upcoming projects at Infinite Power Studios.
This is a recording I made of many of the patches I created for Oberheim and the shipping factory library that will come with the synth.
Please note, the OB-X8 in the video is a prototype unit and I recorded this with a beta firmware. As such, while the synth was largely done there were some changes both to the panel and to the OS that are in the final shipping version (obviously). The OB-X8 was recorded straight into Pro Tools HD and no post processing or fx were added. What you're hearing is the raw synth."
The Sound of the Oberheim OB-X8 - Julian "J3PO" Pollack [custom knobs on this one]
"Oberheim has released a new synthesizer--the first in many decades--the OB-X8. It is a faithful recreation of all three of the classic OB-series synthesizers in one: the OB-X, the OB-Xa, and OB-8. It is an incredible synth.
In this video, you will hear a bunch of presets I created for the OB-X8. Some of my sounds will be included factory with the OB-X8 while most of these presets will appear in a presets pack I will release soon (check www.j3po.net for the release of my official sound bank). This particular unit is an early prototype with non-production knobs. The final production units will look slightly different.
It is important to note that the OB-X8, like the original OB's from back in the day, does NOT contain any onboard effects. In this video, I used some external reverbs and delays to give certain presets the ambience and resonance they deserve. Light compression and limiting was applied for the purpose of uploading to YouTube and balancing the sounds."
"I'm always reluctant to post something in prototype form. When I had this unit it was sonically pretty close. Obvious at a glance are the knobs and 3D printed bender box levers. The synth itself sounds great and such a dream to play with a nice modern key bed."
And the press release:
Oberheim Returns to Operations and Releases Its First New Synth in 35 Years
San Francisco, CA – May 9, 2022 – In a momentous industry development, Oberheim Electronics, one of the most venerated names in synthesizer design, has announced its return to operation to meet the rising global demand for its instruments.
Today, the company is launching its first new product, the OB-X8: an eight-voice polyphonic analog synth that combines all of the key features of the legendary OB-X, OB-Xa, and OB-8 products from the 1980s – including all the original presets that gave them their signature sounds.
“I wanted to come back strong with a new design that brings together the sounds of the greatest instruments from across the OB range, together with the distinctive sound and styling of those synths,” said Tom Oberheim. “But we took it even further. You can now combine the various OB voice architectures in ways that produce unique and interesting new sounds and capabilities.”
Originally founded by Tom Oberheim in 1969, Oberheim Electronics created ground-breaking products that fueled the electronic music revolution throughout the 1970’s and early 1980’s. After ceasing operations in 1985, these instruments attained near-mythical status, with highly prized vintage models selling for many times their original price on the secondhand market.
Since that time, Tom Oberheim had created a handful of limited-production instruments and co-designs with various partners under other names. But in a recent significant development, he regained control of the Oberheim trademarks and IP, and now, in partnership with Focusrite PLC, has decided to once again introduce new products under the Oberheim brand name for first time in more than 35 years.
“I’ve always had a very optimistic outlook on our industry and the future in general. I felt that one day, when the time was right, Oberheim would return. A big part of this was the fact that so many musicians have contacted me over the years to ask how to get hold of an original Oberheim. So when I finally reacquired the Oberheim name, it was clear that the time was finally here,” said Oberheim.
The catalog of artists associated with the original products is long, and includes innovators like Prince, Van Halen, and Herbie Hancock. For many, it was much more than just an instrument. A handful of A-list artists such as Trent Reznor, creative force behind Nine Inch Nails, and Golden Globe, Academy Award, and Primetime Emmy-winning composer got pre-release previews. “When I was shown the new OB-X8, I was immediately impressed with the forensic level of detail that went into its design and the respect for its lineage,” remarked Trent. I will be making room in my studio for one and I’m excited more people will be able to experience this classic instrument.”
Creating a new company out of thin air was no small feat. “I’m excited to work with my old friend and audio industry innovator Marcus Ryle, along with some other members of the original Oberheim team again,” said Tom. “And thanks to an exclusive partnership with Focusrite group company Sequential LLC, we have the ability to design, manufacture, distribute, and support new instruments on a global scale.”
For Marcus Ryle, one of the inventors behind the ADAT, the QuadraSynth, and Line 6 guitar amps and effects, this represents closure of sorts: “Synths were my first love and the reason I entered this industry. Tom hired me when I was 19, and I feel lucky to have been a part of the Oberheim design team during its glory days. Now, a whole new chapter in the story of analog synthesizer-based music is about to get written.”
Dave Smith, founder of Sequential and himself a legendary figure in synth history, also collaborated with Marcus (an Oberheim team member from the 1980s) and Tom to create the new product. “We’ve already developed other interesting design ideas with Tom for follow-up products that will allow us to take Oberheim into the future as a synth brand,” commented Smith. “It’s a very exciting time to be a musician.”
The OB-X8 eight-voice analog synthesizer will be available at the end of June with a US MAP of $4,995.
About Oberheim
Oberheim is the 21st century return of the legendary company that helped fuel the electronic music revolution. Now,
just as then, Oberheim is guided by the vision of engineer and inventor, Tom Oberheim. Tom’s genius for innovation introduced the world to the first commercially available poly synth and other groundbreaking electronic instruments that literally changed the sound of music. Today, Oberheim reawakens this legacy by bringing the famed Oberheim sound to a new generation of instruments and artists. The company’s passion remains unchanged by time or technology — to once again provide the world with the finest-sounding analog synthesizers ever made. Oberheim brings its products to market with the help of the Focusrite organization and renowned synth maker, Sequential."
OBERHEIM OB-X8 SPECIFICATIONS
• 8-voice, pure-analog polyphony with saw, square/pulse, triangle, and noise • Two discrete SEM/OB-X-lineage VCOs per voice deliver classic punchy Oberheim tone • Discrete SEM-lineage VCFs deliver authentic OB-X-style tone and presence • Genuine Curtis filters add bold OB-Xa/OB-8 character • Meticulously modeled envelope responses match each OB model: OB-X, OB-Xa, and OB-8 • The 61-key FATAR velocity- and touch-sensitive keyboard allows unparalleled expression and responsiveness • Bi-timbral capability allows two presets simultaneously for splits and doubles • 400-plus factory programs, including the full set of factory sounds for the OB-X, OB-SX, OB-Xa, and OB-8 • Integral, fanless, heatsink-free power supply • Real walnut end cheeks • High-resolution OLED display enables patch management and easy access to advanced features • Classic Oberheim Pitch and Mod levers allow expressive note bending, vibrato, and access to arpeggiator functions
ENHANCEMENTS • Additional SEM filter modes add high-pass, band-pass, and notch functions to the classic OB-X filter • Vintage knob allows variable amounts of voice-to-voice variability to emulate the behavior of vintage instruments • Velocity sensitivity adds expressiveness to volume and filter • Channel Aftertouch adds real-time performance-based modulation • Enhanced unison allows variable voice stacking from 1-8 voices • Variable triangle wave cross-modulation • Over 600 user-programmable preset locations • Programmable per-program pan allows wider stereo presence • Variable oscillator and noise levels
INS & OUTS • Stereo and Mono outputs • Volume, Sustain, and Filter inputs • Arpeggiator clock input • MIDI In, Out, Thru • USB • Dimensions: • Weight: 32.5 lbs • Dimensions: 40.5” L x 16.67” W x 5.87” H
"The resurrection of a polyphonic icon. Softube Model 84 Polyphonic Synthesizer is a circuit-modeled emulation of a 1984 six-voice synth featuring the influential sound of the 1980s original. Use it as an instrument, in our official Eurorack platform, Modular, or our pro audio guitar & bass platform, Amp Room. The retro-future is here. ✮"
And the
blue synth
is revealed. Meet Model Electronics new Cobalt 8. Priced at $749.99 USD, £579.99 GBP, and €649.99 Euro. See the dealers on the right for availibility.
Playlist:
1. Modal Cobalt 8 Sound Demo (no talking) - Limbic Bits
2. Modal Electronics Cobalt 8 Sound Demo (no talking) - Bonedo Synthesizers
3. COBALT8 review & comparison with Argon8 // Which synthesizer is right for you?!
- BoBeats
4. Cobalt8 Modal Electronics - 1st Look - sonicstate
And the press release (hi-res pics below):
"Modal Electronics creatively kickstarts new synthesiser series with COBALT8
–
8-Voice Extended Virtual-Analogue Synthesiser –
Bristol, UK: leading
British synthesiser manufacturer Modal Electronics is proud to announce
availability of COBALT8 — an immensely powerful, eight-voice extended VA
(Virtual-Analogue) synthesiser that brings traditional and entirely new
analogue-style sound textures to modern music creation and production as an
innovative, sophisticated synthesis concept comprising two oscillator groups
with selectable algorithms in self-contained elements enabling multiple
oscillator modulations, an all-new 4-pole morphable ladder filter with
switchable configurations, an unparalleled modulation engine, and much more
besides, extending far beyond the limits of its analogue forefathers — as of
October 29…
Creatively kickstarting a new synthesiser series by
building on the tradition of warm and punchy analogue-style synth sounds seeded
by bygone legendary synthesisers, COBALT8 creatively unlocks the full potential
of analogue waveforms with up to 64 high-resolution VA oscillators with extended
drift — up to eight for each of its eight true polyphonic voices. The two
independent and self-contained Osc (oscillator) groups include sine, pulse,
triangle, and sawtooth waveforms alongside 34 unique algorithms allowing for
complex analogue synthesis techniques, built-in cross-modulation (sync, ring
modulation, and more), PWM (Pulse Width Modulation), smooth morphing between VA
waves, bit crushing, and filtered noise — unlike any other VA synthesiser before
it, increasing creative options for new-generation synth sounds. Speaking of
which, Algorithm1 and Algorithm2 each have an associated simple-to- use pair of
controls — A1 and B1, A2 and B2 — chosen to suit the particular algorithm or
character, providing musicians with the power of traditionally complex
oscillator modulations or processes spontaneously.
"The new Prophet-5 is Dave Smith's return to the analog poly synth that changed the world. It embodies all three revisions of the legendary synth — Rev1, Rev2, Rev3 — and now, the Rev4. History never sounded better.
Soundtrack exclusively by Prophet-5. Yes, even the drums."
Both models will be available in October. The Prophet-5 has a US MAP of $3,499. The Prophet-10 has a US MAP of $4,299. Note there is an additional video demo by INHALT further below.
"Sequential Reintroduces the Prophet®-5, the Synth that Revolutionized an Industry
San Francisco, CA—Oct 1, 2020—After months of clandestine development, Sequential today announced the reintroduction of its most famous and beloved instrument: the Prophet-5. Timed to coincide with founder Dave Smith’s 70th year, the instrument revisits a landmark era in American analog synthesizer design and marks an authentic and authoritative return to roots for the legendary pioneer of electronic instruments.
“It’s not often that you get to revisit your past, retrieve some of its magic, and give it new life,” said Dave Smith. “The Prophet-5 was one of the most exciting instruments to appear in an equally exciting time for music and technology. It’s gratifying to rediscover that its sound and aesthetics are just as appealing now as they were then.”
Faithful to the original, the new Prophet-5 features five voices with two multi-waveform analog oscillators, resonant analog low-pass filters and amplifiers, and a filter and amplifier envelope per voice. Modulation is provided by a multi-waveshape LFO and Poly Mod, a ground-breaking modulation scheme for its time that allowed the filter envelope and oscillator B to be routed to a variety of destinations including filter cutoff frequency, oscillator A frequency, and oscillator A pulse width.
The new Prophet-5 features original, genuine Curtis VCOs and filters as used in the Prophet-5 Rev3, as well as the Dave Rossum-designed SSI 2140 filter, the modern counterpart of the original SSM 2040 Rossum designed in the Prophet-5 Rev1 and Rev2. “We made the new Prophet-5 the best of all Prophets by embodying all three revisions of the original. We did this by adding a Rev switch to the front panel, so you can choose your preferred filter.”
Smith continued, “We also researched what made the original P-5 sound the way it did — organic and alive — and found that a lot of that desirable character was due to fluctuations and differences in the response times and frequencies of the individual oscillators, filters, and envelopes from voice to voice. So we also added a Vintage knob that loosens all of them up like they were in the old days. You can dial in progressively more vintage character as you go from a very stable “4,” as in Prophet-5 Rev4, all the way to “1,” as in Prophet-5 Rev1, which was the most temperamental of all Prophet-5s. We’ve even included the original factory sound set for the full vintage experience.”
Other modern enhancements include velocity sensitivity and aftertouch to increase expressiveness, as well as MIDI and USB connectivity. Control voltage and gate ins/outs are also present for connecting modular synths and other gear. The new Prophet-5 is housed in a collector-worthy, premium-quality, steel and hand-oiled sustainable black walnut heartwood body, with a full, five-octave, semi-weighted Fatar keybed.
Sequential is simultaneously offering the Prophet-10, a ten-voice version of the synthesizer with the same sound engine and collector-worthy design. “I originally designed the first Prophet in both five-voice and ten-voice versions. But the five-voice model was the one that achieved mass production. We thought it would be fun and fitting to reintroduce the ten-voice as well, to make the circle complete.” Sequential Circuits’ later product, the dual-manual, bi-timbral Prophet-10, was a different instrument in both concept and execution.
Both models will be available in October. The Prophet-5 has a US MAP of $3,499. The Prophet-10 has a US MAP of $4,299."
"There are few synthesizers that spark deep emotions and reverence. The Prophet 5 is one of them. Its history is marked by both the counter and the dominant cultural works; wether listening to the independent outings of New Musik and Skinny Puppy, the art of Japan and Sakamoto, the disco of Cowely, the soundtracks of Carpenter or the pop of McCartney and Madonna, it collectively becomes clear that the Prophet 5 is the great enabler of the modern musical expression. If the Model D is the left hand the Prophet 5 is the right. And rightly so, as its genius and genuineness transitioned the 5 from "tool of novelty" firmly into the place of an exuberant enabler of the creative expression. From decade to decade, its design and purity allowed it to slot into a music production unweathered and unbiased by whatever style is in vogue. Yet, it's always fashionable and it always sits right where it's supposed to. Put simply, it's a workhorse that inspires. Whatever the revision. And now, that story, that lineage continues with the Rev 4.
It's with absolute honor, gratitude, and exhilaration that I accepted the offer to work on the factory patches for Sequential's latest chapter in the story of the Prophet 5. Sound designing alongside the superb voicing team has been a wonderful collaboration with a company I consider family and my way to give thanks for the career that the Prophet 5 has helped me build. Unlike other projects I've done in the past, part of my testing of the Rev 4 included putting it through an actual studio music production. I'm currently in the middle of producing two LP's (the artists Some Ember and Patriarchy) and the Rev 4 got used heavily on both. The main question I sought to answer: "does it handle the same as a vintage unit". What became abundantly clear: the Rev 4 isn't like a Prophet 5, isn't inspired by a Prophet 5, ins't referencing a Prophet 5; it is a Prophet 5. Through and through in every sense of the very defining characteristics of the 5. It's a Prophet 5. Period. And in many regards it's better. Why?
Rapid fire MIDI, Fatar keybed, both genuine SSM (SSI) filters and VCAs, genuine Curtis filters and oscillators, a perfectly tuned LFO and envelopes, the ability to actually save LFO amount settings, velocity, aftertouch, the same voice allocation as the original ... and zero repairs needed with no sacrifice to the soul of what makes the 5 the 5. It looks the same with minor additions that can be completely ignored if you choose. You can play it like the original and you can expect it to do exactly what the original does. Or you can take advantage of all of the modern facilities. I also made a set of patches that were the same sounds on both a vintage 5 and the Rev 4 and quickly cycling playing the same passage on the 2 instruments, for all in the room, it was impossible to tell what's what and who's who.
The amount of care, attention to detail, and workmanship that has gone into the Rev 4 is remarkable and I am honored to have been a part of the team putting it through the paces. Sequential is a special company. It's marked by integrity, friendship, care, and carries on a tradition of producing musical instruments from that platform. The Rev 4 is a Prophet 5 and ONLY Sequential can make that.
Please note, the Rev 4 in the video is a prototype unit and I recorded this with a beta firmware. As such, while the synth was largely done there are some changes both to the panel and to the OS that are in the final shipping version (obviously). The Prophet 5 was recorded straight into Pro Tools HD and no post processing or fx were added. What you're hearing is the raw Rev 4."
"#PolyBrute is more than a #synthesizer - it's a 6-voice analog powerhouse, with unprecedented expressivity and sound #morphing capabilities, built to let you perform fearlessly, compose with fluidity, and explore sound in perpetual motion."
ARTURIA POLYBRUTE — the BEST Arturia synthesizer yet!
BoBeats
"Arturia Polybrute is finally here! I have spent about a week with it and here are my first first impressions & walkthrough of what this synth offers. I'm making videos & music full time now and you can support here: http://www.patreon.com/bobeats and you can get the shirt I wear at http://merch.bobeats.tv
Contents
00:00 Introduction
03:50 Overview of the Polybrute & Sound Demos
14:12 Patch from scratch
26:36 Making a beat with MASCHINE+ and Polybrute"
Arturia PolyBrute - First Look Preview
sonicstate
"We have the PolyBrute in for review, but we couldnt quite get the full review finished in time for the release deadline, so here's a quick look to keep you going until we're done."
POLYBRUTE Review // +70 Presets // Full morph tutorial for Arturia's flagship synth
Update: and the mini press release (new SynthFest France video below as well):
"Arturia unveils their expansive new flagship synthesizer, PolyBrute
Fusing the raw power of Brute oscillators with digital Matrix precision, the innovative three-dimensional Morphée performance touchpad, and pristine stereo effects, PolyBrute represents a new era of polyphony. Available November 2020.
_Analog morphing polysynth
Polyphonic power fused with unrivalled modulation capabilities. Infinite positions on an elusive spectrum of sound, instantly accessible. An instrument that responds to your every command for ultimate performance control. This is PolyBrute.
The Brute factor
6 pure analog voices driven by 2 Brute oscillators, complete with distortion, wavefolding, and FM control, shaped by dual enhanced filters for massive timbral variety.
Morphing
Seamless three-dimensional morphing between two completely different states within a single patch. An infinite continuum of sound, immediately accessible expression.
Express yourself
A new dimension of performance control, with a dynamic ribbon strip, an assignable mod wheel, and finally, the innovative Morphée 3-axis performance touchpad.
Modulation
No more static patches. 3 envelope generators, 3 LFOs, and modulation flexibility normally reserved for modular systems - with the immediacy and precision of digital control.
The Matrix
The digital brain to PolyBrute’s analog heart - control presets, the sequencer, morph state editing, and of course, PolyBrute’s expansive modulation routing.
Studio-grade effects
Pristine stereo digital effects incorporated into every patch, with parameters that can be modulated to no end - including algorithms from our acclaimed FX Collection.
_The full lowdown
The new Brute flagship has landed. Raw, powerful, organic - the Brute range is all about the tactile immediacy of analog synthesis. Explore it for yourself…
_Wooden legs
PolyBrute is designed to be fully compatible with our Wooden Legs companion. The Wooden legs offer a professional ergonomic solution, with a timeless beechwood construction, built for studio and stage that’s as reliable as it is stylish - enjoy an unhindered performing experience with class."
