April 8, 2025 – Cre8audio proudly introduces Boom Chick, an innovative pure analog drum machine that blends the inspiration of classic drum machines with cutting-edge analog circuitry and fresh design concepts from Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers. Boom Chick fuses expressive percussion voices with an advanced, addictive, and intuitive sequencer, offering deep rhythmic exploration for modern musicians and producers.
Revolutionary Analog Percussion
Inspired by the hands-on playability of legendary drum machines, Boom Chick delivers the warmth and character of classic analog percussion while embracing new, forward-thinking design. Its knob-per-function interface ensures effortless jamming and fine-tuning, making it a truly immersive drum machine for musicians seeking an organic, tactile beat-making experience. Whether crafting intricate grooves or pushing sonic boundaries, Boom Chick delivers raw, dynamic, and powerful sound.
April 8, 2025 – Cre8audio, proudly introduces Assembler, a synth-focused analog audio mixer designed to deliver unmatched vintage console sound with intuitive hands-on control. Developed in collaboration with the renowned Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers, Assembler fuses the warmth of classic analog mixers with a modern workflow tailored for contemporary electronic artists, plus a few other fantastic sound sculpting tools.
Vintage Sound, Modern Control Inspired by the iconic consoles that defined decades of music production, Assembler brings the same sought-after warmth, character, and tonal shaping to today’s producers and performers. Featuring custom-designed Pittsburgh Modular analog circuitry, the mixer utilizes signal contouring and soft compression to unify the overall mix. This process emulates the beloved sonic characteristics of vintage recordings, offering a rich and cohesive sound.
Comprehensive Mixing Power With ten audio inputs split into three distinct channel types, Assembler seamlessly integrates into any live or studio setup. Key features include:
Powerful preamps with up to 20x gain boost for line-level signals, clarity enhancement, or saturation.
Vintage tape saturation style contouring and soft compression on all channels and auxes
Three assignable aux sends for external effects and sub-mixing.
You can find demos and an interview with the designer Bert Vermeulen & Peter Kember of Spacemen 3 & Sonic Boom in previous posts here (interview here).
1. Bristronica 24: MyVolts The Silent Alchemist Nears Shipping
We caught up with Caroline who gave us the latest update to the *Silent Alchemist*, a versatile power hub designed for musicians. Featuring five isolated USB-C outputs and a high-wattage sixth output capable of delivering 100 watts, the device can power a Mac with the remaining outputs providing 20 watts each. Its independent circuits ensure noise-free operation, catering to a variety of devices including the Dreadbox module and Sysmo slope generator.
The Silent Alchemist uses innovative step-up power tips to convert USB-C input to the correct voltage for various devices. There's also new feature: an uninterruptible power supply allowing seamless transition between wall and power bank sources. Also introduced were updated cables, such as silver candy cords and floating ring TRS to TS cables, expanding connection flexibility. The Silent Alchemist is expected to be available in December with a competitive pricing strategy.
At Bristronica 2024, we caught up with the creator of the *ML2M*, who introduced us to the latest version. The ML2M is a compact Eurorack module with Wi-Fi capabilities, allowing seamless synchronization with Ableton Live, Bitwig Studio, and iOS music apps using Ableton Link without the need for cables. It either connects to an existing network or creates its own, ensuring robust sync even in environments with unreliable Wi-Fi. The module, which retains its 2HP size, now features MIDI integration through TRS jacks. Users can access a web interface to configure each output for different clock divisions and reset triggers, making setup straightforward and flexible.
Alongside the ML2M, there's also the Missing Link Junior. This desktop version offers the same functionality but in a box format, complete with MIDI and CV clock outputs. Both products are now accessible, with a starting price of $250.
At Machina Bristronica 2024, we caught up with Arran from @archaea_modular_synthesis who presented the *Exchange Module*. This programmable patcher, a year in the making, evolved from its early prototype stage to a fully functional module. Arran explained how the Exchange can route synth voices via a beam controller and three exchange modules installed within the skiff, allowing for versatile patching. Operating like a matrix patchbay, it enables users to select inputs and outputs with the push of a button, create presets, and chain multiple modules for synchronized patching.
Communication between the modules occurs over the Eurorack power bus as well as over MIDI via the USB-C connection. The Exchange maintains analog integrity, ensuring there’s no conversion latency. The forthcoming release expected in late November 2024, includes a USB-driven editor for enhanced control capabilities.
"(Synton) Fénix II PP Presentation:
including Question & Answers with Designer Bert Vermeulen & Special Guest Interviewer Peter Kember aka Sonic Boom of Spacemen 3 Recorded Live at Patch Point in Lisbon.
All Audio is from the Camera Microphone.
You can Pre-Order the Fénix II PP here: https://patch-point.com/products/feni... Links: Bert Vermeulen : http://www.dutchsynth.nl/ Peter Kember : https://www.instagram.com/2020sonicbo... Patch Point IG : https://www.instagram.com/patchpoint/ Patch Point Lisbon IG : https://www.instagram.com/patchpointlisboa/ Book the free studio s@/ Patch Point try the Fénix II PP in : Lisbon : lisbon@patch-point.com Berlin : berlin@patch-point.com Ordering questions and more information : support@patch-point.com Patch Point : https://patch-point.com/"
Featuring the Fénix creator Bert Vermeulen and Sonic Boom aka Peter Kember of Spacemen 3.
Patch Point is super happy to announce we are putting the finishing touches on the Fénix II PP project and will begin shipping orders in the next 2 months."
"AKAI PROFESSIONAL® INTRODUCES MPC LIVE II – THE FIRST MPC WITH BUILT-IN STEREO MONITORS
Standalone production capability, rechargeable battery, built-in monitors, CV/Gate connectivity and MIDI Multi functionality - MPC Live II is truly fit to carry the name of its predecessor
Ft Lauderdale, FL USA (May 14, 2020) — Akai Professional, a leading manufacturer of music equipment for performers and producers, today announced its newest portable standalone music production center, the MPC Live II, packed with all the enhancements from the recent software update for the entire MPC line, MPC 2.8.
MPC Live II builds on its phenomenally successful predecessor and introduces built-in monitor speakers for a completely standalone music-making experience. While traveling or in the studio, MPC Live II is ready to perform wherever inspiration strikes!
Standalone Music Production
Like the MPC X and MPC One, MPC Live II operates as a fully standalone music production center. MPC Live II is powered by MPC software – a unique hardware / software ecosystem that empowers users with the legendary, feature-rich workflow that has been used on countless hits since the introduction of the MPC series. The 7-inch, multi-gesture touchscreen enables producers to access all the features needed to create a beat or a recording from start to finish. MPC Live II also adds five new hardware buttons to improve the editing workflow. With features including Mute, Time Correct and Mix, users can edit and tweak tracks without skipping a beat.
Newest MPC 2.8 Software
New to Akai Professional’s standalone, multi-core powered MPC Series is MIDI Multi capability. The MPC Software 2.8 update, transforms MPC Live II into the ultimate MIDI sequencing studio centerpiece. Now users can simultaneously connect and route all the MIDI gear in their studio, including class-compliant USB Keyboards, MIDI interfaces and USB to CV modules, supercharging MPC Live II’s I/O capability. Fuse this with deep internal MIDI routing capability across tracks, comprehensive MIDI routing to any MIDI compatible synthesizer, drum machine or sound module, and even multitrack recording capability, and MPC Live II forms the beating heart of any production setup.
Built-In Monitors
MPC Live II’s built-in monitoring system offers a dynamic response spanning the full musical range, meticulously reproducing detailed high-frequency audio information while still delivering accurate low frequencies. From sharp, cutting hi-hats to punchy 808 drums and deep bass lines, MPC Live II eliminates all barriers between beatmakers and their music. MPC Live II’s built-in monitors not only provide a convenient set of reference monitors for studio use, but a great platform for listening, creating and collaborating on-the-go without headphones.
CV/Gate, WiFi, and Bluetooth Connectivity
With MPC Live II, complete standalone production capability fuses with an ultra-portable specification and an arsenal of connectivity options for complete hook-up flexibility with all your studio gear. With eight new CV/Gate outputs (four TRS jacks), producers can now incorporate modular connectivity into their MPC Live setup. Coupled with built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, users can also enjoy the seamless side-by-side workflow of MPC and Ableton Live.
Rechargeable Battery
The most complete mobile production experience couldn’t exist without a reliable power source for long-lasting on-the-go sessions. The rechargeable lithium-ion battery gives you all the power you need for up to five hours of on-the-go music creation, so you can work wherever inspiration strikes.
16GB Sound Library
The MPC Live II comes with a robust 16GB sound library of high-quality samples and loops, including a new library from F9 Audio and the new Sonic Boom sound set. For those who need even more access to content, your Splice account curations are just a few taps away, with direct access via the 7-inch multi-gesture touchscreen and Wi-Fi connection.
MPC Live II Hardware Features
• Standalone MPC (no computer necessary)
• Natively powered by MPC 2.8 software
• Built-In stereo studio monitor speakers
• Internal rechargeable battery – up to five hours of on-the-go use
• Four TRS CV/Gate jacks (eight outputs total)
• Brilliant 7-inch multi-touch display
• Wi-Fi & Bluetooth connectivity
• 16GB included content
MPC 2.8 Software Enhancements
• MIDI Multi allowing users to record multiple MIDI or audio tracks simultaneously
• USB MIDI input and output support to work with any class-compliant MIDI device
• MIDI layering capability
• Time Correct enable/disable toggling
• Q-Link overlay display
• Edit Pad Map
• Available for MPC One, MPC Live, MPC Live II and MPC X
“We are relentless in our pursuit of the most comprehensive standalone music production experience,” says Dan Gill, Senior Product Manager for Akai Professional. “With every workflow consideration, every feature-set and function, we purposefully set out to create devices that are effortless conduits of the creative process. By incorporating stereo monitors, MPC Live II delivers every standalone tool producers and beatmakers need to capture inspiration wherever it strikes.”
MPC Live II is available immediately with a US retail price of $1199
MPC 2.8 is also available immediately as a free download for all MPC Live, MPC Live II, MPC X and MPC One users
For more information on MPC Live II and MPC 2.8, visit akaipro.com.
"I think we all know this feeling, when we wanted to buy a synth and the price was right, but we passed it up. Now all we do is look back and think, if only we had got it right then. Now we live with synth regret, realizing that even though we could have the cost is just too much. Tell me in the comments the synths you passed up on and what you want, but may never own!"
What are you regrets?
A few I regret not picking up which were actually for sale were Delia Derbyshire's VCS3 Putney and a Synton Syrinx both being sold by Spectrum's Sonic Boom, the Jomox Sunsyn, LL Electronic Rozzbox, and an army green Waldorf Microwave 1. I regret them because they were actually attainable considering what they were. On the not so affordable list there were a few ARP 2500s, Emu Modulars, EMS SYNTHI 100, Buchla gear, EMS SYNTHIs, and Waldorf Waves I've spotted for sale over the years. And The Schmidt, let's not forget The Schmidt. I'm sure there were others...
I do have an OB-6 (desktop), and an XTk on Noir Et Blanc Vie's list and love them both. Never picked up an Easel though.
"Roland JX-305 Back on the Dancefloor 2017
Synthesizer demo by Rik Marston
**Watch in HD** **Turn it UP**
**Sonic BOOM @ 07:27 Watch your speakers!**
I finally found a RESTORED, CUSTOMIZED JX-305
with BLUE LEDs and I am sooo happy about it!!!!
The JX-305 was my main synth in 1999, no joke!!
Here are 5 preset patterns that are just the tip of
the JX-305 groove experience! I LOVE THIS SYNTH!!
A Roland MC-505 Groovebox in a synth? No way!!
I love the JUNO-DS because it's sequencer is like
the JX-305 groovesynth... Now I have both to tweak
with!!! I have actually started my collection of Roland
Groove Gear circa 1996-1999 & a working JX-305 is a
MUST if you want to collect'em all! I will make a bunch
more JX-305 videos soon so SUBSCRIBE if you haven't
already! A TON OF GROOVE GEAR videos coming soon!!
Thank you for watching!!!
PLEASE Like, Share & SUBSCRIBE!!
Rik Marston
SynthgodXXX
Earth Empire
Ahnyxian Sound Design
11/24/2017"
"The under-appreciated electronic music pioneer behind the Doctor Who theme is to be honoured posthumously with a doctorate from her hometown university as the programme gears up for the debut of its first female lead.
Largely ignored in life and barred from working in studios because she was a woman, Delia Derbyshire, will be awarded an honorary PhD from Coventry University on Monday."
---
This one was sent in via MATRIXSYNTH Reader Gareth.
An interesting side note is that I once almost picked up Delia Derbyshire's EMS VCS3/Putney. Peter Kember, aka Sonic Boom of Spectrum and Spacemen 3 fame, was selling it along with a Synton Syrinx years ago, before I started this format of MATRIXSYNTH. I seem to remember he wanted around $7k or so for it at the time, but I might wrong. I didn't have the funds so I passed. Also, a little unknown bit of synth history is that EMS sent the BBC an EMS SYNTHI 100 during the time Delia Derbyshire was there, and she actually did not take to it. It is my understanding that she preferred to work with tape. Curious what she might have thought of a Buchla, as the focus of Buchla was to compliment electronic music composition on tape.
A friend of mine, Douglas, recommended Panda Bear Meets the Grim Reaper. I picked it up on vinyl, opened it up, and saw this image on the inner gatefold sleeve. How cool is that? You can clearly spot a Moog Voyager in the background and a Jomox XBase 999 in the foreground. There's also a some other gear, a synth cat, and a grim reaper with cables. One of the cables the reaper is holding wraps around Panda Bear and morphs into a scythe. Death by cable / death by synth / death by audio.
What is also particularly cool, and something you rarely see, are the synths listed in the liner credits. They are listed as follows:
Panda Bear: Jomox Xbase 999, Yamaha TX81Z, Moog Voyager, Elektron DPS-1, vocals, piano, effects & percussion.
Sonic Boom: EMS Synth AKS Synthesizer, Fenix II Modular, Moog Voyager, vocoder & effects.
Sonic Boom is the man behind Spectrum. He has been featured here a few times on MATRIXSYNTH, including this post for his action figure. Side note: One of my biggest regrets years ago, before I started the blog format of MATRIXSYNTH, was missing out on Sonic Boom's Synton Syrinx and EMS VCS3 / Putney, which was previously owned by the one and only Delia Derbyshire. He listed them for sale on one of the synth lists. I forget which. Unfortunately, I couldn't afford them but I will never forget them. It was one of those rare moments when you think, "Wow, that is something I will never see again. I wish I were rich... " Don't we all. :)
Playlist:
Roland Boutique TR-08 & SH-01A with Mathew Jonson
One Take with Roland Boutique TR-08 & SH-01A: Mathew Jonson
Roland Boutique TR-08 Rhythm Composer
Hands on with Roland SH-01A, TR-08 - cdmtv
Introducing The Roland Boutique Series TR-08 and SH-01A | Reverb.com
Roland TR-08 Rhythm Composer | Reverb Demo Video
Roland SH-01A Bass Line Synthesizer | Reverb Demo Video Update: New video added: Roland SH-01A Boutique Synthesizer QUICK DEMO
"The TR-08 brings the look, sound, and feel of the original 808 — with stunning accuracy — to the Roland Boutique format. From the instantly-recognizable red-orange-yellow-white markings, the shape of the sequencer buttons, switches and knobs are details that have been painstakingly reproduced to match the iconic recreation of sounds. Along with the aesthetic touches, the TR-08 contains new features like 16 sub-steps for fast rolls, independent trigger out track, compression/gain/tune for instruments and a selectable modified “long decay” bass drum for more boom and resonance.
Apparently, you are looking at the very first EMS VCS3 aka The Putney and sibling to the EMS SYNTHI. Red Bull Music Academy has an excellent post up on White Noise with the history of this particular synth.
"Perched on top of a speaker in another corner sits the synthesizer used on the early White Noise albums, The EMS VCS3, serial number 001.
'That was the very first one he ever made,' Vorhaus says. 'He turned up with a bottle of Dom Pérignon, which cost probably more than the synthesizer.” The ‘he’ in question is Peter Zinovieff, who created the VCS3 with Tristram Cary and David Cockerell in 1969. If it wasn’t for Zinovieff, Vorhaus might never have met his two principal collaborators on An Electric Storm, Brian Hodgson and Delia Derbyshire, of the BBC Radiophonic Workshop. 'Delia Derbyshire was my girlfriend. She showed me everything that was known about electronic music in a couple of weeks,' Vorhaus explains, adding, 'There wasn’t much more to know than that then.'"
On a separate note, one of my biggest regrets was missing the opportunity to purchase Delia Derbyshires' VCS3 several years back. Sonic Boom of Spectrum was selling it along with a Synton Syrinx. Two dream synths I would have loved to own.
"The awesome Pete Kember (Spacemen 3 / E.A.R. / Sonic Boom) was up for a nice interview and demo session with Patchblocks. Special thanks to Peter and Gus for this cool piece of footage ;-)"
Side note: I remember when Sonic Boom was selling his Synton Syrinx and Delia Derbyshire's EMS VSC3. I was so tempted to pick them up at the time, but I couldn't afford either. They've gone up in price considerably since then.
"I’m proud to be sponsoring this Synth event which is taking place in Coventry in just under 3 weeks – Saturday March 21st. Come along and check out Thonk gear in the day and/or great music in the evening – Wrangler, Sonic Boom (Peter Kember, E.A.R, Spacemen 3, Spectrum) + Attrition."
"This EMS Hi-Fly come with its original pedal controllers from '70, it's very CLEAN hard to find in these conditions! and fully working of course. It's an awesome effect processor for guitars and Synthesizers, I used it on a VCS3 and now as extension on my AKS... sounds from Outer Space ;-) really impressive!
You can combine effects between: Octave Shift, Ring modulator, Fuzz, Amazing and unique Phaser, Wha, the legendary "Meow" vibrato and a complex Vco system for modulations.
It was uses from legendary bands in the past like Pink Floyd (David Gilmour), used today for electronic music productions, experimental music like SPECTRUM (Sonic Boom)
Working voltage is of 110 volts (USA standard supply) but of course usable with a common and cheap 220 to 110 volts converter."
"Studio Electronics SE-1X NE Angel Dust Specs & Features
Innovative NEW LOOK!... Limited Edition with...
• TWO EXTRA SOUNDBANKS!!!
• Now with 693 total sounds
• ANGEL DUST FACE PLATE
• NEW Amp Overdrive for Saturated "Fuzz"
• Ultra fast ADSR for ultimate SNAP
• Expanded wide range Filters
• NEW added SINE WAVE GENERATOR for more BOOM
• Custom Scroggins Techno Sounds Bank
"Very rare and beautiful EMS Hi -Fly with an unique SPACE AGE design...
This EMS Hi-Fly come with its original pedal controllers, it's very CLEAN hard to find in these conditions! and fully working of course. It's an awesome effect processor for guitars and also Synthesizers, you can combine effects between: Octave Shift, Ring modulator, Fuzz, Amazing and unique Phaser, Wha, the legendary "Meow" vibrato and a complex Vco system for modulations.
It was uses from legendary bands in the past like Pink Floyd (David Gilmour), used today for electronic music productions, experimental music ...like SPECTRUM (Sonic Boom) a great EMS Hi-Fly user
Working voltage is of 110 volts but of course usable with a common and cheap 220 to 110 volts converter."
"This EMS Hi-Fly comes with its original pedal controllers, it's very CLEAN hard to find in these conditions! and fully working of course. It's an awesome effect processor for guitars and also Synthesizers, you can combine effects between: Octave Shift, Ring modulator, Fuzz, Amazing and unique Phaser, Wha, the legendary "Meow" vibrato and a complex Vco system for modulations.
It was uses from legendary bands in the past like Pink Floyd (David Gilmour), used today for electronic music productions, experimental music ...like SPECTRUM (Sonic Boom) a great EMS Hi-Fly user
Working voltage is of 110 volts but of course usable with a common and cheap 220 to 110 volts converter."
"SONiVOX Announces Sampla – Hip Hop Production Sampler
Premier provider of virtual instrument technology rolls out new Virtual Sampler Plugin for MAC & PC designed for Hip Hop Production
SONiVOX, Boston based virtual instrument manufacturer today announced the availability of Sampla - Hip Hop Production Sampler, an innovative new virtual sampler plug-in for MAC and PC designed for fast and professional quality sampling, and beat creation for hip hop producers everywhere.
Sampla’s unique design bridges the gap between MPC style sampling and the computer based virtual instrument environment. Sampla allows users to easily record, slice, loop, and assign (keymap) their own recorded samples as well as any of their own wav, acid, aiff, and mp3 samples. In addition to the flexibility provided by Sampla’s sampler engine, Sampla’s “Learn Mode” allows users to interface their MIDI pad controllers and controller keyboards directly with Sampla. Whether the user is using a midi keyboard, MPC pad controller, or just their computer by itself, Sampla is designed to put serious control in the producer’s hands.
Sampla’s innovative design and functionality doesn’t stop with the application itself. Additionally Sampla is packed with a diverse and extensive factory sound bank, all recorded and programmed by SONiVOX’s award winning sound design team, with over 250 high end instrument presets and pad layouts. Included are acoustic and electronic drumkits, basses, keyboards, leads, guitars, strings, brass, pads, vocals, symphonic construction kits, scensorship bleeps and blips, as well as a selection of loops from the SONiVOX LoopLine series, all designed to deliver superior sonic and stylistic versatility.
Sampla’s Key Features At a Glance:
MPC style editing & slicing for easy instrument & beat creation
Imports Wav, Acid, Broadcast Wav, Aiff, & MP3 Format Files
Easy to use record functionality for real time sampling
Over 250 factory preset instruments and pad layouts
16 user assignable pads
Tempo Sync Stereo Delay, EQ, and Chorus Effects
Assignable filter section with 10 filter types
Graphic waveform display with zoom, click, and drag functionality
Midi Learn & Save functionality, Sampla is instantly compatible with any MIDI keyboard or pad control
Pad-Specific Variable Resolution Note Repeat and Pattern Arpeggiation Mode
PC Standalone, VST and RTAS Compatibility.
MAC Standalone, AU, VST, and RTAS Compatibility.
Sampla - Hip Hop Production Sampler is a part of SONiVOX’s Hip Hop production line of products that also includes Playa: Hip Hop Virtual Instrument, and Playa: Aggro Electro Boom. Sampla is available now with a MSRP of $149 and an introductory street price of $99.
To find out more about Sampla or any other SONiVOX products please visit www.sonivoxmi.com
About SONiVOX
SONiVOX provides a multi-tiered suite of premier sound products that give voice to consumers ranging from professional musicians to over 100 million cellular users worldwide.
For years, SONiVOX, formerly Sonic Implants, has provided leading musicians and composers in the film and television industries with the tools needed to create world-class audio content for chart-topping movie, music and television projects.
Whether it’s high-end sound libraries & virtual instruments for leading Hollywood film composers, home-studio musicians, or millions of cell phone users, SONiVOX enjoys a worldwide reputation as a company producing "sound that rocks." For review copies and more information please contact SONiVOX at 617 718-0202 | info@sonivoxrocks.com. Follow SONiVOX on Twitter www.twitter.com/SONiVOX"
SONiVOX Sampla Hip Hop Production Sampler - Recording/Sampling Demo
