Showing posts sorted by date for query Synths. Sort by relevance Show all posts
Showing posts sorted by date for query Synths. Sort by relevance Show all posts
Friday, March 20, 2026
Oberheim Xpander first encounter
video upload by MIDERA
"It is not my best work... but I wanted to put something up. Today, I traded some gear and ended up with an Xpander. It's pretty crazy what it can do. However, I'm not particularly enjoying editing from a distance, since the 'desktop' nature of the Xpander is such that it can't actually sit on any of my synths. It's literally bigger than my OB-6.
But it's got a very unique sound. Hopefully after I take some time I can really dig into the parameters of the instrument (and find a better way to edit it while playing).
Oberheim Xpander
Native Instruments RAUM for reverb
#xpander #nativeinstruments"
LABELS/MORE:
Native Instruments,
Oberheim,
Soft Synths
See dealers on the right for pricing and availability on gear.
See dealers on the right for pricing and availability on gear.
Erica Synths Introduces KONSTRUKT-8 // EDU DIY Drum System
video upload by Erica Synths
"KONSTRUKT-8 is an expressive live performance instrument and sound design tool – plus a hands-on deep dive into electronic circuit design. Each of its eight DIY modules comes with a detailed build guide and can be explored on a breadboard first, letting you trace every circuit design decision before assembling the final instrument.
Timeline:
00:01 - Patch 1 / Electro beat with BBD on the send
01:58 - Patch 2 / Wonky beat with FM drum triggering the Hi-Hats
03:57 - Patch 3 / Classic Untz Untz beat
06:01 - Patch 4 / Raw beat, with Feedback bass
07:55 - Patch 5 / Jam together with DIY Synth System"
KONSTRUKT-8 is an expressive live performance instrument and sound design tool – plus a hands-on deep dive into electronic circuit design.
Each of its eight DIY modules comes with a detailed build guide and can be explored on a breadboard first, letting you trace every circuit design decision before assembling the final instrument. KONSTRUKT-8 includes four fully analog drum voices:
• Kick Drum. A resonant bridged-T network produces deep, punchy kicks.
• Snare Drum. A burst of filtered transistor noise layered over a tuned resonator creates a crisp snap.
• Hi-Hat. Six dissonant square-wave oscillators are mixed, filtered, and overdriven to create metallic percussion.
• FM Drum. Two interacting oscillators form a versatile percussion voice capable of kicks, toms, bells, and cymbal-like sounds.
A four-channel drum sequencer lets you tap in rhythms that loop automatically. Under the hood, shift registers store the pattern as a circular sequence of binary data.
All voices feed into a four-channel mixer with per-channel FX sends and a master insert, allowing you to shape the entire beat with external effects or the built-in distortion and compressor.
Two effects modules complete the system: an analog bucket-brigade delay (BBD) with flanger and delay modes, plus a diode-based compressor with sidechain capability.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
Both versions ship with:
• EDU DIY Kick Drum kit
• EDU DIY Snare Drum kit
• EDU DIY Hi-Hat kit
• EDU DIY FM Drum kit
• EDU DIY Drum Sequencer kit
• EDU DIY Output Mixer 2 kit
• EDU DIY BBD kit
• EDU DIY Compressor kit
• 8 downloadable build guides
The system version also includes:
• Eurorack enclosure with integrated power supply
• 15 braided patch cables (5× 20cm, 5× 30cm, 5× 60cm)
LABELS/MORE:
Erica Synths,
New Drum Machines,
News
See dealers on the right for pricing and availability on gear.
See dealers on the right for pricing and availability on gear.
80's Gated Reverb with Nightverb!
video upload by Quincas Moreira Music
"Watch me try to be like Phil with the new firmware 1.02 for Erica Synths' amazing NIGHTVERB reverb unit!
More info here: https://www.ericasynths.lv/news/post/...
I made a whole song, "In the Water Today" :)
Stay Noisy!"
LABELS/MORE:
Erica Synths,
MATRIXSYNTH Members
See dealers on the right for pricing and availability on gear.
See dealers on the right for pricing and availability on gear.
Super JX and the MPG-7X
video upload by Starsky Carr
"The Roland Super JX (MKS-70 / JX-10) is one of Roland’s most underrated analogue polysynths. Released in 1986, it was effectively two JX-8P synth engines in one instrument, giving you 12 voices of DCO analogue synthesis, huge pads, powerful basses, and classic mid-80s Roland character.
In this video I take a deep dive into the Roland MKS-70 Super Jupiter rack synth, paired with the Retroaktiv MPG-7X programmer and the Vecoven PWM upgrade, which massively expands the capabilities of the original synth.
We explore how the controller transforms the experience compared with the original menu-driven interface, and look at the additional synthesis power introduced by the Vecoven upgrade including true PWM, additional envelopes, extra LFO, and expanded modulation routing.
Along the way I demonstrate a range of sounds including pads, basses, evolving textures and layered patches, showing why the Super JX became famous for its huge analogue pads and rich detuned sounds.
I also look at some of the performance features of the MPG-7X such as assignable controls, patch generation, chord mode, velocity crossfading and MIDI integration, which make this combination feel like a modern analogue synthesizer despite the vintage hardware.
If you're into vintage Roland synths, analogue polysynths, or classic 80s synthesis, the Super JX is a fascinating instrument sitting right at the transition between the analogue era and the rise of digital synths like the DX7.
In this video
Roland MKS-70 Super Jupiter overview
Retroaktiv MPG-7X controller deep dive
Vecoven PWM upgrade explained
Sound design examples and patch demos
Dual-layer patches and detuned pad sounds
Performance features and MIDI control
Gear used
Roland MKS-70 Super Jupiter
Retroaktiv MPG-7X controller
Vecoven PWM upgrade"
F͠o͠r͠w͠a͠r͠d͠s͠ a͠n͠d͠ B͠a͠c͠k͠w͠a͠r͠d͠s͠ i͠n͠ T͠i͠m͠e͠ /// Ambient Improvisation w/ Polygene II
video upload by Somnambule
"Hi folks!
In this piece, sound is not simply performed — it is discovered, shaped, and gently guided through shifting layers of time.
'forwards and backwards in time' is an ambient improvisation created with the Polygene II by Gene Synths.
The instrument itself feels less like a machine and more like a crafted artifact — a delicate fusion of art and sound design. Its finely detailed structure, almost ornamental in nature, reflects the sonic worlds it reveals: intricate, fragile, and deeply expressive.
Textures emerge like fragments of a submerged civilization, or like transmissions from a distant future. Each movement carries a sense of both memory and anticipation, as if the sound exists outside of linear time.
This improvisation embraces that ambiguity.
There is no fixed destination — only evolving patterns, subtle shifts, and moments that appear, dissolve, and reappear in altered form. The Polygene II becomes a medium rather than a tool, allowing intuition to lead the process.
What unfolds is a quiet exploration of atmosphere and detail —
a space where sound feels suspended, moving simultaneously forwards and backwards in time.
Ambient improvisation with the #polygene by @genesynths .
Experimental ambient, chill out soundscapes, evolving textures and modular-style synthesis.
Live ambient performance focused on atmosphere, time and sonic depth.
Best sound with headphones"
Thursday, March 19, 2026
An Inspiring Eurorack Toolbox for Audio & CV // Workshop Computer from Music Thing
video upload by DivKid
Also see Turing Machine, Workshop System & Planet of the Apes! // Music Thing Modular at Machina Bristronica
"Seeing the Music Thing Workshop System grow and develop over recent years have been a lovely thing and it made me happy to see part of it getting broken out into a Eurorack module and for that part to be the Workshop Computer. It's an 8HP Eurorack module that works as digital toolbox for audio and CV which offers all sorts of handy low level utility things, more exciting audio and CV generation and a range of more lo fi and hi fi audio FX.
Along with the release of the module are 3 new program cards from RYK, offering pitch shifting delay, vocoding, pitch to voltage and tape style recording and looping. You also get some default Music Thing cards and there's blank cards with a huge range of simple drag and drop a file over USB options for a range of community cards you can get for free too. Check out the links below, loads of info in the timing index to skip around. Enjoy!"
Wednesday, March 18, 2026
Alien 303 V2 (MONO) vs. Alien 4DX (Binaural space 3D Sound) | Acid Evolution Comparison
video upload by G-Sonique
"Alien 303 V2 (MONO) vs. Alien 4DX (Binaural space 3D Sound) comparison
Is Mono Acid dead? 🛸 In this video, we compare the legendary Alien 303 V2 with the groundbreaking Alien 4DX Binaural Topology synthesizer.
While traditional acid synths are usually mono and "flat," the new Alien 4DX uses a special 3D binaural topology that emulates analog circuits and DSP chips to place the sound directly in a 3D/4D space around your head. No quadraphonic setup needed – just your headphones or 2 speakers.
What’s the difference?
Alien 303 V2: The classic, punchy, '2D' mono acid lead that defined a generation.
Alien 4DX: A massive, organic, and harmonically rich sound that fills the entire stereo field using psychoacoustic principles (time shifts, phase distortion, and frequency modulation).
Key Features of Alien 4DX:
LABELS/MORE:
G-Sonique,
New Soft Synths,
News,
Roland,
Soft Synths
See dealers on the right for pricing and availability on gear.
See dealers on the right for pricing and availability on gear.
Sequential Circuits Prophet VS Keyboard SN 2400-1063
Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.
via this Vemia listing
Click the auction link on top when you get there for additional listings.
"I bought this at VEMIA last year because it was at a fantastic price and thought I'd risk having to do a bit of work on it at that price. In fact it was far better than I expected, perfect working order inc the aftertouch which is often not good, new OLED display, I think originally imported from Wine Country (always a good sign, never seen a bad synth from them), sounds great, looks ace, much nicer to use than the rack, plus the original manual. But I've got to be sensible. As someone else once said, too many synths. Start price is what I paid.
Back at VEMIA for photos and packing. 18GBP."
via this Vemia listing
Click the auction link on top when you get there for additional listings.
"I bought this at VEMIA last year because it was at a fantastic price and thought I'd risk having to do a bit of work on it at that price. In fact it was far better than I expected, perfect working order inc the aftertouch which is often not good, new OLED display, I think originally imported from Wine Country (always a good sign, never seen a bad synth from them), sounds great, looks ace, much nicer to use than the rack, plus the original manual. But I've got to be sensible. As someone else once said, too many synths. Start price is what I paid.Back at VEMIA for photos and packing. 18GBP."
LABELS/MORE:
Auctions,
Sequential Circuits,
VEMIA
See dealers on the right for pricing and availability on gear.
See dealers on the right for pricing and availability on gear.
Tuesday, March 17, 2026
Cycling '74 Introduces Cycling '74 RNBO Move Takeover - Experimental Alpha
video upload by Cycling '74
"Your custom RNBO instruments. Now on the Ableton Move.
Introducing the RNBO Move Takeover — a new, experimental feature that lets you export instruments created in RNBO onto Ableton's Move.
Completely take over the device to create and play your own sequencers, noise makers, and synths using RNBO.
RNBO Move Takeover also ships with several premade RNBO instruments including Granulator 3 and a no-input feedback simulator, as well as templates and helper patches to make it easy to start developing for the Move in RNBO." RNBO Move Takeover - Walk Through
video upload by Cycling '74
More Info: https://cycling74.com/products/rnbo/move
Documentation: https://rnbo.cycling74.com
LABELS/MORE:
Ableton,
Max/MSP,
Soft Synths
See dealers on the right for pricing and availability on gear.
See dealers on the right for pricing and availability on gear.
Korg multi/poly - "Berlin Legacy" (40 Performances)
video upload by LFOstore
"Echoes from the golden age of electronic music — reborn with one of the most versatile modern synths! "Berlin Legacy" is a deeply evocative collection of 40 exclusive performances crafted specifically for the Korg multi/poly. This soundset channels the hypnotic spirit of the Berlin School — pulsating sequences that drive like unstoppable rhythms of time, soaring leads that pierce the atmosphere, and vast, breathing pads that fill the sonic horizon with analog warmth and digital precision!
Drawing inspiration from the pioneering works of Tangerine Dream and Klaus Schulze, these performances harness the Multi/poly's four-layer architecture, rich analog-modeled filters, powerful modulation matrix, and motion sequencing to deliver authentic retro-futurism with contemporary depth and playability.
A key advantage of this library: many sequences are designed as multi/split performances — the left hand triggers evolving, rhythmic sequences (classic Berlin-style arpeggios, driving basslines, or layered patterns), while the right hand plays expressive leads, melodic lines, or lush pads. This split/layer approach turns the multi/poly into a true performance powerhouse: one patch, two hands, infinite cosmic journeys.
All performances are heavily modulated — modulation wheel, velocity, 4 modulation knobs, and real-time controls add dynamic movement and expressiveness. From hypnotic, sequencer-driven grooves to ethereal, drifting soundscapes and cutting, melodic solos, "Berlin Legacy" bridges vintage analog soul with the Multi/poly's modern hybrid engine!
Please find more information here - https://ottolfo.sellfy.store/p/multip..."
LABELS/MORE:
Korg,
MATRIXSYNTH Members
See dealers on the right for pricing and availability on gear.
See dealers on the right for pricing and availability on gear.
POLYEND TRACKER MINI PORTABLE AUDIO WORKSTATION
Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.
via this listing
Additional Signal Sounds listings
"A pre-owned Polyend Tracker Mini in very good condition. It comes with original packaging and accessories.
Manufacturer's description
Discover the ultimate portable music workstation with the Tracker Mini. Designed for seamless composition, sampling, sound design, and performance, this device offers an expanded 16-track sequencer alongside unique synth and drum machine engines for unparalleled flexibility. With support for 14 stereo tracks of USB Audio and USB MIDI, it's perfect for multi-track recording into a DAW or hybrid setups. Enjoy up to eight hours of battery life for on-the-go creativity, and keep your Tracker Mini safe with the included travel case. Whether in the studio or outdoors, the Tracker Mini empowers musicians to create, mix, master, and export their music effortlessly.
Synths and Drum Machines:
The Tracker Mini excels with four advanced synth engines and a new drum machine synth, focusing on superior sound quality. The intuitive Synth Patch Editor speeds up patch creation and customization, offering a vast range of sounds. From lush pads and intricate arpeggios to powerful basses and robust electronic drums, the Tracker Mini is a synth powerhouse that meets all your creative needs. Dive into ACD for iconic monosynth recreations, FAT for rich analog warmth, VAP for complex polysynth designs, and WTFM for unique FM synthesis. The PERC drum instrument covers everything from classic 808s and 909s to experimental glitch effects.
Studio in Your Hands:
The Tracker Mini provides everything required to produce an album. Start with an included sample pack or explore over 250 synth presets. Record your own sounds, convert samples to instruments, and resample synth engines. Control external devices seamlessly, whether crafting simple beats or complex compositions. Mix, master, and export your songs with ease, making the Tracker Mini an all-in-one solution for any musician. Compatible with projects from the original Tracker, you can begin a song in the studio and finish it on the go, ensuring flexibility and convenience in your music production process.
Breathe Life into Your Tracks:
Transform your surroundings into a musical canvas with the Tracker Mini’s high-quality microphone and onboard battery, offering up to eight hours of playtime. Capture sonic memories from a camping trip or your morning commute to create unique sample packs and drum kits. This portable device inspires creativity beyond the studio, enabling you to store, manipulate, and draw inspiration from real-world sounds. The Tracker Mini ensures that wherever inspiration strikes, you're equipped to turn those moments into music."
via this listing
Additional Signal Sounds listings
"A pre-owned Polyend Tracker Mini in very good condition. It comes with original packaging and accessories.
Manufacturer's description
Discover the ultimate portable music workstation with the Tracker Mini. Designed for seamless composition, sampling, sound design, and performance, this device offers an expanded 16-track sequencer alongside unique synth and drum machine engines for unparalleled flexibility. With support for 14 stereo tracks of USB Audio and USB MIDI, it's perfect for multi-track recording into a DAW or hybrid setups. Enjoy up to eight hours of battery life for on-the-go creativity, and keep your Tracker Mini safe with the included travel case. Whether in the studio or outdoors, the Tracker Mini empowers musicians to create, mix, master, and export their music effortlessly.
Synths and Drum Machines:
The Tracker Mini excels with four advanced synth engines and a new drum machine synth, focusing on superior sound quality. The intuitive Synth Patch Editor speeds up patch creation and customization, offering a vast range of sounds. From lush pads and intricate arpeggios to powerful basses and robust electronic drums, the Tracker Mini is a synth powerhouse that meets all your creative needs. Dive into ACD for iconic monosynth recreations, FAT for rich analog warmth, VAP for complex polysynth designs, and WTFM for unique FM synthesis. The PERC drum instrument covers everything from classic 808s and 909s to experimental glitch effects.
Studio in Your Hands:
The Tracker Mini provides everything required to produce an album. Start with an included sample pack or explore over 250 synth presets. Record your own sounds, convert samples to instruments, and resample synth engines. Control external devices seamlessly, whether crafting simple beats or complex compositions. Mix, master, and export your songs with ease, making the Tracker Mini an all-in-one solution for any musician. Compatible with projects from the original Tracker, you can begin a song in the studio and finish it on the go, ensuring flexibility and convenience in your music production process.
Breathe Life into Your Tracks:
Transform your surroundings into a musical canvas with the Tracker Mini’s high-quality microphone and onboard battery, offering up to eight hours of playtime. Capture sonic memories from a camping trip or your morning commute to create unique sample packs and drum kits. This portable device inspires creativity beyond the studio, enabling you to store, manipulate, and draw inspiration from real-world sounds. The Tracker Mini ensures that wherever inspiration strikes, you're equipped to turn those moments into music."
LABELS/MORE:
Auctions,
Polyend,
Signal Sounds
See dealers on the right for pricing and availability on gear.
See dealers on the right for pricing and availability on gear.
Monday, March 16, 2026
Xenodrive and DB-01 twins (no talk)
video upload by Richard DeHove
"Why does the Xenodrive not want to let me go? I've had all sorts of good intentions for other content and other devices, stuff that I'm really impatient to show, yet here are we are with the Xenodrive again. I suspect it's down to two things: First that I've cycled through loads of dirt pedals and effects and rarely found one that has more than a single good sound. The Darkglass B3K for example has a brilliant effect on synths, but despite having four knobs and two buttons, it only has one sound. The Xeno has loads of flavors to explore. Second reason I am fixated on this device is that it's finally given me the 'punk synth' sound I've always wanted. Which is largely what we have in this video.
I originally had a big blabfest at the start of this video talking about the Xenodrive in detail but on sudden impulse I cut it all out. I think I was mesmerized by the Xeno and it was giving me instructions. I must exert my free will while I can. If my next video features the Xeno, send help.
Routing here is the MIDI out from the master DB-01 (left) to the rightside DB-01. The master DB-01 has an 8-step random-generated pattern, the leftside DB-01 is empty. Audio goes from each DB-01 to the Xeno left and right. As usual there is absolutely no other processing.
Many thanks to my kind patrons who keep this channel ad-free" My website: https://richarddehove.com/"
LABELS/MORE:
Erica Synths,
MATRIXSYNTH Members
See dealers on the right for pricing and availability on gear.
See dealers on the right for pricing and availability on gear.
Hexdrums Deep Dive // All the tones!
video upload by Starsky Carr
"In this video I take a full deep dive into the Erica Synths Hexdrums – exploring every voice, tone, pattern function and performance feature to see just how powerful this drum machine really is.
From 909-style kicks and 808-inspired hats to dirty punchy snares, claps, rim shots, crashes and rides, we’ll go through all 10 drum voices in detail. I’ll show you how easy it is to build patterns, record live, use step programming, adjust exclusivity/fade between hats, and shape everything through the master distortion section for those gnarly, meaty, fat techno rhythms.
We’ll also look at:
✔️ Pattern selection & step sequencing
✔️ Live recording workflow
✔️ Multi-bar patterns (up to 4 bars per channel)
✔️ Individual outs on the rear panel
✔️ Master distortion section
✔️ Sample selection for cymbals
✔️ Performance tricks & groove ideas
If you’re into drum machines, analogue rhythm design, techno, electro, synthwave, or classic 808/909 workflows — this one’s for you.
This isn’t just a quick overview… it’s a proper hands-on demo so you can hear exactly what Hexdrums can do in real-world use."
Modern Moog Bass - Messenger Filter Modes (no talking)
video upload by Pete Midi
"Moog has defined the synthesizer bass sound for decades. From all Moog mono synths the Messenger provides the widest sound spectrum and in particular, can add interesting variants to the classical bass theme. Here I go through the 4 different filter modes to show the power and flexibility of this synth.
0:00 4P Low Pass
1:35 Band Bass
2:52 High Pass
3:47 2P Low Pass
Recorded with Ableton Live 11 using VISCO and Steampipe 2 (NI Reaktor) plugins for the backing track."
Could be better? ✨"Project" Sound Bank for Waldorf Quantum - Iridium - Iridium Core
video upload by SMV Producer
"Hello,
here is my latest sound bank for these amazing synths. Have a look and enjoy this trip✨
Sound banks available for purchase at: https://gumroad.com/smvproducer
Other links:
Bandcamp : https://sergiomassimilianovarvazzo.ba...
Instagram: / smv_producer
Smartlink: https://ffm.bio/smv_producer"
TIMELINE
00:00 Particle Drum
01:10 Drum And Bass
02:09 Is it Fm?
03:02 High Sweep
LABELS/MORE:
MATRIXSYNTH Members,
Waldorf
See dealers on the right for pricing and availability on gear.
See dealers on the right for pricing and availability on gear.
Sunday, March 15, 2026
Vintage ARP Odyssey Mk I White 2800 Analog Synthesizer Keyboard
Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.
via this eBay listing
via this eBay listing
Friday, March 13, 2026
Starsky Carr's Studio: Vintage & Modern Synth Setup Explained
video upload by Starsky Carr
"Welcome to a full synth studio tour — a look inside my hardware setup featuring vintage analog synths, modern wavetable instruments, modular gear and classic drum machines.
See how a mix of vintage synths, modern instruments, modular gear and drum machines all come together in one integrated setup. In this video I walk through the studio, explain how everything is connected, and show some of the instruments that regularly appear on the channel.
The studio is constantly evolving as new synths arrive, others get repaired, and different setups are tested for videos. In this walkthrough you'll see how classic gear like the Juno-60, Prophet series, Minimoog, TR-808, TR-909 and Jupiter synths sit alongside modern instruments such as the UDO Super 8, Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave, Waldorf M, Arturia PolyBrute and Roland System-8.
I also explain how everything is routed through the studio — from CV-controlled vintage synths integrated with MIDI, to the AudioFuse interface and Neve summing mixer that handle the audio side of things.
If you've ever wondered how to organise a hardware synth studio, integrate vintage CV instruments with modern DAWs, or just want to see a room full of iconic synths and drum machines, this video gives you a behind-the-scenes look at the setup behind the channel.
You’ll also hear a few stories along the way — including the slightly ridiculous “six degrees of separation” link from my studio gear to Charlize Theron and Kevin Bacon through the Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels soundtrack.
Whether you're into analog synthesis, wavetable synths, modular gear, or classic drum machines, this studio tour is packed with gear, ideas and inspiration.
Gear featured (selection)
• Roland Juno-60
• Roland Jupiter series
• Moog Minimoog, Voyager % Sub37
• Sequential Prophet synths
• Oberheim OBX8 and OB6
• UDO Super 8
• Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave
• Waldorf M
• Arturia PolyBrute
• Roland System-8
• TR-808 / TR-909 drum machines
• Analog Solutions Leipzig & Fusebox
• Modular & Eurorack gear"
LABELS/MORE:
Analogue Solutions,
Arturia,
eurorack,
Groove Synthesis,
MOOG,
Oberheim,
Roland,
Sequential,
Sherman,
Studio Tours,
UDO,
Waldorf
See dealers on the right for pricing and availability on gear.
See dealers on the right for pricing and availability on gear.
A "JP-8000" in your DAW for FREE
video upload by mylarmelodies
"Meet the DSP6300 crew and 'JE-8086', part their amazing ongoing project to make the firmware in 90's virtual analogue synths run in a modern DAW as a VST plugin. FOR FREE. 🔗 https://dsp56300.wordpress.com/ 👉 / mylarmelodies 🙌 MORE LINKS BELOW
Thanks to those who sent me the lecture - it's really interesting if you'd like to understand how this was achieved!
MORE INFO
▶︎ DSP56300 Site (the plugin is called "JE-8086"): https://dsp56300.wordpress.com/
▶︎ Roland's Official JP-8000 Firmware is here: https://www.roland.com/global/support..
. ▶︎ Lecture video by the creators on how it was done: • 39C3 - From Silicon to Darude Sand-storm: ... [video below]
▶︎ The DSP56300 donation link from the app: https://paypal.me/dsp56300
▶︎ More talks from them: https://media.ccc.de/search?p=giulioz
CHAPTERS:
00:00 This sounds familiar.
00:42 The sound, the feat
02:07 How it was done
03:41 Legal implications of ROMs
04:27 A quick fiddle
06:49 How to install & support it
39C3 - From Silicon to Darude Sand-storm: breaking famous synthesizer DSPs
video upload by media.ccc.de
"https://media.ccc.de/v/39c3-from-sili...
Have you ever wondered how the chips and algorithms that made all those electronic music hits work? Us too!
At The Usual Suspects we create open source emulations of famous music hardware, synthesizers and effect units. After releasing some emulations of devices around the Motorola 563xx DSP chip, we made further steps into reverse engineering custom silicon chips to achieve what no one has done before: a real low-level emulation of the JP-8000. This famous synthesizer featured a special "SuperSaw" oscillator algorithm, which defined an entire generation of electronic and trance music. The main obstacle was emulating the 4 custom DSP chips the device used, which ran software written with a completely undocumented instruction set. In this talk I will go through the story of how we overcame that obstacle, using a mixture of automated silicon reverse engineering, probing the chip with an Arduino, statistical analysis of the opcodes and fuzzing. Finally, I will talk about how we made the emulator run in real-time using JIT, and what we found by looking at the SuperSaw code.
This talk is a sequel to my last year's talk Proprietary silicon ICs and dubious marketing claims? Let's fight those with a microscope!", where I showed how I reverse engineered a pretty old device (1986) by looking at microscope silicon pics alone, with manual tracing and some custom tools. Back then I claimed that taking a look at a more modern device would be way more challenging, due to the increased complexity.
This time, in fact, I've reverse engineered a much modern chip: the custom Roland/Toshiba TC170C140 ESP chip (1995). Completing this task required a different approach, as doing it manually would have required too much time. We used a guided automated approach that combines clever microscopy with computer vision to automatically classify standard cells in the chip, saving us most of the manual work.
The biggest win though came from directly probing the chip: by exploiting test routines and sending random data to the chip we figured out how the internal registers worked, slowly giving us insights about the encoding of the chip ISA. By combining those two approaches we managed to create a bit-accurate emulator, that also is able to run in real-time using JIT.
In this talk I want to cover the following topics:
What I learned since my previous talk by looking at more complicated chips
Towards automating the silicon reverse engineering process
How to find and exploit test modes to understand how stuff works
How we tricked the chips into spilling its own secrets
How the ESP chip works, compared to existing DSP chips
How the SuperSaw oscillator turned out to work
giulioz
https://events.ccc.de/congress/2025/h..."
LABELS/MORE:
DSP56300,
Roland,
Soft Synths
See dealers on the right for pricing and availability on gear.
See dealers on the right for pricing and availability on gear.
Blue Techno
video upload by itramtal
"Erica Synths DB-01 & LXR02, Nightverb & Zen Delay, Sequential OB-6, Pro2."
LABELS/MORE:
DSI,
Erica Synths,
Oberheim
See dealers on the right for pricing and availability on gear.
See dealers on the right for pricing and availability on gear.
Moog Opus 3 — "New Old Stock" Sliders, Switches, Controls, Control Caps & Knobs SN 5828
Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.
via this eBay listing
"The Moog Opus 3 is a vintage polyphonic synth that combines string, organ and brass sounds in a four-octave keyboard, along with flexible controls for shaping each sound.

One of the coolest things about the Opus 3 is that it has a classic Moog four-pole filter that the brass and organ can be run through. The filter has the sound Moogs are famous four, and it can be run into self-oscillation.
The synth also features a three-phase chorus effect that uses the famed Reticon bucket brigade chips, as well as stereo and mono outputs.
Here are details about the unit for sale:
The old, deteriorating foam that sat below the control panel has been removed from this one, so you don’t have to worry about it.
All of the sliders, switches and rotary controls — except for the master volume — were changed out for New Old Stock replacements. All the slider caps and control knobs are New Old Stock as well. Everything works smoothly, with no noise or issues.
The master volume has very minor crackle at the top end of its range while it’s being moved. It is otherwise noise-free during normal operation. I would have had it changed out but it wasn’t possible to source an original replacement.
One of the three original Reticon chips in the chorus effect was replaced when an original failed. All three are working, and the chorus sounds great.
The original red LED in the Modulation section was swapped out for a new bright blue LED.
I wasn’t able to test the sustain jack on the unit’s front panel. Moog chose an unusual size jack here— it’s slightly smaller than a 1/4-inch input. It would be easy to swap it out with a proper 1/4-inch jack if you choose to do so.
The physical condition is very good. Note the scratches to the wood and some minor marks on the faceplate.
All of the notes sound as they should, and all controls and functions work as they should.
HELPFUL NOTES
Although its functions are basic, you’ll need to understand the signal routing in the Opus 3. These are spelled out in the owner's manual (which is available online), but knowing the following will help you get your head around it.
For example, the chorus effect operates on the strings and organ, not on the brass. This is by design and is noted by an arrow on the control panel.
The Moog four-pole VCF can be used on the organ and brass, not the strings. Again, this is by design and is noted by an arrow on the control panel.
Frequency Modulation works on all sounds, but VCF modulation only works on the organ and brass because these are the two sounds that can be run through the VCF (see the point immediately above). Again, this is by design.
The length of chorus delay is set by using the delay fader in the Modulation section. This too is by design.
Two other noteworthy points:
• The pitch wheel has a firm detent (the point at which it sits at pitch). Other owners have noted the same thing about their units in online forums. It’s not difficult to work, but it’s firmer than on other synths I’ve owned.
• All of the electronics, aside from those mentioned above, are original and working fine. Electrical components can fail or become damaged with time and/or misuse. Always be sure you are connected to proper voltage, and note that ground loops can introduce hum."
via this eBay listing
"The Moog Opus 3 is a vintage polyphonic synth that combines string, organ and brass sounds in a four-octave keyboard, along with flexible controls for shaping each sound.

One of the coolest things about the Opus 3 is that it has a classic Moog four-pole filter that the brass and organ can be run through. The filter has the sound Moogs are famous four, and it can be run into self-oscillation. The synth also features a three-phase chorus effect that uses the famed Reticon bucket brigade chips, as well as stereo and mono outputs.
Here are details about the unit for sale:
The old, deteriorating foam that sat below the control panel has been removed from this one, so you don’t have to worry about it.
All of the sliders, switches and rotary controls — except for the master volume — were changed out for New Old Stock replacements. All the slider caps and control knobs are New Old Stock as well. Everything works smoothly, with no noise or issues.
The master volume has very minor crackle at the top end of its range while it’s being moved. It is otherwise noise-free during normal operation. I would have had it changed out but it wasn’t possible to source an original replacement.
One of the three original Reticon chips in the chorus effect was replaced when an original failed. All three are working, and the chorus sounds great.
The original red LED in the Modulation section was swapped out for a new bright blue LED.
I wasn’t able to test the sustain jack on the unit’s front panel. Moog chose an unusual size jack here— it’s slightly smaller than a 1/4-inch input. It would be easy to swap it out with a proper 1/4-inch jack if you choose to do so.
The physical condition is very good. Note the scratches to the wood and some minor marks on the faceplate.
All of the notes sound as they should, and all controls and functions work as they should.
HELPFUL NOTES
Although its functions are basic, you’ll need to understand the signal routing in the Opus 3. These are spelled out in the owner's manual (which is available online), but knowing the following will help you get your head around it.
For example, the chorus effect operates on the strings and organ, not on the brass. This is by design and is noted by an arrow on the control panel.
The Moog four-pole VCF can be used on the organ and brass, not the strings. Again, this is by design and is noted by an arrow on the control panel.
Frequency Modulation works on all sounds, but VCF modulation only works on the organ and brass because these are the two sounds that can be run through the VCF (see the point immediately above). Again, this is by design.
The length of chorus delay is set by using the delay fader in the Modulation section. This too is by design.
Two other noteworthy points:
• The pitch wheel has a firm detent (the point at which it sits at pitch). Other owners have noted the same thing about their units in online forums. It’s not difficult to work, but it’s firmer than on other synths I’ve owned.
• All of the electronics, aside from those mentioned above, are original and working fine. Electrical components can fail or become damaged with time and/or misuse. Always be sure you are connected to proper voltage, and note that ground loops can introduce hum."
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© Matrixsynth - All posts are presented here for informative, historical and educative purposes as applicable within fair use.
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MATRIXSYNTH - EVERYTHING SYNTH
© Matrixsynth - All posts are presented here for informative, historical and educative purposes as applicable within fair use.
MATRIXSYNTH is supported by affiliate links that use cookies to track clickthroughs and sales. See the privacy policy for details.
MATRIXSYNTH - EVERYTHING SYNTH












































