Cherry Audio Fuses Three Classic Synths into New SH-MAX Powerhouse

video uploads by Cherry Audio

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.

CROW HILL Introduces Vaults GLASS BEAKER - Free

video upload by CROW HILL

"In this video Theo takes us through the next instalment in our FREE plugin range called Vaults - Beaker. Can a big old bit of glass from a homewares shop really make a beautiful sounding instrument. It can if it's recorded at Gorbals Sound in Glasgow and performed by our founder Christian Henson. A testament to what sampling enables us and you to do, make beautiful sounds and music with nothing more than a bit of imagination and care."

Press release follows:

The Crow Hill Company creates …GLASS BEAKER as latest …VAULTS virtual instrument, free for all to download and make music with no formal training

EDINBURGH, UK: The Crow Hill Company is proud to announce availability of VAULTS - GLASS BEAKER as the latest downloadable drop in its free virtual instrument collection, created from thecnotion that music need not necessarily begin with formal training, specialist instruments, or expensive tools but instead it comes from working directly with sound — specifically, placing a microphone in front of a simple object and exploring what happens through touch, movement, and experimentation, the resulting tone of which feels familiar but resists easy identification, sitting somewhere between a glockenspiel and a celeste without being either — as of February 2…

CLICK FOR MORE »

Viscount LEGEND ‘70s MODULAR STAGE PIANO w/ SYNTH-8, FM SYNTH, & Additional Modules

video uploads by Viscount International

Playlist:

1. Introducing Legend '70s MKII | Viscount
2. Introducing FM Synth Module | Viscount Legend '70s MKII
3. A.Piano Module 2G + FM Synth Module #1 | Viscount Legend '70s MKII
4. Legend 70's MKII | A. Piano 2G Module
5. FM Synth Module Sounds Demo | Viscount Legend '70s MKII
6. A. Piano Module 2G | Legend '70s MKII
7. A.Piano Module 2G + FM Synth Module #2 | Viscount Legend '70s MKII



via Viscount

LEGEND ‘70s introduces, for the first time, the concept of MODULAR STAGE PIANO. According to your needs, you can now choose the right combination of sound generating modules with dedicated knobs and buttons. Currently the modules ELECTRIC PIANO, ACOUSTIC PIANO, CLAVI and SOUND COLLECTION are available, while many others will be available in the future, within the “ALWAYS GROWING” family. Moreover to the standard PROGRAM and EFFECTS modules an optional EXTERNAL module is available to making the instrument flexible and very powerful. The design of LEGEND ‘70s Hammer Action Keyboard perfectly matches the instrument’s sound generators. The 3 contact sensors, under each key, are able to detect the corresponding movement with the highest precision.

For the more demanding musician the LEGEND ‘70s Artist-W also offers a graded hammer arrangement where their weight becomes lighter as you climb up the keyboard.

In addition, as with the traditional acoustic grand piano, the Legend Artist-W keyboard is enhanced with real wood piano keys. These keys are made of carefully selected and seasoned wood to eliminate any defect or deformation and provide maximum uniformity and stability over time.

SYNTH-8

"A real polyphonic synthesizer with character.

Synth-8 is a two-oscillators eight-voices synthesizer with a faithful reproduction of a classic American multimode analog filter with saturation, 12dB and 24dB roll off and gritty resonance. The synth architecture is easy to understand and operate but has unique features: classical waveforms with wave shaping and detuned doubling of the oscillators with “Fat” modes, dedicated envelope for the noise, Ring Mod, Hard Sync for all oscillator modes, velocity controls for filters and envelopes. Finally, the Unison modes allow stacking up to 8 voices: with “Fat” oscillators this makes a total of 32 detuned oscillators at once! The module panel provides quick access to user’s preferred parameters by four assignable knobs. These can be also used to tweak many other parameters arranged in rows that can be navigated through dedicated buttons.

The Legend ’70s Editor has a whole screen to control the synthesizer in real-time and make the editing of new patches simple as having a real panel in your hands. The synthesizer comes with lots of pre-sets that can be selected and tweaked and stored in the Legend ’70s programs.

Last but not least, the Synth-8 module also offers a dedicated arpeggiator section, capable of cyclically playing the notes in the desired order, and 4×16 sequences that can be assigned to the generation parameters."

CLICK FOR MORE »

The Crow Hill Company Introduces VAULTS - TUNED GONGS

video upload by CROW HILL

"There is a cave, near Rome, Italy, and in that cave they make gongs. In this video Christian unveils the latest free offering as part of our vault range. An extraordinary quartet of tuned gongs, designed and used by meditation gurus as part of gong bath setups we decided, in this "first pancake" to leather them. Much to their sonic distress."

Press release follows:


The Crow Hill Company brings beautiful set of tuned gongs to free VAULTS… VI collection as …TUNED GONGS, a downloadable drop with a difference

EDINBURGH, UK: The Crow Hill Company is proud to bring a beautiful set of tuned gongs to its free VAULTS… VI (Virtual Instrument) collection as …TUNED GONGS — germinated as a downloadable drop with a difference, effectively enabling anyone to play an extraordinary quartet of harmonised gongs designed and used by meditation gurus as part of gong bath setups in a way that was never intended by their Italian creator after being bought and sampled by composer Christian Henson, original founder of the Edinburgh-based enterprise, abiding, as always, by its Make Music, Your Music motto — as of January 8…

It is sometimes said — quite often, truth be told — that All roads lead to Rome. And although that popular proverb does not apply to The Crow Hill Company’s VAULTS - TUNED GONGS in the true sense of those words’ intended meaning, Italy’s capital city could be said to have played a passing part in the VI in question’s road to reality. Composer Christian Henson picks up the tentative thread, teasing, “There is a cave, just outside Rome, and in that cave they make gongs; we’re not sponsored by them — they don’t even know we’re making this thing. They do more than you’d expect out of a big cymbal.”

Changing tact, Christian Henson clarifies: “Ask any member of The Crow Hill team about my attention span and they will say that whilst, like most of us musos, I have the capacity for hyper-focus, I’m also easily distracted — especially when it comes to something new. We’re meant to be working on a fascinating new addition to the Origins… series, but, unfortunately, I’m easy prey for an Instagram post featuring an instrument I hadn’t heard before. Correction: I’d heard gongs before; I’ve even had the chance to play one, but none that sounded like these ones. Or rather this one. The big one. So I bought a whole tree of them! That’s what’s so fulfilling about this Crow Hill project; we get to make investments on behalf of the composing fraternity, so we all get a go.”

Get this, though. “This VAULTS… features four incredible-sounding tuned gongs that were designed, I suspect, for gong bath therapy,” theorises The Crow Hill Company’s original founder, following up with some characteristically vibrant verbiage: “Beautiful, bold fundamentals; mystical, engaging harmonics; and also a bottom end that shakes the room. I very much get the feeling that these gongs are not designed to be whacked. They really do complain when they’re abused in this way. The big one… well, she growls like a distant dragon, while the smallest protests in the shape of a scoop up an entire perfect fifth before it reluctantly settles into its fundamental. We’ve basically overlapped them and layered them to give you a quite rudimentary piano-style, chromatic instrument.”

It is fair to say, then, that the sometimes badly behaving VAULTS - TUNED GONGS sounds somewhat different to any of its software siblings. Saying that, though, its intuitive GUI (Graphical User Interface) is comfortingly familiar to anyone who has laid eyes on any VAULTS… release, identical in (almost) all aspects — bar its distinguishing background colour change — to all of The Crow Hill Company’s current collection. “Front end-wise, we’ve got EXPRESSION on CC11,” continues Christian Henson. “On the gongs that are higher in pitch you do get a kind of rumble, so I would recommend being very cautious about the SUB BASS control — particularly when you close the LPF [Low Pass Filter], when there’s a super-wide low end, which is so difficult to achieve; getting that kind of fatness, but also having that stereo width is pretty incredible. If you’re confident with your bass response in your studio or on your headphones, then go for it, but this thing really does shake the room. Then we’ve got some DELAY. You can make it even wider with the REVERB, and, because we’re naughty, there’s a little bit of CRYSTALLIZER in there, which is just incredible. As always with the VAULTS… macros, they’re designed so that you can’t make it sound terrible — everything has a subtle musical quality to it.”

Concludes Christian Henson: “We’re doing something incredibly exciting; a new way of sampling, but also treating these gongs with utmost respect, appreciating their soft, infinitely nuanced harmonics that change on every hit. The distraction has become a serious one, taking weeks as they’re not easy to record. When something is shaking the room and all the air inside it, what do you mic? So we needed a test recording. What better way of ushering in 2026 than with a shuddering tree of room-shaking gongs? There are some lower dynamics in there, which will give you a sense of where we’re headed with this project — a useful tuned metallophone that’s difficult to place, but, really, the purpose of this VAULTS… is to gong these! For that odd time you need a gong for a cue, these are pure class. I also found turning my speakers up and playing at full velocity to be an excellent way of getting my teenagers down for breakfast; they don’t like them at all.”

VAULTS… releases from The Crow Hill Company — including …TUNED GONGS — are free for all to download and make music with for the rest of their lives from here: https://thecrowhillcompany.com/vaults/

For more in-depth information, please visit the dedicated VAULTS - TUNED GONGS webpage here: https://thecrowhillcompany.com/tuned-gongs/"

Modal Electronics Cobalt 8M - No talking demo

video upload by ADL-MusicLab

"Hi, everyone!

Here's to you my 'No talking demo' of the amazing Cobalt 8M by Modal Electronics.

Cobalt 8 is an 8 voice extended Virtual Analog synthesiser that unlocks the full creative potential of analogue waveforms. This powerful, inspiring instrument reinvents the aesthetics of analogue sounds and invites musicians, producers and sound designers to explore a new era of virtual-analogue synthesiser textures, far beyond the limits of its analogue forefathers.

On top of the innovative oscillator engine of COBALT8, it also has a massive arsenal of inspiring morphable and static filters. Combined with Modal’s unparalleled modulation options, an inspiring real-time / step sequencer, the energising arpeggiator, MPE, studio-quality effects and MODALapp integration, COBALT8 is the perfect synth for everyone who wants a versatile electronic music instrument to play vintage synth sounds and is eager to enter new sound dimensions.

Eight true polyphonic voices tempt players to lay out wide string or rich synth pad chords, while a monophonic bass or lead patch, played with 64 oscillators can shake the walls of every stadium. And with the avant-garde sound forming features, every synth enthusiast can refine his performance with sounds that no other synthesiser is able to generate."

Nick Klimenko - Synthesizer Museum Live (full album)

video upload by LFOstore

"LISTEN: https://cosmicleaf.gr/releases/1136/s...

Welcome to the 25th full-length album by Chronos. With this release, Nick Klimenko celebrates the opening of his personal synth museum!

In this unique space, you’ll find 190 hardware and 160 virtual instruments spanning the years 1978–2025. Chronos returns with a third live-played album, exploring the full depth of both analog and digital synthesizers. Everything was performed and recorded live in one take, inside the new museum space - https://nksynthmuseum.com/en/

Nick devoted countless hours practicing live playing, sequencing patterns and harmonies, and shaping rhythms and atmospheres for every single piece on this release.

When the time came, he simply hit the 'record' button — and played each track straight through.
This approach echoes the spirit of the 1970s, when Klaus Schulze and Tangerine Dream performed concerts entirely without computers or music software.

Musically, this album overflows with ambient and cosmic atmospheres, cinematic movements, and unique soundscapes

Tracklist:
001. Chronos - Soviet Analog Synthesizer Ambient
002. Chronos - Silentium Universi
003. Chronos - Inner Odyssey
004. Chronos - Summer Trio
005. Chronos - Alien Lights Above My Head
006. Chronos - Gamma Tauri
007. Chronos - Stellar Vector
008. Chronos - Interlude
009. Chronos - Velvet Trip

Mixed and mastered by Nick Klimenko
Cover art: Nick Klimenko / Cosmicleaf"

CONDUCTIVE LABS NDLR DESKTOP SEQUENCER

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this listing

Additional Signal Sounds listings

"A pre-owned Conductive Labs NDLR in good condition. It comes with original packaging and accessories.

Manufacturer's description
A MIDI Four-track, Sequenced Arpeggiator, Chord and Drone Player

We’ve turned complex music theory into a killer synthesizer jamming MIDI controller. With four parts that can play up to 8 synths, you can make fantastic electronic music, such as soundscapes, electronica, ambient, electro, or techno to name a few. Whether noodling in your music space after work or jamming with friends, The NDLR can take your music to amazing places!

Press one of the seven chord buttons, and the two arpeggiators and drone follow the chord notes while your polyphonic synth sings with pads.

There are start and stop buttons for each of the four parts, and a button to start/stop all parts. And there’s a “panic” button to stop all MIDI notes.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Cherry Audio Introduces Mercury-8 - Virtual Roland JUPITER-8 Soft Synth

video uploads by Cherry Audio

"Mercury-8 synthesizer builds on Cherry Audio's renowned Mercury legacy with a passionate focus on detail and modern technical advancements. Every aspect of the original hardware has been carefully modeled to capture the sound and behavior that made the JP-8 so legendary. Furthermore, Mercury-8 goes "beyond Jupiter" by offering expanded polyphony, versatile modulation options, studio-quality effects, and expressive performance capabilities. It not only captures the distinctive essence of a JP-8 but can even exchange SysEx data with MIDI-modified hardware.

https://cherryaudio.com/products/merc...

Cherry Audio and @TimShoebridge have collaborated once again to share an in-depth introductory video for Mercury-8. This comprehensive guide demonstrates how simple it is to create powerful sounds from scratch, maximize the modulation matrix, and get the most out of splits and dual layers. Additionally, the video highlights the new effects and Mercury-8's remarkable capability to import original JP-8 patch bank SysEx data via a drag-and-drop feature.

00:00 - Mission Mercury! by Mal Meehan, James Terris, and Robert Saint John
01:16 - Introducing Mercury-8 with Tim Shoebridge
02:48 - A Little Experiment
05:20 - Music: "From Scratch"
07:26 - Front Panel: VCOs and LFO
11:45 - Music: "Two Notes"
12:05 - Filters and Envelopes
15:00 - Music: "Plucks"
15:20 - Mod Matrix
16:35 - Layers, Dual and Split
18:05 - Effects
25:45 - Music: "Lo-Fi"
26:27 - Quick Tour: Sequencer, Arp, Performance, Assign Mode, and the Digital Display
27:43 - Digital Display and Expanded Settings
34:41 - Mercury-8 and JP-8: Factory Presets and SysEx Data Exchange
37:37 - Conclusion and Music: 'Timeline'"

Playlist of videos (note the desciption above is for the first video):

1. Cherry Audio | Introduction to Mercury-8 with Tim Shoebridge
2. Cherry Audio | Mercury-8 Synthesizer - NEW! - Cherry Audio and Michael Oakley Official
3. Cherry Audio | The Grid Preset Pack for Mercury-8 by Michael Oakley
4. Cherry Audio | Mercury-8: A Tour of the Presets with Mike Martin
5. Cherry Audio | JUPITER-8 x MERCURY-8 - Factory Presets Compared
6. Cherry Audio Mercury-8: Artist Demo - James Dyson
7. Cherry Audio Mercury-8: Artist Demo - Jezz Woodroffe

And two user videos:

Cherry Audio Mercury-8 Jupiter-8 Strings Pads FX VST Virtual Analog Synthesizer Rik Marston

video upload by Rik Marston Official

"My Etsy store: AhnyxianSoundDesign
https://www.etsy.com/shop/AhnyxianSou..."

Cherry Audio Mercury 8 Synthesizer 'Mercury Sunset Riders'

video upload by James Dyson

"Cherry Audio Mercury 8 Synthesizer 'Mercury Sunset Riders'

Composed with just handful of the included 'James Dyson Collection' Factory Presets that come with Mercury 8. 'More than just a Jupiter 8'

All played live and multi track recorded.

Checkout Mercury 8 here https://cherryaudio.com/products/merc..."

microKORG2 vs GAIA 2: Which synth is best?

video upload by MR TUNA Music

"Its time for a synth 2 synth showdown... what is better: The Roland GAIA 2 or the new KORG MicroKORG2? They are both very similar virtual analog subtractive synthesizers designed around portability, so why pick one over the other??

Im not sure I can answer that question but I can share some experience on what I like best about each keyboard and what I feel really stands out feature-wise and what you might even consider against them.

As usual this is an extremely impromptu and casual chat in the studio-- no script, no plan, just some good old fashioned #synthtalk

Let me know what one you'd buy or what you think is the better value!"

Roland Introduces ZENOLOGY GX - Next-gen ZEN

Overview video upload by RolandChannel

"ZENOLOGY GX brings the full power of Roland’s ZEN-Core Synthesis System into GALAXIAS, giving you access to over 11,000 tones—from iconic vintage synths to cutting-edge hybrids. Explore the massive library of sounds or build your own from scratch using the same engine found in flagship instruments like FANTOM and JUPITER-X.

ZENOLOGY GX also includes a powerful browser to help you stay organized. Search, rate, and recall presets with ease. Each tone is built from up to four partials, each with its own oscillator, filter, amplifier, dual LFOs, and effects. Shape your sound with over 90 effects, including spacious reverbs, classic Roland choruses, and more.

Inside GALAXIAS, ZENOLOGY GX becomes a super instrument. Layer up to four instances, assign key ranges, apply per-layer effects, and use creative tools like ARPS and CHORDS to build massive Scenes. You can also export your sounds to ZENOLOGY Pro or compatible ZEN-Core hardware."

00:00 Intro Overview
00:44 Immersive Mode
00:58 Sounds View for Presets
01:15 Auditioning Sounds
01:28 Tweaking Presets
02:05 Synth Engine
02:33 Filter Section
02:50 Mix Section
03:10 Step Editor and Step LFOs
03:40 Mod Tab
04:04 FX Section
04:51 GALAXIAS Capabilities
05:36 Chord Sequencer
06:31 Try ZENOLOGY GX



Additional details from Roland:

WELCOME TO THE MOTHERSHIP.

GALAXIAS brings 50 years of legendary Roland synths and drum machines together into one powerful Super Instrument. Access thousands of iconic sounds and freely combine authentic Roland instruments from vintage to modern. Explore supermassive GALAXIAS Scenes filled with intricate layers and deep macro controls. And discover exciting new worlds with infinite creative possibilities.

Legendary instruments. Iconic sounds.

Roland has been a pioneer in music technology for over half a century, delivering a continuous stream of influential instruments and effects that have fueled countless hits, defined genres, and driven cultural trends. With GALAXIAS, you can now explore and experience them all in one creative environment. From historic icons such as the JUPITER-8, TR-808, and D-50 to modern instruments like ZENOLOGY GX and SYSTEM-8, GALAXIAS harnesses Roland’s evolving sonic legacy within a single intuitive workflow.

A voyage of discovery.

Choose from your favorite Roland synths and drum machines, search specific sound types, or mine the ever-expanding collection of over 25,000 sounds to spark new ideas and build compelling tracks. GALAXIAS puts unlimited albums’ worth of inspiration at your command—from vintage sounds to futuristic hybrid tones—with more added each month.

Roland Super Instrument.

GALAXIAS lets you layer up to four instruments to create massive sonic superclusters called Scenes. Build an intricate setup of your favorite Roland instruments, such as a full stack of JUPITER and JUNO synths, or multiple eras of TR drum machines locked in perfect sync. Dial in an arpeggiator pattern (or four), quickly define key ranges and macro controls, and then play the whole thing as a single instrument in the studio or on stage.

Next-gen ZEN.

Seamlessly integrated into GALAXIAS, ZENOLOGY GX delivers over 11,000 genre-defining Roland sounds in one powerful instrument. Layer up to four instances with definable key ranges, sophisticated macro controls, per-layer effects, and creative tools like ARPS and CHORDS. Explore the vast collection of presets or craft your own using 23 authentic oscillator and filter models, over 7,000 PCM waveforms, 11 LFO shapes—including a versatile Step LFO for rhythmic movement—and 90+ effects. From studio to stage, ZENOLOGY GX puts limitless sonic potential at your fingertips.

Effectively awesome.

In addition to the formidable effects within each individual instrument, GALAXIAS gives you two insert effects per layer and two global send effects. Choose from the growing collection of authentic Roland and BOSS effects and take your sounds to new frontiers. You can also route layers to external outputs or channels in your DAW for further processing.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Sequential & Oberheim Announce Free OS Updates for Take5 & TEO-5 Adding Poly Chain and More

video upload by Sequential

"The Take 5 Poly Chain OS update is free to download! Link two units together for a massive 10-voice polysynth, explore 10 new arpeggiator modes like Spiral and Leapfrog, and experience Whiplash arp timing for dynamic rhythmic transformations. Plus, dive into fresh sound design possibilities with selectable violet noise for shimmering, airy textures. This update is all about bigger chords, deeper creativity, and inspiring new sonic landscapes! It's your Take 5 to the power of 10.

Synth sounds and drums exclusively by Take 5. Music composed by Peter Dyer.

For more information on the Take 5 Poly Chain OS Update, visit Sequential at: https://sequential.com/take-5-poly-ch..."

TEO 5 Poly Chain OS Update

video upload by Oberheim Official

"Elevate your TEO-5 with the new Poly Chain OS update! Link two TEOs together for a lush 10-voice Oberheim experience, explore 10 inspiring arpeggiator modes like Spiral and Leapfrog, and add rhythmic drama with Whiplash arp timing. Plus, expand your sound palette with violet noise for shimmering and airy textures. Step up to bigger chords, deeper creativity, and fresh sonic possibilities!

All sounds from TEO-5. Music by Peter Dyer

Learn more at https://oberheim.com/products/teo-5-p..."

And a user video by Devin Belanger, aka Miles Away:

Take 5 & TEO-5 Firmware Update // First Look + Demo (Polychain, New Features & Sounds)

video upload by Devin Belanger

"First look at the brand new firmware update for the Oberheim TEO-5 & Sequential Take 5. This update adds Polychain, new arp modes, noise options, and more — giving these synths a serious upgrade. In this video I’ll walk through what’s new and demo some of the new sounds in action."

Press releases follow:

Sequential Announces Free OS Update for Take 5 Synthesizer — Adds Poly Chain and More


OS Update introduces 10-voice Poly Chain, new arpeggiator patterns, Whiplash arp timing mode, and violet noise.

San Francisco, CA — November 6, 2025— Sequential today announced a major OS update for its popular Take 5 polyphonic synthesizer, delivering powerful new features that expand its creative capabilities. This update is free for all Take 5 owners and is available now from the Sequential website.

The centerpiece of the update is Poly Chain, which allows two Take 5s to be linked for a fully integrated 10-voice instrument. This means players can perform bigger chords and more complex arrangements without worrying about voice stealing. All front-panel controls are mirrored from one unit to the other for seamless sound tweaking, as if they were a single, expanded synth.

The arpeggiator gets a serious creative boost with 10 new play modes designed to inspire fresh rhythmic and melodic ideas. Modes like Spiral and Leapfrog introduce surprising new musical elements, creating parts that feel alive. These patterns go beyond simple up-and- down motion, using virtual “playheads” to weave intricate note paths, adding new flavor to your compositions.

Another standout feature is Whiplash, a new timing mode that keeps each arpeggiator cycle the same length regardless of how many notes you hold. The result? Notes bunch together or spread apart dynamically, producing rhythmic tension and release that stays in-step with the overall bar-length of your composition.

Finally, the update also adds violet noise, which emphasizes high frequencies while reducing low-end content. This opens up new possibilities for sound design, from smooth and shimmering textures to airy percussive layers.

"Musicians love the sound of Take 5, and we get asked regularly for ways to expand the polyphony," said David Gibbons, CEO of Sequential.

"This new software makes it possible to use it as a massive 10-voice synth — while also adding some fun and creative new capabilities."

The Sequential Take 5 combines classic Prophet-5 tone with a compact, portable design and an intuitive layout that feels great to play. With five voices of polyphony (and now ten with a desktop module companion), authentic analog oscillators, the iconic Prophet-5 filter, and deep modulation options, it’s the perfect gateway to Sequential’s legendary sound.

Download now, or get more details and hear the new Poly Chain OS features in action at https://sequential.com/take-5-poly-chain-os-update/



Oberheim Releases Free OS Update for TEO-5 Synthesizer — Adds Poly Chain and More


OS Update introduces 10-voice Poly Chain, new arpeggiator patterns, Whiplash arp timing mode, and violet noise.

San Francisco, CA — November 6, 2025— Oberheim today announced a free OS update for its acclaimed TEO-5 synthesizer, adding powerful new features that make the instrument even more versatile and inspiring. The update is now available for download from Oberheim's website.

The highlight of the update is Poly Chain, enabling two TEO-5 units to be linked for a fully synchronized 10-voice Oberheim experience. This allows for complex chords and lush textures without compromise, and all panel controls are mirrored across both units for consistent sound and performance.

Additionally, the arpeggiator now includes 10 new play modes that go far beyond traditional patterns. Modes like Spiral and Leapfrog introduce new rhythm and melody, creating parts that twist, turn, and evolve in ways that spark creativity.

Also new is Whiplash, a timing mode that keeps each arpeggiator cycle the same length no matter how many keys you hold. This means the note values shift dynamically, producing rhythmic tension and release that stays in-step with the overall bar-length of your composition.

To round out the update, violet noise joins the sonic palette. With its emphasis on high frequencies and reduced low-end content, violet noise is ideal for creating smooth shimmering textures, airy effects, and unique percussive elements.

"TEO-5 was designed to bring the classic Oberheim sound to more players," said Tom Oberheim. "This update pushes that vision further — adding features that make it even more useful and inspiring."

TEO-5 combines authentic Oberheim tone with modern creative tools. With true analog oscillators, the legendary SEM filter, linear through-zero FM, and a deep modulation matrix, TEO-5 offers a vast sonic palette in a compact, performance-ready design. Take the next step with TEO-5 and download the Poly Chain OS Update today.

The TEO-5 OS update is now available for free download at https://oberheim.com/products/teo-5-poly-chain-os-update/

MPK Mini IV | Studio Instrument Collection Plugin Virtual Instrument Presets Tour

video upload by Akai Professional

"The Studio Instrument Collection is exclusively available with the purchase of an Akai Professional MPK Mini IV. This powerful software suite brings together over 1,000+ premium instruments and presets from Akai Professional, AIR Music Tech, and Moog Music in one intuitive interface, designed to elevate your creativity the moment you plug in your controller.

At its core is an eight-knob macro system that mirrors the MPK Mini IV's hardware, making control immediate and tactile. With dedicated Keys and Pads libraries, a powerful sound browser, and randomized inspiration tools, this collection is as fun as it is functional."

Harmonium VST FREE With Crow Hill VAULTS

video upload by CROW HILL

"With Theo off on hols this week Christian opens the lid on one of his favourite instruments, The Harmonium. Think Penguin Cafe Orchestra, think Jon Brion, think a leading (albeit inanimate) character in Punch Drunk Love."

Press release follows:

The Crow Hill Company announces availability of VAULTS - HARMONIUM, bringing bellows to DAWs as latest free VI abiding by its Make Music, Your Music motto

EDINBURGH, UK: The Crow Hill Company is proud to announce availability of VAULTS - HARMONIUM — bringing bellows to DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations) as its latest free VI (Virtual Instrument) monthly drop, allowing anyone to experience the timbral complexities and harmonic layers of its gorgeous and, some might say, quaint instrument namesake for the rest of their lives, abiding, as always, by the Edinburgh-based enterprise creators’ collective Make Music, Your Music motto — as of October 24…

Its iconic appearance in Director/Writer Paul Thomas Anderson’s 2002-released dark romantic comedy Punch: Drunk Love — look it up! — may make many think of the harmonium in a certain way. What is certain, though, is that the small free-reed organ was patented way before, back in 1842 by Frenchman Alexandre Debain. By being smaller and less expensive than traditional pipe organs, it quickly became popular through Europe, India, Africa, and the southern United States. Travelling through the north of the UK, harmoniums can still be found tucked away in the corners of many recording studios. Saying that, those that are there are not just set dressing; after all, the harmonium captured the hearts of artists such as The Beatles, Supertramp, Penguin Cafe Orchestra, and Tori Amos, all of whom featured it in their music.

Making music with a harmonium is easier said than done, however, since the instrument in question generates sound by pumping air — using two foot-operated pedals joined to a mechanism that operates a bellows or by pushing and pulling a handle joined to the bellows back and forth with one hand — past a thin piece of metal in a frame and making it vibrate. Vibrations then resonate through the harmonium’s wooden body, thereby producing the distinctive, church-like sound. Thankfully, The Crow Hill Company has succeeded in capturing this sound to produce VAULTS - HARMONIUM, making it much easier for many more appreciative sound-seekers to experience its musical magic.

Composer Christian Henson — original founder of The Crow Hill Company — freely admits to being a big fan: “It’s got to be one of my favourite instruments. It can bring a simplicity to music — dare I say it, a quaintness, but because of its timbral complexities, it’s also massively expressive.”

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Novation Supernova PAD Demos Vol 2 VINTAGE SYNTH SOUNDS and MUSIC #asmr #synth #rave #technogamer

video upload by Blue Cyberia Music

"This demonstrates a series of pad sounds you can get from this fabulous VA synth from year 2000. VA stands for virtual analog and was fairly popular at the time. Watch for more videos coming up. This is volume 2 of a series.

If you want to hear some complete songs, please check out all my channel, and like and subscribe to help me reach a wider audience."

Erik Norlander Announces Keyboard Sale to Benefit the Bob Moog Foundation

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.


Reverb's press release follows. Pics are via The Bob Moog Foundation. I'll be capturing some of the listings here on MATRIXSYNTH daily for posterty. See the Erik Norlander Listings label.

October 20, 2025 (Asheville, NC) – Musician, composer, and music technologist, Erik Norlander, is selling a collection of 40+ vintage and current synthesizers and keyboards on Reverb.com starting on October 6th. Thirty percent of the proceeds will be donated to the Bob Moog Foundation to support its work in education, archive preservation, and the operations of the Moogseum. Erik Norlander’s Bob Moog Foundation Benefit Sale can be accessed here.

Some of the notable synthesizers and keyboards for sale include: Oberheim Matrix-12, OB-Xa and OB-8 analog synthesizers, Rhodes (ARP) Chroma analog synthesizer, Rhodes Mark V and Mark II electric pianos, Farfisa Compact Duo CD/30 combo organ, Farfisa Syntorchestra, Korg Maxikorg DV800, Logan String Melody string synthesizer, Roland VP-330 MK-1 Vocoder, and the Waldorf Q wavetable synth keyboard, among many others.

“I am excited to offer part of my rather sprawling keyboard collection for sale to benefit the Bob Moog Foundation,” noted Norlander.

“I have been a supporter of the Foundation since 2007, and I strongly believe in generating funding to empower its work in education, archive preservation, and the operations of the Moogseum.”

Erik Norlander is an accomplished keyboardist, composer and producer with over 40 album credits including nine solo albums, seven with his Rocket Scientists project, and 11 albums with vocalist wife, Lana Lane. He serves as a member of the Board of Advisors of the Bob Moog Foundation. Erik toured and recorded with Asia Featuring John Payne from 2007 to 2014 and recorded two albums with the Asia spinoff project, Dukes of the Orient, in the years following. He toured extensively in the US and Europe in 2016-2018 with Last in Line featuring original Dio members Vinny Appice and Vivian Campbell. Before Last in Line, Erik toured with Big Noize, a supergroup featuring hard rock all stars, Joe Lynn Turner, Simon Wright and Carlos Cavazo. Erik also wrote the music and produced the album, Roswell Six - Beyond the Horizon, in 2009 for science fiction author, Kevin J. Anderson, in support of the first of his Terra Incognita fantasy novels.

Outside of the music world, Erik co-designed the UNO Synth analog synthesizers for IK Multimedia, carrying on the legacy of his design work on the legendary Alesis Andromeda analog synthesizer in the late 1990s. Erik also created IK Multimedia’s Syntronik virtual instrument libraries based solely on samples of his synth collection along with scores of sample libraries for SampleTank 4. Prior to that, Erik was the first synthesizer product manager for Alesis Studio Electronics and presided over the creation of the QS series of synthesizers, DM5 and DM Pro drum modules and several other products. He is currently the Director of Keyboard Product Development for Moog Music and the inMusic Family of Brands."

Yamaha Introduces New MODX M Series of Synthesizers

video uploads by Yamaha Synths Official

Playlist:

1. Yamaha | MODX M | Elevate Expression Everywhere - Official Overview
2. Yamaha | MODX M | Sound Demo - Hear the Future of Expression

"Discover the new Yamaha MODX M Series, a next-generation synthesizer that elevates sound, control, and creativity for musicians everywhere.

Building on the DNA of our flagship MONTAGE M, MODX M delivers expressive performance and a professional workflow in a compact, lightweight design. Built for stage, studio, and beyond.

🎹 Key Features:
• Three powerful engines: AN-X (vintage analog), FM-X (modern digital), AWM2 (realistic acoustic instruments)
• Motion Control Synthesis: Shape sound in real time with the Super Knob, Motion Sequences & Envelope Follower
• High-resolution control: Smooth faders, knobs, and key response for ultimate expression
• Expanded Softsynth Plugin (E.S.P.): A virtual version of MODX M for your DAW (available early 2026)
• Compact, portable design: Perfect for working musicians on the move

🎧 Designed to inspire, wherever your music takes you."


Yamaha MODX M Synthesizer w/ KRAFT Music
video uploads by Kraft Music

Playlist:

1. Yamaha MODX M Synthesizer - Advanced Tutorial with Blake Angelos

Great bundle deals on the Yamaha MODX M music synthesizer:
https://kraftmusic.com/collections/ya...

Blake Angelos from Yamaha visits Kraft Music to present the MODX M music synthesizer.

00:00 Into
00:44 The DNA of flagship Montage M
01:29 Display knobs
02:21 Keyboard hold
03:50 Control matrix
04:36 Page jump
06:05 Sound engine
06:28 CFX piano samples
08:06 Keyboard action
10:12 Scenes and orchestral voices
14:19 Super Knob
17:24 Organs and rotary speaker
21:31 Trailer Toys
22:20 Smart Morph
27:17 Motion sequence
32:37 Computer integration
33:54 ESP plug-in synth
38:54 Signing off

2. Yamaha MODX M Synthesizer - All Playing, No Talking with Blake Angelos

loopop Review: Yamaha MODX M vs MODX+: vs Montage M // Everything you need to know M6/M7/M8

video upload by loopop

"Yamaha has taken the brains in its flagship synth Montage M, and put it in a much less expensive package. Here are the details and comparison to MODX+ and Montage M

Get plenty of multi-samples for it, and my In-Complete Book of Electronic Music Ideas, Tips and Tricks ► Patreon: / loopop"

Here's a timeline of the video:

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Cherry Audio Introduces Virtual Trident Mk III Synthesizer

video uploads by Cherry Audio

Playlist:

1. Cherry Audio | Introduction to Trident Mk III Synthesizer
2. Cherry Audio | Trident Synthesizer Plugin
3. Cherry Audio | Momentum Preset Pack for Trident Mk III Synthesizer

User videos:



Playlist:

1. Cherry Audio Trident: a classic cinematic synthesizer reborn! - CatSynth TV

Merch: https://shop.catsynth.com
Patreon: / catsynth
Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/catsynth

We are proud to present a detailed demo and tutorial of the new Trident MkIII, a recreation and evolution of the rare but powerful Korg Trident. Both the original and this version are really three synths in one: an analog subtractive synth, brass synthesizer, and a string machine. We go through all three sections individually and together, along with the new Motion features and effects. Along the way, we enjoy the instrument's lush and cinematic sound shining through.

2. Cherry Audio Trident MKIII Lush String Synth Virtual Analog Synthesizer VST Rik Marston

"Cherry Audio Trident MKIII - Lush String Synth!"
Virtual Synthesizer demo by Rik Marston
*Watch in HD!* *NO Talking!* *Turn it up!*

My Etsy store: AhnyxianSoundDesign
https://www.etsy.com/shop/AhnyxianSou...

3. MOMENTUM PACK For Cherry Audio Trident - James Dyson

MOMENTUM is a collection of 100 additional presets for Cherry Audio's Trident Mk III synthesizer. Created by James Dyson, this Preset Pack highlights the multi-timbral combination of Trident's Synth, Brass, and Strings sections. It takes full advantage of features like layers and splits, the sequencer, and dual arpeggiators, resulting in a stunning showcase of dynamic sounds and motion for the Trident Mk III.

https://store.cherryaudio.com/presets...

Press release follows:


Cherry Audio is pleased to announce the Trident Mk III synthesizer, a stunning virtual instrument that meticulously revives the sonic capabilities of the original Trident hardware synth. Priced at just $69, the Trident Mk III offers an authentic recreation of the classic synthesizer, significantly enhanced with new capabilities designed for today’s music producers.

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The voice of Launchkey: Novation Play Walkthrough

video upload by Novation

Chapters:
00:00 - Introducing Novation Play
00:19 - What is Novation Play? And how does Novation Play work?
01:33 - Finding drum sounds with Launchkey and Novation Play
02:15 - Choosing a bass preset with Launchkey and Novation Play
04:07 - Adding the final touches to a track with Launchkey and Novation Play
04:52 - Download Novation Play via your Novation account"

"We're delighted to announce the release of Novation Play, a virtual instrument designed to spark instant inspiration, developed in collaboration with ‪@klevgrand‬ and exclusively crafted for our Launchkey MK4. In this video, Dylan walks you through what Novation Play is, explains how it works, and highlights the features it offers. We'll demonstrate how you can incorporate Novation Play into your music production setup and explore its capabilities - showing you how to utilise Novation Play in your workflow.

Boasting over 80 expertly-designed presets, sampled from renowned synthesisers such as Novation Peak, Novation Bass Station II, Novation Nova, Sequential Prophet 6, Prophet Rev 2, and Oberheim OB-6. Functioning as a standalone desktop app and as a plugin, Play features seamless one-to-one hardware integration with Launchkey’s encoders, pads, and buttons, providing an immediate, instrument-like workflow.

Novation Play is now available to download for new and existing Launchkey MK4 owners from the 'My Software' section in your account. Download Novation Play here - https://bit.ly/_Download_Novation-Play

Learn more about Novation Play - https://bit.ly/_Novation_Play
Learn more about Launchkey - https://bit.ly/_NEW_Launchkey-White_

🎹 Suggested videos to watch next:


Playlist:

1. ONE Keyboard, Multiple Plugins, ZERO Plan (2 Hour Challenge)
2. Multiple MIDI channels, Launchkey and an epic DAWless setup
3. Sparking ideas with Scale Mode and Chord Map with Launchkey

Roland Introduces the TR-1000 Rhythm Creator w/ TR-808 and TR-909 Analog Drum Circuitry

video uploads by RolandChannel

The TR-1000 is available now for $2,699.99. Check with dealers on the right for availability.

"The TR-1000’s analog engine features 16 of the most coveted circuits from the TR-808 and TR-909, faithfully recreated from the original designs with detailed engineering and carefully selected modern components. Alongside the TR-1000’s analog voices are powerful digital sounds driven by Roland’s latest advancements, including 21 circuit-bent TR-808 and TR-909 models built with Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) technology, FM percussion, virtual analog tones, and a deep PCM library for sonic exploration and fresh textures."

Playlist:

1. Roland TR-1000 Rhythm Creator | Egyptian Lover Performance
2. Roland TR-1000 Rhythm Creator | Everything You Need to Know

User videos followed by hi-res pics and the press release:

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The Crow Hill Company Adds Roland CR-78 Based RHYTHM MACHINE to VAULTS

video upload by CROW HILL

"Step back to 1978 and discover the iconic Roland CR-78, the first programmable drum machine that changed the way artists approached rhythm. Before the 808 and modern drum machines, the CR-78 gave musicians the power to create and store their own drum patterns. In the hands of artists like Phil Collins, Peter Gabriel, and Blondie, it became iconic. For this Vault, we’ve preserved the much-loved character of the CR-78 and expanded its sonic potential with some tasteful effects."

https://thecrowhillcompany.com/free/

Press release follows:

The Crow Hill Company creates …RHYTHM MACHINE as latest free VAULTS… VI, preserving vintage classic’s character while expanding its sonic potential

EDINBURGH, UK: The Crow Hill Company is proud to announce availability of VAULTS - RHYTHM MACHINE as its latest VI (Virtual Instrument) release ready for all to download and make music with for free for the rest of their lives — literally preserving Roland’s 1978-vintage CR-78 CompuRhythm’s classic character as the Japanese giant of electronic musical instrument manufacturing’s first programmable drum machine (that changed the way artists approached rhythm and, in doing so, stamped its musical mark on a number of notable hit records that subsequently secured its iconic status in the annals of music technology history for all eternity), effectively expanding its sonic potential with some tasteful effects as a result — as of October 1…

Far from stretching the boundaries of truth, it is fair to say that the introduction of Roland’s CR-78 CompuRhythm changed the course of history as the first computer-controlled programmable drum machine. Most rhythm machines before its late-1978 introduction were preset-only affairs, forcing their users to pick from the likes of ‘Bossa Nova’, ‘Rock’, and ‘Waltz’ — more in keeping with the home organ-orientated terminology of the time. The CR-78, however, offered something new — namely, an ability to program rhythm patterns and store them in memory using the external WS-1 programmer optionally offered by Roland. Indeed, its 14 onboard instruments include bass drum, cymbals, hi-hats, rimshot, snare drum, and tambourine alongside several Latin-type sounds, such as bongos, claves, and cowbell — all generated using analogue circuits, giving it a distinctly warm, punchy character. Thanks to the CR-78’s analogue nature, though, the tempo control is not exactly surgical, but this foible only adds to its charm. And, as history has borne out, when placed in the creative musical hands of Blondie, Phil Collins, Peter Gabriel, and others, it became an iconic instrument in its own right.

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