Arturia Introduces iSpark for iPad

Published on Feb 18, 2016 ARTURIA

iTunes: Arturia iSpark - Arturia

And a set of Tutorials, including some by SYNTH ANATOMY.

iTunes: Arturia iSpark - Arturia

"iSpark is an all-inclusive beat-making solution allowing to create rich tracks from A to Z while experiencing an unequaled workflow. It includes a large variety of drum kits and individual instruments based on the most renowned drum machines and top-notch sound design.
It is the result of a simple recipe, care for rhythm, innovation and uncompromising ergonomics combined with the personality of the greatest drum machines.

What you can do with iSpark:
iSpark allows you to play drum patterns in-real time and to tweak your sound on-the-fly. Its optimized and performance-oriented layout gives you a direct access to an extended range of sonic parameters.
It also integrates a powerful and flexible 64-step sequencer enhancing your creative freedom and effectiveness.

iSpark unites our multi-rewarded TAE® technology coupled with a modular engine and crystal-clear multi-layered samples. Beyond drum and percussive sounds, iSpark blasts the frontiers of beat-making through a range of singular sonic effects, warm analog synth textures and melodic elements.

Details:
Main screen
The main screen is all about performance. Its layout, inspired by our SparkLE controller, gives you immediate access to a comprehensive set of fundamental controls and parameters. Its lower part allows you to play and record your drum patterns in real-time, step by step, to jump between your patterns and to set their length.

Mixer
In the mixer, you can adjust the volume and panorama of your instruments, set two individual effects for each of them, and modify the sending levels to the return effects. The VU meters help you to balance effectively your instruments.

Studio
The Studio is the iSpark laboratory of sound. This is where you will customize your kits and all the instruments that compose it. For each instrument, you can choose the samples that are used and adjust a comprehensive list of parameters.

Sequencer
In the sequencer screen, all the steps of your different instruments are right in front of you. You can thus create your sequences in a flash. Besides, the automation tool allows you drawing modulation curves with a simple glide of your fingertip.

Song
The Song mode gives you the possibility to chain your pattern in order to create a whole performance. Organizing your song is as easy as a drag-and-drop. Switch to “Perform” and discover two large XY modulation touchpads that will bring your songs to life.

Connectivity:
iSpark offers a total and seamless compatibility with the existing Spark environment. Maintain continuously your creative flow by transferring in a heartbeat your projects, patterns, your kits and individual instruments between Spark 2 and iSpark.
Connect the dedicated SparkLE controller to iSpark and associate the flexibility of an app-based instrument to the effectiveness and comfort of hardware.
The compatibility with AudioBus and Inter-App Audio offers a smooth integration of iSpark in you iPad-based setup.
With iSpark, your mobile setup found its beat-making solution.


Main features:
Pristine quality sound engines including: TAE® analog synthesis, physical modeling, and multi-layered samples provided by our top-tier development partners
· 640 Instruments / 40 kits
- Classic drum machines
- Electronic kits
- Acoustic kits
· Shuffle and shift modes to humanize grooves
· Choke groups to mute instruments naturally
· Song mode with 16 segments
· Song segment triggering from hardware
· Performance master effects: repeat, tape, reverse, strobe, pan, mix, bit crusher, 8-mode filter and Roller
· 16-track mixer with high-quality effects: multiband compressor, bit crusher, multiband EQ, chorus, delay, reverb, distortion, phaser, plate reverb, destroyer, flanger, space pan, limiter, sub generator
· Real-time automation on all parameters
· Compatible with SparkLE controller
· Ableton Link integration
· Possibility to share projects, kits and instruments between iSpark and the desktop version of Spark 2."

Kurzweil K250 synth FULLY RESTORED with Pedal Board

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

via this auction

Pics of the inside below.

"Up for auction a Kurzweil K250 synthesizer in fully working, fully RESTORED condition. it looks awesome, works the same.

Keyboard:

K250 has an unique full height wood keyboard which is built on the same way as a piano with balance-beams. It was cleaned with the passion, every wooden key was checked, adjusted and lubricant was added to the mechanics. It fills like new when you play it with right action and the response.

Technical:

Keyboard is running OS6 and has all motherboard sockets populated with sound banks. These are Soundblocks A, B,C, D. It also has QLS interface installed, and QLS -to- Macintosh cable is included. I can make an Apple Macintosh with the programs and sound sets for K250 if required.

Front panel has all sliders cleaned up and the LCD display was replaced to VFD one. it looks nice and bright.

Power Supply was also cleaned (looks as brand -new) and was completely recapped. It runs very stable.

Other details:

K250 comes with its original stand, which is hard to find item, and the ORIGINAL shipping box which has a palette directly attached(yes, it's fun box). It was stored in the box most of its life and has minimal wear. This also means that I can ship it anywhere without additional packaging. But the shipment will come in two packages anyways, - huge box on palette with K250 and Power supply (incl. manuals) in another separate box.

You'll receive:
1. Kurzweil K250 in the original box
2. Original keyboard stand
3. Power Supply (combined with foot pedals)
4. Many Manuals
5. QLS cable to connect it to Macintosh"

CLICK FOR MORE »

Korg Delta Vintage 80s Analog String Synth DL-50

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

via this auction

"These are cool little synths for a certain kind of sound, along the lines of a Moog Opus III, being a fully mixable 'synth' & 'string' section, fairly straightforward, but still characterful.

The synth is more like an organ with slider volumes for various footages, which can be put through the ADSR & analogue filter.

The strings have a balance, EQ & AR envelope knobs.

Tones are nice & strong as is, can be wonderful through a delay, reverb or phaser!

Soundwise, I think if you're a fan of the instrumental side of 'Low' (the album) you'll get the idea. Deltas were also used by Broadcast & The Human League (the reason I kept an eye out for one), so darn fine company, I'd say.

Condition, I'd say good for age, there are marks & scrapes but nothing too extreme, some of the lettering has worn away in places, but no cracks or dents.

There are 2 things that affect at least half of all the Deltas I've seen..

Sure enough, the joystick is snapped off at the top. It is still useable & fully working. If you wanted you could add a sleeve of metal tubing to extend it's length again, that could crimp on at the bottom. Another solution is simply to pop a biro lid on the top, fits a treat!

The other really common issue is a fault on the filter which causes the synth section to stop working. This one was no exception, but I replaced the offending capacitors (did a good job!) & it's been perfect ever since (about 2/3 years).

This particular synth is fully functional apart from one slider, which has never worked in those 2/3 years, but after 6 months of inactivity has suddenly burst back into life.. The noise slider in the synth section is (was) inactive, but now seems to be fully working. But I'd still look at this as 'Noise not working'. You can absolutely live without it, but it does sound nice for those filtered White Noise sweeps. I reckon this would have to be the slider or a solder joint in that section, can't think of any components that would die then come back to life again.

Worth pointing out that I always clean everything I get, so no gunk on the knobs, no dirty keys, all the switches, jacks & sliders were Servisol'd & the front panel was polished while I repaired the filter."

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Sequential Circuits Prophet 600 SN 1808

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

via this auction

"If you are reading this, you already know what you are looking at. What sets this synth apart is the fact that it has been kept in a clean, smoke-free, studio environment for the first 8 years of its life and then in a music room unused for the balance of the time.

It has never been taken to a live gig, had drinks spilled on it, or been dropped or sweated all over. I am mainly a guitarist and producer. It has been lightly used for bass lines or fill parts in music I was producing in New Orleans in the early 80s. Since then, it has been sadly unfulfilled... sitting on an acoustic piano in my music room. It works fine, and is a one owner piece. The serial # illustrates the classic nature of this vintage piece. It is original and unmolested... not hacked, or customized in any way."

Stevie Wonder. Live. NYC. 1972.

Published on Oct 6, 2013 Charlie Brad·6 videos

ARP 2600. Spot the rest.

1. For Once In My Life
2. If You Really Love Me
3. Superwoman
4. You And I
5. Interview
6. What's Going On/My Cherie Amour
7. Blowing In The Wind
8.With A Chid's Heart
9. Love Having You Around
10. Signed Sealed Delivered/Papa Was A Rolling Stone
11. Superstition
12. Maybe Your Baby/Superstition Outro
13. Uptight Everything's Alright

Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976,
allowance is made for "fair use" for purposes such as criticism,
comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship,and research.
Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing.
Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use.

Stevie Wonder. Live. NYC. 1972.

Roland's AIRA Officially Unveiled - Massive Pic Gallery, Details, Videos

AIRA — Artists make first contact with AIRA

Published on Feb 13, 2014 RolandChannel·835 videos

"Groundbreaking artists talk about their experiences with Roland instruments and make first contact with the AIRA gear. Artists appearing are: Arthur Baker, Ricardo Villalobos, A Guy Called Gerald, Rain Man, Netsky, Oscar Burnside, Boys Noize, Dr Meaker, Hardfloor, John Heckle, Hisashi Saito, and Akkord."

This post might take a bit to load. :)

Update3: You can find a write-up on Novamusik here.

Update2: You can find comments and discussion on this post on The MATRIXSYNTH Lounge here. I also added a page break for this post on the main site so it doesn't slow the site down for new posts. Click the "Click for more" link to get to the full post.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Roland Jupiter 6 with Europa Mod

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

via this auction

"BIG FAT POLYSYNTH in virtually factory fresh condition.

After looking at several JP6s I bought this from Tonetweakers in the US five years ago, they said it was by far the nicest Jupiter 6 they had ever seen.

COSMETICS - Mint, really almost as it left the factory in 1983. There is a teeny tiny hairline scratch top left of the control panel running through the a of the Roland logo, anything else you see in the pictures is just dust or fingerprints! It really belongs in a museum, except then it would never get used, which would be a tragedy.

All knobs and buttons and LEDs are present/working and none have faded or gone yellow with age. The keyboard is springy, even and white. Even the performance section, which usually takes a bashing is unmarked, as is the back. It must have spent most of its life in a box to have survived so well, it's certainly never been gigged or left open to the air and sunlight in a smoky studio.

FUNCTION - Everything works perfectly, big fat analogue badness. In Unison mode it sounds like an OBX-a and even in standard poly it sounds amazing. It's capable of an enormous range of sounds from huge pads and crisp strings to quirky Moog-y filter bloops.

This example has the desirable EUROPA upgrade from SynthCom in V2.0 guise which not only upgrades the MIDI to embrace modern features but also upgrades the arpeggiator to include various modes including random (as in the JP4 on Rio). It also adds patch saving/loading via MIDI (making the dreaded tape dump obsolete), factory patch setting restoration and even a small sequencer - read more on their site - http://www.synthcom.com/Europa/europaFaq.html

Basically the Europa means you can really use this board as part of a modern studio setup and best of all it adds PATCH LAYERING! You can now layer the upper keyboard patch on top of the lower patch and control it with the BALANCE knob. This adds a wealth of sounds the standard JP6 can't get close to and really bites at the ankles of the Jupiter 8!!

Andy Collins (Gary Numan's synth man in Sussex) replaced a capacitor on the two-voice board for me last year, since when it's sounded and performed impeccably.

It comes with a dust cover, a Jupiter 6 manual (not original), a Europa manual and a power lead. It's switched to accept UK voltage but can be switched to US..."

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UltraMini | Official Trailer UVI©

Published on May 30, 2013 UVIofficial·39 videos

❐ Buy Digital Synsations : http://bit.ly/ultra-mini
❐ UVI Official Website : http://www.uvi.net
❐ UVI Official Blog : http://blog.uvi.net

Music by Clem B
http://www.myspace.com/klemb

Two revered analog synths spanning a 4 decade legacy make sweet love with the UVI Engine™. The result: a 3-oscillator subtractive synth with devastating sonics and supreme ease-of-use. Experience the power of authentic overdrive, dual-filters and more in this ode to the arbiters of analog!

The Minimoog was made available to the public in 1971 and continued to be produced with very little change over the next 10 years. Considered the most popular synth ever by some, there's no doubt the instrument has led a prolific life, leaving a massive wake in its path -- changing perceptions and influencing synthesizer design to this day.

The Minimoog has a near-perfect balance of simplicity and sonic beauty.


HEART OF A HYBRID MONSTER : 2 ANALOG SOULS

One of our specialties is making hybrid instruments to get the best of both worlds.

We started with a beautiful 1971 Minimoog, sampling every waveform of every oscillator across every key -- and we did this for multiple overdrive settings. UltraMini seeps with a thick and immediate analog sound produced with the same 3-oscillator configuration as the Minimoog.

But we didn't stop there. In 2002 the Minimoog had a second coming in the form of the Voyager. This synth has its own wild character. Taking a 2011 Limited Edition Voyager XL, we performed the same comprehensive session, creating an identical sample footprint.

UltraMini includes two fully independent instruments with uniquely skinned GUIs, giving you the choice of vintage analog or crushing new school grit.


MAIN FEATURES

3-oscillator configuration, amplitude and filter key follow, unrestricted polyphony, mono retrigger, per-oscillator amplitude, stereo, color and drive control, a built in bit crusher, phaser, delay, limiter and our advanced algorithmic reverb -- SparkVerb, built-in phraser and arpeggiator assignable per-oscillator, step and LFO modulations and a huge library of expertly crafted presets.

———————————————————————————

*All trademarks are held by their respective owners. Moog is not affiliated with UVI or UVI products.

** iLok required

iKazoo: Game Controller, Music Composer, Fitness Monitoring, Stylus Pen, ...

Published on Mar 20, 2013 OGACOGadgets·2 videos

Update: this will support MIDI, OSC and Audiobus. I asked the makers and they replied:

"Yes, this is one of the main topics from the iKazoo. It will come with an APP, which contains a look-up table to link incoming iKazoo signals to MIDI or OSC.  We also plan to link the sound to Audiobus. iKazoo will be a very versatile MIDI controller, as any of its sensors will send data to the look-up table.
You will find XYZ2MIDI (Gyro) Tap2MIDI (Shocksensor) Touch2MIDI (Touchsensor for 2Octave chromatic or any-scale keyboard).  Flute and Kazoo will create MIDI pitch, note and velocity signals; while any sensor can also change MIDI channels.  Also, the two RGB LEDs, once received from an IOS or Android camera will create Cam2MIDI values.  The look-up table will have a "SimpleLearn" function to allow users the link and combine iKazoo signal to almost any application (Music, Games, Fitness, Office etc.) Their settings can be saved in scripts and shared with other users."

What is iKazoo? "A wind instrument [and more] that adds a 'buzzing' timbral quality to your voice when you sing into it. The kazoo is a type of membranophone – a device which modifies the sound of a person's voice by way of a vibrating membrane. In this way anybody can produce any sound using just their voice.  By replacing the membrane with a piezo microphone the sound can be amplified and alternated. Tunes can be converted into numbers [midi]. These numbers can control electronic instruments on your Smartphone, Tablet, PC or Laptop. Making such an electric kazoo might be cool for awhile, but probably it would get boring pretty quickly. That is why,we introduce the iKazoo."

"iKazoo is extremely versatile with tons of amazing functions! The flute side is a breath synthesizer. That's why iKazoo looks like a flute from one side.

The complete surface is touch and shock sensitive, so you can tap on different positions with different intensity to get a super drum computer or beat box. Plus, if you hold iKazoo in your hand instead of between your lips, the built-in microphone can record and alter your voice, while the tunes you have created previously are automatically looped. This will give you an unbelievable performance.

A bi-directional bluetooth transceiver connects wirelessly with your smartphone or tablet.

The iKazoo's built-in Arduino platform is equipped with optical and motion sensors. This turns the iKazoo into an Optical Game Controller. So just move the iKazoo around and play your favorite games easily.

The two multicolour LEDs allow you to connect to any device that has a built-in camera, such as your Phone, Tablet, or a PC.

Just hold the iKazoo in front of the device, and our driver application will search and sync up! You will never have to use a touch screen again. Connect your device to your TV and you have a game console, a presenter or a chat assistant to bring fun into your video calls.

iKazoo's sensors monitor all your movements! Use it as a step counter or check the impact on your joints when you do workout! Even compose music while jogging."

Order your iKazoo today: http://www.indiegogo.com/projects/ikazoo

Subscribe and Share:

http://www.ogacogadgets.com/ikazoo/
http://www.facebook.com/pages/IKazoo/
https://twitter.com/OGACOGadgets
http://www.facebook.com/pages/OGACO-G...
http://vimeo.com/62335857

*The Most Versatile Entertainment Gadget Ever!
*Open Source Software
*A real social product which runs with your iphone, ipad, or your android device
*Please visit our website to learn more.

---------------------------------

iKazoo Applications
---------------------------------

Music

iKazoo
Electronic Flute
Touch & Tap Midi Controller
Karaoke
Microphone
Sequencer
Auto Looper
Effect Controller
Breath Synthesizer
Smart Plectrum for Guitar
Sound Pick-Up ("attach'n touch")

---------------------------------

Game

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Dyna Sample XPression Box

via Steve Sciulli of Life in Balance

"Trying out the DynaSample XPression synth with my EWI 4000s while the Moog Voyager and the EML 101 wait patiently for attention.
http://www.dynasample.com"

via Dyna Sample:

"*** features ***

- sample based "acoustic modeling synthesis"
- unique "TDB" (true dynamic behavior)
- unbeatable dynamic response due to TDB
- superb sample quality
- analogue modeling synthesizer
- analogue plus sample layers
- expressive dynamic voice control
- dynamic / breath vibrato for wind instrument players
- direct aftertouch vibrato for keyboards
- no keyswitches necessary
- 8 voices
- keysplit function
- up to 4 MIDI inputs (2x MIDI, 2x USB MIDI IN)
- direct input for EWI-USB (incl. editor) and USB keyboards
- program change with EWI-USB possible
- 3x stereo out & SPDIF
- impressive 6 channel chord mapper
- monophonic voice synth (pitch to synth)
- stereo audioplayback engine (wav, aiff, mp3)
- external remote control unit
- inputs for 2 pedals & 6 foot switches
- (contact) mic input
- full midi control mapping
- VSTi mix editor for integration in DAWs
- 10 user preset banks
- many optimized factory preset banks
- updates via internet
- external USB storage and backups
- playable with all midi instruments in the studio and on stage"

BUGBRAND BOARDWEEVIL

via this auction
"BugBrand BoardWeevil. A portable, battery powered synth/noise machine unlike anything else.. Control is through dials, light sensors and touch-pads which allow for live circuit re-routing. This thing is capable of a massive range of crazy noises from clicky hi frequency electronica down to gut churning basses.

These things are handmade in small batches and tend not to be repeated - this version sold out over a year ago..

Manufacturers spec below:
Within the BoardWeevil are three oscillators and two (quasi)ringmods. Like previous Weevils, each oscillator has a wide-ranging Pitch Dial plus a Range Switch for selection of low-freq clickety or audio-rate drone tones.
Oscs 2 & 3 can be Syncronized to Osc1 with individual switches. The effect is most audible at audio rates where you get wonderful harmonic tones - Osc1 sets the base pitch and then the rates of Osc2 / 3 set the harmonic overtones.
Osc1 also has an LDR Light Sensor that can be switched in to affect the pitch - the more light falls on the sensor, the faster things run.
Osc1 and Osc2 are combined through the first ringmod (RM1) and then the output of this is combined with Osc3 in RM2. The Balance control is used to crossfade between the two ringmod sections.
Bend Features - it is these extras that bring the Weevil to life! Turning the Starve Dial strangles the power supply to the Osc/RM section sending things into areas where the oscillators fight between each other in chaotic ways. In a similar setup to Osc1, there is another switchable light sensor to control the power starvation.
The Stable/Instable mode switch provides some smoothing to operation - in Stable mode the Starvation appears something like an overall pitch-range-shift, while the Instable mode results in far great levels of cross-modulationary-fighting.
Fourteen Body Contact points hook you straight into the circuit - touching of different combinations allows signals to flow in unexpected manners. This becomes an extremely reactive and interesting means of control.
Output Section - a simple treble-cut Tone Control provides some signal shaping before the final Output Level master volume control.
1/4" Jack // Mini-Amp - the Weevil output is on a standard 1/4" mono jack socket or, if no plug is inserted, the sound passes to a mini amp and speaker for go-anywhere oscillation noises."

NAMM: Behringer iSTUDIO iPad Dock

"Professional iPAD Docking Station with Audio, Video and Midi Connectivity
Universal Docking Station for APPLE iPAD and iPAD2
Connect your microphones, instruments and audio sources to virtually any audio/MIDI app with the iSTUDIO
Core Audio/MIDI compatible for use with any iOS App
Versatile I/O functionality with adjustable headphone output and direct monitoring control
Separate Video output for connecting your iPAD to TVs and projectors
Standard MIDI I/O plus USB-to-host connectors for ultimate MIDI connectivity
iPAD powering and battery charging via the iSTUDIO dock
Ergonomic design layout – all control elements on top panel with headphone connector on front
Slide-in access for mating with iPAD dock connector (suitable for iPAD 1 & 2)
Locating holes for BEHRINGER P16-MB mounting bracket to attach iSTUDIO to a standard mic, music or drum stand (P16-MB not included)
Universal switch-mode power supply with country-specific wall socket adapter included
High-quality components and exceptionally rugged construction ensure long life
Conceived and designed by BEHRINGER Germany

New from BEHRINGER, the iSTUDIO iPad Docking Station is the perfect music production tool for both home studio and live recording. So much more than just a convenient way to recharge your iPad, iSTUDIO lets you create, produce and perform music using your favorite audio gear and musical instruments. iSTUDIO also includes two phantom-powered Mic/Line inputs (one switchable for Hi-Z inputs such as electric guitar or bass, no DI required), so you can use studio-grade condenser mics for stunningly professional results.

Flexible Functionality
iSTUDIO makes it easy to unleash your creative spirit, giving you access to iPad's powerful internal processor, touch-screen interface and vast array of available apps. With the iSTUDIO and your iPad, you can record, perform, or craft and create music in virtually any situation or location. A convenient onboard MIDI USB interface allows the transfer of MIDI data to and from your iPad for even more creative possibilities. iSTUDIO bridges the gap between your instruments and professional audio devices, creating a dynamically creative environment that will continue to grow as even more apps become available.

Vitally Versatile
The iSTUDIO features two combination XLR - 1/4" inputs, each with its own Gain control and switchable phantom power for use with condenser microphones. These inputs will accept analog signals from virtually any piece of audio gear including amps, mixers and external preamps. A guitar or electric bass can be connected directly to the iSTUDIO thanks to the built-in Hi-Z switch, enabling performers to play, perform and record straight into amplifier- and FX-modeling apps. We've also included a stereo Aux Input, allowing you to connect a wide range of line-level sources, even a turntable perfect for DJs or for archiving your precious vinyl collection.

Recording has Never Been Easier
In the old days when you wanted to record the band, you needed lots of gear and cables, or you had to spend gobs of money renting studio time. iSTUDIO takes all of the hassle out of recording, letting you concentrate on your performance and creativity. Just connect your mixer's outputs to iSTUDIO, open your favorite recording app and hit the button, nothing is easier. You can also use iSTUDIO's MIDI capability to control your external keyboards, samplers, drum machines and sound modules.

We've Got Connections
iStudio provides balanced stereo 1/4" TRS outputs for connecting to your studio monitors, PA systems and much more. Musicians can monitor tracks via dual independently controllable phones outputs, equipped with our adjustable direct monitoring controls for the ideal balance between incoming and playback signals. Two footswitch connectors are available for application-defined remote control of input selection and an expression pedal. If video is part of your production, iSTUDIO's RCA composite connector works with all standard video projectors, as well as most television and computer monitors.

Road-Ready and Rugged
When it comes to rugged reliability, BEHRINGER is an industry leader. Because your reputation, as well as ours depends on it, quality control is the first thing we build into each and every new product. As a result, the iSTUDIO is designed to withstand the rigors of the road and provide dependable performance for many years to come, and we back it with a comprehensive warranty program.

A+ Value
Value is defined as the point where price, features and dependability meet. Providing exceptional value to our customers is goal #1 at BEHRINGER. Compare us to the competition and we think you'll choose BEHRINGER."

via Huskypop Huskypopo on The MATRIXSYNTH Lounge

Synth in the House

flickr By Geoff Peters 604

"Concept still life of a Roland JX-305 synth and a Japanese stuffed animal bird."


YouTube Uploaded by geoffmobile on Oct 19, 2011

"http://birdsinthehouse.com

http://www.flickr.com/photos/gpeters/6259867318/in/set-72157627927971298

http://geoffmobile.com

A behind the scenes look at my recent photography session. Concept still life of a Roland JX-305 synth and a Japanese stuffed animal bird.

Photo details:

Concept photo for Intermediate Photography class at Langara College in Vancouver BC Canada, October 2011.

Taken with available light (no flash). Silver reflector was used to bounce light onto synthesizer. Tripod, long exposure, timer, and mirror lockup were used. Grey card used to set manual white balance and get initial exposure. Some exposure bracketing and in-camera-histogram/blinking highlights on camera were used to find the final exposures.

No post-processing beyond a simple RAW conversion to Jpeg was done; this is all done in-camera.
Used Adobe RGB Color Space.

Suggested music to go with this photo:"

George Harrison & His Moog Modular - Zapple & Electronic Sound

via the Beatle Photo Blog.

via Wikipedia: "Electronic Sound is George Harrison's second album. Released in May 1969, it was the second and final record released on the Beatles' short-lived Zapple Records label, a subsidiary of Apple Records. The album features two lengthy pieces performed on the Moog synthesizer. It was one of the first albums to make exclusive use of the instrument.

Zapple was intended as a creative outlet for avant-garde musical works. Not long after the release of this album The Zapple label was folded at the insistence of the Beatles' then-manager Allen Klein. Because of its experimental and highly non-commercial nature, Electronic Sound failed to chart in the United Kingdom, and barely made the United States Billboard 200 album chart, peaking at #191.

The album was issued on CD for the first time in late 1996. CD versions of the album have the recordings (but not the titles) in the wrong order. In recent years this error has led many listeners to confuse the two tracks.

The track on LP side one "Under The Mersey Wall" (25 minutes) begins with a series of gunshot-like sounds and appears to be a performance of a single Moog instrument, though often making use of tape delay and echo effects. Portions of white noise from this track are used throughout "I Remember Jeep," one of several jams included on Harrison's third solo album, All Things Must Pass, released in 1970.

The second LP side "No Time Or Space" (18 minutes) uses the sound of two Moog instruments playing at the same time, an effect made possible through the use of overdubbing.

The cover of Electronic Sound was painted by Harrison himself. The inside sleeve included minimal notes on the album and a quotation attributed to Arthur Wax: "There are a lot of people around, making a lot of noise; here's some more."

Synthesist Bernie Krause later pursued legal action against Harrison, claiming that "No Time Or Space" (side two of the original vinyl album; track one of the CD) was essentially a recording of him demonstrating the Moog III to Harrison (this is detailed in Krause's book Into a Wild Sanctuary). Krause also claimed that the demonstration was recorded without his knowledge or consent. Krause's name was originally credited on the front cover under Harrison's cover credit, but it was painted over at his insistence. Despite this, the words "Assisted by Bernie Krause" can still be read from under the silver ink on the original LP pressings.

The words "Produced by George Harrison" appear on front cover of the original LP pressings printed in light blue ink, but were recolored in dark blue and red on later re-issues.

Track listing

All pieces credited to George Harrison.

Side one

"Under the Mersey Wall" – 25:10
Recorded in Esher, England, in February 1969 with the assistance of Rupert and Jostick, the Siamese Twins

Side two

"No Time or Space" – 18:41
Recorded in California in November 1968 with the assistance of Bernie Krause

Note: This is how the titles appear on the original LP pressings. Later CD versions incorrectly switched the actual order of the recordings and the timings but failed to switch the titles."

This one in via Steve Sciulli of Life In Balance & Raised by Machines

Also see:
George Harrison's Electronic Sound
John Lennon playing the Moog at Abbey Road Studios

Life In Balance goes Tribal

YouTube Uploaded by bansuri on Sep 9, 2011

"Life In Balance goes tribal with EWI 4000S wind synthesizer and Quartz Crystal Singing Bowls, September 8, 2011 at the Monroeville Library, Pittsburgh, PA."

Life In Balance - Karmic Creation.

YouTube Uploaded by bansuri on Jul 21, 2011

"The Pittsburgh based Sound Healing Duo Life In Balance perform the original song Karmic Creation at the Upper Saint Clair Library - 2011. Steve Sciulli on Electronic Wind Instrument and Computer. Ami Sciulli on Quartz Crystal Singing Bowls and Percussion."

via Steve:
"On the EWI I'm using one of Matt Patchman's sounds. The Korg Radias is playing original patches and is triggering Ableton that is running Camel Audio Alchemy, Albino, drum loops and various synth sounds that I made."

Raised By Machines - Sputnik

Raised By Machines - Sputnik by RaisedBy Machines
via Steve Sciulli from Raised by Machines / Life In Balance:
"I play Moog Voyager, Alchemy and loops. Paul Ferraro on Guitar."

SoundCloud Description:
"Raised by Machines features Steven Sciulli "the father of Pittsburgh Electronic music" on synthesizers, computer and programming and Paul Ferraro on guitars.

Steven Sciulli's music is heard all over the world. He is in heavy rotation on radio shows and have been featured in the “Living Room Concert” series on the National Public Radio program “ECHOES.” His music has been aired on the syndicated radio show "Music From The Hearts of Space,” as well as many Internet radio stations like Astreaux World and Ambient US.

Steven Sciulli has composed themes and background music for the International Sculptural Society and dance groups, film/video, and over 20 meditation and healing CDs/DVDs. He has appeared on both local and national television/radio programming performing in hundreds of venues, some big in size others big in spirit. Steven built his first synthesizer at the age of 10 and started playing flute at 14. A founding member of the early 1980’s progressive group Carsickness (which Trouser Press compared to Van der Graaf Generator) and the Celtic rock band Ploughman’s Lunch.

Steven has played support shows for such diverse groups as: U2, Jon Serrie, Red Hot Chile Peppers, Echo and the Bunnymen, Rusted Root and Flaming Lips. He has composed and recorded music for over thirty major theater, dance, film and performance art groups.
He has organized numerous musical events though out the Western Pennsylvania region. His solo music has been featured in major Hollywood films and many nationally syndicated radio shows. He has over 8 CDs currently available, including 3 on major labels.

Paul Ferraro: Shifts the boundaries of the electric guitar. He has preformed with countless Pittsburgh musicians including recently as a member of the Ronda Zegarelli band. Paul uses his guitar as a color within a very imaginative paintbox."

Update: video

Raised By Machines @ Bloomfield Live

watch your volume levels on this one.
YouTube Uploaded by Cyberinga on Jul 15, 2011

"Raised by Machines playing at Bloomfield Live July 14, 2011"

"The video was captured with a iPhone so its a bit distorted. We rocked the block that evening and made this into a summer full moon street party.
Steve Sciulli: Korg Radias, Camel Audio Alchemy, EWI.
Paul Ferraro: Guitar."

Pittsburgh RaisedByMachines: Little Soundcloud

"A sparkling moog, Radias, and M3 song by Raisedby Machines. Moving patterns and textures creating a light moving and sound healing song."

"About Raisedby Machines
A true Story.
In the shadow of Sputnik, brought forth into 1g, weighing slightly more that 1kg, I arrived with zero chance of survival.
Immediately after receiving “last rites,” I was delivered to an isolette which provided breathing and temperature regulation. The life-sustaining pseudowomb provided my basic needs but for the next eighteen months, I was deprived of human touch as it was a commonly held belief that biologic contact would result in the transfer of disease.

Minimally held by glove-wearing staff, viewed over masks through tempered glass, the constant vibration of life-giving systems coursed over and through me…attenuating threats of an outside world and providing rhythm and breadth to my being.

'All watched over by machines of loving grace.' --Richard Brautigan"

Raisedby Machines is also Life in Balance

TranZen Music 2 - Open Labs with Omnisphere

YouTube via Neuron7777777 | October 06, 2010 |

"Synth Space Music a late night with William McNeely in the TranZen studio - Steve Sciulli of Life In Balance filming after a concert in the Crystal Center. http://www.TranZenmusic.com"

The TranZen Music Studio

Waldorf Q -Synthesizer

via this auction
"The Waldorf Q is a 16 part multi timbral virtual analogue synthesizer with 16 voices, expandable to a total of 32 voices. In multi mode, up to 4 parts keep their 2 high quality effects, giving a total of 8 effect processors. Each voice offers 3 LFOs, 3 oscillators with all classic shapes plus new algorithms, 2 filters with a sophisticated routing method and all filter types that you expect from a virtual analog synthesizer.

Furthermore, the Q offers unique Comb filter types in two flavours.
This enables the Q not only to create polyphonic Chorus or Flanger effects but previously unheard athmos or pluck sounds with great life. To top things off, the Waldorf Q has a very powerful arpeggiator and an even more powerful step sequencer. And with 58 endless rotaries, the Waldorf Q easily doubles the number of controls of other synths.

General Features
* 16 voices, expandable to 32 voices
* 16 part multi timbral
* 300 single programs
* 100 multi programs
* 100 step sequencer patterns
* 20 drum maps
* card slot for optional RAM card
* 58 endless dials
* 39 buttons for editing
* 2 x 20 character display
* 5 octave keyboard with aftertouch
* 1 Pitch Bend Wheel, 1 Modulation Wheel
* 2 Control Buttons
* 6 analog outputs (3 stereo outs)
* 2 analog inputs (1 stereo in)
* 1 coax S/PDIF output (44.1kHz)
* MIDI In/Out/Thru
* 2 Switch Inputs (e.g. Sustain Pedal, Gate In etc.)
* 2 CV Inputs (e.g. Foot Pedal, external controller etc.)
* built-in universal voltage power supply
* Dimensions: Width 995mm, Height 135mm, Depth 360mm
* classic blue

Per Voice:
* up to 5 Oscillators per voice
o Pulse with Pulse Width Modulation
o Sawtooth
o Triangle
o Sine
o 2 wavetables with 128 waves each plus Sub Oscillator per Alt Wave
* FM and Oscillator sync
* Noise generator
* Ring Modulator
* Mixer with Balance, each signal source (oscillator, noise, ringmod, external audio material) can be balanced individually between filter 1 and filter 2
* 2 Filters, different types, all including FM and distortion
o Low Pass (12dB/24dB)
o legendary PPG filter
o Band Pass (12dB/24dB)
o High Pass (12dB/24dB)
o Notch (12dB/24dB)
o Comb Filter (positive/negative feedback)
* Modulation Matrix with 16 slots, freely routable
* Pre-routed Modulation destinations, sources selectable
* modulation update frequency in audio range to allow the oscillators to be used as modulation sources
* 4 Modifiers
* Arpeggiator with user pattern, including accents, timing information, swing, glide, chords and more
* Step Sequencer with 32 steps, polyphonic, different controller values per step
* 3 LFOs up to audio range (> 5000 Hz)
* 4 envelopes, enhanced ADSR configuration with loop and one shot function, bipolar
* Poly, Mono, Dual, Unisono modes
* HMT for realtime tuning
* 2 individual high-quality effects per sound
* Effect Types:
o Reverb
o 2 x Surround Delay
o Tap Delay
o Chorus
o Flanger
o Phaser
o Distortion
o Delay
o 5 FX
o Vocoder with 25 bands
* and lots lots more..."