Intellijel Swells - Multi-Model Reverb Module with Swell Generator

video upload by Intellijel

"Swells is a multi-model reverb module, with a built-in modulator we call the 'Swell Generator'.

Some feature highlights of Swells include:
Nine unique studio-grade reverb models
Fully stereo signal path
Eight reverb parameter sliders
Ebb & Flow - two per-model parameters
Swell Generator - aka envelope follower with four modes.
LO-FI with Min & Max setting
Freeze, Reverse and Burst FX
20HP Module"

Intellijel Swells | Four synth explorations

video upload by Jay Hosking

"Four mostly ambient pieces with Intellijel's new reverb and other hardware.

Fair warning: Intellijel sent me the Swells and Jellymix. Take that as you will. Considering how much other Intellijel stuff I use, and considering how much I'm a sucker for reverb, I was excited to try this one out.

00:00 - Omnichord ambient
03:49 - SubH Replay ambient
08:22 - S-4 OVUM ambient
12:35 - Hexdrums jam

Undoubtedly, we're living in a golden era of reverb hardware. I've got more reverb than one human needs, but I love it so much. One thing that means, though, is that I'm looking for reverb that does new things, that isn't just good but different and textural and interesting in and of itself.

In that respect I've been very happy with Swells, and am planning to use it a bunch after this. Swells can play it straight, but the combination of self-generated modulation and great colouration options means Swells can draw attention, add unique character, and fill a role more than simply adding space. I've particularly liked pairing it with Jellymix, using Swells as a send and then using varying amounts of wet/dry across multiple instruments, creating a shared reverb environment that feels pretty glued. It's a great combo.

So do you need another reverb? Probably not. You don't need anything in hardware, honestly. But if you're looking for a hardware reverb that makes you think differently about time-based effects, and if you're looking for a reverb that sounds good in new ways, I think Swells is worth checking out.

Thanks for listening.

https://jayhosking.bandcamp.com"

Stereo Filtered Big Boy Verb (Strymon BigSky MX + Vongon Paragraphs II)

video upload by Duskmos

"In this Signal Colors: Layers, I'm pairing up the Strymon BigSky MX and the Vongon Paragraphs II - a massively spacious reverb processed through an atmospheric panning stereo filter. These two heavy hitters are a powerful duo. Hang out with me while I pair them up with the Teenage Engineering OP-XY!"

Pirin V1 for Waldorf Protein by NatLife

video upload by NatLife Sounds

"Download Link: https://natlifesounds.com/product/pir...

[Since I'm not a professional keyboardist, forgive me for my poor performance]

Pirin V1 for Waldorf Protein is my new soundbank for this powerful little Microwave-based synthesizer. It features 40 complex presets & patches, most of which utilize multiple Layers for maximum sonic impact.

This bank is full of atmosphere:

11 full-fledged sequences created with the internal sequencer
10 deep pads that convey a mountainous atmosphere to your Protein
2 Arpeggios, 4 forest noise effects, 2 Lead sounds, 1 Pluck, and 10 diverse synth sounds, from piercing to Synthwave. Installation instruction includes."

Memories | Roland JX3P and Fractal Audio FM3 nostalgic instrumental

video upload by MIDERA

"So, I sold my JX3P, my amazing condition JX3P, because I had the System 8 and the Jupiter 6. Fast track to now, a friend sells me a beat up JX3P and I think "I'll test it out again..." And man what a synth. The System 8 really doesn't do it justice. I can't believe I kept the JP6 over the JX3P, which sounds far better than the JP6 or System 8. What a bummer. Now, just like the D-50, I sold a mint condition one, and ended up with a junker :/ Sigh... well, the Jupiter 6 is gone (couldn't be more glad to be honest), and I'm eyeing the System 8...

Fractal Audio FM3 used for FX.

#roland #fractalaudiofm3"

Announcement + UDO DMNO Demo

video upload by Hazel Mills

"Thanks UDO Audio for having me involved in this astounding instrument. Something to celebrate for women music in the world of electronic music.

The DMNO is possibly my favourite of their synths. Here I'm demo-ing some of the factory presets that I designed.

0:00 Announcement
01:30 - Dunking Bass
02:05 - Deception Pad
02:29 - Dusty Plain
02:56 - Primitive Pulses
03:23 - Oskar Broken Pad
04:18 - Vault Plunge
04:47 - One Magic Bell"

Genki Instruments Katla #2 | Winterdagen

video upload by Winterdagen

"Here's another patch on the gorgeous ‪@genkiinstruments‬ Katla synthesizer.

For this keys patch I made use of Katla's voice rotation, with one of 5 voices tuned an octave higher than the rest, resulting in unpredictable pitch jumps in the melody, which I love. I didn't make use of Katla's oscillators for this patch, in stead the sound is coming from the filter with the resonance fully up, which tracks pitch very nicely when tuned with the simple calibration mode of holding down the two filter mode knobs.

I'm a big fan of these singing filter sine waves, which always feel a tiny bit unstable which makes them sound magical. To top it off I'm modulating the panning of the voices, I blended in some of Katla's lovely noise for some warble and I added some of the amazing internal reverb, which reminds me a bit of my Vongon Ultrasheer. I love this sound so much and I've never heard any other synth make it quite like this!

You don't see me playing the keys in the video, but I played this patch for hours, instant inspiration really. This melody is came out of that improvisation.

Thank you for watching!

ps. sine waves generally don't translate all that well on phone/laptop speakers, so speakers/earbuds/headphones advised.

Katla is shipping as of this week, find more info at: https://genki.is/"

Roland M-DC1 Dance 1u rack module

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

via this eBay listing

"No AI here, this is a real human description in the language of English.

Think of drum loops, drones and leads from the 90s. This is an M-DC1 from Roland, which includes typical banks of patches, but also cool performance and drum modes. Many hip hop loops, trance type stuff. This is a rack module which essentially contains the dance roms that were also available for the JV series in the form of plug in cards. Except this is a standalone rack unit with a JV-esque sound engine.

The JV sound was ubiquitous in the 90s, and not to be underestimated, whether it be traditional piano/keyboard, bass, drums, or leads.

Pretty clean, even the rack ears are pretty clean, Home studio only, not dragged around. Used for supplementing tracks, and some of the drum loops were used as foundations for tracks.

you got your midi, your stereo outs etc.

midi'd it up to another roland keyboard and tested some of the performance loops, and individual patches. That worked for me."

CLICK FOR MORE »

An Ambient Exploration in Microsound in Two Parts with Morphagene & Mimeophon

video upload by Genshi Media Group

"::| TO HEAR THE FULL RANGE OF FREQUENCIES AND STEREO EFFECTS, A GOOD PAIR OF HEADPHONES IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED |::

An Ambient Exploration in Microsound in Two Parts with the ‪@MAKEN0ISEMUSIC‬ Morphagene & Mimeophon. Part one also includes the Make Noise QPAS. Both parts towards the end also include a pair of Radio Music modules (though in Part One the second Radio Music module wouldn't trigger). I will be releasing a 5 Track Album with more of these explorations within a week or two. Further details of this video:

You may be asking 'Why didn't he just use modulation on those parameters?' When I'm using a small setup with just two or three modules, I like to manually "play" the modules like an instrument; using my intuition to guide how I am going to evolve the sound. In my main, bigger system, I of course use all sorts of modulation for some of these things with modules like Batumi, Samara, Zadar and others, but I still always leave room to play the instrument manually.

I've been interested in Granular synthesis and Microsound ever since getting Curtis Roads' book 'Microsound' when it first came out in 2001, but even before that, I had been interested in Musique Concrète, with my first experience of that being when my father (who was a Radio DJ and Concert Promoter) brought home the just released Beatles 'White' album and hearing 'Revolution No. 9' for the first time. I was four years old, and it freaked me out! Part two of this video towards the end gets a little 'haunted' as well, inspired by that revolution of musique concrète!

#Morphagene #Mimeophon #musiqueconcrete"

hichord + m8.

video upload by hijaq.

"since the beginning of the year i’ve been slowly learning how to use the m8. it’s my new favorite little guy, but i still feel like i barely know what i’m doing. this is a really simple little song using the hichord as an external instrument with some touchscreen effects. there is no post-processing on this audio. still haven’t figured out how to make led screens look good on camera lol.

i have a few videos saved up so i can post weekly for the next little while. expect more m8 later, i’ll be back to traveling once it warms up so it’s coming with me ;3

all my music is free to use. liking the video or subscribing to the channel helps me make more stuff. thanks love u."

new hichord looper can make a whole song.

video upload by hijaq.

"hichord recently updated its looper to have six separate tracks and they asked me to try it out. i tried to get the camera as close as possible so you can read the screen. all this audio comes straight from the box with no plugins or effects."

TR1000 New Skin debut - New Project Premier

video upload by Teddy Rock Steady

A clearer view of the TR-808 skin for the TR-1000 featured in this previous post. This one was spotted and sent in via M Me.

From the video:

"sample chop preview, new project premiere track featuring the voice of one of the most influential and inspirational speakers of our time, Shahid Bolsen
Get TR1000 skinz https://synthskinz.com
Shout out to Synth Skinz"

EVA Maestro Oberheim Ring Modulator RM-1A Clone

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

This one was spotted and sent in via
M Me.

via this eBay listing

"We've received a used EVA/Maestro Oberheim Ring Modulator RM-1A Clone, which reproduces the sound of the Maestro Oberheim Ring Modulator RM-1A as faithfully as possible.

This is a highly specialized custom-made unit.

Created in response to requests from enthusiasts, this is the ultimate clone ring modulator designed to recreate John Lord's organ sound.

The layout of the input/output jacks, faders, and pin switches has been designed to closely match the original. Condition: B+: No issues for normal use"

CLICK FOR MORE »

iDance RM-808 Groovebox Controller for iPad

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.
video upload by idanceaudio idanceaudio

Somehow missed this one. Thanks goes to M Me for spotting the listing below and sending it in. A quick search brought up the video above.

via this eBay listing

Google translated from the listing in German:

"This is an extremely rare toy from 2023—one that, for some reason, seems to have been on the market for only a very short time—yet it is anything but a mere toy.

The controller pairs via Bluetooth with an app called X808. This app runs exclusively on iPhone or iPad. There is a stripped-down freeware version (featuring limited synth and effect parameters) and a full version available for 8 euros. Both versions provide access to a few acoustic kits as well as ALL THE ESSENTIAL ROLAND drum machines—specifically the 808, 909, 606, 707, 626, 727, CR78, and CR80. Furthermore, it includes a full-fledged bass synthesizer and *two* full-fledged Kaoss Pads!

I tested the device using only the freeware version, and even that alone is absolutely incredible.

Naturally, you can program beats, basslines, and even full songs; moreover, the controller features an extremely intuitive design—well, as one would expect, since it *is* designed for children.

Something seems to have gone wrong with the marketing, however, because a unit this powerful really shouldn't be classified as a 'toy' anymore.

The device is brand new and has been tested just once.

The internal batteries are charged via USB.

Incidentally, the user manual translates the term 'mixer' as 'stirring device.' Got it?"

w/ Original Box

CLICK FOR MORE »

Shakmat Ballista Blast | What This Module Can REALLY Do

video upload by Braintree56

"Shakmat Sent me the Ballista Blast to demo for you.

In my first video on the Shakmat Ballista Blast, I gave a brief overview and some first impressions...

But once you start digging into it, you realize this module goes way deeper than that.

In this video, I take a deeper dive into the Ballista Blast and explore what it can really do when you push it beyond a simple voice. From advanced modulation routing to the different synthesis engines, this module starts to feel less like a utility voice and more like a flexible sound design tool. I'm going to show you the whole thing!

• Assignable envelope routing to multiple destinations
• Built-in randomization for evolving patches
• Multiple Engines and Modes

All of these features can be combined in ways that go far beyond a typical 'starter voice.'

If you're building a compact case—or just want to get more out of a single module—this one has a lot to offer."

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/"

OKTAVISION - Discovering the Void

video upload by OktaVision

New video from supporting member OktaVision.

"Here's our new single Discovering the void, It's made with a DFAM and an Alpha Juno 2"

"Discovering the Void, a new track with a lyric video from Oktavision. In an era of immense activity but weakened meaning, the void should exist as a field of creation, not as a space that must be filled with stimuli."

Lyrics:

CLICK FOR MORE »

Torso Live Session #5: Ctrls

video upload by torso electronics

"Torso Electronics presents the fifth live session recorded at our office space in Copenhagen.

In this episode, Copenhagen-based artist Ctrls presents a live set built entirely around the S4, using the samples he created for the factory sound library.

Ctrls: “It's composed without any sequencing, only looping and modulation, which is a totally new way of working for me, but which the S4 makes really fun and engaging. The Ableton Push 3 and Intech midi controller act as a my mixer and finalizer, and I'm triggering and effecting some drones and fx sounds from its launch grid. It was a great experience and I'm happy I got to exercise a less clubby side to my music. Big thanks to the Torso team for the opportunity.”

About Ctrls
The Ctrls project was founded In 2012. From the first release the presence of a highly individual sonic style was apparent and his fast paced and futuristic techno based sound has now been well established with a stream of respected music on labels such as Token Records, Earwiggle, Micron Audio, Mechatronica and Key Vinyl. A lifelong devotee of electronic dance music, DJ’ing and live performance are central for the project. This has resulted in many involved sets at globally notable venues such as Tresor, Berghain, Khidi, Fabric, Kit Kat, Fold, Basement NY, and Club Drugstore as well a residency at Copenhagens purest electronic venue: Den Anden Side. The future holds a wider scope as electro, breakbeats, noise and audio visual components are folded into the distinctive Ctrls sound palette."

"A song for the sad ones" by gattobus (Frap Tools Magnolia)

video upload by gattobus

"The song can be downloaded here:



This song was born a few months ago while I was programming some patches for Magnolia. I'm not having a great time right now, but luckily, as sometimes happens, music has come to help me. This song carries hope and all my wishes for peace and serenity.

All synth sounds are from Frap Tools Magnolia.
Drums: Roland TR-8S with LinnDrum LM-1 samples
Mixed and mastered on Ableton Live 12."

Bad Gear - He tried his best to HATE IT

video upload by AudioPilz

[Funny side note: I just saw that episode of Myth Busters with the truck plowing through cars, just yesterday.]

"Welcome to Bad Gear, the show about the world’s most-hated audio tools. There are a few learnings to be taken from years of ploughing through music production gear like an 80s rock band shopping in a liquor store: don’t believe the hype, everything has been done before and never trust a stylish instrument sold with the promise to give you all you need in a compact form factor without compromising sound quality and usability.

Today we are going to talk about Dirtywave M8. This hardware tracker and mini DAW comes with more red flags than the average dating app experience like a cult-like following, a Game Boy-inspired workflow and believe me - I tried my best to hate it.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Waldorf Protein in the hands of a beginner makes "Bang!"

video upload by Nicolai

"I just bought the Waldorf Protein. They said it is their entry level, so I unboxed it, did a test drive, created some own patches and guess what: "Bang!" a tight techno track was born.

🎧 Original "Bang!" track (the one born from frustration): [below]


It is a lovely wavetable synth: portable (fits my setup perfectly), flexible and most importantly: accessible! Sure, there are menus and a shift button for deeper tweaks, but most of the time you just coast on the sound, dialing it in directly with the tons of hands-on knobs. How cool is that?

Watch the full video: unboxing, preset demos and evolution, honest critique, Nicolai patch building which lead to the 'Bang!' track."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Oberheim TEO 5 / Volca Bass / Circuit Tracks - Dawless Cinematic Electronica

video upload by Scott Nellé - Plague Society

"This is a dawless cinematic electronica track, sequenced on the Novation Circuit Tracks. It features the Oberheim TEO-5 as a pad and the Korg Volca Bass making a couple of bass sounds.

In addition to sequencing the whole track, the Circuit Tracks plays drums with samples from my collection and also a supplemental string lead and pluck. I really enjoy the Circuit. For such an affordable device it's really a powerful centerpiece for a dawless setup. It also handles effects for the Oberheim and Volca Bass on this track.

The Oberheim TEO-5, my newest and biggest synth, plays a pad here with a patch that I designed. The patch uses both oscillators and most of the waveforms, with plenty of modulation to give it some extra analog vibe. The patch is called "Just Swell" and I think it sounds pretty cool. This is a really fun synth to design sounds on. It's super straightforward and there are lots of modulation options. I'm looking forward to exploring it in more depth.

The Volca Bass is used for two sounds here. Initially it plays a very staccato bassline, and later I switch on the sustain an it plays more off a gliding line that almost verges into lead territory.

I sat with this track for a long time, adding more and more stuff until I decided it worked better as a more stripped back arrangement. All of the individual parts ended up really simple, but I hope they play off each other to create something interesting. Let me know what you think!"