The Sh*t Synth - Walkthrough video upload by CROW HILL XTRAS
Press release follows:
The Crow Hill Company turns to extensive and rare collection to turn out THE SH*T SYNTH as compendium of 48 circuit-, wave- and sample-bent instruments
EDINBURGH, UK: The Crow Hill Company is proud to turn to its own extensive and rare collection of hardware to turn out THE SH*T SYNTH — available as a compendium of 48 circuit-, wave- and sample-bent instruments inspired by some of the Edinburgh-based enterprise’s eclectic musical favourites (spanning the likes of Aphex Twin, Boards Of Canada, Joe Maus, Jon Brion, Laurie Spiegel, Radiohead, Throbbing Gristle, and Yazoo) to create something that they collectively ask: is it just shit or ‘the shit’? — as of April 7…
Whatever way anyone chooses to read into the titling of THE SH*T SYNTH as the latest entry into The Crow Hill’s ongoing ORIGINS series of sample-based virtual instrument plug-ins, one thing is for sure: it readily represents a broad selection of three categories of 16 workhorse instruments each, effectively wrapped up into a single plug-in designed to bring a cohesive approach to making music more edgy, lo-fi, retro, and — swimming against the technological tide of so-called progress — decidedly AI (Artificial Intelligence) slop-free. From pianos to strings, plucks, beeps, bass, and pads, the compendium that is THE SH*T SYNTH has been lovingly sculpted by the Edinburgh-based enterprise’s media composer and ‘samplist-in-residence’ Christian Henson to take the hassle out of making existing sounds less refined, catering to those looking for an entirely new bank of Mellotron-style sounds as well as synths that have been long forgotten — for good reason, too!
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"EML - Electrocomp 400 Sequencer section (s/n 468) 3 Row 16 step analogue sequencer. UNTESTED as it needs to connect to another EML product via the proprietary cable (Included).
VEMIA can collect and pack: 12GBP."
"Here we have SUMP PUMP from Robots Are Red (with circuit design from Setonix Synth). It's a 6HP stereo Eurorack noise gate that can also invert its behaviour into a compressor and with the 'floor' control it can also be an expander. We've 3 umbrella sections in the video with compression, noise gate and sidechain ducking techniques. Check out the patches and let us know which is your favourite. There's also an exclusive run down of the dirty bass patch on / divkid"
*TIMING INDEX // CHAPTERS*
00:00 Intro & previews
01:00 What are we doing & feature run down
PATCHES // COMPRESSION
03:17 Setting up compression on beats
06:05 Adding excitement to thick distorted bass with expansion
08:17 Reshaping chords with compression
PATCHES // NOISE GATE
10:00 From basic to creative noise gates
13:56 “Beat density” with floor control (thanks to RAR for the idea!)
PATCHES // DUCKING & SIDECHAIN
17:48 Big dumb bass ducking - good fun & how to set it up
19:34 Creatively duck ambient FX - I love this mixing/production trick
It's a noise gate, it's a noise suppressor, it's a compressor, it's an expander, it's stereo.
The Specs and Stats:
Width: 6hp - Attack and Release knob for envelope(s)
- Threshold for suppression/compression (0V - ~8V)
- Floor controls the amount of suppression/compression from -100dB to Unity and even up to +10dB for expanding the louds louder or make the quiets a bit louder.
- Level controls your overall output level
- Gate/Comp switch: When in "Gate" mode, whenever the input falls BELOW the threshold level, the envelope will engage towards the floor setting. When in "Comp" mode, the envelope will trigger when the input rises ABOVE the threshold setting.
-Stereo inputs and outputs. The envelope follower is assigned to the Left input, so the L input can also be used as a sidechain input for a mono signal (into In-R).
- Engage input. This is a gate input for manually engaging the envelope.
- Threshold CV input. This offsets from your knob position.
- Floor CV input. This also offsets from your knob position.
- Duck CV Input. This is an envelope follower input that applies and inverted envelope to the level of the signal. Send a simple pulse or trigger, an actual kick, an envelope, or anything else into this to duck your signal.
-Envelope Output. The envelope Output does not follow the "floor" settings and always outputs a full voltage envelope.
Special thanks to SetonixSynth and many others for really helping make this module a reality.
"Step into the iconic sound world of Depeche Mode and explore how their legendary tones were created.
In this demo, we recreate classic textures using the original E-mu Emulator II and the Emax SE vintage sampling synthesizer. From atmospheric pads to punchy, industrial sequences, deep bass sounds, this video showcases the authentic sound design techniques that defined an era.
The DM sound list:
0:06 The Things You Said
0:19 Get The Balance Right
0:30 Never Let Me Down Again (Aggro Mix)
0:41 Shake The Disease
0:52 Home
1:05 But Not Tonight
1:18 Halo
1:30 It`s Called A Heart
1:43 Stripped
1:58 People Are People
2:12 Behind The Wheel
2:26 Everything Counts
2:42 Waiting For The Night
2:56 Something To Do
3:08 In Your Room
3:21 A Question Of Time
3:33 Never Let Me Down Again
3:47 Black Celebration
4:03 Pipeline"
"What happens when a synthesizer completely breaks the rules? In this video, we explore the Genki KATLA — a truly unique polysynth inspired by Icelandic volcanoes, featuring a rotating voice architecture, hybrid signal path, and some of the most unpredictable sound design possibilities I’ve come across.
This isn’t your typical analog polysynth. Each of the five voices can run independently with different waveforms, octaves, and modulation — creating evolving textures, harmonic movement, and generative-style sounds that feel closer to modular synthesis than traditional keyboards.
🎛️ What makes the KATLA special? • Rotating voice polyphony (round robin-style synthesis) • Independent per-voice oscillators & tuning • Digital oscillators + analog filter signal path • Looping envelopes reaching audio-rate modulation • Phase distortion, wavefolding & multiple distortion types • Tape-style wow, flutter & pitch instability effects • Stereo voice movement & evolving spatial modulation • External inputs for processing other gear
From lush ambient pads to aggressive, evolving sequences — this synth can go places most instruments simply can’t. It’s not about recreating vintage sounds… it’s about discovering entirely new ones.
💸 At around €5000, this is definitely not a beginner synth — but for sound designers, and anyone looking for something truly different, it well worth a look."
Genki Katla Sound Design: Making sounds from scratch and exploring
video upload by MR TUNA Music
Chapters: 0:00 - Intro 0:16 - Init patch 0:44 - Filter sounds 1:26 - Raising 1 voice 1:43 - Creating a basic pluck sound 2:24 - Aftertouch controls 2:45 - Bring in a little reverb 2:56 - LFO to filter cutoff 3:16 - LFO to reverb mix 3:46 - Keyboard cutoff 4:00 - Osc 3 Square wave 4:23 - Sub oscillator 4:54 - KATLA parameters 5:01 - Rústir wavefolder 6:08 - Rökkur stereospreader 6:37 - Skriða envelope randomizer 7:27 - Aska random modulations 7:57 - Glóð tape stops and flutters 8:35 - Skjálfti ??? 9:14 - Kvika slow tape modulations 9:38 - dark pads 10:20 - Móða voice detuning 11:20 - Katla sounds with aftertouch 13:28 - Thanks for watching
"Hey guys! Very very excited to be presenting the Genki Katla to you all... I am truly in awe of the sound of this very unique and powerful instrument.
I thought the best way to get to know the synth is to start from scratch so in this video we'll go full hands-on with the Genki Katla, exploring (almost) every parameter and building sounds from an initialized patch.
From some raw drone layers and gritty textures to evolving pads, rhythmic sequences, and atmospheric beds, we will see just what this instrument can do, discover new sounds, and maybe make some friends along the way 🙏
If you're into sound design, unique synths, or just love discovering new instruments, this one is for you!
HUGE thanks to Genki for letting me a part of this with them and showing off this super cool synth.
No money was paid, no agreements were made... these are my real thoughts on this very premium synthesizer and I will be sharing lots more."
Press release follows:
Genki Instruments announces availability of Katla as Voice Rotating Polyphonic Synthesizer inspired by its natural namesake
REYKJAVIK, ICELAND: having twice blown European musical minds thanks to show-stealing showcases at SUPERBOOTH25, May 8-10, Berlin, Germany and Machina Bristronica 2025, September 27-28, Bristol, UK, before adventuring across the pond for a repeat performance at Buchla & Friends 2026, January 24-25, LA, CA, USA, Reykjavik-based instrument developer Genki Instruments is proud to announce availability of the eagerly-awaited Katla as a Voice Rotating Polyphonic Synthesizer inspired by Iceland’s largest subglacial volcano as its natural namesake — readily representing the company’s first foray into analogue synthesis, albeit one that uniquely utilises a set of wildcard parameters to infuse it with organic, unpredictable behaviour as an instrument that is worthy of that legacy, excelling at generating rich, evolving, multi-layered textures, where each note stirs, swells, and erupts in its own distinct way — as of March 31…
Clearly Katla’s inspiration runs through its ‘volcanic’ veins. After all, it is framed by side panels and knobs forged from authentic Icelandic lava, giving each instrument a tangible connection to the volcanic forces that inspired it. That this synth should surely roar is a given. Genki Instruments inevitably chose, therefore, to kit Katla out with four independent distortion destinations, the most unruly of which is a stereo CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) Drive effect — a characterful saturation stage, pushing tones from warm and rounded to fractured and snarling.
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Pic of the inside below.
"This auction is for an original 1971 Mk1 EMS Synthi A synthesiser, serial number 4118, in its Spartanite case. The case has a few marks and scratches as befitting a 55 year old instrument, but no chips or breaks. The latches, although showing some corrosion, work perfectly.
The Synthi front panel is one of the cleanest we’ve seen, being almost immaculate with virtually no panel marks and, unusually, no writing or marking absent or worn from the screen printing. In addition this example comes with the early chrome mirror finish knobs.
The internals are extremely clean and original with no modifications (see photo#4 now under the wrong thumbnail) and the unit has the genuine GE PA234 audio amplifier devices for the outputs and reverb.
The unit has been fully tested by one of the three or four people in the world who can call themselves EMS experts. It has been aligned and found to be working perfectly, and consequently given the original condition of the unit, no capacitors have been replaced. The original ones are working fine and show no signs of leakage or decay. However while the existing pots are electrically good with no scratchiness, some are a mechanically stiffer than current production models and the buyer might wish to have these replaced. This can be done at additional cost either here in the UK by EMS experts Lucid or by the buyer’s own engineer.
The Synthi comes with a full set of 20 patch pins and a new UK 240VAC mains lead (not shown). (Observant viewers may notice the absence of the usual Synthi A plastic name plate which usually adorns the outer case. This isn’t missing, but was simply never fitted as there are no holes for it, perhaps because of the early serial number. In addition the rear case is attached by four factory fitted screws and bushings, rather than the more usual arrangement of three)."
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"Superb, rare E-mu 45 module dual cabinet system with the elaborate and powerful keyboard. The main power supply has stopped working - so unable to test modules. The S&H module is known to be a non working module. Generally good physical condition, so a really great project. At a rough estimate, it might cost 2000GBP to get everything 100%. Very well worth it indeed.
Please check the photos for the modules included.
Chapters:
00:00 Intro
03:37 News roundup
07:13 Favourite sequencers
23:21 Under-the-radar modules
32:32 Current trends in Eurorack
"In this episode, Tom and Luke discuss their favourite sequencers, share some favourite under-the-radar brands and modules, and chat about some of the current trends in Eurorack, from multi-algorithmic digital powerhouses to manufacturer-specific ecosystems.
Thanks to everyone who commented on episode one! You can get in touch with questions, feedback and suggestions via signalflow@signalsounds.com
"Rings by Mutable Instruments is one of the few modules on my 'Never Sell' list. It will always be fun, always sound good, and always have new sounds to discover, and that is the sign of a very well designed module. Join me for 20 minutes of sound and discovery!
Please consider supporting my channel by checking out my patreon: / theunperson
#rings #mutableinstruments #eurorack
0:00 - Intro
1:35 - Overview
3:16 - Drone
7:23 - FM Synthesis!
11:51 - External Audio In
15:02 - Hidden Mode Overview
16:48 - Final Jam!"
"#alisa #1377 #alisa1377 #synth #demo
Rare USSR synthesizer restored by Alex Taber!
It was made in USSR in 1985 at Luberetskiy Military Radioplant 'Rodina' near Moscow.
ALISA synthesizers were made especially for experimental electronic music, creating of sound effects in soviet cinema and scientific acoustic researches.
This unique instrument has warm, aggressive and absolutely original analog sound!
The synthesizer has 1 OSC with 4 wave forms, ADSR , filter, various modulations, vibrato and portamento effects.
OSCILLATOR: tune; octave +1/+2; portamento; wave forms: triangle, saw, square, odd harmonics; frequency modulation (for all 4 waveforms); impulse-width modulation (for square wave form) with impulse width and depth controls; harmonics (for odd harmonics wave form). You can use individual OSC waveforms (triangle, saw, square, odd harmonics) or mix them together to get unique sounds!
FILTER: cutoff, resonance, vibrato (filter modulation), ADSR, switch between filter control- keyboard or contour OSC (ADSR). The synths filter due to it`s original architecture can be used as additional oscillator when filter`s resonance knob in self-oscillaltion position and it sounds really weird and interesting!
AMPLIFIER: ADSR, main volume, on/off synthesizer."
"A sequencer patch using PRECISION VOLTAGES and CHANCE DELAY modules for probability-based transposing of steps. Also featuring sound from a single VCO and the SONIC XV filter & wave folder.
Video & Performance by @DreamsOfWires
PATCH BREAKDOWN: A Doepfer Mini Sequencer is playing a simple 5-step sequence. The clock is from the DUAL LFO + VCA module, which is also triggering an DH-ADSR envelope generator (connected to audio VCA), and the SAMPLE HOLD & SLEW module.
Because the sequencer gates aren't being used to trigger the envelope generator, I can use them elsewhere, and on the Mini Sequencer they can be turned off per step, so instead I am sending these gates to the PRECISION VOLTAGES (Gate A). This means that whenever a gate signal is received, Precision Voltages will activate, shifting the pitch of connected VCOs by the selected amount.
To add variety to this, I am first running the gates through the CHANCE DELAY, with which I can adjust the chance/probability of the gates being passed through to the Precision Voltages, or ignored. This means that the transposed notes will only randomly occur, based on the position of the 'Chance' pot, here at 50%.
Precision Voltages is dual channel (A & B), but I'm using the combined A + B output, so that any semitone or octave changes that I make to channel B will be combined with those on channel A, which is the only channel being switched on or off by the incoming gates. This means I can transpose the whole sequence by the same selected semitone and octave values (here plus or minus 5 semitones) and still have the selected sequencer notes randomly transposing by the same interval.
As for the sound - just a single triangle wave into the SONIC XV Diode Ladder Filter, manually adding the wave folder to create a much more interesting timbre, and with the clocked SAMPLE HOLD & SLEW module randomly modulating the filter frequency, via the DUAL LFO\s built-in VCA, which is slowly modulating the level of the Sample and Hold from strong to nothing.
Mixed on a @solidstatelogic BigSix with @vermonagear DSR-3 Dual/Stereo (real) Spring Reverb. Both cases powered by the Konstant Lab StrongPWR, with small case using a Polyend Anywhere USB PSU, powered by the USB output of the StrongPWR. Clear acrylic Eurorack case by CASA Modular, Japan."
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Interesting note about Apocalypse Now:
"Crumar/Steiner - EVI (s/n E1/00248) Electronic Valve Instrument analogue synth, designed by Nyle Steiner of Steiner-Parker fame. This one is manufactured by Crumar, who he started collaborating with in the late 70s. All working well and generally good condition. 220V with UK plug.
VEMIA note: the EVI was responsible for all of the solo melodies on the great soundtrack of Apocalypse Now, among many other major film credits. VEMIA can collect and pack: 12GBP."
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"Formanta - Polyvoks (s/n 0689251) The most famous Russian analogue synth. All working, although has not been used for a while, so the controls really need a clean, and maybe a calibration. One crack in the case on the back left edge. 220V (UK mains lead supplied - although not the original one). Adaptor included to convert DIN output socket to 1/4' jack.
VEMIA note: the slight damage is likely caused by the interesting design decision to put a plastic case round a heavy metal chassis and adding a lid so that the whole is nearly 20kg. Needs extra-special packing . VEMIA can collect and pack: 24GBP."
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"Octave Electronics - Cat SRM II (s/n G1162) - In average condition, but not fully working. The LFO, Noise, VCF and VCA seem to be working, but there is a fault with the keyboard CV/Gate. Tidy inside - just needs fixing. 240V version.
VEMIA can collect and pack: 18GBP"
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"Sequential Circuits - Prophet T8 (s/n 000467). 8 voice analogue poly. Not fully working. It does boot up and tune all oscillators, most functionality is working, but has a keying problem where not all voices are playing and one voice is stuck on. 240V version.
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"Korg PS3100 (s/n 805220) This rare and highly desirable vintage polysynth is in reasonable condition, but not fully functional. Powers up and does play to a degree, but there is a multiple oscillator sound that sounds all the time. Keyboard plays most notes, but some notes do not play. 240v version.
