[You can find additional demos by Starsky Carr, BoBeats, and Molten Music Technology further below.]
Pittsburgh Modular Lifeforms SV-2 Lifeforms SV-2 from Pittsburgh Modular is a duophonic analog semi-modular keyboard synthesizer that honors classic East Coast subtractive architecture while packing a punch of flavorful twists afforded by modern technology. A full-blown revamp of the SV-1, it features updates to nearly every aspect of the instrument: new oscillator core, classic PGH filters updated with new character modes and overdrive stages, new spring reverb, new response curves and range modes on the ADSR envelopes, a custom 37-key keyboard with pitch-bend and mod wheels, and a redesigned interface with eighty-four patch points along the top. Moreover, a 24hp Eurorack expansion bay with three power headers sits alongside them, so external modules of your choosing can be dropped into the signal path at any point.
Tubbutec SH-1oh1 Editor for Roland SH-101 | Ableton Live Controller video upload by Studiomood
Studiomood has released SH-1oh1 Control, a Max for Live editor and MIDI controller for the Tubbutec SH-1oh1 upgrade installed in a Roland SH-101.
At the heart of the device is the Mood Engine, a 24-preset system designed for turning one sound into a whole collection of related variations. Inspired by the fast sound-variation workflow associated with the legendary AFX Mode, it encourages you to create a sound, copy it to the next preset, change a few parameters and keep moving.
Instead of treating presets as isolated patches, the Mood Engine makes them feel like different states of the same sound. Start with a bass sequence, copy it, open the filter, change the envelope, add an accent or push the extra LFO into filter FM territory. Within minutes, you can build a complete bank of connected variations and switch between them from Ableton Live or an external MIDI controller.
The video demonstrates exactly this Mood Engine workflow in action, moving through a series of connected SH-1oh1 sound variations and showing how a single starting point can evolve from preset to preset:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-w1x0MWApas
This makes the modified SH-101 especially interesting for live performance, evolving sequences and fast studio experimentation. Presets can be selected with the arrow buttons, Random can generate an unexpected starting point, and Reset clears the current preset when you want to begin again.
Behind the Mood Engine is a complete software editor for all MIDI-controllable SH-1oh1 parameters. Cutoff, envelope amount, the additional filter ADSR, filter and volume accents, accent decay and the extra filter LFO are all available directly inside Ableton Live. The LFO offers coarse and fine rate control, covering everything from slow movement to extreme filter FM sounds.
Velocity can be mapped to 9 different targets: None, Cutoff, Volume Accent, Filter Accent, Accent Switch, Attack, Decay, Sustain and Release.
Clock sources for the Arpeggiator/Sequencer and Random LFO can be selected from internal LFO, external trigger input, MIDI clock and MIDI note. The corresponding clock dividers are also available directly from the Max for Live device.
Settings are stored with the Ableton Live project. When returning to a session, Send All transmits the current parameter values back to the modified SH-101, bringing the hardware and software back together without having to recreate the sound by hand.
SH-1oh1 Control turns the expanded architecture of the Tubbutec modification into a hands-on Ableton instrument, with the Mood Engine opening up a fast and playful way to explore how far a Roland SH-101 sound can be pushed.
Requirements Roland SH-101 with the Tubbutec SH-1oh1 hardware upgrade Ableton Live with Max for Live MIDI interface SH-1oh1 Control is available from Studiomood for €19.95 including VAT.
"A walkthrough of the shared slot sequencer system added to all Unusable Engineering effects in version 1.3.0.
Depending on the plugin, the sequencer has four or eight slots. Each slot stores a different set of effect parameters, and the plugin can step or slew between those settings manually, using an internal clock, or in sync with the host.
This video covers:
editing and selecting slots
manual movement between settings
internal and host-clock stepping
Slew in free and clocked modes
copying and pasting slots
randomization
enabling and disabling slots
differences between individual plugins
and a bit of the philosophy behind it"
"Curves & Membranes has also gained a new oscillator mode called Node Mode.
The normal oscillator uses Bézier handles to shape its single-cycle waveform. In Node Mode those handles are replaced by vector points, which changes how the synth sounds and allows much deeper wave folding.
It gives the synth a noticeably more modern and aggressive side while still using the same one-oscillator architecture.
Curves & Membranes also got a new Vel->Radius option, where incoming velocity can multiply the radius of its orbital modulators by up to 5x. That makes harder notes introduce more movement rather than just changing level or filter response.
There is also now a preset browser across the full lineup, along with some starting-point presets, version checking and a few smaller workflow and stability improvements.
The updates are free for existing owners and available through the account page:
https://www.unusable.net/account/
The two freebies (Binaural Modulator and Cavitation Fractures) have also gotten updated with slot-sequencer, preset-system and some bug fixes.
Product pages and press images are here: https://www.unusable.net/ https://www.unusable.net/press/
"In this video, I'm using it live to create my sounds.
Try Oktopus Synthesizer FOR FREE: https://tatreal.pro/oktopus/#downloads
Check the manual page at https://tatreal.pro/oktopus/user-manual/
Oktopus is a powerful, deep synthesizer and production environment built from the ground up for advanced sound design, live performance, and music creation on Windows/Mac/iOS.
Features:
8-block synth architecture for layered and evolving sounds
MPE and MIDI input support
Sample loading, slicing, and playback tools
Built-in recording and sample export workflow
Per-block arpeggiator and sequencing controls
LFOs, modulation routing, and performance macros
Factory presets and factory samples included
Flexible effects chain with EQ, distortion, bitcrusher, compressor, phaser, flanger, chorus, filter, delay, and reverb
Touch-friendly interface for iPhone and iPad music creation"
"@VenusTheory is one of the lucky people to have their hands on the @genkiinstruments Genki Instruments Katla, the Icelandic volcanic synthesizer priced around $6,000 (yes you did read that right).
As well as parts hewn out of the Icelandic Katla volcano, hence the name - it has five voices with a paraphonic architecture, individual level, waveform and octave controls for each oscillator.
The resonant filter has low pass and band pass modes, self-oscillation and a wave folder. Modulation has some unusual routings, with a 'volcano' (of course) LFO shape and a Skrida control that randomizes envelopes and levels per note.
As well as user presets it has a system which recalls patches per section, effects include reverb, analog drive and tape-style detuning, and recent firmware adds MPE.
We explore it together - and if you want to get a sense of what it can do - we have a set of Custom Decent Samples from Venus Theory for our own Decent Sampler UI available for YouTube Members and Patreon Supporters
"The Kawai K1m is a 1988 digital synth module with no resonant filters and no built-in effects, but it still has a distinctive late-80s character that makes it much more interesting than the spec sheet suggests.
In this video I take a first look at my Kawai K1m, explore the four-source sound architecture, PCM samples, additive-style wave building, joystick control, factory presets, multi mode and external effects, then try building a new patch from scratch.
Chapters: 00:00 Why the Kawai K1m is interesting 00:24 K1m overview and why I bought it 01:38 Dry sound and synth architecture 02:28 Four-source patches and muting parts 03:20 Waves, PCM samples and additive-style synthesis 05:10 Drum samples and looped waveforms 06:55 Programming controls, envelopes and joystick 07:59 Polyphony and the gritty K1m character 08:56 Factory sounds and D-50-style bells 09:59 Vocal sounds, effects and Miami Vice references 12:56 Editing patches with the software editor 14:10 Multi mode and layered performances 15:02 Building a new K1m patch 17:57 Is the Kawai K1m worth buying today? 19:08 What should I do next with the K1m?"
"This multifaceted instument is not for the faint of heart! With 8 voices and digital architecture, you have plenty of different options to play around with. There's a scratch under the hood as pictured, but otherwise this synth is in very good cosmetic shape. It is serial number 3 !!! These are very rare and this is a early one. Only 120 units made. Fully analog signal path. 4 oscillators and 5(!) filters per voice. 8 voices."
"Oktopus is a powerful, deep synthesizer and production environment built from the ground up for advanced sound design, live performance, and music creation on Windows/Mac/iOS.
Features:
8-block synth architecture for layered and evolving sounds
MPE and MIDI input support
AUv3 instrument support for compatible hosts
Sample loading, slicing, and playback tools
Built-in recording and sample export workflow
Per-block arpeggiator and sequencing controls
LFOs, modulation routing, and performance macros
Factory presets and factory samples included
Flexible effects chain with EQ, distortion, bitcrusher, compressor, phaser, flanger, chorus, filter, delay, and reverb
Touch-friendly interface for iPhone and iPad music creation
Oktopus is made for producers, composers, and experimental musicians who want a powerful synth environment that can move from quick ideas to detailed sound design."
"Kepra is a rhythm instrument developed through detailed analysis of an original Japanese vintage programmable rhythm machine.
Rather than relying on sampled sounds, Kepra recreates each instrument by studying the original analog circuits, measuring waveforms, analyzing spectral content, and reproducing their behavior in software.
Developing Kepra felt less like sampling a drum machine and more like studying an archaeological artifact.
Every instrument was investigated through circuit analysis, waveform measurements, timing analysis, and spectral comparison to better understand how the original hardware produced its sound.
Rather than reproducing recordings, Kepra attempts to reconstruct the behavior behind them.
The Missing Instrument
One voice in Kepra did not exist on the original hardware.
The Shaker was designed as an 'imaginary expansion'—a voice inspired by the architecture and character of the original instrument.
Instead of adding a modern sample-based shaker, it was developed by asking a simple question:
'If the original designers had decided to include a shaker, how might they have built it using the same technology?'
The result is not a historical reproduction, but a speculative reconstruction that aims to remain faithful to the design philosophy of the original machine.
Not an Emulator
Kepra is not intended to be a museum piece.
It is a modern rhythm instrument built from careful hardware analysis, extending the ideas of a classic Japanese drum machine into new creative territory."
40 new presets for the 1010music Nanobox Fireball synthesizer, built on its powerful waveform architecture, deliver rich and evolving sounds.
'Surfaces' is tailored for ambient, cinematic, electronic, and experimental music production. Whether you're sculpting immersive soundscapes or adding subtle movement to your compositions, these sounds bring depth and emotional weight to your work.
Ready to use: All sounds are presented as demo versions (without adding external effects or post-processing to the demo tracks) with 1 Synth Preset, allowing users to evaluate their potential in the Nanobox Fireball effects section.
"Machinedrum: Precision in Sound Design https://akihikomatsumoto.sellfy.store...
Explore the unique sonic signature of the Elektron Machinedrum through a carefully curated sample pack. Every drum hit and loop is sourced exclusively from the original hardware, capturing the technical essence that made this digital instrument a cornerstone for experimental, industrial, IDM, and electronic music.
Authentic Digital Character
The sounds reflect the early 2000s digital drum architecture, including its DA converters and computational synthesis methods. The result is a set of tones that are sharp, precise, and strikingly different from anything current software can replicate. Each sample retains the mechanical clarity and algorithmic complexity that define the Machinedrum experience.
Crafted for the Curious Creator
Even if the Elektron Machinedrum is new to your workflow, the textures reveal the innovation of its early designers. Founded with a focus on algorithmic sound shaping and sonic exploration, Elektron engineered a platform where every parameter contributes to its distinctive audio fingerprint. This sample pack allows creators to incorporate that unique character directly into their productions.
Continuous Expansion
All files are delivered through Sellfy and automatically updated for existing users. New material is added over time, giving you access to an expanding library of sonic possibilities. Whether layering industrial beats or designing intricate IDM patterns, this collection provides a foundation that combines historical precision with modern flexibility."
"This was the flagship synth way back when, with beautiful pianos, strings, powerful sequencing, sampling and in a very nice blue tint, however it weighs a lot. Used on countless albums thoughout the 90's and early 2000's.
The Kurzweil K2600XS is an 88-key professional music workstation and sampling synthesizer featuring Variable Architecture Synthesis Technology (VAST), built-in sampling hardware, and onboard KDFX digital effects
Key Specifications
Keyboard: 88-note fully weighted action with velocity and aftertouch.
Polyphony: 48 voices, 4 oscillators per voice.
Sound & Sample Memory: 12MB base ROM (expandable to 44MB via four internal slots) plus the SMP-2X advanced sampling option with digital/optical I/O.
"This clip shows some of the range of sounds the synth produces. The Architecture is natively stereo, so put your headphones on!
I've added patch recall and storage via SD card, and got the arpeggiator running, so some of the sounds in the clip are just the arpeggiator, and I then adjust gate length / release / frequency etc.
Got a couple of little bugs to work on, but I'm pretty pleased with how it's progressed to date! Hope you enjoy the sounds :)"
"Classic powerhouse of a poly-synth! The Yamaha CS60 shares the same architecture of the CS80 (including memory) which is why it's a fantastic synth to dial-in that big boy CS80 sound without the heavy price tag. This particular CS60 is in very good condition for its age. It comes with a Kenton midi kit installed by our in house technician. This synth came from a very meticuluous collector, making it pretty hard to beat.
More info on the CS60:
Featuring two oscillators, two envelopes, and two low-frequency oscillators. It also has a built-in chorus effect and a built-in arpeggiator. The CS-60 is capable of producing a wide range of sounds, from warm and mellow to bright and aggressive.
The CS60 is a 8 note polyphonic synthesizer w/ velocity, aftertouch and a ribbon controller which offers the player a really organic feel into the performance of the instrument. Other key real-time control facilities, such as the LFO/ring-modulator section really make the CS60 a great players instrument – it’s all about the performance with the big CS polys. The resonant qualities of the Yamaha CS series filter are unmatched by any other poly-synth so they sound unique."
"In this video, I'm demonstrating my new 'D-50 Collection' sound pack designed for the Korg Wavestate, Wavestate Native, and Wavestate Module. Inspired by the late 80s LA synthesis of the Roland D-50, these 60 performances and 170+ programs use the Wavestate's native samples and 4-layer architecture to recreate that distinctive, bright hybrid sound.
I’ll be walking through some of the classic recreations like Fantasia, Staccato Heaven, and Soundtrack, as well as original sounds built using the same D-50 concepts.
Pack Details:
60 Performances & 170+ Programs No external samples required (uses built-in Wavestate samples) Compatible with hardware and native versions
This collection documents a complete system built by Random Source, based on the architecture of the Serge Modular Synthesizer. It is not a stylistic imitation. It is a direct capture of a signal philosophy that has shaped experimental electronic music for decades.
Ultimate Sounds for Prophet 12 is a premium sound bank featuring 50 professionally programmed sounds for Sequential / Dave Smith Instruments Prophet 12 and Prophet 12 Desktop.
This collection is designed to expand the expressive and hybrid character of the Prophet 12, combining modern digital detail with analog-style warmth, depth and musical response.
Inside the sound bank you will find cinematic pads, evolving atmospheres, digital textures, analog-style leads, deep basses, brass sounds, arpeggiated patches, layered synth colors and ambient soundscapes ready for modern productions, live performances and cinematic compositions.
Using the Prophet 12 architecture, Ultimate Sounds takes advantage of its deep synthesis engine, modulation possibilities, envelopes, LFO movement, delay textures and performance-oriented programming to create a versatile collection of inspiring and playable sounds.
This is not simply a preset collection. It is a focused sound design toolkit for musicians, producers and composers looking for expressive Prophet 12 sounds with a modern hybrid identity.
“Planet K2 “combines the classic Kurzweil K2000 synthesizer with the astronomical term Planet K2 (e.g., exoplanet K2-18b).1.
Kurzweil K2000 Synthesizer: An iconic digital workstation released in the 1990s that set new standards in the music industry.
VAST Architecture: The synthesizer's key feature is its proprietary Variable Architecture Synthesis Technology. It allowed musicians to "assemble" their own synthesis algorithms from dozens of oscillator types, resonant filters, distortion, and modulators within a powerful engine.
Sound Palette: Initially, the K2000 was renowned for its realistic piano, strings, brass, and complex, evolving pads.
Series Evolution: Today, Kurzweil continues to develop this line with the advanced K20 and K2061 series workstations.
A new update for your old friend Kurzweil K2x "Planet K2" is the 64 Program, 44 Keymap, 1192k Sample data.
The volume is 1252 kilobytes, which allows you to quickly load it into the instrument through the original floppy drive or its emulator, or from other media.
The download is available as KRZ file.
includes: synth pads, bass, texture, effects and synths
Fully compatible with K2000 series: rack, original, VP. Also with 2500/2600 Series
The demo tune was recorded in real time and does not contain external effects or any processing.
"The Relic by Shear Electronics is an ambitious, discrete analog polyphonic synthesizer that serves as a highly authentic tribute to the classic 1970s Oberheim OB-X. Developed over nearly a decade by Jacob Brashears, it boasts fully independent voice core processors and a deeply detailed analog signal path.
Architecture: 8-voice bi-timbral analog synthesizer.
Voice Cores: Features 8 fully independent voice processors, allowing each voice to be completely autonomous.
Oscillators & Filters: Each voice includes two SEM-topology oscillators and a continuously morphable state-variable filter.
Envelopes & Modulation: Includes 4 DAHDSR envelopes and 4 LFOs, utilizing digitally simulated classic envelope profiles."
[You can find additional demos by Starsky Carr, BoBeats, and Molten Music Technology further below.]
