These are my first "ten minutes" (okay, the video turned out a few minutes longer 😉) with the Modern Sounds Pluto semimodular synthesizer. 🎧Headphones recommended for the full sonic experience.
In this small setup Pluto is accompanied by three pedals, the Strymon El Capistan v1, the Chase Bliss/Goodhertz Lossy and the Eventide Space in ModEchoVerb algorithm, all in stereo. Pluto, this tiny little box, is such a fascinating and inspiring instrument. You can get a million and more of sounds out of it. I love how the filter of Lossy changes the overall mood of the sounds.
All sounds and video footage by The Pedalboard Orchestra.
(Disclaimer: This is a non sponsored video. All equipment is self-purchased.)
"Truchets is an alternative firmware for Marbles, written by Dylan B. It leaves the original Marbles intact, but adds a Grids inspired mode - which adds tons of features compared to the original Grids. It's a) amazing and b) brilliant so if you often use Marbles as your primary source of randomness, you're going to love this.
We say... A pre-owned Elektron Octatrack MK2 in very good condition. It appears to have been originally sold as a b-stock unit. It has all original packaging and accessories.
Manufacturer's description With the Octatrack MKII, discovering the perfect sample is only the beginning. Twist it, distort it, and carve it into something that is truly yours. Dynamic in name and nature: this is the ultimate sampler for recording sessions, creative kick-starts, and improvisational performances. A stereo sampler, looper, arranger, mixing and effects hub, workstation, performance instrument: you name it. Its power scales and evolves with you during your musical journey.
The Octatrack MKII redefines how you transform your sounds, as well as how you interact and play with them. It is a stereo sampler, processor, and live looper with a powerful sequencer and workstation workflow on top. Choose between several custom machines – static, flex, thru, neighbor, pickup – to suit your sample recording, manipulation, and effects processing needs for each of the eight tracks.
Click the auction link on top when you get there for additional listings.
"Great and powerfull analog synth from 70's This one is in excellent cosmetic conditions (I am the 2nd owner and always kept in free-smoked studio as the 1st owner too) the Pro-One can generate many of the same sounds as the Prophet-5 and Prophet-10, capable of supremely punchy bass lines and distinctly ripping leads, fueled by two VCOs, referred to as Oscillator A and Oscillator B. he Pro-One has extensive modulation provision with three modulation sources available, featuring Filter Envelope Generator, Oscillator B, and a separate LFO. Each can be mixed and routed for either Direct or Wheel-controlled modulation. On the back of the unit, there are Audio, Filter CV, Gate/CLK, and CV inputs. Other features include a 40-note sequencer, an arpeggiator, Pitch and Mod wheels, Repeat and Drone switch, Single and Multiple-triggering keyboard modes, and the unique Automatic Glide, enabling one-handed complex, 'tuned' pitch bending sounds."
"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."
"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"
"Lots of variety can be added to simple patterns on the OTF using the Pattern Chain to play Pattern A and B in different orders and directions. Setting steps to Skip can change up the rhythm and groove quickly."
DEEP/4 is a painstaking recreation of one of the most powerful multi-effects processors ever built. Every algorithm has been rebuilt at the instruction level from the original 24-bit DSP hardware, preserving the exact digital character of the algorithms that made these units legendary in studios worldwide.
All 43 original algorithms, mathematically verified against the original DSP architecture. No guesswork.
Features
Four Independent Effects Engines
The DEEP/4 is a powerhouse multi-effects processor featuring 43 fully programmable, high-fidelity algorithms including reverbs, chorus, flanging, delays, distortion, and pitch shifting. Operate it as a single massive effects system, a pair of stereo processors, or four entirely independent units. Its advanced routing matrix supports true serial, parallel, and feedback configurations to sculpt complex effect topologies that conventional units simply can't touch. Flexible Multi-Unit Routing
Run all four units in series for massive effect chains, split them into parallel paths for layered textures, or use feedback routing to create evolving, self-modulating soundscapes. DEEP/4 provides independent routing control for each pair (A/B and C/D) plus a main bus link — supporting serial, parallel, and two feedback configurations with adjustable feedback amount. Use it as a single 4-unit processor, two independent stereo pairs, or four standalone effects. 43 Algorithms Across 7 Categories
From lush reverbs and complex multi-tap delays to pitch shifters, dynamics processors, and guitar amp simulations — every algorithm from the original hardware is here, rebuilt at the instruction level and fully programmable.
[Note: although DiscoDSP gives credit to The Usual Suspects, it's my understanding TUS is not happy about it. From a forum:
"He basically took our source, put his own wrapper on it and is trying to sell it and use it to promote his own business. Can't prevent it, but frankly this is reprehensible IMHO.
Yes. He knows he cannot legally "sell" it due to the licensing model our code is published under. Therefore he sells "support" of "his development efforts" to include difficult things like "git clone" and other Arcane and extremely difficult stuff. sigh... I'd strongly advise anyone using it not to actually pay him for it, but that is just my opinion.]
What isn't clear is whether the UI is just the player above or includes the full editors by The Usual Suspects. I'm hearing it's just the player, which in effect might be an upsell for the full editors by The Usual Suspects.
That said:
"Retromulator brings legendary hardware cores back to life through authentic low-level emulation. The virtual analog synths are powered by a faithful recreation of the Motorola DSP 56300 processor, the Yamaha DX7 runs a full emulation of its original chip set, and the Akai S1000 sampler plays your SF2, SFZ, and Bliss sample banks with studio-quality interpolation. Each core runs its actual firmware or sample data — delivering the unmistakable character of hardware that defined electronic music from the early 80s through the 2000s.
Unlike traditional software emulations that recreate synthesizer behavior by approximation, Retromulator emulates the original integrated circuits at the hardware level. The virtual analog synths run on a cycle-accurate Motorola DSP 56300, the Yamaha DX7 runs a full emulation of its Hitachi HD6303R sub-CPU and Yamaha YM21280/YM21290 EGS/OPS chip set, and the Akai S1000 sampler runs on the SFZero v3.0.0 engine with 8-point sinc interpolation supporting SF2, SFZ, ZBP, and ZBB sample banks. Each core executes its authentic firmware or sample data exactly as intended.
Load the ROM firmware from your own hardware or sample banks from your library, place them in the designated folder, and Retromulator takes care of the rest. The result is not an approximation — it is the real hardware running inside your DAW.
Retromulator is built on Gearmulator, an open-source synthesizer emulation project by the dsp56300 team. We are grateful for their extraordinary work in bringing these classic instruments back to life."
00:00 Intro 00:09 General overview of the cabinets 04:48 Brief history of Moog portable cabinets 05:48 901-B Oscillator 06:45 901-A Oscillator Controller 07:27 CP3 Mixer 07:54 Reverb 08:28 907 Fixed Filter Bank 10:11 902 Voltage Controlled Amplifier 10:20 904-A Low Pass Filter 14:01 904-B High PassFilter 16:14 904-C Filter Coupler 19:58 903-A Random Signal Generator 20:21 991 Filter and Attenuator 21:44 984 Four Channel Mixer 24:31 970 Metronome 25:46 Mic Preamp 27:38 952 Keyboard Controller 27:44 Patch #1 Explanation 28:38 Patch #1 Sound starts (basic) 32:34 Patch #2 Explanation 32:56 Patch #2 Sound starts 34:39 Playing with 911 36:04 Droning with Portamento 38:53 Outro ... and thanks :)
As Promised, here is the "extended cut" of my RA Moog IIIP (1969). I go through the overall layout of the system, a brief history on Moog portable cabinets, a demonstration of the different modules, and finally a few sound examples. I will admit, time gets lost when not following a script, so the chapters keep things moving along :). Thanks for the all the views, comments, likes etc .. I really appreciate it!!
Be sure to follow me on Instagram to see lots of photos of synths and recording stuff!!
"Just droning about with two syncussion voices in Mode A. That mode is coolk for kicks but not much else, so I thought I'd spice it up with vco B, filter fm, feedback and xmod. Use headphones or a sub for this one - low frequencies ahead..."
Where mathematics meets music: a unique synthesizer plugin that puts the power of mathematical expression directly at your fingertips. Instead of selecting from preset waveforms, you write your own equations to generate completely unique sounds.
Equation Synth is a unique synthesizer plugin that puts the power of mathematical expression directly at your fingertips. Instead of selecting from preset waveforms, you write your own equations to generate completely unique sounds. Whether you’re a sound designer seeking unprecedented sonic possibilities or a music producer looking for fresh, distinctive textures, Equation Synth opens up an infinite universe of waveforms limited only by your imagination.
Comprehensive Modulation System
Bring your equations to life with an extensive modulation matrix featuring:
Modulation Sources:
3 Envelopes (ADSR) with tempo sync options 3 LFOs with multiple waveform shapes (sine, square, saw), tempo sync, and delay Note Velocity for dynamic expression Modwheel for performance control MPE Support: Timbre and Pressure for expressive multi-dimensional control Modulation Destinations:
Route modulation to virtually any parameter including:
Volume, Pitch (Coarse/Fine) All Equation Parameters (A, B, C, D) Graph parameters (Scale X/Y, Offset X) Filter Cutoff and Resonance Noise Level Effect parameters (Chorus, Delay, Reverb, and more)
Effects Chain
Polish your equation-based sounds with a professional effects suite:
Delay: Stereo offset, feedback, tempo-synced timing Harmonic Reverb: Room size, damping, and mix controls Chorus: Modulation depth and rate Tape Simulator: Wow, Flutter, Saturation, as well as various tape player emulations Intuitive Interface Design
Inspired by classic calculator aesthetics, Equation Synth features:
LCD-style display showing equation input and real-time waveform visualization Tabbed interface organizing Equation, Synth, Modulation, Effects, and Note settings Integrated help system with context-sensitive guidance Virtual MIDI keyboard for quick auditioning Scalable, resizable window Preset management system for saving and recalling your creations Advanced MIDI & MPE Capabilities
"Named after the iconic White Stripes album, 'Icky Thump', this month’s Vault is our rare Fender Rhodes Piano Bass fed through Jack White’s signatures 'Knife Drop' fuzz pedal.
Iridium Desktop MK2 is a new generation of the highly acclaimed Iridium Desktop synthesizer introduced in 2020 by Waldorf Music, and since then used by countless artists and sound designers. After six years the time has come to advance the sonic success story even further.
Based on the legendary multi-engine design of the Quantum & Iridium product line, the MK2 innovates even further, thus fitting perfectly into Waldorf’s forward-looking synthesizer design philosophy.
The MK2 features a new and fresh design, and an improved CPU board with more RAM and flash storage allowing for more sample storage and opening a whole new world of synthesis capabilities.
Per-Note-Parameter-Locks
(ft. Aphex Twin)
Only on the MK2 you can enjoy a very special feature called Per-Note-Parameter-Locks which is the result of a collaboration with legendary Aphex Twin, a long-term Iridium Desktop user.
With this feature, each of the 128 notes can be assigned up to 16 individual parameter variations by simply holding a note and turning knobs. This system allows each note to have a different set of parameters. You can even change the synthesis mode of oscillators for each note or change effect parameters. It feels like adding a whole new dimension to your music. Per-Note-Parameter-Locks are saved with each patch and can be inspected and edited on a dedicated page.
Seeds – The Sixth Synthesis Sense
The added RAM further allows a new sixth synthesis method for each of the three oscillators. Inspired by wavetable synthesis, in which each wavetable represents a timbral journey, Waldorf has found a way to base these timbral journeys not only on static waveforms, but also to dynamically synthesize each waypoint from sub-oscillators we called “Seeds”. These can be controlled and recombined using techniques like ring modulation and frequency modulation, and enriched with noise and other non-pitched material. While we provide, similarly to wavetables, a set of predefined timbral journeys, you can also edit and create your own.
Protein’s “Flavour” Knob
The new knob called “Flavour” adds sonic liveliness using our new concept of micro-variations in timing, timbre, pitch, and a whole set of additional parameters we recently introduced with the Protein synthesizer.
More Memory, Layers & Sound
With the increased memory capacity, you can change the multi-timbral layer count from 2 to 4. In addition to layered and split modes, the new MK2 also features more advanced multi-timbral modes, such as round-robin and random-robin. These additions bring greater timbral richness and variety, letting you build deep and complex sonic landscapes. A dream come true for all sound designers, sonic explorers and cinematic artists!
Iridium & Quantum Update 4.0
A general update of the Iridium and Quantum operating system will be available soon.
Version 4.0 provides some of the new features for all existing Quantum and Iridium models like the Mutator patch randomizer introduced in the Microwave plugin, a new polyphonic arpeggiator, new microtonal features saved in patches and other features.
Connectivity Stereo Audio Out: 2x TS jacks Stereo Audio In: 2x TS jacks Headphones TRS output with level control DIN MIDI In, Out & Thru USB Type B (device) for MIDI connection to computer USB Type A (host) for storage media and MIDI devices MIDI 2.0 compatible MicroSD slot 4 high-resolution CV Inputs which can be used as modulation sources in the Mod-Matrix Analog clock In & Out with clock divider settings Analog gate and start inputs Kensington® compatible lock
"On Early Reflections, Insect O. built a sonic world using two key machines: the Access Virus A and the Novation Drumstation.
Chapters: 00:00 Intro 00:39 Novation Drumstation 01:59 Access Virus A 02:35 Live Session with both instruments 06:11 Outro
Music intro & outtro: Insect O. - Deep Blue
This video explores how those two pieces of hardware shaped the emotional depth and mechanical pulse of the LP — from evolving Virus pads and saturated basslines to sharp 909-style drums programmed on the Drumstation. By limiting the setup to a focused hardware workflow, Insect O. crafted a cohesive, raw sound that defines Early Reflections.
We break down: Technical aspects of the Access Virus A and Novation Drumstation Drum programming techniques on the Drumstation How the Virus A was used for pads, bass, and textured atmospheres Hands-on control for live performance
DeviceHigh Arktrues is a virtual analog synthesizer for Reaktor 6 by Native Instruments. Please note that you will need the retail version of Reaktor 6 to use it. This product is available for download only.
It can also be used with Reaktor 6 Player, but please note that you will not be able to save sounds and there is a 30-minute time limit. -- Arktrues is a synthesizer inspired by the legendary synthesizer that YMO fans have seen somewhere. While its structure is similar to that of a regular synthesizer, it also has some unique features and a variety of additional functions. Equipped with analog-like modulation, two filters, and various matrix modulations, it allows you to enjoy creating a wide variety of sounds while still maintaining the basic sound creation techniques of an analog synth. It does not place a high load on the CPU and can be used across multiple channels.
You can create a wide variety of sounds, from pulsating, grandiose pads to FM-like, extreme metallic sounds and sound effects.
