REPAIR and PLAY Episode 2: *Double Roland Juno 106* Voice Chip Replacement and more

video upload by Big Mag

"A friend of mine brought over a Roland HS60 for repair. I decided to fix up my personal Roland Juno 106s at the same time - then made a track using both of them!

Roland HS60 - basically a Roland Juno 106 with speakers and different button/switch color scheme. Took out the speakers to make the whole thing a little lighter, replaced the voice chips, battery on the CPU, some of the tactile switches.

Roland Juno 106s - Basically the same thing as the HS60 except same exact color scheme as the 106. I believe this model was sold in Japan only while the HS60 was for the US market. Replaced the speakers, needed a new LED display, new battery for CPU.

New voice chips provided by Double Heart Audio

Live recording played w/
Roland Juno 106S
Roland HS60
Moffenzeef Stargazer
Keystep PRO
SOMA Pulsar 23
Tascam M216"

EMS Synthi AKS

video upload by Double Heart Audio

"Here's a demo of the sequencer for an EMS Synthi AKS after repair and calibration."

Oberheim OB-1 Freshly Serviced

video upload by Double Heart Audio

Quick video showing the unique pitch bender on the OB-1.

Double Heart Juno 106 Voice chips

video upload by Double Heart Audio

"Sound demo of the Double Heart Audio voice chips for the Juno 106, HS-60, MKS-7, GR-700, Juno 106S

https://www.doubleheartaudio.com/"

"Set of 6 380017a modules. We designed our 380017a voice modules (voice chips, VCF/VCA, filter ICs) in-house, and we carefully test every single one for the Roland JUNO-106, HS-60, MKS-30, MKS-7, GR-700. Our modules are socketed so that you can easily swap them out in the very unlikely event of failure. We're confident that our modules will last—So confident, that we offer a lifetime replacement warranty."

Oberheim OB-8

video upload by Double Heart Audio

"Demoing a freshly serviced Oberheim OB-8. Service included, recap entire unit, replaced output jacks, replacing headers, added multi-turn trimmers to voices and PSU(low tolerance resistors already replaced), replaced bridge rectifiers, replacing problematic logic ics, replacing ribbon cable to keybed, replacing s few rubber key contacts(keydome strips), replacing burn out switch led, replacing one bad switch, reloading factory patches, cleaning pots, removing all keys and cleaning keys and under underneath keys, replacing missing hardware, full calibration

www.doubleheartaudio.com"

Elektron Digitakt 2 Incoming

Update: new pics and details added below.

Update2: Official announcement with videos here.

This one is making the rounds. The big reveal may be coming tomorrow per the screenshot further below, sent my way via Soviet Space Child. .

Details:

"With Digitakt II, you can weave splinters of sound in stereo, ripped from the moment and brought to your fingertips for marvelous audio manipulation and beat arraying. Enjoy easy to use sample-crafting and spectacular sequencing. Preserve or distort reality as you so desire with 16 tracks ready for stereo or mono samples, or MIDI and all kinds of modular adaptability.

Key Features

• Digital drum computer & stereo sampler
• 16 audio tracks all ready for stereo or mono samples, or MIDI
• Swappable filters: 1 Base-width filter and then 1 from Multi-mode, Low pass 4, Comb, EQ, or Legacy LP/HP
• 3 assignable LFOs per track
• Delay, reverb, chorus, bit reduction, sample reduction, and overdrive per track
• Updated modular workflow
• Euclidean sequence generator
• 128-step Elektron sequencer
• Expanded memory and power
• 4 × Trig modes
• Song Mode create, edit & play full compositions with ease"

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United Plugins introduces Instant Audio’s QuickMuse Multi-Effect Plug-in

video upload by United Plugins

Press release follows:

"United Plugins introduces Instant Audio’s QuickMuse as ultimate plug-in to ignite creativity powered by magic of randomness

'QuickMuse is my to-go inspiration muse as one of the easiest and best multi-effect plug-ins in my arsenal; two to three clicks and you have a vital, spacey sound with multi-faceted textures.'

- Future Bass- and Future Pop-specialising songwriter, composer, and producer Flashback One, 2023

PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC: independent development teams federation United Plugins is proud to announce availability of Instant Audio’s QuickMuse as another cross-brand collaboration between founding partner SounDevice Digital (forever fine-tuning tools based on longterm experience of mixing many recordings in its namesake SounDevice Studio) and FireSonic (famed for its always-searching-for-a- shortcut attitude) — duly delivering a multitude of instant yet unique results, injecting fresh and unpredictable elements into compositions, productions, and sound design as the ultimate plug-in for igniting creativity powered by the magic of randomness — representing the latest in a series of tools to instantly assist anyone in achieving their desired sound, as of November 1...

FIRE, EARTH, AIR, WATER, and AETHER
It is unfair to simply call QuickMuse an audio plug-in since there are five unique effects — FIRE, EARTH, AIR, WATER, and AETHER— at its creative core. Combining to unlock a world of sonic possibilities, all are inspired by their elemental namesakes. Needless to say, QuickMuse is simple to use as a smart randomising multi-effect; quickly clicking on the centralised ‘random button’ instantly generates inspirational settings using all five elements, as well as rearranging the ORDER in which they are processed in the effect chain. Thankfully, the random algorithm at its heart is ‘smart’, so it intelligently selects combinations of settings that work well together to give good results — read: no nasty or weird results. Repeatability is far from likely, however, given the sheer volume of hidden parameters it controls. (Ultimately, users can choose to manually control that ORDER by simply dragging and dropping those elements’ symbols accordingly, as well as bypassing their corresponding effect by double-clicking on any element, so random single effects are also achievable.)

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Moog Memorymoog Synthesizer SN 2869

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

via this auction

"Big, beautiful, and divine sounds abound from this clean & crisp Moog Memorymoog!

Just off a full service and restoration from Double Heart Audio, who are not only excellent synth technicians but have a special love for the Memorymoog, specifically. No previous mods or funky repairs to undo — this was a prime example for exactly what we wanted to achieve and it came out beautifully.

The entire synth was overhauled, including a full electrolytic recap, among other preventative and restorative measures. Everything is clean, the display is 100%, all 6 voices are tuned, and it’s fully calibrated. It’s also running smoother, quieter, and a whole lot cooler thanks to the custom PSU designed and installed by DHA (and it’s about 8 lbs lighter).

The last thing anyone wants to hear when looking for the right Memorymoog for reliable studio use and collection is “all original”. Finding a good tech locally for these is challenging, expensive, and usually comes with a very long lead time. This one is ready to go."

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Moog Memorymoog Plus Fully Serviced w/ DoubleHeart Audio Power Supply

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

via this auction

"This MemoryMoog Plus is fully functional, fully serviced and in excellent condition. It includes factory MIDI and a new DoubleHeartAudio power supply for ensured smoothness, low-noise and play-ability. <3<3

The MemoryMoog is a powerful vintage polyphonic synthesizer released in 1982. It features 6 voices, 3 VCO's per voice, Moog's signature 24 dB/oct lowpass VCF, and 100 patches of memory. It boasts flexible modulation routing with it's dedicated LFO that offers multiple waveforms, and selectable destinations including individual VCO's for pitch & pulsewidth, and filter cutoff. It also offers routing for Oscillator 3 for audio rate modulation or a second LFO.

This Memorymoog Plus is fully functional and in fantastic condition. It has been recently serviced by Switched On and Double Heart Audio technicians including a full recap, all knobs cleaned, & full calibration."

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New Rossum SP-1200 Officially Announced at $3,999.00

"Why did you take this approach with the SP-1200 reissue?" video upload by Rossum Electro-Music

What are some challenges working with vintage digital technology vs vintage analog designs?

via Rossum:

"This is a pre-order for the second lot of SP-1200 reissue units. We fully expect to be able ship the units from the second lot by the end of January 2022. Your payment method will be charged immediately. Limit 2 per customer.

The latest in the SP-12™ family, the Rossum SP-1200® is an authentic reissue of the iconic classic SP-1200 sampling percussion system. Building on the engineering of 2020’s 35th Anniversary SP-1200 Renovation, including study and analysis of many vintage units using modern technology not available during SP-1200’s original production run, the team determined that virtually all original components ought to be used in order to deliver the sound at the very highest standard of precision. E-mu Systems co-founder and original SP-12 and SP-1200 designer Dave Rossum has duplicated the original analog and digital electronics of the landmark 12-bit drum machine sampler as closely as is possible thirty-five years after its debut. Throughout the process of creating the SP-1200 reissue, Dave was delighted that with very few exceptions, authentic components exactly the same as those found in the vintage classic instrument could be used throughout and took great care to maintain the classic SP-12 and SP-1200 circuit board layouts. Inside and out, SP-1200 is faithful to the original operation and preserves the coveted, authentic sound and character of the classic vintage instrument. Through this labor of love, Dave was able to create an instrument that should sound exactly the same even to the most discerning ears.

Changes and enhancements were made where they were compatible with the original design, without compromising the classic vintage sound. Sampling memory has been expanded to the maximum capability of the original sound engine. An all-new memory card storage solution with new functions seamlessly integrated into the operating system allows musicians to conveniently save, rename, and delete files and folders, and supports importing vintage SP-1200 disk images packaged in the popular .HFE format. Also included in every box, a 3.5” “floppy” disk 💾 containing modified software for original vintage SP-1200 units adds a new Set-up Special function allowing users to transfer all sounds and sequences from an original SP-1200 to the Rossum SP-1200 reissue over a standard MIDI cable. Whether using 3.5” disks or the popular floppy drive emulator modification, users of classic SP-1200 units are able to recall and remix their work on the SP-1200 reissue.

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Three New Modules by Joranalogue

Immersive Chaos - 2 new modules by Joranalogue video upload by Synth Diy Guy

"I can finally 'unveil' the modules I've been hiding! Special for Superbooth 2021, directly from Mexico :D

I go deep into the voltage rabbit hole on this one, featuring my mostly Joranalogue box. Stay Noisy!

www.quincasmoreira.com"

via Joranalogue:

"After a long hiatus, it's SUPERBOOTH time again! We're excited to be in Berlin once more and present our latest developments. This time, we've got no less than 3 new Eurorack modules in the series! If you are attending the event, you can check them out for yourself at booth Z125 in the tent village, outside the FEZ Berlin venue. If not, read on below!

ENHANCE 2

Moving from mono to stereo sound: a logical progression for any synthesist looking to expand their sonic palette. Making use of two audio channels, rather than just one, quite literally adds another dimension to the capabilities of a synthesiser.

Unfortunately, controlling stereo signals can be a challenge within a modular system. This realisation led to the development of Enhance 2: a convenient yet high-fidelity tool for stereo enhancement.

The primary stereo parameters are balance (moving the sound left or right) and width (making it narrower or wider). In addition, tone control is provided by a pair of unique, wide-ranging mid/side voltage controlled tilt filters.

Apart from the internal tilt filters, mid/side outputs also enable external signal processing such as compression or reverberation. An integrated mid/side decoder returns the results back to standard stereo.

ORBIT 3

In everyday usage, 'chaos' means 'disorder, 'randomness'. In mathematics however, chaos has a very specific meaning. Chaos theory deals with systems exhibiting highly irregular behaviour, seemingly random yet completely deterministic.

Orbit 3 incorporates a modified electronic analogue of the classic double-scroll chaotic attractor. The voltages at each of the module’s outputs can be thought to describe the orbit of a particle through 3D space around two equilibrium points.

Not just limited to low frequency modulation use, Orbit 3 can operate in the audio frequency domain as well, yielding a variety of waveforms from its three complementary output pairs. These span a wide range, from near-sine waves to white noise. The addition of temperature compensation and calibrated pitch tracking makes for an unconventional and lively, yet also accurate audio oscillator.

STEP 8

Step 8 represents a new type of modular building block: a sequential tracking/sampling register, which can be configured to provide a variety of functions. These include sequencers, sequential switches, counters, analogue shift registers...

At its heart lies an analogue 1-to-8 signal switch feeding an octet of high-stability track/sample-and-hold stages. Each of these has its own analogue output with an attenuation slider, in addition to a gate output. LEDs visualise the status of each stage in real time. The switch can be controlled sequentially using the built-in 8-step counter, or addressed directly by an analogue control voltage (CV).

For those who are feeling adventurous, there are always more applications to try: configurable voltage mapper, hocketing controller, clock divider, graphic waveshaper, multi-output analogue downsampler...

Studio Electronics Eurorack Modules

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

via NOISEBUG Reverb

Note auction links are affiliate links. See the site's privacy policy for more info.

"What's nice about our OSCILLATION stunner (according to Tim) "is that the waveforms are DC-coupled [components connected directly together without any coupling capacitors], so they keep their shape even at sub-Hz speeds. The outputs are also buffered, so the amplitude is independent of the load they are driving. The waveform levels on some modern eurorack OSCs are often all different, and they vary depending if they go into the mixer or directly to the filter!" Coupling the circuitry without capacitors in-line gives the go-ahead for the full spectrum of frequencies to do their thing, and ensures near identical response over the years—audiophile, transistor-protecting signal path stuff here. You should see these beauts on the scope: a Class-A ballet of balance and proportion, only drawing modest current, rather evenly from plus and minus."

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AEMIT Presents Innovative Eurorack Modules for the Discerning Synthesist

AEMIT ~ Some Sound Snippets from Aemit modular on Vimeo.
AEMIT - Formant tests with System 7.5

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Analogue Solutions Generator Sequencer Now Available for Purchase

Published on Sep 14, 2018 Analogue Solutions

"Generator sequencer - Loop points and Freeze. This video shows you some cool things you can do unique to this sequencer."

"Analogue Solutions plays to win with highly-versatile next-generation Generator step sequencer

KINGSWINFORD, UK: having made musical waves with a prototype presentation at SUPERBOOTH18 in Berlin before speedily selling out of its first batch, British boutique electronic instruments innovator Analogue Solutions is proud to announce (approaching) availability of a second batch of its next-generation Generator step sequencer — a highly- versatile, multi-channel analogue appliance specifically targeted towards making it easy, fun, and intuitive to change generated rhythms and also play alternative sequences — as of September 14…

As implied by the CV & GATE SEQUENCE GENERATOR wording which is boldly blazoned across a pleasingly well-populated panel, Analogue Solutions’ next- generation Generator is no ordinary step sequencer. As a compact, slim form factor desktop design featuring three parallel-running, 16-step CV (control voltage) channels — CV CHANNEL A, CV CHANNEL B, and CV CHANNEL C — and an array of associated hands-on controls housed in a rugged steel and aluminium chassis with no plastic mouldings (making it ideally suited to withstanding the rigours of the road while being equally at home in the studio, home- based or otherwise), Generator is actually a playable step sequencer at its musical heart. How, exactly, it does that is exactly what sets it apart from the run-of- the-mill step sequencing pack.

Put it this way: with Generator it’s not simply a case of setting up a short sequence of notes to be left looping ad infinitum, as is still the case with some step sequencers out there — though there is still something to be said for those mesmerising musical compositions conjured up by the repetitive note patterns pioneered and popularised by the likes of Germany’s homegrown Kraftwerk and Tangerine Dream during their Seventies heyday and appropriated in many musical styles since; instead, its user interface is deftly designed to make it easy, fun, and intuitive to change generated rhythms and also play alternative sequences.

Firstly, four dedicated knobs offering patent-pending IReTiGaC (Intuitive Real Time Gate Control) can change the rhythm of the beats for the pattern playing by setting which of the 16 steps of the sequence will produce gates; slowly rotating each knob adds more beats in specific positions, thereby increasing the intensity of the rhythm. A pair of associated GATE pattern outputs are available alongside a FLIPPED GATE ‘copy’ — positive voltage with an inverted ‘state’ (so the output does the opposite of the main GATE outputs) — for flexibility when connecting to suitably-equipped analogue synthesisers, Eurorack modular system setups, or other analogue equipment. These output the rhythm set using those IReTiGaC knobs, and using both together with two different synths creates considerable interplay between them.

The wonderful world of the VOLTAGE GENERATOR is where Generator really steps up to the plate to offer some serious alternative action, though. This is a special kind of transposer/CV generator with six ‘slots’ — each activated using its own triangular-shaped gold-plated pressure plate. The corresponding knob above each plate is used to set the control voltage output of the VOLTAGE GENERATOR within an approximate range of 0-5V. Those voltage outputs can be sent straight to and mixed with CV CHANNEL A, CV CHANNEL B, and CV CHANNEL C’s respective CV A, CV B, and CV C outputs sockets, with an associated SHIFT switch’s settings determining what goes where: setting said switch into its ‘up’ position results in the VOLTAGE GENERATOR being mixed with A, B, C (CV CHANNEL A, CV CHANNEL B, and CV CHANNEL C); ‘centre’ is off, and ‘down’ results in the VOLTAGE GENERATOR only being mixed with C (CV CHANNEL C). The VOLTAGE GENERATOR’s control voltage is also always available on its own CV output, allowing users to patch it back somewhere else — even externally (to a suitable synth or modular setup).

So what, exactly, can be done with this visionary VOLTAGE GENERATOR? For starters, it can conceivably be used as a standalone six ‘note’ interval CV keyboard to directly play an external CV-equipped synthesiser, such as Analogue Solutions’ own Treadstone (taking the same smart, small, and affordable desktop design-driven analogue attributes of its similarly superior-sounding synthBlocks signal-processing siblings and applying them to a true analogue mono synth that packs a lot of patchable punch into a perfectly-matched, portable package). Patching possibilities abound as the VOLTAGE GENERATOR pressure plates are routed to its own outputs: the CV socket outputs control voltage, so pressing plates harder results in a higher voltage that can, for instance, be used to creatively control clock tempo, intensity, fill, or transpose via their respective INT CLOCK TEMPO, INTENSITY, FILL, and TRANSPOSE sockets. (The INTENSITY input uses a CV of approximately 0-5V to alter the intensity of the rhythm with more beats being added to the rhythm as the voltage increases; the FILL input is similar to INTENSITY, but only affects the last four steps to alter the pattern of notes in the last four beats of the sequencer.) The GATE socket outputs a gate that can be used to clock the sequencer, RESET or START it, for example. Additionally, another output voltage from the VOLTAGE GENERATOR can also be patched to alter internal clock speed or transpose. That said, there are also QUANTISED VG output sockets outputting the same signal which will quantise the VOLTAGE GENERATOR voltage to the nearest semitone (when using 1V/oct synths).

Thereafter, thanks to those three parallel channels of 16 steps, Generator steps back into more familiar step sequencing territory — albeit with dedicated start and end LOOP point controls for initiating interesting patterns — that plays well with any analogue gear that has CV and Gate inputs, including vintage or more modern analogue synths and Eurorack modular system setups. Since it does not feature a MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) output, it is clearly not a MIDI sequencer — nor a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) control surface. Saying that, it is equipped with a MIDI IN socket, so allows sync, start, stop, and resend control signals to be sent from a DAW or MIDI sequencer. Speaking of which, using MIDI Note information, users can program their own ‘clock pattern’ that can run to clock Generator at the same tempo, half the number of notes to run Generator at half tempo, double the number of notes to run it at double tempo, or even mute the clock note pattern to silence Generator at a particular point before unmuting to get it running again, all the while creating rhythmic patterns to make Generator syncopate with DAW patterns — much more creative and gratifying than simply using MIDI sync alone.

Analogue Solutions is clearly playing to win with its next-generation Generator step sequencer — so much so that the likes of (the still-active) Kraftwerk and Tangerine Dream should seriously consider playing with one (or more) onstage or in the studio. Speaking of which, English electronic music duo The Chemical Brothers already have access to two! That said, chances are musician, composer, arranger, record producer, and music programmer par excellence Martyn Ware would also approve... after all, he co-composed Sheffield synth-pop funksters Heaven 17’s influential single ‘Play To Win’ way back in 1981, at a time when synthesisers started to make a serious dent in the charts, exciting the ears of one teenage Tom Carpenter — Analogue Solutions’ future founder — in the process.

Priced at £629.00 GBP (inc. VAT)/$749.00 USD/€679.00 EUR (inc. VAT), Generator is available to purchase through Analogue Solutions’ growing global network of authorised dealers — including Analogue Solutions itself — listed here: http://www.analoguesolutions.com/dealers/"

Dave Smith Instruments Prophet Rev2 Synthesizer Demo

Published on Feb 9, 2017 World of Stereo

"Team members Josh and Matt take an exclusive trip to the Dave Smith headquarters in San Francisco to get the low down on the brand new Prophet Rev2 poly-synth. Direct audio and some awesome soundscapes await!

About the Prophet Rev2:
Dave Smith Instruments new REV2 16-voice analog synthesizer designed to be a successor to the Prophet ’08. Like its predecessor, the REV2 features two DCOs per voice and Curtis filters at the heart of its sound engine, but boasts a number of significant enhancements designed to make it more powerful. As Dave Smith puts it, 'The Prophet ’08 has been a real road warrior for 10 years now and people still love it. But we felt it was time to update it with new technology and new features and, at the same time, lower its cost.' Smith continued: 'The REV2 is essentially the result of our effort to enhance and improve everything we could about the original Prophet ’08 and, in many cases, double its power.' The most obvious difference between the REV2 and its predecessor is polyphony."

https://www.davesmithinstruments.com/product/prophetrev2

Dave Smith Instruments Introduces the REV2 16-voice Analog Poly Synth

Published on Jan 19, 2017 Dave Smith Instruments

"All sounds created on the REV2. Introducing the all new 16-voice analog REV2 poly synth!"



Update: audio demos added above. Hi-res pics added below. Click each for the supersize shot.

And the official press release follows. Ships April 2017 with a MAP of $1499.

"Prophet ’08 Successor Boasts Expanded Polyphony, Digital Effects, Waveshaping Capabilities

Anaheim, CA—January 19, 2017—Dave Smith today announced the REV2, a new 16-voice analog synthesizer designed to be a successor to their popular Prophet ’08 poly synth. Like its predecessor, the REV2 features two DCOs per voice, and Curtis filters at the heart of its sound engine, but boasts a number of significant enhancements designed to make it more powerful.
As Dave Smith puts it, “The Prophet ’08 has been a real road warrior for 10 years now and people still love it. But we felt it was time to update it with new technology and new features and, at the same time, lower its cost.” Smith continued: “The REV2 is essentially the result of our effort to enhance and improve everything we could about the original Prophet ’08 and, in many cases, double its power.”

The most obvious difference between the REV2 and its predecessor is polyphony. The REV2 has 16-voices as its standard configuration — twice the polyphony of the Prophet ’08 (though an 8-voice option is also available). Since the synth features bi-timbral operation, two completely independent sounds can be stacked or split — layered together or assigned to two different zones on the keyboard.

The essence of its sound comes from two DCOs (plus a sub-octave generator on oscillator 1) per voice, with 4 waveshapes (sawtooth, triangle, sawtooth + triangle, and pulse) and a 2/4 pole low-pass, resonant Curtis filter per voice. These are the same filters used not only in the Prophet ’08, but also in many classic instruments of the ’70s and ’80s. A new feature unique to the REV2 is waveshape modulation. You can vary the “pulse width” of any of the four waveforms by manually dialing in a desired waveshape width or by using an LFO or other modulation source for continuously shifting timbre.

An effects section provides reverb, delays (standard and BBD), chorus, phase shifter, ring modulation, and distortion. In stacked or split voice mode, you can apply a different effect to each layer. Effects parameters can be modulated through the mod matrix, which is twice as extensive as its predecessor, with 8 individual slots and many more sources/destinations.

A new polyphonic step sequencer allows up to 64 steps and up to 6 notes per step. A different sequence can be created for each layer when working in stacked or split voice mode. A separate gated sequencer functions as a modulation source, allowing you to create up to 4 different 16-step sequences for complex modulation. Sequences allow ties and rests, and can sync to an external MIDI clock. The arpeggiator features note repeats, re-latching, and can be synced to external MIDI clock, as well. Other improvements include a premium-quality, five-octave, semi-weighted keyboard with velocity and channel aftertouch, an integrated power supply, USB support, and a crisp OLED display.

'We’ve created a monster,' joked Smith, 'and I mean that in the best possible way.'

The REV2 has a projected ship date of April 2017 with a MAP of $1499 for the 8-voice version and $1999 for the 16-voice version."

https://www.davesmithinstruments.com/product/rev2/

Click each image for the supersize shot.

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The Hook Up: Introducing Hook

Published on Jul 1, 2016 Retronyms

"New App coming from Retronyms! Hook is available July 21st for iPhone and iPad

Featured in the demos:
?uo=4&at=11laIJ
"Bass Heavy Trap"
Loopmasters
http://retronyms.com/audiocopy/store/...

JME "Man Don't Care"
2015, Boy Better Know
https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/man...

D Double E "Street Fighter Riddim"
2010, Dirtee Stank Recordings
https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/str...

Hook is a new music performance, mashup, and DJ app for iPhone and iPad. Arrange and trigger loops on a grid and create dynamic, expressive transitions with the Flux Fader — a multitouch "smart crossfader" that allows you to expressively make transitions between any combination of tracks/cells on the fly. The Flux Fader includes a two-axis control with 9 riser synths, glitch and gate effects, tempo-synced filter sweeps, an EQ, beat drop, tape stop, and filter drop. Combining all these to make transitions is the heart of playing live with Hook. Hook includes a full editor complete with auto transient slicing and waveform editing. Tight integration with AudioCopy makes it easy to drop in your own loops and sounds from other apps.

Real creative power can be found in the integrated sampler — record from mic/line, other apps via inter-app audio, and grab hooks from iTunes and Spotify. Change tempo in real time, and keep all your hooks in sync. Hook is a killer mashup tool with a full mixer, tons of tracks, integrated FX bus, per-cell fx, transpose, time stretching, tuning, timing and trigger settings, and more. Imagine the clip launching capabilities of Ableton Live in a futuristic multitouch environment."

Madrona Labs Introduces Virta Sound Controlled Synthesis and Effects

We have a new synth app from Madrona Labs, the maker of the Buchla inspired Aalto. This one uses audio to synthesize new sounds. The synthesis and effect can be subtle or extreme as you can hear in the demos above.

Via the Madrona Labs website:

"Virta is a patchable toolbox for turning your voice or other instrument into wild new synth sounds."

And from the manual:

"Synthesizers and effects. In this crazy mixed-up world, what could be better? On and on, we tweak and twist, searching for something. Smiles creeping across our faces all the while. The roiling sea of knobs and buttons and lights are magnetic. We seek, pure of heart, to merge with the world of sound.

Alas, we sometimes find ourselves stopped short.

It can be a tall order to get the level of expression and immediacy that you crave with traditional synthesizers and processors. is goes double if you’ve got to work quickly, but want to maintain a satisfying amount of complexity and variance in your sound. Perhaps, in the heat of a creative moment, you have wished to simply dive into a synth or effect and command it by thought. There is no shame in that.

This, to a large degree, is why we’ve created Virta - a modular synthesizer and effects processor that responds directly to you.

When you route your voice (or any kind of audio) into Virta, the sound analysis engine precisely extracts information about its pitch, timbre, and dynamics over time. These new signals can control nearly any parameter in Virta, just the same as you can with MIDI or OSC.

Tis makes for an instrument that can easily follow your every twist and turn. Living the dream, really. Then again, Virta is modular, so audio-controlled synthesis is just one road you can travel. You can also make stuff like:

• Expressive vocal processing chains
• 4-voice MIDI-controlled pitch shi ers
• MIDI/OSC-controlled synths (with or without audio control)
• Drones for days
• First-ever faithful emulation of the mating call of the Space Pony

A Quick Overview
Virta’s interface has four main sections, from top to bottom:
• The header section, where you’ll nd the patch menu, along with the version and registration status of your copy of Virta.
• The signals and shapes section, where AUDIO and MIDI/OSC (KEY) signals ow into Virta, and where the oscillators (OSC1 and OSC2) and modulators (LFO, and ENVELOPE) reside.
• The patcher section, where connections between modules are made and unmade.
• The processing and output section, where the sounds you make are massaged and processed to perfection by the FORMANT, GATE, DE- LAY, and OUTPUT modules"

Blamsoft Viking Synthesizer for IOS AU Released

Blamsoft Viking Synthesizer for IOS AU - Overview and Sounds

Published on Feb 25, 2016 Synth Anatomy

"In this video, I give you an exclusive first look at the new IOS Audio Unit Synthesizer Viking from Blamsoft. Viking is an emulation of the Moog Voyager Analog Monophonic Synthesizer. This new AU comes with 178 Presets which are accessible at the moment from Garangeband and AUM Mixer.

In this demo I give you all information about Viking and demo at the end some factory presets. For the video, I use the new AUM Mixer App from Kymatica."

Viking was available for Reason with a Moog Voyager Old School style display. You can find a video of it controlled by Lemur posted back in 2013 here.

iTunes: Viking Synth - Blamsoft, Inc.

"Special introductory price lasts through March!

Viking Synth is an emulation of the famous Moog® Voyager monophonic analog synthesizer. It has three continuously variable wave oscillators, two ladder filters with a Dual Lowpass or Highpass/Lowpass configuration, a multi-wave LFO, and two modulation busses. Viking Synth uses state of the art DSP technology to accurately reproduce the sound of the hardware. The same algorithms are found in the popular Rack Extension for Propellerhead Reason. You get a desktop quality plug-in at an iOS friendly price.

Viking Synth is an Audio Unit Extension Instrument that works as a plug-in inside host apps. Just open up your favorite host that supports Audio Unit Instruments and select it from the list of available Audio Units. Compatible with GarageBand, Cubasis, MTS, and AUM.

The user interface of Viking Synth is designed for quick and intuitive control. Knobs and sliders expand during tweaking and are designed so the current value isn't hidden below your finger. The six pages divide the synth into logical sections that can be accessed quickly. The filter display acts as an XY pad for controlling cutoff and resonance. Simply double tap a knob or slider to reset it to its default value.

Presets
Viking Synth comes with 178 presets in the categories Bass, Bright Lead, Electro Bass, FX, Percussive Lead, and Soft Lead. The synth excels at thick bass and rich lead sounds. The 50 Electro Bass presets were designed by renowned sound designer eXode. Note that Cubasis and MTS do not currently support Audio Unit presets. Presets work perfectly with GarageBand and AUM.

Oscillators
At the heart of Viking are three adjustable wave oscillators. The continuously variable waveform knob gives the oscillators a unique sound that can’t be achieved with the fixed waveforms found in most synths. A noise oscillator provides three types of noise, one specifically modeled after the hardware.

Modulation
Two modulation busses and an LFO provide flexible modulation capabilities. All of the options hidden deep in menus on the hardware are immediately accessible with one tap.

Filters
The filters are classic transistor ladder filters modeled meticulously. Two DSP varieties are available allowing for either reduced CPU load or soft clipping plus three additional overdriven modes. The number of poles is adjustable for a wider range of filter sounds.

Compare Viking to the leading brand:
– Viking’s oscillators are free running, not sampled, wavetable based, or generated from a zero point
– Viking’s oscillators use advanced techniques to avoid aliasing
– Viking’s oscillators have instability, which is controllable through the tuning drift control
– Viking’s nonlinear filter uses circuit modeling and provides soft clipping"

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Pittsburg Modular Officially Introduces Lifeforms Eurorack Systems

"Introducing Lifeforms Eurorack Systems
Our best sounding synthesizer yet, Lifeforms systems are available in three configurations. System 101, System 201, and System 301 are the perfect gateway to the eurorack modular synthesizer world.

Interactive inspiration machines. The next generation of our System line of eurorack synthesizers harnesses the power of the new Lifeforms modules and Structure enclosures. Designed around the Lifeforms SV-1 modular analog synthesizer voice and anchored by the classic Pittsburgh Modular filter and two full range analog oscillators packed with harmonically rich waveforms, the Lifeforms Systems offer a rich sound palette with the flexibility of an open, fully patchable analog voice architecture.

The System 201 and System 301 also include the Lifeforms KB-1 pressure sensitive keyboard controller. The pressure sensitive keyboard maximizes the creative process with arpeggios, sequences, triggers, voltage memory, and more. More information on the entire Lifeforms line is available at lifeformsmodular.com.

Evolution of the Synthesizer Voice
The Lifeforms SV-1 is a fully patchable synthesizer module, destined to be the heart and soul of any eurorack modular system. It features two independent, full-range analog oscillators, and the unmistakeable sound of the Pittsburgh Modular filter paired with a highly curated set of modular tools designed to fuel the creative fire. More information on the Lifeforms SV-1 is available at lifeformsmodular.com/sv-1.

Control At Your Fingertips
Shape music like never before with the Pittsburgh Modular Lifeforms KB-1 pressure sensitive controller. The Lifeforms KB-1 eurorack module provides a multi-function, expressive, capacitive touch keyboard designed for performance. It contains a powerful one octave pressure sensitive keyboard complete with arpeggiator, step sequencer, preset voltage memory array, and a pair of multi-mode trigger pads. Eleven patchable outputs and a deep feature set enable an unprecedented level of control over any eurorack system. More information on the Lifeforms KB-1 is available a lifeformsmodular.com/kb-1."

Lifeforms SV-1
Analog Modular Synthesizer
Suggested Retail Price $699

"The Heart and Soul of Modular Synthesis
The Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers Lifeforms SV-1 is a complete dual oscillator synthesizer, designed to be the core of your eurorack modular system. Building on the sound and legacy of our celebrated Waveforms oscillator, the SV-1 module features two full-range independent analog oscillators; sound sources that are perfect for dynamic and inspired performances. In addition to these two high-performance oscillators, we stuffed the SV-1 with a perfectly curated set of modular synthesis tools including dual, chained mixers, a plucky, four stage envelope generator, and of course, our legendary analog state-variable filter.

The Lifeforms SV-1 is a synthesizer powerhouse, providing absolutely everything you need to create gigantic and iconic synth sounds: roaring bass, shimmering leads, lush pads and warm drones are only a few knob turns away. Instantly, out of the box, a rich feature set with a fluid, easy to understand interface empowers you to create vibrant, thick tones. Modulation and Tools sections fill out the analog SV-1 modulation capabilities with a triangle and square LFO, two sub-octave oscillators chained to the main oscillator, and noise with sample & hold.

Your Sound, Your Way
Pre-patched under the hood, patch cables are not necessary to get started. But as soon as you begin patching, you will feel the power provided by the 53 patch points and 21 knobs. By breaking each feature of the synthesizer out with patch cables, a tremendous amount of flexibility and control emerges to patch up any sound your imagination can dream up. All the tried and true analog classics are there at your disposal: sine, sawtooth, triangle and square. In addition, our exclusive and powerful blade wave on Oscillator 1 adds a unique weapon to your sonic arsenal. Deep modulation options award you complex control of nearly every function of the SV-1.

A Team Player
We’ve designed the Lifeforms SV-1 to be the perfect centerpiece of any eurorack synthesizer regardless of size. In a smaller system, the SV-1 provides a wide variety of synthesis options through a hefty set of synthesis tools. Combined with a larger collection of modules, you can unlock never-before-heard expressiveness and unparalleled control over the rich feature set of the SV-1. The ability to patch and integrate the SV-1 with other existing eurorack compatible gear gives you truly infinite modulation and expansion options.

Integrated Synthesizer Components

MIDI
We started with the core of our rock solid MIDI 3 module then modified the source code to create a feature set specifically designed for the SV-1. This MIDI to CV converter enables you to connect all your MIDI-compatible gear and convert it to control voltage right inside the SV-1. Volt per octave and gate outputs allow you to connect to your MIDI keyboard or DAW and take control of the SV-1 your way.

Extensive patch options give you access to glide, CC, and velocity. A digital clock-syncable LFO with triangle and quantized random voltage waveforms provides even more modulation options. A clock input allows you to override the internal or MIDI clock and sync to external CV and gate clock signals. A built-in arpeggiator provides all of the deep arpeggio responses from the MIDI 3, including as played, double triggered, random, and random with random gate. This unlocks another level of playability and the capacity to create complex and fresh musical patterns out of just a few notes.

Oscillator 1 and Oscillator 2
Our next-generation dual analog oscillator provides the sonic framework for massive synth sounds or deep exploration of west coast style frequency modulation. Sine, triangle, saw, and square waves are at your control, all available to modulate via FM and hard sync. As a bonus, Oscillator 1 also contains our unique blade wave. The shape of the blade wave can be controlled using the width CV input, creating a sweeping or chorusing effect. Oscillator 2 is normalled to the FM of Oscillator 1, providing jaw-dropping analog FM bass, deep percussive hits, searing leads, and thick, warm analog pads which all come to life from these two modern, organic sounding oscillators. Both analog oscillators dip well below audio rate, allowing them to function as voltage controllable LFOs.

Modulation and Tools
A wide-range utility LFO with triangle and square wave outputs is ideal for VCA or Filter frequency sweeps. Or, turn it up and release the dynamic FM capabilities of either oscillator. A Tools section provides access to two sub-octave oscillators, derived from Oscillator 1’s core frequency. Analog noise and sample & hold finish out the Tools section — the hold function is initially pre-wired to MIDI clock, and equips you to create perfectly timed, random voltage steps.

Mixer
This versatile four channel mixer comes pre-wired for fast access to Oscillator 1’s sine, saw, pulse and sub. However, you are just a patch cable away from instantly making your own unique blend of waveforms from the SV-1. The mixer can be split into two independent two channel mixers simply by patching into the top output.

State Variable Filter
Rich and thick, the sound of the revered Pittsburgh Modular Filter is unmistakable. Absolutely stunning harmonic character with voltage control over the entire frequency range. A provided attenuverter lets you dial in exactly how much CV to feed the frequency input, even inverting the input for dramatic changes in modulation. Separate highpass, lowpass, and bandpass outputs are provided as breakout options, each with their own powerful sonic timbres. Turn up the resonance for an added growl, giving your tones an aggressive edge that no softsynth can match.

Four Stage Envelope Generator
Designed specifically for the Lifeforms SV-1 with a plucky, organic feel, our four-stage analog ADSR allows you to generate envelopes with remarkable, precise control over each stage. Pre-patched to receive gate signals directly from MIDI, the gate input may be overridden by any available clock, trigger, or square wave source.

Voltage Controlled Amplifier
The amplifier section not only controls the overall level of the output, but is voltage controllable. A clean, responsive VCA, capable of everything from transparent control to mild overdrive contours audio or CV signals. The ADSR is pre-patched to the level CV providing shape to the synthesizer audio.

Splitters
Two unbuffered audio or CV splitter sections allow you duplicate your signal in creative ways, routing a single audio or CV source to multiple destinations.

Line Level and Headphone Outputs
High quality stereo headphone amplifier and monophonic line level outputs controlled by a master volume knob.

User Manual
Coming soon...

Module Specifications
Panel size 48hp | Depth 35mm | Power consumption 230mA with reversed power polarity protection"

Lifeforms KB-1
Pressure Sensitive Keyboard Controller
Suggested Retail Price $499

"Take Control
Shape your music like never before with the new Lifeforms KB-1; a unique and intuitive set of tools designed for controlling your eurorack modular system. The Lifeforms KB-1 provides a multi-function, expressive, capacitive touch keyboard designed for performance. The KB-1 contains a powerful one octave adjustable, pressure sensitive keyboard complete with arpeggiator, step sequencer, four voltage memory pads and two trigger pads. Eleven outputs and a deep feature set enable you to explore new sonic territory with an unprecedented level of control.

Monophonic and Duophonic response modes with user-selectable note priority and retrigger options let you customize the KB-1 specifically to your needs. Octave buttons provide quick selection of one of seven available octaves for a wide sonic range. Monophonic mode allows you to perform soaring leads, buttery basslines with legato, or classic arpeggios. Or, take control of two separate oscillators in Duophonic mode to create rich soundscapes, complex drones and arps, lush pads, and thundering bass.

Easily program melodic sequences with maximum flexibility. Along with immersive keyboard features, there is also a powerful ten note arpeggiator and sixty-four note sequencer, each focused around playability, empowering you to craft inspiring melodies, or utilize the stepped voltage as control for other parameters, such as filter frequency or VCA control.

The Next Step
The Lifeforms KB-1 features a playable, ten note arpeggiator. This robust arpeggiator can cycle through one to three octaves. The arpeggiator in the Lifeforms KB-1 contains three different arpeggiator modes, including single or double note trigger, and random monophonic or duophonic note cycling with random gates . Probability gate burst mode can trigger additional random gates to add complexity to arpeggios. This feature, unique to the Lifeforms KB-1, enables you to have rolling pulses divided by the clock source, allowing for dramatic rhythmic variations of your sequence.

A feature-packed sixty-four step sequencer with multiple play modes gives you precise control over the cycling of your sequence. Sequences can be played forward, reverse, or random. Sequences are quickly created by step programming and each step can have one of six step modifiers: pitch bend, tie, single trigger, double trigger, quad trigger, and whole note. Once the sequence is complete, the first note of a sequence can be shifted back or forward, resulting in generating new sequences out of your initial performance. Probability gate burst mode is also available to sequences adding realtime complexity to a performance.

Express Yourself
The two assignable trigger buttons enable you to unleash your creative potential in new ways. Trigger 1 and trigger 2 can be independently assigned to one of six different trigger button modes including pressure sensitive pitch bend, gate, latch enable/disable, trigger, pressure sensitive trigger burst generator, and a pressure sensitive clock divider.

Preset Voltage Memories
The programmable voltage memory section can function as a four channel sequencer, cycling forward, reverse, or randomly; or the active channel can be selected manually allowing the section to function as a 4 channel voltage memory. Voltages are unquantized analog voltages between 0 and 5 volts. Multiple clocking options are available to drive the preset voltage memory sequencer.

On the Beat
The Lifeforms KB-1 can be clocked internally via tap tempo or from an external clock source such as a sequencer, square wave, trigger, or clock divider. This allows you to either play on your own, or perform locked in time with external devices.

User Manual
Coming soon...

Module Specifications
Panel size 42hp | Depth 38mm | Power consumption 160mA with reversed power polarity protection"