Korg Phase8 Review: What happens when Physical Resonators meet Synthesis?

video upload by loopop

"Explore Phase8 at home with my multisamples on Patreon: ► / loopop"

TIMELINE: 0:00 Intro 1:45 Overview 3:15 Vel & env 3:55 Buttons 5:30 Air fader 6:00 Shift 6:20 Pluck 6:50 Drones 7:20 Drone jam 7:50 Build & IO 8:15 In the box 8:35 Mod left 8:55 Mod right 10:25 Mod center 10:50 Settings 11:25 Center #2 11:45 Step seq 12:35 Live seq 13:55 Automation 15:25 MIDI 15:45 Pros & cons 19:00 Three jams

The Phase8 has finally made it to market. Check with dealers on the right for availability.

Press release follows:

KORG Introduces phase8, an Eight-Voice Acoustic Synthesizer

MELVILLE, NY - KORG announces the phase8, an eight-voice acoustic synthesizer designed for musicians and creators who want sound that feels alive, immediate, and deeply responsive. Using Acoustic Synthesis technology developed at KORG, phase8 merges physically vibrating steel resonators with precise electronic control to deliver an instrument that behaves like an acoustic object while offering the creative flexibility of a synthesizer. It answers the need for a new kind of expressive electronic instrument by generating sound in the physical world, responding to touch and interaction, and integrating seamlessly into today’s creative setups through MIDI, USB-MIDI, Sync, and CV connectivity.

At the heart of phase8 are eight independent electromechanical voices driving steel resonators to produce genuinely acoustic vibration. KORG supplies 13 chromatically tuned resonators with the instrument, eight of which can be installed at a time, allowing players to customize the tuning, scale, and character of their setup. Through envelope control, these resonators can move from short, percussive hits to long, sustained tones, encouraging hands-on exploration and performance. The resonators are easily swappable and tunable, making the instrument adaptable to individual playing approaches and musical environments.

phase8 has been designed not only to sound organic, but to feel interactive in use. Players are invited to shape sound directly, touching, plucking, strumming, or tapping the resonators, or even experimenting with found objects to introduce new textures. An AIR slider lets users boost or quiet the acoustic response of what they bring into contact with the instrument, enhancing its tactile, haptic character and underscoring its role as a physical instrument as much as an electronic device.

For structured creativity, phase8 features an intuitive sequencer that supports both step programming and unquantized live recording, with step skip available per voice to enable complex polymetric rhythms. Sequences can be stored and recalled across eight memory slots, while all front-panel parameters can be automated using the record function, allowing evolving passages and detailed motion to be captured directly into performance. Three modulation modes are available, including tremolo and two pitch-dependent audio-rate modulation types, with the final mode offering optional harmonic quantization. A trigger delay, controllable via the instrument’s shift knob, allows delayed resonator triggers relative to the selected or synchronized tempo, further expanding rhythmic expression. phase8 is designed to integrate effortlessly into modern creative workflows. External MIDI devices can trigger the Acoustic Synth, while the phase8 sequencer can, in turn, trigger external MIDI instruments over MIDI or USB-MIDI. Tempo synchronization is available over MIDI, USB-MIDI, and Sync, and CV input (±5V) allows parameter control from compatible analogue hardware. The instrument provides MIDI TRS-A In/Out, USB-C for USB-MIDI and firmware, Sync In/Out, a ¼-inch line audio output, and a 3.5mm headphone output.

Practical considerations match the innovation inside. phase8 runs on a 12V AC adaptor and consumes 4.8W of power. It measures 231 x 236.5 x 46 mm, weighs 1.71 kg, and ships with an AC adaptor, hex key, Quick Start Guide, Precautions Sheet, and five more resonators alongside the included chromatically tuned set. phase8 is a new chapter in expressive instrument design, bringing together acoustic behavior, electronic precision, real-time interaction, and deep sequencing control in a compact, performance-ready form. For more information, please visit NAMM Booth #6802 or online at www.korg.com.

Street Price: $1149.99 USD

KORG Introduces the KAOSS PAD V

video upload by Korg

Korg KAOSS PAD KPV // In-depth review & tutorial

video upload by loopop

Press release follows:


KORG Introduces KAOSS PAD V: A Touch Evolution for Modern Performance and Production

MELVILLE, NY - Korg announces the new KAOSS PAD V, a reimagined evolution of its expressive touch-based effects platform, designed for the way musicians, producers, performers, and content creators work today. Building on the iconic KAOSS approach, the new unit arrives as a powerful real-time sound manipulation tool for vocalists, instrumentalists, producers, and performers delivering an advanced dual-touch control surface with expanded effects and sampling on stage, in the studio, and in streaming environments today by reacting instantly to gestures, shaping sound through intuitive touch interaction, and integrating seamlessly into contemporary setups.
The KAOSS PAD V centers on a redesigned touch interface capable of responding to two simultaneous gestures, allowing users to control paired parameters at once and create evolving textures, layered movement, and dynamic transitions in real time. Filter and delay, pitch and reverb, modulation and feedback, and many other combinations become fluid, tactile musical expressions rather than static settings, helping performances feel more alive and interactive.
Connectivity and integration play a key role in this new generation. KAOSS PAD V supports MIC, LINE, and USB inputs simultaneously, enabling vocals, instruments, and computer audio to blend into a unified performance system. A balanced microphone preamp ensures clean vocal input, while a dedicated high-impedance input allows electric guitars and basses to connect directly without added hardware. An integrated USB audio interface streamlines recording, processing, and streaming, making it equally suited to DAW workflows, livestream setups, and headphone monitoring. A newly designed power circuit and refined audio path support low-noise, stable operation whether used in performance venues, studios, or creative spaces anywhere music is made.

Vocal creativity takes a significant step forward with the new Voice FX engine, providing harmonies, vocoder-style layers, pitch-morphed tonal shaping, and expressive textures applied in real time. The platform even allows users to control external MIDI equipment with their voice, opening distinctive performance possibilities that extend beyond traditional effects processing.
Guitarists and bassists also gain a powerful new performance partner. With direct connection via the dedicated high-impedance input, KAOSS PAD V offers fingertip-controlled ambient swells, rhythmic modulation, time-based glitch elements, atmospheric reverbs, and other expressive textures, all shaped by movement across the pad rather than menu navigation or fixed parameter adjustment.

Sampling and looping are built directly into the creative workflow. Users can capture up to eight bars depending on tempo, overdub layers as they perform, keep precise loop positioning during playback, and keep performances rhythmically grounded through BPM-synced Step Hold operation. Multiple playback and slicing options support creative rearrangement, making KAOSS PAD V a capable tool for remixing, live improvisation, and evolving pattern creation.
Honoring its lineage while expanding its scope, KAOSS PAD V provides access to a curated range of classic KAOSS effects alongside refreshed modern processing, from filters, delays, reverbs, and modulation to advanced voice shaping and contemporary textures. Users can further refine their sound using onboard editing tools, tailoring parameters, creating customized variations, saving personal presets directly to the device, and even adjusting pad-LED color and program behavior to suit their workflow. With 300 total programs available - 200 factory presets and 100 user location - plus support for external SD or SDHC cards, the platform balances immediacy with depth.

Compact, robust, and designed for real-time expression, KAOSS PAD V measures 210 mm wide by 226 mm deep by 49 mm high and weighs approximately 1.3 kg (excluding power supply). It includes RCA line input and output connections, balanced/unbalanced MIC/GUITAR input, headphone output, MIDI In/Out, USB connectivity, and ships with an AC adapter and Quick Start Guide. Operating stability from 0 to +40°C ensures reliability across environments.
With KAOSS PAD V, Korg advances the KAOSS concept into a new era, keeping the immediacy and visual interaction that made the series a staple while deepening control, expanding sonic capability, and aligning the platform with today’s creative demands.
For more information, please visit NAMM Booth #6802 or online at www.korg.com.

Street Price: $649.99 USD

Melbourne Instruments announces advanced Logic Pro integration for ROTO-CONTROL

video upload by Melbourne Instruments

Roto-Control (Review): A Logic Pro Controller I Actually Want to Use

video upload by Why Logic Pro Rules

"I was skeptical when ‪@melbourneinstruments‬ sent me Roto-Control for Logic Pro. I've owned plenty of MIDI controllers that ended up collecting dust. But after using this for the past month, I actually reach for it.

What makes it different? Eight fully motorized control knobs with haptic feedback that adapt to whatever you're focused on in Logic Pro. You don't just see parameters change on screen - you FEEL them. End stops on a filter cutoff, notches on discrete values, center indents for faders, pans, and more.

In this review, I walk through the Logic Pro integration, the haptic feedback system, and what it's actually like to use day-to-day. I also cover the real limitations - manual plugin mapping and limited storage - that you need to know before buying."

Press release follows:

Melbourne Instruments announces advanced Logic Pro integration for ROTO-CONTROL motorised software and hardware MIDI controller

MELBOURNE, VIC, AUSTRALIA: Melbourne Instruments is proud to announce availability of advanced Logic Pro integration for its ROTO-CONTROL motorised software and hardware MIDI controller — creatively expanding upon its successful integration with Ableton Live and Bitwig Studio, demand for integration with Apple’s popular professional DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) for Mac having been strong since said controller launched to widespread critical acclaim a year ago — as of January 15, 2026…

ROTO-CONTROL readily packs eight touch-sensitive motorised knobs — brushless drone motors with Melbourne Instruments’ patented ultra-high-resolution contactless optical sensors offering a lifetime rating in excess of 50 million cycles that equates to 500 times more than conventional pots, precisely — alongside nine high-resolution IPS (In-Plane Switching) LCDs (Liquid Crystal Displays) and 16 backlit RGB (Red, Green, Blue) LED (Light-Emitting Diode) buttons into its classy, compact — 341mm/13.4” (W) x 112mm/4.4” (D) x 44mm/1.7” (H) — form factor to duly deliver haptic feedback and instant parameter recall, communicating with the outside world via MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) over USB (Universal Serial Bus) and 5-pin MIDI DIN (Deutsches Institut für Normung) IN/OUT/THRU connections. Constructed out of ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) and metal, it robustly weighs in at only 715g/1.58lb, making it the perfect portable production partner for encouraging artists to use sound and music in new and exciting ways — wherever their journey might end up taking them, both creatively and geographically. Get this, though: ROTO-CONTROL now introduces a fully-tactile, motorised workflow to Logic Pro, delivering fast, hands-on control of tracks, plug-ins, Smart Controls, and automation — all thanks to a new firmware update.

MIX mode mirrors Logic Pro’s session track names, colours, and order automatically, while providing high-resolution control of volume, pan, sends, and automation alongside instant access to track selection, paging, mute/solo/arm switching, and dedicated TRACK FOCUS.

Fast, powerful plug-in control comes courtesy of PLUGIN mode, allowing users to browse and select Logic Pro instrument and effect plug-ins instantly from ROTO-CONTROL using simple touch-and-learn mapping for any parameter, with up to eight pages of controls per plug-in stored directly on the device ready for any projects, plus bypass/select controls — all mappings being saved on ROTO-CONTROL and usable across all Logic Pro projects on any computer.

Cutting-edge control continues with Logic Pro’s Smart Controls being automatically mapped to ROTO-CONTROL, controlling up to 16 Smart Control parameters instantly — perfect for working with instruments, macros, and MIDI effects, available in both PLUGIN mode and the dedicated SMART mode itself.

And as if all that was not enough to be getting on with, ROTO-CONTROL can be used to customise labels, colours, haptics, and steps for each control, while integrated transport — play, stop, record, cycle, auto-punch, and playhead — controls are all accessible from any mode.

It is fair to say, then, that Logic Pro users owe it to themselves — and, ultimately, their sound and music — to consider making some space in their creative and physical world for ROTO-CONTROL. After all, motorised and morphing controls, instant recall, and intuitive hardware are only the beginning of their journeying.

ROTO-CONTROL is available to buy at its new North American price of $399.00 USD (excluding tax) in the USA and Canada, while its RRP (Recommended Retail Price) in Australia of $619.00 AU (including GST) and MSRP (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price) in the EU of €372.35 EUR (excluding VAT), MSRP in Japan/Asia of $469.00 USD, and MSRP in the UK of £389.00 GBP remains unchanged — all via Melbourne Instruments’ growing global network of dealers here: https://www.melbourneinstruments.com/dealers [check with dealers on the right here on MATRIXSYNTH]

For more in-depth information, please visit the dedicated ROTO-CONTROL webpage here: https://www.melbourneinstruments.com/rotocontrol

The new (3.0.1) firmware update for ROTO-CONTROL with Logic Pro integration is downloadable for free from here: https://www.melbourneinstruments.com/roto

Introducing KORG Collection - Filter Ark: A new world of classic and modern filter design

video upload by Korg

"Collection - Filter Ark is now available.

By combining faithfully modelled classic filters with newly developed modern designs, and giving you powerful ways to combine and modulate them, Filter Ark becomes a deep, expressive environment for contemporary sound design."

"A new world of classic and modern filter design

For decades, the KORG Collection series has recreated KORG’s most iconic instruments using CMT (Component Modeling Technology), preserving the sound and character that shaped generations of synthesis. Filter Ark builds on that foundation and takes it further, placing the filter at the centre of the creative process. By combining faithfully modelled classic filters with newly developed modern designs, and giving you powerful ways to combine and modulate them, Filter Ark becomes a deep, expressive environment for contemporary sound design.

Combine up to four legendary filters at once to unlock sound design possibilities that were previously out of reach. Stack multiple iconic filters, blend vintage character with newly designed filter types, and build complex signal paths that evolve over time. With a powerful modulation system including LFOs, an Envelope Follower, and a Step Sequencer, Filter Ark gives you the tools to create movement, depth, and expression far beyond traditional filtering.

Faithfully modeled legendary filters

At the heart of Filter Ark are the filters that helped define the sound of synthesizer history. From the raw drive of the MS-20 and the smooth sweeps of the Polysix, to the warm thickness of the miniKORG 700s and the sharp resonance of the ARP ODYSSEY, these iconic designs are faithfully recreated with exceptional accuracy.

Each filter features its original user interface, allowing you to shape classic tones intuitively while preserving the distinctive character and response of the instruments that made them legendary.


Innovative modern filter types

Filter Ark also introduces a new generation of modern filter designs. Newly developed types include physically modelled resonators and a vowel filter that simulates human vocal formants, expanding the creative possibilities far beyond classic approaches. These filters invite experimentation and open up distinctive new ways to shape sound, from subtle tonal colour to highly expressive and unconventional textures.


Flexible routing with up to four filters

Flexible routing sits at the core of Filter Ark’s design. Combine up to four filters in series, parallel, feedback, and other configurations to build signal paths that simply aren’t possible with conventional filter plug-ins. Whether you’re shaping subtle tonal detail or creating complex, evolving effects, the routing architecture encourages exploration and rewards experimentation. Ready-made routing templates are also included, providing a clear starting point while still leaving room to go deep.


A unique and powerful modulation system

Filter Ark features a flexible modulation system designed to bring movement and expression to your sound. It includes a morphable LFO, an Envelope Follower with side-chain input, a customisable Step Sequencer with adjustable steps and playback modes, and a Random Generator. Together, these modulation sources make it easy to create evolving textures, rhythmic motion, and dynamic response that go far beyond static filtering."

For more information:
https://www.korg.com/us/products/soft...

Purchase the new KORG Collection - Filter Ark at the KORG Shop:
https://korg.shop/korg-collection-fil..."

The most innovative keyboard in the history of analog synthesizers Coming From Moon Modular in 2026

via Moon Modular

"An eventful 2025 is coming to an end, a year with incredible results.

After approximately 1.5 years of “analyzing, researching, speculating, searching, finding, trying out...”, we have relaunched the first MOON module and laid the foundations for further modules.

The most innovative keyboard in the history of analog synthesizers will be launched in 2026 after three years of development, heralding the start of our MOOG 3.0 vision.

Our new rack instrument business segment has established itself very well and has already contributed significantly to our results this year with the BODE SW 8101 BODE Barberpole Phaser and BODE 735 Frequency Shifter devices.

All of this is presented on a new website with three product lines...

PURE R.A. MOOG

All MOOG MODULAR classics, including all MOOG systems.

MOON MODULAR

The MOON Modular product portfolio.

BODE SOUND CO.

New, partly unreleased products by Harald Bode will be added to the BARBERPOLE PHASER and FREQUENCY SHIFTER in 2026, further expanding the collaboration with the ZKM and the Karlsruhe University of Music.

Many thanks to everyone who has supplied us, sold our products, and supported us!

I wish you and your families a wonderful Christmas and a hopefully more peaceful 2026!

Your SYNTH-WERK team Gerhard, Marcus, Markus, and Thomas

'There is an extremely powerful force for which science has not yet found a formula. It is a force that encompasses all others, regulates them, and is even behind every phenomenon that is active in the universe and has not yet been identified by us. This universal force is LOVE.'

Albert Einstein"

Ambient Drift Demo - Ableton Move/Live Sound Pack by A Force Truly Evil

video upload by A Force Truly Evil

"Available here: https://sci-fiaudio.com/?product=ambi...
AMBIENT IN ITS MOST BEAUTIFUL EXPRESSION: DRIFT AT ITS MOST EXPRESSIVE, ORGANIC AND LIVING

Ambient Drift showcases Drift in its most beautiful and organic expression. A complete two-in-one sound pack for Ableton Move and Ableton Live, it features 79 living, expressive patches with deep velocity response, 15 polished demo sets, and a fully installable Ableton Live Pack Project that includes the same instruments, samples, and drum kits, plus the demo sets specifically arranged for Ableton Live, offering a more in-depth production workflow. With 264 versatile samples, 17 flexible drum kits, and patches designed to feel alive and responsive to your touch, Ambient Drift is ideal for ambient, electronica downtempo, chill out, and beyond — delivering expressive depth and expanded creative flexibility across Move, Live, Push, and Ableton Note.

LONG DESCRIPTION

Ambient Drift is a sound pack that brings Drift to life in its most beautiful, organic, and expressive form. Every patch has been carefully crafted to feel alive, dynamic, and responsive, making each performance unique and full of movement. Thanks to its extreme velocity sensitivity and expressive modulation assignments, each preset reacts naturally to your playing in real time.

By enabling or disabling Full Velocity, you can instantly access two distinctly different sound characters within a single patch, greatly expanding expressive and performance possibilities without changing presets.

This pack is ideal for ambient, chill out, cinematic textures, and electronica downtempo music, but its versatility goes much further. Thanks to the depth of the drum kits, rhythmic possibilities, and the ability to tweak Drift parameters directly inside Ableton Move or Live, Ambient Drift can be adapted to virtually any genre.

WHAT’S INCLUDED — ABLETON MOVE VERSION

79 highly expressive Drift patches
Pads, polys, basses, arps, drones, and leads — all designed to feel organic, evolving, and deeply musical.

8 arps
16 basses
35 pads / atmospheres
18 polys
2 leads
1 drone

CLICK FOR MORE »

Modular Patch Walkthrough Pt.2 | Expanding the Buchla/Tiptop Patch

video upload by VoxModula Archives

Part 1 here

"I continue developing the patch from the previous video, expanding the sequencing, modulation, and timbral variations using a Buchla/Tiptop modular system driven by the Arturia Keystep.

The session remains fully improvised, with real-time explanations while shaping the sound and exploring new directions from the existing patch.

🎛️ Gear used
• Tiptop Buchla modular system
• Arturia Keystep – sequencer
• Various modulation and utility modules

🎧 What’s explored
• Patch continuation and development
• Expanded sequencing and modulation
• Live sound shaping and structure
• Real-time explanation of patch changes"

F*ck With Sound ships Break On Through and Bring It On Eurorack Modules

Press release follows:

F*ck With Sound ships Break On Through and Bring It On, debuting dedicated DACS Audio brand with extraordinary Eurorack modules living up to noteworthy name

GATESHEAD, TYNE AND WEAR, UK: having opened ears in October when debuting during the Bristol, UK-hosted Machina Bristronica 2025 event showcasing electronic music culture and technology, dedicated DACS Audio brand F*ck With Sound is proud to ship Break On Through and Bring It On — opening an absorbing new chapter in the award-winning high-performance, well-engineered product producer’s four-decade-spanning design and manufacturing history with a FET distortion unit (based on an extension of what was originally a microphone level limiter) and a ring modulator boasting a super-smooth sound, really low breakthrough, and switchable WEIGHT and EDGE controls (which will both be familiar to users of DACS Audio’s legacy FwS FREQue, much-lauded as a 2U rack-mount, two-channel ring modulator outboard effect), respectively, representing extraordinary Eurorack modules living up to the newly-launched brand’s noteworthy name — as of December 15…

As a FET distortion unit based on an extension of what was originally a microphone limiter, the basic circuit behind F*ck With Sound’s Break On Through module has been used — and abused! — by producers for years, more recently emulated as a plug-in, before being effectively adapted to join the ranks of the ever-expanding Eurorack marketplace. Maintains DACS Audio Managing Director Dr Douglas Doherty: “After reading about Soundtoys’ Devil-Loc plug-in, I was intrigued. We were looking for a distortion unit to go in a mic pre under development. I had heard about Tchad Blake’s work with the original Shure Level-Loc — particularly on drums, and this seemed like a bit of serendipity that had to be acted upon! The perfect fit. In the end, we didn’t proceed with the mic pre, but it was clear that this would be ideal for modular system users.”

Bringing Break On Through to market as a 14HP-sized Eurorack module — based on a classic analogue microphone limiter design that was, according to legend, hijacked by an electronics-savvy record producer, and used on numerous records for ‘breaking through’ with drums and percussion, particularly — was easier said than done, however. “As always, there were many hurdles,” admits Dr Douglas Doherty, before continuing: “The original circuit was for microphones, so it had to be upped for line level; it was single voltage rail, so had to be adapted for dual voltage rail; the interaction of the threshold and input gain needed some tweaking; and we wanted to adjust the release. After a few prototypes, we arrived at the current unit, which is very responsive and versatile. Control-wise, it has an input gain [IN GAIN] and a threshold setting, which we call BREAK; as well as the manual BREAK control, there is also a CV input [IN] to modulate the threshold. There is a variable RELEASE control that can produce some very interesting results, depending on the nature of the input. On the output, we also have gain [OUT GAIN], and a CV input [IN] to modulate the output level [GAIN MOD].”

Musically speaking, the end result “…is a brick wall limiter that can — by upping the input level — be pushed into distortion,” describes Dr Douglas Doherty, justifiably proud of the fact that F*ck With Sound successfully upgraded and updated the circuit concerned to produce a colouring block with a vast pallet. “With dynamic material such as drums, it can be set for only peaks to distort — the rest remaining clean. That quality was commented upon by a couple of distortion aficionados atMachina Bristronica.” Break On Through features — hitherto unmentioned — worth highlighting here include: LED indication for distortion; solid metal sleeve jacks for longevity and stability; and custom DACS Audio aluminium knobs.

CLICK FOR MORE »

X1L3 Shard Harsh Noise Generator - Yellow Model

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

via this eBay listing

You can find demos in previous posts here.

"This is the Shard harsh noise generator — a boutique power-electronics / industrial sound device known for its aggressive textures, chaotic oscillators, and fully manual performance controls.

A favorite among harsh noise, PE, drone, and experimental sound artists, Shard units are highly sought after due to their unusual interface and raw sonic power.

The panel includes multiple oscillators, pitch controls, gates, chaos switches, atrophy charge pads, and external input options for expanding or processing noise in real time. Great for standalone improvisation, modular interaction, or adding harsh layers to audio work.

⸻

Features:
• Multiple oscillators with individual pitch controls
• Patchable ports for expanded routing
• Dedicated chaos & atrophy switches
• Gate pads for manual noise triggering
• External input for additional audio processing
• Rugged metal enclosure
• Runs on 9V power (battery or adapter)
• Perfect for harsh noise, PE, dark ambient, and experimental sound design"

CLICK FOR MORE »

Moog Introduces Messenger Preset Editor

video upload by Moog Music

"Meet the Moog Messenger Preset Editor — a powerful new software tool for enhanced sound design and preset management.

This free desktop editor/librarian gives Messenger owners full visual control, deeper sound design tools, and effortless preset management… all without changing the classic hands-on Moog workflow. Whether you’re shaping patches on the hardware, dialing in precise values on-screen, or managing your entire preset library, the Messenger Preset Editor keeps everything perfectly in sync.

Alongside the editor, we’ve also released Messenger Firmware version 1.0.13, which is required to use the new app. This update introduces expressive features like duophonic mode and assignable modulation wheel control, expanding Messenger’s creative possibilities.

Learn more about the Messenger Preset Editor: https://inmusic.to/3kzvupb9"

Meet Osmose 61

video upload by Expressive E

Check with dealers on the right for availability.

"🎹 Meet Osmose 61
The new 61-key version of the Osmose adds an extra octave for more freedom to explore, compose, and perform ✨. A fully expressive keybed lets you press, bend, glide, and shape sounds naturally, whether as a standalone synth or controller."

osmose 49/61 - the ultimate expressive synthesizer

video upload by Expressive E

"Discover Osmose, the new standard for musical expressivity — now available in 49 and 61 keys! 🎹
Experience a new level of musical freedom with intuitive gestures that let you press, bend, shake, strum, and shape sound like never before. Whether you’re a seasoned keyboardist, a workflow-driven producer, or a bold sound designer, Osmose will take your creativity to uncharted places.

Choose between the compact 49-key version or the extended 61-key model for more range and comfort. Both deliver the same unmatched expressive experience. 🤍

49/61-key gesture-sensitive keybed (semi-weighted)
Custom expressive sound engine (by Haken Audio)
More than 500 presets with custom macros
Built-in Effects: Reverb, Delay, Compressor/Drive/2 convolution engines, pre & post reverb/delay, EQ
External MIDI control w/classic & MPE keyboard configurations
Large color screen & ergonomic UI
Built-in MPE arpeggiator & innovative glide control
Custom sensitivity controls
Sleek & rugged design

Everything you need to know about Osmose: https://www.expressivee.com/2-osmose"

"Take your expression further than ever before with the Osmose 61, an expanded range version of Expressive E's advanced MPE keyboard synthesizer and controller. Adding another octave to Osmose, this 61-key version provides ample room for a wider range of melodic and harmonic playing, supporting two hand performance with plenty of room for dynamic performance across the Osmose's uniquely capable 3D keybed. Beyond this expanded range, the Osmose 61 delivers every innovation that made the original 49-key version a mainstay for musicians around the world. Deep control with MPE-enabled keys that add nuance to every touch, premium build quality, and the vastly powerful EaganMatrix synth engine are all at your fingertips, now with even more room to make your musical mark.

Now built in Expressive E's Polish manufacturing center, the Osmose 61 offers a premium standard for build quality, ensuring an uncompromising experience that's built to last. From rich and velvety acoustic tones to daring and dreamy synth patches, the EaganMatrix engine under the hood is your window to a world of captivating expression, now with an optimized interface for intuitive sound design and control. Physical modeling, FM, classic subtractive synthesis, and so much more are at the ready, bending deftly to every keypress, lateral wobble, and aftertouch press for a playing experience akin to the nuanced feel of acoustic instruments. Expressive E's mighty MPE control goes beyond even this core sound engine, readily expanding with Expressive E's software ecosystem of original and third-party developed sound libraries, proprietary instruments, and more. Whether you're using the Osmose 61 as a dedicated performance instrument or integrating its powerful expressive features into your DAW workflow, the Osmose never misses a beat to empower your creative vision.

If you're ready to dive into a lifetime of expressive control, the Osmose 61 is here to offer a dedicated platform for performance and control that's designed to grow with you. Twenty-four voices of polyphony, built-in effects, and 580 factory presets with 2048 slots for saving your own creations provide a deep well of musical possibilities to explore right out of the box, while the powerful engine, expanded software ecosystem, and premium build ensure a lifetime of sonic exploration. For MPE mastery without limits, look to the Osmose 61 from Expressive E.

OSMOSE 61 FEATURES

61-key MPE keyboard synthesizer and controller

3D keybed provides deep expressive control

Gestural controls include press, pitch bend, vibrato, aftertouch, pressure glide, and note off control

Expressive arpeggiator for nuanced sequence performance

EaganMatrix sound engine by Haken Audio enables vast sound design options with physical modeling, FM, subtractive, and more

24 voices of polyphony

Built-in effects processing

Intuitive interface with color LCD screen, 6 encoders, pitch and mod sliders, and octave & preset buttons

Expanded ecosystem of sounds and synths made specifically for Osmose by Expressive E and third-party partnerships for limitless sound exploration

MIDI input, output, and thru

USB type B connectivity for direct DAW control

2x continuous pedal inputs for sustain or parameter control

Balanced audio outputs for professional sound on stage and in the studio"

CLICK FOR MORE »

Roland Introduces ZENOLOGY GX - Next-gen ZEN

Overview video upload by RolandChannel

"ZENOLOGY GX brings the full power of Roland’s ZEN-Core Synthesis System into GALAXIAS, giving you access to over 11,000 tones—from iconic vintage synths to cutting-edge hybrids. Explore the massive library of sounds or build your own from scratch using the same engine found in flagship instruments like FANTOM and JUPITER-X.

ZENOLOGY GX also includes a powerful browser to help you stay organized. Search, rate, and recall presets with ease. Each tone is built from up to four partials, each with its own oscillator, filter, amplifier, dual LFOs, and effects. Shape your sound with over 90 effects, including spacious reverbs, classic Roland choruses, and more.

Inside GALAXIAS, ZENOLOGY GX becomes a super instrument. Layer up to four instances, assign key ranges, apply per-layer effects, and use creative tools like ARPS and CHORDS to build massive Scenes. You can also export your sounds to ZENOLOGY Pro or compatible ZEN-Core hardware."

00:00 Intro Overview
00:44 Immersive Mode
00:58 Sounds View for Presets
01:15 Auditioning Sounds
01:28 Tweaking Presets
02:05 Synth Engine
02:33 Filter Section
02:50 Mix Section
03:10 Step Editor and Step LFOs
03:40 Mod Tab
04:04 FX Section
04:51 GALAXIAS Capabilities
05:36 Chord Sequencer
06:31 Try ZENOLOGY GX



Additional details from Roland:

WELCOME TO THE MOTHERSHIP.

GALAXIAS brings 50 years of legendary Roland synths and drum machines together into one powerful Super Instrument. Access thousands of iconic sounds and freely combine authentic Roland instruments from vintage to modern. Explore supermassive GALAXIAS Scenes filled with intricate layers and deep macro controls. And discover exciting new worlds with infinite creative possibilities.

Legendary instruments. Iconic sounds.

Roland has been a pioneer in music technology for over half a century, delivering a continuous stream of influential instruments and effects that have fueled countless hits, defined genres, and driven cultural trends. With GALAXIAS, you can now explore and experience them all in one creative environment. From historic icons such as the JUPITER-8, TR-808, and D-50 to modern instruments like ZENOLOGY GX and SYSTEM-8, GALAXIAS harnesses Roland’s evolving sonic legacy within a single intuitive workflow.

A voyage of discovery.

Choose from your favorite Roland synths and drum machines, search specific sound types, or mine the ever-expanding collection of over 25,000 sounds to spark new ideas and build compelling tracks. GALAXIAS puts unlimited albums’ worth of inspiration at your command—from vintage sounds to futuristic hybrid tones—with more added each month.

Roland Super Instrument.

GALAXIAS lets you layer up to four instruments to create massive sonic superclusters called Scenes. Build an intricate setup of your favorite Roland instruments, such as a full stack of JUPITER and JUNO synths, or multiple eras of TR drum machines locked in perfect sync. Dial in an arpeggiator pattern (or four), quickly define key ranges and macro controls, and then play the whole thing as a single instrument in the studio or on stage.

Next-gen ZEN.

Seamlessly integrated into GALAXIAS, ZENOLOGY GX delivers over 11,000 genre-defining Roland sounds in one powerful instrument. Layer up to four instances with definable key ranges, sophisticated macro controls, per-layer effects, and creative tools like ARPS and CHORDS. Explore the vast collection of presets or craft your own using 23 authentic oscillator and filter models, over 7,000 PCM waveforms, 11 LFO shapes—including a versatile Step LFO for rhythmic movement—and 90+ effects. From studio to stage, ZENOLOGY GX puts limitless sonic potential at your fingertips.

Effectively awesome.

In addition to the formidable effects within each individual instrument, GALAXIAS gives you two insert effects per layer and two global send effects. Choose from the growing collection of authentic Roland and BOSS effects and take your sounds to new frontiers. You can also route layers to external outputs or channels in your DAW for further processing.

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Oberheim OB-1 V1 rare early SEM Version - PRO RESTORATION with new Tauntek CPU Board SN 0063

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

via this Reverb listing

Pics of the inside below.

"Just serviced by the very talented Vintage Standards in Japan October 2025. In my opinion top 3 techs in the world. PSU replaced, every pot disassembled cleaned and re lubricated, crucial caps replaced, tropical fish caps still in perfect condition, brand new Tauntek CPU board installed to keep it reliable for much longer than the original and expanding its memory to 64, uses through hole and modern components for longevity and serviceability. Crucial trimmers replaced to keep tuning and voltage stable. Keyboard cleaned and bushings replaced. Literally everything you need to do to these to keep them going for another 50 years reliably. This is the early SEM version that uses the same discrete VCA as the SEM instead of the chip based version most of them have which is more like the OB-X, love the way these SEM envelopes react. Sound is incredible and it's so awesome having instant preset recall on a SEM and a great interface to control it. These will only go up in value and im only selling because I recently obtained an TVS and its a bit over kill to have both (although awesome having a 3 voice). Selling at a loss already so please be considerate if making an offer."

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Yamaha Introduces New MODX M Series of Synthesizers

video uploads by Yamaha Synths Official

Playlist:

1. Yamaha | MODX M | Elevate Expression Everywhere - Official Overview
2. Yamaha | MODX M | Sound Demo - Hear the Future of Expression

"Discover the new Yamaha MODX M Series, a next-generation synthesizer that elevates sound, control, and creativity for musicians everywhere.

Building on the DNA of our flagship MONTAGE M, MODX M delivers expressive performance and a professional workflow in a compact, lightweight design. Built for stage, studio, and beyond.

🎹 Key Features:
• Three powerful engines: AN-X (vintage analog), FM-X (modern digital), AWM2 (realistic acoustic instruments)
• Motion Control Synthesis: Shape sound in real time with the Super Knob, Motion Sequences & Envelope Follower
• High-resolution control: Smooth faders, knobs, and key response for ultimate expression
• Expanded Softsynth Plugin (E.S.P.): A virtual version of MODX M for your DAW (available early 2026)
• Compact, portable design: Perfect for working musicians on the move

🎧 Designed to inspire, wherever your music takes you."


Yamaha MODX M Synthesizer w/ KRAFT Music
video uploads by Kraft Music

Playlist:

1. Yamaha MODX M Synthesizer - Advanced Tutorial with Blake Angelos

Great bundle deals on the Yamaha MODX M music synthesizer:
https://kraftmusic.com/collections/ya...

Blake Angelos from Yamaha visits Kraft Music to present the MODX M music synthesizer.

00:00 Into
00:44 The DNA of flagship Montage M
01:29 Display knobs
02:21 Keyboard hold
03:50 Control matrix
04:36 Page jump
06:05 Sound engine
06:28 CFX piano samples
08:06 Keyboard action
10:12 Scenes and orchestral voices
14:19 Super Knob
17:24 Organs and rotary speaker
21:31 Trailer Toys
22:20 Smart Morph
27:17 Motion sequence
32:37 Computer integration
33:54 ESP plug-in synth
38:54 Signing off

2. Yamaha MODX M Synthesizer - All Playing, No Talking with Blake Angelos

loopop Review: Yamaha MODX M vs MODX+: vs Montage M // Everything you need to know M6/M7/M8

video upload by loopop

"Yamaha has taken the brains in its flagship synth Montage M, and put it in a much less expensive package. Here are the details and comparison to MODX+ and Montage M

Get plenty of multi-samples for it, and my In-Complete Book of Electronic Music Ideas, Tips and Tricks ► Patreon: / loopop"

Here's a timeline of the video:

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Roland MC-303 | 160BPM DNB

video upload by Akihiko Matsumoto

"MC-303 Sample Pack Link: https://akihikomatsumoto.sellfy.store...

Contents:
256 Drum Oneshots
38 Stabs
16 Stab Loops
65 Telequencer Loops
39 Lead Loops
24 DNB Drum Loops
78 Original Drum Loops
32 UKG Drum Loops
27 Original Bass Loops
16 UKG Bass Loops
48 AKAI Processed UKG Drum Loops
16 Jungle808 Bass Loops (New!2025/10/3)
12 Ambient DNB Pad Loops (New!2025/10/3)
28 160BPM Drumnbass Drum Loops (New!2025/10/3)
294 Oneshots / 297 Loops

Vintage groovebox charm reimagined for today’s electronic producers.
xemptyz
This sample pack is a tribute to the iconic Roland MC-303, a machine that helped define the DIY electronic sound of the late 1990s. Originally released as an all-in-one groovebox, the MC-303 offered a bold vision for accessible music-making, with digital tones that felt futuristic yet playful. Even if you have never used the original hardware, this pack brings its spirit to life through carefully curated sounds designed for modern workflows.
xemptyz

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Crow Hill & Bleeding Fingers Proudly Present PREHISTORIC STRINGS Library

video upload by CROW HILL

Press release follows:

The Crow Hill Company works with Bleeding Fingers to proudly present PREHISTORIC STRINGS as unique string library built from bespoke instruments

EDINBURGH, UK: working with award-winning composers collective Bleeding Fingers, Edinburgh-based enterprise The Crow Hill Company is proud to present PREHISTORIC STRINGS as a truly unique string library — literally built from one-of-a-kind bespoke instruments incorporating horns and teeth with a few ancient bones thrown in for good measure, making for hybrid monstrosities to create tones that are haunting, primordial, and staggeringly beautiful in their truly primitive nature — as of September 25…

Putting PREHISTORIC STRINGS into its rightful perspective involves delving deep into the past in more ways than one — not least The Crow Hill Company’s ongoing relationship with its collective friends at Bleeding Fingers. For it all started when the latter’s talented Anže Rozman and Kara Talve worked with Hollywood hotshot Hans Zimmer — arguably one of the greatest, certainly one of the most prolific film composers of our time, noted for his innovative integration of electronic sounds with traditional orchestral arrangements — on the primetime television series Prehistoric Planet (2022-2025). As always with both Bleeding Fingers’ and Hans Zimmer’s approach to composition, the creation of truly unique sound-worlds played a fundamental role in the development of said score. An audacious project, indeed, it involved the construction of a selection of string instruments built with bones, horns, skulls, and cannibalised classical instruments, including a cello, frame drum, resonating dulcimer, and many more besides. But credit where credit’s due to the killer composing team involved in instinctively understanding that the resulting score’s success merely represented the tip of the iceberg in terms of the potential of their unique inventions and agreeing to share them with the rest of the composing community.

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Ali Modular enters Eurorack marketplace with Esu’s Trifecta

video uploads by Ali Modular

Playlist:

1. Esu's Trifecta Feature Overview
2. Esu's Trifecta Sound Demo
3. Esu's Trifecta Sound Demo 2
4. Lets transform this Melody and Bass Line using Esu's Trifecta.

Also see: LiveStream Synth Explorations : Esu's Trifecta by Ali Modular

Press release follows:

Ali Modular enters Eurorack marketplace with Esu’s Trifecta available as powerful multi-effects module with Triple FX engine

WASHINGTON, DC, USA: deep joy-encouraging Eurorack module-maker Ali Modular is proud to announce availability of Esu’s Trifecta — readily representing its inaugural entry into the ever-expanding Eurorack marketplace as a powerful multi-effects module, albeit one which stands out from the sound of the crowd courtesy of an ability to run three different serial effects at the same time, thanks to the Triple FX engine driving its intuitive tools that unlock new ways to shape sound and manage the creative process — as of October 2…

As a powerful stereo multi-effects Eurorack module, Esu’s Trifecta is designed to be the ultimate tool for manipulating, shaping, and transforming sound, duly delivering creative possibilities for musicians, live performers, and sound designers alike — whether used as an all-round sound manipulator, end-of-chain effects processor, or sound design tool. Digging deeper, Esu’s Trifecta draws its essence from an orisha — orishas being divine spirits that play a key role in the Yoruba religion of West Africa and several religions of the African diaspora that derive from it — called Èṣù, the mischievous trickster and guardian of the crossroads, who works to promote balance, order, and harmony, ultimately, despite being known for bringing confusion and unpredictability. It is fair to say that this ethos is effectively embedded deeply into the module’s design. As a result, Esu’s Trifecta creates opportunities for unpredictable sonic exploration while providing the tools to mould sound into harmony and order. On the face of it, the module itself opens up limitless pathways for creativity and sound sculpting — just as Èṣù signifies infinite possibilities.

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The Crow Hill Company Adds Roland CR-78 Based RHYTHM MACHINE to VAULTS

video upload by CROW HILL

"Step back to 1978 and discover the iconic Roland CR-78, the first programmable drum machine that changed the way artists approached rhythm. Before the 808 and modern drum machines, the CR-78 gave musicians the power to create and store their own drum patterns. In the hands of artists like Phil Collins, Peter Gabriel, and Blondie, it became iconic. For this Vault, we’ve preserved the much-loved character of the CR-78 and expanded its sonic potential with some tasteful effects."

https://thecrowhillcompany.com/free/

Press release follows:

The Crow Hill Company creates …RHYTHM MACHINE as latest free VAULTS… VI, preserving vintage classic’s character while expanding its sonic potential

EDINBURGH, UK: The Crow Hill Company is proud to announce availability of VAULTS - RHYTHM MACHINE as its latest VI (Virtual Instrument) release ready for all to download and make music with for free for the rest of their lives — literally preserving Roland’s 1978-vintage CR-78 CompuRhythm’s classic character as the Japanese giant of electronic musical instrument manufacturing’s first programmable drum machine (that changed the way artists approached rhythm and, in doing so, stamped its musical mark on a number of notable hit records that subsequently secured its iconic status in the annals of music technology history for all eternity), effectively expanding its sonic potential with some tasteful effects as a result — as of October 1…

Far from stretching the boundaries of truth, it is fair to say that the introduction of Roland’s CR-78 CompuRhythm changed the course of history as the first computer-controlled programmable drum machine. Most rhythm machines before its late-1978 introduction were preset-only affairs, forcing their users to pick from the likes of ‘Bossa Nova’, ‘Rock’, and ‘Waltz’ — more in keeping with the home organ-orientated terminology of the time. The CR-78, however, offered something new — namely, an ability to program rhythm patterns and store them in memory using the external WS-1 programmer optionally offered by Roland. Indeed, its 14 onboard instruments include bass drum, cymbals, hi-hats, rimshot, snare drum, and tambourine alongside several Latin-type sounds, such as bongos, claves, and cowbell — all generated using analogue circuits, giving it a distinctly warm, punchy character. Thanks to the CR-78’s analogue nature, though, the tempo control is not exactly surgical, but this foible only adds to its charm. And, as history has borne out, when placed in the creative musical hands of Blondie, Phil Collins, Peter Gabriel, and others, it became an iconic instrument in its own right.

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Automatic Musique Concrete Degeneration! | Make Noise

video upload by MAKEN0ISE

"Using the continuously expanding Iteration 3 Onomatopoiea Reel, we continue the 12-String Iterative Music Project with a patch that gradually destroys the Reel! But don't worry, we'll keep going!

The Iteration 3 Spreadsheet is still open for submissions if you'd like to add any sound to the Reel for a more composed piece next time:

https://drive.google.com/drive/folder...

http://www.makenoisemusic.com"

Adamsynths Warthog Modular Synth with Total Recall is Here

video uploads by Adamsynths

Playlist:

1. Adamsynths™ Warthog – Modular Music Miniatures

In this video, we present a series of short musical sketches, each created entirely with the Adamsynths™ Warthog modular synthesizer.

🎹 These compact compositions – each under a minute – showcase the expressive potential of Warthog patches in a musical context.

Adamsynths™ Warthog – where a patch is not just a moment, but a memory you can share.

Chapters
00:00 – Monkey – Rhythmic Pulse & Synced VCOs
00:29 – Bowland – Rhythmic Pulse & Synced VCOs
01:05 – Interstellar – The Magpie Lead
01:21 – Color TV - Keep calm and enjoy the Warthog

2. Adamsynths™ Warthog – Real Time Snapshot Switching & Morphing

In this video, we showcase two key features of the Total Recall system in the Adamsynths™ Warthog modular synthesizer: Snapshot and Snapshot Morph.

🎛️ Snapshots are switched with incredible speed in real time. Using the Mood Wheels, snapshots can be morphed into one another with refined transitions. This allows patches to continuously transform, generating new sonic textures through the movement of the control wheel.

⏱️ Chapters
00:00 – Spooky – Restless Modulation
00:31 – Lost in Matrix 1 – Groovy Break Bassline 1
01:08 – Lost in Matrix 2 – Groovy Break Bassline 2
01:46 – Jono's Organ - Celestial Drift
02:21 – Lost in Matrix 3 – Groovy Break Bassline 3

3. Adamsynths™ Warthog - Atmospheric Patches

🎧 In this video, we showcase a selection of patches from the Adamsynths™ Warthog modular synthesizer.

Expect:
🌌 Atmospheric textures
🐗 Analog basses
🔮 Modulated soundscapes

⏱️ Chapters
00:00 – Sacrifice Sequence – Audio Modulated VCF
00:47 – Horse – Pulse! Drive! Hypnosis!
01:26 – Low Pass Flight Object – Low-rate VCO, Morphing, Modulation
02:00 – Orbit – Talking Bass Moovement
02:32 – Rate & Cut - The Mating Call of Hogzilla alias Trufflorex

Press Release Follows:


Your Awaited Companion Has Arrived: Adamsynths™ Warthog, the first analog modular synthesizer with TOTAL RECALL Now Available for Pre-Order at Early-Bird Price

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