BE A BETTER MODULATOR // Understanding Eurorack Modulation with the Thonk TRIPLE MOD

video upload by DivKid

"In this video we’ll break down how common types of modulation for sound synthesis work, how to make the most of them creatively and musically. We’ll do so while demoing the new Triple Mod DIY module from Thonk. Whether it’s creating multi-phonic layered patches needed multiple envelopes, understanding how a Turing Machine works and performing with it, understanding and making Sample & Hold melodic, creating chain reactions with EOC ‘end of cycle’ triggers … there’s lots in this video applicable to LOTS of other modules."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Caveman Modules 3OSC Features

video upload by Michigan Synth Works

"This is a quick demo of the 3OSC VCO. 3 waveforms are available: the 303 Square, Saw, and Tri. The device also features a hard sync where you can sync two or more devices."

See the announcement post here.

Cherry Audio | Introducing Crumar Spirit with Tim Shoebridge

video upload by Cherry Audio

"Crumar Spirit by Cherry Audio captures the unique sound and features of the exceptional analog monosynth from 1983, originally designed by some of the most legendary figures in the synth industry. Spirit is a gateway to sonic experimentation. It is not a polite instrument. Nor is it clean, safe, or obvious. However, twist a few knobs and it will reward you with some of the most colorful sounds you have ever heard from a virtual analog software synthesizer.

https://cherryaudio.com/products/spir...

00:53 - Music Intro by Tim Shoebridge
02:05 - Introducing Crumar Spirit by Cherry Audio
03:28 - Spirit Signal Path
05:49 - Mod X
08:07 - The Oscillators
13:40 - The Filters
20:34 - Audio Mixer
21:14 - Shaper Y
26:20 - Arpeggiator
30:15 - Voice Modes and Multi-Voice Cycling
31:04 - Matrix Z Modulations
31:45 - Dual Effects Chain
34:42 - Conclusion"

Cherry Audio | Crumar Spirit

video upload by Cherry Audio

Cherry Audio | Spectres Preset Pack for Crumar Spirit by James Dyson

video upload by Cherry Audio

"100 additional presets for Cherry Audio's Crumar Spirit synthesizer by James Dyson that showcase its darker and more atmospheric side in nine categories. Explore more advanced modulations, integrated effects, rhythmic arpeggios, and aftertouch performance features.

Just $9.99, exclusively from https://store.cherryaudio.com/presets...

18 Arps
9 Basses
5 Brass
8 Chords
10 Keys
9 Leads
17 Pads
14 Polyphonic
10 SoundFX"

Crumar Spirit by Cherry Audio: The rare Spirit reborn! (Part 1)

video upload by CatSynth TV

"We are proud to preset the new Crumar Spirit by Cherry Audio, a meticulous software recreation of the unique, quirky and elusive Crumar Spirit analog synthesizer from the early 1980s. This is a two-part series. In Part 1 we go over most of the original-instrument features (minus the arpeggiator).

Part 2, covering the remaining features and exploring factory presets, will be released soon.

To find out more about Crumar Spriit by Cherry Audio, please visit: https://cherryaudio.com

00:00 Introduction
00:34 A brief history
01:54 Overview of Crumar Spirit by Cherry Audio
02:35 Oscillators
09:59 Upper filter
12:41 Lower filter
20:02 Noise generator
23:43 Shaper Y (and Shaper Y audio path)
33:24 Mod X
41:24 Conclusion"

Merch: https://shop.catsynth.com



Crumar Spirit by Cherry Audio is a meticulously crafted virtual recreation that captures the unique and captivating features of the exceptional analog monosynth from 1983, originally designed by some of the most legendary figures in the synth industry. In collaboration with Crumar, we have reopened a time capsule to revive this Italian cult classic and thoughtfully elevated it with Cherry Audio's signature style.

Spirit is a gateway to sonic experimentation, whether you are after wild, unpredictable timbres or warm, analog tones. It is not a polite instrument. Nor is it clean, safe, or obvious. However, twist a few knobs and it will reward you with some of the most colorful sounds you have ever heard from a virtual analog software synthesizer.

Crumar Spirit includes over 430 sensational presets in 12 categories

Producers will find immediate inspiration in Spirit's extensive preset library, created by a talented sound design team led by veteran sound designer James Terris. And don't miss the Spectres for Spirt Preset Pack (sold separately), featuring an additional 100 additional presets by James Dyson.


A "Little Synth" Designed by Legends

Crumar S.P.A., based in Castelfidardo, Italy, was a notable player in the 1970s musical instrument industry, specializing in home organs, digital pianos, and multi-sound keyboards, and with a significant focus on the U.S. market. Sante Crucianelli, the son of the owner, became the driving force behind Crumar's design and strategies. Crumar became known for its open lab culture, frequently allowing competitors to test instruments, a rare practice for the time. Another key figure during this period was Luciano Jura, a designer, musician, and programmer. Luciano became crucial as Crumar's point of contact with synth pioneer Bob Moog, which led to a collaboration that resulted in the creation of Crumar's Spirit synthesizer.

Although many details have been lost due to the passing of key figures and the closure of Crumar, the development of the Spirit synthesizer in the U.S. is well documented. Key contributors to the project, codenamed "Little Synth," included Moog engineer Jim Scott, Moog clinician and electronic music historian Tom Rhea, and Bob Moog himself. The project likely began around 1980 or 1981, and incorporated elements from earlier projects by Scott and Moog. Rhea played an essential role in defining the Spirit's key features, such as the keyboard scanning setup, panel layout, functional architecture, and technical documentation. The Crumar Spirit went into production and was released in late 1983.

CLICK FOR MORE »

IM TZ Dual VCO demos

video upload by Todd Barton

"This and other great modules are available at https://www.infinitemachinery.com/

Also, there will be a booth at Knobcon next month https://www.knobcon.com/"

"The TZ Dual VCO is two full featured VCOs on in a single 16HP module. Both VCOs output sine, square, saw, triangle and PWM wave forms. Each VCO also has thru-zero and expotential FM input. The type of FM is selectable using a toggle switch. An important feature of TZ Dual VCO is the FM input for each VCO can be control by a VCA input. A potentiometer adjusts the overall maximum of the FM input while the VCA provides an amplitude envelope.

Each VCO has the following inputs:

1V/Oct
PWM CV
FM signal
FM signal VCA
Each VCO has the following wave form outputs:

Sine
Square
Saw
Triangle
PWM
Each VCO has these adjustment knobs:

Coarse
Fine
PWM
FM amount
The upper VCO can be synced with the square wave of the lower VCO. A three position toggle switch is used to select hard sync (up), soft sync (down), or no sync (center).

Current requirements - 130mA +12V, 130mA -12V"

Hügelton Instruments Introduces K102E Digital Compound Oscillator

video upload by Hügelton Instruments

"The K102E is a digital compound oscillator rooted in our original “Island Synthesis” philosophy. 2 independent digital cores are blended via Phase-Modulation, Cross-Fade, or Additive Mix to create dense, animated harmonics—all in a compact Eurorack module.

Website: https://hugelton.com/k102e

VCV Rack version: https://library.vcvrack.com/Hugelton/..."


The K102E is a digital compound oscillator module developed based on the unique "Island Synthesis" philosophy.

Features

3 independent oscillators for rich sound generation

Stable oscillation and diverse wavetable synthesis achieved through DSP processing by microcomputer

Two main oscillators (A/B) function similar to typical complex oscillators

Selection from 3 synthesis methods (phase modulation, multiplication, crossfade)

Hard sync and detune functions

8 types of waveforms following 80's wavetable synthesizers

Reading position controlled by harmonic specification index

Third oscillator (C) functions as an auxiliary oscillator

Selection of any frequency from low to high

Can be used as an LFO or cross-modulator

External control interfaces include standard CV inputs with octave/volt control, CV control for harmonics (wavetable read position), and CV input for alpha parameter of waveform synthesis

Images:

Top: VCV Rack version

Bottom: eurorack version

A Super Polyphonic Stereo Oscillator (with 56 oscillators!) // Ripsaw from Acid Rain Technology

video upload by DivKid

"Here's RIPSAW from Acid Rain Technology which offers 56 oscillators across a stereo shape morphing 4 voice polyphonic oscillator module. From super saws to super squares with new hard sync shift tones (new over the previous Chainsaw module) and now with 4 voices. Join us in exploring the sound, features, creative applications and ways to musically articulate 4 voices in a range of different approaches."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Sequential Introduces the Take 5 Desktop Module

video upload by Sequential

"Take Your Music to the Next Level

The Sequential Take 5 desktop module brings the legendary Prophet-5 sound to your mix, featuring the analog oscillators and filter that transformed electronic music. Compact and powerful, it fits seamlessly into any studio and is easy to transport for live performances. Modern effects and a powerful modulation matrix deliver sounds to transport you.

Soundtrack exclusively by Take 5. Yes, even the drums! Composed by Peter Dyer.

For more information on Take 5 visit Sequential at: https://sequential.com/hybrid-analog/..."

Sequential Take 5 Module Demo (no talking) - Presets for Ambient, Melodic Techno and Electronica

video upload by Limbic Bits

0:00 Pads
13:09 Bass
16:25 Leads and Arpeggios
20:57 Misc, SFX and Percussion

Sequential Take 5 Module Demo (no talking)

video upload by Bonedo Synthesizers

Hurray... Take 5 and TEO 5 Desktop Units

video upload by Starsky Carr

TEO 5 announced here

"The Take 5 and Teo-5 from Sequential and Oberheim make fantastic desktop units. They feel like they were made for this form factor - no compromises, simply great sounding synths in a high quality enclosure. The keyboard versions may have felt lacking in keys (even though they have a great keybed) - just a bit too short for some. I found it was quite handy having one that could fit on my rack! But with these the only decision you have to make is which one is best for you.

Luckily I'm here to confuse you further (they both sound great)! The decision will be whether you prefer the Oberheim or Sequential style of VCO programming, the filters, and the X-Mod/FM. And these just so happen to be the bits I look at in this :)"

0:00 Whoo Hoo!!
2:36 The Hardware
4:37 Quick Overview - What Are They?
6:58 Oscillators
10:20 Sync
12:31 Filters
21:08 X-Mod/FM



Press release follows:

Take Your Music to the Next Level with the Sequential Take 5 Desktop Module

San Francisco, CA – [July 1, 2025] – Sequential, a leading innovator in synthesizer technology, today announced the release of the Take 5 Desktop Module, bringing their legendary analog sound to a more compact and accessible form-factor.

Building on the success of the Take 5 keyboard, the desktop module offers the same powerful analog oscillators and filters that capture the iconic warmth and depth of the Prophet-5, enhanced with modern modulation and digital effects. The module delivers this sought-after sound in a space-saving design, perfect for studio setups and live performances where portability and efficiency are paramount.

"Ever since we launched the Take 5 keyboard, we’ve gotten repeated requests for a desktop module version, " says CEO David Gibbons. "And more recently, it seems that modules have really shot up in popularity. So, we're very excited to offer the Take 5 sound in a format that everyone seems to want."

The Take 5 Desktop Module provides the same hands-on, knob-based experience as its keyboard counterpart, allowing for intuitive sound design and real-time parameter adjustments. Users can delve deep into sound creation with controls that are simple and direct, making it fast and easy to polish your sound.

This synth fits perfectly in smaller studio or bedroom setups, and is easy to transport for live gigs, positioning The Take 5 desktop module to bring its signature Sequential sound to a wider audience than ever before. It's an instrument designed to make life easier and streamline the journey to making music and having fun.

The Take 5 desktop module is available now, with a US MAP price of $1,399.

CLICK FOR MORE »

kNoB technology ηCarinae 2 Eurorack VCO Full Review and Demonstration

video upload by kNoB Technology

"kNoB technology presents an updated and improved Eurorack VCO module ηCarinae 2
Our second ray of light during a dark time

The ηCarinae 2 is a fully analog tzfm oscillator (tri-based).
The concept behind the creation of ηCarinae was to develop a generator with multi-level wave shaping and transformation, allowing not only smooth selection of the base waveform but also modification of the waveform itself in order to expand the available timbres.
7-level waveforming= simple form + form shaping + sub osc + "sine+" + FM + selfpatching + Ring mod
5 basic waves (Tri, Sine, Saw, Double saw, Square PWM) and white noise with vactrol LP filter
Wave folding for sine and triangle waves
SAW and Double SAW, both with Smooth saw ramp shaper (Rise to Fall)
Two SUB OSC f/2 + f/4 with CV level control in main mix
Hard and Soft sync
2x LFO modes
SINE+ mode for mixing simple waveforms with a folding sine wave
Pure analog design in every part of the module
LIN, EXP, TZFM, TZPM, RING modulation possibilities

Time sections:
00:00​ Hello
00:09​ Bla Bla
01:08​ Small demo
03:22 Review of controls
05:40 Review of connectors
07:41 Review of touchpads
08:01​ WAVE and PWM|S + waveshaping
09:49​ WAVE and PWM|S and Sine+ mod
10:50​ WAVE and PWM|S + modulations
11:49 SUB OSCs
12:43​ Synchronization
13:37 FM modulations
14:27 TZFM modulation
16:09 TZPM modulation
18:01 Exponential FM modulation
19:01 7th lvl of waveshaping RING MOD
20:54 RING MOD + TZFM
21:57 VCO to LFO: How to drop the frequency lower than the octave selector allows?
22:32 Demonstrations: Simple to Complex timbres
27:20 Organ-like patch (5oct)
31:44 Drone and Noise"

Adamsynths Warthog Update & Q&A

via Adamsynths

"Earlier this year at Superbooth, Adamsynths unveiled the Warthog: our total recall analog modular synthesizer.

We had tons of interest and loads of great questions from you — and now we’d love to answer some of the most common ones right here.

Is the Warthog a pre-assembled desktop synth, or a fully modular one I can customize?

Great question! The Warthog is a true plug-and-play analog modular synth. You can choose the modules you want, arrange them how you like, and build a setup that suits your workflow perfectly.

Can I use modules from other manufacturers in the Warthog?

Absolutely. The Warthog case supports standard Eurorack power. Just keep in mind: the RECALL feature only works with official Warthog modules.

Can I put Warthog modules into my existing Eurorack case?

Yes, you can — BUT. Because of the RECALL feature, the Warthog uses a different power and communication system than the usual 16-pin ribbon cable found in most Eurorack setups. That said, we’ll make sure all Warthog modules (and any necessary accessories) are also available separately, without the case.

Can I use Warthog modules together with my current modular system?

Of course! The Warthog fully follows Eurorack standards for all signal connections. It uses the same V/OCT control, and its GATE, TRIG, SYNC inputs and outputs are 5V compatible. Just a reminder: RECALL functionality only works with Warthog modules.

Why are some outputs on the CENTRAL UNIT labeled “D” for digital?

We know this caused a bit of confusion at Superbooth 25. Here’s the deal: all CV outputs are fully analog and operate in ranges like -5V to +5V or 0V to +10V. The “D” outputs — short for “digital” — are used for GATE, TRIG, SYNC, START/STOP, or RESET signals. We call them digital simply because they have two states: ON or OFF, i.e., 0 or 1.

When will we get more detailed info about the Warthog’s specs?

We are working on it! The full technical documentation will be available on our website soon. We will notify you in a newsletter as soon as it is available.

And the big one — when can I pre-order the Warthog and how much will it cost?

Right now, our team is working hard to finalize pricing and prepare for production. There’s still some groundwork to cover, but we’re doing our best every day to get the Warthog into your hands as soon as possible. Hopefully, we’ll be able to share more very soon."

Introducing Pip Filter & Pip LFO by ALM

video upload by ALM TV

"The 'Pip Filter' is a compact 4HP voltage controlled 2 pole low-pass filter with resonance and built in VCA. Here we take a look at all the features of the module.

The filter cutoff is controlled via both knob control and dual CV inputs with a built in attenuverter. Resonance is manually controlled and will reach into self oscillation with rough V/Oct tracking. A trigger input allows the filter to be pinged for percussive plucked type sounds. Finally, a built in VCA (normalled open) allows for additional independent amplitude control of the filtered signal.

The “Pip Filter’ provides a classic lowpass filter sound in a small form factor with many useful features for sound sculpting."

Introducing Pip LFO

video upload by ALM TV

"The 'Pip LFO' is a compact 4HP all analogue low frequency oscillator with a wide frequency range, voltage control, numerous outputs, reset input and a VCO mode. Here we take a look at all the features of the module.

The frequency of the Pip LFO is set via a manual control and voltage control input. The module features a unipolar square wave output along with both bipolar and uni-polar triangle, saw and sine waveform outputs. When VCO mode is activated, the frequency jumps to audio range and will track V/Oct for approx 5 octaves. A reset input allows the LFO waveform cycle to be reset and produces hard sync functionality in VCO mode.

The Pip LFO’s compact design makes it easy to add a modulation source and an analogue voice into any system."

Alchemical by MSTRBLSTR

Also on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/68lqZLDB2ip4ZOfEg4SsmB?si=m3ba1VD-SSO_CLr4j7OIMg

"The electricity of live manipulation breathes through every sequence as MSTRBLSTR transmutes the raw essence of the TR-606, MC-202, and TB-303 into a sonic incantation. Alchemical is transformation in motion: analog breakbeats pulse with crackling percussion, acid squelches growl and evolve, and rhythms dissolve and reassemble like matter through fire. The bassline becomes the bedrock of energy, conjured live in real time.

Credits
Released May 29, 2025
Programmed, performed, mixed, and mastered by MSTRBLSTR at Ill Acid
Additional drum programming: Severed Machines (https://severedmachines.com)

Hardware:

Modified Roland TR-606 (Robin Whittle mods)

Din Sync RE-303

MC-202 w/ Tubbutec 2oh2 mod

Mixers: Boss BX-8, Alice 1228, Boss KM-4

FX: Tapco 4400 spring reverb, TC Nova Reverb & Delay, Korg SDD-1000/1200

Compression: BSS DPR-402, DOD SR-866

DAW: Ableton Live

This is the same setup I used on From Deep.

Backstory
I brought my TR-606 to Ramiro at Severed Machines to install a few long-desired mods: switch replacements, a louder BD via resistor change, and Robin Whittle’s Accent Trigger and post-volume individual outs. He left in a few patterns, including a breakbeat variation that really hit me. That inspired the synth parts. Next thing I knew, I was performing and recording the full track.

Recording Notes
I treat mixers as modular routers. For Alchemical, the Alice mixer’s direct outs went straight into my interface, while the Boss BX-8 worked as a submixer for overdrive and tone shaping. I panned certain tracks hard L/R into separate buses, then re-centered them on different mixer channels. I have owned many delays while the Korg units are among my favorites, the TC Nova is often a go-to for synths: it sounds great, has nice filters, tap tempo, and my favorite feature, easily accessible time divisions Protip: a buffered pedal in front helps them sound better. The Nova reverb is also very playable and has a dynamic ducking mode that helps it get out of the way, if that's what I need.

In post, I swapped the TR-606 kick for a TR-808 sample in Ableton - it just gave the track the weight it needed. There’s also a lone TR-808 clap halfway through. Other than that, what you hear is live with only some minor edits and additional processing.

__________________________________________________________________

For TR-606 lovers: I highly recommend Robin Whittle’s mods: https://www.firstpr.com.au/rwi/tr-606/

The Accent Trigger mod alone is worth it - it adds great performance potential. Robin credited the fix to me, but Ramiro deserves most of the credit. Robin's individual outs (post-volume pot) offer superior performance control and gain staging flexibility compared to the more common pre-pot version."

E-mu Drumulator 8 Kits + MIDI upgrade board

video upload by Harry Axten

https://hkadesign.org.uk/d8km.html



"ROM switcher boards and third-party sound ROMs are nothing new as far as the E-mu Drumulator is concerned – in fact both were available while the machine was current. JL Cooper Electronics and others made 3-kit boards, and Digidesign (who later became Avid) got their start producing alternative sound ROMs for the Drumulator under their original name of Digidrums. That said, while the various alternative ROM sets are easy to come by these days, ROM switcher boards are not, and without one it’s a total pain to keep swapping chips in and out as you have to take out 8 screws on the underneath of the thing, lift off the lid, swap 5 chips over and put it all back together again.

8 Kits

I wanted a modification very much in the same style as my TR-707 ROM expansion board, with a number of kits that you can instantly switch between. As with that project, this is done without the need for any additional switches and instead uses a microcontroller to snoop on the front panel switch matrix. Kits are selected by holding down one of the bottom row of buttons marked 1-8 and pressing the ENTER button. The selection is remembered when the Drumulator is powered off too.

The Drumulator’s sounds are stored across 4x 16kB ROM chips, although they form one continuous region of memory. Thanks to this, and due to the way that they’re selected, it’s really easy to replace all four with a single large capacity chip. The 512kB flash ROM that I used can hold 8 kits worth of sounds, which works out nicely as that’s the stock sounds plus 7 of the Digidrums kits, including the famous Rock Drums kit:

Stock kit
Digidrums Alternate Drum Set 1
Digidrums Electronic Drums 1
Digidrums Electronic Drums 2
Digidrums Rock Drums
Digidrums Jazz Drums
Digidrums Latin Percussion
Digidrums African + Misc Percussion
Because each kit also has a corresponding modified program ROM (as the length of sounds, locations in memory and channel assignments are all hard-coded into the Drumulator’s firmware); the D8KM board also has an EPROM which contains the relevant OS for all 8 kits, and is connected to the Drumulator’s OS ROM socket with a ribbon cable. Fortunately the Drumulator doesn’t care if the OS ROM changes while the machine is running as long as they’re all the same version, which they are – ‘P3.00’, the final version.

MIDI

I chose also to include MIDI functionality as part of the upgrade, as most Drumulators don’t have it. E-mu did offer a retrofit, which has been cloned over the years, but it’s very basic and only does MIDI notes. The D8KM board on the other hand also offers the ability to sync the sequencer to incoming MIDI clock. Just set the Drumulator to external clock and if MIDI clock is available, it will automatically override the external clock signal and will also start and stop playback. If MIDI clock is not available the Drumulator will use the external clock signal as normal, including for the tape loading functionality."

New GRP A10 Flagship Synthesizer Incoming

These in via John L Rice.

Left: front panel layout.

Below: PDF with full details. Click on each pic to zoom in.

Update: "The Grp A10 will cost €10,000* plus VAT and will be available at the end of 2026."

CLICK FOR MORE »

UDO Patchwork: The Knife – Heartbeats on the Super 8

video upload by UDO Audio

"Back for another Patchwork video with Hazel — this time looking at recreating the iconic lead from Heartbeats by The Knife, on the Super 8!

0:00 Intro
0:22 Pulsewidth modulation approach
02:16 Hard sync approach
04:06 Comparison
04:30 Combined!"

BlaknBlu Oscar Tria Stereo VCO Review

video upload by Molten Music Technology

"The triple featured Oscar Tria offers regular waveforms, swarming oscillations and polyphonic chord modes within a Eurorack, CV-controlled context. The stereo format offers some lovely detuning and there's some superb morphing between the waveforms. It's built on a digital platform but has a very analogue sound and workflow. Let's get into it."

Index:
Sound demo - 0:00
Intro - 4:57
Overview - 9:34
Green Mode - VCO - 12:29
Yellow Mode - Swarm - 24:32
Orange Mode - Chord - 33:45
FM - 42:16
Noodling - 46:27
Running it in Mono - 51:37
Conclusions - 56:42

"Oscar Tria packs a lot of VCO into 10HP. There are three main modes described below.

Green Mode:
A ‘traditional’ stereo oscillator. In Green Mode you get the usual three waveforms – saw, triangle and square (with variable pulse width, of course) but you can continuously vary the waveform between the three. For instance, by turning the waveform knob to be just to the saw side of triangle, you get a sound very much like the Minimoog’s ‘shark tooth’.
Green mode also gives you a square wave sub oscillator – one octave below the main oscillators – and a sub sub, two octaves below.
Oscar Tria is stereo, of course, so you can detune one oscillator for a rich stereo image – or sum the two outputs to mono and you have two oscillators with two subs, for a BIG sound.
Green mode also features through zero FM, and hard sync.

Yellow Mode:
Super-saw! And super-square! And super-triangle! With a sub (of course). Yellow mode allows you to control the number of oscillators making up the super-whatever, from one (not really super) to 24! Again, being stereo you get up to 12 oscillators in one channel and 12 in the other. Add the sub for a HUGE sound.

Orange Mode:
This is a chord engine, with 20 selectable chords. There are controls to select which chord you want and how many notes are played (over two octaves). CV control allows you to set pitch and chord independently, so you can set up a polyphonic sequence, for instance. Again, the output is stereo with detune control of one output."

Frap Tools Magnolia, 8-voice analog thru-zero FM polyphonic synthesizer | Project update

video upload by Frap Tools

Click CC at the bottom of the player for subtitles.

"Magnolia will be an 8-voice analog through-zero FM synthesizer, which we built to create sounds from the modular world through a classic keyboard interface.

Waveshapers, wavefolders, and, most importantly, analog linear through-zero FM unlock every sound associated with the 'West Coast' synthesis world. But that's not all! Fat resonant filters and powerful analog oscillators allow more traditional subtractive synthesis sounds as well.

A vast and flexible modulation section encourages complex patches with the twist of a knob, but it is always easy to keep track of what's going on thanks to LEDs on every source and destination. An arpeggiator and a sequencer complement the machine.

We are announcing and showcasing two pre-production units. We aim to release the final version at the end of summer, and it will show some differences. It may have a more refined interface, it will feature digital effects, and some of the features currently under evaluation may disappear.

We've been working on it for the last year, and we're eager to show it to the world!"

Follow-up to this post where you'll find additonal pics.

Update: press release follows:

Frap Tools to take on high-end keyboard synthesizer market with ‘West Coast’ MAGNOLIA making its public debut at SUPERBOOTH25

MEDOLLA, ITALY: Frap Tools, hitherto known as a manufacturer of Eurorack modules and accessories alongside professional audio compressors in the 500-Series format, is proud to venture into the world of high-end keyboard synthesizers with its introduction of MAGNOLIA — announced as an 8-VOICE ANALOG THRU-ZERO FM SYNTHESIZER built to unlock every sound associated with ‘West Coast’ modular synthesis through a classic keyboard interface — anchored around showcasing two pre-production units at SUPERBOOTH25, May 8-10, FEZ-Berlin, Germany…

As an 8-VOICE ANALOG THRU-ZERO FM SYNTHESIZER, MAGNOLIA unlocks every sound associated with the so-called ‘West Coast’ modular synthesis world with waveshapers, wavefolders, and, most importantly, analog linear TZFM (Through-Zero Frequency Modulation) Indeed, its intentions are made clear from the outset by the on point wording worked tastefully into its (initial) top panel design. No need to necessarily remain there, though, for fat resonant filters and powerful analogue oscillators also allow for more traditional subtractive synthesis sounds. And although a deep and flexible modulation section encourages complex patches with the push of a button and twist of a knob, switching modulations on and off with the TOGGLE function, it is always easy to keep track of what is going on thanks to the inclusion of LEDs (Light-Emitting Diodes) on every source and destination.

Digging deeper, MAGNOLIA features eight analogue voices with two oscillators — carrier and modulator — and 24 dB/oct resonant HIGH-PASS and LOW-PASS filters; the carrier oscillator has a through-zero core for precise, sideband-rich analogue FM (Frequency Modulation) sounds, so crystal-like pads to growling basses are available to all with the greatest of ease, while FM can be applied to the filters. Furthermore, sculpting sounds that have not been heard before on analogue polysynths are now perfectly possible, thanks to MAGNOLIA’s unique signal flow — think continuously variable waveform shapes and a wavefolder circuit per voice!

Those two oscillators are derived from Frap Tools’ BRENSO (https://frap.tools/products/brenso/), a Euroack module readily representing its creator’s primary analogue source of articulated waveforms whose degree of entanglement can be precisely set by the musician. MAGNOLIA’s Oscillator 1 is the ‘West Coast’ one with TZFM, wavefolder, and FLIP SYNC, while Oscillator 2 is the ‘East Coast’ one, with PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) and fine-tune. Whether wanting experimental FM sounds or punchy synth brass, they are always at anyone’s service. Speaking of Frap Tools’ unique modular soul, MAGNOLIA’s filter section is derived from CUNSA (https://frap.tools/products/cunsa/) — itself a quadruple analogue ping-able multimode resonant filter, saturator, mixer, and oscillator, no less!

Musically, MAGNOLIA sports a keyboard from fellow Italians FATAR, with polyphonic aftertouch capabilities for enhanced expressiveness, while a per-part ARPEGGIATOR and per-part 16-step SEQ (sequencer) serve to creatively complement the synthesizer still further. Features briefly worth drawing attention to here by way of ending on some more high notes include MAGNOLIA’s bi-timbral programs (with SINGLE, MORPH, DUAL, and SPLIT MODES); all-analogue signal path; three loop-able DAHDSR (DELAY, ATTACK, HOLD, DECAY, SUSTAIN, and RELEASE) envelopes; three digital LFOs (Low Frequency Oscillators); and 512 preset memory slots.

Anyone attending SUPERBOOTH25, May 8-10, FEZ-Berlin, Germany can get up close and personal with two MAGNOLIA pre-production units by swinging by Booth B049 there. Their creators will be showcasing them personally, eager to show the results of their hard work, while providing a passionate warm welcome. Frap Tools aim to release MAGNOLIA as a production product by the end of summer, albeit with some differences evident by then. The interface will likely be more refined, featuring digital effects, while some features currently under evaluation could conceivably be removed."

Infinite Machinery Demo by Todd Barton

video upload by Todd Barton

"Just got turned onto these cool modules from Infinite Machinery which is located here in my little town. Really digging them. Enjoy these brief test drives."

Todd Barton's Patreon: / synthtodd

The Infinite Machinery Hexa VCA is a 6 channel VCA with DC coupling and a unique normalization function. All in 12 HP

Signal inputs are DC coupled.
CV input response, 0 to +5V

Maximum amplification is unity gain, or 1.

Channels with no CV input will have CV normalized
to the CV of the channel above. This cascading of CV
values is defined in two groups, channels 1 - 3 and 4 - 6.

For example: If CV is patched to channel 1 and no CV
patched into channels 2 & 3 - Channels 2 & 3 will
follow the CV of channel 1.

Patch CV into channel 2 and nothing into channel 3
then channel 3 will follow the CV of channel 2.
The same hold true for channels 4 - 6, with 4 being
the start of the CV cascade.

Module depth - 34mm

Current draw - 40mA +-

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4/22/25 Soundforce S-LD + SSL 1660 + GenRad 1564-A + BLM Gate Seq + DSP 808 + MIDIVERB II + PV 1300

video upload by Cfpp0

"4/22/25 ElectroComp EML 200 + Synthetic Sound Labs 1660 + Analog Craftsman acVOKs + STG muSonics Vanilla Envelope + General Radio 1564-A + Blue Lantern Gate Sequencer + Soundforce S-LD + DSP 808 + Alesis MIDIVERB II + Peavey 1300

Testing out a used Soundforce S-LD module we just got. You can hear the cowbell and the maraca (there’s a switch on the back to choose the Linn toms or percussion). The other percussion is from the DSP 808 module, which is a similar sampled sound module, but with pitch control and voltage controls. The synthy kick drum is the General Radio 1564-A processing the S-LD kick drum. Its VU meter looks like it’s out of sync, but it’s just slow and getting pinned hard. The two drones that build up are from two ElectroComp EML 200 synthesizers. The synth lines are Synthetic Sound Labs 1660 The Matrix Algorithmic Composer through the Analog Craftsman acVOKS filter into the STG muSonics Vanilla Envelope. The reverb is preset 10 on the Alesis MIDIVERB II."

Michigan Synth Works & Neutron Sound Presents Caveman Modules: Low Cost High Quality Euro

Caveman Modules is a collaboration between Michigan Synth Works and Neutron sound focusing on affordable, quality modules with unique features and functionality. Caveman Modules are designed to be simple to use and are perfect for musicians just breaking into the eurorack world while still offering higher level functionality for more advanced users.

Check with dealers on the right for upcoming availability.

The Launch Line-Up:

30SC: A voltage-controlled oscillator inspired by the legendary Roland TB-303 with square, tri, and 2 saw outputs. 3OSC also features an innovative hard sync input for chaining multiple units and an FM modulation attenuverter.

Specifications
• Width: 6HP
• Depth: 25 mm
• Current Draw: +12 V: 6mA, -12 V: 6mA
• Price: US$100

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NRSynth's SEM Module - The "Solo": An "Extended" Version of the SEM

video uploads by Séraphin PALMERI

Playlist:

1. "Pink Floyd On The Run" Module SEM NRSynth

"On The Run" de Pink Floyd avec un clone amélioré du module SEM d'Oberheim, fabriqué par NRSynth, une lutherie éléctronique made in France #pinkfloyd #ontherun #oberheim #sem #NrSynth

2. Tangerine Dream Intro "Ricochet Part 1"

Le module SEM de NRSynth est vraiment parfait pour reproduire l’intro de « Ricochet Part 1 » de Tangerine Dream. https://nrsynth.fr

3. Module SEM NrSynth Démo 1

00:00 Midnight Express
00:57 Star Cycle
01:41 Dervish D.
02:06 Stranger Things
02:44 Il était une fois le Prophet

4. Module SEM NRSynth Démo 2

00:00 Basse 1
00:13 Basse 2
00:26 Fun For Me
00:38 ABACAB
00:54 Welcome To The Machine
01:24 Caverne
02:33 Tange FX
02:49 Chinox
03:04 Percox

5. Tangerine Dream « Monolight (Part 2) » With the Sequential Prophet 6 & Korg Kronos



Details via NRSynth (Google translated)

Oberheim Legacy: In 1974, Tom Oberheim imagined a small synth as an accessory to his DS-2A digital sequencer. But it was Dennis P Collins, a gifted ARP engineer, who designed the multimode filter of the Synth Expander Module (SEM). This unique filter is a 12 db filter that cannot deny its lineage with the ARP 1047 (ARP 2500) and ARP 2023 (white Odyssey MK1) filters, 12 db filters also designed by Dennis P Collins. With two very fat VCOs and a devastating sync (also close to the Odyssey VCOs), the small SEM offers a powerful sound, very present in the mix and very different from Moog and other synths with 24 db filters. So despite its simplicity and a filter that does not enter self-oscillation, we can get a lot of sounds out of it. Accessible and easy to use, the SEM is a success. In 1975, Tom paired first two, then four, into a huge keyboard case, creating the first "true" polyphonic instrument in history, the "Four Voices." In 1976, the SEM was even expanded to eight. Nicknamed the "White Elephant," its sound was as enormous as the instrument itself! But in 1978, the brilliant Prophet-5 made it obsolete, and Tom designed the OB-X, whose channel cards were also clones of the SEM. Subsequently, the OB-XA and OB-8 used Curtis chipsets and no longer had quite the same sound. In 2010, Oberheim reissued the SEM identically, but with all surface-mount components. In 2011, the SEM PRO added just a MIDI interface.

NRsynth "Solo": This is an "extended" version of the SEM, handcrafted with traditional through-hole components. Only the envelopes have been modified for a punchier result; the rest is identical to the original synth. Additionally, the Solo features a sub-oscillator, a glide, white noise, and many more modulation options than the SEM. MIDI velocity is also supported. Finally, the white metal case gives way to a luxurious, classically crafted cabinet with waxed oak sides and black tolex, similar to a Marshall amp.

A patchbook of all Séraphin Palmeri's sounds is included with the device.

Specifications:

VCO: Two discrete VCOs with hard sync, saw, pulse + PW (same as SEM)
Sub-oscillator: Pulse wave – 1 octave below VCO1.
Noise: 100% analog white noise
Multimode 12 dB filter: Same as SEM with LPF, HPF, notch, and bandpass mode. VCA: Analog (same as SEM)
LFO: Analog, triangle wave (same as SEM)
Envelopes: Analog (same as Pro-1) with deactivatable "Release".
Digital LFO: 8 waveforms + tilt, 3 frequency ranges, sync.
Sample and Hold: Analog, sync.
Glide: Analog portamento circuit at the input.
Patchbay: 15 I/O points on 3.5mm jacks (Eurorack compatible).
Rear Connections: Audio I/O and sync on 6.35mm jacks. Reset button.
Dimensions: 30x24x15 cm

Price: €1,390