Kodamo EssenceFM - One step sequencing

video upload by j bowman ALL PROCEEDS TO MEDICAL AID FOR PALESTINE

"Welcome to the ultimate Kodamo EssenceFM One Step Sequencing tutorial! In this video, we dive deep into the powerful sequencing and tracker-style workflow of the Kodamo EssenceFM synth, exploring how to create evolving generative patches, rhythmic patterns, and dynamic FM textures. Whether you're new to FM synthesis or an experienced sound designer, this video will help you unlock the full creative potential of your EssenceFM.

Discover how One Step Sequencing transforms the Kodamo EssenceFM into a true sound design synth — perfect for ambient, techno, and experimental electronic music. We’ll cover generative sequencing techniques, modulation tricks inspired by the Eagenmatrix and the Haken Continuum, and advanced patch creation for expressive, evolving soundscapes.

If you’re passionate about synthesis, sequencing, FM sound design, or just love exploring the boundaries of your synth setup, this tutorial will inspire new ideas and workflows.

Keywords: Kodamo EssenceFM, synth, sequencing, tracker, sound design synth, tutorial, viral, FM synthesis, generative patching, Eaganmatrix, electronic music production."

Oberheim TEO-5: Tom Sawyer to Techno and DnB Using Its Amazing Filter • TEO-5 Filter Demo #oberheim

video upload by SynthSoniq

"In this Oberheim TEO-5 demo and tutorial, I explore its filter as I walk through how to create the Tom Sawyer patch from Rush’s classic track, I show how I use the arpeggiator and filter for a Techno / Trance riff, and I demo how to use the TEO-5’s Unison “chord mode” to create a DnB pad with a filter sweep.

I think it's good to know how to program a patch like the Tom Sawyer sound, not just because you're trying to play a Rush song, but because it teaches you about filter envelopes, resonance, and the general character of a synth's filter. I like making it on any synth because it gives me a feel for that synth's sound. It's then easy to add some attack to the envelope to turn the patch into a great pad, or decrease the decay to make some cool bass sounds.

Chapters:
0:00 Intro
0:40 Tom Sawyer
3:03 Techno / Trance
5:55 Drum 'n' Bass

Gear used in this video:
Oberheim TEO-5, Boss DR-202 Drum Machine, Zoom R4 Digital Audio Recorder"

Vongon Introduces Solarfaze Stereo 3-band Saturator and Detune/Chorus Pedal

Demo and Sounds Samples video upload by Matt Lowery

"Grab a sample pack and support the cause: https://otakusound.gumroad.com/l/boke...

Today we've got the Solarfaze on the bench, by Vongon. It's a stereo saturation and detune (aka chorus) effect. Here's how it works and what it sounds like.

00:00 Intro
01:43 Chorus
05:23 Saturation
09:45 With Subharmonicon
11:40 With Pulsar 23
14:10 Multiband Guitar Loop"

Burning Softly // Vongon Solarfaze

video upload by OoraMusic

"Warmth. Movement. Glow.
This is the new Vongon SOLARFAZE — a stereo chorus fused with saturation.
Joined by Replay, Ultrasheer, and Polyphrase, here’s how it dreams.
Enjoy."

00:00 Jam
02:36 Intro
03:59 How to support me
04:30 Overview of SOLARFAZE
05:45 Saturate
08:15 Detune
10:04 Bringing in the other pedals
11:15 A different effect chain
15:13 Bonut tip : Transposing arpeggios with Replay
16:10 Solarfaze on Pads
20:05 Conclusions

Vongon Solarfaze is beautiful (harp, guitar, synth, drums)

video upload by Harp Lady



Pics and details via Perfect Circuit

The Solarfaze from Vongon is a stereo 3-band saturator and detune/chorus pedal that gives you exacting control over the frequency landscape of your signal. Whether you're adding a bit of undulatory warmth and saturation or assaulting the frequency spectra of your choice, Solarfaze as you covered, often surprising you with its tonal complexity. The heart of the pedal is a 3-band Bass, Mid, and Treble saturation mixer with each section offering three levels of gain: Soft, Boost, and Hard. Each band can be finetuned to one of five different frequencies, making this pedal as versatile as you are.

The Detune section offers a simple interface for adding movement and interest to your signal, affecting the stereo field, as well for a satisfying binaural experience. Adjust the Amount and Mix to your taste and turn up the Envelope control for dynamic expression that is based on your playing. Size can be adjusted as well to create a smoother or tighter detune effect. Other features include a built-in Noise Gate and an effect rerouting option. Indeed, the Solarfaze is a wonderful addition to the already incredibly Vongon lineup and is sure to find a use in any pedalboard.

SOLARFAZE FEATURES

Stereo multi-band saturator and chorus
Soft-clipping waveshapers for smooth transition from subtle warmth to heavy breakup
Bass, Mid, and Treble drive sliders
Selectable gain level per band: Soft (0dB), Boost (+6dB), Hard (+12dB)
Each band has 5 different frequency options
Stereo detune chorus with independent left/right pitch shifts
Envelope modulation of detune amount for dynamic stereo animation
Route Saturation into Detune and vice versa
Built-in Noise Gate with adjustable threshold
MIDI Input for parameter control and 9 preset storage

CLICK FOR MORE »

Stylophone CPM DF-8 - What is a "Dynamic Multi-Filter" anyway?

video upload by Oscillator Sink

"The Stylophone CPM DF-8 is the follow up to the well received (and for good reason!) DS-2 drone synth. Rather than being a synth first, the DF-8 is a dual/stereo filter at heart, but it has a good few tricks up its sleeve that might elevate it from being 'just a filter'.

The DF-8 will be released 20th November 2025 and the RRP is: £229 | €269 | $299

Transparency notice: I was sent the DF-8 prototype as a beta-tester, and was allowed to keep the unit to make videos about it. I wasn't otherwise paid, and Dubreq have had no editorial oversight on this video.

Chapters
00:00 Intro
01:19 Feature overview
06:03 Filter mode demo and comparison
14:46 DF-8 as an instrument (+ testing filter tracking)
18:13 The VCA and envelopes.
20:19 Audio Envelope Triggers (compression and transient shaping)
26:57 Building a Stereo Filter patch
37:59 Summing Up"

This Makes Anything Sound Amazing// Stylophone DF-8 Filter / Mutator and then some... Filter Demo

video upload by Starsky Carr

"Ever wondered what happens when Stylophone — the quirky British maker of those pocket synths from the ‘60s — decides to build a serious analogue filter with the remake of the classic Mutronics Mutator filter chip and the screaming madman from the *Stylophone GenR8*? Meet the *Stylophone CPM DF-8*, a gritty, super flexible and occasionally unpredictable beast that turns any signal into pure lo-fi magic.

THE STYLOPHONE CPM DF-8 ANALOG DYNAMIC MULTI-FILTER
RELEASE DATE: 20TH NOV '25
PRICE: £229 | €269 | $299

In this video, I dive into the DF-8 showing how it reacts to drums, synths, and even full mixes. Expect sweeps, growls, distortion, and plenty of Character. This isn’t your average boutique filter — it’s dirty, chaotic, and full of charm.

You’ll hear:

The raw filter tone and resonance range
How it shapes synths and drum machines
Drive, envelope and modulation tricks
Whether it’s worth adding to your studio or live setup

If you love sound design, modular gear, or just discovering weird musical devices, this one’s for you."

Additional Stylophone CPM DF-8 posts

Conductive Labs Terrain Synth: Making Drone OverTone

video upload by Conductive Labs

"Watch & Listen how to make this Ambient Drone
Kickstarter still open: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/...

This is a video demonstrating how the Terrain Synth can morph between the R G B color channels of the image terrains.
/ discord

Terrain Synth features:
Unique terrain oscillators
32 note polyphony (8 per timbre)
Four timbres (layers) that can be split or stacked
Two morphable terrains per voice
Up to 7x unison for each voice
Two sub-oscillators (-1 & -2) oct for each voice
White, Pink, Blue and Brown noise
Oscillator sync, Phase distortion, Mirroring and Windowing

17 math-based terrains with infinite resolution
Dozens of image-based terrains
User loadable image & wavetable terrains (.jpg and .png, .wav)
18 morphable paths with infinite resolution

Dedicated mixer for timbre layers
LFO, Envelope and Expressive-mapper per parameter
On board effects: Delay, Ping-Pong Delay, Reverb, Shimmer Reverb, Chorus, Flanger, Phaser, Stereo Phaser, Overdrive and Decimator
Dedicated sequencer, arpeggiator and audition buttons

Hundreds of sortable presets with onboard preset librarian
36 quick access patch favorites (6x6)
Multi level patches, Init, Copy & Paste

Infinite Encoders – mixer, menu, modulation and user modules
A 7-inch IPS display for full color sonic visualization
Selectable terrain view angles and color schemes
MIDI-I/O via 5-Pin DIN, USB Host, and USB Device ports
6x CV/Gates and 3x expression pedals.
Left/Right balanced stereo and headphone (w/ vol control)
Desktop / 4U rack configurations"

Modular Tactics: Connecting Eurorack to Your DAW

video upload by Perfect Circuit

"Ever wonder the best way to get your modular synth and your DAW to speak the same language?

Time to learn: our pal Nigel Broad is here with a quick + easy how-to about connecting your modular synthesizer with your DAW. Using Ableton as a point of reference, this video clarifies a couple of key tactics for getting your Eurorack working in a modern computer-based production environment.

Learn more key concepts about connecting your computer + modular synths on our blog, Signal: https://bit.ly/4hASpEz

+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+-+
Perfect Circuit is an independent electronic instrument shop with an online store at https://www.perfectcircuit.com/ and a Burbank, California showroom at 2405 Empire Ave. We're open seven days a week, 12-8 PM, and our entire inventory is available to try out in person. Get your hands on the most excellent analog and digital synthesizers, effect pedals, Eurorack modular synths, drum machines, recording gear, and more!

Learn about electronic music, techniques, and gear on our blog, Signal: https://www.perfectcircuit.com/signal"

Frap Tools: Finally we ACTUALLY PLAYED a modular synth!

video upload by Frap Tools

"In today's study, ‪@francescogennarimusic‬ guides us through the construction of a fully-functional polyphonic modular synthesizer that can be played with a keyboard AND sequenced at the same time! Check out the video to see how he managed to get FIVE voices, one of which with the unique character of formant oscillators."

Time stamps:
00:00 Introduction
00:23 Modular performance
04:22 Track structure overview
04:49 4-Voice polyphonic synth routing
07:33 Usta sequencing and modulation
08:04 Formant oscillator with Falistri
10:27 Bass line
11:02 Effect section: Desmodus Versio as reverb
12:15 Effect section: FX AID XL as chorus

Original track 'Studio No.7' composed by @francescogennarimusic
Instagram: / fncgennari
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/francesco.gennari
Bandcamp: https://francescogennari.bandcamp.com...
Soundcloud: / user-351738626
‘Studi’ takes its cue from the tradition of the Étude, treating each track as a focused investigation into sound, structure, and technique.

Artwork by Daniel Hicks
Instagram: / mrmrsir
Website: https://danielhicksart.com/

Morphor ECHON 6 BBD Resonator Synth Now Open for Pre-Orders

Morphor's ECHON 6 pre-orders are now open at Perfect Circuit

Press release follows:

Morphor marks upcoming availability of ECHON 6 as world’s first polysynth based around analogue BBD resonators by announcing opening of pre-orders

GHENT, BELGIUM: having twice turned heads and opened ears thanks to show-stealing showcases at SUPERBOOTH25, May 8-10, FEZ-Berlin, Germany and Machina Bristronica 2025, September 27-28, Bristol, UK, Morphor marks upcoming availability of its eagerly-awaited ECHON 6 — being billed as the world’s first polyphonic synthesizer based around BBD (Bucket-Brigade Delay) resonators, building upon the Belgium-based collective of artists, engineers, and musicians with a passion for creative sound experience and radical acoustic ideas’ illustrious Eurorack expertise in that area as its inaugural standalone (rack-mountable) desktop design — by announcing the opening of pre-orders as of October 23…

As an ANALOGUE POLYPHONIC MULTI-TIMBRAL BBD SYNTHESIZER — helpfully highlighted by the on point wording worked tastefully into its fitting front panel design’s execution, ECHON 6 brings the principals of modal synthesis into the analogue domain. Far from reimagining a digital concept with modern analogue circuitry, it readily redefines how resonance and excitation can interact. And as the world’s first polyphonic synthesizer based around BBD resonators, no less, each of its six voices features a discrete BBD RESONATOR that tracks the keyboard, producing organic overtones and complex harmonic depth. Duly allowing its users to excite those resonators in creative ways, ECHON 6 can generate anything from plucked and bowed strings over leads and basses to big pads and evolving soundscapes. Combining comprehensive multi-timbral capabilities, a 9 x 32 modulation matrix, a full analogue signal path, and a one-knob-per-function approach, ECHON 6 ultimately unites experimental sound design with classic polyphony. Indeed, its architecture invites exploration at every stage of that analogue signal path.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Generative Patches: DFAM+Mother-32+Subharmonicon. Jam Demo

video upload by Anton Anru

📚 DMS Generative is a collection of 25 patches for the semi-modular system Moog Sound Studio: DFAM + Mother-32 + Subharmonicon. This genre of sound design is highly popular within modular culture, and the Moog Sound Studio offers an excellent feature set to explore it.
🎛 Controlled chaos and randomness, probability, non-repetitiveness, tempo shifts, pattern uniqueness, the alternation of short and long sounds, unexpected changes, silence and density, harmonic and FX-like tones, and glitchy bursts throughout sequences — all of these elements are part of the soundset.
🎚 Generative timbres can serve as a strong addition to, or the main element of, ambient or techno tracks, jams, and performances. You can also record fragments into your DAW or sampler, slice them into one-shots or loops, and obtain unique material for further processing.

📦 Get these patches: https://antonanru.sellfy.store/p/moog...

🕹 The key idea behind the soundset is a high level of interconnection. In this patchbook, the timbres of the synths are intertwined — they cannot exist independently:
🔹 They modulate each other with LFOs and envelopes.
🔹 A sequence from one synth may change parameters on another.
🔹 Trigger interactions, clock/rhythm, and run/stop modulations break predictable patterns.
🔹 Audio signals from VCOs may be used as modulation sources to create harmonies, intervals, or wild experimental inharmonic tones.
🔹 Alternatively, they can be used as audio sources routed into another synth to be processed through its unique filter and envelope — giving the signal a “second life.”
DFAM, M32, and SUBH each play distinct and defined roles — it’s not a sound mess, but a tightly integrated system where the synths work in close cooperation.

CLICK FOR MORE »

The Florian Schneider Collection to Be Auctioned at JULIEN*S November 19

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

via JULIEN*S

"THE FLORIAN SCHNEIDER COLLECTION

Auction to be held at Musician's Hall of Fame & Museum, Nashville, on November 19

An incredible collection of more than 450 artifacts from the life and career of Florian Schneider, co-founder of the pioneer electronic band Kraftwerk."

Pics and videos featuring some of the gear below, and his Lederhosen for good measure (thanks greg!).

Update: the post has been fully updated with all the synth related gear. This may just well be the longest post to be featured on the site. I wanted to capture all the pics for all of the details including notes, scuffs, and of course serial numbers. It's an interesting look into what he used, the condition he keped his gear, in some cases, how he actually used his gear. Note the phonetics on the keys of the Casio CZ-101 and DX-100. Note the Midi Switch Box with a built-in speaker? What's that about? Note the camouflage key strap on the Korg RK-100 Remote Keyboard. Did he pick it out himself or did the keytar just come with it? Note the repeat midi controllers and the MIDI saxaphones. Wind was his primary instrument. You'll find a ton of the acoustic gear he used in the other listings. This is a fascinating insight into both what and how he used his gear.

Side note: there is no affiliate compensation for this post. The note at the top automatically shows for all posts with the Auction label.


Rack Mount Sennheiser VSM-201 Vocoder

Starting Bid $5,000

Estimate $20,000 - $40,000 USD

A late 1970s Sennheiser VSM 201 Vocoder with no serial number from the personal studio and collection of Florian Schneider of Kraftwerk (see images). While it’s said that only a few dozen of these Vocoders were produced, a few examples made it into the hands of forward-thinking musical artists including Herbie Hancock, Daft Punk, and of course, Kraftwerk, who used a VSM-201 like this on their albums Man Machine (1978) and Computerworld (1981). The VSM-201 has an intelligible sound that has not yet been bested by modern gear. Includes power cable. This VSM-201 has been removed from its wooden enclosure (which bears the serial number plate) and modified with a metal rack mount casing, presumably for live use. Requires 240v, IEC power cable not included.

Dimensions: 19 x 9 x 9 inches

Category: Kraftwerk, Equipment

Provenance: PROVENANCE From the Estate of Florian Schneider

CLICK FOR MORE »

how to use the Polyend SYNTH

video upload by TOSKABYSS

"Today we are taking a look at a different way to approach the Polyend Synth. Embracing limitations and using it as a source of inspiration."

0:00 - Intro
0:37 - Overview
0:53 - The grid
1:48 - Synth Engines
2:35 - Important Sub Menus
3:09 - The design
3:36 - Accessing all the synth parameters
4:35 - A different way to approach the synth
4:55 - A typical approach
6:07 - First way I use Polyend Synth
8:14 - Second way I use Polyend Synth
9:44 - My only complaint
10:13 - Final thoughts
11:04 - Final track

Erae 2 Sound Design - Hand Drums, Space & FX

video upload by embodme

"In this session, we dive deep into the expressive world of the Erae 2, exploring how its unique surface transforms sound design into a tactile experience. From organic hand drum rhythms to immersive space textures and evolving FX layers, this performance showcases how touch and movement can shape sound in real time.

🔹 Featuring: Custom patches, layered percussion, ambient effects, and gesture-based modulation.
🔹 Focus: Expressivity, sound sculpting, and spatial design on the Erae 2.
🔹 Gear: Erae 2 + synth & FX setup.

If you love experimental sound design, performance-based synthesis, or just want to hear what’s possible with the Erae 2 — this one’s for you."

Ambient with Pelle Mode Nord Lead & OP-1 field : Fluvial Terrace 2025-10-19 by atnr

video upload by atnr

"A piece created with the ‪@NordKeyboards‬ Nord Lead and ‪@teenageengineering‬ OP-1 field — an ambient track built from distorted tones generated in the Nord Lead’s Pelle mode and lo-fi synth pads.

The Nord Lead, when set to Pelle mode, produces an unusually aggressive tone. Its output passes through the ‪@strymon‬ NightSky for reverb and filtering.

On the OP-1 field, a 16-bar synth loop was recorded and played back at a slower tape speed, layering additional sounds during performance. The output is processed through the ‪@ChaseBlissAudio‬ Lossy to achieve a lo-fi texture.

================
How to Enable Pelle Mode on the Nord Lead 1

1.Set Program A to 19 and Program B to 65.
2.Hold down SYSTEM, then press SHIFT.
3.While keeping both buttons held, press SET, then press PERF. MODE.
(Keep SYSTEM and SHIFT held the entire time.)

If you hear a clicking sound, Pelle Mode has been successfully activated.
If the program number displays 75, the attempt failed — this happens when CLEAR is pressed instead of SET."

MegaFM: Sound exploration - Session 7

video upload by j bowman ALL PROCEEDS TO MEDICAL AID FOR PALESTINE

"MegaFM: Sound exploration - Session 7 | FM Synth Sound Design

Welcome to my latest video, 'MegaFM: Sound exploration - Session 6'! In this video, I dive deep into the world of FM synthesizers and explore the characterful Twisted Electrons MegaFM. If you’re passionate about FM synth sound design or looking to enhance your synth music skills, this video is for you. I’ll show you the unique features of the MegaFM and how it stands out in the crowded world of FM synths.

The MegaFM offers incredible possibilities for sound designers, from deep, evolving basses to sparkling, intricate leads. Throughout this video, I’ll demonstrate key tips and tricks to help you unlock the full potential of this digital synth, while giving you a close-up look at its user interface and sound-shaping capabilities.

Whether you're a seasoned FM synth user or just getting started with synth music, the MegaFM is an exciting tool to explore. Join me as I explore the ins and outs of this versatile synthesizer and create a range of sounds that will inspire your next track."

Kodamo Mask1 - Unlock the secrets of the bitmask sequence: octave switching

video upload by j bowman ALL PROCEEDS TO MEDICAL AID FOR PALESTINE

"🔍 Unlock the Secrets of Bitmask Synthesis with the Kodamo Mask1! In this in-depth tutorial, we dive into the powerful octave switching capabilities of the Kodamo Mask1 – a revolutionary bitmask synthesizer designed for next-level sound design. Whether you're a synth enthusiast exploring new textures or a producer aiming for that viral sound, this video breaks down the bitmask sequence and shows you how to creatively manipulate octaves for stunning results.

🚀 Curious about the Kodamo Mask1EX? This tutorial lays the groundwork you’ll need to master both the Mask1 and the upcoming Mask1EX, giving you a head start on advanced synthesis techniques.

🎹 Perfect for fans of experimental synth workflows, hybrid synthesis, and anyone looking to push their sound design synth game into new territory.

👀 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more synth tutorials, sound design tips, and deep dives into unique instruments like the Kodamo Mask1.

📌 Tags: Kodamo Mask1, Kodamo Mask1EX, sound design, bitmask synth, octave switching, synthesizer tutorial, synth workflow, viral sound design, experimental synthesis, bitmask sequence"

Soul Of the Machine: A Celebration of the Life & Legacy of ARP founder Alan R. Pearlman

via the Alan R Pearlman Foundation

Available on Bandcamp here

Press release follows:

Kingston, NY— In 2025, the Alan R. Pearlman Foundation celebrates the centennial of its namesake, the electronic visionary whose marvelous ARP synthesizers changed the landscape of music forever. As part of the ongoing celebrations, the Foundation is announcing the release of Soul Of The Machine, a 36-track musical celebration of the man and his creations as interpreted by a diverse range of recording artists.

Soul Of The Machine is a 36-track collection of tracks old and new, covering everything from innovative electronic, dance, and space music to jazz, funk, and Latin pop, all featuring the signature sounds of classic ARP instruments. The collection includes everything from ARP’s first synthesizer — the massively powerful ARP 2500 modular system — to the instruments that rewrote the rules on how electronics and music came together. The 2600, Odyssey, Pro Soloist, Omni, and many more ARP instruments sing, cry, scream, and soar, in the hands of musical talents both legends and newcomers.

Soul Of The Machine is a treasure trove of musical exploration. Martin Gore’s “KIno" combines Depeche Mode’s signature rhythmic power with a uniquely lyrical and sweet atmosphere. “Mr. No” is a celebration of the classic proto-techno sound of John Foxx. Award-winning soundtrack composer Mark Isham showcases his signature pulsating energy and evocative moodscapes in the mini-suite “Musings – in Two Parts”. Lisa Bella Donna takes listeners on a journey into timeless wonder in the epic “Conclusions.” JG Thirlwell’s “Sphere” is a synth freakout ricocheting between ominous sci-fi atmospheres and searing beats. Panic Girl offers "Drifting Whispers," a somber and uplifting neo-retro journey into a past that never was.

Other artists on the collection include Michael Brückner, Phil Cirocco, Rupert Greenall, LaMar "Kronick" Mitchell, Jeff Rona, Drew Schlesinger & David Torn, Don Slepian, and many others, as well as tracks by the collection's curators Steve Roach and Chris Meyer of Alias Zone.

Famed ambient / electronic pioneer and ARP user since 1978, Steve Roach shares his thoughts on Soul Of The Machine: "In 2024 I had the honor of meeting Dina Pearlman-Ifil — the director of the Alan R Pearlman Foundation — in person. Over the course of several phone conversations we discussed ways to celebrate the centennial year of her father's life and his place in history. My idea for a compilation of music using her father’s creations grew out of those conversations, presenting a perfect way to directly experience the vast range of music that was birthed by the family of ARP synthesizers. This compilation is just a small taste of the universe Alan inspired in sound explorers and artists across a vast range of genres."

Steve mapped out the music so that CD 1 represents a sonic journey and CD 2 provides a showcase of the depth and breadth of what ARP synths can do. After both CDs were finalized, there were more tracks than room on the CDs. These additional songs are available as a bonus digital supplement to the physical CD set.

Says Dina Pearlman-Ifil: “I have long-dreamed of a multi-genre collection that would illustrate the depth and breadth of the possibilities of my father's instruments. This collection is the embodiment of what my father treasured most: The creative spirit. As the old ARP tagline used to say: ‘The most creative part of an ARP Synthesizer is you.’”

The Alan R. Pearlman Foundation is dedicated to the empowerment of young and burgeoning artists into the future. When we look at classical instruments born hundreds of years ago, we see that Alan Pearlman's synthesizers stand tall, earning their place in the evolution of musical history. Acoustic or electric, their common ground is the enduring inspiration for creativity and sonic innovation that inspires the hearts and minds of musicians, performers, and sound explorers worldwide.

Soul Of The Machine will be available for streaming on October 17, 2025. The special limited edition CD will be available for purchase in early-to-mid-November.

Proceeds go the Alan R. Pearlman Foundation

The Alan R. Pearlman Foundation is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization.
Our mission is to celebrate the legacy of inventor, musician, entrepreneur and engineer Alan R. Pearlman, by making his innovative inventions publicly accessible, and by inspiring future generations to imagine and create.

ARP Centennial Compilation Concept: Steve Roach
Project Directors: Steve Roach, Chris Meyer, and Dina Pearlman-Ifil Mastered by: Robert Rich

Cover concept and design by Dina Pearlman-Ifil, production by Sharon Wasko

This compilation wouldn't be possible without the support of our incredible sponsors: Cherry Audio, Korg USA, Moog Music and Steve Roach.
Also HUGE thanks to Chris Meyer / Alias Zone, Mark Marshall / interage.com for all things web, Dr. Mike Metlay/ atomicwords.net for creative input on the liner notes, and Sam Rosenthal / Projekt Records.

Purchase from BandCamp: https://alanrpearlmanfoundation.bandcamp.com/album/soul-of-the-machine...

Hans Zimmer Next Level Giorgio III Monumental 5U Modular System

Hans Zimmer 2025 - Batman Dark Knight - Opening - Cologne / Köln - Next Level Live

video upload by C3|Nik

Pics and details below. First the video description:

"Some thoughts regarding the "Hans Zimmer - The Next Level" concert:

Amazing! Amazing! AMAZING!

I went to all shows of Hans Zimmer, some I've seen even multiple times. The sound quality of "Next Level" blew them all out of the water. It was louder, it was more intense, really top notch sound engineering. That part at 5:50 in the video was extremely intense, I have never experienced that kind of bass before. I sat close to the front, there was a line of subwoofers right in front of me, I would not be surprised if that part causes some anxiety for people, that's how intense it was.

Some pieces were re-arranged which was an interesting touch, it added a nice new dimension to it.

I can recommend it. It is expensive but a one-of-a-kind experience in my opinion."

Update: SynTesla video below added.

GIORGIO III, Hans Zimmer's monumental synthesiser manufactured by SynTesla

video upload by SynTesla

"SynTesla is the manufacturer of the gigantic GIORGIO III modular synthesiser commissioned by Hans Zimmer for his world tour 'Hans Zimmer Live The Next Level'. Discover the unboxing and assembly of this fabulous instrument."



This one is in via John L Rice.

via pidjyman on Mod Wiggler:

"The Giorgio III is a monumental 5U Modular synthesiser created by SynTesla (Pierre-Jean Tardiveau, aka pidjyman on MW) for composer Hans Zimmer for his world tour.

This synthesizer is undoubtedly the largest modular synth in the world, consisting of 12 cabinets measuring 5 x 5U + 1 x 3U in height. Only 10 cabinets are installed on stage, with two others serving as back-up behind the scenes.

This monster represents 10 months of hard work in total. 23 types of modules were designed and produced in large numbers. To give you an example, the synth is composed of 3 separate units of 4 voices each, for a total of 12 voices, with 2 VCOs, 2 DCOS, 2 filters, 6 DADSRs, 6 VCAs, 1 resonator, 4 LFOs, buffered multis, logic, attenuators, attenuverter, mixers, wavefolders, gate delays, summing mixers, etc. etc...

The modules were manufactured in France by Syntesla and designed by Yusynth and SynTesla. They were assembled in Los Angeles at Hans Zimmer's studios and then shipped to Germany for final assembly on the tour stage.

When the synth arrived in Oberhausen, Hans Zimmer had never seen it before (he was rehearsing in London while it was being assembled in LA), and I can promise you that his smile in the photo is not fake (neither is mine).

The electrical part of the cabinets was also designed and built by SynTesla. It includes an oversized power supply with a capacity of 10 amps, an active filter that provides perfectly stable and clean voltage, and a power distribution board in SynTesla and DotCom format, as well as an integrated voltmeter and ammeter. The whole system has several levels of safety.

This made it possible to connect each cabinet to a solid-state relay socket controlled by DMX from the lighting console. The robustness of the device allows the whole or part of the system to be switched on and off in sequence, depending on the pieces being played on stage."

Hesperides Mobile Synthesis Platform from Altered State Machines

From the creator of Aristotle

Currently on Kickstarter

Introducing Hesperides

Hesperides is Altered State Machines' new handheld synthesizer built

to accompany you on your venture to the outer regions of dissonance and back.

Designed for performance and explorative sonic mangling.

Every control can bring a drastic adjustment to the sound.

Go from vanilla to completely alien.

Self contained and portable, especially so with the battery pack.

Lend your support to our project, and put a little more chaos in everyone's pocket.

Altered State Machines history

Hi, we're Jesse and Ed.

Jesse became fascinated with modular synthesis around 2016 and went back to school as an electronic engineering technician to learn how to repair and create his own eurorack modules.

Altered State Machines grew out of Jesse's first project, the Aristotle sequencer which is now in its fifth iteration. Jesse is our electronics and hardware mastermind. Ed joined forces to twiddle bits with the software.

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Ableton Live Presets: 25 Free Arpeggio Racks. Sound Demo

video upload by Anton Anru

"🌌 Milky Waves is a collection of 25 arpeggiated presets for Ableton Live Instrument Rack (based on the Meld synth + effects). Each patch explores cosmic, deep, and spacious textures—designed to stretch the boundaries of a seemingly simple synth.
Milky Waves was born from a desire to unlock the creative potential of Meld, Ableton Live’s built-in synth. The aim: to show what Meld can do—transforming simple waveforms into cinematic, spacey, and deeply musical arpeggiators.

📦 Get these presets: https://antonanru.sellfy.store/p/able...
🛎 The pack is free, but any donation is appreciated.
👤 The author of the soundset is useful.

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YAMAHA MODX M Demos & Reviews

video upload by Woody Piano Shack

"YAMAHA MODX M demo and review covering all new features and comparison with original YAMAHA MODX, MODX+ and YAMAHA MONTAGE M. Covers the MODX M6, MODX M7 and MODX M8. Playing many of the sounds, piano, FM-X and AN-X."

Yamaha MODX M. The sound of Montage M for a lot less money!!

video upload by Woody Piano Shack

"With the MODX M Yamaha have just released an amazing value keyboard! If you are looking for a one synth does all live or studio keyboard you should check this out!"

Yamaha MODX M Is Here! Full Review & Comparison with Montage M

video upload by Scott's Synth Stuff

"Yamaha has finally done it — the new MODX M is here! In this video, I take an in-depth look at what’s new, what’s improved, and what’s carried over from the MODX+ and the Montage M.

We’ll break down the new AN-X virtual analog engine, expanded AWM2 element architecture, upgraded controls and interface, and how the MODX M compares to the Montage M in real-world use. I also cover performance tweaks, voice counts, processor changes, and the long-awaited inclusion of the Yamaha ESP plugin license.

If you’re a synth enthusiast, sound designer, or performer looking to see whether the MODX M is the right upgrade, this video gives you the details you won’t find in the press release.

🎹 What to expect:

Deep dive into MODX M vs MODX+ vs Montage M
New AN-X engine walkthrough
Interface and performance improvements
Honest first impressions and what Yamaha got right (and wrong)"

0:00 Intro
0:22 How Yamaha Works
0:56 Engines
1:16 Polyphony & Memory
1:59 AWM2 Element Expansion
3:14 User Library & SSS
3:43 Screen UI Speed
4:56 Faders
5:34 Encoders
6:00 Quick Edit Grid
8:01 Scene Buttons
8:15 Screen Encoders
8:51 Performance Controls
9:57 Super Knob Positions
10:43 Keybed & Aftertouch
11:08 Screen Differences
11:33 Set List Buttons
11:48 Other Differences
12:04 Yamaha ESP