Toto’s Steve Porcaro Shows How He Created the Synth Sounds on Africa, Human Nature, Rosanna, ...

video upload by Anthony Marinelli Music

"In this monumental video, I’m sitting down in Steve Porcaro’s studio for a rare, up-close demonstartions at how one of the true synth legends created some of the most iconic sounds in music history.

What makes this so special is that Steve takes us step by step through the exact synthesizer techniques he used on massive hit records — including Michael Jackson’s 'Human Nature,' Toto’s 'Africa' and 'Rosanna,' as well as classic tracks for Hall & Oates, Don Henley, Donna Summer, and more. He also recreates these sounds on the same model vintage synthesizers he used on the original recordings.

As we dig in, Steve shares his personal approach to synthesis, how he builds multi-dimensional sounds, thinks about atmosphere and texture, and shapes parts so they serve the song emotionally, not just sonically. He also reveals how he writes out synthesizer parts on score paper, treating synths like orchestral instruments and arranging them with real intention.

This isn’t a preset rundown or surface-level demo. It’s a candid, in-studio conversation about process, musical thinking, with hands-on demonstrations from someone who helped define the sound of an era. If you’ve ever wondered how these legendary synth parts were truly made, now you can get it straight from the source, this is a moment you don’t want to miss!"

Tangible Waves Introduces WAEVE82 - Polyphonic Wavetable Oscillator in PPG Blue

"The WAEVE82 is not only a polyphonic wavetable oscillator, but actually a complete 8-voice polysynth! It combines the unmistakable charm of early digital wavetable instruments with a modern, performance-oriented workflow and a clear, page-based interface that invites exploration.

Its conceptual DNA is inspired by the PPG Wave 2 synthesizers of the 1980s — iconic instruments known for glassy timbres, animated spectra, and futuristic character.

Yet, the WAEVE82 is far from being a clone.

It draws inspiration from that lineage but follows its own path, with a unique audio engine, expanded modulation options, modern randomization tools, and a streamlined interface tailored for the AE modular format.

At its core, WAEVE82 provides:
· Two independent wavetable oscillators, with 64 internal wavetables plus support for external tables loaded from micro-SD card.
· Three envelopes and four LFOs, each with defined primary and secondary roles; LFOs can be free-running or tempo-synced
· An extensive modulation matrix, enabling both traditional and experimental routing.
· Dual operating modes:
Edit Mode for deep sound design
Perform Mode for live playability with direct access to eight favorites
· A powerful Randomize & Mutate system that generates entirely new sounds or gently transforms sounds while keeping them musical; always with restorable history. This absolutely hot; endless inspiration, endless fun!
· Save/load presets from micro-SD card
· Full IMDI/MIDI and CV/Gate integration, including an eight-voice MIDI engine and flexible chord generation from CV,, plus additional CV/Gate inputs for additional control. IMDI and CV control can run parallel.

Shipping starts in second half of January 2026."

ARTURIA Introduces AstroLab 37 | Avant-garde stage keyboard

video uploads by Arturia

Check with dealers on the right for availability and pricing.

"Imagine a compact keyboard uniting the most iconic sounds in a single instrument. Engineered for liftoff, AstroLab 37 redefines what a compact performance keyboard can be, combining an unrivalled sound palette, intuitive controls, and a seamless studio-to-stage workflow – play and create beyond limits."

Playlist:

1. AstroLab 37 | Avant-garde stage keyboard | ARTURIA
2. Overview | AstroLab 37
3. Is the Arturia AstroLab 37 the Best Compact Stage Keyboard? - Reverb (available here)
4. Arturia Astrolab 37 vs 61/88 // and a cheat to give it more hands-on control // Review, tutorial - loopop
5. Arturia AstroLab 37 Review – After 6 Weeks of Real Use - Sineway
6. Arturia Astrolab 37 Review - Molten Music Technology
7. Is this the Ultimate Portable Performance Synth? Arturia AstroLab 37 Review & Demo - Starsky Carr

"Arturia releases AstroLab 37, a compact stage keyboard that brings the full power of the AstroLab ecosystem into a portable, performance-ready format.

Completing the AstroLab line-up, it delivers the same deep sound engines, streamlined workflow, and studio-to-stage continuity as the 61- and 88-key models - now in a 37-key, road-ready design that makes it the ultimate creative companion on the move.

_Ignite your inspiration
Engineered for liftoff, AstroLab 37 redefines what a compact performance keyboard can be. Combining an unrivalled sound palette with intuitive controls and a seamless studio-to-stage experience - perform with confidence and limitless sonic freedom.

Featuring a 37-key slim keybed with aftertouch, a vocoder, and powerful creative tools, turn any idea into fast-moving solos, dynamic leads, and unforgettable hooks."



AstroLab 37 packs the power of the AstroLab range into a compact format.

Engineered for liftoff, AstroLab 37 redefines what a compact performance keyboard can be. Combining an unrivaled sound palette with intuitive controls and a seamless studio-to-stage experience, it empowers musicians to perform with confidence and limitless sonic freedom.

Built on 25 years of innovation, it frees keyboardists from constraints with 11 advanced sound engines, seamless workflow, and a playing experience that’s intuitive, expressive, and fearless.

This isn’t just a new keyboard. It’s a new era.

Ignite your inspiration.

Instantly access a universe of reference synths, classic keyboards, acoustic instruments, and cinematic hybrids - all deeply customizable via onboard controls. The 37 slim-key slim keyboard with aftertouch, vocoder, and performance modes turns ideas into fast-moving solos, dynamic leads, and unforgettable hooks.

Own the stage.

Purpose-built for live: rugged, responsive, and completely standalone. Power up, pick a sound, shape it in real-time and deliver pure musical expression wherever you play - ultra-low latency.

Compact by design.

From studios and stages to bedrooms and DJ booths, AstroLab 37 adapts to every space. Road-ready construction, expressive keys, and instant sound recall make it the ultimate creative companion on the move.

Made to explore.

Edit your presets on-the-fly or dive deeper with Analog Lab on desktop or AstroLab Connect on mobile. Seamlessly transition between studio and stage and let your creativity flow uninterrupted, exactly the way you want it.

AstroLab 37 is a versatile, lightweight companion for musicians who move between studio, stage, and multi-instrument setups — ideal as a second keyboard for band members, a flexible live instrument, or a portable tool for producers on the go.

● 44 instruments, 11 sound engines, 1.800+ presets
● 37 slim keys with aftertouch
● 10 instant-access preset buttons
● 4 macro knobs with LED feedback
● 4 FX knobs, including dedicated Delay & Reverb
● Vocoder-ready mono input
● Color screen + navigation encoder for fast browsing
● Software ecosystem: Analog Lab Pro + AstroLab Connect
● Extensive connectivity: MIDI I/O, USB-C, USB-A host, balanced
mono I/O, mic input, Bluetooth audio, WiFi, pedal input

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.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Reminder: Minimoog Prototype Exhibit, Erik Norlander Keyboard Sale Price Drop, Mini Minimoogs & More

via The Bob Moog Foundation

Minimoog Prototype Exhibit At the Moogseum This Weekend Only!

The anticipation is almost over! We are thrilled to be hosting the Minimoog Prototype Exhibit at the Moogseum, this weekend only, in partnership with the Museum of Music Technology (MMT). The exhibit will feature four ultra rare Minimoog prototypes from 1969, 1970, and 1971, as well as a host of related artifacts from the Bob Moog Foundation Archives.

We are honored to have JoE Silva, author of The Minimoog Book: The Synthesizer That Changed Music Forever: Sounds, Stories, and Technology join us throughout the weekend of the exhibit. He'll be on hand to delve into the history of the Minimoog with exhibit attendees and sign books in the Moogseum store.

We're excited to share a new addition to the exhibit. MMT will be bringing Minimoog serial number 1016 (the sixteenth Minimoog ever produced out of 12,269 units), which was purchased in 1971 by none other than David VanKoevering, the marketing genius behind the early Minimoog sales. David's Minimoog will be available for exhibit attendees to play and explore. Come get you hands on this incredible piece of synthesizer history!

Finally, be sure to take advantage of the morning tours with our executive director, Michelle Moog-Koussa. Michelle will be delving into Minimoog history as it is conveyed through the main gallery of the Moogseum. She doesn't give tours often, so take advantage of this opportunity. The tours are available for a small fee for any exhibit attendee.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Waldorf Iridium/Quantum - "Enigmatica" (50 Exclusive Presets)

video upload by LFOstore

"Michael Cretu's "Enigma" defined an era with its fusion of Gregorian chants, hypnotic grooves and seductive whispers. His debut album became an instant classic, selling millions and shaping the sound of ambient, new age and cinematic music. Tracks like "Sadness," "Principles of Lust," and "Beyond the Invisible" transported listeners to a world of mystery, spirituality, and sensuality—forever changing the landscape of electronic music.

This signature soundset transforming the iconic Enigma palette into something both familiar and breathtakingly new, leverages the Iridium's unparalleled processing power to create! Here you will find evolving pads, drum sequences, sampled voices, classical enigmatic sounds (flutes, bells) and many more! Created by OttO K. Schwarz, LFO Store co-founder and renowned sound designer collaborated with Access Music, Modal Electronics, Native Instruments and other market leaders.

All presets are modulation wheel - assigned. The soundset is perfect for ambient, new age & cinematic music producers, film scoring and soulful media production. Enigmatica for Waldorf’s finest synths doesn't just recreate history – it reimagines it through the lens of tomorrow's technology!

Please download the soundset here - https://ottolfo.sellfy.store/waldorf"

Teenage Engineering Introduces EP–40 riddim n' EP–2350 ting

video upload by teenage engineering

"EP–40 riddim is a powerful sampler, sequencer and composer built for expressive live performance, with a powerful loop engine, and reggae-inspired FX. it comes packed with over 400 handcrafted instruments and sounds from iconic reggae producers, plus a synth engine with classic bass and lead tones and pressure-sensitive dub sirens. EP–2350 ting is a handheld performance mic with built-in effects and samples. connect it directly to riddim, or any sound system."

Riffin’ on the EP-40 Supertone - Teenage Engineering EP-40/EP-2350 Riddim and Ting

video upload by NOISEBUG

"The EP40/2350 is in stock at Noisebug, ready to ship today!

Teenage Engineering - EP-40, the newest member of the EP line is here. Now for the first time there are synthesizer engines built in. Layer all of your samples with fresh bass lines, leads and pads without losing any fidelity. There is also a new sample loop mode for toggling longer loops on and off. The ultimate layering machine!

EP-2350 Ting is a handheld vocal effects microphone and sample trigger. You can sample directly into the Riddim via Ting (or any external source)

Riddim comes stocked with almost 1,000 sounds, loops, one-shots and synthesizer engines. All sounds in this video are from the stock pre-loaded selection"

EP–40 RIDDIM is a powerful sampler, sequencer and composer built for expressive live performance, featuring tightly synced MIDI sequences, grid-synced loops, and reggae-inspired FX for real-time sound shaping. it comes packed with over 300 handcrafted instruments and sounds from iconic reggae producers, plus a synth engine with classic bass and lead tones and pressure-sensitive dub sirens.

EP–2350 TING is a handheld performance mic with built-in effects and samples. connect it directly to RIDDIM or any sound system.

product highlights:
EP–40 riddim:
12 stereo / 16 mono poly voices
128MB system memory
subtractive synth engine
grid-synced loops
9 user-editable projects
7 main fx and 12 punch-in™ fx
pressure sensitive keys and multifunctional fader
sampling frequency: 46 kHz / 16-bit
stereo in/out, sync in/out, midi in/out and usb-c
dimensions: 240 x 176 x 16 mm | 9.5 x 7 x 0.7 in

EP–2350 ting:
4 live voice effects: echo, echo+spring, pixie, robot
4 replaceable samples to trigger straight from the mic
live adjustable effects parameters
line out on 3.5 mm curly cable
lo-fi by design

CRUMAR SORRENTO Organ Deep Dive Demos w/ Woody Piano Shack

video upload by Woody Piano Shack

Playlist:

1. CRUMAR SORRENTO Organ Deep Dive Demo

"Exploration of the Hammond organ sound engines and controls on the new CRUMAR SORRENTO organ. Let's play and listen to how closely it emulates the classic Hammonds, such as B3, A100, C3 and more! You be the judge."

2. NEO VENTILATOR 2 Demo, Tutorial & Review

Demo, Tutorial and Review of the NEO INSTRUMENTS VENTILATOR II Rotary Speaker Simulation Pedal, an emulation of the iconic LESLIE 122 used with HAMMOND B3 ORGAN. We connect it to the CRUMAR SORRENTO ORGAN and thoroughly test it out. The Vent pedals are also extremely popular with guitarists so perhaps we can check that out in the future.

3. CRUMAR SORRENTO - Hammond B3 Organ Sounds

All-playing no-talking demo of the newly released CRUMAR SORRENTO ORGAN and CRUMAR BURN 2025 ROTARY SPEAKER SIMULATOR PEDAL. Listen and judge the sounds for yourself (but don't judge me)!

4. CRUMAR SORRENTO Detailed Overview & Demo

Unboxing, demo and first impressions review of the brand new CRUMAR SORRENTO ORGAN, an emulation of the classic iconic vintage HAMMOND ORGAN and LESLIE SPEAKER with the all-new CRUMAR BURN 2025 ROTARY SPEAKER PEDAL.

Featuring music from Sweden's finest Hammond organists, Pierre Swärd and Andreas Hellkvist.

Photos from Hammond B3 Appreciation Group on Facebook and from organ fanatic and friend of the channel Nate Down Under.

Lesson packs available for one-time purchase on Patreon.

MORE WOODY PIANO SHACK: https://woodypianoshack.com

Give Me 7 Minutes - Unbelievable LoFi Track From Scratch with The Kiviak Wofi Sampler

video upload by SYNTH SAMURAI

"⁠The Kiviak Instruments WoFI is a portable Sampler keyboard that connects to the internet via WiFi, and features an innovative effect module called Texturer that combines elements of shimmer and granular synthesis to create unique and fascinating sounds. Its compact size and intuitive interface make it an ideal tool for musicians and producers who are always on the move. In addition, WoFI comes with a rechargeable battery, allowing you to create music anywhere you go without worrying about power. You can also share your patches and access sound banks from other sound designers through the mywo.fi community platform. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned professional, WoFI offers endless possibilities for exploring new sonic territories and creating unique sounds."

CLICK FOR MORE »

KORG Collection 6 - TRINITY: The 1995 Icon Reborn

video upload by Korg

CLICK FOR MORE »

Korg PS-3200 (1978) - Professionally Restored Full System

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

via this Reverb listing

"Korg PS-3200 - A fully configured system that's been fully cosmetically and operationally restored.

One of the finest fully configured surviving examples of Korg’s iconic PS-3200 — a true masterpiece of 1970s analogue engineering, fully restored for the modern collector.

Servicing Status

KSR has undertaken an extensive cosmetic and operational restoration of this PS-3200, a project spanning several years but largely completed by the end of 2024 — thanks to the exceptional work of Kent Spong of KSR. The Korg has been held in our secure facility throughout 2025, so post-sale, we will have the instrument and all accessories fully checked before shipping or delivering to the new owner. This process will add approximately 10 to 14 days to the post-sale completion time.

Remarks

We have decided to offer for sale our complete Korg PS-3200 System, which forms part of the RL Music Vintage Synthesizer Collection. Over the last 22 years, we’ve retained a small number of the finest vintage synthesizers to pass through our hands — instruments we found particularly inspiring or significant. This PS-3200 is one such example and has been the subject of a full and detailed cosmetic and operational restoration by our trusted vintage synth technician, Kent Spong of KSR.

It is generally accepted that Korg produced only around 200 units of the PS-3200, although the exact number is difficult to verify. Whether 100 or 500 were made, production was certainly very limited, making this an exceptionally rare, hand-built instrument by any measure.

Due to the rarity and individual nature of instruments like this, we’ve taken great care to provide a comprehensive and honest description of this PS-3200. We encourage any prospective buyer to ensure they have all the information needed to make an informed purchase decision — and of course, we are happy to answer any questions directly.

Provenance

We purchased this PS-3200 from a UK seller (an experienced user) in 2015 and collected it personally from their studio in the South of England. At the time, the instrument was fully working but had not been professionally serviced, so we decided to retain it within our PS-series collection — completing the full lineup — and plan its restoration later.

The overall condition was original and very good but showing signs of cosmetic age typical for a 35+-year-old synthesizer. We therefore elected to undertake a full operational and cosmetic restoration. While the market for highly restored vintage synths has cooled in recent years — as values for unrestored examples have climbed — our motivation for this restoration was personal rather than commercial, as the PS-3200 has always been part of our private collection.

System Configuration

PS-3200 Main Frame
PS-3010 Keyboard Controller
PS-3001 Interconnect Cable
PS-3030 Remote
PS-3001 Interconnect Cable (second)
PS-3040 Dual Pedal
Kenton MIDI Retrofit Kit fitted
This particular PS-3200 includes the extremely rare PS-3030 Remote, a unique device allowing live performers access to the patch memories — a groundbreaking feature for 1978.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Erik Norlander's Roland Alpha Juno-1 49-Key 6-voice Programmable Polyphonic Synthesizer SN 856227

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.
video upload by moogfoundation

via this Reverb listing

"The Alpha Juno-1 (1985–1988) is Roland’s compact follow-up to the legendary Juno line, bringing classic analog warmth into a streamlined design. Famous for its lush chorus and the iconic “Hoover” sound, this synth remains a favorite for both vintage collectors and modern producers looking for character.

Key features:

6-voice polyphony with one DCO + sub-oscillator per voice
24 dB/oct analog resonant low-pass filter
Onboard chorus, portamento, chord memory, and transpose
64 user + 64 preset patches, cassette backup
MIDI In/Out/Thru for modern integration
This unit functions normally and shows no serious cosmetic issues except for a small 1” crack above one of the rear panel screws; not too noticeable. A great opportunity to own one of Roland’s most accessible and iconic mid-’80s instruments.

Note: 30% of proceeds benefit the Bob Moog Foundation."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Harmonium VST FREE With Crow Hill VAULTS

video upload by CROW HILL

"With Theo off on hols this week Christian opens the lid on one of his favourite instruments, The Harmonium. Think Penguin Cafe Orchestra, think Jon Brion, think a leading (albeit inanimate) character in Punch Drunk Love."

Press release follows:

The Crow Hill Company announces availability of VAULTS - HARMONIUM, bringing bellows to DAWs as latest free VI abiding by its Make Music, Your Music motto

EDINBURGH, UK: The Crow Hill Company is proud to announce availability of VAULTS - HARMONIUM — bringing bellows to DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations) as its latest free VI (Virtual Instrument) monthly drop, allowing anyone to experience the timbral complexities and harmonic layers of its gorgeous and, some might say, quaint instrument namesake for the rest of their lives, abiding, as always, by the Edinburgh-based enterprise creators’ collective Make Music, Your Music motto — as of October 24…

Its iconic appearance in Director/Writer Paul Thomas Anderson’s 2002-released dark romantic comedy Punch: Drunk Love — look it up! — may make many think of the harmonium in a certain way. What is certain, though, is that the small free-reed organ was patented way before, back in 1842 by Frenchman Alexandre Debain. By being smaller and less expensive than traditional pipe organs, it quickly became popular through Europe, India, Africa, and the southern United States. Travelling through the north of the UK, harmoniums can still be found tucked away in the corners of many recording studios. Saying that, those that are there are not just set dressing; after all, the harmonium captured the hearts of artists such as The Beatles, Supertramp, Penguin Cafe Orchestra, and Tori Amos, all of whom featured it in their music.

Making music with a harmonium is easier said than done, however, since the instrument in question generates sound by pumping air — using two foot-operated pedals joined to a mechanism that operates a bellows or by pushing and pulling a handle joined to the bellows back and forth with one hand — past a thin piece of metal in a frame and making it vibrate. Vibrations then resonate through the harmonium’s wooden body, thereby producing the distinctive, church-like sound. Thankfully, The Crow Hill Company has succeeded in capturing this sound to produce VAULTS - HARMONIUM, making it much easier for many more appreciative sound-seekers to experience its musical magic.

Composer Christian Henson — original founder of The Crow Hill Company — freely admits to being a big fan: “It’s got to be one of my favourite instruments. It can bring a simplicity to music — dare I say it, a quaintness, but because of its timbral complexities, it’s also massively expressive.”

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Iconic British OSCar Synth is Reborn

video upload by Starsky Carr

Guestimate price (just after 6:50) of £2.5k GBP which comes to $3371 USD.

"The legendary OSCar synthesizer is back! In this video, I'm joined by Paul from PWM Instruments, who recently acquired the rights to the Oxford Synth Company. In this he talks us through their new synth - a modern recreation of the iconic OSCar - a secret weapon for artists like Jean-Michel Jarre, Ultravox, Stevie Wonder, Orbital, and Underworld - and explains how the new OSCar stays true to the original’s gritty charm while adding modern upgrades for today’s producers.

Its currently at prototype stage - but the proof of concept has been demonstrated, so the next stage is to mould it into a commercial product.

Whether you’re a synth enthusiast, a producer hunting for that British synth grit, or just curious about iconic electronic instruments, this deep-dive demo will show you why the OSCar still inspires decades later.

Hear a short demo of the unmistakable OSCar growl, discover its quirks, and see why this rebirth matters for synth lovers everywhere."

AKAI Introduces the MPC LIVE III

video uploads by Akai Professional

Note here are 24 vidoes in the playlist above. Use the player controls to skip around.

Check with dealers on the right for price and availability.

Review: MPC Live III vs Live II // What's in the Pro Pack? // Using MPCe & Matrix // Live 3 Tutorial

video upload by loopop

TIMELINE:
0:00 Intro
1:20 vs Live II
2:00 MPCe pads
3:20 Articulations
4:10 Touch strip
5:05 Mic test
5:30 More power
7:00 New features
7:45 I/O
9:25 Content
9:55 Using MPCe
13:00 Drum seq
15:05 Note Seq
16:40 Step edit
17:35 Last step
18:00 Automation
18:35 Other modes
19:45 Macro buttons
22:00 Clip matrix
25:20 Rec to arrange
26:15 Live looping
27:10 Snapshots
28:50 Clip settings
30:35 Sequences
31:00 Super stretch
31:50 New stems
32:30 New FX
33:20 Env follower
34:00 CV tools
35:10 MPC Desktop
35:30 Pros & cons




KEY FEATURES

[NEW] Expressive pads

16 MPCe pads with 3D-sensing technology for flexible music production and expressive performance

CLICK FOR MORE »

Roland Introduces the TR-1000 Rhythm Creator w/ TR-808 and TR-909 Analog Drum Circuitry

video uploads by RolandChannel

The TR-1000 is available now for $2,699.99. Check with dealers on the right for availability.

"The TR-1000’s analog engine features 16 of the most coveted circuits from the TR-808 and TR-909, faithfully recreated from the original designs with detailed engineering and carefully selected modern components. Alongside the TR-1000’s analog voices are powerful digital sounds driven by Roland’s latest advancements, including 21 circuit-bent TR-808 and TR-909 models built with Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) technology, FM percussion, virtual analog tones, and a deep PCM library for sonic exploration and fresh textures."

Playlist:

1. Roland TR-1000 Rhythm Creator | Egyptian Lover Performance
2. Roland TR-1000 Rhythm Creator | Everything You Need to Know

User videos followed by hi-res pics and the press release:

CLICK FOR MORE »

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.

CLICK FOR MORE »

NEO VENTILATOR 2 Demo, Tutorial & Review

video upload by Woody Piano Shack

"Demo, Tutorial and Review of the NEO INSTRUMENTS VENTILATOR II Rotary Speaker Simulation Pedal, an emulation of the iconic LESLIE 122 used with HAMMOND B3 ORGAN. We connect it to the CRUMAR SORRENTO ORGAN and thoroughly test it out. The Vent pedals are also extremely popular with guitarists so perhaps we can check that out in the future.

MORE WOODY PIANO SHACK
https://woodypianoshack.com"

Introducing LCO Producer Strings by Native Instruments

videos upload by Native Instruments

"Step inside the studio with the London Contemporary Orchestra – boundary-breaking musicians known for bold orchestrations and collaborations with Frank Ocean, Taylor Swift, Radiohead, and beyond. Shape colourful string textures with expressive four-layer control and creative articulations, all recorded at London’s iconic RAK Studios."

Press release follows:


Add magic to your music with the London Contemporary Orchestra

Get in the conductor's chair and guide the avant-garde orchestra with NI’s latest Kontakt instrument

Berlin, September 25, 2025 – Native Instruments is proud to present LCO Producer Strings. The new Kontakt instrument puts the sound of one of the world’s most adventurous ensembles into the hands of producers everywhere, from bedroom creators to film composers. An ensemble celebrated for its fearless and innovative approach, the LCO has scored award-winning films like Deadpool & Wolverine, and collaborated with visionary artists including Radiohead, Frank Ocean, Taylor Swift, and The Weeknd.

LCO Producer Strings delivers emotional depth through modern, gritty, and glitchy string textures, with all sounds captured at London’s iconic RAK Studios in partnership with acclaimed engineer Fiona Cruickshank.

The instrument is built around a flexible four-layer engine that lets users stack violins, violas, cellos, and synths sections into kaleidoscopic textures. Explore the beauty of raw organic sounds or blend them with evolving synth beds and granular textures for unique hybrid timbres. Unique articulations like cluster blooms, harmonic flickers and percussive pizzicatos add an avant-garde flair.

“LCO Producer Strings makes the unique and striking sound of the London Contemporary Orchestra available to everyone. The world-class musicians, studio, engineer, sampling techniques, and intuitive instrument engine combine to give producers and songwriters the freedom to craft strings that are as bold and unconventional as their ideas”, Tim Adnitt, VP, Product Management, Native Instruments.

“For us, it’s about reimagining what an orchestra can be. This collaboration lets us capture the raw, experimental spirit of the LCO and place it directly in the hands of artists and producers - opening new possibilities for how expressive strings can be shaped and integrated into modern music production.” Hugh Tieppo-Brunt, co-Artistic Director & co-Principal Conductor, London Contemporary Orchestra.

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Introducing the Sequential Fourm

video upload by Sequential

Update: the first user videos added below. Note: this post is pinned on top, see below for new posts going up throughout the day.]

"Fourm 4-voice analog synth with polyphonic aftertouch

Fourm is a compact analog synthesizer that invites you to play, shape, and perform with unprecedented expression. With its legendary Sequential tone, hands-on modulation, and uniquely responsive Tactive™ keybed, Fourm is a creative partner helping to bring your musical ideas to life.

Synth sounds and drums exclusively by Fourm. Composed by Peter Dyer."

https://sequential.com

See the dealers on the right of the site for availabily.

User videos:



Playlist:

1. The new Sequential Fourm in 60 seconds! #analogsynth #synth - Available at Signal Sounds
2. Sequential FOURM -- J3PO demo & overview
3. Sequential Fourm Analog Synth INHALT Demo & Discussion
4. Sequential FOURM Review — Classic synth sounds in a small package! - BoBeats
5. Introducing the Sequential Fourm Synth | First Look & Demo - Gear4music Synths & Tech
6. Sequential Fourm: Poly aftertouch, stacked waves, expressive arps – First look and sound demo - MusicRadar Tech
7. Sequential Fourm Performances & Overview - Sweetwater Soundcheck
8. SEQUENTIAL FOURM: the synth we’ve ALL been waiting for? - Projet Home Studio

Press release and pics follow:


Sequential Introduces Fourm: A Four-Voice Analog Synth with Polyphonic Aftertouch

A New Fourm of Expression

San Francisco, CA — September 23, 2025 — Sequential has announced the release of its most affordable, synthesizer to date. Fourm is a compact, 100% analog instrument that redefines expressive electronic performance. With its warm, organic tone, hands-on modulation routing, and a uniquely responsive polyphonic aftertouch keyboard, Fourm is ready to bring your musical ideas to life.

At its core, Fourm delivers four analog voices of genuine Sequential sound, derived from the legendary Prophet-5 — complete with dual oscillators, a classic 4-pole lowpass filter, and envelope curves modeled after the 1978 original. The result is unmistakable Sequential warmth and punch, now with overdriven feedback for a performance-ready edge.

For the first time in 40 years, Sequential has returned to polyphonic aftertouch. The team developed the new Tactive™ slim-keys poly AT keybed to work in concert with Fourm’s analog synthesis engine. Every element was co-designed and precisely calibrated to unlock new levels of expression, enabling a deeper connection to our signature sound that no off-the-shelf keybed could deliver. The result is a more expressive bond between player and instrument, energizing new modes of creativity.

“Wowww holy smokes: this thing sounds and feels amazing,” said Bryn Bliska, (keyboards for Chappell Roan, Maggie Rogers, Jacob Collier). “The polyphonic aftertouch is seriously so fun… Sequential nailed it.”

“We’re so excited to bring this innovative all-analog keyboard into the world,” said David Gibbons, Sequential CEO. “At a price-point that most people expect to pay for a monophonic synth, we think this product will invite legions of musicians who have longed for the magic of polyphonic analog sounds to start their journey of discovery with Sequential.”

Notably inspired by the Pro~One, Fourm’s top-panel modulation matrix puts deep sound design at your fingertips—no menu diving required. Modulation sources and destinations are clearly labeled, connections are made with a button press, and color-coded indicators make even complex routings easy to manage.

With its compact footprint, professional-grade build, and a sound engine rooted in Sequential’s most iconic instruments, Fourm is a powerful new voice in analog synthesis.

About Sequential
Sequential has been at the forefront of synthesizer innovation since 1974, creating instruments that inspire musicians and shape the sound of modern music. With a legacy built on the iconic Prophet synthesizers, Sequential continues to push the boundaries of sound design with cutting-edge technology and exceptional craftsmanship.

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