Quad Arpeggiator - Solo on the Modular

video upload by Jake's Custom Shop

See the announcement post here.

Quad Arpeggiator - With VCF

video upload by Jake's Custom Shop

"What if you could solo on the modular synth like a Rock Star?
Quad Arpeggiator isn't just 4 totally independent 16-step CV sequencers. It's a synth-soloing machine. Each Arpeggio has it's own button-knob for quick adjustment. Turn a knob to set pitch, click it to go to the next step, set the pitch and repeat. Press + Hold + Turn to set arpeggio lengths from 1 to 16 steps.

But here's where it really shines. Turn any knob quick and the Quad Arpeggiator rips through a pentatonic scale like your shredding on a guitar, or keyboard. (or keytar if that's your thing). Musical expertise not required. Everything's tuned to pentatonic scale, so: it. just. sounds. awesome. period.

Four Clock Inputs, Four 1 Volt-Per-Octave CV outputs.

Back the Quad ADSR on Launch Day, (Nov 1st) and get 32% OFF + These Absolutely Crazy Bright Red 1980's Sweat Bands so you can look, feel and play your modular synth like a Rock Star"

Jake's Custom Shop Quad Arpeggiator - Eurorack Module Kickstarter

video upload by Jake's Custom Shop

"What if you could solo on the modular synth like a Rock Star?
Quad Arpeggiator isn't just 4 totally independent 16-step CV sequencers. It's a synth-soloing machine. Each Arpeggio has it's own button-knob for quick adjustment. Turn a knob to set pitch, click it to go to the next step, set the pitch and repeat. Press + Hold + Turn to set arpeggio lengths from 1 to 16 steps.

But here's where it really shines. Turn any knob quick and the Quad Arpeggiator rips through a pentatonic scale like your shredding on a guitar, or keyboard. (or keytar if that's your thing). Musical expertise not required.
Everything's tuned to pentatonic scale, so: it. just. sounds. awesome. period.

Four Clock Inputs, Four 1 Volt-Per-Octave CV outputs.

Back the Quad ADSR on Launch Day, (Nov 1st) and get 32% OFF + These Absolutely Crazy Bright Red 1980's Sweat Bands so you can look, feel and play your modular synth like a Rock Star:

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/..."

"Write Four Parts Fast.

Quad Arpeggiator gives you four independent 16-step minor pentatonic melodic lanes you can shape in real time, so hooks, basslines, counter-melodies, and fills come together fast.

How it works

Connect CV OUT 1 to a VCO.

Turn ARP 1 knob to set the pitch of your first note.

Short Press ARP 1 Knob to go to the next step.

Repeat steps 2 and 3 until you have a complete sequence.

Plug a clock signal into GATE IN 1.

Long-Press ARP 1 Knob to start/ Stop the Clock."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Side FX: RYK Modular - Beijing Modular 26

video upload by sonicstate

"We spoke to Jake from RYK Modular about Side FX a Eurorack multi-effects module built around 4 effect blocks, with user-configurable algorithms and serial or parallel routing.

Jake explained that it had just been released, and that some of its DSP comes across from Time Slice. Side Effects offers 17 effect blocks, editable presets, and the ability to save custom chains. Routing modes include straight serial processing, two parallel chains, split left/right input processing into stereo, and fully separate left and right effects chains.

The module includes four CV inputs, a clock input, and MIDI with clock and CC control. Each effect block exposes its parameters for editing, so delay taps, pitch shifting, bit crushing, saturation and other settings can be adjusted directly. Presets demonstrated included pitch-shifted comb delays, tap delays into waveshaping, delay and reverb combinations, and patches using internal modulation and an envelope follower to control feedback and reverb mix.

Side Effects is available now and costs £330 ex VAT."

XpandrLink, a native Mac/Windows editor and DAW plugin for Xpander/Matrix-12 (beta)

This one came in on the xpantastic Oberheim Matrix-12 and Xpander list. Details from the creator follow:

"I'm Jake, a Matrix-12 & Xpander owner and synth repair tech. For the past few months I've been building something that has gotten a lot of use in my studio: XpandrLink, a from-scratch C++/JUCE editor for these synths built using XplorerEditor's protocol and design as reference, with standalone, AU, and VST3 builds for both macOS and Windows. I've been really enjoying having this tool for my own purposes and wanted to share it with the community if anyone else might also find it useful.

First, the part that matters most to me. Like many of you, I've used XplorerEditor for years. It's a big reason these synths are still practical to own and play, and this project only exists because of the groundwork it laid. I started down this road after reading a note more than a year ago in the XplorerEditor README: the developer had no time to add new features but welcomed forks and PRs, and recommended a long-term JUCE port for a more modern cross-platform foundation.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Korg USA's Joe Castronovo Joins NAMM Urging Congress to Exclude Tariffs

(SEATED L-R Joe Castronovo, Jake Connolly. STANDING L-R: NY Representative Tom Souzzi, and Melissa Heche)

Press release follows:

Joseph Castronovo, President of Korg USA Joins NAMM's Washington DC Advocacy Fly-In Urging Congress to Exclude Musical Instruments, Components and Materials from Tariffs

MELVILLE, NY – On Wednesday, May 13, 2026, Joe Castronovo from Korg USA joined a delegation of NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) Members, music industry leaders, and advocacy partners to meet with members of Congress and urge relief from tariffs on musical instruments, accessories, components and raw materials. The 20th NAMM Advocacy D.C. Fly-In welcomed new and returning advocates from all over the U.S., including 100 music business leaders and professionals representing all 50 states. Joe Castronovo from Korg USA represented the state of New York as part of the delegation advocating for tariff relief that would benefit music retailers, manufacturers, educators, and students nationwide.

“Each time we come back to Washington, it reinforces how important it is for our industry to speak with one unified voice. These conversations matter - lawmakers are listening more closely, and there’s a growing understanding of how tariffs impact a highly global, specialized supply chain like ours.

But the reality is, tariffs don’t just affect manufacturers - they directly impact small retailers, increase costs for customers, and make it harder for students and first-time players to access music. That’s why it’s so important to be here: to connect policy decisions to real-world consequences and advocate for solutions that protect both our industry and access to music.” Joe Castronovo

Tariffs on musical instruments and related products threaten to raise costs for music retailers, schools, and students at a time when access to music education has never been more important. NAMM Members traveled to Capitol Hill to make the case directly to lawmakers that tariff exemptions for music products protect American jobs, support music educators, and keep instruments accessible for the next generation of musicians. Learn more: https://www.namm.org/issues-and-advocacy/fly-in

The Genius Behind Look Mum No Computer - Eurovision 2026

video upload by Britclip

"Electronic artist & YouTuber: Sam posts videos about building unique audio gear and synthesizers, alongside original music and performances. He launched his channel in 2016 after previously fronting the indie band ZIBRA.

⚙️ DIY synth wizard: He’s known for creating unusual and inventive electronic musical devices using vintage technology — including a Furby-based organ, synthesizer bicycles, Game Boy oscillators, and more — that have gained millions of views online.

🏛️ Museum founder: Sam also runs This Museum Is Not Obsolete, a space in Ramsgate, Kent (England) that showcases quirky analog tech repurposed in playful and musical ways.

🎤 Eurovision entrant: In 2026, he was selected to represent the United Kingdom at the Eurovision Song Contest under his Look Mum No Computer name — a high-profile recognition of his creativity and performance style.

In short, Sam Battle is a creative, experimental electronic musician whose blend of DIY tech, performance, and humour has built a strong global following.

#eurovision #music #synthpop #eurovisionsongcontest"

LOOK MUM NO COMPUTER - Eins, Zwei, Drei | United Kingdom 🇬🇧 | Official Music Video | #Eurovision2026

video upload by Eurovision Song Contest

LOOK MUM NO COMPUTER will represent United Kingdom at the Eurovision Song Contest with the song Eins, Zwei, Drei 🇬🇧

Credits:

Look Mum No Computer: Sam Battle
Director: Johnny Goddard (Youth Hymns)
Production Company: A Running Commentary

CLICK FOR MORE »

Plastix-Station - A little test with the NOVATION X-Station synth. A tribute to Richie Hawtin.

video upload by Jake

"A basic patch using 1 single oscillator and the 24dB mode Lowpass filter.

Afterwards, I realised that it was a tribute to Plastikman (Richie Hawtin), whose album "Consumed" is one of my favourite records.

Only the internal effects have been used in this track"

Affordable Drum Modules | Jake's Custom Shop | 808 Clones

video upload by Braintree56

"In this video, I'm sound demoing the newest drum modules from Jake's Custom Shop. These are 808 clones. No frills and very affordable!

https://jakescustomshop.com/Modules/S..."

Jake's Custom Shop Eurorack Module Demos

video uploads by Jake's Custom Shop

Jake's Custom Shop Eurorack Jams

video uploads by Jake's Custom Shop

Yamaha Portasound PC-100 Playcard system - Playing some cards

video upload by Jake

"The fun feature of this little Yamaha Portasound : score cards have data of song digitally recorded on a magnetic track on the bottom.
You can freely change rhythm, sound, mix and tempo while playing."

Bristronica 25 - RYK - Time Slice

video upload by Stromkult

"At Bristronica 2025, Mathieu visited the RYK booth where Jake showcased their full system and the latest module:

Time Slice : New 4-Track Audio Looper. Watch the powerful sampling, looping, and effects capabilities in action

Other modules:
• 185 Sequencer • Algo Complex Oscillator • Envy Machine Modulator •

more on : https://www.ryk-modular.com/"

Welson Syntex - 1975 Italian monophonic analog synthesizer short demo

video upload by Jake

"A short and quick made demo of the synth.
2 analog oscillators digitally controlled
Lowpass Ladder filter
1 lfo
1 EG"

Novation K-station, X-station, A-station, Xio, KS4 & 5 "Deep Space Kit" - Arps, drones & more

video upload by Jake

"Novation K-station - X-station - KS - Xio & A-station new bank n°2 Deep space kit

This 2nd library contains 100 new sounds for the Novation K-station synthesizer.
It mainly contains:
Complex Arpeggios
Polysynth sounds
Large pads
Special effects & drones
Solo classic sounds

00:00 - # 100 "Sweep Ice" Polyphonic bright strings
00:27 - # 113 "Flower Arp" Ambient arpeggio
01:07 - # 121 "Epic Strings" Fast analog strings
01:33 - # 109 "Debbie" Sequenced synth bass line
01:53 - # 107 "Cecile Arp" Celtic harp style arpeggio
02:25 - # 105"Silure" Underwater drone
03:03 - # 115 "Butterfly" Aerial arpeggio
03:32 - # 172 "CS81 solo" Big analog solo sounf
03:53 - # 167 "Ito Okashi" Xylophone
04:16 - # 130 "SW signal" Recieving strange radio messages
04:56 - # 138 "Gepetto" Fast thin arpeggio
05:38 - # 198 "Kiwi Dream" Fat bass synth arpeggio
06:42 - # 160 "WR Robots" Famous resonant synth bass
06:49 - # 178 "Yokota" Koto
07:22 - # 114 "Atom Arps" Sweet & light fast arpeggio
08:07 - # 173 "Mr Cairo" Tremolo nostalgic piano
08:27 - # 111 "Oily Arp 1" Shiny fast arpeggio
09:03 - # 124 "Stormy Pad" Dark and powerful polysynth pad
09:30 - # 139 "Light Wood" Organig light arpeggio
10:10 - # 165 "Gravity 2" Dark outer space drone


This library occupies slots 100-199. If you have any sounds you care about in this location, be sure to move them or make a backup.

These patches have been programmed to make the most of the modulation capabilities of the Novation engine. Thus the various expression functions are accessible via the modulation wheel

You can buy this bank here:
https://www.synthonia.com/marketplace..."

Novation K-STATION - 3 oscillators, 3 melodies

video upload by Jake

"In this video, I created a patch by trying to make each of the three oscillators play a different tone. To do this:
Each oscillator is of course pitched differently.
The PW (or wave shaper) is adjusted on each of the oscillators to the minimum or maximum extremes so that the modulation of LFO2 slowly evolves the harmonics of each, sometimes making them almost inaudible.
Finally, the modulation of the wave shaper by envelope 1 is adjusted positive or negative differently on each of the three oscillators.

A 4-note arpeggio is played in "order" mode with a range of 2 octaves.

Internal effects:
Stereo half note delay
G hall reverb
Chorus

Direct recording on Tascam DR05X at 24-bit 44.1 kHz
Mastering on Wavelab

-------

This patch is part of a series of 100 patches currently being created, available at the end of July 2025 at https://www.synthonia.com

Compatibility: K-station, X-station, A-station, KS4, KS5, KS-rack

If you like this synthesizer and my sounds, a first bank of 100 patches is available for sale here https://www.synthonia.com/marketplace..."

RYK Modular has an Envy Machine - LSPXPO 2025

video upload by sonicstate

"Jake from RYK Modular was showing *the Envy Machine*, a 4-channel modulation powerhouse."

Novation K-station - Bank 300-399 n°1

video upload by Jake

"The Novation K-station synthesizer, a descendant of the legendary Supernova, is renowned for its distinctive late 90s techno trance sound. But it would be wrong to limit it to this use only. Thanks to its advanced sound architecture with its three oscillators, the FM, the Ring modulator, and its precise 12-24 dB filter (nicknamed "Liquid filter"), it is capable of exploring the sonic worlds of legendary analog and digital machines with a very convincing result.

This library contains 100 new sounds for the Novation K-station synthesizer.
It covers a wide range of sound styles:
Arpeggios
Synthesizer basses
Large pads
Classic polyphonic sounds from the 70s & 80s
Special effects

Here is the 'Swiss Army Knife No. 1' library that will transform your little K-station.


You can buy it here : https://www.synthonia.com/marketplace...

This library occupies slots 300-399. If you have any sounds you care about in this location, be sure to move them or make a backup.

You can also load this library on the following synthesizers:
X-station
KS4, KS5, KS-rack
Xio Synth
A-station"

Novation K-Station - Who still cares about this old VA synthesizer

video upload by Jake

Custom Novation K-Station.

"The K-station is a 2002 entry level virtual analog synth from Novation.
It is derived from the A-station which is a 1 unit rack version with the same synthesis engine.
They both derive from the previous Nova and Supernova, higher-end synthesizers from 1999. The sound engine is simplified, but similar on many points
8 voices of polyphony, 400 memories, 3 oscillators per voice, 1 lowpass filter, 2 envelopes, 2 lfos and 5 cumulative effects, this is in summary the architecture of the machine.

Today totally forgotten, the K-station is nonetheless worth looking into because it is worth it.

Mine had a broken keyboard, so I transformed it into a module, which is not so bad since this 2 octave keyboard was only taking up space.

Here is a summary demo which consists of running a 2-note arpeggio on an evolving patch and changing a few parameters to bring the sequence to life. Enjoy listening!"

How To Make Dark Ambient Sounds with ELZ_1 play [Free Ambient Presets!]

video upload by SONICWARE

"ELZ_1 play" Now Available at SONICWARE Dealers Worldwide! [check with dealers on the right for availability]

This guide explains how to create dark ambient sounds using the ELZ_1 play. The sounds you'll create include four types: DRONE, PAD, ATMOS, and NOISE. After crafting each sound, we'll use the LOOPER function to put together a dark ambient track.

You can download the preset patches, including the sounds we created here, from the link below. Be sure to get them and give them a try!

https://yuendo.gumroad.com/l/dark_amb...

In this Dark Ambient Preset Collection, the four sound types—DRONE, PAD, ATMOS, and NOISE—are organized into palettes. There are nine palettes in total, containing 36 sound patches altogether. Each palette is carefully adjusted, including level settings, to work seamlessly with the looper function right out of the box.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Machina Bristronica 2024

video uploads by sonicstate

Playlist:

1. Bristronica 24: MyVolts The Silent Alchemist Nears Shipping

We caught up with Caroline who gave us the latest update to the *Silent Alchemist*, a versatile power hub designed for musicians. Featuring five isolated USB-C outputs and a high-wattage sixth output capable of delivering 100 watts, the device can power a Mac with the remaining outputs providing 20 watts each. Its independent circuits ensure noise-free operation, catering to a variety of devices including the Dreadbox module and Sysmo slope generator.

The Silent Alchemist uses innovative step-up power tips to convert USB-C input to the correct voltage for various devices. There's also new feature: an uninterruptible power supply allowing seamless transition between wall and power bank sources. Also introduced were updated cables, such as silver candy cords and floating ring TRS to TS cables, expanding connection flexibility. The Silent Alchemist is expected to be available in December with a competitive pricing strategy.

More Info:
https://myvolts.com/

2. Bristronica 24: Circuit Happy ML2M Clock Sync module updates

At Bristronica 2024, we caught up with the creator of the *ML2M*, who introduced us to the latest version. The ML2M is a compact Eurorack module with Wi-Fi capabilities, allowing seamless synchronization with Ableton Live, Bitwig Studio, and iOS music apps using Ableton Link without the need for cables. It either connects to an existing network or creates its own, ensuring robust sync even in environments with unreliable Wi-Fi. The module, which retains its 2HP size, now features MIDI integration through TRS jacks. Users can access a web interface to configure each output for different clock divisions and reset triggers, making setup straightforward and flexible.

Alongside the ML2M, there's also the Missing Link Junior. This desktop version offers the same functionality but in a box format, complete with MIDI and CV clock outputs. Both products are now accessible, with a starting price of $250.

3. Bristronica 24: Archaea Exchange Patching Module

At Machina Bristronica 2024, we caught up with Arran from ‪@archaea_modular_synthesis‬ who presented the *Exchange Module*. This programmable patcher, a year in the making, evolved from its early prototype stage to a fully functional module. Arran explained how the Exchange can route synth voices via a beam controller and three exchange modules installed within the skiff, allowing for versatile patching. Operating like a matrix patchbay, it enables users to select inputs and outputs with the push of a button, create presets, and chain multiple modules for synchronized patching.

Communication between the modules occurs over the Eurorack power bus as well as over MIDI via the USB-C connection. The Exchange maintains analog integrity, ensuring there’s no conversion latency. The forthcoming release expected in late November 2024, includes a USB-driven editor for enhanced control capabilities.

CLICK FOR MORE »

SynthfestUK 24 Synth Coverage

video uploads by sonicstate

Update: moving this post up once as new videos have been added. Bookmark this post for updates.

Use the player controls to skip around.

Playlist:

1.SynthfestUK 24: Knobula - Synth Modules and Toy Pianos

At SynthfestUK 2024, we met up again with Jason, who gaves us the updates in the world of Knobula. On display was the new 'dark mode' Poly Cinematic module, for more monochrome rigs ;-]

2. SynthFestUK 24: PWM - More Mantis News

At the show we made a beeline for the PWM stand, where Paul gave us the latest Mantis news.
And yes, it's out there in the world now!

3. SynthfestUK 24: Roland Unveils the Juno-D Series with Zen-Core Sound

We caught up with Andrew and Ludwig who showed us around the new updated Juno-D series: Juno-D6, D7, and D8. They have the same keyboard action as the Fantom-O series and a new colour screen, making it easier for performers to navigate on stage. And they can be powered by a USB-C mobile battery, perfect for buskers ;-) Running Roland's Zen-Core sound engine, they also incorporates features like a 64-step sequencer and a phrase pad for live sample triggering.
Prices range approximately from £949 to £1199.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Custom Korg R3 synthesizer plays almost alone

video upload by Jake

"In this small track, I used a combination of modulations generating multiple random arpeggios. The 4 LFOs are used to vary the pitch of the sequences played by the 2 motion sequencers. Finally, timbre #1 plays an arpeggio in ALT mode. This results in a semi-random evolution of sequences as well as sounds.At 2mn 20s, I put in the video a photo of the sketch explaining in general the architecture of this patch in order to help those who wish to program this fabulous instrument a little more in depth

The KORG R3 was used extensively for the production of my new album
Compact Music volume 2
74 minutes of ambient synthesizer music - 2020-2021
Copyright Moloski productions, Angel Freddy"