"Here’s a fast, no-talk demo of SQUID-3 (SQ-3), the new synth by Acustica Audio. This video is all about listening: no voice-over, no explanations — just sounds and visuals so you can get a first impression of what this synth can do.
In this demo I’m simply showcasing a selection of patches and musical textures. I’m not going into technical details or deep sound-design features this time — think of this as a relaxed, musical overview rather than a tutorial.
If you’re curious about the engine, workflow, or a more in-depth breakdown, feel free to leave a comment and I may cover it in a future video. For now, just sit back and enjoy the sound."
SQUID-3 is a forward-thinking synthesizer born from Acustica’s groundbreaking MAREA series, available in VST3, AU, and AAX formats. Built to respond better than a real instrument, SQUID-3 gives you the speed to create instantly, and the depth to design without limits. It’s fluid, focused, and sonically honest.
This isn’t a vintage emulation, or a collection of pretty presets under reverb.
SQUID-3 fuses algorithmic modeling with advanced convolution, capturing the behavior of analog gear - better than gear does.
SQUID-3 is not another virtual synth.
It’s a new breed - designed to sound finished, even before the FX.
Every stage of its engine, from oscillator to output, was built to make raw synthesis sound like a mastered record.
SQUID-3 is available in two separate editions:
• the Standard (3-D, multi-page) edition, hardware-inspired interface with depth, lighting, and tactile realism for an immersive studio feel.
• a Flat (2-D version, single-page) edition, A clean, flat design optimized for speed, built for maximum graphic efficiency, where all controls are summarized on a single page"
"Original Korg PolySix from 1981 in Very Good condition, everything working, no yellowing. Originally bought from Japan.
No MIDI upgrade. All original hardware. Every key works with no problems and every function throughout the entire unit is in good working condition. Wood panels in good condition, natural wearing on some corners and a few nicks on the bottom but overall very good for it's age. Metal panel on front has light scratch on the left side (pictured) and a few nicks on the edges towards the back, but overall nothing huge cosmetically. Key bed in good shape, almost mint condition. Used very lovingly for about a year, many recordings done with it.
It's very good for gritty 80's sounds, people often compare it to the Juno but I'd more so compare the sound to that of something by Sequential Circuits like the Prophet series, with a key bed that feels like a Juno, while any remaining character is completely it's own. It even gives some effects to play with that come from the turn of a knob, letting you enable Chorus, Phaser, or both while letting you change the intensity via the knob next to it.
I've included a demo of what this particular unit sounds like, playing Eyes by Clio, produced by Roberto Ferrante who also used only a Korg Polysix for the synth tracks.
Some other notable uses of this synth off the top of my head are Faces (Clio, 1985), Start Of The Breakdown (Tears for Fears, 1983), Subways Of Your Mind (FEX, 1984), Till The End Of Time/Animal In Me (Affair, 1984), Under The Ice (Topo & Roby, 1984), and just any underground European artists from the early 80s."
Today, we are excited to officially announce the CME H12MIDI Pro, a next-generation USB Host MIDI hub created hand-in-hand with our global community of musicians, engineers, producers, and gear enthusiasts.
The H12MIDI Pro is the latest evolution in CME’s standalone MIDI ecosystem — a compact, portable, ultra-fast USB Host + TRS MIDI interface designed to bring complete flexibility to modern hybrid setups.
Whether you’re working exclusively with hardware instruments or combining synths, pedals, controllers, and DAWs, the H12MIDI Pro provides a unified foundation for your entire MIDI workflow.
A Crowd-Created MIDI Brain
The H12MIDI Pro began as a user-driven idea inside our CME community. Members asked for more ports, more presets, more routing options, and a more compact form factor.
Together, we turned those requests into reality.
This device is not just built for musicians — it’s built with them.
Key Features 6× USB-C Host ports (expandable to 16-in / 16-out with a USB hub) 6× TRS MIDI IN + 6× TRS MIDI OUT - 3.5mm (1/8”) - Type A/B selectable) 1× USB-C Client port providing 8×8 USB MIDI connectivity for macOS, Windows, iOS, Android, Linux, and ChromeOS. Up to 480 MIDI channels across host, client, and TRS ports Near-zero latency performance, opto-couplers, and 32-bit processor Dual-power support: USB-C 5V or 9V DC 25-LED feedback system for instant visual monitoring Compact 148 × 60 × 33 mm chassis, only 208 g Standalone routing, filtering, mapping, and up to 6 presets, all configurable through the HxMIDI Tools software (Win/Mac/Android/iOS/Linux) for deep customization and control. Presale Information The first production run will be limited to 400 units. Presale begins January 2026, with shipping scheduled to begin February 2026.
Early registrants receive: 24-hour early access Special presale price: US$139 (regular US$199 MAP/MSRP) Free local shipping with no import fees to the US, UK, EU, CA, JP, and AU
"In this video, I walk through three practical grain-processing techniques for beat makers using granular synthesis. Instead of the usual pads and soundscape examples, I’m focusing on drums and rhythmic material — showing how grains can shape feel, create modulation effects, add tonal character, and even move into wavetable-style synthesis.
These examples use loops from Joshua Van Tassel, part of the upcoming Odd-1 factory library. The Odd-1 is a modular grain synthesizer we’ve been developing at Oddment, and all of these techniques can be recreated directly on the hardware.
Techniques covered: • Tempo-locked grains for changing the feel • Grain-size modulation and rhythmic dropouts • Tonal effects using closely spaced grains • Wavetable-like sounds from tiny slices of audio
If you’re interested in granular synthesis, drum processing, time-stretching, or experimental beat-making techniques, you’ll probably find something useful here.
We’re finishing up the first small production run of the Odd-1. If you’d like updates or want to join the waitlist, you can do that on our website: https://www.oddment-audio.com/waitlist
Follow us on instagram for more tips and demos: / oddmentaudio
Credits / Gear: – Odd-1 Modular Grain Synth: https://www.oddment-audio.com/odd-1 – Drum loops by Joshua Van Tassel: https://www.joshuavt.com – Intro/Outro music by Lee Clarke: https://leeclarke.bandcamp.com – Ableton Live for comparison examples If you have questions or want a deep dive into a specific part of granular synthesis or beat processing, feel free to leave a comment."
"Afternoon exploration session with 3 silver boxes, the Elektron Machinedrum handling the beat and the classic SID Station led by the Lightreft Monolit on the 2.0β firmware.
Machinedrum keeps things tight and mechanical while the SID Station focuses on texture. Bit-grit, noise edges, and shifting timbres.
Just experimenting, seeing how far the monolit can take Midi Automation over an IDM groove. #machinedrum #sidstation #idm"
####
The LightReft Monolit made its first appearance on the site earlier this month in another video by HANJŌ.
The following is a playlist featuring dditional demos, followed by some pics and details further below.
Playlist (in most recent order - video 7 is from one year ago):
1. Monolit Sequencer
2. Machinedrum + Monolit : Simple Setup
3. MONOLIT x DECKARD'S DREAM MK2
4. Monolit: Quick Tips for Hardware Users
In this video, we demonstrate how Monolit connects seamlessly with synths, grooveboxes, and samplers — no computer needed. No deep menus, no distractions — just a clean interface and immediate control.
We explore different scenarios where Monolit shines: real-time MIDI control, clock generation, note and CC mapping, automation, and even gamepad integration. Hand-built in Japan, Monolit is a minimal yet powerful tool for artists seeking intuitive, hands-on control.
5. Monolit Firmware 1.2.0: Unlocking New MIDI Control Features!
In this video, we dive into the new features introduced in Monolit firmware v1.2.0. From advanced MIDI routing to external slider control and dynamic button functions — Monolit just got a serious upgrade. We’re showcasing a dual-Monolit setup, where one unit controls the other, which is connected to an Elektron Monomachine.
6. Monolit × Octatrack — Live Performance Control Demo | LightReft
Welcome to the first tutorial on the MONOLIT device! In this 40+ minute video, you’ll get acquainted with the essential settings, programming, and MIDI control on MONOLIT, while exploring the device’s unique capabilities. This session covers the key aspects of working with MONOLIT, making it an ideal guide for musicians and producers who want to master its full potential.
Main topics covered: Initial setup and connecting MONOLIT Programming and MIDI control Using functions and operational modes
Dive into the world of sound with this introduction to MONOLIT! Tutorial by Tim Shatny.
"MONOLIT by Light Reft
A smart, modular MIDI computer built for live performance and smooth integration with any setup.
Monolit is not a controller you map once to forget.
It is a playable instrument - a physical interface that lets you shape sound through motion, record gestures as automation, and turn parameters into something alive.
Designed for those who don’t just adjust sound, but perform it.
WHY MONOLIT?
A motion driven MIDI instrument for live sound shaping, expressive sequencing, and gestural automation. 8 banks with 64 controls per preset Real-time MIDI automation and parameter morphing Seamless DAW + hardware integration USB, TRS-MIDI, external device support Customizable, minimal, and fast. MEET MONOLIT, YOUR NEW MULTIFUNCTIONAL MIDI COMPANION! MONOLIT by Light Reft is a cutting-edge, multifunctional MIDI-computer that transforms your music production experience. Designed for musicians who seek precision and flexibility, MONOLIT offers seamless integration with all DAWs and hardware devices, customizable presets, and an intuitive interface for effortless control and creativity. Whether you're diving into your DAW or jamming out with external hardware instruments, MONOLIT has you covered. An endless library of presets at your fingertips—each one offering 8 banks, with 8 sliders and 8 buttons per bank. That's a whole lot of control!
For each slider and button, we present a range of versatile options. You can record MIDI automation, set delay times for slider movements, send notes and LFOs, and adjust various parameters directly within the device. This flexibility ensures that you have complete control over every detail of your setup. But it doesn't stop there. MONOLIT is as versatile as you are, allowing you to connect other devices like Gamepads, Keyboards, Monome Grid , or any MIDI device you fancy. This means you can take command of your entire setup, all through one sleek, powerful interface. Whether you're crafting the perfect beat, tweaking synths, or anything in between, MONOLIT is the tool that brings your musical ideas to life with ease and style. Designed and assembled in Japan, MONOLIT is ready to be shipped worldwide.
"Mercury-8 synthesizer builds on Cherry Audio's renowned Mercury legacy with a passionate focus on detail and modern technical advancements. Every aspect of the original hardware has been carefully modeled to capture the sound and behavior that made the JP-8 so legendary. Furthermore, Mercury-8 goes "beyond Jupiter" by offering expanded polyphony, versatile modulation options, studio-quality effects, and expressive performance capabilities. It not only captures the distinctive essence of a JP-8 but can even exchange SysEx data with MIDI-modified hardware.
Cherry Audio and @TimShoebridge have collaborated once again to share an in-depth introductory video for Mercury-8. This comprehensive guide demonstrates how simple it is to create powerful sounds from scratch, maximize the modulation matrix, and get the most out of splits and dual layers. Additionally, the video highlights the new effects and Mercury-8's remarkable capability to import original JP-8 patch bank SysEx data via a drag-and-drop feature.
00:00 - Mission Mercury! by Mal Meehan, James Terris, and Robert Saint John
01:16 - Introducing Mercury-8 with Tim Shoebridge
02:48 - A Little Experiment
05:20 - Music: "From Scratch"
07:26 - Front Panel: VCOs and LFO
11:45 - Music: "Two Notes"
12:05 - Filters and Envelopes
15:00 - Music: "Plucks"
15:20 - Mod Matrix
16:35 - Layers, Dual and Split
18:05 - Effects
25:45 - Music: "Lo-Fi"
26:27 - Quick Tour: Sequencer, Arp, Performance, Assign Mode, and the Digital Display
27:43 - Digital Display and Expanded Settings
34:41 - Mercury-8 and JP-8: Factory Presets and SysEx Data Exchange
37:37 - Conclusion and Music: 'Timeline'"
Playlist of videos (note the desciption above is for the first video):
1. Cherry Audio | Introduction to Mercury-8 with Tim Shoebridge
2. Cherry Audio | Mercury-8 Synthesizer - NEW! - Cherry Audio and Michael Oakley Official
3. Cherry Audio | The Grid Preset Pack for Mercury-8 by Michael Oakley
4. Cherry Audio | Mercury-8: A Tour of the Presets with Mike Martin
5. Cherry Audio | JUPITER-8 x MERCURY-8 - Factory Presets Compared
6. Cherry Audio Mercury-8: Artist Demo - James Dyson
7. Cherry Audio Mercury-8: Artist Demo - Jezz Woodroffe
And two user videos:
Cherry Audio Mercury-8 Jupiter-8 Strings Pads FX VST Virtual Analog Synthesizer Rik Marston
1. Kastle 2 Alchemist 🧪 Compact Hybrid-Synthesis Instrument
2. No talking, just sounds - Kastle 2 Alchemist Hybrid-Synthesis Instrument
3. The most fun I've had making a video - Oscillator Sink and Bastl Instruments
4. ALCHEMIST: Bastl's super fun Kastle synth - Turbo Tambourine and Bastl Instruments
5. Bastl Alchemist Beginner’s Guide – How to Get Started - Shimmery.mp3 and Bastl Instruments
"We are stoked to introduce the Kastle 2 Alchemist – a patchable, hybrid-synthesis
instrument that empowers you to explore melodies and even harmonic textures, despite
being monophonic.
The Alchemist offers a range of Bastl-brewed Synth Modes – Filter, FM, Supersaw,
Hypersine, and GlitchNoise – which can be combined with its internal effects and the
versatile Pattern Generator. Rhythms and scales are fully customizable via the web-based
app, and expanded MIDI USB compatibility adds even more flexibility.
The Kastle 2 Alchemist is the third firmware release for the Kastle 2 hardware platform,
joining the FX Wizard multi-effects processor and the Wave Bard stereo sample player. The
firmware is fully cross-compatible across all devices in the Kastle 2 Series – meaning the
Alchemist firmware can be loaded onto previous Kastle 2 units and Citadel modules, and
vice versa.
The Kastle 2 Alchemist is the spiritual successor to the original and widely popular Kastle
Synth, introduced in the fall of 2016 and later updated to Kastle 1.5 in late 2017. It also
inherits the DNA of the Kastle Arp from 2023, resulting in expanded musicality.
The Kastle 2 Series is often described as experimental and funky — and while the Alchemist
certainly carries that spirit, this third medieval-themed instrument pushes the platform further.
With carefully crafted synth modes and intuitive controls, the Alchemist expands the musical
range, making it valuable in both beginner setups and complex studio environments."
"The Beetlecrab Tempera Granular Synth just received its *V2.2 update*, and it’s a big one. In this video I take you through the new features, hidden tricks, workflow tweaks, sound-design improvements and performance enhancements that make Tempera one of the most expressive modern granular instruments around.
Whether you're already deep into granular synthesis or you're a hardware synth explorer looking for fresh inspiration, this walkthrough will help you get the very best out of the Tempera in its latest form.
I cover everything from the new modulation behaviours to improved grain controls, expanded performance capabilities, more responsive pads, UI refinements and creative techniques that make the Tempera feel faster, deeper and more musical. Plus: a load of practical audio demos so you can hear what’s really changed."
"We say... A pre-owned Chompi Club Chompi in excellent condition. It comes with original packaging and accessories.
Manufacturer's description Chompi is a quirky, chromatic sampler and tape music instrument, inviting you into the magical world of sound design. With its unique stereo sampling engine, expressive multi-effects and varispeed “tape” style looper; Chompi is ready for immediate fun.
Special care was taken with sourcing quality materials for Chompi's hardware, but many aspects of the platform have also been designed with user customization in mind. The modular panel enclosure, MX mechanical key switches and keycaps, and DJ-style encoder knobs can all be customized and retrofitted by the user to match their own unique style.
Chompi's workflow is designed to be user-friendly and accessible to individuals of all experience levels… So whether you’ve been playing music for years, or are just starting your sonic journey, Chompi just might become your new favorite buddy!
"M-Audio Venom Purple Beta Tester Version
As far as I know there was only one other of these made in this color. [only two other listings were previously posted here. You'll also find a post on Venom creator Taiho Yamahda's blog. Taiho is now with Sequential.]
The production units where white with orange and black lettering.
I was one of the beta testers and sound programmers for this synth.
Since this was a beta tester model the Midi was not fully functional when I received it.
We did all of updates thru the USB however so don't know for sure if there was a change to the hardware or it just needs a firmware upgrade.
Was just going to buy another production model and swap out the motherboard but never got around to it.
It has all of my factory program contributions in bank C.
While it requires using the editor from either a Mac or PC to program it completely it has a broad range of possible sounds.
It is a very fat sounding synth."
"RARE! New England Digital Synclavier 9600 Polyphonic Sampling System Brochure
Yes, this is the 9600, and yes, this is in English.
This is THE RAREST and MOST SOUGHT AFTER of the 1989 new system brochures that that fake foreign website scanned the photos from 25+ years ago to show fake systems on the website (instead of real ones like Synclav com has shown for 20+ years). This is the original source of the scan, at least for the Synclavier 9600 model. Those photos show empty boxes. Uhm, what's holding that beige door closed (no locks)? And exactly what software generates that screen image?
This incredibly rare brochure gives all the information, and shows all the specs of the Synclavier 9600. And surprise! The maximum polyphonic sampling memory is not "1.5GB", lulz.
And, lastly, Synhouse has the Synclavier 9600 in stock (two kinds, actually). Nobody else does."
New England Digital Synclavier Brochure VPK Sample-to-Disk VT640
"This is an incredibly rare brochure from the summer of 1984 (when NED was working on polyphonic sampling Synclavier to be shown October 1984 and there was no actual system in production, the few shipped were hybrids of the Synclavier V/PK retrofitted to a Synclavier II Control Unit) that shows things that NED didn't exactly make, ever.
This was their first---and last---mention of "The Tapeless Studio" meaning the sequencer (later that meant the Direct-to-Disk system). It describes the SMPTE Reader Option without using that term because it wasn't yet available and they hadn't figured out how it would be done yet (similar to the 1987 discussion of the not-yet-released 3rd party SMPTE reader for the Linn 9000, saying they weren't sure whether or not it would require additional hardware to be added to the Linn 9000....that's the sound of someone who hasn't ever used SMPTE and doesn't know what it is), and it shows a graphical flow chart showing polyphonic sampling and multi-channel outputs (neither available then as building blocks), and is intentionally vague about the "floppy disk system" and "Winchester disks", as they didn't really have the set offering for that (high density Superfloppy, not out until 1985, and 5mb and 10mb IMI MFM Winchester drives being common, neither with SCSI until 9/1985).
It describes the Stereo Option, Sample-to-Disk, SCRIPT/MAX, and different Control Unit enclosures.
Most strangely, it shows a V/PK that never existed, with a back panel that wasn't made, with Synclavier II connectors that were never used and, sadly, an on/off power switch that they never put on this $11,000 machine.
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 the auction link on top when you get there for additional listings.
"One of very many items from Calum Hunter's superb home studio - and probably the jewel in the crown. This is a rare black version of Tom Oberheim's classic original Two-Voice synth. Cosmetically it looks a bit tatty at first glance - but on closer inspection, the bad areas where the paint has come off in places are all just on the chassis surrounding the SEMs and sequencer. Oberheim's preparation of these areas was obviously not up to their usual standard. Those pieces are usually white, and they simply over-sprayed them without preparing the surface well enough. In contrast, look at the black section immediately above the keyboard, which is really good.
All the modules (the important bit) are actually in extremely good condition - and apart from the sequencer having four little knob caps missing, near mint.
It would be simple to respray the bad chassis bits if you wanted. The tolex, keys and case hardware are pretty good for their age. There is no lid. The mains socket has been replaced with a safer IEC one. Voltage (TBC) is UK /European.
It has been tested by Audiocircus and is sounding great."
"This set is in very good condition and working 100%. It has just been professionally serviced and with some restoration. It has a custom foot-switch installed so you will never need to clean the pedal contacts again. This modification (not visible) uses the original connector and has no ugly, irreversible holes drilled into the unit. It is completely reversible if you want to put it back to stock. It will be properly packaged when sold and will arrive in the condition as stated. Not sold as-is! Proof of the actual shipping cost will be provided if needed. Although this listing is marked as a US sale only, I will ship to most countries. If you're overseas and interested, please send me a message.
Cosmetically- Nothing is mint in my opinion and this one is no exception. Apart from chassis and pc boards being cleaned up, all of the black anodized screws have been replaced and the pedals have been cleaned/ polished.
Internally- Apart from any repairs, the unit has been disassembled and cleaned, all sliders, switches, jacks, and potentiometers have been cleaned (no scratchy sliders or knobs when moved), all electrolytic capacitors replaced including the power supply, the power supply voltage regluator & power transistors replaced, all screws and hardware tightened, has a new custom foot-switch assembly installed, and its been completely scaled & calibrated. I might be forgetting a few things so this may be updated."
Q1. What is FM synthesis? A1. The cheesy sounds of mid-80s pop music A2. A technique enabling sound designers to tap into the underlying mathematical structures of the Universe Q2. Can both of these be true?
Australia’s pioneering electronic music collective Clan Analogue explore these important questions with their dazzling new release - Sublime Wavelengths: The Cosmic Bliss of FM Synthesis. This compilation takes listeners on a journey through the shimmering tones, intricate modulations, and futuristic landscapes of FM synthesis. Sublime Wavelengths is a celebration of the iconic synthesis method of frequency modulation which revolutionised sound design in the 1980s and defined an era of electronic music.
The artists on Sublime Wavelengths explore FM synthesis in all its manifestations. Jacek Tuschewski and Darrow explore the transcendant qualities of frequency modulation with their expansive contributions, while KOshowKO and Boris Divjak each embrace driving rhythmic and melodic possibilities with their cosmic melding of digital precision and human expression. Meanwhile experimental harpist Kris Keogh pushes sonic transformation to the limit with a mutated strain of crushed and squished FM processing while Sussiguala creates an unrelenting rhythmic structure pulsing with dubbed-out sine wave modulation. The technology employed from the artists’ studios ranges from the classic 1980s Yamaha DX7 synthesizer, heard on contributions from Infinity Deck and BluNjin, to the newest hardware, VST synths and coding environments, such as those used by Acidalius and Marcus Newman. Sublime Wavelengths doesn’t neglect the party vibe of 80s-flavoured pop, with celebratory grooving contributions from Swinging Tasty Bag and Just the Tip-pet. The compilation culminates with the high energy sounds of Mr Rachele before dissipating into hypnotic closing tracks by Intermodd and Cylan.
The album reflects the collective spirit of experimentation that Clan Analogue has nurtured since the early ‘90s, while embracing the retro-futurist charm and crystalline complexity that FM synthesis offers. Whether you’re a synth enthusiast, an electronic music aficionado, or simply a listener ready for a sonic adventure, Sublime Wavelengths invites you to tune into a higher frequency.
Sublime Wavelengths is dedicated to the memory of Jacek Tuschewski who passed away prior to the release of the compilation.
released September 2, 2025
Executive Producer: Tieran Kimber Design: James Wingrove Label support: Nick Wilson Mastering: Darren Ziesing at Millennium Mastering, except track 1 mastered by Martin Koszolko Listening panel: Wade Clarke and Marcus Newman
Ocean Swift Launches “Sample Tester” - A Free, Instant Tool for Sonic Curation
and Auditioning
Ocean Swift announces the release of Sample Tester, a
compact, zero-friction instrument designed for rapid auditioning, tuning checks,
and curation of oscillator-style samples. Sample Tester is available now as a
free Kontakt Player-compatible tool, empowering producers, sound designers, and
sample library creators to streamline their workflow.
A Tool That
Speeds Up the Process
With Sample Tester, users can drag and drop a
sample file and immediately hear it played polyphonically, allowing quick
assessment of tuning, harmonic behavior, and musical context. The instrument:
Automatically
detects or permits manual setting of the root note Displays MIR-derived
metrics such as pitch, peak, RMS, and loudness at a glance Offers an engine
toggle to compare Direct-From-Disk streaming versus Time Machine Pro sample
stretching Provides one-click amplitude envelope shapes (Perc, Bell, Piano,
Lead, Pad) Supports NKS / NKS2 mappings, compatible with hardware control
surfaces Works fully in the free Kontakt Player—no full Kontakt license
required In modern production environments, sound designers and producers
often sift through large volumes of raw samples. Determining which ones will
behave musically, tune correctly, or integrate well into a kit or melodic
instrument can be time-consuming. Sample Tester accelerates that
decision-making:
Instant feedback: No waiting for heavy DAW setup Precise
metrics: MIR data gives insight beyond the ear alone Real-time auditioning:
Hear the sample in chords or context, not just as a solo note Flexible
workflow: Works for tonal, looped, oscillator-style materials These
features combine to let creators “decide faster, tune with confidence, and build
better libraries.”
Ocean Swift positions Sample Tester as a perfect
companion to its Spectral Oscillators Toolkits, but the tool is equally useful
for any user working with tonal or looped sample material.
This isn’t a vintage emulation, or a collection of pretty presets under reverb.
