BAF 2025: Genki Instruments Katla Synthesizer

video upload by sonicstate

"At BAF 2025, we caught up with Kari from Genki Instruments who introduced us to the *Katla Synthesizer*. Touted as perhaps the first Icelandic synthesizer, Katla takes its inspiration from Iceland's largest volcano, featuring side panels made of lava rock, ensuring each unit is unique.

Katla *is a five-voice polysynth that marries elements from both polyphonic and paraphonic synth designs. It offers a range of modes, including a notably dynamic round robin mode, as well as unison options. Each voice in *Katla comes with its own filter, enveloping a unique avenue for creative expression.

The synth is complemented by a suite of modulation sources, including loopable envelopes and integrated LFOs. Effects on board such as stereo reverb and distortion expand its sonic capability. Currently in a digital prototype stage, Genki hopes to incorporate analog components before its release later this year.

More Info:

https://genkiinstruments.com/"

See the announcement post here.

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.

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SUPERBOOTH 2024: Love Synthesizers - First Love FM Synth

video upload by sonicstate

"At Superbooth 2024, Kari from Love Synthesizers gave us an in-depth look at their latest creation, the First Love FM Synthesizer. This four-timbral FM Synthesizer boasts a unique interface that allows users to quickly and intuitively edit the variables of the sound. By setting points in time and morphing between different timbres, users can easily create evolving and dynamic sounds without the need for complex menu diving. The touch screen interface, devoid of numbers and wording, provides a language-less experience that encourages users to rely on intuition and experimentation rather than technical know-how.

While the availability and pricing of the First Love FM Synthesizer are still being determined as it is in the prototype stage, Kari hinted at the possibility of pre-orders being available by the next Superbooth. The innovative design and user-friendly approach of this synthesizer may appeal to a wide range of musicians, including those new to synthesis who may find traditional FM synthesis intimidating. For more information on the First Love FM Synthesizer, check out their website."

Let's Make 80s Computers Talk | 1980s Commodore Speech Synthesizer

video upload by Kari

"Today, I take a non-technical look at a couple of speech synthesisers from my collection on my C64 from the 80s. Specifically, the Commodore Magic Voice and Currah Speech 64."

You can find additional posts featuring the Currah speech synthesis here.

Synamiitti 2015

Published on Sep 6, 2015 Petri Kauppi

"Turun syntetisaattoriseuran Synamiitti 2015"

Video from this year's Synamiitti synth event in Finland.

Some details on the event via http://synamiitti.com for the archives:

"12:00-18:00 Synamiitti, Loads of synths on display
The Daytime event is free of charge and the bar is open.
Päivätapahtuma on ilmainen ja Dynamossa on A-oikeudet.
AFTERPARTY
21:00-02:00 Live performances by:
RONSKIBIITTI (21:30)
MR VELCRO FASTENER (22:30)
visuals by:
VJ TURU SANOMA
Ovet/doors 21.00, liput/tickets 6e, ennakot/advance 8raita & Ticted
The Afterparty is presented by: TELMU & Turun Syntetisaattoriseura

ON DISPLAY / PETTING ZOO

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Acoustic Synth Screen Recording

YouTube via taskent99
"Live recording and screen capturing with Steim Cracklebox,Keypad Cigar Box Synth and BugBrand BoardWeevil."

What happened in the shopping mall?

"Strange and Odd Movie by Kari A. Hautanen. Made with Canon PowerShot A520.Music by Ari Taskinen.Live improvisation with BugBrand BoardWeevil09&Monotoniclabs.com Type-N37 synthesizer. www.aritaskinen.info"

Electronic Sound Improvisation for Helsinki, Merihaka, Time-Lapse Movie

"Time-Lapse Movie with Canon D60 by Kari A. Hautanen and live improvisation with BugBrand BoardWeevil09 and Monotoniclabs.com Type-N37 synthesizer by Ari Taskinen.
www.aritaskinen.info"