There is a Creator in every human being. Our mission is to empower those who have not and cannot.
Source code for the Behringer IGNITE 64-channel multi-track sequencer.
Key features
64-channel multi-track sequencer with a song, scene, track and pattern structure
Patterns of up to 16 bars with 16 steps per bar, scenes of up to 200 bars, 96 PPQN timing
Real-time recording, undo, fill, solo/skip, gang and sculpt functions
Transpose control and up to 10 user-defined scales
Internal General MIDI sound engine
5 MIDI DIN in/out pairs, USB MIDI, and USB host MIDI for up to 5 devices
MIDI clock sync, MIDI Machine Control and remote control
8 CV and 8 Gate jacks with calibration, plus sync in/out
Wi-Fi connectivity
Release status
This repository contains the IGNITE application, its audio engine and hardware protocol, and the Buildroot tree for the Linux image. Material that could not be redistributed was removed, so some parts need your own replacements before they build (see the README in each folder). There is no official firmware release here yet.
Front panel Touchscreen 16 RGB step pads, each with its own encoder 8 assignable knobs (A–H) and a jog wheel ROW and BAR encoders Transport, song/scene/track/pattern, and edit buttons USB-A port (5 V, 1 A) with a USB STOP button
"An unofficial firmware extension for the Waldorf Microwave II, XT and XTk, operating system 2.33:
Independent wavetable selection for both oscillators.
X-Mod: new Phase and Amplitude modulation modes for both oscillators (XT and XTk).
Warp: nine ways to reshape each oscillator's wave as it plays, with two new modulation destinations, W1 Warp and W2 Warp (XT and XTk).
New aliasing settings modeled after the Industrial Music Electronics Piston Honda Mk II Eurorack module.
Interpolation: optional smooth wavetable scanning as on the Synthesis Technology E352 Cloud Terrarium and the Piston Honda, with Startwave in hundredths of a wave.
FX Para 1-3: three new modulation destinations that move the effect's settings, such as its Speed, Feedback or dry/wet mix.
MPE input, with per-note pitch bend, pressure and Y.
MIDI controllers for every new setting.
The Tallent Edition Sounds: 80 Sounds and nine wavetables that use the new features.
All original features remain. On an XT or XTk, the new pages sit behind Shift with the Wavetable, FM Amount and Env Amount knobs. A Microwave II plays 8 voices and reaches the new pages with the Page dial. Waldorf's update can be loaded again at any time.
"Millie from Synido showed us their products - W25 Play, TempoKey K32 Play, Scale Pocket, Gaming A7 and LiveDock A20 Pro. Synido is a Shenzhen-based company with a focus on compact music tools, MIDI controllers and small audio interfaces.
W25 Play works without a computer for setup. It includes scale mode, chord mode, an arpeggiator, MIDI, and MIDI In, Out and Thru. It costs $169.
TempoKey K32 Play includes 128 sounds, 10 drum keys, a speaker, battery, 32 MIDI keys, eight knobs, eight pads, Bluetooth MIDI and USB-C. It costs $149 and is released in mainland China, with overseas release planned through the website and Amazon.
Scale Pocket includes 132 scales, 12 sounds, a speaker, headphone jack, USB-C MIDI and 24 velocity-sensitive keys. Gaming A7 is a low-latency gaming audio interface due in December at $53. LiveDock A20 Pro includes instrument input, mic, output and Type-C, and costs $60."
X-Max And Many New Products: MIDIPLUS - Music China 2026
"YK from MIDI Plus gave us a tour of the massive booth they had in hall N1 covering products across many areas. YK showed us the flagship X-Max keyboard, and several new products in the company's range. We heard about the brand's history, including early Chinese digital keyboard development, portable MIDI keyboards for personal computers, and MIDI-to-USB work with MIDI Man. They collaborate with many brands to bring products to us.
*X-Max *is the flagship keyboard. It comes in an 88-key Fatar-touch version, with three semi-weighted versions also available. It includes hundreds of sounds, supports split mode, and offers DAW control for Logic, Cubase, Nuendo, Pro Tools, Live and others. Features include Chinese instruments, velocity-switched sample layers, expression control, smart scales, a learning mode, arpeggiator mutation and chord pads. Pricing is over RMB 6,000.
The Titan Q4F audio interface is a new 8-in/8-out model with a self-developed FPGA platform, screen metering, Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX HD and LDAC, plus Dante, ADAT, S/PDIF and OTG support.
Portal is a broadcast-focused interface with EQ, effects, pads, sampling, presets, mix-minus and loopback. We also saw a *folding AI smart guitar*, a Bluetooth MIDI wind instrument, and an expandable DAW controller with up to 32 channels.
More Info: https://www.midiplus.com.tw/"
"Marie from Topping Pro gave us a look at KB22, a mechanical keyboard with a built-in 2-in/2-out audio interface, alongside the portable M62 interface. The KB22 is a recent release from the Guangzhou company, which has its roots in hi-fi products and is now moving further into pro audio. This while at first glance might seem like a gimmick, actually makes a lot of sense.
The KB22 includes mic and high-impedance instrument inputs, line output, USB hub, OTG for phone connection, and 6.35mm headphone output with monitor volume control. The keyboard comes in two switch-feel options, and a small screen shows basic data.
Its control panel offers three modes: pro audio, gaming and hi-fi. Pro audio mode includes 80 dB gain, six loopback channels, DSP effects, noise reduction, reverb and ducking. Gaming mode includes voice boost and monitoring tools, while hi-fi mode includes EQ adjustment for playback tuning.
The M62 offers similar functions in a portable format, with a built-in battery rated at about 6.5 hours, dual mic inputs, aux input, headphone output, charge, OTG and USB-C ports. It supports phone and computer connection, including two-phone live streaming, and comes in seven colours. KB22 is priced at $269, while M62 is $249, with availability via Topping's global store, distributors and Amazon.
"This are the first tests of my new viral FM1 synth engine on my new FM1. It is still in a very early state. The first sign of life and it sounds very promising
The video is not so great, but you get an impression of the sound quality. This engine was made with high fidelity in mind pushing the device to its max ๐
After the very long measurement and matching phase of the synth sections i still need a lot of tweaking for the perfect virus like sonic character. My goal is to make this thing patch compatible to the original.. I do my best to make this synth a main reason to buy an FM1..or 3๐
Note: this is not a Osirus based approach. No original firmware involved ( beside the legal aspects this alone would eat up 512 Kb of the FM1s rom leaving only a few Kb for the Rest) That’s why everything is done from scratch trying to come as close to the original s as possible.
"SIDOU is free firmware that turns the M-VAVE FM-1 pocket synth into a Commodore 64 SID instrument: an emulated SID chip (6581 or 8580) played from the FM-1's keys and knobs and over MIDI, with three effect slots after the chip. It also plays and edits GoatTracker 2 songs with a step sequencer and a tracker (0 SEQ, Space PLAY): a new song comes with a SID drum kit and sampled digi drums, and STEP can play a step by chance, roll a new pattern (DICE) or vary one (MUTATE). On a real FM-1 the sound also goes out over USB as an audio input a computer can record. It plays PSID .sid tunes too, from the unit's flash, on its own 6502 (the menu's SIDS: one or two SID chips, PAL or NTSC, with mute and solo for the voices)."
"The original Nord Lead from 1995, running on Nordic, a C++ reimplementation of the Nord Lead 1 DSP program. It was written clean room from the behaviour of the unit, is bit exact to the original DSP program and was checked against a real Nord Lead 1, so no ROM or firmware is needed. 48 voices, unison, morph, arpeggiator and all four slots A-D, each on its own MIDI channel, with its own editor below the rack. Nord Lead 2 programs can be imported and exported."
"Eighteen legends, one plugin. From 90s digital synths running bit-exact on an emulated 56k DSP, through FM and sound chips like the DX7, OPL3, SID and Ayumi, samplers and trackers like the Akai S1000 and FastTracker, all the way to the classic Wurlitzer 200A, Oberheim Matrix-1000 and Minimoog Model D, modeled from their analog circuits, and the Hammond B3 with its tonewheels and Leslie speaker.
Version 2.0 opens every sound parameter of each instrument on a board below the rack.
"Can you build a playable synthesizer in a single afternoon? Here's my attempt: a DIY synth built from a basic ESP32 I had lying around.
At its heart is a DCO: a digitally controlled oscillator. The waveform isn't generated in code. It comes straight from the PWM outputs, while the code only sets the pitch, pulse width and modulation. The result is a fat, raw, monophonic sound with accurate notes and no tuning headaches.
How this ESP32 synth works:
• Two PWM signals from GPIO 18 and 19
• A simple resistor mixer and a capacitor on the output
• MIDI input built around a 6N137 optocoupler, three resistors and a socket (powered from the ESP32 board)
• Pitch Bend and Modulation over MIDI
• Pulse width and detune of the second oscillator controlled by knobs
What this synthesizer doesn't have (yet): an envelope, polyphony and a filter. They can all be added later in the analog part of the signal path, and I'll start working on them soon."
"Experimental by design, diceFriend by Sigil Instruments is a compact standalone synthesizer with manifold personalities that will be particularly appreciated by those who enjoy adventurous instruments. Stripped of screens and menus, diceFriend centers intuitive gesture and listening as the core of the music-making experience. The sound and behavior of diceFriend are entirely determined by the installed OS, and there are already more than a dozen varieties, ranging from pulsar and modal synthesis to engines inspired by Rob Hordijk's Blippoo Box and Peter Blasser's chaotic instruments.
Each enclosure is a hand-crafted wood piece, so every unit has its own unique look. Control-wise, it features three brass touchpads and six unlabeled knobs that, together with a SHIFT layer, provide direct access to twelve parameters. The namesake DICE button is a randomizer driven by a PRNG combined with thermal noise. Pressing it randomizes all twelve parameters as well as internal synth variables, setting the instrument into an entirely new state—and with 281 trillion possible states, you can be sure never to exhaust the options. Cleverly, after a roll, the knobs pick up from their randomized values only once moved, so nothing jumps abruptly.
A long press of the DICE button switches between two OS-contingent modes. AS (Autonomous State) typically treats diceFriend as a generative playground, with chaotic attractors and Rungler-style shift registers driving the algorithm. TS (Touch Synthesis) mode activates the three brass pads for tactile interaction, where pressure and hold time shape dynamics and timbre.
Lastly, a 3.5mm stereo line output sits alongside two CV inputs on banana jacks that act as clock, trigger, or modulation sources depending on the OS. Over USB-C, diceFriend appears as a class-compliant MIDI device with clock send and receive, and it can double as a CV-to-MIDI interface for other gear. Boasting plentiful stochastic adventures for sonic explorers of all stripes, diceFriend from Sigil Instruments is a musical companion you want to roll with again and again.
"behringer has put the KICK source code on github, and it got me wondering if the FM-1 has helped kick off something bigger in the synth world.
in this video, i take a look at what they've actually released and why i think it's interesting. is open-source software the future of music hardware, or am i reading too much into it?
obviously, we don't know if this has anything to do with the FM-1, but i'd love to hear what you think.
"A NEW and UGLY MPC, but not made by AKAI! It seems like Behringer has the first prototype of their MPC One clone ready and is asking for your help to bring it to life by open-sourcing the firmware. What do you think about this sampler? And how long will it take until they actually release it?"
"Behringer KICK (BE 0700-AAM)
Source code for the Behringer KICK.
Key features
AI camera for gesture control
Touchscreen
16 RGB pads, 8 banks
Sampler with sample editing, step sequencer and looper
Over 300 built-in effects
4 assignable knobs and a jog wheel
MIDI in/out, USB and 4 CV / Gate jacks"
Jarrod from Heisenberg told us about the OFAI Music Workstation and a handmade wooden MIDI controller.
The workstation is a custom small Linux-based unit with audio outputs and MIDI. It runs open-source software from the Zynthian platform, with additional presets made by Jarrod. The hardware is a a custom development by the team, and it supports MIDI synths, plug-ins and multi-timbral sequencing.
The wooden controller works as a generic control surface and is not for sale, more just as a DIY project by Jarrod. Parameters are assigned with MIDI Learn, so knobs and buttons can control selected synth or effect parameters. In the demo, a USB MIDI cable connects the controller to the workstation. The system can run drums, hi-hats and riffs on separate tracks, and selecting a track gives access to further parameters. A MIDI latch function holds notes while parameters are adjusted.
The OFAI Workstation is sold in China for 3,700 RMB. The wooden controller is handmade and is not for sale.
More Info: https://zynthian.org
2. 30k - Nyoka - Magnetic Field Noise Generator - Beijing Modular 26
Yang from 30K told us about their NYOKA Magnetic Field Noise Generator, a small experimental sound device that turns electromagnetic interference into audio control signals.
The unit senses magnetic field signals and uses them to modulate an internal oscillator. It can also be played by touch, with fingers routing signals to different points in the circuit. The device includes multiple switches for changing operating modes, selecting oscillator or inductor output, choosing where the magnetic field signal routes, and altering routing inside the oscillator.
The unit runs from USB-C power and outputs audio via a 3.5mm TRS jack. It responds strongly to nearby power sources, with different electrical equipment producing different responses. Yang also mentioned that it works well with external reverb and delay.
The device is available for 229 RMB.
He also showed a magnetic field amplifier with 1000x gain and a small Meow Box synthesizer that produces cat sounds - I mean, why not?
3. 203 Systems - Mystrix 2 MPE Grid, Cardenza - tiny hackable music computer- Beijing Modular 26
Nengzhuo Cai from 203 Systems had some pretty cool units to show, first up is about Mystrix 2, a wireless MPE grid controller, and two compact music devices. Mystrix 2 is the latest generation and runs its own OS, so applications can be installed directly on the hardware without a computer.
Mystrix 2 acts as a MIDI and control-data source. It includes MPE keyboard apps, chord, arpeggiator, scale and custom scale tools, split-screen operation, an eight-track sequencer, clip mode and a mixer. The sequencer supports 16 patterns with 16 steps. It has three full-feature USB-C ports for charging, computer connection or accessory boxes, plus CV and MIDI adapters. A hidden side touch slider supports functions such as strumming.
Next up is *Cardenza, *a $20 open-source ESP32 S3 music computer with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5, microphone, SD card, app installation and web coding support. You can run your own programs on it, and even browse the web (assuming you can code your own browser!)
Then the NULLperator is a tiny eight-track tracker with audio I/O, TRS MIDI I/O, microphone, speaker and battery. Mystrix 2 is expected for Kickstarter at around $500, while NULLperator is expected around $300, with free iOS and Android apps available.
More Info:
https://203.io/ |--------|
4. SPI1: Mini Multi-function Game-style Modules - Beijing Modular 26
We spoke to Lei and the team behind *SPI1*, a compact modular music workstation built around a “micro universe” concept. They explained that the project uses a game-like interface for creating music, with visual design, touch controls and interchangeable hardware modules forming part of the workflow.
SPI1 features a square-format touch bar with 12 control keys. Projects can start from blank templates or preset styles, and the system supports user-made templates. The team plans to release an SDK for third-party development, covering modules and internal software.
The instrument includes a DSP synth system where timbres are organised as “plants”, with scale selection, generative music modes and four-channel pattern recording. A map-style interface contains sound machines, including chord and wave-based devices. External interaction comes through probes for wind, magnetic signals, audio signals and other inputs.
The modular hardware includes interfaces such as joystick, DJ turntable, drum pad, fader and marble-based controllers. An audio sequencer module can trigger external devices and lights. SPI1 is currently a prototype, with a Kickstarter planned for spring next year. Pricing has not yet been confirmed.
ฤขirts from Erica Synths gave us a look at the Graphic Sequencer a new Eurorack module currently in production.
The Graphic Sequencer is a compact hub for sequencing and modulation. It has 10 steps (with a planned 16-step expander) plus CV and gate outputs and three modulation outputs. Those outputs support envelopes, delay-based envelope types, user-drawn multistage envelopes, LFOs, random walk, Euclidean sequencing and chord CV duties across multiple oscillators.
Magic mode changes an existing sequence in real time, with controls for note variation, octaves, density, gates and slides. Returning from that mode clears the edit buffer.
The Euclidean section works with an 8-channel expander, and hits can be added manually with the encoder.
The module is expected in about a month, priced around €300.
6. Theresyn - Beijing Modular 26
We spoke to Nori about Theresyn, a handmade fully analogue theremin synthesizer. He explained that it uses the familiar theremin approach, with the left hand controlling amplitude and the right hand controlling pitch, but adds extra control and acoustic elements.
Xin then demo'd the pressure-sensitive touch pad, which controls oscillator amplitude and can also trigger an ADSR envelope. Theresyn has two oscillators, with mixing between the theremin voice and an internal oscillator. Antenna tracking can be set to none, partial or full, allowing one oscillator to act as a drone or follow the pitch hand.
The synth also includes selectable waveforms, filter modes including low-pass, resonance, pitch-to-filter tracking and amplitude modulation of the cutoff. Its speaker system includes a front loudspeaker and rear resonating strings, with a pickup for the string output. There is no pitch quantizer, and pitch remains continuous. The pitch range can be tuned to the player's body capacitance.
Theresyn is handmade, available to order from the website, and the full version with bag costs €3,000.
We spoke to the team behind Puff V3 about the Puff breath controller project, which began in 2024. They explained that the current wired V2 has the same core functions as the planned V3, while the V3 moves to wireless operation.
Puff converts breath into control voltage for modular systems and synthesizers. It can control pitch, cutoff, resonance and other modulation destinations, depending on the patch. The system supports up to four CV outputs and one MIDI output. USB-C connects to a computer or laptop for MIDI, so it can control software and hardware at the same time.
The controller is held in the mouth, leaving both hands free for instruments such as guitar or piano. The team also discussed a future mouth ring or bite control for sustain-style input. The prototype is built, with release planned for June next year, and the project launches on Kickstarter.
"We've got this only one midified soviet polyphonic synthesizer from 1989 in perfect condition. With case, manuals & factory pedal.
In this demo we are showing preset sounds wuth small amount of Valhalla Supermassive Reverb & Arturia Keystep for midi examples.
The Formanta P-432 is a digital pre-set synthesizer with 32 sounds based on stored ROM sounds for many popular real instruments including piano, harmonica, accordion, organ, Hammond, flute, brass, woodwind, various electric keyboards and some synthesizer sounds as well."
"We spoke to Tim from SOMA about *Enigma*, an instrument controlled with metal objects rather than conventional knobs. Enigma has eight engines, including drum engines, noise-based sounds, arpeggiated parts, tonal material and preset-specific effects.
The surface responds to coins or other metal objects, and parameter changes happen at various points covering the surface, often where the printed lines cross.
In theory, the same object position produces the same result, though finding that point can be a challenge ;-)
Metal size matters: smaller pieces may not drive a parameter to its full range, while larger pieces can affect several parameters at once.
He demonstrated objects used as physical presets. Markers or templates can help return coins to fixed positions, and starting with more metal pieces, then subtracting them, is one suggested workflow.
There is no manual... it truly is a bit of a mystery, but it's the kind of instrument that rewards exploration"
"The Roland System 700 is a very rare and desirable modular synthesiser. It was and still is a premium professional system. They fetch over £150,000 on the second hand market, and that’s even if you can find a full system. If you can find a Roland System 700, usually it is only a partial system and finding the remaining blocks is near impossible.
The Analogue Solutions Series 700 is as close to the Roland System 700 as you can get. We aimed to replicate the design as closely as possible, keeping the look and layout the same.
We had knobs and slider caps custom made, and also custom ordered switches and potentiometers.
There are mechanical changes inside, which of course do not change the sound.
Using modern hindsight there are now better ways to build this internally and externally, and different choice of circuits types and layouts would be made in a synth now, but we stayed with the original spec.
Almost every circuit has been reproduced from original schematics. We kept changes to a minimum, only changing where necessary. The original uses many components that are discontinued. So changes were only made where it is impossible to find parts.
We resisted the urge to change the spec or feature set. The only change we made was to add a basic single channel MIDI to CV converter. This primarily for syncing the sequencer to MIDI.
Physical size is identical. Though we don’t plan to sell loose single modules, they are the same size as the original system, though a space may be required, and the power connector would need adapting.
We supply complete systems. However, one could buy the system in parts, starting, say, with just the Main block, adding the other blocks as money allows.
Or single blocks could be bought to fill gaps in an incomplete system."
"A classic, inside the FM-1.
Free firmware. Install straight from the browser and go back to the original whenever you like.
Three oscillators, a ladder filter and plenty of body Each block of the Minimoog panel has its place on the FM-1's 240 × 240 screen, with four real knobs to play it for real.
Oscillator bank Three oscillators with ranges from LO to 2', a waveform each, independent detune on oscillators 2 and 3 and a touch of pitch drift, like analog VCOs.
Ladder filter A four-pole ladder, 24 dB/octave, with saturation in every stage and the feedback lag of the Minimoog circuit. From emphasis 8 up it self-oscillates as a pure sine that follows the keyboard at 1 V/octave. Cutoff reads -5 to +5, as on the panel.
Contours Two contours (filter and loudness) with attack, decay and sustain. The attack is exponential, like the original circuit. Glide, LFO and modulation complete the section.
100 presets Ten groups of ten: a showcase of styles, hard leads, soft leads, basses, pads and strings, brass, plucks, keys, atmospheres and sound effects. About a quarter comes with the arpeggiator already on. Save your own in 32 user slots.
Arpeggiator and sequencer One tap on ARP turns it on and off; holding it sets HOLD. The sequencer records up to 16 notes (REC) and plays them (PLAY). The key LEDs light with the notes.
Effects per preset Reverb, delay, chorus and drive, each preset with its own combination, so basses, leads and pads live in very different spaces."
"Imagine being able to sequence different effects blocks as you wish. Imagine being able to send to a delay only on steps 5 and 9. Imagine being able to slew between effects slowly. Imagine if these effects blocks had LFO's for parameters to modulate them automatically. Imagine if you could choose from 34 effects blocks of different types. Imagine if you could quickly randomize everything to spit out a new sound. Imagine if you could change opamps, diodes, capacitors, and component age without a screwdriver and popping open something vintage.
Imagine no more!
Here's OCTAL. An 8-block sequence-able effects rack that lets you lightly touch or completely mangle your audio input into something fresh. An effects playground, if you will. Chain things in any order, then re-order them freely, just to hear how it sounds. Cascade blocks into each other, stacking sounds that build and grow. Or simply hit the EZ button and let it choose for you. Then sequence all that for certain steps only. Assign LFO's to automatically swell, dip, crunch, or delay sounds so that its just how you like it. Or, do that all at once, times 8.
"Imagine sending audio to a delay only on steps 5 and 9. Imagine slewing a filter between steps. OCTAL is eight effect boxes in series with a 16-step sequencer underneath: pick what's in each box, then program which boxes switch on at each step and where their knobs sit. Every box is its own little pedal, with its own paint, lettering, and wear.
1. Phantom Instruments S49 - Pitch Overview
2. Phantom Instruments S49 - Mutes Overview
3. Phantom Instruments S49 - Tracks Overview
4. Phantom Instruments S49 - Steps Overview
5. Phantom Instruments S49 | C45 - Short Live Demo Jam
Playlist:
1. Phantom Instruments S49 | C45 - Short Live Demo Jam
2. Phantom Instruments C45 - Short Live Techno Jam
3. Phantom Instruments C45 - Full Techno Jam with Ableton Live
4. Phantom Instruments - C45 (Promo)
S49 | Technical Specifications.
Overview Universal MIDI sequencer for hardware and software instruments USB-powered, class-compliant (no drivers required) Length: 304mm Width: 109mm Height (including knobs and feet): 45mm Weight: 900 grams
Connectivity USB MIDI 3.5 mm (1/8”) TRS MIDI: In, Out All TRS connections are Type A / B configurable CV Out x 8 Gate Out x 8 Clock In & Clock Out
Check with dealers on the right for pricing and availability.
Playlist:
1. MPK Mini Plus II | Expressive Control, Expanded Possibilities
2. MPK Mini Plus II with Drumma Boy | Akai Professional
3. MPK Mini Plus II | Overview
4. MPK Mini Plus II | MPC Integration
Akai MPK Mini Plus MK2 // What's new, review and tutorial
AKAI PROFESSIONAL® INTRODUCES MPK® MINI PLUS II, THE NEXT GENERATION OF ITS 37-KEY MIDI KEYBOARD CONTROLLER
Upgraded keys and MPC pads meet new creative tools, deeper MPC and DAW integration, a full-color display, MIDI and CV connectivity in a compact 37-key controller.
CUMBERLAND, R.I. (October 22, 2026) – Akai Professional® today announced MPK® Mini Plus II, the next generation of its compact 37-key MIDI keyboard, designed for creators who want more performance and production control without moving to a full-size keyboard. MPK Mini Plus II combines an upgraded 37-key mini keybed, eight velocity- and pressure-sensitive RGB MPC pads, a new full-color display, and creative tools including Glitch, Mutate, Strum, Freeze, Chords, and Follow. Direct MPC Standalone and MPC Desktop integration brings deeper MPC control to the keyboard, while USB-C, five-pin MIDI, and CV/Gate connectivity allow MPK Mini Plus II to move easily between software instruments, hardware synthesizers, and modular setups.
This one is in via Kyle who wrote the app for his kids!
"My kids are why I made this. I wanted a synth they could pick up and play without getting lost in menus, so I built Gnomad, a free firmware for the M-VAVE FM-1. Sounds are pictures, the knobs are colour coded, and a little gnome sings along. There's an iPhone/iPad app on the way too, with lessons built in."
"What's different about it
There are plenty of FM-1 firmwares. This one is built to be easy, so it works for kids and for adults who have never touched a synth.
EASY mode, in pictures. Turn one knob and you pick a picture: the Gnome, organ, bells, laser, whale, choir, cloud, piano, funny sounds or drums. That's 10 pictures and 57 sounds, and you don't have to be able to read to find one.
Four coloured knobs (blue, green, yellow, vermilion) that shape the sound you picked. Each sound gives its knobs their own jobs, and the screen names each job in the knob's colour. You can't turn them wrong. If something sounds odd, turn it back.
The Gnome sings. Each key gets its own syllable.
Grooves. Five ready-made loops (Head Nod, Floor Filler, Rainy Desk, Night Bus, Sky Garden) to play along with or build on. Keys 6 to 9 hold your own four saved songs.
Record a loop. Press REC and then PLAY, wait for the 4-3-2-1 count-in, and play. It goes round and round. Hold SAVE to undo, and the screen tells you what it took off.
Play it live. Hold PLAY and the loop restarts on the next bar. Press GLO + PLAY and it stops at the end of the bar. Hold GLO and play keys for a fill, or hold FX and play keys to try a sound without recording it.
Advanced mode is still there. Hold HOME + SAVE for 2 seconds to switch between the two modes. You get four tracks, a step sequencer, effects, MIDI over USB and TRS, and every page of the synth. Your music stays as it is.
"In this video Christian walks us through his latest incatative invention made in collaboration with the entire Crow Hill team. Forest Harps is made up of a rare find coupled with medieval ingredients and his own very special and grotesque approach to sound design. If you're looking for a harp that isn't a harp, a classical guitar that isn't a classical guitar and some fully controllable shifts in darkness of tone for your next score, song or soundtrack it would be worth checking out"
Press release follows:
The Crow Hill Company continues investigating its Origins series of virtual instrument plug-in collectibles with FOREST HARPS incantatory invention
EDINBURGH, UK: The Crow Hill Company is delighted to continue investigating its Origins series of virtual instrument plug-in collectables with the release of its intriguing-sounding FOREST HARPS — being billed as an incantatory invention collectively crafted by the Edinburgh-based enterprise, effectively comprising a harp made from elk horn, conch shell, animal ribs, and fishing wire brought together with medieval psaltries fed through a slowly rotating Leslie cabinet to create a forest floor of plucks, textures, and atmospheres as a rare and grotesque approach to sound design — as of October 20…
There is a Creator in every human being. Our mission is to empower those who have not and cannot.
