#NAMM 2026: Chordcat - this cat can elevate your chord progressions

video upload by CatSynth TV

"We get a tour of the Chordcat. In addition to featuring "cat" in its name, this eight-track groovebox has a large library of chord progressions, and the ability to predict/suggest follow-on chords to your current harmony in a palette from which the composer can then choose. It has built-in sounds as well as the ability to export MIDI to DAWs and other software for further development of compositions.

To find out more, please visit https://alphatheta.com/en/product/pro...


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Please consider supporting this channel to help us bring you more synthesizer tutorials and other content.
Merch: https://shop.catsynth.com
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145 Sound Presets + 16 drum kits
Designed for a wide range of genres, you can spark fresh ideas during the creative process by switching between 145 sound presets and 16 drum kits.
Tune your sound presets however you like them using the low-pass filter and amp envelope. These parameters can be automated for each pattern, allowing you to dynamically change the tone as well as the chord progression. This allows you to create lively phrases.

Easily make unique chord progressions

Chord Cruiser Mode
Generate up to 110,000 chord combinations that you can use to create your own progressions.
Put the groovebox in Chord Cruiser mode, and an exclusive algorithm selects and suggests multiple musically compatible chords from its database. You can listen to these chords and assign your favorite to a keyboard, triggering the next suggestion automatically.
With this intuitive workflow at your fingertips, you can enjoy a simple process to create original tracks.

Versatile arrangement features and intuitive instrument control

3 built-in effects
Manipulate 3 built-in effects intuitively using the XY pad:
Arpeggiator: Creates melodies from chords.
Delay: Adds depth to sounds and spatial dimension to your music.
Ducker: Adds dynamics and emphasis, creating a sense of movement in your tracks.

Running Direction Feature
Change the playback direction of 4×4 step-sequenced patterns by pressing a single button.
Choose from 4 options — right, down, clockwise, and counterclockwise — to discover new phrases and rhythms. This feature unlocks new ideas, so you can create innovative chord progressions or explore rhythms across different genres.

Key and scale settings
When you set a key and scale on Chordcat, only the notes that belong to the selected key and scale are mapped to the keyboard.
The compatibility of chords suggested in Chord Play mode or Chord Cruiser mode and the selected key and scale are indicated by LED lights; perfect for beginners and professional musicians.

Versatile connectivity: Expand your creative horizons
It’s easy to integrate Chordcat with external synthesizers and DAW software on PC/Mac computers thanks to its MIDI OUT/THRU, MIDI IN, and USB Type-C ports.
Use Chord Play and Chord Cruiser modes to control and perform with your connected devices effortlessly.

Anubis - Amiga version

video upload by MIDI IN

"The music here was captured directly from the back of the Amiga. For the video, I had trouble with capturing the monitor output and composite looked terrible, so I pointed a camera at the little telly and it seems fine.

The .mod file (actually .med) should play on a variety of players but your mileage may vary. It'll sound best using Octamed Player. It sounds good to me in Hippo, but not so good in Eagle (distorted, for reasons I don't understand). It also plays on modern computers in players such as VLC, but it does seem that that's not respecting the proper volume attenuations that I've set for each instrument.
https://peacockmedia.software/misc/An...

0:00 intro
0:52 why?!
2:36 the track"

MAKEN0ISE Announces New Universal Skiff System, MultiWave MIDI Inlet Module and More!

video upload by MAKEN0ISE

http://www.makenoisemusic.com


Press release follows:

Make Noise is proud to announce: New Universal Skiff System, MultiWave MIDI Inlet Module, N.U.S.S Bundle and 2-Zone Skiff! More information below!

The New Universal Skiff System music synthesizer is a small system devoted to multi-channel modular synthesis, using control voltages to create poliphonic sound events. The MultiWAVE provides eight dual wavetable oscillators, the PoliMATHS provides eight complex function generators, and a pair of QXG modules combine for eight channels of low pass gate with stereo mix animation. Together, these three modules enable poliphonic patching from a simple set of controls. In addition to the 8 channels of Polimaths for modulation, the MultiMod creates eight time-shifted variants of a single control signal, for even deeper modulation capabilities within the New Universal Skiff System. QPAS provides Multi-Mode Multi-Peak Stereo Filtering, and the XOH provides a final stereo mix and line-level or headphone outputs for monitoring and/or performance. The system also includes a USB-C input that can be used for Activation of MultiWAVE channels via MIDI or MPE signals from a USB MIDI host (such as a computer running a DAW or MIDI sequencer).
The New Universal Synthesizer System modules come together in a unified system!
Voltage controlled eight channel dual wavetable oscillator: MultiWAVE
Voltage controlled eight channel complex function generator: PoliMATHS
Voltage controlled low pass gate/mixing: QXG (x2)
Voltage controlled flock of inter-related modulators: MultiMod
Voltage controlled Multi-Mode Multi-Peak Stereo Filtering: QPAS
Stereo Mixing and Final Outputs: XOH
Activate MultiWAVE via MIDI/MPE using USB-C input with a USB host
3U Skiff outfitted with USB-C input and our new 2-Zone Bus Board
Ships with 15 patch cables

(For those looking for these as individual modules for their existing system please see the N.U.S.S. Bundle.)

Specifications:
Size: 3U
Total hp: 104
Dimensions: 21.5 x 5.14 x 3.5 (inches)
MSRP: $2399 (Retail value: $2681)

The MulitWAVE MIDI Inlet music synthesizer module is a passive expansion module that adds USB MIDI access to the MultiWAVE. It enables Activation of MultiWAVE channels via MIDI signals from a USB MIDI host (such as a computer running a DAW or MIDI sequencer). The MultiWAVE MIDI Inlet is required for MIDI control of MultiWAVE outside of the New Universal Skiff System.
Activate MultiWAVE via MIDI/MPE using USB-C input and a USB Host
Easy access to MultiWAVE USB functions (firmware updates, custom wavetable uploading)

Width: 2hp
Max Depth: (including USB cable): 22mm
Power: No Power Required
MSRP: $35
—
The N.U.S.S. Bundle presents the core modules of the New Universal Synthesizer System at a special price for installation into a Eurorack case of your choice.
Voltage controlled eight channel dual wavetable oscillator: MultiWAVE
Voltage controlled eight channel complex function generator: PoliMATHS
Voltage controlled low pass gate/mixing: QXG (x2)
Voltage controlled flock of inter-related modulators: MultiMod
USB/MIDI integration for MultiWAVE: MultiWAVE MIDI Inlet

(For those looking for a fully powered system with preinstalled modules please see the New Universal Skiff System.)

MSRP: $1669 (Retail value: $1850)
–
2-Zone Skiff
In 2009, Tony designed the first Skiff to complement the vertically oriented Doepfer P6 cases available at the time by providing an ergonomic enclosure for our René and Pressure Points touch controllers. These early skiffs were shallow, handcrafted wood designs. In 2015, a revised aluminum 3U Make Noise Skiff was released. This new design had enough depth to fit a wide range of modules, providing a smart way to build a small modular synthesizer.

Now, the Skiff has been updated again, this time to meet the more demanding power standards of today, with the 2-Zone Bus Board providing nearly double the power of its predecessor, plus the multi-zone design making it easy to isolate noise-susceptible or noise-causing modules from each other. The low-profile power headers are shrouded for easy and efficient module installation.
As before, the Skiff’s powder-coated aluminum construction is extremely durable. The clean, simple lines and matte black color place visual emphasis where the action is; the patch the artist has created.
Ships ready to use. Just add modules, patch cables, and inspiration.
Black Powder Coated Aluminum
2-Zone Bus Board provides ample power and module isolation
16 Shrouded Power Headers
40 Sliding Square Nuts, 40 Black M2.5 Screws
Side Mounted On/Off Switch
5V Power included
Select Bus and Eurorack Bus Compatible
Universal AC Power Adapter works worldwide

SPECIFICATIONS
Size: 3U
Total HP: 104
Outer Dimensions: 21.5″ x 5.14″ x 2.75″
Max Module Depth: 2″ over bus board, 2.5”
Power: +12VDC @ 2A, -12VDC @ 1.2A, +5VDC @ 1A
Includes: Powered Bus Board, 40 Sliding M2.5 nuts w/ Black screws, AC Adapter
MSRP: $349

#NAMM 2026: XStream - a new granular synthesizer from Delta Sound Labs

video upload by CatSynth TV

"Ricky Graham from Delta Sound Labs demonstrates XStream, an evolution of their granular effects plug-in Stream into an instrument capable of a variety of granular-synthesis possibilities. Single Mode lets you turn any sound into evolving pads, textures, and atmospheres. Time and pitch are handled independently, with detailed control over grain behavior and real-time sample scrubbing. Multi Mode makes your samples playable across the keyboard. With polyphonic grain engines, velocity sensitivity, and full MIDI tracking, you can build entirely new instruments from any audio source.

To find out more, please visit https://www.deltasoundlabs.com/
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Please consider supporting this channel to help us bring you more synthesizer tutorials and other content.
Merch: https://shop.catsynth.com
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/catsynth
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Baloran The 3FX

video upload by Laurent Baloran

"Après avoir sculpté le son dans l’espace avec The 3B, The 3FX explore la création d’espaces sonores capables de transcender tous vos instruments.

After sculpting sound in space with The 3B, The 3FX explores the creation of sound spaces capable of transcending all your instruments."

Also see New VST3 Plugin - The 3FX by Baloran In the Works

via Baloran:

"The psychedelic The 3FX

After sculpting sound in space with The 3B, The 3FX explores the creation of sound spaces capable of transcending all your instruments.

ARCHITECTURE

The heart of The 3FX is built around three fully independent effect voices, each based on a coherent 8-module architecture:

Two delays per voice, usable in series or in parallel
An advanced, progressive feedback path up to controlled self-oscillation
An analog 12 dB/octave multimode VCF (BP, LP, HP) to optionally process the audio spectrum, both on the delay lines and on the dry signal
Independent levels for the dry signal and each delay line
A panorama control to position the voice within the stereo field.
The stereo input signal is distributed across the three voices: left / left + right / right. A mono signal is distributed across all three voices.
Each voice can be used alone, stacked or combined with the others to create textures impossible to achieve with a conventional delay.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Korg Phase8 - No Talking, Euclidean Workout

video upload by Oscillator Sink

"Check out my full demo/review of the Phase8 here: • Hacking the Korg Phase8 to uncover NEW SOU... [posted here]

Inspired by Red Means Jeremycording's Phase8 video, I had to get Euclidean with the Phase8.

The Phase8 is tuned to a Lydian Dominant scale (C D E F# G A Ab C) and it is being sequenced by the Syntakt, using its powerful Euclidean track mode. I'm using MIDI LFOs to modulate the envelope parameter of each voice on the Phase8, which is running through the Syntakt's FX and master drive. I'm also doing some tempo-locked, per-step random modulation of the panning of the mono input to give the impression of a little more stereo movement. Lovely.

Transparency notice: Korg kindly sent over the Phase8 to make videos about. They haven't requested or been granted any oversight of the contents of the videos. I haven't otherwise been paid, but I do get to keep the unit shown in this video."

The Story Behind MIDI Amsterdam // Modulogue

video upload by Modulogue

"We visited Tim Nieuwenhuis' music store: 'MIDI Amsterdam', a staple in the Dutch electronic music scene for almost 30 years. Tim talks about the origin of his store, his passion for electronic music, the famous artists he's encountered over the years, and more!

MIDI Amsterdam
https://midiamsterdam.nl/"

#NAMM 2026: The Pocket SCÍON - Mushrooms making music?

video upload by CatSynth TV

"Tarun Nayar (Modern Biology) gives us a tour of the Pocket SCÍON, a curious device that takes resistance from the surface of living things (like the various mushrooms in the demo) and converts them into audio signals, musical patterns, and external control data via MIDI or OSC.

To find out more, please visit https://pocketscion.com/
https://www.instruomodular.com/produc...

'The Pocket SCÍON is a little hand held instrument that listens to the tiny electrical signals occuring all around us and turns them into sound. It’s portable, affordable, battery powered and small enough to fit in your pocket. With it’s stand-alone, plug-and-play interface, experienced or adventurous users can use the MIDI and OSC output capabilities to intergrate Pocket SCÍON into their studios, installations, and audio-visual projects.'
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Please consider supporting this channel to help us bring you more synthesizer tutorials and other content.
Merch: https://shop.catsynth.com
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/catsynth
Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/catsynth"

Kurzweil Introduces SP8 Stage Keyboard Built on Legendary V.A.S.T. engine

"Designed for performers who demand expressive sound, immediate control, and rock-solid reliability, the SP8 Stage Keyboard delivers Kurzweil’s legendary performance DNA in a powerful, streamlined instrument built for the modern stage. Built on Kurzweil’s legendary V.A.S.T. engine, the SP8 combines authentic acoustic realism, deep synthesis, and intuitive hands-on control—giving you everything you need to command the moment."


88-key fully weighted hammer-action keyboard
2 GB of factory sounds powered by FlashPlay® technology
1000 factory programs organized into 10 intuitive categories
Over 200 factory Multis for complex splits and layers
More than 4000 user locations to store your own Programs and Multis
256 Voice Polyphony
German D and Triple Strike Pianos
KSR – Kurzweil String Resonance, for rich, realistic piano response
KB3 ToneReal™ organ modeling, with front-panel knobs acting as drawbars
Classic 6-operator FM synthesis
Classic tine electric pianos, clavinets, harpsichords, and celeste
Bells, glockenspiel, bowed and hit crotales
Vector Synthesis waveforms and classic Kurzweil textures
Updated sounds drawn from the K2700, K2088/61, PC4, and iconic Kurzweil instruments
5 assignable knobs with 3-position Shift (15 virtual knobs total)
5 assignable buttons with 3-position Shift (15 virtual buttons total)
Programmable Variation button
Pitch wheel and assignable modulation wheel
Tap Tempo with programmable tempo control
Dedicated Transpose buttons (semitone or octave)
5-zone MIDI controller in Multi Mode for splits and layers
Arpeggiator, CC Sequencers, and Riffs, with dedicated front-panel buttons
Up to 5 simultaneous arpeggiators or CC sequences in Multi Mode
Built-in Riff and Metronome—always ready when you are
Audio input with FX for line, instrument, or mic sources
Two assignable switch pedal jacks, supporting up to four switch pedals
Half-damper pedal support for expressive piano techniques
One assignable continuous (CC) pedal jack for volume, wah, and more
More info coming soon!

Nymira, by Terraphones

video uploads by Terraphones

"Nymira is a standalone harmony instrument designed around the circle of fifths. Its sonic engine draws from the overtone series, offering detailed timbral control across seven individual partials. Two distinct models explore different synthesis methods; one rooted in additive FM synthesis, the other in classic subtractive design. Together, they provide a new, expressive way to shape rich and complex harmonic textures."

Playlist:

1. Introducing Nymira
2. Nymira, by Terraphones
3. what we don't say... (ambient wooden electronic musical instrument performance)

Cheat Code for Chord Progressions • The Circle of Fifths with Terraphones Nymira

video upload by Lightbath and Terraphones

"Terraphones shows me Nymira, a new synthesizer and MIDI controller based on the Circle of Fifths that makes playing chords and advanced harmony feel like cheating." ✶ CHAPTERS ✶

00:00 – Intro 00:32 – Overview 01:22 – Learning Nymira 01:46 – Harmonic Map 02:40 – Combining Chords 03:37 – Open Voicings 03:58 – Terraphones Concept 04:19 – Additive Mode 04:53 – Subtractive Mode 05:33 – Sus Chords 06:16 – Granular Mode 06:56 – Latching Chords 07:14 – Granular Mode Jitter 07:46 – The Circle as a Path 08:27 – Resolving Chords 08:50 – Nymira as a MIDI Controller 10:22 – Relative Movement 11:21 – Free Play 11:42 – Advanced Harmonic Moves 12:47 – The Zones 17:03 – Eureka! 17:35 – Thank you 18:14 – Outro"



"Nymira is a standalone harmony instrument designed around the circle of fifths. Its sonic engine draws from the overtone series, offering detailed timbral control across seven individual partials. Three distinct models explore different synthesis methods; one rooted in additive FM synthesis, another in classic subtractive design, and one based on granular synthesis. Together, they provide a new, expressive way to shape rich and complex harmonic textures.

Nymira is the only instrument in the world that maps the Circle of Fifths to a physical interface. Nymira is designed with Western harmonic theory at the core, allowing you to discover beautiful chord progressions that are much harder to play on other instruments.

Like all Terraphones, Nymira is assembled by hand, and is housed in solid walnut. Underneath Nymira’s keys are Cherry MX Silent Red keyswitches that offer a clean, tactile experience. With the ability to run on four rechargeable AA batteries, Nymira lets you play anywhere. Inside Nymira are two surface transducers that turn the walnut enclosure into a speaker of its own. Playing Nymira in this mode allows you to hear its warm sonic engine played through the walls of its walnut housing. Nymira also excels in the studio. It is equipped with USB MIDI out, and a stereo 1/4" audio output. If you don’t want to use batteries, Nymira can be powered via USB-C with any device that supplies 4-17 volts.

~~~
Nymira is made by Thomas Adam Billings, the sole creator of Terraphones. Every part of Nymira is ethically sourced, assembled by hand, with solid walnut sourced and milled in the United States of America. By purchasing Nymira, you are directly funding the ongoing research and development of a new wave of natural, electroacoustic musical instruments.
– $1200 –
50 units available for pre-order. Expected lead time : 6-10 weeks
Shipping to North America, South America, the UK, the EU, and Australia."

https://terraphones.com/Nymira.html

Aurelia, by Terraphones

video upload by Terraphones

"Aurelia is a wind instrument that bridges acoustic expression and electronic sound. It responds to both breath and touch, translating natural, human gestures into rich melodies. Aurelia’s key layout is unique to all other wind instruments, giving you the ability to play in every major and minor key with equal ease. Aurelia was created to feel as inviting to the novice as it is deeply expressive to the professional.

Aurelia’s keys use Cherry MX Silent Red keyswitches, giving you the accuracy and speed that can be found on the most well-tuned wind instruments. Housed in a handmade, solid walnut enclosure, Aurelia has a striking visual aesthetic that also feels extremely comfortable in the hands.

Aurelia has a unique sonic engine that uses warm, analog-modeled oscillators, creating a gradient of sound qualities that work well with both acoustic and electronic musical environments.

While playing solo melodies is at Aurelia’s core, it also has a Counterpoint Mode that will harmonize with you as you play. Just choose a key, and Aurelia will figure out the rest.

Aurelia is designed for portability. It can run on four rechargeable AA batteries, and has a built-in speaker. With USB MIDI out and a 1/4" stereo audio out, Aurelia excels in studio and live performance settings as well. Aurelia can be powered via USB-C with any device that supplies 4-17 volts.

~~~
Aurelia is made by Thomas Adam Billings, the sole creator of Terraphones. Every part of Aurelia is ethically sourced, assembled by hand, with solid walnut sourced and milled in the United States of America. By purchasing Aurelia, you are directly funding the ongoing research and development of a new wave of natural, electroacoustic musical instruments.

– $650 –

0 units available for pre-order. Expected lead time : 6-10 weeks
Shipping to North America, South America, the UK, the EU, and Australia."

https://terraphones.com/Aurelia.html

Analemma - downtempo ambient

video upload by rustyjaw

"Have worked on this on and off for a couple of months. The basic outline of the track took shape fairly quickly, then the familiar self-doubts crept in and I spun for a while. Not seeing a way to move forward, I stopped working on it. The holidays came and went, and I left this project in stasis. But when I finally came back to it with fresh ears, I could sort of see a path forward. I reworked parts and found the groove again.

I think the bass in this is probably the most interesting part, it came about from experiments with MIDI FX on Hapax, using random LFOs to influence filter and amp settings on the OB6, creating this off-kilter wobbly sound with some funkiness. That then inspired the percussion.

The major players in this are: 3Rd Wave (the opening sound), OB-6 on bass, Prophet, Digitakt, Digitone doing background ambience, Minilogue, and a sprinkling of the Make Noise NUSS system."

Xfer Serum 2 50 Presets: Dark Textures & Drones. Sound Demo

video upload by Anton Anru

🌌 "Fractured Atmospheres" is a collection of 50 atmospheric and experimental presets for Xfer Serum 2, made for producers who want emotional, evolving, and dark sounds with character.
The soundset moves between soft and pleasant atmospheres and noisy, unstable, and abstract tones, making it suitable for both musical ideas and sound design.

💾 The bank of presets includes: 12 Pads, 12 Strings, 14 Textures, and 12 Drones.

📦 Get these presets: https://antonanru.sellfy.store/p/seru...
👤 The author of the soundset is Ilian.
❗️Compatible only with Serum 2. Not compatible with Serum 1.

💎 The soundset is built around contrast and imperfection, drawing inspiration from natural phenomena, mental states, and inner anomalies.
Pads and strings blend smooth, emotional, and airy tones with subtle noise, creating fragile, lo-fi, and cinematic atmospheres, while textures and drones move into darker, noisier, and more atonal territory.

Shaped by slow or fast, evolving modulation, the presets feel expressive and alive, working as musical layers, background ambiences, or standalone soundscapes.

CLICK FOR MORE »

A Love Story - Roland Cloud CR-78 First Look

video upload by Starsky Carr

"The Roland CR-78 CompuRhythm is one of the most iconic drum machines ever made — and now it’s back as a stunningly accurate ACB emulation inside Roland Cloud. In this video I take a deep dive into the CR-78 plugin, exploring its legendary analog sound, programmable patterns, classic rhythms, and all the powerful new features that go far beyond the original 1978 hardware.

The original CR-78 was the world’s first programmable drum machine and became famous for its warm analog voices, signature presets and musical groove. It appeared on countless classic records — from Phil Collins and Blondie to early synth-pop, post-punk and electronic pioneers.

In this demo I explore:

Roland’s ACB (Analog Circuit Behaviour) modelling technology

How the CR-78 patterns, fills and variations work

Sound shaping with decay, tuning, gain and metallic tone

MIDI CC control and DAW automation

Live performance workflow and pattern programming

Why this is so much more than just a retro drum machine

If you love vintage drum machines, classic analog rhythms, synthwave, post-punk, electronic music production or hardware-accurate software instruments, this is one you don’t want to miss.

🎛 Classic analog warmth
🥁 Programmable rhythms & fills
🎚 Deep sound design
🎹 Full MIDI control
🔥 Perfect for synthwave, electro, indie, pop & film scoring

The CR-78 may look simple — but it’s a seriously powerful creative tool once you start digging in."

Hacking the Korg Phase8 to uncover NEW SOUNDS

video upload by Oscillator Sink

"The Korg Phase8 has been present in the collective synth-nerd consciousness for a few years, as Korg’s Berlin skunkworks department have slowly released details and demo’d prototypes, most notably at the last two Superbooth events. An iconic, mainstream synth manufacturer like Korg, exploring and experimenting with an entirely new concept in how synthesis can be used was an exciting prospect, and captured a lot of people’s imaginations - mine included.

I was lucky enough to find time to explore those prototypes at the previous two Superbooths, and even more lucky to have Korg approach me with a completed production model to make a video about.

The final model is an impressive physical instrument, with Korg Berlin’s industrial design chops on display, but I’m here mostly to talk about the sound and the functionality of the Phase 8, so in this video I’ll explore how it operates solo, how it can be integrated into a larger setup, try out some “extended techniques” and discuss where I feel the Phase 8 could be pushed further.

Transparency notice: Korg kindly sent over the Phase8 to make videos about. They haven't requested or been granted any oversight of the contents of the videos. I haven't otherwise been paid, but I do get to keep the unit shown in this video."

Chapters:
00:00 Intro
01:04 What is Phase8?
03:36 Voices, Resonators and Tuning
06:17 The voice controls
07:58 The Air Control
09:03 The Mod Effects
12:44 The Sequencer
17:51 "Strum"
18:57 Control Voltage and Sync
22:13 MIDI control and CC
27:25 Can it DRONE?
29:35 Acoustic Feedback
31:53 Phase8's Untapped Potential
40:30 Final Thoughts

Korg Phase8 Review: What happens when Physical Resonators meet Synthesis?

video upload by loopop

"Explore Phase8 at home with my multisamples on Patreon: ► / loopop"

TIMELINE: 0:00 Intro 1:45 Overview 3:15 Vel & env 3:55 Buttons 5:30 Air fader 6:00 Shift 6:20 Pluck 6:50 Drones 7:20 Drone jam 7:50 Build & IO 8:15 In the box 8:35 Mod left 8:55 Mod right 10:25 Mod center 10:50 Settings 11:25 Center #2 11:45 Step seq 12:35 Live seq 13:55 Automation 15:25 MIDI 15:45 Pros & cons 19:00 Three jams

The Phase8 has finally made it to market. Check with dealers on the right for availability.

Press release follows:

KORG Introduces phase8, an Eight-Voice Acoustic Synthesizer

MELVILLE, NY - KORG announces the phase8, an eight-voice acoustic synthesizer designed for musicians and creators who want sound that feels alive, immediate, and deeply responsive. Using Acoustic Synthesis technology developed at KORG, phase8 merges physically vibrating steel resonators with precise electronic control to deliver an instrument that behaves like an acoustic object while offering the creative flexibility of a synthesizer. It answers the need for a new kind of expressive electronic instrument by generating sound in the physical world, responding to touch and interaction, and integrating seamlessly into today’s creative setups through MIDI, USB-MIDI, Sync, and CV connectivity.

At the heart of phase8 are eight independent electromechanical voices driving steel resonators to produce genuinely acoustic vibration. KORG supplies 13 chromatically tuned resonators with the instrument, eight of which can be installed at a time, allowing players to customize the tuning, scale, and character of their setup. Through envelope control, these resonators can move from short, percussive hits to long, sustained tones, encouraging hands-on exploration and performance. The resonators are easily swappable and tunable, making the instrument adaptable to individual playing approaches and musical environments.

phase8 has been designed not only to sound organic, but to feel interactive in use. Players are invited to shape sound directly, touching, plucking, strumming, or tapping the resonators, or even experimenting with found objects to introduce new textures. An AIR slider lets users boost or quiet the acoustic response of what they bring into contact with the instrument, enhancing its tactile, haptic character and underscoring its role as a physical instrument as much as an electronic device.

For structured creativity, phase8 features an intuitive sequencer that supports both step programming and unquantized live recording, with step skip available per voice to enable complex polymetric rhythms. Sequences can be stored and recalled across eight memory slots, while all front-panel parameters can be automated using the record function, allowing evolving passages and detailed motion to be captured directly into performance. Three modulation modes are available, including tremolo and two pitch-dependent audio-rate modulation types, with the final mode offering optional harmonic quantization. A trigger delay, controllable via the instrument’s shift knob, allows delayed resonator triggers relative to the selected or synchronized tempo, further expanding rhythmic expression. phase8 is designed to integrate effortlessly into modern creative workflows. External MIDI devices can trigger the Acoustic Synth, while the phase8 sequencer can, in turn, trigger external MIDI instruments over MIDI or USB-MIDI. Tempo synchronization is available over MIDI, USB-MIDI, and Sync, and CV input (±5V) allows parameter control from compatible analogue hardware. The instrument provides MIDI TRS-A In/Out, USB-C for USB-MIDI and firmware, Sync In/Out, a ¼-inch line audio output, and a 3.5mm headphone output.

Practical considerations match the innovation inside. phase8 runs on a 12V AC adaptor and consumes 4.8W of power. It measures 231 x 236.5 x 46 mm, weighs 1.71 kg, and ships with an AC adaptor, hex key, Quick Start Guide, Precautions Sheet, and five more resonators alongside the included chromatically tuned set. phase8 is a new chapter in expressive instrument design, bringing together acoustic behavior, electronic precision, real-time interaction, and deep sequencing control in a compact, performance-ready form. For more information, please visit NAMM Booth #6802 or online at www.korg.com.

Street Price: $1149.99 USD

Mother Lode synth meetup #3 Pics

A few pics from the latest Mother Lode Synth Meetup sent my way via Brian Comnes.

You can find the full set here.

That's Brian Comnes with the Buchla Music Easel.

Below is Mark Vail, author of Vintage Synthesizers and The Synthesizer with the Beetlecrab Tempura.

Small group shot further below. Be sure to see the full set for more.

P.S. Brian also had an iPad with the following to say: "Had fun showing Textquencer app , it converts text to midi notes, quite the sequencer, the letter A is the root note. I used our mailing list as the source text 😁. It’s also good with foreign languages with a lot of vowels like Hawaiian or Native American sources.

I also think Igor Vasiliev’s GLITCHSCAPER app for percussion is great, certainly not an 808/909 cliche"

Also: "in that picture I did an a/b comparison between the $5k Easel and the $200 KORG [Volca] modular with midi hack, and IMHO the KORG did pretty good😛"

See the Mother Lode label for additional posts.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Bastl Introduces CITADEL Alchemist Eurorack Module

video upload by Bastl Instruments

Check with dealers on the right for availability and price.

Playlist:

1. CITADEL ALCHEMIST & Kastle 2+Citadel DIY Kits & more NEWS from Bastl!

We built a fantasy world of magical music machines with the FX Wizard multi-effect, the Wave Bard sample player and the Alchemist synth that live in battery powered Kastle 2 format and the Citadel eurorack version. We are excited to not only announce the late arrival of the Citadel Alchemist Eurorack module to the party, but to let everyone know that all the instruments are now available as DIY kits and that we are partially open-sourcing it so the world we started could be expanded by many others."

2. Bastl CITADEL Alchemist - All Synth Modes preview

"A complete preview of Alchemist's Synth Modes with a quick preview of the Dual FX and a small jam."

Chapters:
00:00 Filter
00:44 FM
01:32 Supersaw
02:25 Hypersine
03:24 GlitchNoise
03:41 Dual FX
04:27 Small Jam and patching

3. Hello Alchemist ! Bastl Citadel synth engine rave to experimental - Stazma and Bastl Instruments

Alchemist is now EURORACK... into the CITADEL!!!!!
So here we go checking out how this synth engine will play out with his other citadel friend the Wave Bard in breakbeat torture mode.
Also a cool oportunity to play around the Diktaat from Mzourack to trigger both units in a performative way.

Citadel Alchemist is a patchable hybrid-synthesis based eurorack module that empowers you in discovering melodies and even harmonies despite being monophonic.
Patch programmable sequencing via the control signals into the two PITCH MOD inputs opens up a world of melodic inspiration beyond classic arpeggios while staying in your preferred SCALE.

5 synthesis modes
The Alchemist has a carefully tuned wide timbral range spanning across 5 synthesis modes (FILTER, FM, HYPERSINE, SUPERSAW and GLITCHNOISE) accessed by main TIMBRE sweep that is refined by the RATIO control.

The ENV macro knob affects different parts of the synth and sequencing engine to maximize musicality and it even lets you continually morph between the synthesis modes and access truly unique sounds.
The timbral palette is further extended by the dual FX section which offers either a wide delay that will smear the arpeggios into echoed harmonies or a chorus-flanger-distortion-combfilter macro custom tuned for each synth mode.
You can also access gliding rubber textures with the PITCH SLIDE macro that applies pitch envelope and portamento.
You can customize its rhythms and scales with the web-based editor.
Modulate anything
All main parameters can be modulated and tightly sequenced by the surprisingly powerful CV and GATE pattern generator. Create groovy off-grid beats using the built-in LFO, which can be synced, reset, or left to run freely.

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Serendipity L-Thing vs D-Thing+: Upgrades for Moog DFAM & Labyrinth

video upload by Noisegate and Sam Stosuur

"We patch both modules together, sync them via Mother-32, and explore how they interact with DFAM, Labyrinth, and Teenage Engineering Rhythm for a wild semi-modular jam.

The D-Thing+ transforms the Moog DFAM, adding reset, swing, step control, micro-timing, shuffle, reverse, random modes, and MIDI/CV clocking — turning a brilliant but limited sequencer into a powerful performance instrument.

The L-Thing is built to pair with Moog’s Labyrinth, providing dual clocks, polymeter and polyrhythm modes, Euclidean rhythm options, and generative sequencing that pushes Labyrinth far beyond its stock behavior — while still working with any CV-capable synth.

TIMESTAMPS

0:00 — Intro: Serendipity + what we’re testing
0:23 — Why DFAM needs this (no reset, studio workflow)
2:23 — D-Thing+ reset explained (DFAM’s biggest quirk)
2:52 — Step length control (1–8 steps)
3:43 — Multi menu: step loops beyond 8 steps
4:58 — Micro menu: per-step microtiming / swing feel
5:02 — Sequencer modes overview (normal, reverse, bounce, odd/even, shuffle)
6:34 — Random mode + MIDI/CV modes
8:35 — L-Thing intro + what it unlocks on Labyrinth
10:03 — Patching L-Thing to Labyrinth (clock + bit flip)
11:06 — Sync setup: D-Thing+ clocking L-Thing + reset in sync
11:34 — LFOs + using it with other Moog (Grandmother/Matriarch)
12:44 — Polymeter setup: beats/bar + length tricks
13:42 — Polyrhythm mode (firmware note + chaos)
14:59 — Fast performance tweaks / weirdness
17:56 — Wrap-up: who these are for + closing

👉 Check out Serendipity Synths for more: https://thewessens.net/Serendipity/ma..."

The D-Thing is a device that adds significant capabilities to the DFAM (or Edge) sequencer, such as:

MIDI integration — clocking and individual step play,
Reset — manual, via CV or via MIDI,
Variations in the step order — Forward, Reverse, Bounce, Odds & Evens, Shuffle, Random and Custom,
Changing the sequence length — 1 to 8 steps (up to 16 steps for a custom step order),
Step repeat — assign a play count of up to 8 times to any step,
Off-grid timing — swing beat as well as arbitrary shifts away from the beat.

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Introducing MPC XL | The Next-Generation Flagship Standalone MPC for Sampling and Sequencing by Akai

video upload by Akai Professional

MPC XL Overview | Akai Professional

video upload by Akai Professional

MPC XL with Teddy Riley | Akai Professional

video upload by Akai Professional

And a user video by loopop:

Review: Akai MPC XL vs MPC X // MPC 3.7's biggest new feature // Using MPCe

video upload by loopop

THE FLAGSHIP OF ALL STANDALONES
MPC XL has everything you need for pro-level music making. It features ultra-responsive MPCe pads, a dedicated step sequencer, touch-sensitive Q-Links with OLED displays, a next-gen 8-core processor, 16 GB RAM, hands-on performance controls, advanced sequencing tools, deep I/O connectivity, and so much more. Integrated with MPC3 OS, this system supports up to 32 plugin instruments, 16 audio tracks, and 256 voices, making it a studio-grade workhorse.

A COMPLETE STUDIO CENTERPIECE
The flagship of all standalone music production systems, MPC XL is an all-in-one studio hub. Produce your entire album, drive your external hardware, and command your setup from one powerful instrument—no computer required.

POWERFUL PROCESSING
Powered by a new Gen 2 8-core processor with 16GB of RAM, MPC XL delivers four times the performance of previous MPCs. Load multiple plugin instruments, run complex sessions, and navigate your projects without interruption.

CREATIVE CONTROL AT YOUR FINGERTIPS
MPCe pads with 3D-sensing technology brings a new level of expression to beatmaking and production. Each pad features four distinct quadrants, enabling advanced X/Y control, sound morphing, looping, layering, and modulation for the most dynamic playing experience.

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