Inside the 505 String Machine with Dan Chmielinski & Troels Folmann

video upload by Soundpaint

"Get the 505 String Machine here: https://soundpaint.com/products/505-e...

Go inside the making of one of the most iconic string machines ever captured.

Troels Folmann and Dan “Chimy” Chmielinski break down the process behind 505 String Machine, from obsessive ultra-deep sampling to preserving the raw character of the legendary Roland RS-505 String Machine. This is more than a recreation. It is a deep dive into the philosophy, detail, and decisions that bring a classic instrument back to life.

Used by artists like Vangelis, The Police, Depeche Mode, The Cure, New Order, Jean-Michel Jarre, and Herbie Hancock, the RS-505 helped define the sound of an era. Often living in the shadow of the Yamaha CS-80 synthesizer, it was the evolving texture underneath. The movement, the depth, the feeling."

The Crow Hill Company Introduces the THE SH*T SYNTH

The Sh*t Synth - Walkthrough video upload by CROW HILL XTRAS

Press release follows:


The Crow Hill Company turns to extensive and rare collection to turn out THE SH*T SYNTH as compendium of 48 circuit-, wave- and sample-bent instruments

EDINBURGH, UK: The Crow Hill Company is proud to turn to its own extensive and rare collection of hardware to turn out THE SH*T SYNTH — available as a compendium of 48 circuit-, wave- and sample-bent instruments inspired by some of the Edinburgh-based enterprise’s eclectic musical favourites (spanning the likes of Aphex Twin, Boards Of Canada, Joe Maus, Jon Brion, Laurie Spiegel, Radiohead, Throbbing Gristle, and Yazoo) to create something that they collectively ask: is it just shit or ‘the shit’? — as of April 7…

Whatever way anyone chooses to read into the titling of THE SH*T SYNTH as the latest entry into The Crow Hill’s ongoing ORIGINS series of sample-based virtual instrument plug-ins, one thing is for sure: it readily represents a broad selection of three categories of 16 workhorse instruments each, effectively wrapped up into a single plug-in designed to bring a cohesive approach to making music more edgy, lo-fi, retro, and — swimming against the technological tide of so-called progress — decidedly AI (Artificial Intelligence) slop-free. From pianos to strings, plucks, beeps, bass, and pads, the compendium that is THE SH*T SYNTH has been lovingly sculpted by the Edinburgh-based enterprise’s media composer and ‘samplist-in-residence’ Christian Henson to take the hassle out of making existing sounds less refined, catering to those looking for an entirely new bank of Mellotron-style sounds as well as synths that have been long forgotten — for good reason, too!

CLICK FOR MORE »

Genki KATLA - THE VOLCANO SYNTH!! Now Available

video upload by Starsky Carr

"What happens when a synthesizer completely breaks the rules?
In this video, we explore the Genki KATLA — a truly unique polysynth inspired by Icelandic volcanoes, featuring a rotating voice architecture, hybrid signal path, and some of the most unpredictable sound design possibilities I’ve come across.

This isn’t your typical analog polysynth. Each of the five voices can run independently with different waveforms, octaves, and modulation — creating evolving textures, harmonic movement, and generative-style sounds that feel closer to modular synthesis than traditional keyboards.

🎛️ What makes the KATLA special?
• Rotating voice polyphony (round robin-style synthesis)
• Independent per-voice oscillators & tuning
• Digital oscillators + analog filter signal path
• Looping envelopes reaching audio-rate modulation
• Phase distortion, wavefolding & multiple distortion types
• Tape-style wow, flutter & pitch instability effects
• Stereo voice movement & evolving spatial modulation
• External inputs for processing other gear

From lush ambient pads to aggressive, evolving sequences — this synth can go places most instruments simply can’t. It’s not about recreating vintage sounds… it’s about discovering entirely new ones.

💸 At around €5000, this is definitely not a beginner synth — but for sound designers, and anyone looking for something truly different, it well worth a look."

Genki Katla Sound Design: Making sounds from scratch and exploring
video upload by MR TUNA Music

Chapters: 0:00 - Intro 0:16 - Init patch 0:44 - Filter sounds 1:26 - Raising 1 voice 1:43 - Creating a basic pluck sound 2:24 - Aftertouch controls 2:45 - Bring in a little reverb 2:56 - LFO to filter cutoff 3:16 - LFO to reverb mix 3:46 - Keyboard cutoff 4:00 - Osc 3 Square wave 4:23 - Sub oscillator 4:54 - KATLA parameters 5:01 - Rústir wavefolder 6:08 - Rökkur stereospreader 6:37 - Skriða envelope randomizer 7:27 - Aska random modulations 7:57 - Glóð tape stops and flutters 8:35 - Skjálfti ??? 9:14 - Kvika slow tape modulations 9:38 - dark pads 10:20 - Móða voice detuning 11:20 - Katla sounds with aftertouch 13:28 - Thanks for watching

"Hey guys! Very very excited to be presenting the Genki Katla to you all... I am truly in awe of the sound of this very unique and powerful instrument.

I thought the best way to get to know the synth is to start from scratch so in this video we'll go full hands-on with the Genki Katla, exploring (almost) every parameter and building sounds from an initialized patch.

From some raw drone layers and gritty textures to evolving pads, rhythmic sequences, and atmospheric beds, we will see just what this instrument can do, discover new sounds, and maybe make some friends along the way 🙏

If you're into sound design, unique synths, or just love discovering new instruments, this one is for you!

HUGE thanks to Genki for letting me a part of this with them and showing off this super cool synth.

No money was paid, no agreements were made... these are my real thoughts on this very premium synthesizer and I will be sharing lots more."

Press release follows:


Genki Instruments announces availability of Katla as Voice Rotating Polyphonic Synthesizer inspired by its natural namesake

REYKJAVIK, ICELAND: having twice blown European musical minds thanks to show-stealing showcases at SUPERBOOTH25, May 8-10, Berlin, Germany and Machina Bristronica 2025, September 27-28, Bristol, UK, before adventuring across the pond for a repeat performance at Buchla & Friends 2026, January 24-25, LA, CA, USA, Reykjavik-based instrument developer Genki Instruments is proud to announce availability of the eagerly-awaited Katla as a Voice Rotating Polyphonic Synthesizer inspired by Iceland’s largest subglacial volcano as its natural namesake — readily representing the company’s first foray into analogue synthesis, albeit one that uniquely utilises a set of wildcard parameters to infuse it with organic, unpredictable behaviour as an instrument that is worthy of that legacy, excelling at generating rich, evolving, multi-layered textures, where each note stirs, swells, and erupts in its own distinct way — as of March 31…

Clearly Katla’s inspiration runs through its ‘volcanic’ veins. After all, it is framed by side panels and knobs forged from authentic Icelandic lava, giving each instrument a tangible connection to the volcanic forces that inspired it. That this synth should surely roar is a given. Genki Instruments inevitably chose, therefore, to kit Katla out with four independent distortion destinations, the most unruly of which is a stereo CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) Drive effect — a characterful saturation stage, pushing tones from warm and rounded to fractured and snarling.

CLICK FOR MORE »

ELEKTRON DIGITONE MKII FM SYNTHESIZER SEQUENCER GROOVEBOX

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this listing

Additional Signal Sounds listings

"We say...
A pre-owned Elektron Digitone MKII in excellent condition. It comes with all original packaging and accessories.

Manufacturer's description
Step into a new realm of sound with the Digitone II, an evolution of Elektron’s original FM synthesiser, now offering expanded polyphony and enhanced creative control. With 16 tracks (versus the original’s 8) and a flexible 16-voice polyphony, you can unleash complex soundscapes across synth or MIDI tracks. Digitone II introduces four selectable synth machines (Wavetone, Swarmer, FM Tone, and FM Drum) and six dynamic filter machines, providing far more sonic variety than its predecessor. The improved 128-step sequencer, along with Euclidean sequencing and advanced modulation options, invites you to explore limitless creative possibilities. Packed with powerful effects, deeper sound-shaping tools, and a modular workflow.

Expanded Polyphony and Synth Machines:
While the original Digitone offered 8 voices and 4 synth tracks, the Digitone II doubles the polyphony to 16 voices and expands the tracks to 16, allowing for far more layered compositions. In addition, the four new synthesis machines (Wavetone, Swarmer, FM Tone, FM Drum) go beyond standard FM synthesis, offering greater creative potential for crafting rich melodic, rhythmic, and percussive sounds.

Enhanced Sequencing and Performance Features:
Digitone II features a 128-step sequencer—twice the length of the original Digitone's—enabling more complex patterns and compositions. The addition of Euclidean mode per track offers a fresh approach to sequencing, making it easier to generate evolving rhythms. With individual pattern length, time scale multipliers, and enhanced trig conditions, the Digitone II’s sequencing features are a leap forward from the original, giving you deeper control over your compositions.

Advanced Modulation and Effects:
The Digitone II builds on its predecessor’s modulation and effects capabilities, with three assignable LFOs per voice (up from two in the original) and added effects like digital overdrive, bit reduction, and sample rate reduction per voice. The inclusion of master effects like the stereo compressor and overdrive means you can fine-tune your final mix, while send effects like Saturator Delay and Supervoid Reverb add depth and dimension to your sounds."

ELEKTRON OCTATRACK MK2 SEQUENCER & SAMPLER

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this listing

Additional Signal Sounds listings

We say...
A pre-owned Elektron Octatrack MK2 in very good condition. It appears to have been originally sold as a b-stock unit. It has all original packaging and accessories.

Manufacturer's description
With the Octatrack MKII, discovering the perfect sample is only the beginning. Twist it, distort it, and carve it into something that is truly yours. Dynamic in name and nature: this is the ultimate sampler for recording sessions, creative kick-starts, and improvisational performances. A stereo sampler, looper, arranger, mixing and effects hub, workstation, performance instrument: you name it. Its power scales and evolves with you during your musical journey.

The Octatrack MKII redefines how you transform your sounds, as well as how you interact and play with them. It is a stereo sampler, processor, and live looper with a powerful sequencer and workstation workflow on top. Choose between several custom machines – static, flex, thru, neighbor, pickup – to suit your sample recording, manipulation, and effects processing needs for each of the eight tracks.

CLICK FOR MORE »

ELEKTRON MODEL:CYCLES SIX TRACK FM GROOVEBOX

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this listing

Additional Signal Sounds listings

"We say...
A pre-owned Elektron Model:Cycles in very good condition. It has no original packaging but comes with its USB cable and power supply

Manufacturer's description

Scale angles dense and jagged, glide over plains vast and fluid or sink into mists of dissonance. To model is to shape the formless. Model:Cycles is a six-track FM-based groovebox that brings exploring into the heart of sound sculpting. With six unique machines in one lightweight unit, you can effortlessly mold rhythm and melody across the digital spectrum using instant, tactile controls. Exploration made attainable.

The six machines of the digital FM engine cover both percussive and melodic synths, allowing you to make full, varied compositions. The four core synth controls put the tools of sound sculpting right in front of you, altering the behavior of each machine differently and letting you push them to the limit. Every sound has a start, where will you take it?

CLICK FOR MORE »

POLYEND TRACKER MINI PORTABLE AUDIO WORKSTATION

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this listing

Additional Signal Sounds listings

"A pre-owned Polyend Tracker Mini in very good condition. It comes with original packaging and accessories.

Manufacturer's description
Discover the ultimate portable music workstation with the Tracker Mini. Designed for seamless composition, sampling, sound design, and performance, this device offers an expanded 16-track sequencer alongside unique synth and drum machine engines for unparalleled flexibility. With support for 14 stereo tracks of USB Audio and USB MIDI, it's perfect for multi-track recording into a DAW or hybrid setups. Enjoy up to eight hours of battery life for on-the-go creativity, and keep your Tracker Mini safe with the included travel case. Whether in the studio or outdoors, the Tracker Mini empowers musicians to create, mix, master, and export their music effortlessly.

Synths and Drum Machines:
The Tracker Mini excels with four advanced synth engines and a new drum machine synth, focusing on superior sound quality. The intuitive Synth Patch Editor speeds up patch creation and customization, offering a vast range of sounds. From lush pads and intricate arpeggios to powerful basses and robust electronic drums, the Tracker Mini is a synth powerhouse that meets all your creative needs. Dive into ACD for iconic monosynth recreations, FAT for rich analog warmth, VAP for complex polysynth designs, and WTFM for unique FM synthesis. The PERC drum instrument covers everything from classic 808s and 909s to experimental glitch effects.

Studio in Your Hands:
The Tracker Mini provides everything required to produce an album. Start with an included sample pack or explore over 250 synth presets. Record your own sounds, convert samples to instruments, and resample synth engines. Control external devices seamlessly, whether crafting simple beats or complex compositions. Mix, master, and export your songs with ease, making the Tracker Mini an all-in-one solution for any musician. Compatible with projects from the original Tracker, you can begin a song in the studio and finish it on the go, ensuring flexibility and convenience in your music production process.

Breathe Life into Your Tracks:
Transform your surroundings into a musical canvas with the Tracker Mini’s high-quality microphone and onboard battery, offering up to eight hours of playtime. Capture sonic memories from a camping trip or your morning commute to create unique sample packs and drum kits. This portable device inspires creativity beyond the studio, enabling you to store, manipulate, and draw inspiration from real-world sounds. The Tracker Mini ensures that wherever inspiration strikes, you're equipped to turn those moments into music."

Turing Machine, Workshop System & Planet of the Apes! // Music Thing Modular at Machina Bristronica

video upload by DivKid

"It's a pleasure to look back at the last Machina Bristronica event (2025) and share this video with Tom Whitwell of Music Thing Modular from the DivKid Discussions stage. We talk about origins, Thonk acting like a record label, Turing Machines, Radio Music and the Workshop System which has inspired and built community and created collaborations, before rounding out on some unexpected connections to Planet of the Apes!

Machina Bristronica is taking a year off for 2026, but will be back in 2027. Check out videos from the DivKid Discussions stage, Machina news and updates and all about Music Thing Modular at the links.

CLICK FOR MORE »

novation circuit tracks circuit rhythm techno trance electronica jam

video upload by Underground Modulation

"🔥 Energetic Techno Groovebox Jam | Dawless Performance

In this video I perform an energetic techno groovebox jam using two powerful machines: the Novation Circuit Tracks and the Novation Circuit Rhythm. This dawless techno setup shows how these two grooveboxes perfectly complement each other in a live performance environment.

Both Circuits handle rhythmic and melodic elements, creating a full techno track entirely from hardware sequencing. The Circuit Tracks provides synth parts and sequencing, while the Circuit Rhythm adds powerful drum patterns and sample-based grooves. Everything is performed and sequenced live on the devices, making this a true hardware techno jam .

The final mastering of the track was done in Ableton Live to polish the sound while keeping the raw energy of the live performance.

If you enjoy dawless techno jams, groovebox performances, and electronic music hardware, this setup is a great example of how compact gear can produce a powerful underground techno sound."

Drum Machine plugin preset for Decent Sampler (MaskinTrommer)

video upload by Benjamin Dehli

"MaskinTrommer is a drum sample library for Decent Sampler, featuring electronic drum sounds created from analog synthesizers. Each drum type contains multiple samples per sound to eliminate the typical 'machine gun' effect associated with digital sample based drum machines.

The drum sounds were created using:
Korg MS-20
Roland SH-09
Doepfer Dark Energy
Sequential Circuits Pro-One
The result is a versatile collection of synthetic kicks, snares, hi-hats, cymbals, and toms with a broad tonal range, from tight and percussive to big and sustaining.

User Interface:
The interface is divided into two main areas
Left section: Individual drum controls and sample mixer
Right section: Global settings and effects
The keyboard at the bottom is color-coded to match each drum section, making it easy to identify the mapping.

Drum Settings
The top row of knobs in each drum section controls the primary sound-shaping parameters.

Pitch (Kick & Snare):
Adjusts the tuning of the drum.
Turning clockwise raises the pitch.
Turning counterclockwise lowers the pitch.
Affects both sample types for the kick and the "body" samples for the snare.

Sustain (Snare, Hi-Hat, Cymbal, Tom):
Controls which sustain-length samples are triggered.
For snare and tom, it only affects the "head" samples.
Lower values select shorter, tighter sounds.
Higher values select longer sustaining samples.
Dyn (Dynamic) mode:
Higher MIDI velocity → longer sustaining samples
Lower MIDI velocity → shorter sustaining samples

This allows expressive control directly from performance dynamics.

Drum Mixer
The second and third rows of knobs in each drum section form the sample mixer.
Each knob controls the volume of a specific sample type for that drum.
The knob design visually represents which synthesizer the samples originate from.

Sample Type Blending:
You can blend multiple synthesizer sources for a single drum.
Each active source contributes its own round robin variations.
Combining sources dramatically increases variation and complexity.

Display Indicators:
Some mixer knobs include a small display.
The display shows how the samples assigned to that knob are influenced by either pitch (kick & snare) or sustain (snare, hi-hat, cymbal & tom).
This provides quick visual feedback when shaping the sound.

Global Settings
Located in the rightmost section.

Sensitivity:
Controls how strongly MIDI velocity affects sample volume.
Lower values → More consistent volume regardless of velocity
Higher values → Greater dynamic range
This allows you to tailor the instrument to your playing style or sequencing needs.

Global Effects
Impact:
Controls the level of the transient (initial attack) relative to the sustain portion.
Higher values → Louder attack, quieter sustain
Lower values → More even balance between attack and body
This is useful for tightening drums or making them cut through a mix.

Saturation:
A volume-compensated overdrive/distortion effect.
Adds harmonic content and edge.
Maintains perceived loudness while increasing intensity.
Suitable for subtle coloration or more aggressive processing.

Keyboard Layout
The on-screen keyboard is color-coded to match the drum sections:
Kick (pink): C1
Snare (blue): D1
Closed hi-hat (green): E1
Open hi-hat (green): F1
Cymbal (yellow): G1
Tom (red): A1 to G2
This makes it easy to identify which keys trigger which drums, especially during performance.

Equipment used:
Doepfer Dark Energy
Korg MS-20
Roland SH-09
Sequential Circuits Pro-One

Technical specification:
Sample rate: 48 kHz
Bit depth: 24 bit
Channels: 1 (mono)
Number of samples: 342
File size: 80.4 MB


Website: https://www.dehlimusikk.no/
Store: https://store.dehlimusikk.no/"

Perfect Pads - Soundset for Waldorf Protein

video upload by WaldorfMusicChannel

"https://waldorfmusic.com/produkt/soun...

This inaugural Protein soundset brings the acclaimed Perfect Pads series – previously available for the Waldorf Iridium and Quantum – to Waldorf’s newest synthesizer Protein.

Featuring 32 meticulously crafted pad presets designed to showcase the full depth and character of the Protein sound engine. Drawing on the powerful synthesis architecture of the Protein and rich wavetable palette, this collection delivers some of the widest, warmest, and most expressive pads available on the Waldorf Protein. Each patch is immediately playable and musically inspiring, making the pack ideal for a wide range of genres – from ambient and cinematic to electronic and experimental – while also providing an excellent starting point for further tweaking and sound design.

Harry van Mierloo is an emerging international sound designer and creative design professional from the Netherlands. He blends the sound of classic analog synthesizers with the power of modern machines – perfect for artists seeking highly usable patches or fresh inspiration as a starting point for everyday day studio work. For many years, Harry has been fascinated by the wonderfully rich and emotional touch that pad sounds can add to music. He has now crafted and released his second official soundset called ‘Perfect Pads 2’ for the Iridium & Quantum."

Cosmotronic MESSOR PEDAL / a serious COMPRESSOR for the studio or the stage / extensive playthrough

video upload by BRiES

"In this video we discover what the reinvented MESSOR pedal by Cosmotronic can do to a variety of sound sources. We also have a look at all the controls.

Want to know more?
Cosmotronic Messor Pedal webpage: https://cosmotronic.nl/modules/messor...

0:00 intro
2:30 features explanation
17:07 drums and loops
34:47 sidechain example
41:53 full mix and stems
55:23 closing thoughts
57:09 thank you for watching!
57:22 outro"

A COMPACT ANALOG COMPRESSOR

Messor is a fully analog stereo feed-forward VCA compressor designed for studio, modular, and live systems. The architecture is derived from the original Cosmotronic eurorack module, with extended headroom, improved channel matching, and a revised sidechain topology optimized for wide dynamic ranges.

HIGH HEADROOM

The internal ±12 V regulated power rail provides substantial headroom and consistent operating conditions for both line-level and modular-level sources. It reliably handles high-transient material from synthesizers, drum machines, and percussion-heavy sources without premature clipping. High-impedance inputs and balanced outputs simplify interfacing with modular systems, samplers, and balanced studio equipment.

Signal flow begins with a low-noise stereo preamplifier offering up to 18 dB of gain, followed by a pair of matched VCA control blocks. The feed-forward topology provides predictable transient behavior, accurate envelope shaping, and stable stereo imaging. A post-VCA conditioning stage adds tube-like saturation, introducing controlled harmonic content when driven into overload.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)

video uploads by Modular Commune

The above is a playlist of performances for the event. You can find the full list below. You can use the player controls to skip around.

"13-16/11/2025
Gearing Space in 798 Art District, Beijing, China
Modular synthesizer live performance

Photographer: 包子
Camera operator: Tabriss, 千两道化,翰海, 孙太阳, Moy
Recording/Mastering: Ocicat
Video edit: ‪@tamiX-tamiX‬

1st video features TONYLIGHT with the following: 'I’ve used a lot of synths over the years but this one is something different… it’s a strange instrument. It’s small, much smaller than it appears in photos: it is part synth, part drum machine, part multi-track sequencer. I’m still figuring it all out but initial impressions are that it’s very unpredictable and slightly unstable… but in a good way.'"

https://www.leploop.org/

Full Playlist:

1. TONYLIGHT - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
2. Tatsuya Takahashi & Layne - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
3. Solar Bird - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
4. Ninando - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
5. Masayoshi Sakaguchi - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
6. HATAKEN - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
7. Linear Straight / Radical G - - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
8. Nagelluck - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
9. espinoza - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
10. Crystal Dolls aka Manuel - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
11. bunyi - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
12. お化け学 obakegaku & ÉON - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
13. Toyota Vangelis - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
14. Thomas Fang - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
15. Tangie - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
16. Randombrothers - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
17. Paul Tas - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
18. Melting - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
19. Alpha Decay - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
20. Ninando - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
21. Oykni - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
22. Making Sound Machines - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
23. Eric Schlappi - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
24. Ëgg - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
25. [Trailer] Modular Commune Festival Beijing 25
26. 隽皓 (CS_Star) - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
27. 泻火 - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
28. 昌平电 X 研究所 - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
29. 刘博雍 - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
30. Gia Wang - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
31. Jarrod Radnich - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
32. Huzz - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
33. Eddie Chen - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
34. Seven 九 - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
35. MCV - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
36. Nian YongXin - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
37. 王凯文 - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
38. 88pluto and Jah Young - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
39. Ayshém 艾闪 - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
40. Black Potion - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
41. acid.T - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
42. GUOFEI aka OSCPLLEX - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
43. daftcat & 于舒洋 - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
44. Erdna - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
45. Juju - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
46. Loop Fighter - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
47. 阿拉坦怪怪 - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
48. 周揚 - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
49. Li Yanzeng 李言增 - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
50. 呆呆鸟 - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
51. Noby_Owl 鸮鸣 - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
52. 肖雄文、张子博、凌诚、刘子汶 - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
53. Alan Ip - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
54. GXM - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
55. thruoutin - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
56. WEN LIANG 文亮 & Clouded5000郭大为 - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
57. GUAN - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
58. Vehement - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
59. Immortal Manifestation 遊仙 - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
60. J Stone - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)

RetroSound Studio Tour: The Drum Machines

video upload by RetroSound

"Welcome to the heartbeat of RetroSound Studio
Explore legendary vintage drum machines like the Roland TR-808, LinnDrum, Simmons SDS-8 and more in this classic drum machine studio tour.

From analog rhythm boxes to early digital drum machines that shaped electronic music history.
Now step inside the studio and explore a legendary collection of classic drum machines that shaped electronic music, hip-hop, synth-pop, house, and early techno.

In this studio tour, we showcase iconic rhythm machines including the Roland TR-808, TR-707, TR-606, Boss DR-55, Boss DR-110, Boss DR-220A, Boss DR-220E, Keio Minipops Junior, LinnDrum LM-2, Sequential Circuits Drumtraks, Korg KR-55B, Simmons SDS-8, and the rare Solton Programmer 24.
These vintage drum machines defined the sound of the 70s, 80s, and early 90s — from deep analog kicks and crunchy digital snares to iconic patterns still used in modern music production today. Every machine in this video is fully functional, synced, and used in real studio workflows.

Perfect for fans of vintage drum machines, analog rhythm boxes, classic electronic music gear, retro studio tours, and old-school beat making."

The Drum Machine list:
0:06 Roland TR-808
1:06 Roland TR-707
1:59 Roland TR-606
2:37 Boss DR-55
3:40 Boss DR-110
4:28 Boss DR-220A
5:14 Boss DR-220E
6:04 Keio Minipops Junior
7:50 Korg KR-55B
8:55 Sequential Circuits Drumtraks
11:24 LinnDrum LM-2
12:48 Simmons SDS-8
14:49 Tama TSQ-1000
15:37 Solton Programmer 24

Shop: https://retrosound.creator-spring.com/
Bandcamp: https://retrosound.bandcamp.com/"

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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ASM Leviasynth | Sounds and Key Features | Synth Universe

video upload by Synth Universe

"A musical exploration of Leviasynth, Ashun Sound Machines’ successor to the Hydrasynth. Leviasynth is an 8 oscillator algorithmic synthesizer with analog and digital filters and five types of synthesis.

All the sounds featured in this video were created by me and are included in the Leviasynth factory presets (except Synfluctuate and PD keys which may be released by ASM as part of future banks). If you own or try out a Leviasynth, you can browse patches by sound designer and select Synth Universe to find all my sounds. Here I have often emphasized sounds that make use of the analog filter, showing the ability of Leviasynth to emulate analog synths, as this is one of the first things I want to know when assessing a hybrid synth. I also feature patches that highlight the other types of synthesis including FM and phase distortion.

This is a deep and powerful ‘monster’ of a synth and so far I have really only scratched the surface of its capabilities. There are too many features to list here so go to Ashun Sound Machines website to find out more.

Disclaimer: ASM sent me a pre-production unit for the purposes of sound design, but otherwise they had no input into the making of this video or the opinions expressed within.

No external enhancement or processing was applied to the sounds in this video: you are hearing them as output directly from the synth.

Note: Leviasynth does have a powerful arpeggiator and sequencer, but as they were still being finalized during the time I created these patches they are not featured in this video."

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DeftAudio Introduces Korg DDD-1 / DDD-5 Programmable PCM Card

video upload by DeftAudio



"The ultimate modern upgrade for your vintage Korg drum machines Bring new life, flexibility, and creative range to your Korg DDD-1, DDD-5, and DRM with the Deftaudio PCM Custom Card, a fully programmable, multi-bank PCM expansion designed for musicians, sound designers, and vintage gear enthusiasts.

Github:
https://github.com/Deftaudio/DDD1_DDD...

Store:
https://deftaudio.com/store/tproduct/...

8 Banks of Instantly Switchable Sounds
The card stores up to 8 PCM banks in non-volatile memory, each selectable via the front-mounted DIP switch panel for fast hands-on switching during sessions or performance.
Each bank provides up to 8 sound slots with roughly 1.5 seconds of shared sample time, ideal for drum hits, percussive textures, stabs, and short FX.

Seamless Integration with Korg DDD-1/DDD-5 OS
All sound names are properly recognized and displayed on the DDD-1/5 screen, making this user-friendly PCM upgrade available.

USB-C Programmable
Load your own samples using the built-in USB-C interface.
Windows companion scripts are included for fully automated import; macOS and Linux users can run them via Parallels, VirtualBox, Wine, or similar environments.
Supports standard WAV files with no special requirements. Sounds are automatically trimmed, resampled, mono converted to maximize utilization of internal memory.

Visual Feedback While You Work
A perimeter LED indicator provides clear visual activity cues while accessing or programming the card, it adds a vintage gear aesthetics.

Open Source & Fully Hackable
Based on PicoROM open-source project, the Deftaudio PCM Custom Card is highly modifiable for developers and power users who want to customize behavior, storage layouts, or even firmware.
PCM conversion scripts are highly modifiable and tweakable. Based on previous work of R-Massive and shared back with a community.
Fully Github documented, DIY community is welcomed."

Ashun Sound Machines Introduces DIOSYNTH Wind Synthesizer

DIOSYNTH A Sonic Odyssey with Joe Berry by Exploredinary

video upload by ASM Ashun Sound Machines

"Diosynth - a powerful new wind synthesizer that combines the award winning Hydrasynth synthesis engine with new sample playback engine as well in an instantly familiar form factor utilizing mouthpiece with reed sensor for bite, breath sensor, gyroscope for positional sensing, true key action and a host of tactile controls . for more info please visit Ashunsoundmachines.com

Video by: @exploredinary
Starring/Original Music by: @joemarcelberry
Creative Direction: @danieltroberg
Product Specialist: @flux302
Product Design and Management: @glendarceyaudio
Animation by: @driensky_drawings
Styling and Movement Direction by: @toogiesaurus"

Welcome to Diosynth - Introduction Video

video upload by ASM Ashun Sound Machines

"Today at Ashun Sound Machines, we are proud to announce the Diosynth wind synthesizer.

The Diosynth is a new wind synthesizer designed for great playability and sound creation. With a real key action that is familier to most woodwind players it is easy to pick up and play. The Hydrasynth® based sound engine + the addition of a sample playback oscillator allows for deep synthesizer sounds as well as acoustic sound playing and processing.

In this video, CEO of Ashun Sound Machines, Glen Darcey, introduces you to the features of this amazing new electronic wind synthesizer instrument."

Introducing ASM Manager : Walkthrough Tutorial
video upload by ASM Ashun Sound Machines

"The ASM Manager is a software librarian designed to ease organization of your Hydrasynth patches as well as updating your Hydrasynth firmware.
For more information please head to Ashunsoundmachines.com
Download the new Firmware and manager here https://www.ashunsoundmachines.com/do...
The new ASM Manager is a dedicated desktop application designed to simplify how users interact with their Hydrasynth. It replaces the original Hydrasynth Manager with a refreshed interface and smoother workflow, making sound management more efficient and intuitive.

Features include:
• A redesigned, user-friendly UI
• List View for streamlined patch browsing
• Patch Sorting by name, category, and color
• Search by patch name
• Color tagging directly within the browser
• Organize Favorites
• Integrated Hydrasynth Updater for simplified firmware installation
• Export of patch banks as Microsoft Excel® list files for easy referencing

Whether organizing sound libraries, performing updates, or customizing Favorites, ASM Manager enhances everyday interaction with Hydrasynth."

Pic and additional details via Perfect Circuit

"The Diosynth from ASM brings powerful digital synthesis and sampling to a new generation of electronic wind performers, offering a deeply expressive wind synthesizer with a vast timbral range. Combining ASM's expansive synthesis engine design with sample playback, Diosynth is an electronic wind instrument that provides nuanced control over both acoustic and electronic sounds. Mechanical keys offer a premium playing experience that feels familiar for experienced wind players, with versatile fingering modes and quantization options to welcome players of any background. Over eight octaves of notes are provided for uncompromising range, with comprehensive expressive controls including breath and bite sensors, internal gyrometer, X/Y joystick, two pressure pads, and three programmable switches.

In your first moments with Diosynth, you can immediately immerse yourself in 384 patches including everything from traditional wind instruments, rare and unique sounds from around the world, and the vastly expansive internal synthesis engine based on ASM's acclaimed Hydrasynth. Wavescan oscillators and Diosynth's sample playback oscillator can be processed through the ultra-flexible 16-mode filter, providing vast sonic terrain to empower your creativity. Cultivate your own sound with up to 768 storable patch locations on hand, including the ability to create layered sounds that fuse acoustic and electric tones, multiple synth patches, and more. Diving deep into sound design is easy thanks to the Diosynth editor app, allowing for endless exploration into nuanced patch design.

An integrated speaker is available for easy, on-the-go performance, with optional battery power via two 18650 batteries that enables portable playing anywhere the music takes you. The 1/4" stereo output enables easy connectivity into a local amplifier or front of house mix, while the onboard headphone output with dedicated volume control is perfect for those long nights in the woodshed honking to your heart's content. The Diosynth also includes MIDI via 5-Pin DIN and USB connectivity, as well as Bluetooth MIDI input and audio input for wireless practice and performance. Built for a professional performance experience, Diosynth comes with a hardshell case and all necessary cables and accessories, providing a perfect foundation to craft your bespoke performance practice. Whether you're a wind player looking for new sounds or an electronic musician looking to bring nuanced expression to your productions, Diosynth from ASM is a breath of fresh air.


DIOSYNTH FEATURES

Electronic wind synthesizer
Combines both sampling engine and deep synthesizer engine based on ASM's Hydrasynth for both acoustic and electronic sounds
384 factory patches including traditional wind instruments, rare and exotic instruments, and expressive synth patches
128 meticulously sampled instrumental sounds
Use single patches or layer multiple sounds in a single patch
8+ octave range
Mechanical keys for premium and familiar feel
Multiple fingering modes
Scale / chord quantization locking modes
Breath and bite sensors, gyrometer, X/Y joystick, 2x pressure pads, and 3x programmable switches for expressive control
Up to 768 total patch locations for storing user creations
Mac/PC editor and iOS/Android app for simple patch editing and live performance control
MIDI via 5-PIN DIN and USB
Bluetooth MIDI input and audio input for wireless control and backing tracks
Built-in speaker, stereo 1/4" output, and headphone output with dedicated volume control
Powered via USB-C or 2x 18650 batteries (batteries not included)
Includes hard-shell case and all required cables / accessories
Included accessories:
Hard-shell travel case
folding stand
2x mouthpieces
neck strap
power supply with universal power adapters
USB A–C cable
USB C–C cable
USB power Y cord
spit scrunchy
cleaning cloth
printed User guide"

Rare Vintage KORG KEIO (?) CHECKMATE Drum Machine

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this Reverb listing

This appears to be the first one to be featured on the site. It looks a bit like the Wexler ROCKMATE. Teisco made a CHECKMATE keyboard. You can fhand a handful of posts mentioning CHECKMATE here.

Details via the listing:

"A vintage Checkmate drum machine, a true gem from the early days of rhythm boxes. This unit is as much a visual statement as it is a piece of music history: with its golden front panel and large knobs, it’s a guaranteed eye-catcher in any studio or collection.

Fully serviced: all electrolytic capacitors have been replaced, ensuring reliable operation.

Everything works as it should – all rhythms, switches, and controls have been tested.

Runs on a single 9V battery inside the unit, making it portable and hassle-free.

About the Checkmate

The Checkmate belongs to the family of early preset rhythm machines from the late 1960s/early 1970s, often linked with Korg’s DoncaMatic line. These units were designed for accompaniment but quickly became collectible for their quirky analog character and stunning design.

Limited but charming selection of preset rhythms.

Simple analog sound circuitry with a warm, nostalgic tone.

Rarely seen today, making it highly desirable for collectors of vintage drum machines.

Why You’ll Love It

While it won’t replace a modern drum computer in terms of versatility, the Checkmate delivers something unique:

A rare piece of music history that shaped the early years of electronic rhythm.

Unmatched aesthetics – the gold panel and oversized knobs look fantastic both in use and as a display piece.

Collector’s must-have – these machines are increasingly hard to find in good working order.

If you’re a vintage synth/drum machine enthusiast, this is a rare opportunity to own a serviced and working Checkmate drum machine. Perfect as a collector’s item, studio conversation piece, or source of authentic retro rhythms."

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TOM-1501 Soviet Analog Synthesizer - Restored Beauty

video upload by LFOstore

"Russian synths are awful and making terrible harsh and strange sounds?

If you think so, then this will surprise everyone who is familiar with those synths. This is really fat, warm, beautiful sounding real analog, preset string machine.

It's a string machine with 5 preset sounds: Piano, clavesin/Harpsichord, Alto, Violin and Brass.

Alto and Violin are exactly same sound but violin is one octave higher than alto, so you can make "string orchestra" sound.

Mainly I discovered this to be like Crumar Orchestrator/Multiman-s clone. Piano and clavesin/harpsichords are pretty identical sounding, but... Strings aren't typical "Italic" sounding which can be found on all crumar and some others string machines, Neither european (solina) or american (Moog opus) sounding.

They are Unique! They are Fat! They are Warm! They are very beautiful sounding strings. Well... comparing to others, solina is the closest sound to it.

Brass is also pretty identical to Crumar Orchestrator, but it have identical filter from Crumar Performer (very weak resonance). Too bad because in orchestrator it could make such a great sweeps, but this cannot do same. But the cutoff is powerful.

Also, this string machine isn't commonly available. I don't know how many was produced, but the original retail price was $1500!!! So maybe this is indeed very rare, uncommon at least. These were made about in middle or end of 80's.

See these virtual soundsheet of Crumar Orchestrator and peformer. The sounds of Orchestrator's piano and clavesin/harpsichord and brass is identical to this TOM-1501. And the filter from Crumar performer is also identical."