"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.
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.
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.'"
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. Modular Commune Festival Beijing
34. Eddie Chen - Modular Commune Festival Beijing 2025 (Vol.22)
"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
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.
"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."
"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.
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."
"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"
"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."
"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."
"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"
"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."
"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."
"Distortion has been an essential tool for my music making for most of my life, whether that was playing guitar, working with synths in amps, re amping synths and production stems through pedal FX or smashing mixers, tape machines and other gear I've always found it fascinating and with the options to CV control distortion in modular it's even better!
Head Banger from Setonix Synth & Robots Are Red takes the Swedish Death Metal sound of the Boss Heavy Metal pedal, heavily re vamps it for a wide range of input sources, adds CV control and a creative feedback path and presents itself in Eurorack form. While the name and styling lean on the metal heritage it's been interesting to find a subtler warmth and crunch, synths in tube amp like tones and blown out noisy cassette style grunge for more ambient music.
There's a 5% off code for sales of Head Banger at https://www.setonixsynth.com/ with code HEADBANGER5. If you're a Patreon supporter there's an exclusive 15% off code for you at / divkid"
"Step back to 1978 and discover the iconic Roland CR-78, the first programmable drum machine that changed the way artists approached rhythm. Before the 808 and modern drum machines, the CR-78 gave musicians the power to create and store their own drum patterns. In the hands of artists like Phil Collins, Peter Gabriel, and Blondie, it became iconic. For this Vault, we’ve preserved the much-loved character of the CR-78 and expanded its sonic potential with some tasteful effects."
The Crow Hill Company creates …RHYTHM MACHINE as latest free VAULTS… VI, preserving vintage classic’s character while expanding its sonic potential
EDINBURGH, UK: The Crow Hill Company is proud to announce availability of VAULTS - RHYTHM MACHINE as its latest VI (Virtual Instrument) release ready for all to download and make music with for free for the rest of their lives — literally preserving Roland’s 1978-vintage CR-78 CompuRhythm’s classic character as the Japanese giant of electronic musical instrument manufacturing’s first programmable drum machine (that changed the way artists approached rhythm and, in doing so, stamped its musical mark on a number of notable hit records that subsequently secured its iconic status in the annals of music technology history for all eternity), effectively expanding its sonic potential with some tasteful effects as a result — as of October 1…
Far from stretching the boundaries of truth, it is fair to say that the introduction of Roland’s CR-78 CompuRhythm changed the course of history as the first computer-controlled programmable drum machine. Most rhythm machines before its late-1978 introduction were preset-only affairs, forcing their users to pick from the likes of ‘Bossa Nova’, ‘Rock’, and ‘Waltz’ — more in keeping with the home organ-orientated terminology of the time. The CR-78, however, offered something new — namely, an ability to program rhythm patterns and store them in memory using the external WS-1 programmer optionally offered by Roland. Indeed, its 14 onboard instruments include bass drum, cymbals, hi-hats, rimshot, snare drum, and tambourine alongside several Latin-type sounds, such as bongos, claves, and cowbell — all generated using analogue circuits, giving it a distinctly warm, punchy character. Thanks to the CR-78’s analogue nature, though, the tempo control is not exactly surgical, but this foible only adds to its charm. And, as history has borne out, when placed in the creative musical hands of Blondie, Phil Collins, Peter Gabriel, and others, it became an iconic instrument in its own right.
Check with dealers on the right on availability and price.
Press release follows:
"Gamechanger Audio Officially Releases the MOTOR Pedal
Electromechanical sound. A gas pedal for your guitar. The ultimate analog noise-machine.
Riga, Latvia – September 29, 2025
After years of development and anticipation, Gamechanger Audio is proud to announce that the MOTOR Pedal is finally available to the public. First teased as a wild experiment back in 2019 and reintroduced earlier this spring as a pre-order, the MOTOR Pedal is now shipping worldwide—bringing a completely new category in sound and performance machines to guitarists, producers, and sonic explorers everywhere.
At its core, the MOTOR Pedal is built on two groundbreaking technical achievements: A fully controllable musical motor oscillator that transforms brushless DC motors into living, breathing sound sources. An proprietary monophonic pitch-tracking engine that follows guitars and virtually any instrument with surgical accuracy. These breakthroughs were forged over years of experimentation. From 2019 to 2022, Gamechanger Audio developed and released the MOTOR Synth MKI and MKII—the world’s first polyphonic synthesizers to use electric motors as vari-speed oscillators. More recently, the company perfected pitch tracking with its acclaimed AUTO Series pedals, released late 2024 The MOTOR Pedal builds directly on these innovations, fusing them into a compact stompbox—creating a powerful, unpredictable, and endlessly fun performance tool.
And in true Gamechanger style, it’s not just about the sound. The MOTOR Pedal introduces a completely new way to control it: a real acceleration foot pedal. This gas-pedal-style controller turns dynamics, pitch bends, and rhythmic sweeps into something you literally drive, delivering an adrenaline-fueled approach to expression that no other stompbox offers.
“Back in 2019, the original MOTOR Pedal was just a spark that set this whole journey in motion - what if we could play MOTORS as Oscillators!?” says Gamechanger Audio founder Ilya Krumins. “Since then, through the MOTOR Synth MKI and MKII and the AUTO Series, we’ve gone deeper and deeper into the world of electromechanical sound. At this point, we feel like we know pretty much everything there is to know about making music with motors and the MOTOR Pedal is the culmination of that knowledge, and the most fun, immediate and accessible way to experience it.”
Key Features: ● Real electromagnetic motor oscillator driven by precision pitch tracking ● Gas-pedal controller with five modes - for dynamic, physical expression ● Hybrid electromechanical + digital signal path for unique textures - five MOTOR engines - each with unique sound ● Compact form factor built for pedalboards, studios, and live rigs ● Replaceable motor block for extended lifetime and serviceability ● Powered by Gamechanger Audio’s MOTOR Synth (MKI & MKII) and AUTO Series technology
The MOTOR Pedal is now shipping worldwide from www.gamechangeraudio.com and with selected dealers world-wide. The MOTOR Pedal is priced at 399 USD and 399 EUR (incl. VAT) respectively. For more details, demos, and ordering information, visit www.gamechangeraudio.com."
"In this video we’ll break down how common types of modulation for sound synthesis work, how to make the most of them creatively and musically. We’ll do so while demoing the new Triple Mod DIY module from Thonk. Whether it’s creating multi-phonic layered patches needed multiple envelopes, understanding how a Turing Machine works and performing with it, understanding and making Sample & Hold melodic, creating chain reactions with EOC ‘end of cycle’ triggers … there’s lots in this video applicable to LOTS of other modules."
"The Oberheim DMX is a classic digital drum machine introduced in 1981 by Oberheim Electronics. It became one of the most iconic drum machines of the early 1980s, particularly influential in hip-hop, electro, and pop music
🔧 Key Features:
12-bit digital samples: The DMX used actual sampled drum sounds stored in EPROM chips, giving it a realistic, punchy character that distinguished it from analog drum machines like the Roland TR-808. Sounds: It included individual samples for kick, snare, hi-hats, toms, cymbals, claps, cowbell, etc. The samples could be swapped out using different EPROMs. 8-voice polyphony: You could play up to 8 drum sounds at once. Individual outputs: Each drum sound had its own output jack, allowing for separate processing and mixing. Swing and quantization: The DMX had adjustable swing, making its grooves feel more human. Tight MIDI sync and clocking: It could sync with other gear via MIDI (on later models), DIN sync, or analog clock pulses. Sequencing: Patterns and songs could be programmed in step or real-time mode, with memory for multiple patterns and songs.
🎧 Sound Character: Punchy and dry, with a distinctive ’80s sheen. The snare and clap are especially famous—used heavily in early rap and electro. It had a more realistic, “studio drummer” feel than analog machines, making it ideal for producers aiming for a more polished sound
This unit has a toggle and button on top and button which we are not sure of the function. Never used it."
"We are delighted to introduce Tonverk. A machine primed for adventure. An instrument to propel you towards extraordinary music-making and boundless sound exploration. It is packed with 16 varied tracks full of polyphony, multisampled instruments, auto sampling, never-ending routing possibilities, a mass of FX options to play with (including plenty of newcomers), deep modulation, an extended 256-step sequencer, and lots more fun features to get stuck into. All in one special box."
I first learned about Roger a few years ago while making a film called “The History of Sampling in Music” [below]. While I didn’t know anything about Roger at the time, I was astounded to learn that he had created both the LinnDrum and the MPC, which shaped the punchy robotic drums of 80s pop music and the grungy experimental grooves of 90s hip-hop respectively. I did a quick bit of research about him for my video, but didn’t really dig much deeper than that… However, a few months ago I decided to rewatch my old project, which reignited my interest in Roger’s story and gave me the idea for this video.
Like my previous project, I’d initially planned to write a script and do a voice-over, but after discovering the assortment of recorded interviews that Roger has already appeared in, I realised that I could just chop them up and have Roger tell his own story. I thought 'hey that sounds pretty cool, how hard could it be?'
Well, let’s just say I’m probably never going to do something like this again. I did enjoy making this and I am proud of it, but if I had just done a voice-over not only would it have been easier to make, but I also could’ve included a lot information without it feeling incredibly clunky. The initial cut was about 26 minutes, but I cut out loads of stuff for the sake of pacing and trying to stick to narrative beats. Roger is a fascinating guy with a lot of great anecdotes though, so if you enjoyed this video then I highly recommend you seek out some of the podcasts/interviews he’s done over the years.
I planned on making all the music for this film myself, but decided it would be better to use music that relates to Roger in some way (for example, he co-wrote 'Promises' by Eric Clapton and 'Quittin’ Time' by Mary Chapin Carpenter, and first used the LM-1 Drum Computer on the Leon Russell album 'Life & Love' which featured the track 'One More Love Song'.) I salvaged one of these demo tracks for the credits, but you can listen it and a few more scrapped tracks here:
Since you’ve read this far, here’s a few bonus Roger facts that got cut out of the video:
The LM-1 was featured on the best selling album of all time - 'Thriller' by Micheal Jackson, as well as other early 80s hits like 'Maneater' by Hall & Oates, 'Valerie' by Steve Winwood, and for some reason - the original 1983 Thomas the Tank Engine theme song.
Roger hired his friend, a professional session drummer called Art Wood, to record most of the sounds on the LM-1. They set up the kit in Roger’s closet, recording each of the drums one at a time… then called it a day. Given the popularity of the songs featuring these recordings - Art Wood is technically one of most prominently featured drummers of all time.
And here's two bonus facts about this video:
The title 'The King of Drum Machines' is a quote from the father of MIDI - Dave Smith, when he spoke about Roger and the Tempest drum machine (which they built together) on a Sweetwater panel in 2015. [below]
This video was released on Roger’s 70th birthday.
I hope you enjoy it!"
The History of Sampling in Music (2022)
"Join Mitch Gallagher as he moderates 'The Inventors of Synth' panel discussion at Gearfest '15. Featuring industry icons Dave Smith, Tom Oberheim, and Roger Linn discussing their thoughts on the past, present, and future of analog synthesizers and controllers.
Legendary synth designer and Grammy-winner Dave Smith was the founder of Sequential Circuits in the mid-'70s. His Prophet-5, the world's first fully programmable polyphonic synth, was the first musical instrument with an embedded microprocessor. Dave is also known as the driving force behind the development of the MIDI specification. He has continued to innovate, and recently unveiled his latest synth creation, the Sequential Prophet-6.
A pioneer of the synth and MIDI world, Tom Oberheim co-designed the Synthesizer Expansion Module (SEM), a device that allowed musicians to simultaneously combine live playing and sequenced playback - a concept that pre-dated the MIDI revolution. In 1981, he, along with Roland's Ikutaro Kakehashi and Sequential's Dave Smith, developed the MIDI spec, which changed the course of modern music. Tom recently re-released his famed Two Voice synth.
Technical Grammy award-winner Roger Linn invented the LM-1 Drum Computer (the first sample-based drum machine) in 1979. He later designed the Akai MPC60, which combined a sampling drum machine with a real-time MIDI sequencer. His guitar effects unit, AdrenaLinn, has been used on hit recordings by John Mayer and Red Hot Chili Peppers. In 2014 he released the LinnStrument, an expressive MIDI performance controller."
"Roger Linn is an innovative engineer, designer, and musician best known for creating the LinnDrum, one of the first drum machines to use digital samples of real drums. His groundbreaking instruments helped define the sound of 1980s pop, hip-hop, and R&B, and he later co-developed the Akai MPC series, a cornerstone of modern beat-making. Linn continues to push boundaries with expressive instruments like the LinnStrument.
In this video, Roger shares a story about meeting Bob Moog at NAMM.
Synthesizer pioneer Bob Moog passed away on August 21, 2005. Throughout the month of August, we will share an informal remembrance video series, Voices for Bob, featuring musicians, technologists, innovators, and colleagues as they remember and reflect on Bob's indelible legacy.
Help us carry Bob's legacy forward to inspire future generations through the intersection of science, music, history, and innovation. Support our work by doing one (or all) of the following:
Imagine a future where music isn’t something you listen to, but something you create—not with instruments, but with sound itself.
Not songs. Not tracks. But pure, raw, living sound.
This is the vision behind Quantum Cloud, a prototype sound installation and device. It’s not about listening to pre-made music. It’s about building your own sonic world—100% personalized, created in real-time, with machines and light.
Quantum Cloud: A New Kind of Sound Machine
Developed by Error Instruments, this is a highly experimental modular synthesizer—part sculpture, part sound lab. Built around four light-controlled oscillators, it responds to light and to itself. The oscillators can motivate, influence, and synchronize with each other. It includes a unique echo effect, adding depth and motion to your sonic exploration.
This is not just an instrument. It’s a sound experience. • Patchable and modular • Fully interactive • Designed to evolve and inspire • Meant for the curious, the creators, and the dreamers
Whether placed in your home as a sound sculpture or built at a DIY workshop, the idea is simple: sound becomes yours.
You don’t play music—you create your sound.
Affordable, Experimental, Accessible
We are developing a Do-It-Yourself kit for under €200. You can build it at home, or join a workshop and dive deep into experimental sound-making.
This is just the beginning.
If you’re interested in being part of this sound revolution, contact: 📧 studiopaultas@hotmail.com 🌐 www.errorinstruments.com"
"Join me for a rare opportunity to step into the incredible world of Hainbach at his studio in Berlin—filled with vintage nuclear test equipment he’s brilliantly turned into musical instruments… and plenty of other wild synthesizers!
Hainbach is known for making haunting, immersive soundscapes using everything from lab gear to tape loops to modular synths. His music feels like it's from another dimension—organic, rich, hypnotic and totally captivating.
In this video, I explore his unique setup and we dive into a completely new palette of sounds together. It was inspiring to see how he breathes life into machines that were never meant to make music… and to try my hand at making "nuclear music" myself.
If you're into experimental sound design, synths, or just curious how scientific gear from the Cold War can become part of modern composition—this is something you’ve got to see (and hear)."
