SynthFest France 2026 was held April 17–19. You can find coverage via the SynthFest France label.
"► Thank You 101 Music | 3IS Education | A2D Sounds | ACE | Age Music Belgium | Akai Pro | Alex Nadzharov | Algae | Ambient Memory | Anasounds | Artists & Relationships | Arturia | ASM | Audeze | B4 Distribution | Baloran | Down the Patches | BEATSURFING | Benoit Widemann | BF Synth | BLEASS | Bitwig Studio | Bjooks | Bll Instruments | Charlotte Dubois | Calm | CIYLab | Heart of Sound | Collision Devices | CSFI | cyma form | DAWless Tools | Drift DJ | EmbodMe | Enjoy Electronics | Entropy & Sons | Eowave | Ewen d'Aviau | Euterpe | Expressive E | Erica Synth | FCPro Audio | France MAO | Frap Tools | Fred's Lab | Fulgur Synthesizer | Forge-TME | Glou-Glou | Haken Audio | Hainbach | Heritage Synthetizers | Hell Modular | HLABS | ITEMM | Ingmar Koch | JC Digital | Diary | Kaona | Kiviak Instruments | Kodamo | KORG | KA pro | KR magazine | L1V3 | Lagoon | The Voice Of The Luthier | Larix-Electro | Leaf Audio | Liquid Sky | Macbeth | MidiBen | Morphor | Musical Entropy | Mvk Synth | Nanopolis | North | Novation | NRSynth | Oberheim | Orbiton | Ohmforce | Paulee Alex Bow | PWM | ph-modular | Polytek | PPG | Pural Modular Synthesizer | Project Home Studio | Pylobolus | RBaudio | Ryme music | Travel Piano | Sequential | SACEM | SACEM University | Schneidersladen | Sonicware | Sp3ctra_ | SSL | Studiologic | Synclavier Music | Silence | SyntTesla | SynthAnatomy | SynthFood | SyntheGrall | SynthR | Synthstrom Audible | Teenage Engineering | Theater of the Fleuriaye | Thingstone | Theresyn | Things | Tom Geffray | Tony T-Steel | TouellSkouarn | UNAC | City of Carquefou | Vintage Synths & CO | Wee Noise Makers | Yamaha | Waldorf Music | Wavesequencer | Woodbrass | Usynth.
► Directed by Maxime Bichon, pictured by Maxime Bichon, Thibaut Charbonnier, with the participation of Gaspard Rouaud, Eva Buffa, Eva Bone Leloup, Penelope Galtier.
► Music ATOEM - Erase Mode, Deep Forest - Ghostly Disco, Dogs & Cables - Shallow Brains, Charlotte Dubois - The Electric Hands, Hainbach - Live from SynthFest 2026 - All rights reserved.
► Acknowledgments to Pierre-Jean Tardiveau / Syntesla and Hans Zimmer.
► Special thanks to all the benefactors, the technical team of the La Fleuriaye de Carquefou Convention Center and the visitors."
"Rare 1989 16-bit drum machine with a unique 25 point ROM modulation patch bay and 16 preset effects switches. These custom modifications allow for the processing of the onboard sounds and user programmed rhythms to an extreme extent with the generation of an immense range of warped and inspiring sound design possibilities. These include distortion, bit crushing, aliasing, cross modulation, delays, digital noise, tonal sounds, reversing, flams and more indefinable effects. The five included patch cables can also be stacked for even deeper processing. The unit functions as normal when the patch bay is not implemented. Includes original manual and power supply.
2x 16 backlit LCD display.
43 tuneable and reversible sounds.
99 pattern, 100 song memory.
MIDI in, out.
1/4" outputs.
Tempo and volume controls."
"Gear & Setup
Recreating Boards of Canada’s 'Under the Coke Sign' using the Sequential Prophet Rev2 and Elektron Analog Heat+FX. (Patches made from scratch)
Two custom patches on the Prophet: left hand for the bass line; right hand leverages the chord memory function: hold desired notes and hit unison to trigger full chords with a single finger.
Processing & Sound
The Analog Heat+FX provides warm saturation, EQ shaping, and the warble module, which introduces the characteristic background tape noise heard throughout."
"We say... A pre-owned Oberheim OB-X8 (Desktop) in very good condition. It comes with original packaging and power cable.
Manufacturer's description NEW functionality now available with OB-X8 OS v2.0 featuring:
Instant binaural mode pans individual voices hard left and right for true stereo operation Simultaneously selectable waveshapes for each oscillator extends timbral variety New 4-Pole low pass filter type with fuller bass at high resonance New VCO 1 and 2 level LFO modulation destinations for independent timbral mixing Arpeggiator clock sync now has selectable note division values for expanded rhythmic control Twice the Split and Double memory locations, including program storage directly in the new banks for 512 more stored sounds Separate MIDI channels for lower/upper split bi-timbral operation Poly chain for up to 32 voices with 4 connected instruments MPE for new levels of expressiveness
Iridium Desktop MK2 is a new generation of the highly acclaimed Iridium Desktop synthesizer introduced in 2020 by Waldorf Music, and since then used by countless artists and sound designers. After six years the time has come to advance the sonic success story even further.
Based on the legendary multi-engine design of the Quantum & Iridium product line, the MK2 innovates even further, thus fitting perfectly into Waldorf’s forward-looking synthesizer design philosophy.
The MK2 features a new and fresh design, and an improved CPU board with more RAM and flash storage allowing for more sample storage and opening a whole new world of synthesis capabilities.
Per-Note-Parameter-Locks
(ft. Aphex Twin)
Only on the MK2 you can enjoy a very special feature called Per-Note-Parameter-Locks which is the result of a collaboration with legendary Aphex Twin, a long-term Iridium Desktop user.
With this feature, each of the 128 notes can be assigned up to 16 individual parameter variations by simply holding a note and turning knobs. This system allows each note to have a different set of parameters. You can even change the synthesis mode of oscillators for each note or change effect parameters. It feels like adding a whole new dimension to your music. Per-Note-Parameter-Locks are saved with each patch and can be inspected and edited on a dedicated page.
Seeds – The Sixth Synthesis Sense
The added RAM further allows a new sixth synthesis method for each of the three oscillators. Inspired by wavetable synthesis, in which each wavetable represents a timbral journey, Waldorf has found a way to base these timbral journeys not only on static waveforms, but also to dynamically synthesize each waypoint from sub-oscillators we called “Seeds”. These can be controlled and recombined using techniques like ring modulation and frequency modulation, and enriched with noise and other non-pitched material. While we provide, similarly to wavetables, a set of predefined timbral journeys, you can also edit and create your own.
Protein’s “Flavour” Knob
The new knob called “Flavour” adds sonic liveliness using our new concept of micro-variations in timing, timbre, pitch, and a whole set of additional parameters we recently introduced with the Protein synthesizer.
More Memory, Layers & Sound
With the increased memory capacity, you can change the multi-timbral layer count from 2 to 4. In addition to layered and split modes, the new MK2 also features more advanced multi-timbral modes, such as round-robin and random-robin. These additions bring greater timbral richness and variety, letting you build deep and complex sonic landscapes. A dream come true for all sound designers, sonic explorers and cinematic artists!
Iridium & Quantum Update 4.0
A general update of the Iridium and Quantum operating system will be available soon.
Version 4.0 provides some of the new features for all existing Quantum and Iridium models like the Mutator patch randomizer introduced in the Microwave plugin, a new polyphonic arpeggiator, new microtonal features saved in patches and other features.
Connectivity Stereo Audio Out: 2x TS jacks Stereo Audio In: 2x TS jacks Headphones TRS output with level control DIN MIDI In, Out & Thru USB Type B (device) for MIDI connection to computer USB Type A (host) for storage media and MIDI devices MIDI 2.0 compatible MicroSD slot 4 high-resolution CV Inputs which can be used as modulation sources in the Mod-Matrix Analog clock In & Out with clock divider settings Analog gate and start inputs Kensington® compatible lock
Note there are two versions, a synth version and accordian: http://juzisound.com. The original was in a rectangular box format as seen in previous posts here. Spotted this newer model via the listing below.
Next generation of sampler device, again specialized for playing ethno music. If you play that kind of music, this device is really the right one for you!
Model 3 is successor of Sampler 2, but the technology is much more advanced. Sampler 3 have 8 independent Uppers (synth version), read samples from Micro SD card with maximum possible speed, have SD card auto refresh function, and have best in the world 32 bit DAC for perfect audio quality. The same hardware is used with 2 independent software versions: One for use with any Synth, and second for use with MIDI accordions.
For more information, see specification and comparison table between all samplers.
"everything is from the synth to the zoom recorder, twin t drums, xor snare, pt2399, and cmos stuff.
attiny85 reseting the phase of 40106 oscilators, the digital control accepts 1voct from keysetp and go to the 40106 inputs through resistors, a little rc for filtering the pwm, and for this reason when you change the oscillator frequency you can get intervals and crazy stuff. is not orthodox but suits my need for Rich timbres. the dco goes to 40106 buffers , and then 4040 dividers, twin t filters, one for each of the two voices, one goes to env, vca, filter, delay, and the other one to clock divider and filter, to get the sub osc.
firmware super simple only for checking the conversion from filtered frecuency of the attiny85 to my 40106 non exponencial vcos.
currently is tracking 10 octaves really good, the trick is put a voltage divider in the cv in of the attiny because keystep has 0 to 10v and the attiny accepts 0 to 5v tehn the tracking inside the attiny converts o.5v oct to 1 volt oct. i dont know anything about coding but i made it with chat gpt and my design .
source code will be in the coments ."
"Audio demo of my Synton Syrinx. This one has been serviced and the power input changed from 220 to 110V.
The Syrinx uses seven Curtis chips for its VCO's, VCF's and envelopes. It has two analog VCO's, a sub-oscillator and three flexible voltage-controlled filters. You can switch between the three filters for either a 24 dB lowpass, or two bandpass filters, and they can be patched in four different ways (series/parallel). Additionally the Syrinx has two LFO's, FM, PWM, osc-sync, 2 ADSR envelopes, ring modulation, portamento and a cool touch-pad that can control various parameters from pitch-bending to the LFO rate. The Syrinx's Mixer section lets you adjust levels for each VCO and the sub-osc as well as the Noise Generator and Ring Modulator. Unfortunately, being released around 1983, the Syrinx just missed out on MIDI and patch memory options.
Polyphony - Monophonic
Oscillators - 2 VCO's (tri, saw, square, PWM) plus 1 sub-oscillator, ring modulation and noise gen.
LFO - 2
Filter - 2 Bandpass filters (Peak 1 & 2) and 1 Lowpass 24dB/oct filter. Individual cutoff and resonance controls, ADSR Envelope, Keyboard Tracking and LFO modulation
VCA - 2 ADSR filters (one can modulate the VCF)
Keyboard - 44-keys (3 1/2-octave, no velocity, low-note priority)
Arpeggiator - None
Sequencer - None
Memory - None
Control - CV / Gate (Moog type). Touch 'N Bend Pad.
Date Produced - 1983/84"
"Feeling a bit of 80’s nostalgia ('Stranger Things' anyone?) I thought the time had finally come to try and give this classic electro-pop anthem the Circuit Tracks treatment. Released in 1984 (40+ years!) it’s too easy to forget how ground-breaking the song (and it’s subject) was in the political climate of the Eighties.
The song itself is a simple but almost perfect pop song. It was programmed on an MC-202 Microcomposer and is reputed to have started life as an electronic disco version of the Sex Pistol’s 'Pretty Vacant'!
Yamaha DX7 is used heavily on the track (notably the presets ‘Harp1’ and ‘Bass1’), and additional Sequential Pro-One, Memorymoog and Linn drums. I managed to simplify the arrangement to program everything and the vocals into a single Novation Circuit Tracks. Everything you hear is being played and recorded live from the Tracks.
I'm pleased at how close to the spirit of the original I managed to get this time. I hope you enjoy the track and it brings back some memories for you too."
"More details for synth nerds
BPM 135
I don’t own a DX7 (sadly!) but the closest thing I have is emulation. The repeated ‘Harp1’ DX7 line (and the ‘Marimba’ break) was sequenced on the Tracks MIDI 1 and sampled as 4-bar loops from the internal MicroDEXED emulator in an M-Vave SMK-37 Pro keyboard. Each sample was then triggered (like a drum sound) at the required point in the song using the Drum 3 track.
Disclaimer: This is an unofficial add-on to the M user manual, describing some of extra features added from firmware 1.05 up to firmware 1.11. This add-on also covers some complex aspects of the Multi Mode, which remains somewhat unusual.
Author: Vladi Salnikov aka VladiS.
Algorithms of FW version 1.11:
Varysaw: A VA oscillator ranging from SAW through PULSE to TRI.
Wave (red encoder): Mixes from 0 to 31 from SAW to PULSE; 32 is pure PULSE, and 33 to 63 mixesfrom PULSE to TRI.
Meta parameter: Pulse width for PULSE, adjustable from 5% to 95%.
CSAW: A famous Yamaha CS-80 saw oscillator with mutation towards a parabolic oscillator.
Wave : Controls the amplitude of the “step” component of the saw wave.
Meta parameter: Mixes between this saw wave and the parabolic saw wave.
Waveshpr: A SAW to TRI oscillator fed into a mild waveshaper.
Wave : 0 is pure SAW, 1-62 mixes between SAW and TRI, and 63 is pure TRI.
Meta parameter: Depth of the waveshaper.
TriplSaw: A stack of three SAW oscillators; two are detuned slightly higher and lower than the third.
Wave : Controls the amplitude of the “central” SAW oscillator relative to the two “side” SAWs.
Meta parameter: Detuning factor, from 0 to maximum detune.
S/T Fold: A SIN wave folding oscillator that folds the chosen crossmixed wave between SIN and TRI waves.
Wave : 0 is pure SIN, 1-62 mixes between SIN and TRI, and 63 is pure TRI.
Meta parameter: Folding depth.
FM 2 OP: Classic simple two-operator FM synthesis. OP1 (modulator) generates a sine wave that modulates the phase of OP2 (carrier). Both operators generate sinewaves; the algorithm's output is the carrier signal.
Wave: Maps values from 0 to 63 to harmonics ratios of 1 to 8 in stepped increments.
Meta parameter: Amount of phase modulation applied to the carrier.
"This Rhodes Chromas is in perfect working order, sounds absolutely great, and has been thoroughly updated & reconditioned:
• CC+ Kit Installed – The original CPU board has been removed and replaced with the fabulous CC+ kit. The Chroma CC+ Kit (CPU Plus) significantly upgrades the original Rhodes Chroma synthesizer by adding essential modern features like integrated MIDI, much more program storage (200 programs in 4 banks) instead of the original's limited space, better control over parameters, and expanded MIDI functionality. It essentially modernizes the vintage keyboard, making it fully controllable via MIDI and allowing for complex patch management. It also replaces the original battery-backed memory with non-volatile RAM, eliminating the need to replace the batteries, and removing the danger of battery acid damage.
• MIDI Adapter Included – The Chroma can now send and receive MIDI. With its wooden, velocity-sensitive keyboard, it becomes a fantastic MIDI controller.
• New Power Supply Installed – The original power supply included a large, heavy transformer, and generated a lot of heat. The new switching power supply, designed in Italy specifically for the Chroma, is energy-efficient, reliable, and regulated, ensuring that the Chroma will be stable and noise-free.
• Serviced – All voice cards have had new capacitors installed. All faulty 4000-series logic chips have been replaced, along with several faulty op-amps. Faulty traces and connectors have been replaced.
All voices pass auto-tune test and play perfectly. We’ve burned in the Chroma for 8+ hours and it works perfectly and stays in tune. All keys have been removed and cleaned, and the action feels great. All key contacts have been cleaned and work correctly, with good velocity response.
Cosmetically, the Chroma has some scratches and marks from its 40+ years of use, but overall it’s quite presentable as you can see in the photos.
The Chroma includes the original flight case – however, the foam has gone bad, and has been removed. The flight case would need to be re-foamed to be used to transport the instrument.
The Chroma is available for pickup in Las Vegas, Nevada. We can also personally deliver the Chroma to the Los Angeles, Phoenix, or St. George areas for $150.
The attached video demonstrates the Chroma playing three of the factory preset sounds.
I also have a video showing all 8 voice cards (16 oscillators, 16 filters, 16 VCAs) passing auto-tune without any errors that I can send upon request."
"Afternoon exploration session with 3 silver boxes, the Elektron Machinedrum handling the beat and the classic SID Station led by the Lightreft Monolit on the 2.0β firmware.
Machinedrum keeps things tight and mechanical while the SID Station focuses on texture. Bit-grit, noise edges, and shifting timbres.
Just experimenting, seeing how far the monolit can take Midi Automation over an IDM groove. #machinedrum #sidstation #idm"
####
The LightReft Monolit made its first appearance on the site earlier this month in another video by HANJŌ.
The following is a playlist featuring dditional demos, followed by some pics and details further below.
Playlist (in most recent order - video 7 is from one year ago):
1. Monolit Sequencer
2. Machinedrum + Monolit : Simple Setup
3. MONOLIT x DECKARD'S DREAM MK2
4. Monolit: Quick Tips for Hardware Users
In this video, we demonstrate how Monolit connects seamlessly with synths, grooveboxes, and samplers — no computer needed. No deep menus, no distractions — just a clean interface and immediate control.
We explore different scenarios where Monolit shines: real-time MIDI control, clock generation, note and CC mapping, automation, and even gamepad integration. Hand-built in Japan, Monolit is a minimal yet powerful tool for artists seeking intuitive, hands-on control.
5. Monolit Firmware 1.2.0: Unlocking New MIDI Control Features!
In this video, we dive into the new features introduced in Monolit firmware v1.2.0. From advanced MIDI routing to external slider control and dynamic button functions — Monolit just got a serious upgrade. We’re showcasing a dual-Monolit setup, where one unit controls the other, which is connected to an Elektron Monomachine.
6. Monolit × Octatrack — Live Performance Control Demo | LightReft
Welcome to the first tutorial on the MONOLIT device! In this 40+ minute video, you’ll get acquainted with the essential settings, programming, and MIDI control on MONOLIT, while exploring the device’s unique capabilities. This session covers the key aspects of working with MONOLIT, making it an ideal guide for musicians and producers who want to master its full potential.
Main topics covered: Initial setup and connecting MONOLIT Programming and MIDI control Using functions and operational modes
Dive into the world of sound with this introduction to MONOLIT! Tutorial by Tim Shatny.
"MONOLIT by Light Reft
A smart, modular MIDI computer built for live performance and smooth integration with any setup.
Monolit is not a controller you map once to forget.
It is a playable instrument - a physical interface that lets you shape sound through motion, record gestures as automation, and turn parameters into something alive.
Designed for those who don’t just adjust sound, but perform it.
WHY MONOLIT?
A motion driven MIDI instrument for live sound shaping, expressive sequencing, and gestural automation. 8 banks with 64 controls per preset Real-time MIDI automation and parameter morphing Seamless DAW + hardware integration USB, TRS-MIDI, external device support Customizable, minimal, and fast. MEET MONOLIT, YOUR NEW MULTIFUNCTIONAL MIDI COMPANION! MONOLIT by Light Reft is a cutting-edge, multifunctional MIDI-computer that transforms your music production experience. Designed for musicians who seek precision and flexibility, MONOLIT offers seamless integration with all DAWs and hardware devices, customizable presets, and an intuitive interface for effortless control and creativity. Whether you're diving into your DAW or jamming out with external hardware instruments, MONOLIT has you covered. An endless library of presets at your fingertips—each one offering 8 banks, with 8 sliders and 8 buttons per bank. That's a whole lot of control!
For each slider and button, we present a range of versatile options. You can record MIDI automation, set delay times for slider movements, send notes and LFOs, and adjust various parameters directly within the device. This flexibility ensures that you have complete control over every detail of your setup. But it doesn't stop there. MONOLIT is as versatile as you are, allowing you to connect other devices like Gamepads, Keyboards, Monome Grid , or any MIDI device you fancy. This means you can take command of your entire setup, all through one sleek, powerful interface. Whether you're crafting the perfect beat, tweaking synths, or anything in between, MONOLIT is the tool that brings your musical ideas to life with ease and style. Designed and assembled in Japan, MONOLIT is ready to be shipped worldwide.
Check with dealers on the right on availability and price.
Playlist:
1. Waldorf Protein Trailer
2. Waldorf Protein Sounddemo
3. Protein - Deep Dive - Tutorial with CTO Rolf Wöhrmann
User Videos:
Playlist:
1. New Wavetable Synth: WALDORF PROTEIN - Sound Demo (no talking) - Limbic Bits
2. Waldorf Protein Demo (no talking) - New Wavetable Synth from Waldorf! - Bonedo Synthesizers
3. Waldorf Protein - Sounds, walkthrough and sound design - Martin Stürtzer
Protein is an affordable and compact 8 voice polyphonic Wavetable synthesizer based on the original Microwave 1 ASIC oscillators combined with modern features of Iridium heritage like the sophisticated arpeggiator, step sequencer, chord mode, effects and more. Protein links back to the very beginnings of Waldorfs instrument makings but interprets the original ideas in a contemporary and surprising way.
With handy dimensions of 252 × 170 × 48 mm (including controls) and a weight of 0.9 kg, the Protein is a true powerhouse packed into a compact and portable new form factor that stands as the first statement of a new upcoming product line.
Specifications
Oscillators • Two oscillators based on unique Waldorf Microwave ASIC chip. • Internally running with 250 kHz sampling rate to match original ASIC sampling rate. • Modeling of digital-to-analog converters for each voice (DAC). • Unique digital noise generator based on ASIC technology.
Wavetables • All original wavetables of Microwave 1 based on the original coding and bit-identical to original. • Including algorithmic and speech wavetables. • Beautiful recreation of 8-bit quantization and aliasing. • Full waveform catalogue of original Microwave.
Filter • Faithful modeling of CEM analogue filters. • Adjustable de-calibration of cutoff and resonance to model detuned hardware. • Cutoff and resonance modulations. • Additional „Dirty“ types: Noise, crackle, click, geiger and bursts.
Modulation • 3 Envelopes • 2 LFOs with tempo sync and sample & hold • 8 slot modulation matrix • Poly-aftertouch capable • MPE modulation sources.
Performance features • Advanced Arpeggiator • Step-sequencer with up to 32 steps • Chord & Scale modes • MPE Compatible • MIDI CC Learn
Patches • Over 150 factory patches • Capacity of 250 patch memory slots • Category filter for patch list • Import- and export of patches via MIDI Sysex
Connections • Stereo Audio Out with 6.35 mm jacks with optional mono and TRS stereo connections • Headphones mini TRS output • DIN MIDI IN & Out, mini-TRS Type A (two adapters to DIN MIDI sockets included) • USB Type C for power supply and USB MIDI connection • Firmware updates via USB
Overall • Sturdy metal front plate on a colorful plastic case • Dimensions: 252 mm wide by 170 mm depth by 48 mm height (including controls) • Weight: 0.9 kg • Power Supply via USB (not in the box)
What’s In the Box? • Waldorf Protein Synthesizer • Two MIDI adapters: mini TRS to DIN sockets • USB C to C cable • Printed Quick Start Guide
A 4-minute modular improvisation exploring the interaction between The Tiptop Audio Buchla 245t and the 281t — where sequential voltage triggers envelopes, generating evolving polyrhythms and shifting patterns.
Recorded live, no overdubs, no post-processing.
Modules used:
• TipTop Audio Buchla 245t Sequential Voltage Source
• TipTop Audio Buchla 281t Quad Function Generator
• TipTop Audio Buchla 258t Dul Oscillator
Part of VoxModula Archives — a growing collection of modular sound fragments and explorations.
🎧 Best experienced on headphones.
2. Tiptop Buchla + Strymon El Capistan Live Modular Loop Performance / VoxModula #02
A live modular improvisation exploring the Strymon El Capistan as a looping delay.
The sound slowly folds into itself — echoes become layers, layers become memory.
Recorded in one take.
No editing, no overdubs.
3. Exploring FM Synthesis on Tiptop Buchla 258t + 259t | Live Patch Talk
In this video I explore FM synthesis on the Tiptop Buchla 258t and 259t, using the 245t sequencer to modulate pitch and rhythm, and the 266t for random voltages.
It’s a li
ve patch talk — I build the sound and explain what happens in real time, fit's my first video like, hopefully you will like it.
Let me know if you would be interested in more videos like this.
If you want the audio files and detailed photos of the patch please reach out and I can send them to you.
2. VoxModula Archives – The Beginning of an Archive
Hi, this is the first video of VoxModula Archives. VoxModula is an ongoing collection of sonic fragments — recordings where synthesis meets the quiet presence of the surrounding world.
Each piece is an observation of sound as a living material: unstable, imperfect, shaped by voltage and time.
The project does not aim to perform or entertain, but to document the space between intention and accident — where tone becomes memory, and noise becomes evidence of existence.
These works are presented without manipulation or spectacle, as if retrieved from an open archive of moments.
Auction to be held at Musician's Hall of Fame & Museum, Nashville, on November 19
An incredible collection of more than 450 artifacts from the life and career of Florian Schneider, co-founder of the pioneer electronic band Kraftwerk."
Pics and videos featuring some of the gear below, and his Lederhosen for good measure (thanks greg!).
Update: the post has been fully updated with all the synth related gear. This may just well be the longest post to be featured on the site. I wanted to capture all the pics for all of the details including notes, scuffs, and of course serial numbers. It's an interesting look into what he used, the condition he keped his gear, in some cases, how he actually used his gear. Note the phonetics on the keys of the Casio CZ-101 and DX-100. Note the Midi Switch Box with a built-in speaker? What's that about? Note the camouflage key strap on the Korg RK-100 Remote Keyboard. Did he pick it out himself or did the keytar just come with it? Note the repeat midi controllers and the MIDI saxaphones. Wind was his primary instrument. You'll find a ton of the acoustic gear he used in the other listings. This is a fascinating insight into both what and how he used his gear.
Side note: there is no affiliate compensation for this post. The note at the top automatically shows for all posts with the Auction label.
Rack Mount Sennheiser VSM-201 Vocoder
Starting Bid
$5,000
Estimate
$20,000 - $40,000 USD
A late 1970s Sennheiser VSM 201 Vocoder with no serial number from the personal studio and collection of Florian Schneider of Kraftwerk (see images). While it’s said that only a few dozen of these Vocoders were produced, a few examples made it into the hands of forward-thinking musical artists including Herbie Hancock, Daft Punk, and of course, Kraftwerk, who used a VSM-201 like this on their albums Man Machine (1978) and Computerworld (1981). The VSM-201 has an intelligible sound that has not yet been bested by modern gear. Includes power cable. This VSM-201 has been removed from its wooden enclosure (which bears the serial number plate) and modified with a metal rack mount casing, presumably for live use. Requires 240v, IEC power cable not included.
Dimensions: 19 x 9 x 9 inches
Category: Kraftwerk, Equipment
Provenance: PROVENANCE From the Estate of Florian Schneider
AMBIENT TEXTURES AND FIELD RECORDINGS IN SYMBIOSIS
Ambient Landscapes transforms your Novation Circuit Tracks into a powerful Ambient machine. A conceptual sound pack merging evocative synth patches with organic field recordings, designed to transport the listener into mental and physical landscapes — from frozen horizons and industrial echoes to bustling cities, flowing rivers, and vast mountain ranges.
Perfect for Ambient, Drone, Cinematic, IDM, experimental, Downtempo, and conceptual electronic explorations. An essential toolkit not only for musicians, but also for audiovisual creators, providing immersive atmospheres and authentic textures that enhance film scores, game audio, and multimedia productions.
Ambient Landscapes content: A complete conceptual toolkit merging Ambient sound design with organic field recordings, built to inspire deep Ambient explorations and evolving soundscapes on Novation Circuit Tracks.
128 Patches (64 new and original patches + 64 variations):
"A true piece of synthesizer history, the Moog Source (early 1980s) was Moog’s first synthesizer to feature programmable patch memory—a groundbreaking step that combined classic analog warmth with futuristic digital control. Revered for its lush, fat Moog tone and its pioneering optical alpha dial interface, the Source is both a collector’s dream and a player’s powerhouse.
This unit includes its original factory presets on cassette, the original owner’s manual, preset sheets, and the original schematic—a complete package that rarely surfaces.
Key Features:
Monophonic analog synthesizer with dual oscillators per voice 37-key keyboard (C–C) with octave shift & pitch/mod wheels Oscillators offer sawtooth, triangle, and square (with PWM) waveforms Oscillator sync + noise generator for deep sound design potential Classic 24dB Moog Ladder Filter with self-oscillation & keyboard tracking LFO with multiple waveforms routable to VCO or filter 16 patch memory slots + cassette storage for presets Innovative optical alpha dial with LED display—clean, modern interface design"
