The Florian Schneider Collection to Be Auctioned at JULIEN*S November 19

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

via JULIEN*S

"THE FLORIAN SCHNEIDER COLLECTION

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

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Oberheim Matrix 12 Analog 12-Voice Synthesizer, with deluxe custom ATA flight case

Note: links to listings are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.
video upload by moogfoundation

via this Reverb listing

See if you can spot the Matrix-6 screen. I think that was accident. Capturing it for posterity. :)

"A towering icon of analog synthesis! Nicely restored, beautifully preserved, and built to tour or record for another lifetime.

This Oberheim Matrix-12 is in very good condition, has been restored by Rosensound, with some recent restorations performed by synth legend and former Oberheim engineer Marcus Ryle. It comes in a new, custom-built, heavy-duty flight case. It’s a US version, upgraded with a new control panel overlay from Sweet Discrete (UK) for a clean, sharp aesthetic. Everything functions beautifully; a truly top-shelf example of one of the most powerful analog polysynths ever built.

Cosmetic notes: the Sweet Discrete panel overlay LED registration is a bit off in a few places, so some LEDs look slightly off center (as shown in an included close-up image). Performance is not affected. The new overlay generally looks beautiful, but not strictly 10/10. There is also some stubborn tape residue on a few of the keys which can also be seen in the photos.

Details:

12 voices, each with 2 analog oscillators, multimode filter, and extensive routing
Legendary 96-point modulation matrix; no menus, just raw power
Velocity and pressure sensitivity, 5-stage envelopes, and complex LFOs
Massive analog presence with surgical control
US voltage model (no step-down needed)
New road-ready flight case included, $600+ value
Restored by Rosensound and Marcus Ryle, two of the most trusted names in analog synth servicing
New Sweet Discrete panel overlay from the UK; clean, legible, and sharp
Used by Hans Zimmer, Keith Emerson, Depeche Mode, Pet Shop Boys, and countless electronic pioneers, the Matrix-12 is the pinnacle of analog polyphonic design; often called “the last great analog monster.”

30% of this sale supports the Bob Moog Foundation, preserving the history of synthesis and inspiring future creators."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Yamaha Introduces New MODX M Series of Synthesizers

video uploads by Yamaha Synths Official

Playlist:

1. Yamaha | MODX M | Elevate Expression Everywhere - Official Overview
2. Yamaha | MODX M | Sound Demo - Hear the Future of Expression

"Discover the new Yamaha MODX M Series, a next-generation synthesizer that elevates sound, control, and creativity for musicians everywhere.

Building on the DNA of our flagship MONTAGE M, MODX M delivers expressive performance and a professional workflow in a compact, lightweight design. Built for stage, studio, and beyond.

🎹 Key Features:
• Three powerful engines: AN-X (vintage analog), FM-X (modern digital), AWM2 (realistic acoustic instruments)
• Motion Control Synthesis: Shape sound in real time with the Super Knob, Motion Sequences & Envelope Follower
• High-resolution control: Smooth faders, knobs, and key response for ultimate expression
• Expanded Softsynth Plugin (E.S.P.): A virtual version of MODX M for your DAW (available early 2026)
• Compact, portable design: Perfect for working musicians on the move

🎧 Designed to inspire, wherever your music takes you."


Yamaha MODX M Synthesizer w/ KRAFT Music
video uploads by Kraft Music

Playlist:

1. Yamaha MODX M Synthesizer - Advanced Tutorial with Blake Angelos

Great bundle deals on the Yamaha MODX M music synthesizer:
https://kraftmusic.com/collections/ya...

Blake Angelos from Yamaha visits Kraft Music to present the MODX M music synthesizer.

00:00 Into
00:44 The DNA of flagship Montage M
01:29 Display knobs
02:21 Keyboard hold
03:50 Control matrix
04:36 Page jump
06:05 Sound engine
06:28 CFX piano samples
08:06 Keyboard action
10:12 Scenes and orchestral voices
14:19 Super Knob
17:24 Organs and rotary speaker
21:31 Trailer Toys
22:20 Smart Morph
27:17 Motion sequence
32:37 Computer integration
33:54 ESP plug-in synth
38:54 Signing off

2. Yamaha MODX M Synthesizer - All Playing, No Talking with Blake Angelos

loopop Review: Yamaha MODX M vs MODX+: vs Montage M // Everything you need to know M6/M7/M8

video upload by loopop

"Yamaha has taken the brains in its flagship synth Montage M, and put it in a much less expensive package. Here are the details and comparison to MODX+ and Montage M

Get plenty of multi-samples for it, and my In-Complete Book of Electronic Music Ideas, Tips and Tricks ► Patreon: / loopop"

Here's a timeline of the video:

CLICK FOR MORE »

Intuitive Instruments Improves Exquis MPE Controller with Firmware 2.2.0 Update

video uploads by Intuitive Instruments



Exquis - Ableton Live integration (feat Primo Taut)

video upload by Intuitive Instruments

Press release follows:

Intuitive Instruments improves Exquis MPE controller with firmware 2.2.0 update alongside Ableton Live, Bitwig Studio, and Cockos Reaper workflow-merging scripts

SAINT-CYPRIEN, FRANCE: Intuitive Instruments is proud to announce improvements to the award-winning Exquis MPE (MIDI Polyphonic Expression) controller with major updates coming courtesy of introducing firmware 2.2.0 alongside software scripts to merge its workflow with Ableton Live, Bitwig Studio, and Cockos Reaper DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations) — wholeheartedly representing several simultaneous steps towards the inspirational solutions for music lovers creator’s goal of ultimately making music-making seamless by turning the flagship instrument itself into the ultimate lightweight and compact creative hub — as of September 8…

Exquis enables seamless and natural interaction with all DAW software, MIDI synthesizers, and modular systems by becoming a direct extension of its user’s creativity as an expressive and intuitive MPE controller comprising a hexagonal matrix of 61 backlit soft silicon keys arranged as consecutive notes (semitones) horizontally and harmonious notes (thirds) vertically — from the lowest at the bottom to the highest at the top — that provide independent gestural control over four different dimensions: velocity (strike force), horizontal tilt (X axis — pitch bend), vertical tilt (Y axis — CC#74), and pressure (Z axis — channel pressure or polyphonic aftertouch). Alongside a namesake companion app — itself optionally offering an experience akin to traditional composition software — available on macOS and Windows with support for VST, VST3, and AUv3 audio plug-in formats, Intuitive Instruments’ flagship instrument is intended to provide musicians of all levels with a fun and intuitive way of creating melodies and progressions, fully exploiting sonic potential in the process of doing so — whether working with third-party software over the USB (Type-C) connection, third-party software or hardware synthesizers through the MIDI IN and OUT (minijack) connections, and modular synthesizers via CV (control voltage) with dedicated 0-5V (minijack) connections for GATE (V-Trigger), PITCH (V/Oct), and MOD (pressure or velocity). These top out a lightweight (600g) and compact — 36 mm (H) x 146 mm (W) x 317 mm (D) — desktop design that also incorporates four rotary/push encoders and a six-zone capacitive touch slider, plus a series of selection, undo/redo, and action buttons, providing precise and intuitive control collectively over any user’s sound while enhancing interaction with the app.

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AKAI Introduces the MPC LIVE III

video uploads by Akai Professional

Note here are 24 vidoes in the playlist above. Use the player controls to skip around.

Check with dealers on the right for price and availability.

Review: MPC Live III vs Live II // What's in the Pro Pack? // Using MPCe & Matrix // Live 3 Tutorial

video upload by loopop

TIMELINE:
0:00 Intro
1:20 vs Live II
2:00 MPCe pads
3:20 Articulations
4:10 Touch strip
5:05 Mic test
5:30 More power
7:00 New features
7:45 I/O
9:25 Content
9:55 Using MPCe
13:00 Drum seq
15:05 Note Seq
16:40 Step edit
17:35 Last step
18:00 Automation
18:35 Other modes
19:45 Macro buttons
22:00 Clip matrix
25:20 Rec to arrange
26:15 Live looping
27:10 Snapshots
28:50 Clip settings
30:35 Sequences
31:00 Super stretch
31:50 New stems
32:30 New FX
33:20 Env follower
34:00 CV tools
35:10 MPC Desktop
35:30 Pros & cons




KEY FEATURES

[NEW] Expressive pads

16 MPCe pads with 3D-sensing technology for flexible music production and expressive performance

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Introducing the Sequential Fourm

video upload by Sequential

Update: the first user videos added below. Note: this post is pinned on top, see below for new posts going up throughout the day.]

"Fourm 4-voice analog synth with polyphonic aftertouch

Fourm is a compact analog synthesizer that invites you to play, shape, and perform with unprecedented expression. With its legendary Sequential tone, hands-on modulation, and uniquely responsive Tactive™ keybed, Fourm is a creative partner helping to bring your musical ideas to life.

Synth sounds and drums exclusively by Fourm. Composed by Peter Dyer."

https://sequential.com

See the dealers on the right of the site for availabily.

User videos:



Playlist:

1. The new Sequential Fourm in 60 seconds! #analogsynth #synth - Available at Signal Sounds
2. Sequential FOURM -- J3PO demo & overview
3. Sequential Fourm Analog Synth INHALT Demo & Discussion
4. Sequential FOURM Review — Classic synth sounds in a small package! - BoBeats
5. Introducing the Sequential Fourm Synth | First Look & Demo - Gear4music Synths & Tech
6. Sequential Fourm: Poly aftertouch, stacked waves, expressive arps – First look and sound demo - MusicRadar Tech
7. Sequential Fourm Performances & Overview - Sweetwater Soundcheck
8. SEQUENTIAL FOURM: the synth we’ve ALL been waiting for? - Projet Home Studio

Press release and pics follow:


Sequential Introduces Fourm: A Four-Voice Analog Synth with Polyphonic Aftertouch

A New Fourm of Expression

San Francisco, CA — September 23, 2025 — Sequential has announced the release of its most affordable, synthesizer to date. Fourm is a compact, 100% analog instrument that redefines expressive electronic performance. With its warm, organic tone, hands-on modulation routing, and a uniquely responsive polyphonic aftertouch keyboard, Fourm is ready to bring your musical ideas to life.

At its core, Fourm delivers four analog voices of genuine Sequential sound, derived from the legendary Prophet-5 — complete with dual oscillators, a classic 4-pole lowpass filter, and envelope curves modeled after the 1978 original. The result is unmistakable Sequential warmth and punch, now with overdriven feedback for a performance-ready edge.

For the first time in 40 years, Sequential has returned to polyphonic aftertouch. The team developed the new Tactive™ slim-keys poly AT keybed to work in concert with Fourm’s analog synthesis engine. Every element was co-designed and precisely calibrated to unlock new levels of expression, enabling a deeper connection to our signature sound that no off-the-shelf keybed could deliver. The result is a more expressive bond between player and instrument, energizing new modes of creativity.

“Wowww holy smokes: this thing sounds and feels amazing,” said Bryn Bliska, (keyboards for Chappell Roan, Maggie Rogers, Jacob Collier). “The polyphonic aftertouch is seriously so fun… Sequential nailed it.”

“We’re so excited to bring this innovative all-analog keyboard into the world,” said David Gibbons, Sequential CEO. “At a price-point that most people expect to pay for a monophonic synth, we think this product will invite legions of musicians who have longed for the magic of polyphonic analog sounds to start their journey of discovery with Sequential.”

Notably inspired by the Pro~One, Fourm’s top-panel modulation matrix puts deep sound design at your fingertips—no menu diving required. Modulation sources and destinations are clearly labeled, connections are made with a button press, and color-coded indicators make even complex routings easy to manage.

With its compact footprint, professional-grade build, and a sound engine rooted in Sequential’s most iconic instruments, Fourm is a powerful new voice in analog synthesis.

About Sequential
Sequential has been at the forefront of synthesizer innovation since 1974, creating instruments that inspire musicians and shape the sound of modern music. With a legacy built on the iconic Prophet synthesizers, Sequential continues to push the boundaries of sound design with cutting-edge technology and exceptional craftsmanship.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Rainy Day Electronic Instruments Introduces the Cumulus Loopsacaper

Cumulus + Piano video upload by otem rellik

"Cumulus is a versatile sample-based instrument that offers extensive ways to manipulate and play back samples across its four independent tracks. It also features a live mode for processing incoming audio and a large modulation matrix for deep sound design and creative exploration."



Unleash Your Creativity with the CUMULUS LOOPSCAPER!

The Cumulus Loopsacaper is a powerful sample-based instrument designed to transform and playback your audio with unparalleled flexibility. At its core, Cumulus consists of four independent tracks, each equipped with its own playhead, allowing for diverse and intricate manipulation of samples. Beyond sample playback, Cumulus also boasts a versatile live mode that processes incoming audio in real-time, functioning like a dynamic effect pedal.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Teaching Kids to ‘Think Like a Synth’

video upload by Anthony Marinelli Music

"What happens when you program an ARP 2600 with two curious kids? A whole lot of wild and fun sounds. In this video, Anthony shows his daughters how to “Think Like a Synth” by recreating everything from a roaring lion to a 727 jet taking off — plus rain forest, crickets, birds, fire truck sirens, and even a talking synth that says “Oh yeah!”. Many of these patches are available for you to create using the ARP 2600 patch book.

This isn't just about music — it’s about learning how to shape sound, think creatively, and have fun doing it! There’s plenty of laughter, hands-on excitement, curious faces, and “wait, what?!” moments.

If you’ve ever wondered what synthesis is all about, this video shows how anyone — even kids — can dive in — and Think Like a Synth."

"🎛️ Think Like a Synth Learn the exact method I've used for decades on hit records & films 👉 https://anthonymarinellimusic.com/pro..."

---
Crazy side note: when I (matrix) was in the 9th grade, I actually visted Anthony Marinelli's studio in the 80s on a mini field trip with a few studens in my Geometry class. Anthony sampled our voices and played them back on his Synclavier. Not long after, I bought my first synth, an Oberheim Matrix-6 in 1986. The matrix alias comes from the Matrix-6.

Sequential Introduces the Take 5 Desktop Module

video upload by Sequential

"Take Your Music to the Next Level

The Sequential Take 5 desktop module brings the legendary Prophet-5 sound to your mix, featuring the analog oscillators and filter that transformed electronic music. Compact and powerful, it fits seamlessly into any studio and is easy to transport for live performances. Modern effects and a powerful modulation matrix deliver sounds to transport you.

Soundtrack exclusively by Take 5. Yes, even the drums! Composed by Peter Dyer.

For more information on Take 5 visit Sequential at: https://sequential.com/hybrid-analog/..."

Sequential Take 5 Module Demo (no talking) - Presets for Ambient, Melodic Techno and Electronica

video upload by Limbic Bits

0:00 Pads
13:09 Bass
16:25 Leads and Arpeggios
20:57 Misc, SFX and Percussion

Sequential Take 5 Module Demo (no talking)

video upload by Bonedo Synthesizers

Hurray... Take 5 and TEO 5 Desktop Units

video upload by Starsky Carr

TEO 5 announced here

"The Take 5 and Teo-5 from Sequential and Oberheim make fantastic desktop units. They feel like they were made for this form factor - no compromises, simply great sounding synths in a high quality enclosure. The keyboard versions may have felt lacking in keys (even though they have a great keybed) - just a bit too short for some. I found it was quite handy having one that could fit on my rack! But with these the only decision you have to make is which one is best for you.

Luckily I'm here to confuse you further (they both sound great)! The decision will be whether you prefer the Oberheim or Sequential style of VCO programming, the filters, and the X-Mod/FM. And these just so happen to be the bits I look at in this :)"

0:00 Whoo Hoo!!
2:36 The Hardware
4:37 Quick Overview - What Are They?
6:58 Oscillators
10:20 Sync
12:31 Filters
21:08 X-Mod/FM



Press release follows:

Take Your Music to the Next Level with the Sequential Take 5 Desktop Module

San Francisco, CA – [July 1, 2025] – Sequential, a leading innovator in synthesizer technology, today announced the release of the Take 5 Desktop Module, bringing their legendary analog sound to a more compact and accessible form-factor.

Building on the success of the Take 5 keyboard, the desktop module offers the same powerful analog oscillators and filters that capture the iconic warmth and depth of the Prophet-5, enhanced with modern modulation and digital effects. The module delivers this sought-after sound in a space-saving design, perfect for studio setups and live performances where portability and efficiency are paramount.

"Ever since we launched the Take 5 keyboard, we’ve gotten repeated requests for a desktop module version, " says CEO David Gibbons. "And more recently, it seems that modules have really shot up in popularity. So, we're very excited to offer the Take 5 sound in a format that everyone seems to want."

The Take 5 Desktop Module provides the same hands-on, knob-based experience as its keyboard counterpart, allowing for intuitive sound design and real-time parameter adjustments. Users can delve deep into sound creation with controls that are simple and direct, making it fast and easy to polish your sound.

This synth fits perfectly in smaller studio or bedroom setups, and is easy to transport for live gigs, positioning The Take 5 desktop module to bring its signature Sequential sound to a wider audience than ever before. It's an instrument designed to make life easier and streamline the journey to making music and having fun.

The Take 5 desktop module is available now, with a US MAP price of $1,399.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Ancient Passage

video upload by davidryle

"This basis of this project was between the new Synthetic Sound Labs 1655 Geo-Gruvn euclidean sequencer and a few different Low Pass Filter modules. The new SSL 1015 LPG with the cadmium sulfide CdS element, the Mega Ohm Audio CdS VCF/A module and the Cyndustries Quad Low Pass Gates module. The Cyndustries module was enhanced by Phil from Mega Ohm Audio to be much more responsive. A big change and very useful.

The Geo-Gruvn module from SSL is an adaption of the Hagiwo board and was also enhanced to provide a more efficient response all the way to audio rate clocking.

The main orchestration automation module in this piece was with the synthesizers.com Q170 Midi Gates module. The use of eight channels of midi gate streams from Cubase were the way each section were enabled on and off. My hands-on modulation was simplified to allow me to change timbre, filter settings and delay rates with ease.

The center section featured the Dove Mu-Seq D900 sequencer for a pattern which began by me running the sequencer in reverse and recording the track to Cubase, then reversing it back into the mix. I started with the Woven Spirits (MI Plaits) at a higher octave and drew it down until it matched the timbre for the rest of the midsection.

The last part was the dual Matrix run into a pair of quantizer modules in which I timed the pitch voltage outputs with the Geo-Gruvn gate outs. These voices were the Dotcom Q206 and Q206A modules through the Frequency Central X Series Low Pass Filter and an Empress Reverb pedal.

Other delays included the Modcan 73B dual delay with loads of modulation, and the SSL 1310 Digital Delay.

The opening drone is a feedback from the TipTop Audio Z-DSP VC-Digital Signal Processor with the Halls of Valhalla chipset in Plate Reverb mode. This drone also arose in the center section.

A pair of frequency shifter modules (Encore Electronics and Behringer Bode Clone) were used for the Snare and Hi Hats enhancement. The kit drums were the LDB-2E Analog Drums from Delptronics and the TipTop SD808. They were sequenced from the Mutable Instruments Grids module and a pair of Turing Machines and an MI Marbles module."

Buchla - MEMS 264 Sequence Distribution For Quad

video upload by DARK SPARKLER

"The MEMS 264 quad sample and hold / polyphonic adaptor distributes a set of quantized notes randomly from the MARF to 4 oscillators. These oscillators are each hard panned to the 4 corners of the room through the 227e. The Nensen Electronics Programmable Pulse Matrix sends probability based pulses to the 264 and the 4 channels of the 281. 4 random voltages feed into the decay inputs on the 281 channels to vary the length of each percussive “hit.” A CV processor, mixed with random and a pulse output from the MARF brings in and out the 277 delay, that also has its delay time randomly bouncing between 2 different settings. The oscillator’s wave shapes are introduced half way through to give 2 saw waves and 2 square waves. Cross frequency modulation between the 4 oscillators randomly turn on and off later into the patch."

E-mu Drumulator 8 Kits + MIDI upgrade board

video upload by Harry Axten

https://hkadesign.org.uk/d8km.html



"ROM switcher boards and third-party sound ROMs are nothing new as far as the E-mu Drumulator is concerned – in fact both were available while the machine was current. JL Cooper Electronics and others made 3-kit boards, and Digidesign (who later became Avid) got their start producing alternative sound ROMs for the Drumulator under their original name of Digidrums. That said, while the various alternative ROM sets are easy to come by these days, ROM switcher boards are not, and without one it’s a total pain to keep swapping chips in and out as you have to take out 8 screws on the underneath of the thing, lift off the lid, swap 5 chips over and put it all back together again.

8 Kits

I wanted a modification very much in the same style as my TR-707 ROM expansion board, with a number of kits that you can instantly switch between. As with that project, this is done without the need for any additional switches and instead uses a microcontroller to snoop on the front panel switch matrix. Kits are selected by holding down one of the bottom row of buttons marked 1-8 and pressing the ENTER button. The selection is remembered when the Drumulator is powered off too.

The Drumulator’s sounds are stored across 4x 16kB ROM chips, although they form one continuous region of memory. Thanks to this, and due to the way that they’re selected, it’s really easy to replace all four with a single large capacity chip. The 512kB flash ROM that I used can hold 8 kits worth of sounds, which works out nicely as that’s the stock sounds plus 7 of the Digidrums kits, including the famous Rock Drums kit:

Stock kit
Digidrums Alternate Drum Set 1
Digidrums Electronic Drums 1
Digidrums Electronic Drums 2
Digidrums Rock Drums
Digidrums Jazz Drums
Digidrums Latin Percussion
Digidrums African + Misc Percussion
Because each kit also has a corresponding modified program ROM (as the length of sounds, locations in memory and channel assignments are all hard-coded into the Drumulator’s firmware); the D8KM board also has an EPROM which contains the relevant OS for all 8 kits, and is connected to the Drumulator’s OS ROM socket with a ribbon cable. Fortunately the Drumulator doesn’t care if the OS ROM changes while the machine is running as long as they’re all the same version, which they are – ‘P3.00’, the final version.

MIDI

I chose also to include MIDI functionality as part of the upgrade, as most Drumulators don’t have it. E-mu did offer a retrofit, which has been cloned over the years, but it’s very basic and only does MIDI notes. The D8KM board on the other hand also offers the ability to sync the sequencer to incoming MIDI clock. Just set the Drumulator to external clock and if MIDI clock is available, it will automatically override the external clock signal and will also start and stop playback. If MIDI clock is not available the Drumulator will use the external clock signal as normal, including for the tape loading functionality."

ALAN R. PEARLMAN FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES INAUGURAL CELEBRATION OF THE CENTENNIAL BIRTHDAY OF ARP SYNTHESIZER FOUNDER, ALAN R. PEARLMAN

Press release follows:

ALAN R. PEARLMAN FOUNDATION ANNOUNCES INAUGURAL CELEBRATION OF THE CENTENNIAL BIRTHDAY OF ARP SYNTHESIZER FOUNDER, ALAN R. PEARLMAN, JUNE 7 AT THE MUSEUM OF MUSIC TECHNOLOGY

Kingston, NY - May 20, 2025 - This year marks the 100th birthday of the late inventor of the ARP synthesizer, Alan R. Pearlman. In honor of his pioneering innovations in electronic music, the Alan R. Pearlman Foundation will launch ARP@100: A Centennial Celebration of Alan R. Pearlman’s Legacy with EMEAPP at the Museum of Music Technology. A gala event kicks off a year’s worth of commemorative ARP centennial activities and takes place at EMEAPP, located in Harleysville, Pennsylvania, from 7 -10 pm.

June 7th Centennial activities at the museum include:

A live interview with the ARP Foundation’s director, Dina Pearlman-Ifil

Video excerpts from musicians, former ARP employees, and filmmaker Alex Ball’s celebrated ARP films

Performances on vintage ARP instruments by music pioneer Don Slepian and modular synthesist Ombient

The ability to try out a variety of synths

EMEAPP will unveil, at its Museum of Music Technology, a haven of vintage ARP history in which visitors will encounter an epic collection of ARP synthesizers, including the majestic ARP 2500 and a rare, early ARP 2502 with a cherry drop matrix. The iconic ARP 2600 Blue Meanie will be proudly displayed alongside an array of other ARP classics: the versatile Quadra, the expressive Soloist series, multiple iterations of the legendary Odyssey, the innovative Avatar, the powerful Chroma, the punchy Axxe, the compact Little Brother, and even a remarkable 16-Voice Electronic Piano – many of which will be playable!

Countless composers, musicians, and filmmakers worldwide have incorporated the ARP 2500 and ARP 2600 into their work, including early adopters Pete Townsend (in the “Who’s Next” album) and Elton John (in “Funeral for a Friend”). Stevie Wonder, an early adopter of the 2600, had his control panels labeled in Braille. The ARP 2600 was also responsible for the voice of R2-D2 in Star Wars films, and the 2500 was used to communicate with aliens in Close Encounters of the Third Kind.

Alan R. Pearlman’s legacy as an engineer and inventor began at an early age. A fascination with sound occupied his interest, and he spent time as a child building amateur radios. In 1948, as a student at Worcester Polytechnic Institute, he wrote, “The electronic instrument’s value is chiefly as a novelty. With greater attention on the part of the engineer to the needs of the musician, the day may not be too remote when the electronic instrument may take its place as a versatile, powerful, and expressive instrument.”

Attendees may reserve a spot at this exclusive celebration and fundraising event with a tax-deductible donation of $150 per ticket. The contribution includes complimentary wine/beer/other beverages, a selection of snacks, and a swag bag. Parking is Free.

The Museum of Music Technology/EMEAPP is located at 45 Mainland Road, Harleysville, PA 19438, just a short drive from the PA Turnpike Lansdale exits."

Bad Gear - SERUM for OLD PEOPLE

video upload by AudioPilz

"Welcome to Bad Gear, the show about the world’s most-hated audio tools. In times like these when normal people try to steer clear of questionable spending habits, true synth nerds are still stockpiling esoteric Eurorack modules, vintage restoration projects and overpriced VST plugins in a box.

Speaking of which, today we are going to talk about the Waldorf Iridium range. While young producers with an actual history of releasing music are currently benchmarking a Serum 2 torrent, these futurist top shelf instruments based on German technology seem to be the last missing piece in every middle-aged synthesist collection before their careers are destined to take off.

Chapters:
00:00 Intro tune
01:03 Overview Waldorf Iridium Core
01:59 Iridium Core vs. Iridium Desktop vs. Iridium Keyboard
02:22 Wavetable Synth Engine
02:32 Virtual Analog Synth Engine
02:49 Particle ( Sampler , Granular Synth )
03:15 Resonator ( Physical Modeling Synth Engine )
03:26 Kernel ( FM , Modular )
04:05 Filters, Digiformer
04:43 FX Section
04:52 LFOs, Envelopes, Mod Matrix
05:20 Bitimbrality, Touch Screen, Buttons
05:53 Sequencers, Arpeggiator
06:05 Connectivity, Pricing
06:25 Hate Screen
06:51 Jam 1 ( Fast Techno )
07:43 Jam 2 ( Drum'n'Bass )
08:52 Finale ( Melodic Techno )
09:23 Verdict
10:34 Patreon Sound Design Shoutout"

Schober Organ Corporation Tunesmith

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

via this VEMIA listing

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VEMIA is Peter Forrest's auction house. He is the author of The A-Z of Analogue Synthesizer Books.

"SCHOBER TUNESMITH (new start price to allow bids from outside the seller's tax region) Very rare monophonic transistor synth, single oscillator, circa 1968, sold as a kit or pre-assembled. The voice switch activates different static filters, providing 6 markedly different tones from bright sawtooth to mellow triangle. This short video [posted here] of the same model clearly shows the sounds ---- I read that the keyboard is a Pratt-Reed that uses series resistance rather than a matrix. This model for auction has clear strong sound with almost no hum whatsoever. The main problem is the tuning is way off, and some notes glitch a little. Not difficult to repair, I would think. Also the vibrato is not working, probably just a bad resistor, should be easy to fix. Body is solid and in good condition for a 57-year old instrument, so it hasn't been knocked about. Keyboard and control panel are very clean, almost no scratches. Mainly home or studio use, probably. The three tools contained inside the lid are a complete mystery, which may be solved once you look inside the unit! While this is offered as a 'project' the encouraging thing is how bright and clear it sounds, and once tuning and vibrato are fixed, you have a very playable instrument similar to a Clavioline. It's a worthwhile project, I would say. Power is 105-120V 50/60 cycles, with a 2-pin US-style mains plug. I've given it a very low start price. SHIPPING: This Tunesmith is located in Japan, and weighs (packed) approximately 7kg. Discounted shipping to UK/Europe/USA will be £30 surface, £80 air. For other countries, please enquire."

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EMS Synthi AKS

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VEMIA is Peter Forrest's auction house. He is the author of The A-Z of Analogue Synthesizer Books.

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Mystery Vintage Matrix Pump, Tim Smith DIY & Vintage EML

Pictured are a few interesting items for sale from Mike Berman. You can find them here.

I asked him if it would be OK to capture the pictures here as I've never seen the "matrix pump" before. He gave me the all clear. Note this is the first post to feature one. This is a rare piece of synth history.

All Mike knows about it follows: "For me, the nature of the Matrix pump and its affiliation with EML is pure speculation. I always assumed it to be, at best, an unfinished one-off. If you magnify the photo you can read the labels on the controls and they are intriguing. The multi-pin socket on the left side of the MP accepts the same plug that EML sequencers use. That section is labeled 'Synto Interface'. I experimented with various patches and found some functionality in a few of the controls but I don't recall specifics beyond that. "

Below that you can see The Tim Smith box featuring the following section: Explonental Amp, Noise Generator, Lag Processor, and ENV/Gate Generator. I asked Mike is Tim Smith the same Tim Smith that was the Western Regional Tech Rep for Sequential Circuits , Arp, Moog and also contributed to the famous Vintage Synthesizers book and articles in Keyboard Magazine. He's not sure but believes it is.

Further below you'll find the MODEL EML-200, MANUAL CONTROLLER EML-300, multi-pin cables, EML 400 : EML 401, EML 500, EML POLY-BOX, X-Y CONTROLLER

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Analogue Solutions TC5000 Synthesizer: "Drenched Sweeper" Sequence No. 301

video upload by Analogue Solutions

"Here’s a new sequence, 'Drenched Sweeper' from the Analogue Solutions #TC5000 Patch Pin Matrix Synthesizer—recorded with no external instrumentation, FX, or processing.

With the TC5000’s vast sonic range, no single video can fully showcase its capabilities. We’ll share more sequences to highlight different aspects of its sound design potential.

About the Patch:

The TC5000's pin matrix provides extensive routing options, allowing for highly intricate and dynamic patches. A single pin can introduce subtle nuances or completely transform the sound.

In fact, the complexity of just one patch could warrant an entire essay!

This sequence features multiple waveforms from 3 oscillators, 2 filter types, Dual EG module 5012, Sequencer, and the Preset Voltage module 5052 (randomized with noise), along with the Mix-Sequencer module 5100 (providing the pulsating effect) -- this module is essentially two 4-input mixers. The channels, however, can be muted/switched on/off in the sequencer, in time to either an internal or external clock."

Original Sequential Circuits Prophet 10 (1016)

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VEMIA is Peter Forrest's auction house. He is the author of The A-Z of Analogue Synthesizer Books. Pic of the inside below.

"Vintage Sequential Circuits Prophet 10 Dual Manual Keyboard Synthesizer with Flight Case This Prophet 10 is in very good condition, and is fully functional, although the Braemer tape drive has not been tested. Has factory MIDI and sequencer, and the original blue Prophet-10 flight case on wheels. This may be one of the last Prophet-10s made, as the S/N is 0444. It's big and heavy!! Includes power cord, electronic copies of the operation manual and service information, and one original Sequential footswitch. The flight case foam is serviceable, but could use replacement. The synth is wrapped in plastic within the flight case. Full pictures are here [captured below]. By far the most prevalent of the original Prophet 10 models, the Prophet 10 Rev3 was a better built version than the previous 2 iterations for more consistent and reliable performance. It used Curtis Electronics Manufacturing chips, and featured 2 VCOs per voice, a low pass resonant filter with ADSR, LFO, & cv/gate controls. This rarely seen monster analog synth is by far one of the fattest and nicest vintage synthesizers.

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Technos Acxel Resynthesizer, HxC, AS SEEN

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VEMIA is Peter Forrest's auction house. He is the author of The A-Z of Analogue Synthesizer Books. "This potentially wonderful instrument is silent at the moment. We have had it here for two years or so, but time has run out and it needs to go to another person who can finish off the process of getting it 100% again. It had power supply and disk drive issues. We have replaced the disk drive with an HxC drive, which contains everything that was on the floppies. Most of the OS floppies seem to have been corrupt or non-functioning. There is more work that needs to be done to the power supply / supplies. Both supplies are switchable 110/240V. The gas struts which should support the Grapher at an angle have given up holding up anything, and need to be replaced.

Cosmetically there is one superficial scratch above the Grapher's LED matrix, and the Solitary case front is not in brilliant cosmetic order.

It is serial number 990-0004-151. As there were apparently less than 40 of these made, I'm not sure why it has a long serial number. It has its original manual, original floppy disks in a case, the stunningly solid (military-grade?) custom flightcase, and the redundant (faulty) disk drive.

We believe this version is a Studio System, with eight voices (all with individual outs) and including the all-important Acxelizer for control and creation of voices.

There is some good info online. For instance EMEAPP published this great rundown: https://emeapp.org/2019/11/19/the-technos-acxel-resynthesizer/"

See this post for demos from the creator of the Acxel Resynthesizer. Also see the Technos label for additional posts including demos.

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