Montage M8X FM-X walkthrough: Patch from scratch tutorial on Yamaha's latest FM synthesizer

video upload by Floyd Steinberg

"FM-X is the FM synthesis engine found in the Yamaha MODX and Montage Series. With 8 operators per voice and 128 voice polyphony, this is a very capable sound generator. In this video, I create a "Piano with pads and sparkles" sound, explaining which options do what in the process. This is not a complete overview, just the process of making one particular patch and explaining every step.
Table of contents:

00:00 introduction, overview and terminology
00:55 selecting the FM-X engine and opening the editor
01:24 selecting an algorithm
02:15 quick editor, and explaining the algorithm
02:46 operator envelopes
03:43 velocity sensitivity
04:05 setting up the first modulator: ratio, level, envelope and velocity
05:30 second carrier and modulator: tuning
07:22 building the pad: distorting the waveshape with the spectral option
08:14 skirt value (oscilloscope view)
09:00 tuning/detuning and browsing some more spectral options (including resonance)
10:17 adding another operator and modulator
11:15 putting it all together / fine adjustments
11:37 adding LFOs for pitch and amp modulation
14:03 adding a "sparkle" with modulator 3
16:46 filter type, LFOs and envelopes
18:29 FM color
19:16 effects: insert and global
20:24 physical controls (mod wheel and poly aftertouch)
21:33 the result - a new age pad with some alien weirdness
22:55 conclusion - do the youtube thing! :-)

HÄLP ZIS CHANNEL
https://www.patreon.com/floyd_steinberg
https://floydsteinberg.gumroad.com/
https://floydsteinberg.bandcamp.com/"

VOID9 MÕNAI

via VOID9

"MÕNAI is a standalone portable multitimbral synthesizer that goes wherever your creativity takes you. The integrated battery eliminates the need for power outlets, while the compact form factor fits comfortably in a backpack. Whether you’re sketching ideas on location or performing on stage, MÕNAI delivers comprehensive synthesis capabilities without compromise.

Planned beta version release: Summer 2026

Every control on MÕNAI is positioned for intuitive access. The 8 endless encoders provide tactile feedback without physical limits, letting you sweep through parameters naturally. Touch-sensitive strips respond to the subtlest gestures – the left strip dedicated to modulation, the right offering multi-touch control across 20cm of expressive surface. The 2-axis joystick adds another dimension of real-time control.

MÕNAI integrates seamlessly into existing setups. USB Host port accepts MIDI controllers, expanding your playing surface. Standard MIDI I/O connects to legacy gear. Four CV outputs – pitch, modulation, velocity, and gate – bridge the gap to modular systems. Line-level audio input lets you process external sources through MÕNAI’s effects. This isn’t an isolated instrument; it’s a hub that enhances your existing workflow.

A Tool for Sonic Exploration
MÕNAI encourages experimentation. The two built-in microphones capture audio for immediate processing or sampling. The pedal input adds hands-free control. The combination of traditional keyboard layout and function keys provides both familiar territory and new possibilities. This is an instrument that rewards curiosity – the more you explore, the more it reveals.

The CNC-machined aluminum enclosure isn’t just aesthetically refined – it’s engineered for durability. Sandblasted and anodized in matte black, the body resists wear while maintaining a professional appearance. The integrated battery means you’re not tethered to power outlets. Whether you’re sketching ideas on a train, performing in a park, or working in a studio without available outlets, MÕNAI adapts to your environment rather than constraining it.

The workflow is immediate. Controls are positioned for intuitive access, with visual feedback from 109 LEDs across the interface. The high-resolution display renders waveforms and parameters clearly. Multiple synthesis engines can run simultaneously, each with dedicated effects and modulation routing. Sequencers maintains precise timing whether you’re working with internal sounds or triggering external gear."

User Interface
52 keys
29 piano keyboard layout keys (2 octaves and 1/3)
23 function keys
8 endless potentiometers
2 touch-sensitive strips
Modulation (left, 8cm)
Multi-function (right, 20cm)
2-axis joystick for expression parameter control
6-axis motion sensor
Volume control knob with audio level indicator strip (stereo)
High-resolution 3.1″ LCD screen
Total of 109 LEDs: 88 RGB and 21 single-color LEDs
2 microphones for audio recording
1 USB port for battery charging and computer connection
1 USB Host port for device connection (e.g., MIDI keyboard)
Line-level audio input
2 x audio outputs
3.5mm TRS MIDI input and output
Pedal input
Sync out / in
CV outputs
CV Pitch
CV Modulation
CV Velocity
CV Gate
Dimensions: 36.5 x 12.3 x 18.7 cm

Meet Osmose 61

video upload by Expressive E

Check with dealers on the right for availability.

"🎹 Meet Osmose 61
The new 61-key version of the Osmose adds an extra octave for more freedom to explore, compose, and perform ✨. A fully expressive keybed lets you press, bend, glide, and shape sounds naturally, whether as a standalone synth or controller."

osmose 49/61 - the ultimate expressive synthesizer

video upload by Expressive E

"Discover Osmose, the new standard for musical expressivity — now available in 49 and 61 keys! 🎹
Experience a new level of musical freedom with intuitive gestures that let you press, bend, shake, strum, and shape sound like never before. Whether you’re a seasoned keyboardist, a workflow-driven producer, or a bold sound designer, Osmose will take your creativity to uncharted places.

Choose between the compact 49-key version or the extended 61-key model for more range and comfort. Both deliver the same unmatched expressive experience. 🤍

49/61-key gesture-sensitive keybed (semi-weighted)
Custom expressive sound engine (by Haken Audio)
More than 500 presets with custom macros
Built-in Effects: Reverb, Delay, Compressor/Drive/2 convolution engines, pre & post reverb/delay, EQ
External MIDI control w/classic & MPE keyboard configurations
Large color screen & ergonomic UI
Built-in MPE arpeggiator & innovative glide control
Custom sensitivity controls
Sleek & rugged design

Everything you need to know about Osmose: https://www.expressivee.com/2-osmose"

"Take your expression further than ever before with the Osmose 61, an expanded range version of Expressive E's advanced MPE keyboard synthesizer and controller. Adding another octave to Osmose, this 61-key version provides ample room for a wider range of melodic and harmonic playing, supporting two hand performance with plenty of room for dynamic performance across the Osmose's uniquely capable 3D keybed. Beyond this expanded range, the Osmose 61 delivers every innovation that made the original 49-key version a mainstay for musicians around the world. Deep control with MPE-enabled keys that add nuance to every touch, premium build quality, and the vastly powerful EaganMatrix synth engine are all at your fingertips, now with even more room to make your musical mark.

Now built in Expressive E's Polish manufacturing center, the Osmose 61 offers a premium standard for build quality, ensuring an uncompromising experience that's built to last. From rich and velvety acoustic tones to daring and dreamy synth patches, the EaganMatrix engine under the hood is your window to a world of captivating expression, now with an optimized interface for intuitive sound design and control. Physical modeling, FM, classic subtractive synthesis, and so much more are at the ready, bending deftly to every keypress, lateral wobble, and aftertouch press for a playing experience akin to the nuanced feel of acoustic instruments. Expressive E's mighty MPE control goes beyond even this core sound engine, readily expanding with Expressive E's software ecosystem of original and third-party developed sound libraries, proprietary instruments, and more. Whether you're using the Osmose 61 as a dedicated performance instrument or integrating its powerful expressive features into your DAW workflow, the Osmose never misses a beat to empower your creative vision.

If you're ready to dive into a lifetime of expressive control, the Osmose 61 is here to offer a dedicated platform for performance and control that's designed to grow with you. Twenty-four voices of polyphony, built-in effects, and 580 factory presets with 2048 slots for saving your own creations provide a deep well of musical possibilities to explore right out of the box, while the powerful engine, expanded software ecosystem, and premium build ensure a lifetime of sonic exploration. For MPE mastery without limits, look to the Osmose 61 from Expressive E.

OSMOSE 61 FEATURES

61-key MPE keyboard synthesizer and controller

3D keybed provides deep expressive control

Gestural controls include press, pitch bend, vibrato, aftertouch, pressure glide, and note off control

Expressive arpeggiator for nuanced sequence performance

EaganMatrix sound engine by Haken Audio enables vast sound design options with physical modeling, FM, subtractive, and more

24 voices of polyphony

Built-in effects processing

Intuitive interface with color LCD screen, 6 encoders, pitch and mod sliders, and octave & preset buttons

Expanded ecosystem of sounds and synths made specifically for Osmose by Expressive E and third-party partnerships for limitless sound exploration

MIDI input, output, and thru

USB type B connectivity for direct DAW control

2x continuous pedal inputs for sustain or parameter control

Balanced audio outputs for professional sound on stage and in the studio"

CLICK FOR MORE »

Elektron Machinedrum: Synthetic Percussion Sample Pack | Audio demo

video upload by A Force Truly Evil

"Available here: https://sci-fiaudio.com/?product=elek...

THE ELEKTRON MACHINEDRUM EXPERIENCE IN SAMPLE FORM: FROM IDM TO TECHNO

A vast collection of 987 kicks, snares, percussive elements, glitches, and synth sounds crafted from the Elektron Machinedrum. Inspired by IDM and avant-garde sound experimentation, this pack blends factory selections, TR-808/909-inspired kits, and deep explorations of the TRX, FM, PI, and E12 synthesis engines. Perfect for producers of IDM, techno, and forward-thinking electronic music.

This collection is a tribute to sound experimentation and the IDM / avant-garde electronic aesthetic, fully exploring the creative potential of the Elektron Machinedrum.

It’s divided into two main sections:

1️⃣ Kits Section – Includes a diverse range of IDM-style kits, factory kits, and TR-808/909-inspired sets, offering a balance between experimental rhythm design and classics. Inside you’ll find a massive range of kicks, snares, percussive hits, glitch elements and synhts, all processed with the Machinedrum’s distinctive digital character.

2️⃣ Synth Engines Section – Focuses on the instrument’s synthesis engines (TRX, FM, PI, and E12) to generate not only percussion but also synthesizer-style tones, textures, and FX. Each engine contributes its own flavor — from punchy analog-style hits and metallic FM tones to physical-modeled resonances and lo-fi 12-bit grit.

Altogether, this 987-sound library pushes the Machinedrum beyond its traditional role, becoming a source of innovative percussion and evolving sonic textures ideal for experimental, IDM, and modern electronic production.

All samples are provided in 44.1 kHz / 16-bit mono format, fully compatible with any DAW or sampler"

KORG Collection 6 - TRINITY: The 1995 Icon Reborn

video upload by Korg

CLICK FOR MORE »

Morphor ECHON 6 BBD Resonator Synth Now Open for Pre-Orders

Morphor's ECHON 6 pre-orders are now open at Perfect Circuit

Press release follows:

Morphor marks upcoming availability of ECHON 6 as world’s first polysynth based around analogue BBD resonators by announcing opening of pre-orders

GHENT, BELGIUM: having twice turned heads and opened ears thanks to show-stealing showcases at SUPERBOOTH25, May 8-10, FEZ-Berlin, Germany and Machina Bristronica 2025, September 27-28, Bristol, UK, Morphor marks upcoming availability of its eagerly-awaited ECHON 6 — being billed as the world’s first polyphonic synthesizer based around BBD (Bucket-Brigade Delay) resonators, building upon the Belgium-based collective of artists, engineers, and musicians with a passion for creative sound experience and radical acoustic ideas’ illustrious Eurorack expertise in that area as its inaugural standalone (rack-mountable) desktop design — by announcing the opening of pre-orders as of October 23…

As an ANALOGUE POLYPHONIC MULTI-TIMBRAL BBD SYNTHESIZER — helpfully highlighted by the on point wording worked tastefully into its fitting front panel design’s execution, ECHON 6 brings the principals of modal synthesis into the analogue domain. Far from reimagining a digital concept with modern analogue circuitry, it readily redefines how resonance and excitation can interact. And as the world’s first polyphonic synthesizer based around BBD resonators, no less, each of its six voices features a discrete BBD RESONATOR that tracks the keyboard, producing organic overtones and complex harmonic depth. Duly allowing its users to excite those resonators in creative ways, ECHON 6 can generate anything from plucked and bowed strings over leads and basses to big pads and evolving soundscapes. Combining comprehensive multi-timbral capabilities, a 9 x 32 modulation matrix, a full analogue signal path, and a one-knob-per-function approach, ECHON 6 ultimately unites experimental sound design with classic polyphony. Indeed, its architecture invites exploration at every stage of that analogue signal path.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Ambient Landscapes - Novation Circuit Tracks Sound Pack by A Frorce Truly Evil

video upload by A Force Truly Evil

"Available Here: https://sci-fiaudio.com/?product=ambi...

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):

CLICK FOR MORE »

Footwork Beat | Elektron Machinedrum

video upload by Akihiko Matsumoto

"MDJK808 Drumkit: https://akihikomatsumoto.sellfy.store...

Machinedrum Sample Pack
The Elektron Machinedrum, first introduced in the early 2000s, was not simply a drum machine. It was a digital architecture built to generate percussion with surgical precision and metallic sharpness. Its synthesis models produced results that went beyond drum programming, moving into the territory of sound design. Even today, no software plugin has managed to fully replicate its distinctive texture.
This collection captures that uniqueness. Every sample was recorded directly from the Machinedrum itself. No external processing, no layering. What you hear is the circuitry of early Elektron design, distilled into one-shots that highlight the instrument’s raw identity.

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 »

Introducing Ghosts by Kintone

video upload by Kinotone

"Ghosts is a 6-voice physical modeling effect and instrument."



via Kintone

Ghosts

$399

Chordal Resonator

Ghosts is a 6-voice physical modeling effect and instrument.

Excite high-fidelity strings, tubes, and bars to conjure resonant objects and acoustic environments: a blooming cello, a playful xylophone. From organic realism to spectral fantasy.

Retune the voices to preset chords — including custom chords and microtonal scales. Connect a MIDI keyboard for polyphonic play and the full spectrum of its synthesis engine.

CLICK FOR MORE »

KALEIDOSCOPE. Factory Presets Demo (No Talking)

video upload by Vadjuse

Also see KALEIDOSCOPE. Additive Parameters Page Explained, and additional posts here.

"Waiting List and Manual: http://vadjuse.ru/kaleidoscope_en

Kaleidoscope is a 4-track multitimbral synthesizer for creating generative music.
It supports additive, subtractive, physical modeling, and FM synthesis.
It has a built-in generative sequencer.
Tracks can be combined into polyphonic groups or joined into stacks.

Presets:
Intro
00:00 06042014
00:59 L1
01:40 SPACEHUNT
02:55 NEUROKICK
03:16 MOTOKICK

Basses
03:43 PWMDRON
04:49 ACIDRAVE2
05:21 SINEBURN
05:37 ASH

Leads
07:11 MELANHOLIA
08:08 ENERGYCORE
09:28 LOSTINSPAC
10:30 UNSTABLE
Arps
10:59 MARBLE
11:39 PONDFISH
12:20 SEMISIMMR
12:44 IAMWHOAMI
13:24 ORACLE
14:56 MOTOR

Physical Modeling
15:37 LAZERMERCY
16:52 ELECTROBOW
18:08 ELEPHANT
18:36 BUCKET
18:54 MEMBRANE

Perc
19:14 GLITCHx
19:53 NOISE
20:10 0b11001001
20:26 PUNCHFACE
20:51 MELOSNR
20:58 ROCKSNR
21:08 OLDBASTARD"

The Festival of Electronic Sound Returns to Brandon, Manitoba, Canada September 19–20

Press release follows:

The Festival of Electronic Sound Returns to Brandon

“Canada’s only festival focussed on the art and music of the modular synthesizer”

Brandon, Manitoba, Canada, September 8, 2025 — This September 19–20, electronic musicians of all styles—from classical to punk, and everything in between— will gather in Brandon Manitoba to share their art, music and technology over two jam-packed days of innovative performances, informative presentations and interactive activities at six free-to-attend, family friendly concerts and events spread across downtown Brandon and the BU campus.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Elektron Machinedrum IDM Beat

video upload by Akihiko Matsumoto

"Machinedrum Sample Pack
https://akihikomatsumoto.sellfy.store...
The Elektron Machinedrum, first introduced in the early 2000s, was not simply a drum machine. It was a digital architecture built to generate percussion with surgical precision and metallic sharpness. Its synthesis models produced results that went beyond drum programming, moving into the territory of sound design. Even today, no software plugin has managed to fully replicate its distinctive texture.
This collection captures that uniqueness. Every sample was recorded directly from the Machinedrum itself. No external processing, no layering. What you hear is the circuitry of early Elektron design, distilled into one-shots that highlight the instrument’s raw identity.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Spectravox and DFAM | Advanced Physical Modeling

video upload by Moog Music

"In this video we explore the principles of physical modeling synthesis using DFAM and Spectravox.

We begin with a summary of physical modeling synthesis. Physical modeling models an excitation signal (the isolated sound of a finger hitting a drum head, a pick plucking a guitar sting, a bow bowing a cello string) and a resonating body (a drum, a wooden block, a string coupled with a wooden body, etc.). Excitation signals are usually very short sounds full of harmonics and noise – we use DFAM to sculpt a broadband signal with lots of internal dynamics using DFAM’s three envelopes. Spectravox’s ten resonant filters with individual level control are then used to model a resonating body. DFAM’s velocity sequencer further allows us to create a sequence with harder or softer drum hits, while its pitch sequencer can move Spectravox’s filters via the SHIFT input for fascinating tonal changes."

Labyrinth and Subharmonicon | Tangled Transpositions

video upload by Moog Music

"In this video we tie Labyrinth and Subharmonicon’s sequencers together for tangled transpositional movement.

We begin by mixing the VCA outputs of each instrument using Labyrinth’s utility mixer. We then show how to quantize Subharmonicon’s two sequencers to generate sequences of octaves and then add those sequences to Labyrinth’s two sequencers to generate polyrhythmic octave transpositions. Labyrinth’s voice is sequenced by Labyrinth SEQ 1 and transposed by Subharmonicon SEQ 2 while Subharmonicon’s voice is sequenced by Labyrinth SEQ 2 and transposed by Subharmoncon SEQ 1. With Labyrinth’s quantizer set to Hirajoshi pentatonic scaling octave transpositions from Subharmonicon work well regardless of western tonality. Using more traditional western scales from Labyrinth we can set the steps of Subharmonicon to values other than octaves (e.g. perfect fourths/fifths) provided we stay in key."

Elektron Machinedrum 160 BPM Beat

video upload by Akihiko Matsumoto

"Machinedrum Sample Pack
https://akihikomatsumoto.sellfy.store...
The Elektron Machinedrum, first introduced in the early 2000s, was not simply a drum machine. It was a digital architecture built to generate percussion with surgical precision and metallic sharpness. Its synthesis models produced results that went beyond drum programming, moving into the territory of sound design. Even today, no software plugin has managed to fully replicate its distinctive texture.
This collection captures that uniqueness. Every sample was recorded directly from the Machinedrum itself. No external processing, no layering. What you hear is the circuitry of early Elektron design, distilled into one-shots that highlight the instrument’s raw identity.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Rob Papen WirePluck Introduction

video upload by Rob Papen

"New plugin synthesizer for PC and PC.
Please note that this product is part of the eXplorer-10 bundle!"

via Rob Papen

"WirePluck is a new synthesizer created in the tradition of the Rob Papen brand, which is known for thinking outside the box with innovative musical instruments. These are all possible now due to the amazing power of today's computers!

At the heart of WirePluck are the three layers made up from four selectable source synthesis types, which allow you to create new synthesizer pluck sounds! And nope... the focus is not in recreating real acoustic instruments, but creating new inspirational sounds!

The user interface has been laid out in the Main screen in a way that allows for fast editing using the most important parameters, selecting different ARP presets, and selecting the ‘Advance’ screen on which all available parameters can be tweaked.


The 1st source synthesis type for each layer is ‘Wire’, a newly developed sound source that sounds a bit like hitting a wire.

The 2nd source synthesis type available is ‘String’, which uses a custom Karplus physical modelling synthesis.

The 3rd source synthesis type is ‘FM’, which is a 3-Operator FM (phase modulation) synthesizer. A unique addition is that each Oscillator also has a Pitch Envelope Decay control, which is uncommon in classic FM synthesis, but great to add extra pluck to the sound.

The 4th source synthesis type is ‘Wave’, which is a 1 Oscillator subtractive synthesizer lineup featuring an array of various Filter types.

All of these different sources can be combined in the 3 layers of course and each layer has its output routing.

The included FX inside WirePluck are ‘Distortion’ with various types, ‘Modulation FX’ which are Chorus, Flanger and so on, a Stereo Delay, and our top-notch Reverb!

WirePluck also features a fully featured ARP, an extensive Chord Memory section, Modulation Matrix and of course our cool ‘Ribbon Controller’.

Last but not least, we have added a bank manager, including many great presets by Rob himself and other sound designers!"

Technics SX-WSA1 Synthesizer Owned by Oneohtrix Point Never?

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

via this Reverb listing

No mention in the listing whether he owned one in general or if this is his specific unit. Regardless the SX-WSA1 is interesting in that it employs physical modeling synthesis and that it's by Technics. You can find previous posts featuring the WSA1 including some demos here.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave TouchOSC Bidirectional Editor v5.0

Click the images for full size shots.

Details via synth_nyc:

"We can be grateful that Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave has a full MIDI SYSEX implementation and documentation: [Google doc link]

This is getting rare these days.

I was provided with 3rd Wave firmware v1.8gRC25 for testing purposes so that’s why you may notice some features in the editor, new compared to 1.8f (the current official release).

GENERIC FEATURES:

- Display parameter Name and Value
- Double click a slider or button to reset it to a default value
- MIDI data rate efficient: only sends a MIDI message if the parameter value is incremented or decremented by 1

SPECIFIC FEATURES (FW v1.8gRC25):
- 2 Editor Pages per 3rd Wave Multi parameters (total of eight Pages for the four 3rd Wave Parts)
- 1 Editor Page for 3rd Wave Single parameters
- 1 Editor Page for 3rd Wave Sequencer parameters
- All 1385 Program (All 4 Parts Multi + All Single + All Sequencer) parameters implemented in the editor. Program parameters are bidirectional using NRPN and SYSEX
- MIDI Channel selection slider
- Bank (change) + Program (change) selection slider + buttons
- Buffer Request, Buffer Init, Buffer Write and Program Write buttons using SYSEX

WORKFLOW 1 EDITING FROM PATCH (starting at 00:05 in the video above):
- Select a Bank & Program
- Press Buffer Request to load it to the editor
- Start editing (the loaded patch) on the editor (the Patch is edited in the synth buffer)
- Naming
- Press Buffer Request to record it in your DAW / SYSEX librarian; or save it manually in the synth
- Select a Bank & Program (Optional)
- Press Program Write to save it in the synth

WORKFLOW 2 EDITING FROM SCRATCH (starting at 02:20 in the video above):
- Press Buffer Init to send an init patch to the synth buffer
- Start editing (the init patch) on the editor (the Patch is edited in the synth buffer)
- Naming
- Select a Bank & Program (Optional)
- Press Program Write to save it to the synth

FEATURE REQUESTS / BUG FIXES:
- Go to the video Description on Vimeo
https://vimeo.com/1098612319

MOTIVATION:

- Consistent User Experience (no skeuomorphism): Color coding of synth blocks (VCO1 in blue, VCO2 in green, VCF in orange, etc..) which makes it extremely efficient and consistent across synths (rather than using different synth UI or dedicated editors).

- No 'Shift' Button: All parameters are laid out in one page if possible, on the editors.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Oberheim Introduces the TEO 5 Desktop Module

video upload by Oberheim Official

"The TEO-5 desktop module delivers the same signature sounds and synthesis features as its acclaimed keyboard counterpart. With genuine analog oscillators, the Oberheim SEM™ filter, and an intuitive knob-based interface, it fits seamlessly into your setup, offering powerful, hands-on control in an even more compact size.

Music by Peter Dyer
All sounds from TEO-5

Learn more at https://oberheim.com/products/teo-5/"


Press release follows:

Compact Creativity: Redefine Your Studio with the TEO-5 desktop

San Francisco, CA – [July 1, 2025] – Oberheim is proud to announce the release of the TEO-5 desktop module, a compact yet powerful addition to their venerated line of synthesizers. Designed for musicians and producers who want the iconic Oberheim sound in a space-saving format, the TEO-5 desktop module delivers all the same signature sounds and synthesis features as its sibling, the acclaimed TEO-5 keyboard.

TEO-5 boasts genuine analog oscillators and the legendary SEM™ multimode filter, allowing users to recreate the classic Oberheim sounds that have shaped decades of music. With extensive modulations, including linear, through-zero FM, and modern effects, the TEO-5 desktop module offers new sonic frontiers to explore.

The intuitive knob-based experience of its keyboard counterpart is also carried over into the TEO-5 desktop module. And all synthesis features are still easily accessible from the top panel, allowing users to make the real-time adjustments needed to fine-tune their sound with ease. This hands-on approach ensures that musicians can quickly dial in the perfect Oberheim tone for their music.

Ideal for synthesists with limited studio space, the TEO-5 desktop module provides all the exceptional presets and sonic control of the keyboard version in a footprint that's less than half the size. This compact design allows the TEO-5 desktop module to fit seamlessly into any creative workflow, making it a versatile addition to any setup.

“The meaning of the word ‘module’ has changed quite a bit since I first designed my Synthesizer Expansion Module or SEM back in 1974,” said Tom Oberheim. “But even back then, musicians appreciated getting tons of great sounds in a compact package. The TEO-5 keyboard has already gone farther and wider than SEM, and I’m excited to see this desktop module version introduce even more people to the magic.”

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

CLICK FOR MORE »

Introducing Sonicware LIVEN Evoke - A New Category of Ambient Music Box

video uploads by SONICWARE

"Following the success of Ambient Ø, we’re introducing ‘LIVEN Evoke’ — a new category of ambient music box that blends acoustic-inspired synthesis with hypnotic granular textures.

‘Evoke’ builds on the emotional soundscape tradition we pioneered, offering A creators a deeply expressive tool for composing cinematic ambient and post-classical music."

https://sonicware.jp/pages/liven-evoke

MSRP: US: $239 UK: £229 (incl. VAT) AU: AU$399 (incl. GST) CA: CA$329
First Batch: 100 units — Shipping Starts from June 30. Check with dealers on the right for availability.



Additional Details:

■ Nostalgia-Evoking Ambient Music Box
Timelessly interwoven with synthesized acoustic instruments and a hypnotic granular effect.

■ Acoustronic Flux Oscillator
New synth engine that turns acoustic-instrument essence into a unique 'acoustronic' sound.

■ Grain FX: Musical Granular Effect
Micro-grain slicing transforms phrases into musical glitches and evolving textures.

■ Dense & Multi-Dimensional Reverb
10 diverse reverbs—including the veiled ambience 'Mirage'—for deep atmospheres.

■ All-in-One 4-Track Sequencer
LIVEN’s signature 4 -track sequencer, known for recording performances and sound changes.

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