Amiteque AR-110 Analog Drum Synth

video upload by Molten Music Technology

"Sound demo of the Amiteque AR-110 in a sort of song context... well it's one pattern going round and round that I fiddle with a little bit. The important thing is whether the drums sound any good to you."

Amiteque AR-110 Analog Drum Synthesizer Review

video upload by Molten Music Technology

video uploads by Amiteque Electronics

The AR-110 is a compact analog drum synthesizer with classic Roland-like sounds, separate outputs, and volume controls for each instrument. Its ease of use and affordability make it a great addition to both amateur and professional studios.

Compact & Affordable
Ideal for low-budget studios while providing high-quality sound for professionals.

5 Separate Outputs
Process each instrument separately on an external console or record individually.

Adjustable Levels
Fine-tune single instrument volumes and master output for perfect balance.

True 6-Note Polyphony
Bass drum, snare drum, hi-hats, cymbals, and claps—play them all at once.

Power & MIDI Indicators
Visual feedback ensures easy monitoring of power and MIDI activity.

Plug & Play
No complex settings—just connect and start playing instantly.

Technical Specifications
Sound Engine
Bass and Snare
Self Oscillating Circuit
HH, Cymbal and Claps
QR Noise Generator
Contour Envelope
5x VCA
Polyphony
6 Voices
Connectivity and Control
Audio Outputs
6x 1/8” Jack, 2 Vpp max
Level Control
5x Individual and Main
MIDI IN
DIN 5 pin, Channel #10
Power
9~12 VDC, Center (+)

Currently seeking funding on Kickstarter.

Enjoy Electronics - Reminder

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

via this Reverb listing

Additional NOISEBUG Listings

"Enjoy Electronics - Reminder Power Delay

Dual Stereo/Quadraphonic Effect Multi-Processor - Echo/Delay/Loop, Dual Multi-Mode Filter Bank, Reverb & LFO

- Comprehensive, all-in one solution far intricate rhythms Echo space and width

- Direct and immediate access to all parameters with dedicated knobs

- True-stereo indipendent delay allowing you to create complex rhythmic patterns

- Reverbs with Size and Resonance HiPass filter - knobs

- Double Pulse Delay

- Double Resonant filter that can be morphed from low pass to high pass

- 4 Waveform Sync-able LFO

- A full, four-channel (quadraphonic) system reproducing the Left Front, Left Back, Right Front, and Right Back audio signals in each of four separate speaker

- Mixer stage for DRY, WET and DPD

- Assignable Foot Switch

- Tap Tempo

- Intuitive OLED Display

- USB or 5-pin MIDI interface IN, OUT and THRU

- Supreme Audio Quality - 24 bit Audio Converter

- Powered by USB (included)"

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New Eurorack Modules Coming From Doepfer

Doepfer will be showcasing the above new modules at SUPERBOOTH25. Details on each follow.
Check with dealers on the right for upcoming availability.

Module A-119-2 is kind of a dual version of module A-119 without envelope follower. Instead two amplifiers are available and the module width is 4 HP only.

The module contains two amplifiers with separately adjustable amplification levels. Each channel is equipped with an overload display. The module can be used also for stereo signals, e.g. the stereo output of a smartphone.

Controls and displays:

Level 1/2: manual control of the amplification in the range 0 - about 45.

Overload 1/2: overload LED, begins to light up for output levels beyond about 10Vpp (+/-5V)

In 1: audio input 1 (monophonic or stereophonic, see technical details)

In 2: audio input 2 (monophonic)

Out 1/2: audio output (monophonic)

Technical details:

for higher amplifications the two amplifiers can be daisy-chained

normalling options: the signal applied to socket In 1 can be normalled to socket In 2 in different ways by means of a jumper on the pc board:

socket In 1 is connected via a mono patch cable (standard patch cable) to a monophonic signal and this signal is normalled to socket In 2 (i.e. the same input signal for both sub-units): jumper on pin header JP2 in upper position

socket In 1 is connected via a 3.5 mm stereo TRS cable to a stereophonic signal and the second channel of the stereo signal is normalled to socket In 2: jumper on pin header JP2 in lower position

no normalling: jumper is removed from pin header JP2

all inputs and outputs are DC coupled. Thus the module can be used also for the amplifications of control voltages.

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Anvil UNIQUE 80sPercussion Synth NW

via this VEMIA listing

Click the auction link on top when you get there for additional listings.

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

Pics of the inside below.

"The rarest drum machine in the world – the Anvil Percussion Synthesiser prototype. As featured in a major (four-page!) Electronics & Music Maker article in the magazine’s June 1985 edition. The Anvil prototype drum machine was intended to offer user-sampling and programmable rhythm sequencing as well as a drum synthesizer section that could be triggered by pads. However the project was perhaps too ambitious and the development money ran out in mid-October 1985 before it could be completed, leaving the Anvil residing in its flight-case in a London basement for 33 years before being tracked down. The Anvil prototype is not currently functional. A final update provided by engineer Roy Gwinn indicated the top board (control panel etc.) had been operational for a year (to October 1985) and was reasonably reliable. The bottom board (sample/synth) software had been able to sample into memory, replay from memory and save/load to floppy disk. The synth section was seemingly nowhere near completion, and some software had not yet been written. This was late-1985, and the Anvil has probably not worked since then. The Anvil has been powered up recently but the 40-character display was non-functioning. The 3.5 inch disk drive appears to be non-functioning. There are various builds of software/firmware on 12 EPROMs, some of which are populated on the two boards (PR for top board, BB for bottom board), along with two BIOS EPROMs. One early build EPROM (BB) has had a pin repair, and the other has a missing pin altogether. Some EPROMs have been confirmed as having data on them, and two have been copied in a limited (unsuccessful) attempt to get some life out of the Anvil’s top board. The internal battery has recently been removed from the unit. The auction includes the Anvil, the now-external/separate XLR-XLR input 240V mains power supply (with original UK plug), original Bulldog flight-case, the EPROMs, the schematics it came with (which in some cases differ from the current internal layout), a faded computer printout of the menu commands and final summary of work outstanding (16/OCT/85), and a unique (copy 1 of 1) professionally printed Preliminary User Manual written by the current owner collating all the paperwork, user guide, scans of schematics and his own personal full-colour photographs. CAUTION: PROTOTYPE – Should only be powered up by a suitably qualified electrical technician under close monitoring. The Anvil will require significant work to be restored. Weight: 22.3kg in flight-case. Dimensions 68cm wide by 43cm deep by 21cm high (in flight-case)."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Pin Electronics Portabella MKIII Modular Synthesizer

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

via this listing

Additional Retro Gear Shop Listings

"Pin Electronics Portabella MKIII Analog Modular Synthesizer. This is a great EMS Synthi A style recreation. Tested and fully functional. In near mint shape and includes power supply."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Machina Bristronica 2024

video uploads by sonicstate

Playlist:

1. Bristronica 24: MyVolts The Silent Alchemist Nears Shipping

We caught up with Caroline who gave us the latest update to the *Silent Alchemist*, a versatile power hub designed for musicians. Featuring five isolated USB-C outputs and a high-wattage sixth output capable of delivering 100 watts, the device can power a Mac with the remaining outputs providing 20 watts each. Its independent circuits ensure noise-free operation, catering to a variety of devices including the Dreadbox module and Sysmo slope generator.

The Silent Alchemist uses innovative step-up power tips to convert USB-C input to the correct voltage for various devices. There's also new feature: an uninterruptible power supply allowing seamless transition between wall and power bank sources. Also introduced were updated cables, such as silver candy cords and floating ring TRS to TS cables, expanding connection flexibility. The Silent Alchemist is expected to be available in December with a competitive pricing strategy.

More Info:
https://myvolts.com/

2. Bristronica 24: Circuit Happy ML2M Clock Sync module updates

At Bristronica 2024, we caught up with the creator of the *ML2M*, who introduced us to the latest version. The ML2M is a compact Eurorack module with Wi-Fi capabilities, allowing seamless synchronization with Ableton Live, Bitwig Studio, and iOS music apps using Ableton Link without the need for cables. It either connects to an existing network or creates its own, ensuring robust sync even in environments with unreliable Wi-Fi. The module, which retains its 2HP size, now features MIDI integration through TRS jacks. Users can access a web interface to configure each output for different clock divisions and reset triggers, making setup straightforward and flexible.

Alongside the ML2M, there's also the Missing Link Junior. This desktop version offers the same functionality but in a box format, complete with MIDI and CV clock outputs. Both products are now accessible, with a starting price of $250.

3. Bristronica 24: Archaea Exchange Patching Module

At Machina Bristronica 2024, we caught up with Arran from ‪@archaea_modular_synthesis‬ who presented the *Exchange Module*. This programmable patcher, a year in the making, evolved from its early prototype stage to a fully functional module. Arran explained how the Exchange can route synth voices via a beam controller and three exchange modules installed within the skiff, allowing for versatile patching. Operating like a matrix patchbay, it enables users to select inputs and outputs with the push of a button, create presets, and chain multiple modules for synchronized patching.

Communication between the modules occurs over the Eurorack power bus as well as over MIDI via the USB-C connection. The Exchange maintains analog integrity, ensuring there’s no conversion latency. The forthcoming release expected in late November 2024, includes a USB-driven editor for enhanced control capabilities.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Three Eurorack Systems: Custom All-Black, Intellijel, & Buchla Based System

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

Thress systems via these listings

1. Complete All-Black 3U Eurorack Modular Synthesizer System

2. Full Intellijel Eurorack Modular Synthesizer System

3. Buchla Music Easel Eurorack System in Handmade 7U Suitcase

CLICK FOR MORE »

20 pole Phaser by Jurgen Haible running 808 track

video upload by VanDaalElectronics

"This is a project built on Jurgen Haible 20 pole phaser board. Cases are custom made by us @Van Daal Electronics.

Assembled units can be purchased from: https://vandaal-electronics.com/

For DIY builds PCBs can be ordered from https://serge-modular.com/haible/tau_..."

Additional details:

Jürgen Haible's legendary redesign of the Tau 'The Pipe' Flanger - actually, a Phaser, using 20 (twenty!) all pass filter stages is back in a slightly modernized version, including some additions and modifications compared to the original Haible board:

Transistor arrays (for the 20 poles): pcb supports super-matched THAT300 (DIP) or BCM847DS (SMT).

Obsolete CA3046 in the 1/x function generator has been replaced by LM3046 (SMT).

MTA-156 power connector for +/-15V added - don't install the onboard-PSU parts if you use +/-15V!!!

MTA-156 power connector can also be used for 10 pin Euro power connectors - please note that +/-12V is experimental, not supported (yet), see below!

LFO: slow mode option has been added (simply connect L* to UP2 or DOWN1 via SPDT switch).
Optional CV mixer/processor has been added (untested!).

Connectors have been moved to the edge of the board to allow connecting component pcbs via pin headers - downside: space may be too tight to use normal headers. Workaround: use (breakable) precision sockets for manual wiring or testing.

pcb size: 6" x 3.4"

Pin Electronics Modular Introduces the PORTELLO - a Compact Portable SYNTHI Based System

via Pin Electronics

A compact portable matrix modular system based on Synthi 100, Putney and Portabella modules. The 8 modules will be connected via a 10×10 high quality Ghielmetti pin matrix similar to the Portabella.

MODULES & SPECIFICATIONS

OSCILLATOR 100

Frequency Range: 1-10 Khz

Waveform 1: Square & Pulse shape variable via pot and matrix. Waveform 2: Sawtooth & Triangle shape variable via pot only.

OSC Sync via Trapezoid or external source.

FILTER / OSCILLATOR P1969

A multi-purpose filter & sine oscillator

Range: 8Hz – 18KHz

Modifications: slew / unslew switch

18dB / 24dB switch (latest circuit design!)

ENVELOPE GENERATOR

Attack: 2ms – 1 sec

On time 0 – 2.5 sec

Decay: 2.7ms – 15 sec

Repeat/Off: 10ms – 7sec. (max. rate 60Hz)

Trigger: +4V

Modifications: attack/decay time extension, inverter pot

SPRING REVERB

Decay time: 1.75 – 3.0 sec.

Springs: 3

Voltage control of mix “wet/dry” via matrix.

INPUT AMPS CH. 1 & 2

Inputs for audio or CV (Ch.1 1V/oct. pre-calibrated)

ENVELOPE FOLLOWER

external input socket

SLEW LIMITER

ext. input socket

OUTPUT AMPLIFIER

with Filter.

GHIELMETTI MATRIX 10×10

including 10 white 2K7 pins

OUTPUTS

1 x Mono sockets

1 x Scope out

INPUTS & CONTROLS

1 x CV/ via CH1 pre-calib.1V/oct.

1 x Audio Input

1 x Gate socket

1 x OSC Sync Input

1 x Envelope Follower Input

1 x Slew Limiter Input

EXT. POWER SUPPLY

18 V/DC 1670 mA 30W 90-240V

DIMENSIONS

37x27x12cm (closed)

WEIGHT

2.8 Kg

Roland G-505 Guitar Synthesizer Controller, GR-300 Polyphonic Guitar Synth

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


via this listing

"Up for sale, a 1980s Roland G-505 Guitar Synthesizer Controller and GR-300 Polyphonic Guitar Synthesizer [SN 090427] in 100% original condition and in perfect working order, complete with the original 24-pin cable. First introduced in 1980 as a follow-up to the GR-500, the GR-300 is perhaps best known for its usage by Pat Metheny; produced at the venerable Fujigen factory in Japan, this versatile guitar synth can deliver a huge range of decidedly unique sounds, with a hexaphonic fuzz circuit, VCO synth, and combinations of the two. This GR-300 comes complete with the G-505 Guitar Controller, taking its design cues from a Strat with a sleek ash body, one-piece maple neck, and a trio of single coil pickups alongside the synth pickup.

The G-505 Guitar Controller guitar has plenty of natural sparkle and shimmer, and the Roland PU-134S pickups deliver a bevy of Strat-style tonalities via the five-way selector switch. Weighing 8lbs 12oz, the G-505 has been professionally setup here at Mike & Mike’s Guitar Bar with 10-46 strings, low action, and spot-on intonation.

The maple neck has a slender C-shaped profile carve with good shoulders, gaining appreciably more heft and roundness in the upper registers, measuring .810” deep at the 1st fret and 1.015” at the 12th. The fretboard exhibits light finger wear through the gloss, and the slender fretwire ostensibly benefits from a level and crown in this guitar’s lifetime, showing virtually no wear. This Roland plays cleanly up the 25 1/2“ scale with a straight neck and a responsive, optimally-adjusted truss rod, and the nut measures 1.650” (42mm) in width. The headstock features a bullet truss rod nut and gold “GR” logo, and the Gotoh tuning machines function reliably. The back of the headstock retains the silver foil serialized sticker.

The electronics on the guitar controller are untouched, with a control scheme including Master Volume, Guitar Tone, Guitar/EG Balance (Blend), VCF Cutoff Frequency, VCR Resonance, and LFO (Vibrato) Depth knobs. Additionally, the three-position Mode toggle enables on-the-fly switches between Hexaphonic Fuzz only (Mode 1), Fuzz and VCO synth tandem (Mode 2) and Synth only (mode 3). The controls are capped by the original sextet of knobs with ridged grips for easy adjustments, and the three-ply white pickguard rounds out the plastics.

Cosmetic wear on the gloss Metallic Blue finish includes a number of nicks and dings on the body as a whole, most prominent along the lower bout perimeter, with some finish chipping adjacent to the output jacks, and some very subtle texturing in the finish on the top. The neck profile retains its smooth gloss, with a handful of shallow marks that have no impact on playability.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Roland GS-500 Synthesizer Guitar *AND* GR-500 Synth Module SN 661034

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

via this auction

"This joint venture instrument between Roland and Ibanez is paired with the Roland GR-500 module. It was used by a multitude of artists, ranging from Neal Schon of Journey to Jeff Baxter of the Doobie Brothers and was responsible for creating some of the wildest synth guitar sounds of the late 70s and 80s.

The guitar features a hexaphonic pickup that tracks the pitch of each individual string with high accuracy, as well as a traditional humbucker pickup for producing standard guitar tones. The signal is sent through the guitar’s 24 pin output to the synth module where it can be manipulated using a multitude of VCOs VCAs filters, and effects. One of the most unique elements of the guitar is the infinite sustainer system built into the guitar. Similar to how E-bow’s work, this instrument can keep the strings vibrating as long as the player wishes.

This guitar is in excellent condition. It has only a handful of small chips/dents on the top (pictured) and the fretwear is nonexistent. Its electronics have been cleaned, the fretboard conditioned, and setup to play well at low action. The GR-500 Module has been well cared for, and is in excellent shape. Bring your guitar music to the next level with the GS and GR 500s today!

| Serial - B781015 | Scale Length - 24-3/4” | Fretboard Radius - 12” | Nut Width - 1-11/16” | Bridge Spacing - 2“ | Neck Depth - .870-1.05 | Neck Profile - Medium C | Number of Frets - 22 | Weight - 11lbs 2oz | Country of Origin - Japan |"

CLICK FOR MORE »

Tycobrahe

video upload by Kory Westerhold

"Little improvised piece with the Portabella (from PIN Electronics) and the Minimoog…"

Roland GR-500 Guitar Synthesizer with GS-500 Guitar and 24 pin cable

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

via this auction

Two pics of the of the GR-500 inside below.

""Listed here is the flagship of the legendary pre-MIDI, all analog guitar synthesizer systems; The Roland GR-500 synth and GS-500 guitar.

This listing includes the Roland GS-500 guitar controller, The Roland GR-500 Synth module and a factory 24pin cable.

The GS-500 guitar is in Very Good condiction with all of it's original electronics, including the hexaphonic pickup, synth controls and 24pin connection to the GR-500 synth module. The gutiar hasn't been modified at all (as far as I can tell). The original pickups are intact as are the string isolators which are essential for the mulichannel infinate sustain system to fucntion. There are a few -very- small scrapes and dents as one might expect from a guitar from 1978... but overall it looks like this insturment wasn't used heavily and it looks great.

The GR-500 synth itself has recently been serviced (2023). It just got entirely re-capped (capacitors replaced)s, power supploy serviced, and several of the chips were changed from soldered to socketed.

Almost all of the features of the synth work well. The Guitar, PolyEnseamble and Bass sections work exactly as you'd expect them to. The PolyEnsemble and Bass sections are remarkably cool. Being able to play fully polyphonic chords on an anlog guitar synth is just a beautiful thing.

The Solo Melody section, however, is currently not functioning quite correctly. Right now the pitch of the Solo Melody section does not track the pitch of the guitar correctly, and the amplitude detection in this section doesn't seem to be tracking correclty either. I am not sure what the issue is, but two techs have suggested that this section may just need to be properly calibrated and the instructions for this procedure can be found in the service manual which is readily available. I regret not having the time in my life right now to address this issue as it may be quite minor, but I just can't say what this issue is for sure and I wanted to be totally up front that this issue exists.

So we have this remarkably, unique and rare set of GR-500 and GS-500 where the gutiar is in really nice shape, and the syth has recently been serviced and cleaned, but does have some issues with the Solo Melody section."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Exploring the Pin Electronics - Portabella MKIII

video upload by NOISEBUG

"One of the most capable/versatile synths of all time. The ultimate sound designer’s tool."

https://www.noisebug.net/

The Cloney Project EMS VCS3 Clone w/ Mods + Custom MIDI Box

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

via this auction

"For your consideration is this 100% faithfull VCS3 recreation that has been professionally built by RAMCUR who built The Hornet Modular with PIN Electronics from a few years ago. I also recently got it fully modded by Z3 Sound with a custom MIDI input box.

The main parts of this synth are from a kit from Germany's The Cloney Project. As you can see in the pictures, we upgraded a number of parts (solid shaft CTS pots all around being a significant upgrade to the feel and longevity) with premium parts as well as a number of period correct electronic parts where needed in the audio path. We also used the same spring reverb tank, meter and joystick pots that EMS used in their original design. Furthermore, the matrix is a custom Swiss made 16x16 Ghielmetti which is far superior than the the one that came with the kit. In fact, Ghielmetti make the best patch matrixes in the world. This synth sounds and feels amazing, it was built with no expenses spared.

Aside from the main build, here are the mods that were added:
1. Hi/lo Range Switchable on all OSC (3x switches, 2-pos)
2. OSC Variable Sync via pot on all (3x 10KL pots)
3. Voltage Controlled Shape on all OSC via patch points (3x jacks)
4. Voltage Controlled Filter Response (1x jack)
4. Filter slew / unslew (1x switch, 2-pos)
5. Filter 24db / 30db (1x switch, 2-pos)
6. Attack / Decay x10 (1x switch, 2-pos)
7. Trapezoid polarity switch (1x switch, 2-pos)
8. Variable Portamento (2x jacks + 10KL pot)
9. Custom MIDI / Eurorack Input Box (via Cinch Jones)
10. Sustained / Transient External Gate (via MIDI box)
11. Variable Portamento (via MIDI box)"

CLICK FOR MORE »

Pin Electronics - Portabella mkIII

video upload by NOISEBUG

"Pin Electronics Portabell mkiii DEMO @ Noisebug.

Currently available to rent in the Noisebug Magic Theatre Synth Studio.

Also available for sale at Noisebug.net and on NOISEBUG Reverb."

Transcendental Harmonics: A Duet of the Portabella and Subharmonicon

video upload by verstaerker

"a musical piece made for the PIN Electronics Portabella and the Moog Subharmonicon.
Graphics done in Blender.
______________________________________
to listen more music by me please visit
https://verstaerker.bandcamp.com
https://verstaerkerahead.bandcamp.com"

Synthfest UK 23 New Videos

video uploads by sonicstate

Playlist:

1. Synthfest UK 23: MyVolts - Nifty USB Power Solutions

At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with Caroline from MyVolts, and they've added to their panoply of useful power solutions for musicians. MyVolts showcased their new product, the Alchemist power distribution hub, which harnesses the versatility of USB-C to deliver various voltages from 5V to 20V. This means you can power a range of equipment, from vintage synths to modern gear, with one device. They've also taken their USB power innovation to the next level with a step-up 12V power tip, allowing users to draw 18W from USB to power gear like the Electron Analog Four on the go. MyVolts aims to simplify power management for musicians, addressing issues like earthing and noise, and they're actively seeking input from the community to fine-tune their solutions.

In addition to the Alchemist power hub, MyVolts will be releasing their own power banks, USB-C power cables with wattage indicators, and a range of power tips compatible with various voltages. This expansion means users can power a wide range of devices efficiently and conveniently. These products are expected to be available around February or March. MyVolts encourages you to fill out their survey to help them better understand and solve the unique power challenges musicians face.

https://myvolts.co.uk/

2. Synthfest UK 23: Rides In The Storm - SED CSM Synth Voice

At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with Uwe from Rides In The Storm to get a glimpse of their upcoming modular synth voice module, the SED CSM. This module is a powerhouse of sound design possibilities, offering a wide range of features packed into a single unit. With two oscillator sections, three waveform options, pulse width modulation, and a wave folder, there's plenty of sonic flexibility on tap.

The SED CSM also includes a robust mixer section, a ring modulator, wave folder, noise source, and an external input, expanding its sound-shaping capabilities. Uwe demonstrated how the module can be used for lush soundscapes and dynamic modulation with its various features. SED CSM offers envelope generators with loopable modes and versatile LFOs and filter options.

SED CSM Price: around £390

3. Synthfest UK 23: Analogue Solutions - Ample Desktop Pin matrix

We returned to the Analogue Solutions booth to chat again with Tom who showed us the second synth he’s released this year, Ample. Ample is a 3 VCO synth which combines some of the greatest bits of other Analogue Solutions synths, including a patch pin matrix similar to the Vostok, a sequencer taken from the generator, an interval generator similar to that on the Fusebox, and a 24dB filter akin to that of the Pro One. It even has the same delay circuit from the new Maximus.

There are 3 types of pin for the pin matrix with resistances of 0 ohms on the black pin 10k ohms on the red one and blue giving a value of 100k, which allows for more flexibility in attenuating the signals you patch. Tom told us that Ample is particularly suited to percussion, with its snappy filter, and various clock sources available, and though Ample is in a desktop format, Tom has given us plenty of space between the controls so no accidental knob bumping can occur.

Available October 23

Ample Price: around £2000 plus vat

4. Synthfest UK 23: Expert Sleepers - Analogue Modules

At Synthfest UK 2023, we had the chance to chat with Os from Expert Sleepers, known for their versatile digital modules. However, Os has been exploring the analog side of modular synthesis and has introduced a range of eight analog modules.

Among the analog modules, Os showcased a squelchy filter, oscillators with unconventional sine wave cores, and an intriguing octave fuzz effect. He emphasized that these analog modules offer a different approach to sound generation and signal processing compared to their digital counterparts. Os also pointed out that once an analog module is designed and built, it's a finished product, offering a sense of completeness that's distinct from the continuous updates often associated with digital modules.

Expert Sleepers Analogue modules Prices: from £159

5. Synthfest UK 23: Yamaha - DM3 - Super Compact Digital Mixer

At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with Chris from Yamaha to take a look at their latest offering, the DM3 digital mixer. This compact 16-input mixer packs some impressive features into a small footprint, making it suitable for a variety of applications. With a focus on pro audio and audio versatility, the DM3 boasts brand-new microphone preamps inspired by Yamaha's high-end CL and QL series, ensuring top-notch audio quality. Operating at 96 kHz, the DM3 offers pristine audio resolution. We have to admit, we're all Gassing for this one...

The DM3 boasts a touchscreen interface, complemented by touch-and-turn knobs for tactile control. This innovative combination allows users to efficiently navigate and control the mixer's parameters. The DM3 can also serve as an audio interface, providing 18 in and 18 out over USB, making it an excellent choice for recording and streaming applications. With a compact and portable design, this mixer is versatile enough for live gigs, corporate events, podcasting, and studio work.

DM3 Standard Model Price: Around £1,500

DM3 Dante-Enabled Price: Around £2,000

6. Synthfest UK 23: Tone Science - Triple Cross - Chance Delay

At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with Ian Boddy from DIN Records, known for his prolific work in the electronic music scene. While DIN Records is celebrating its 25th anniversary next year, Ian has expanded his creative endeavors with the release of two modules under the sub-label Tone Science in collaboration with AJH Synth. The Triple Cross module offers versatile signal manipulation capabilities, enabling crossfading, morphing, panning, with non-synchronous LFOs and DC-coupled outputs. The Chance Delay module introduces a unique concept of probability-driven gate delay. Musicians can control the likelihood of triggers passing through, allowing for rhythmically intricate and ever-changing sequences. These modules are designed to enhance the performative aspect of modular synthesis, providing musicians with dynamic tools for evolving soundscapes and rhythmic complexity.

Triple Cross Price: £260

Chance Delay Price: £175

7. Synthfest UK 23: 1010 Music - Bluebox Eurorack Edition

At Synthfest UK 2023, we had the opportunity to chat with Steve from 1010 Music about their latest creation, the Bluebox Eurorack Edition. This module was born out of customer demand, as users of the original Blue Box desktop unit clamored for a Eurorack-compatible version. The Bluebox Eurorack Edition packs all the power and versatility of the desktop version but with a few key differences. It offers mono inputs and outputs that can be combined into stereo, six CV inputs for mapping to various parameters, and two dedicated USB-C ports—one for MIDI and the other for USB audio. This means you can connect your Blue Box to a Mac, PC, or iPad, send and receive audio tracks, and still record all 12 tracks, plus a master track and two effects sends, separately on a micro SD card. An upcoming firmware update will also bring stereo audio in both directions to the Blue Box Desktop Edition, offering even more flexibility in routing and recording. With its compact 30 HP size and thoughtful design, the Bluebox Eurorack Edition also offers a clock output bridging the gap between hardware and software seamlessly.

Bluebox Eurorack Edition Price: $699

8. Synthfest UK 23: Nonlinear Labs - C15 - Software Updates

At Synthfest UK 2023, we had a conversation with Tim from Nonlinear Labs, the creators of the highly expressive C15 synthesizer. Tim shared some exciting updates that have recently been implemented with the inclusion of LFOs via looping envelopes providing musicians with more sonic versatility. The C15's unique concept, based on a two-operator FM synthesis engine, remains intact, but these new LFO capabilities expand its sonic palette. Tim also showcased the expanded key tracking options, which can stretch pitches to create unique tonal textures. Furthermore, he highlighted the new twin-engine feature, which allows for cascading delays and creating captivating stereo soundscapes. Tim also hinted at future developments that owners of this expressive synthesizer can look forward to.

C15 Black Price: 4,300 Euros (incl. VAT)

C15 Cherry Wood Price: 4,750 Euros (incl. VAT)

9. Synthfest UK 23: Kenton - LNDX Midi Line Driver

At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with John from Kenton Electronics to check out their latest offering, the LNDX Line Driver, a handy solution for extending MIDI signals over long distances. Designed to address the challenges of maintaining stable MIDI connections in large venues and studios, the Line Driver utilizes Cat5 cables to transmit MIDI signals up to an impressive 500 meters. It's an ideal tool for live gigs in massive stadiums or situations where the control center is far from the performance area. The Line Driver features LEDs to monitor both the incoming and outgoing MIDI signals, providing essential feedback for troubleshooting and ensuring signal integrity. This straightforward and robust solution adds reliability to any MIDI setup, whether it's in the music industry, broadcasting, or even unconventional applications like flight simulators. With its opto-isolation and straightforward connectivity, the Line Driver is set to become an essential tool for professionals seeking rock-solid MIDI signal transmission over long distances.

LNDR pair Price: £127.92

10. Synthfest UK 23: Sweet Discrete - Synth Panel Restoration

At Synthfest UK 2023, we had a chat with Craig from Sweet Discrete, a company specializing in unique synth restoration and custom creations. Craig showcased their latest endeavor, which goes beyond their well-known synth overlays. Sweet Discrete has taken on the ambitious task of restoring classic synths like the Jupiter 8 to their former glory. These aren't just simple restorations; they're meticulous, artisanal processes, involving lead loading to remove rust and imperfections, followed by precise silkscreening. What's more, Sweet Discrete manufactures exact replica shells for various synth models, offering three versions for the Jupiter 8 alone. They've even delved into MIDI mods for the Jupiter 8, bringing modern convenience to these vintage gems.

Beyond their cosmetic work, Sweet Discrete is exploring the possibility of delving into electronics and design for synthesizers. With a keen focus on quality and precision, they're making a name for themselves in the world of synth restoration and custom solutions. To learn more about their offerings and explore the range of products, visit their website

See the SYNTHFEST UK label for more coverage of this year's event.

Korg PS-3100 Polyphonic Synthesizer w/ Kenton MIDI CV

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"Major restoration + Kenton midi install for this PS-3100!As on almost 99% of the PS series synths, same problems after 45 years: edge connectors completely cracked, capacitors that leak and begin to deteriorate the adjacent copper tracks, potentiometers at the end of their life, intermittent jacks, defective dividers. ..Nothing very complicated in itself , but the simplicity of the electronics of the PS is counterbalanced by the physical aspect of the job (the cables of the front panels controls / connectors are often difficult to access when changing parts) and ultra repetitive maintenance (18 connectors w/22 pins that must be disconnected / rewired, 46 potentiometers, around thirty jacks with a common ground rail, 150 capacitors, the same copper tracks attacked by drips on all the filter / gate cards to be restored, 12 dividers to be changed. .) .. so it's far from easy work!


Work done :---------------

Change of all (18) 22-pin connectors with new identical ones manufactured in Japan

- Change of all electrolytic and tantalum capacitors

- Decontamination of areas / copper tracks attacked by capacitors leakages

- Change of all MM5824 dividers with new clones

- Change of all potentiometers with identical new parts

- Change of all the jacks with identical new parts ( MIJ)

- Installation of a mod to reduce background noise in headphone / line output

- Installation and wiring of a KENTON midi kit -Calibration"

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Pin Electronics & Ramcur - Hornet (EMS Synthi A Clone/Replica, no Portabella)

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"Amazing Synthi replica made by Pin Electronics & Ramcur, this is from one of the first series and it's totally handbuilt in Canada with the right specifics and components, many people say that it's a way better than the actual Portabella.

The unit is built inside an Explorer case so it's very easy to travel with."

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