Xfer Serum 2: Dark Rhythmic Presets. Arps, Pads, Basses Demo

video upload by Anton Anru

"❄️ Alchemy Of Glacial Rhythms is a bank of 50 rhythmic presets for Xfer Serum 2, inspired by the north and its cold winters, which are accompanied by a special dark magic. The core idea of the bank was to create rhythmic, atmospheric, and "cold" sounds that evoke a certain magic. The result was brutal yet ethereal arps, growling basslines, magic pads, cold noisy synths, and mystical textures.

📦 Get these patches: https://antonanru.sellfy.store/p/seru...
The bank includes 50 Presets: 10 arps, 10 basses, 10 pads, 10 synths, 10 textures.
👤 The author of the soundset is skendi (Arseniy Pushkov).

🔮 The soundset spans a wide range of tones, from warm, deep and atmospheric textures to clean, punchy, bright and airy timbres. The sounds include different combinations of oscillators in different modes, such as wavetable, FM, granular and spectral as well as different types of reverbs, delays, distortions, filters, and modulations.
Presets are suitable for genres such as ambient, cinematic, IDM, experimental, techno, breakbeat, jungle and many others.

🎛 Macros can change tone, stereo width, modulation depth and rate, noise level, distortion, detuning, space/echo/reverb, effects mix, envelope parameters, and others.
You may control them via MIDI controller, use them for automation, or map the macros to your DAW modulators like LFO, Shaper, and others.

ModWheel adds expressiveness to the timbre.

❗️Compatible only with Serum 2. Not compatible with Serum 1.
Installation: Open the Serum menu and click 'Show Serum Presets Folder.' You will see folders containing different Serum content. Open the 'Presets' folder and place the new bank (folder) of presets there."

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Oberheim DSX Digital Polyphonic Sequencer SN A42406

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

via this Reverb listing

"In the dark ages of synthesis, before midi, the questions of sequencing and programming had yet to be answered. A feature folks wanted to have but had yet to be invented. Leave it to the big brains at Oberheim to come to our rescue!

The DSX was released as part of the proprietary Oberheim Parallel Buss system. This allowed users to connect the OB-8, DMX drum machine, and the DSX allowing for easy control and syncing of synths. In addition to controlling these synths, the DSX features 8 CV and Gate outputs to control up to 8 more other analog synthesizers!

The DSX records in realtime the notes and patch changes you create while playing your OB-synth. It can hold up to 6,000 notes! The DSX can store up to 10 different sequences/songs. Each sequence can have 10 polyphonic tracks for multiple OB-synths and DMXs. Patch info including splits and doubles can be stored too. Quantizing, looping, editing, transposing, and sequence merging are a few more features. If you've got any of these classic (pre-MIDI) Oberheim analog OB-synths lying around, the DSX is an easy way to directly control them in a classic way, and without any need for MIDI retro-fits or interfaces."

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Sid Station driven by Lightreft Monolit exploring SID textures and grit

video upload by HANJŌ

"Afternoon exploration session with 3 silver boxes, the Elektron Machinedrum handling the beat and the classic SID Station led by the Lightreft Monolit on the 2.0β firmware.

Machinedrum keeps things tight and mechanical while the SID Station focuses on texture. Bit-grit, noise edges, and shifting timbres.

Just experimenting, seeing how far the monolit can take Midi Automation over an IDM groove. #machinedrum #sidstation #idm"

####

The LightReft Monolit made its first appearance on the site earlier this month in another video by HANJŌ.

The following is a playlist featuring dditional demos, followed by some pics and details further below.

Lightreft Monolit Sequencer Demos

video uploads by Sasha DZA

Playlist (in most recent order - video 7 is from one year ago):

1. Monolit Sequencer

2. Machinedrum + Monolit : Simple Setup

3. MONOLIT x DECKARD'S DREAM MK2

4. Monolit: Quick Tips for Hardware Users

In this video, we demonstrate how Monolit connects seamlessly with synths, grooveboxes, and samplers — no computer needed.
No deep menus, no distractions — just a clean interface and immediate control.

We explore different scenarios where Monolit shines: real-time MIDI control, clock generation, note and CC mapping, automation, and even gamepad integration.
Hand-built in Japan, Monolit is a minimal yet powerful tool for artists seeking intuitive, hands-on control.

Chapters:
00:00 — Intro
00:23 — Octatrack MK2 DJ setup ideas
02:42 — Scratching on Octatrack MK2
03:07 — Note-sliders / Quantisation
03:56 — Monomachine Drone
04:45 — External controller macros setup
05:08 — Double Monolit setup
05:47 — Retro game controller
06:36 — Advanced Game controller

5. Monolit Firmware 1.2.0: Unlocking New MIDI Control Features!

In this video, we dive into the new features introduced in Monolit firmware v1.2.0. From advanced MIDI routing to external slider control and dynamic button functions — Monolit just got a serious upgrade. We’re showcasing a dual-Monolit setup, where one unit controls the other, which is connected to an Elektron Monomachine.

6. Monolit × Octatrack — Live Performance Control Demo | LightReft

7. LightReft - MONOLIT v.1.0.0

00:00 - INTRODUCTION
04:36 - EDIT MENU
07:22 - CC MODE
13:12 - NOTES MODE
17:26 - LFO MODE
20:33 - MOTION MODE
23:07 - SETTINGS
24:53 - PRESET MANAGER
26:13 - MAX/MSP
30:26 - TOUCHDESIGNER
33:29 - EURORACK MODULAR
41:29 - MODEL:SAMPLES
45:02 - CONCLUSION

Welcome to the first tutorial on the MONOLIT device! In this 40+ minute video, you’ll get acquainted with the essential settings, programming, and MIDI control on MONOLIT, while exploring the device’s unique capabilities. This session covers the key aspects of working with MONOLIT, making it an ideal guide for musicians and producers who want to master its full potential.

Main topics covered:
Initial setup and connecting MONOLIT
Programming and MIDI control
Using functions and operational modes

Dive into the world of sound with this introduction to MONOLIT! Tutorial by Tim Shatny.

"MONOLIT by Light Reft

A smart, modular MIDI computer built for live performance and smooth integration with any setup. ​

Monolit is not a controller you map once to forget.
It is a playable instrument - a physical interface that lets you shape sound through motion, record gestures as automation, and turn parameters into something alive. ​

Designed for those who don’t just adjust sound, but perform it.

WHY MONOLIT?

A motion driven MIDI instrument for live sound shaping, expressive sequencing, and gestural automation.
​
8 banks with 64 controls per preset
Real-time MIDI automation and parameter morphing
Seamless DAW + hardware integration
USB, TRS-MIDI, external device support
​
Customizable, minimal, and fast.
​
MEET MONOLIT, YOUR NEW MULTIFUNCTIONAL MIDI COMPANION!
​
MONOLIT by Light Reft is a cutting-edge, multifunctional MIDI-computer that transforms your music production experience. Designed for musicians who seek precision and flexibility, MONOLIT offers seamless integration with all DAWs and hardware devices, customizable presets, and an intuitive interface for effortless control and creativity.
​
Whether you're diving into your DAW or jamming out with external hardware instruments, MONOLIT has you covered. An endless library of presets at your fingertips—each one offering 8 banks, with 8 sliders and 8 buttons per bank. That's a whole lot of control!

For each slider and button, we present a range of versatile options. You can record MIDI automation, set delay times for slider movements, send notes and LFOs, and adjust various parameters directly within the device. This flexibility ensures that you have complete control over every detail of your setup.
​
But it doesn't stop there. MONOLIT is as versatile as you are, allowing you to connect other devices like Gamepads, Keyboards, Monome Grid , or any MIDI device you fancy. This means you can take command of your entire setup, all through one sleek, powerful interface. Whether you're crafting the perfect beat, tweaking synths, or anything in between, MONOLIT is the tool that brings your musical ideas to life with ease and style.
​
Designed and assembled in Japan, MONOLIT is ready to be shipped worldwide.

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YAMAHA TQ5 Bass

video upload by Akihiko Matsumoto

"TQ5 Sysex Bass Presets: FMWarpBass.syx, TriRave.syx & OldDubStep.syx from https://akihikomatsumoto.sellfy.store...

Raw FM textures for forward-thinking bass music producers
This pack captures the unmistakable character of Yamaha’s late 1980s 4-operator FM synths, with all their sharp digital edges and lo-fi charm intact. The TQ5, often hidden in the shadow of its more famous siblings, holds a unique place in synthesis history. It delivers angular, glassy tones that feel both futuristic and retro, with a sound design potential that quietly laid the groundwork for timbres now celebrated in modern club music.

Created for producers who care about texture, this collection offers bass and drum sounds with a distinct edge. Artifacts, aliasing, and resolution quirks are not just preserved but embraced, giving each sample a bite that generic VSTs rarely achieve."

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MFB Urzwerg Pro

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

via this Reverb listing

"One of the best step sequencers ever made, with a degree of immediate flexibility missing with much more expensive and complex machines. Great, compact, sturdy & lightweight tool for modular system or polysynths control. Sweet bakelite retro vibes.

MIDI & CV/gate operation. Control 4 synths or modules simultaneously with one sequencer – or layer 4 polyphonic voices.

4 rows of 8 steps each, linkable to 2x16 steps

gate on/off + CV rotary control per row

set number of steps per row (in real time)

individual gate & CV outputs per row! MIDI in out thru on the back.

range and gate length can be set in real time, for unparalleled improv capabilities

deep MIDI programmability: have 2 rows do pitch, another do velocity etc... adapt to any use

rows can move back, forth and <–>

control number of steps per row and program polyrhythms on the fly

2 shuffle modes

LED per step showing you where you are (new to Pro)

Technically immaculate.

Excellent cosmetic condition."

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Korg Wavestate – "KAV Bundle" 120 Performances

video upload by LFOstore

"New sound pack for Korg Wavestate / mkII / Se /Module/ Native

Finally available the bundle 3lAtlas + Weather Station + "Classic Synth Waves" for your Korg Wavestate!

BUY: https://kav-sound-explorer.sellfy.sto...

Sound Bundle for Korg Wavestate / mkII / Se /Module/ Native

1) Korg Wavestate "3IAtlas" sound pack

This year, we will be visited by a rare visitor – the interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS! Finding such an object is extremely rare: 3I/ATLAS is only the third interstellar object known to humans.

However, not everyone agrees that 3I/ATLAS is just a comet: could an alien spacecraft have entered our solar system?

'3IAtlas' sound pack contents: 40 performances, 87 programs, multisamples

What’s Inside: •40 performances •87 programs •51 MB of custom multisamples •Designed for cinematic, ambient, and electronic use •Includes analog, digital, evolving, and hybrid tones •Works seamlessly in professional and experimental contexts

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ARP Foundation's Soul of the Machine CD & Download Update

If you haven't picked up a copy of the release, now might be a good time.

via the Alan R Pearlman Foundation:

Soul of the Machine is a Roaring Success!!!

We have officially sold half of our limited edition CD; we are also going to end our introductory 'Name Your Price' for downloads on BandCamp soon, so don't hesitate to purchase today!

Praise from BandCamp (Alan R Pearlman Foundation and Projekt Records )

"A tribute to the creator of my favorite music instruments. I Like the sound of the ARPs in classical electronic albums. Great record with many great contributions!"

"No favourite track, just indulging in the sonic wash of this amazing album. Just wonderful."

"...what an AMAZING collection!! ..."

"A ritual offering—ARP as oracle, muse, and monument. The machine has a soul. And here, it sings."

"It's hard to pick a favorite track off of this compilation... Lots of groovy music by a lot of artists.I had never heard of, but there are a few artists.I am familiar with. this is pretty groovy stuff... " "Awesome tribute and collection. Mr. Roach has somehow found time to be an archivist. would love a second volume. get this as both sampler and tribute..." Purchase from BandCamp

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Korg Wavestate - "Synthwave" Soundset (40 Performances)

video upload by LFOstore

"Fire up the engine of your Korg Wavestate and ignite a time warp to the golden age of analog synths and neon-drenched aesthetics. "Synthwave" is a powerhouse collection of 40 performance-ready presets meticulously crafted for one purpose: to deliver the authentic, punchy, and nostalgic sound of the 1980s with a touch of a modern vision!

From the opening scene of a retro-futuristic thriller to the main title of your next synthwave anthem, this soundset is your all-access pass to the decade that defined electronic music. This collection is a complete production toolkit, featuring punchy basslines, driving drumloops, warm neon leads, lush keyboards, hypnotic sequences and analog-style pads!

'Synthwave' isn't just inspired by the past—it's built for the future of synthesis. Every preset leverages the Wavestate’s advanced wave sequencing, vector mixing, and motion control to create dynamic, evolving sounds that feel alive and authentically. All presets are modulation wheel - assigned. This soundset is perfect for synthwave & retrowave producers, film & game composers and every Wavestate owner ready to unlock the ultimate retro-futuristic experience!

Please find more detailed description and download link here - https://ottolfo.sellfy.store/wavestate"

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

CLICK FOR MORE »

Soul Of the Machine: A Celebration of the Life & Legacy of ARP founder Alan R. Pearlman

via the Alan R Pearlman Foundation

Available on Bandcamp here

Press release follows:

Kingston, NY— In 2025, the Alan R. Pearlman Foundation celebrates the centennial of its namesake, the electronic visionary whose marvelous ARP synthesizers changed the landscape of music forever. As part of the ongoing celebrations, the Foundation is announcing the release of Soul Of The Machine, a 36-track musical celebration of the man and his creations as interpreted by a diverse range of recording artists.

Soul Of The Machine is a 36-track collection of tracks old and new, covering everything from innovative electronic, dance, and space music to jazz, funk, and Latin pop, all featuring the signature sounds of classic ARP instruments. The collection includes everything from ARP’s first synthesizer — the massively powerful ARP 2500 modular system — to the instruments that rewrote the rules on how electronics and music came together. The 2600, Odyssey, Pro Soloist, Omni, and many more ARP instruments sing, cry, scream, and soar, in the hands of musical talents both legends and newcomers.

Soul Of The Machine is a treasure trove of musical exploration. Martin Gore’s “KIno" combines Depeche Mode’s signature rhythmic power with a uniquely lyrical and sweet atmosphere. “Mr. No” is a celebration of the classic proto-techno sound of John Foxx. Award-winning soundtrack composer Mark Isham showcases his signature pulsating energy and evocative moodscapes in the mini-suite “Musings – in Two Parts”. Lisa Bella Donna takes listeners on a journey into timeless wonder in the epic “Conclusions.” JG Thirlwell’s “Sphere” is a synth freakout ricocheting between ominous sci-fi atmospheres and searing beats. Panic Girl offers "Drifting Whispers," a somber and uplifting neo-retro journey into a past that never was.

Other artists on the collection include Michael Brückner, Phil Cirocco, Rupert Greenall, LaMar "Kronick" Mitchell, Jeff Rona, Drew Schlesinger & David Torn, Don Slepian, and many others, as well as tracks by the collection's curators Steve Roach and Chris Meyer of Alias Zone.

Famed ambient / electronic pioneer and ARP user since 1978, Steve Roach shares his thoughts on Soul Of The Machine: "In 2024 I had the honor of meeting Dina Pearlman-Ifil — the director of the Alan R Pearlman Foundation — in person. Over the course of several phone conversations we discussed ways to celebrate the centennial year of her father's life and his place in history. My idea for a compilation of music using her father’s creations grew out of those conversations, presenting a perfect way to directly experience the vast range of music that was birthed by the family of ARP synthesizers. This compilation is just a small taste of the universe Alan inspired in sound explorers and artists across a vast range of genres."

Steve mapped out the music so that CD 1 represents a sonic journey and CD 2 provides a showcase of the depth and breadth of what ARP synths can do. After both CDs were finalized, there were more tracks than room on the CDs. These additional songs are available as a bonus digital supplement to the physical CD set.

Says Dina Pearlman-Ifil: “I have long-dreamed of a multi-genre collection that would illustrate the depth and breadth of the possibilities of my father's instruments. This collection is the embodiment of what my father treasured most: The creative spirit. As the old ARP tagline used to say: ‘The most creative part of an ARP Synthesizer is you.’”

The Alan R. Pearlman Foundation is dedicated to the empowerment of young and burgeoning artists into the future. When we look at classical instruments born hundreds of years ago, we see that Alan Pearlman's synthesizers stand tall, earning their place in the evolution of musical history. Acoustic or electric, their common ground is the enduring inspiration for creativity and sonic innovation that inspires the hearts and minds of musicians, performers, and sound explorers worldwide.

Soul Of The Machine will be available for streaming on October 17, 2025. The special limited edition CD will be available for purchase in early-to-mid-November.

Proceeds go the Alan R. Pearlman Foundation

The Alan R. Pearlman Foundation is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization.
Our mission is to celebrate the legacy of inventor, musician, entrepreneur and engineer Alan R. Pearlman, by making his innovative inventions publicly accessible, and by inspiring future generations to imagine and create.

ARP Centennial Compilation Concept: Steve Roach
Project Directors: Steve Roach, Chris Meyer, and Dina Pearlman-Ifil Mastered by: Robert Rich

Cover concept and design by Dina Pearlman-Ifil, production by Sharon Wasko

This compilation wouldn't be possible without the support of our incredible sponsors: Cherry Audio, Korg USA, Moog Music and Steve Roach.
Also HUGE thanks to Chris Meyer / Alias Zone, Mark Marshall / interage.com for all things web, Dr. Mike Metlay/ atomicwords.net for creative input on the liner notes, and Sam Rosenthal / Projekt Records.

Purchase from BandCamp: https://alanrpearlmanfoundation.bandcamp.com/album/soul-of-the-machine...

Sublime Wavelengths: The Cosmic Bliss of FM Synthesis

You might remember Clan Analogue Accepting Contributions for Upcoming FM Synthesis Compilation Album from back in July of 2024.

Nick Wilson of Clan Analogue in Australia wrote in to let us know he is excited to report that they have finally released the album!

Additional details via the release on Bandcamp:

Q1. What is FM synthesis?
A1. The cheesy sounds of mid-80s pop music
A2. A technique enabling sound designers to tap into the underlying mathematical structures of the Universe
Q2. Can both of these be true?

Australia’s pioneering electronic music collective Clan Analogue explore these important questions with their dazzling new release - Sublime Wavelengths: The Cosmic Bliss of FM Synthesis. This compilation takes listeners on a journey through the shimmering tones, intricate modulations, and futuristic landscapes of FM synthesis. Sublime Wavelengths is a celebration of the iconic synthesis method of frequency modulation which revolutionised sound design in the 1980s and defined an era of electronic music.

The artists on Sublime Wavelengths explore FM synthesis in all its manifestations. Jacek Tuschewski and Darrow explore the transcendant qualities of frequency modulation with their expansive contributions, while KOshowKO and Boris Divjak each embrace driving rhythmic and melodic possibilities with their cosmic melding of digital precision and human expression. Meanwhile experimental harpist Kris Keogh pushes sonic transformation to the limit with a mutated strain of crushed and squished FM processing while Sussiguala creates an unrelenting rhythmic structure pulsing with dubbed-out sine wave modulation. The technology employed from the artists’ studios ranges from the classic 1980s Yamaha DX7 synthesizer, heard on contributions from Infinity Deck and BluNjin, to the newest hardware, VST synths and coding environments, such as those used by Acidalius and Marcus Newman. Sublime Wavelengths doesn’t neglect the party vibe of 80s-flavoured pop, with celebratory grooving contributions from Swinging Tasty Bag and Just the Tip-pet. The compilation culminates with the high energy sounds of Mr Rachele before dissipating into hypnotic closing tracks by Intermodd and Cylan.

The album reflects the collective spirit of experimentation that Clan Analogue has nurtured since the early ‘90s, while embracing the retro-futurist charm and crystalline complexity that FM synthesis offers. Whether you’re a synth enthusiast, an electronic music aficionado, or simply a listener ready for a sonic adventure, Sublime Wavelengths invites you to tune into a higher frequency.

Sublime Wavelengths is dedicated to the memory of Jacek Tuschewski who passed away prior to the release of the compilation.

released September 2, 2025

Executive Producer: Tieran Kimber
Design: James Wingrove
Label support: Nick Wilson
Mastering: Darren Ziesing at Millennium Mastering, except track 1 mastered by Martin Koszolko
Listening panel: Wade Clarke and Marcus Newman

Korg Delta DL-50 String Synthesizer SN 286237

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

via this Reverb listing

Additional SYNTH CITY Listings

"Fully functional Korg Delta, fun and easy to use synth that nails many classic sounds. Tested in great working condition with just some cosmetic issues due to age!

Korg's Delta is an analog semi-poly synth/string machine, basically a slimmed down version of the Korg. Though limited in the range of sounds compared with other synths of the same genre, the sheer quality of the sound from this little beastie really does make it something of a marvel. Amazing retro synth strings and fat bass synth tones.

The synth is split into two sections, Strings and Synth, for which there are separate audio outputs along with a combined output for headphones or mixing. Each section has its own controls. The String section has two pitch sliders (16' and 8') along with two tone controls (Bass and Treble) and variable Attack and Release controls to modify the sound. The Synth section has four pitch sliders (16', 8', 4' and 2'). There is also a white noise generator along with a very effective 24dB/oct low pass filter (high pass and band pass options are included too) and full ADSR controls. The synth has no memory storage or MIDI, however it does has voltage control and gate ins and outs.

The string sounds are very basic but with its separate outputs and when mixed together with the polysynth you do get that classic 'layered' sound which is useful enough on this synth; and it's fully polyphonic, so you wont be running out of notes! There is a handy joystick to the left of the 49-note keyboard for pitch bending and modulation capabilities. The construction is solid and heavy partly due to the implementation of a wooden base but also because it was designed for heavy usage on the road. Added bonuses: noise modulation, stereo out (strings/synth split), and the ability to combine synth and strings or turn off oscillators in the mixer section."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Ambient | YAMAHA TQ5 FM Synth

video upload by Akihiko Matsumoto

"Raw FM textures for forward-thinking bass music producers
https://akihikomatsumoto.sellfy.store...
This pack captures the unmistakable character of Yamaha’s late 1980s 4-operator FM synths, with all their sharp digital edges and lo-fi charm intact. The TQ5, often hidden in the shadow of its more famous siblings, holds a unique place in synthesis history. It delivers angular, glassy tones that feel both futuristic and retro, with a sound design potential that quietly laid the groundwork for timbres now celebrated in modern club music.

CLICK FOR MORE »

📼 '80s reloaded: Roland VP-03 and the allure of the classic vocoder

video upload by SICK FOR SYNTHS

"Discover the Roland Boutique VP-03, the compact vocoder that recreates the legendary Roland VP-330, a key player in electronic music from the '70s and '80s. Used by artists such as Vangelis, Human League, and Laurie Anderson, this instrument defined the sound of an era with its 16-band vocoder, synthetic strings, and ethereal choirs. In this video, we'll explore how the VP-03 works, listen to its vintage sounds, and discover how Roland has captured the magic of a classic in a pocket-sized format.

Perfect for those who love retro synths, cinematic sounds, and the aesthetic of vintage electronics, the VP-03 is a unique instrument for bringing the charm of '70s and '80s productions back to life."

Summon the Darkness - Arp Of Darkness & Seventh Summoner eurorack performanceIMG 5565

video upload by FlatSix Modular

"A one take performance, pairing the Seventh Summoner with the Arp Of Darkness showing how the two used together can turn a small rig into a full featured performance case.

Patch Notes: All clicking duties are handled by Pam’s Pro Workout.

Voice 1 is sequenced by the Seventh Summoner and consists of the vowel patch on Braids through the Ensembles patch on the MFX and then into the retro patch on a Noise Engineering Desmodus Versio with the “MultiVersio” firmware flashed to it. The vowel patch is being modulated by Ebb & LFO patch on the Ornament & Crime running the Phaserville Suite

Voice 2 is a saw wave oscillator from the Disting MK4 processed through a Pittsburgh Modular low pass filter, and being sequenced by Sequence X on an Ornament & Crime module with the Phaserville Suite firmware running.

Voice 3 is being arpeggiated by the Arp Of Darkness, and is made up of a swarm & harm patch on the Neutron Sound Dust of Time running through a ping pong delay on another Disting MK4 by Expert Sleepers.

In-Case Drums are being handled by an Erica Synths Pico Drums module running through A low pass filter on another Disting MK4 and into Data Bender by Qu-Bit for glitching duties.

All outputs run through a Kombucha by WGD for delay send duties and then into a Befaco STMIX for mix down to an Intellijel Headphones output in the 1U row.

Additional drums provided by the K.O. II by Teenage Engineering running my own personal samples."

Ambient | YAMAHA TQ5 FM Synth

video upload by Akihiko Matsumoto

"Raw FM textures for forward-thinking bass music producers
https://akihikomatsumoto.sellfy.store...

This pack captures the unmistakable character of Yamaha’s late 1980s 4-operator FM synths, with all their sharp digital edges and lo-fi charm intact. The TQ5, often hidden in the shadow of its more famous siblings, holds a unique place in synthesis history. It delivers angular, glassy tones that feel both futuristic and retro, with a sound design potential that quietly laid the groundwork for timbres now celebrated in modern club music.

Created for producers who care about texture, this collection offers bass and drum sounds with a distinct edge. Artifacts, aliasing, and resolution quirks are not just preserved but embraced, giving each sample a bite that generic VSTs rarely achieve.

CLICK FOR MORE »

FM Synth Showdown: Kasser Synths DAFM Genesis YM2612 vs Twisted Electrons MegaFM mk2 – Tone Test

video upload by j bowman ALL PROCEEDS TO MEDICAL AID FOR PALESTINE

"🎛️ Time of the Sines | In this deep-dive FM synth comparison, we explore the core tone and sonic character of two standout FM synthesizers: the Kasser Synths DAFM Genesis (featuring the legendary YM2612 chip) and the powerful Twisted Electrons MegaFM mk2. Whether you're into retro game audio, FM sound design, or modern synth tones, this video is a must-watch!

🔊 We'll compare sound design flexibility, core tone differences, and real-world applications in music production. From basses to leads and everything in between, discover how these FM synths stack up against each other in a tone-focused showdown.

🎹 If you’re searching for the best FM synth for your setup or are obsessed with sound design synth workflows, this video delivers the clarity you need to make the right choice.

✅ Perfect for fans of the Kasser Synths DAFM Genesis, Twisted Electrons MegaFM, or anyone diving into FM synthesis with a creative twist. Hit subscribe for more viral synth content and FM deep-dives!"

Teenage Engineering OP-1 w/ Roland P-6: A Series of Quirky Lofi Beats

video upload by goth jocks

"The results of my first couple of weeks with the Teenage Engineering OP-1. It’s a complete 360 from the sequencer heavy workflow of the Elektron boxes. Spiced things up with some FX from the Roland P6 and Source Audio Collider

I remember the first time I saw one of these 10 years ago, I thought it looked like some sort of retro futuristic magic device. I didn’t know anything about synths, but I wanted one so bad. But the price! As I continued to learn more about the synthesizers, the price barrier grew. This thing started to seem like a complete rip off.

Now, thanks to an unexpected trade offer, the Teenage Engineering OP-1 is finally in my possession. My thoughts: worth the wait… and the price"

Cheerful Electronics OPL Studio - First Contact

video upload by j bowman

"🎵 Welcome to Cheerful Electronics OPL Studio - First Contact! 🎛️ In this sound design experiment, we dive deep into the world of FM synthesis using the powerful OPL Studio, exploring retro sounds inspired by classic OPL3 chips. Whether you're a fan of chip music, vintage FM synths, or curious about pushing the limits of sound design, this video is your perfect starting point.

Get ready for rich, textured tones and quirky sonic explorations as we showcase the raw potential of OPL Studio. This first contact session covers live tweaking, patch creation, and modulation — perfect for anyone diving into retro synth workflows or looking for viral FM synthesis content.

If you're into chiptune, retro game soundtracks, or nostalgic hardware-driven music, you'll feel right at home. Watch now and get inspired to experiment with your own OPL3-based synths and plugins!"



via Cheerful Electronics

OPL Studio is the ultimate OPL2 / OPL3 synthesizer! It gives you almost limitless control over what you can do with the OPL3 synthesizer chip.

Features of OPL Studio

OPL Studio has a long list of features. To name a bunch of them:

Integrated patch editor to edit predefined instruments and create your own
Load and save instrument banks from popular formats such as *.BNK, *.SB, *.O3, ect.

Patch linking to layer up to 4 instrument patches for even more complex sounds
Polyphonic sequence editor to create up to 32 drum and 32 melody sequences
Quad sequencer to live play up to four sequences

Composer module that lets you create complete songs from your sequences
Midi channel mixer

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Yamaha FB-01 Frequency Modulation Sound Generator w/ Original Box SN 04220

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

via this eBay listing

"Yamaha FB-01 Frequency Modulation Sound Generator w/ Original Box - Classic FM Synthesis

Unleash the sonic brilliance of classic FM synthesis with this Yamaha FB-01 FM Sound Generator. This compact, rack-mountable unit is a treasure trove of retro digital textures, delivering the unmistakable warmth and clarity of Yamaha’s legendary FM technology. Featuring multi-timbral capabilities, it can handle up to 8 parts simultaneously, making it perfect for layering lush pads, snappy basslines, and shimmering keys. Whether you're diving into vintage sounds for your next project or expanding your studio's versatility, the FB-01 is your gateway to timeless tones.

This unit is in good working condition, with all functions and outputs tested and performing beautifully. Cosmetically, there are some surface marks consistent with its age, but nothing that detracts from its reliability or aesthetic charm. The front panel’s buttons and display are intact and fully operational, offering an intuitive way to navigate its impressive 240 preset voices. It’s an excellent choice for producers, sound designers, and performers who appreciate the gritty magic of early digital synths.

With its MIDI connectivity and user-friendly interface, the Yamaha FB-01 integrates seamlessly into any setup, whether hardware or DAW-based. From crystalline electric pianos to growling bass tones, this unit excels in capturing the essence of 80s and 90s FM synthesis. If you're ready to add some authentic vintage flair to your sound arsenal, this Yamaha FB-01 is the perfect addition to your rig!"

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