MPC X Session: Stage EP, Organ, Fabric XL, and Yamaha YC

video upload by Retrothusiast

"Join me as I dive into a bluesy rock ballad created entirely on the MPC X SE! Starting with the Soulful Rhodes patch on the Yamaha YC, I built out the track using the Stage E' for electric piano, added layers of the Organ plugin, and wrapped it all up with a punchy bass line on Fabric XL. Watch as this song idea comes to life, showcasing the power and versatility of the MPC X SE.

👉 Gear Featured in This Video:

Akai MPC X SE
Akai Stage EP (Rhodes) Plugin
Akai Fabric XL (Bass) Plugin
Yamaha YC (Original Song Idea)
Prophet 10 (MIDI controller)

🎵 Listen to tracks recorded off of the MPC X SE:

/ mpc-x-session-stage-ep-organ-and-fabric-xl

Read the related Substack post:

Coming Soon!

Chapters:
0:00 Intro
0:45 Session Begins
1:35 Recording The Rhodes
2:25 Bring In The Organ
3:14 Drum Track
4:04 Landing Down The Bass
4:54 Fixing Mistakes
5:17 Find The Rhodes Sound
5:53 That's a Wrap!
6:16 Outro
6:31 Full Track Listen

I love retro music production gear, computers and electronics. Follow me on YouTube, Facebook and Retrothusiast.com if you share the same passions.

https://www.retrothusiast.com"

MPC X Session: Akai Mini D, Jura, and Casio SA-46

video upload by Retrothusiast

"Join me for another creative MPC X session as I expand on a song idea that started with a simple bass line on my son’s Casio SA-46. Using the Akai Mini D plugin, I recreated the bass sequence and layered it with lush bells and arpeggios from the JURA plugin. All of this was produced directly on the retro-inspired MPC X SE, with my Prophet 10 acting as a MIDI controller.

This session showcases the power of the MPC X and Akai’s incredible plugin suite, proving you don’t need external instruments to create a full-sounding track.

👉 Gear Featured in This Video:

Akai MPC X SE
Akai Mini D Plugin
JURA Plugin
Casio SA-46 (original bass idea)
Prophet 10 (MIDI controller)

🎵 Listen to tracks recorded off of the MPC X SE:

Retrothusiast · MPC X Session: Mini D, Jura, and Casio SA-46

Chapters:
0:00 Intro
0:37 Session Begins
9:50 That's a Wrap!
10:18 Full Track

I love retro music production gear, computers and electronics. Follow me on YouTube, Facebook and Retrothusiast.com if you share the same passions.

https://www.retrothusiast.com"

Tascam 388 Session: Prophet 10, MPC X, Yamaha RX11, Line6 HX Stomp XL

video upload by Retrothusiast

"Join me in this exciting recording session featuring the Tascam 388, a classic multitrack recorder that's stood the test of time. Starting with a groovy drum beat crafted on the Yamaha RX11, I sequenced the rhythm alongside a deep, punchy bassline from the Prophet 10 using the powerful MPC X. From there, I tracked everything in stereo on the Tascam 388, laying down the foundation for an inspiring retro music production. Adding to the mix, I recorded two guitar tracks through the versatile Line6 HX Stomp XL, and wrapped it up with a live synth performance on the Prophet 10, bringing the session to life.

This video showcases the seamless workflow and unique sonic character of these iconic pieces of gear. You'll hear the raw, unprocessed sound of the Tascam 388, letting you experience its warm analog tone. Whether you're a fan of vintage music equipment or curious about retro recording techniques, this session highlights how these classic tools—Tascam 388, Prophet 10, MPC X, Yamaha RX11, and Line6 HX Stomp XL—come together to create something timeless"

Chapters:
0:00 Intro
0:43 The RX11 Beat
1:01 Sequencing on MPC X
1:25 Prophet 10 Bass
1:51 Guitar Tracks
2:40 Prophet Lead
3:08 Checking Work
4:03 Wrap
4:40 Full Listen

https://www.retrothusiast.com

Listen to the raw, unprocessed recording straight off of the Tascam 388:

Retrothusiast · Tascam 388 Session: Prophet 10, MPC X, Yamaha RX11, Line6 HX Stomp XL

The DSI Tempest Analog Drum Machine is a Great Sounding Synth!

video upload by Retrothusiast

Also see: DSI Tempest: An Analog Drum Machine for the Digital Age

"The DSI Tempest is known for its incredible analog drum machine capabilities, but did you know it’s also a powerful six-voice synthesizer? In this video, I explore the Tempest’s synth side, showcasing its ability to produce lush pads, gritty basslines, and evolving textures that rival standalone analog synthesizers. With dual analog oscillators, a sub-oscillator, and two digital oscillators per voice, the Tempest offers a vast palette of sonic possibilities. I'll be exploring some amazing sounds crafted by Tim Mantle (Psalm37), highlighting just how versatile this hybrid machine truly is.

Whether you’re a Tempest owner or just curious about its lesser-known capabilities, this demo reveals how it can be so much more than a drum machine. Stick around to hear rich analog tones, expressive modulation, and the inspiring range this instrument has to offer. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more deep dives into iconic music gear and synth demos. Let’s explore the analog soul of the Tempest together!

Tim Mantle / Psalm37patches - 128 Synth Sounds for the DSI Tempest: [video below]

http://www.timmantle.com/psalm37.html

Note, you may hear crackling sounds in some of the patches. This is coming from my Tempest itself. I don't know if this is normal or my tempest needs repair. I'll check with Sequential to see if they still repair these and post an update in the comments once I learn more.

Read the related Substack post:

https://www.retrothusiast.com/p/dsi-t...

I love retro music production gear, computers and electronics. Follow me on YouTube, Facebook and Retrothusiast.com if you share the same passions.

https://www.retrothusiast.com"

!!All New!! DSI Tempest - 128 Synth Sounds / Patches / Presets

video upload by Tim Mantle / Psalm37patches

DSI Tempest: An Analog Drum Machine for the Digital Age

video upload by Retrothusiast

"The DSI Tempest is a groundbreaking analog drum machine that combines the best of both analog synthesis and digital control, making it a favorite among electronic musicians and beatmakers. Released in 2011 as a collaboration between legendary designers Dave Smith and Roger Linn, the Tempest delivers six powerful analog voices, each with dual oscillators, filters, and comprehensive sound-shaping options. With 16 responsive, pressure-sensitive pads, real-time effects, and unique features like the Roll function, the Tempest offers hands-on control that brings beats and sequences to life, whether in the studio or on stage. This is a drum machine with an unmistakable analog soul in a digital world.

For those seeking the warmth of analog combined with modern flexibility, the DSI Tempest stands out as more than just a beatmaker—it’s a complete performance instrument. Users can layer sounds, experiment with live sequencing, and even use it as a six-voice synthesizer when connected to a MIDI keyboard. Its robust step and live recording systems make it perfect for building complex patterns, stacking beats, and switching sounds on the fly. Whether you’re crafting intricate grooves or exploring unique soundscapes, the DSI Tempest remains a powerful tool for anyone wanting analog depth with digital precision.

Chapters:
0:00 Intro
0:47 Background
1:28 Analog Soul
2:17 Performance Tools
2:55 What Makes It Unique
3:31 Sweat Cheeks
3:48 Why The Tempest
4:26 Wrap-up
4:43 Outro
4:56 Groove On

I love retro computers and retro music production gear. Follow me on YouTube, Facebook and Retrothusiast.com if you share the same passions.

https://www.retrothusiast.com"

DSI Tempest: An Analog Drum Machine for the Digital Age

video upload by Retrothusiast

"The DSI Tempest is a groundbreaking analog drum machine that combines the best of both analog synthesis and digital control, making it a favorite among electronic musicians and beatmakers. Released in 2011 as a collaboration between legendary designers Dave Smith and Roger Linn, the Tempest delivers six powerful analog voices, each with dual oscillators, filters, and comprehensive sound-shaping options. With 16 responsive, pressure-sensitive pads, real-time effects, and unique features like the Roll function, the Tempest offers hands-on control that brings beats and sequences to life, whether in the studio or on stage. This is a drum machine with an unmistakable analog soul in a digital world.

For those seeking the warmth of analog combined with modern flexibility, the DSI Tempest stands out as more than just a beatmaker—it’s a complete performance instrument. Users can layer sounds, experiment with live sequencing, and even use it as a six-voice synthesizer when connected to a MIDI keyboard. Its robust step and live recording systems make it perfect for building complex patterns, stacking beats, and switching sounds on the fly. Whether you’re crafting intricate grooves or exploring unique soundscapes, the DSI Tempest remains a powerful tool for anyone wanting analog depth with digital precision.

Chapters:
0:00 Intro
0:47 Background
1:28 Analog Soul
2:17 Performance Tools
2:55 What Makes It Unique
3:31 Sweat Cheeks
3:48 Why The Tempest
4:26 Wrap-up
4:43 Outro
4:56 Groove On"

https://www.retrothusiast.com

Roland JUPITER-Xm: An Entire Band You Can Carry with 3 Fingers!

video upload by Retrothusiast

"Explore the incredible versatility of the Roland JUPITER-Xm in this video, where I dive deep into its unique features, multitimbral capabilities, and vintage synth sounds. Known for emulating iconic synths like the Jupiter-8, Juno-106, and SH-101, the JUPITER-Xm brings legendary 80s sounds to life in a compact, portable package.

Discover how this powerhouse synth layers up to five parts simultaneously—four synths and one drum track—enabling you to stack classic sounds like Jupiter basslines, Juno pads, and TR-707 beats all in one composition. Whether you're a fan of retro sounds or modern electronic music, the JUPITER-Xm is designed to elevate your music creation with endless possibilities.

Checkout the track of the song in this video: / when-we-were-young"

Retrothusiast · When We Were Young

https://www.retrothusiast.com

Why Tuning Issues Aren't a Reason to Ditch Your Prophet 10

video upload by Retrothusiast

"The Prophet 10 is a beautiful, amazing instrument, but you may run into situations where you aren’t able to keep it in tune. In this video I will show how to get your Prophet in tune and keep it in tune."

Chapters:
0:00 Intro
0:15 Getting Butterflies
0:45 Is It Really Out of Tune?
1:49 Calibrating Tuning
2:05 Calibration Table
3:17 Moving Target
3:37 Old Betsy
4:35 Reset Calibration Tables
5:57 Update Your Firmware
6:10 Don't Expect Perfection
6:24 You May Need a Repair
6:49 Outro

https://www.retrothusiast.com
https://www.patreon.com/retrothusiast

Also see:
Replacing the Main Board in a Sequential Prophet 5/10 & Why The Finicky Analog Prophet 10 is Better Than Digital Keyboards

Update: see the Sequential forums for additional info on this topic: https://forum.sequential.com/index.php?topic=5518.0

Why The Finicky Analog Prophet 10 is Better Than Digital Keyboards

video upload by Retrothusiast

"The Prophet 10 is a wonderful analog synthesizer. However, from tuning issues to dropped notes, there were a few bumps in the road to reach my destination. Follow me on my journey as I explore this amazing instrument!

Chapters:
0:00 Intro
0:44 Want the Real Thing
1:16 Prophet 10 Specs
2:01 Prophet 10 Sound Demo
3:37 Tuning Issues & Dropped Notes
4:37 Prophet 10 Board Replacement
4:55 How To Turn On A Prophet
6:58 Afterglow

Watch Alex Ball tell the story of the Prophet: [posted here]

Watch me replace the Prophet 10 main board:"

Replacing the Main Board in a Sequential Prophet 5/10

video upload by Retrothusiast

"I had to replace the main board in my Sequential Prophet 10 because when the Rev 1/2 filters were selected, some of the notes would drop out. This is, however, after I had already replaced this keyboard because my first keyboard would not stay in tune. I'll be posting another video touching on this in the near future.

Sequential sent me new boards and I recorded a quick, down and dirty video documenting the procedure for anyone else who might have to replace their boards and wanted to see what's involved.

I followed these instructions provided by Sequential Support:

https://www.sequential.com/prophet-5-...

Hats off to Sequential Support. This company really is top-notch and despite the issues I had with the hardware, I can tell the Sequential team really cares and is extremely helpful and supportive! Thank you, Sequential!"

https://www.retrothusiast.com

Retrothusiast Played a Juno 108 and You Can Too!

video upload by Retrothusiast

"I love the retro Juno 60 and 106 but with the crazy prices as of late, I am not ready to pull the trigger on investing in one. However, the Roland JU-06A is scratching that itch until the day comes I have my own Juno 60!

Enjoy seeing me turn two JU-06A synths together into an 8-voice Juno 60 and 106!"

https://www.retrothusiast.com