Includes numbered, limited edition 40th Anniversary poster printed in gold foil on acid-free paper.
$4,999
Preorders open September 2, 10:00AM PDT."
"Due to the unavailability of parts, especially those related the now-discontinued Zilog Z80 CPU, Rossum does not anticipate being able to produce any more SP-1200 reissue units after the 40th Anniversary Edition."
Also see the 2023 red on black SP-1200 E-A-SKI Special Edition below
These two new volumes in my Synth Evolution ‘zine series were launched at last weekend’s SynthEast event in Norwich, UK. They are Volume 3: Modern Classics, and Volume 4: Modular Greats. I’ve moved into the 21st Century with these two! As ever, they feature my signature hand-drawn illustrations and are full of facts, figures and tech-specs:
Volume 3: Modern Classics
Synthesizer Evolution: From Analogue to Digital (and Back) author Oli Freke returns with a new volume in his Synthesizer Evolution A6 zine series. The first two volumes (Vintage Synths and Drum Machines & Samplers) focused on vintage electronic instruments from the 1970s and 1980s. Volume three moves into the 21st century, showcasing a selection of the most interesting, impactful, and—arguably—best synthesizers of the past two decades.
The synths in this book celebrate the vast range of sonic possibilities now available to musicians and producers. From analogue wonders to extraordinary digital creations, from tightly designed monosynths to open-ended polyphonic beasts, each one is more marvellous than the last! Also featuring ‘Desert Island Modular’ choices from Robin Vincent, Steve Davis, Panic Girl and more.
The modular resurgence of the past 25 years has been a wonder to behold. Where musicians were once chained to their DAWs, we are now liberated once again to wire, patch, and modulate in the real world, choosing from a mind-boggling array of options.
Modular Greats celebrates the fusion of art, logic, science, and serendipity in modular synthesis, highlighting some of the best-selling, most creative, and most impactful modules of the 21st century. Featured manufacturers include Make Noise, Mutable Instruments, TipTop Audio, Intellijel, Rossum Electro-Music, Doepfer—and many more!
"We take a ride along California Highway 2, the Glendale Freeway. We start on Glendale Blvd in the Silverlake neighborhood of Los Angeles, and then follow CA 2 onto the freeway north through Los Angeles, Glendale, and it's terminus at I-210 (Foothill Freeway) in La Canada / Flintridge. CA 2 continues north from here as the Angeles Crest HIghway.
Original soundtrack by Amanda Chaudhary, featuring the following instruments: Arturia Jun-6 V, Wurli V, CP-70, Clavinet Cherry Audio Pro Soloist, Chroma, Atomika, Memorymode Vintage 1979 Minimoog Big Fish Audio Grindhouse AudioModeling SWAM Trumpet, Tenor Sax, Flute, Clarinet, Bass Clarinet BFD drums Various percussion instruments from the EastWest sound library
The final segment along I-210 features music from our earlier "Interstate 210 (Foothill Freeway)" video • Interstate 210 (Foothill Freeway): Pa... Minimoog (1979 model, fully restored) Cherry Audio CR-78 drum machine and Sines Strymon Starlab UAD Electra 88 Arturia Mellotron V and Pigments Morphor Plectrum Karlplus-Strong module Rossum Electro-music Morpheus Z-plane filter East West Fab Four (bass), Hollywood Orchestral Woodwinds (contrabassoon), Fantasy Brass (Wagner Tubas) AudioThing GongAmp and Reels _____ please consider supporting us: Merch Store: https://shop.catsynth.com Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/catsynth Patreon: / catsynth
00:00 Introduction 00:11 CA 2: Glendale Blvd in Los Angeles 00:57 CA 2: Glendale Freeway 4:59 Merging onto I-210 (Foothill Freeway)"
"In celebration of the 40th anniversary of the groundbreaking E-mu Systems Emulator II sampler, Dave Rossum, Kevin Monahan and Paul Wiffen share inside stories of the development and manufacture of the instrument, their struggles to get around the technological limitations of the time and how the instrument was widely adopted by bands, artists and pop culture.
Chapters 00:00 - Introduction 01:50 - The Origins Of The Emulator 03:59 - The E-mu Name 04:57 - Kevin's Background 08:09 - Paul's Background 11:19 - The Motivation For Creating Emulator II 16:26 - Specific Challenges 25:19 - The Challenges Of Adding Hard Drives 30:35 - How Did The Iconic Industrial Design Come About? 35:11 - Having Two Disc Drives 38:22 - How Artists Responded To The Emulator II 46:46 - Using Sampling To Create Novelty Sounds 56:08 - Kevin's Contribution To Ferris Bueller's Day Off 57:37 - The Legacy Of The Emulator II And Sampling
"Thank you for watching! Here are the simple patch notes, a list of the gear, and more information.
https://wac-lounge.bandcamp.com
Instagram / wac_lounge
Percussive voice = Plaits processed by Mimeophon(clocked by Steppy) sequenced by Chord Machine program controlled & triggered by Steppy enveloped by System100-140ENV modulation from System100-140ENV & LFO(attenuated by MATHS) slew limiter A-184-1 Random lead voice = Mob of Emus CH1 processed by A-120VCF1 & Beads sequenced by Mob of Emus CH3 slew limiter MATHS modulation from Mob of Emus CH6 Synth lead voice = Mob of Emus CH1 processed by A-120VCF1 & Echoz sequenced by Mob of Emus CH3 slew limiter MATHS modulation from Mob of Emus CH6 Brass-like lead voice = Ensemble Oscillator with modulation from Mob of Emus CH5 & MATHS sequenced by Flame C-3mk2 Reverse piano voice = Disting triggered by Steppy Piano loop voice = Volca sample Master clock = Volca sample (divided by Steppy)
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.
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.
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.
"Thank you for watching! Here are the simple patch notes, a list of the gear, and more information.
https://wac-lounge.bandcamp.com
Echoed bell voice = Rings processed by Mimeophon(clocked by Steppy) sequenced by Mob of Emus CH3 Granular ambient voice = Mob of Emus CH2 processed by Beads & Disting(Tape delay) sequenced by Mob of Emus CH4 slew limiter A-184-1 Echoed arpeggio voice = Mob of Emus CH1 processed by Hector(Delay) sequenced by Flame Chord Machine clock & program changed by Steppy enveloped by MATHS Synth lead voice 1 = Hector(Plaits clone) processed by Hector(Delay) sequenced by Hector(Note sequencer triggered by Steppy) Synth lead voice 2 = Hector(Plaits clone) sequenced by Hector(Note sequencer triggered by Steppy) modulation & enveloped by Hector(ADSR) Synth lead voice 3 = Ensemble Oscillator modulation from Mob of Emus CH6 & MATHS sequenced by Flame C-3mk2 Piano loop voice = Volca Sample Master clock = Volca Sample(divided by Steppy)
"Thank you for watching! Here are the simple patch notes, a list of the gear, and more information.
https://wac-lounge.bandcamp.com
Instagram
/ wac_lounge
Reverse piano voice = Reel to reel(SONY TC-4860) Echoed Piano voice = Reel to reel processed by Beads Synth lead voice = Ensemble Oscillator modulation & sequenced by Flame C-3mk2 Sine wave lead voice = Mob of Emus CH1 sequenced by Mob of Emus CH3 triggered by Steppy slew limiter = MATHS Sine wave voice loop = Mob of Emus CH2 processed by Disting(delay clocked by Steppy) sequenced by Mob of Emus CH4 triggered by Steppy Echoed pitch bending voice = Rings processed by A-120VCF1 & Echoz sequenced by 2hp Arp triggered by Steppy modulation & enveloped by MATHS & Mob of Emus CH5 Master clock = Mob of Emus CH6 (divided by Steppy)
"We travel California Interest 210 west and north from Pasadena to its western terminus with I-5 just south of Newhall (Santa Clarita). We start on the California 710 stub freeway (the northernmost end of the unconstructed I-710 through Alhambra and Pasadena), which feeds in into I-210 west through Pasadena, the town of La Canada Flintridge, and the northernmost sections of Los Angeles terminating at I-5 just before it's junction with California Highway 14. This scenic route passes through the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, and we also pass California Highway 2 and Highway 118 along the way.
Original music by Amanda Chaudhary, featuring the following instruments:
Minimoog (1979 model, fully restored)
Cherry Audio CR-78 drum machine and Sines
Strymon Starlab
UAD Electra 88
Arturia Mellotron V and Pigments
Morphor Plectrum Karlplus-Strong module
Rossum Electro-music Morpheus Z-plane filter
East West Fab Four (bass), Hollywood Orchestral Woodwinds (contrabassoon), Fantasy Brass (Wagner Tubas)
AudioThing GongAmp and Reels
"We explore the Plectrum module from Belgium-based Morphor, and demonstrate all of its features. The Plectrum is an all-analog implementation of the Karplus-Strong algorithm for plucked string sounds. It uses a BBD 'bucket bridge' delay, and a one-pole low-pass filter to create the algorithm's all-important feedback loop. In this demo, we introduce the algorithm and show how the different knobs and CV sources affect aspects of the sound. We also try out the advanced 'loop extender' feature that allows us to add other modules into the feedback loop of the Karplus-Strong system.
00:00 Introduction 00:14 The Karplus-Strong plucked string algorithm 01:02 Overview of the Morphor Plectrum 01:59 Basic functions and controls (feedback, color, pitch) 04:45 Using different trigger signals and noise bursts 05:59 CV input options 08:55 Loop Extender with Rossum Electro-Music Morpheus Z-plane filter 10:48 Loop Extender with Metasonix R54 Supermodule VCO/VCF 12:36 Demo with Make Noise Rene driving the Plectrum 14:01 Conclusion
"Spectral processors are hot these days thanks to the Spectraphon and the mighty 296T. It's easy to skip the Rossum Panharmonium and I got many questions like 'how does it compare...' So I checked a few Chris Meyers Learning Modular videos and many I don't remember. What I heard was pure magic. It's been quite an investment again, especially with the Morpheus.
This is a 'first patch' video so there's not much explaining and too much exploring. I simply don't have the time for a deep dive during #jamuary2024 but it's a perfect opportunity to share the experience of learning by tweaking knobs. I started recording/shooting around noon today, and I am happy I can post it before midnight so it's a genuine Day 23. I may have to shoot something simple tomorrow. Or maybe I'll do the dreaded Strega multi sample that will break reality in two."
"We travel the length of San Francisco from the southern neighborhoods to the northern edge along the Bay. The ride starts on the San Jose Avenue expressway into the Mission District where we follow Guerrero Street to its northern end on Market Street. After crossing Market, we continue north on Laguna through Hayes Valley, the Western Addition, Japantown, over the hill in Pacific Heights, and down into the Marina District. At the end of Laguna, we wind our way through main streets of the Marina to arrive at the Presidio of San Francisco within sight of the Golden Gate Bridge.
00:00 Introduction and Map 00:10 San Jose Avenue expressway 02:03 Guerrero Street (Mission District) 05:14 Laguna Street (Hayes Valley) 07:52 Japantown on Laguna 08:25 Pacific Heights on Laguna - spectacular hills and views 09:54 Marina District on Laguna 10:51 Marina District on Bay Street, Fillmore Street, and Marina Blvd 13:16 The Presidio of San Francisco
This ride includes two original pieces of music. From the beginning to Market Street is a new track featuring: G Calvin Weston on drums (soundscaperecordinglab.com) Big Fish Audio Grindhouse Universal Audio UAD Electra 88 Cherry Audio Mercury 6, Elka-X, Pro Soloist, Sines, Stardust 201 EastWest Ministry of Rock 2 and Hollywood Pop Brass Arturia CMI V, Delay Brigade Metasonix RK5 Rossum Electro-Music Morpheus Make Noise Maths Buchla Red Panel 158 and 156m AudioThing Wires
From Market Street to the end is an extended version of "Broadway" track featuring: G Calvin Weston on drums Crank Strugeon Pocket Gamelan Strymon StarLab reverb module Octave CAT and Behringer CAT synthesizers Arturia Modular V Korg modwave Arturia B3 V Arturia Wurli V2 and V3 EastWest Fab Four (Bass), Bösendorfer Piano, and Hollywood Brass"
"We’re just hours away from The Evolution of Modular Synthesis, available by livestream and in-person at Citizen Vinyl in downtown Asheville, NC starting at 7 p.m. ET.
Modular synthesis educator, musician, and inventor of vector synthesis Chris Meyer (Learning Modular, Alias Zone) and legendary synthesizer pioneer, innovator, and E-mu co-founder Dave Rossum (E-mu Systems, Rossum Electro-Music) will discuss the history and modern resurgence of modular synthesis with the Bob Moog Foundation Executive Director Michelle Moog-Koussa.
Between discussions, Meyer will perform music from his project, Alias Zone, which merges world music sounds with the limitless sonic possibilities of modular synthesis.
Tickets are $20 for entry at Citizen Vinyl, or pay-what-you-can starting at $10 for the livestream. We welcome our global supporters — the livestream will be available for 72 hours after the event for all ticket holders.
"At NAMM 2023, Sonic State caught up with Dave Rossum, the founder of Sound Semiconductor, to discuss the company's exciting developments. Sound Semiconductor is a development from SSM, a company that designed synthesizer chips for the first Prophets in the early 1970s. SSM went on to produce chips for professional audio and was later acquired by Analog Devices. In 2016, Rossum, along with Marco Alpert and a little bit of seed capital from Universal Audio, started Rossum Electro Music. At NAMM, they met Dan Parks, who used to run SSM, and talked about the idea of resurrecting the classic SSM chips. Six months later, they started Sound Semiconductor, which includes some resurrections of the classic SSM chips and some new ideas.
Rossum explained that the analog chips give instruments their own unique character, which digital processing cannot achieve. Analog chips have variations from unit to unit, and the designer's job is to make those variations as small as possible while allowing those variations to give instruments their own individual character. Analog distortions are also natural, making them more appealing to the ears than digital algorithms that give aliasing, and Dave told us he finds designing analog chips to be more artistic and enjoyable than designing digital ones.
"A ride along the eastern edge of Manhattan via the FDR Drive. We start at Third Avenue in the Bronx, cross the Third Avenue Bridge into Manhattan and merge onto the Harlem River Drive. At the RFK (Triboro) Bridge, the Harlem River Drive becomes the FDR Drive, which we follow to lower Manhattan until the Brooklyn Bridge. Along the way, we observe the skyline on either side of the East River, and pass several notable landmarks.
Original music by Amanda Chaudhary Drums by G Calvin Weston (soundscaperecordinglab.com) Keyboards and Electronics by Amanda Chaudhary.
Synthesizers and other instruments include: Arturia MiniFreak Arturia Stage 73, Mini V, Piano V, Mellotron V Cherry Audio GX-80 and Stardust 201 Tape Echo Strymon Starlab Synthesis Technology E350 Morphing Terrarium Rossum Electro-music Morpheus Buchla Red Panel 158 and 156m 4MS Spectral Multiband Resonator Dreadbox 8-stage Phaser EastWest Fab Four, Hollywood Brass, Stormdrum 2 AudioThing Wires
"WMD OSD (OR/SUM/DIF) was released earlier this year and although it's a tiny 4 HP utility, it can be used to make some really cool, deep modulations with envelopes and LFOs.
In this video, Alex walks through creating some unique deep house style chord samples for the Rossum Electro-Music Assimil8or by modulating a rather simple chord sound with two envelopes and one LFO all at the same time with OSD's analog OR function.
Logic in Eurorack modular synthesizers can be confusing and intimidating, but it's really rather simple. This video shows the best way to combine multiple CV signals to create unique textures that can then be used in a performance or recording setting."
"Talking Synths is a weekly podcast where Syntaur's crew chats about all manner of synthology. In this special episode of Talking Synths, Sam Mims sits down with one of the most important synth designers to ever walk this planet, Dave Rossum. Together, Sam and Dave discuss the history of E-mu Systems, what got Dave into the field of engineering, and the new Rossum Electro-Music SP1200."
