Kijimi Mk2 by Black Corporation | Overview + Explorations

video upload by Sarah Belle Reid

"A walkthrough and demo of the Kijimi Mk2 made by Black Corporation. Kijimi is an 8-voice analog polyphonic synthesizer with polyphonic aftertouch and MPE capability.

In this video we’ll take a look at everything that’s inside Kijimi and how it all works, and I’ll share some of my favorite approaches to using Kijimi as an interactive instrument for live performance and as an experimental sound design tool. And of course, I’ll also share lots of sounds and patches along the way."

TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 Intro & Musical Demos
2:14 Sound Generation in Kijimi
12:05 Kijimi's VCF
15:03 Filter Self-Oscillation Tricks
17:35 Modulation in Kijimi
18:47 Envelope Generators
22:55 Portamento & Glissando
24:25 LFOs
27:25 Modulation Matrix
37:17 MPE
40:47 Extra Fun (& Nerdy) Tricks
47:58 Arpeggiator

"Unwound" - Modular Synth, Voice, MaxMSP Live Performance

video upload by Sarah Belle Reid

"This is a live performance of a semi-improvised piece called 'Unwound', for voice, Eurorack modular synthesizer, and MaxMSP, that explores experimental vocal processing techniques, sample mangling, and chaotic synth patching.

Everyone who is a 'Member' in my Patreon community will receive this track as a free download. www.patreon.com/sarahbellereid

You can also stream/download the music from my Bandcamp page (thank you for your support!):"

Introducing Moog Messenger | Synth Performance by Lisa Bella Donna

video upload by Moog Music

CLICK FOR MORE »

Make Noise Presents MultiMod

video upload by MAKEN0ISE

0:00 Cold Open
0:43 Title Sequence
1:15 Introducing MultiMod!
2:18 Module Description
2:54 Tony Talks MultiMod
4:21 Controls Overview
8:03 Building The Team
10:42 Read Shapes and Hold
13:03 The Power Of The Hardware
16:04 LFO Shapes
17:49 From One Control Signal… We Create Many
18:44 Read Shape Patch Examples
22:56 Going Into The Unknown
24:22 Outro

Make Noise MultiMod | Overview & Explorations

video upload by Sarah Belle Reid

"A walkthrough of Make Noise’s newest Eurorack module, MultiMod, a multi-function modulation utility—with a few tricks up its sleeve.

This video contains a module overview, demo and patch tutorials. We’ll start with a panel tour of the MultiMod, and then dive into different patch examples that use MultiMod as a multi-LFO tool and a CV processor. I'll also share some "extended techniques" (ways of using MultiMod that extend beyond its intended use case), and demonstrate some ideas for using it to generate and process sound in unusual ways."

This is Make Make Noise Multimod: From One Comes Many

video upload by Red Means Recording Modular

00:00 intro
00:36 what is multimod?
07:38 shapes in action
13:43 one voice, much modulation
18:29 driving quantizers
22:05 v/o through multimod
28:09 noise through multimod
30:16 oscillator sequence through multimod
35:49 ambient audio manipulation
42:30 multimod as rhythm generator
48:00 unlocked polyrhythmic sequencing
51:13 merp merp merp merp merp
54:27 audio processing final jam

With MultiMod...from one control signal, we create many.

MultiMod represents a new approach to complex modulations: it takes a single control signal and copies it 8 times, additionally modifying those copies by weighted adjustment of their relative phase and speed. The result is a flock of related modulation signals, all derived from the same single input.

Phase sets the spacing of the signal copies in time, weighted by channel, with each progressive channel getting more out of phase from the original Signal and from each other. Spread allows for varispeeding the copies by different amounts, with each getting progressively faster or slower than the original Signal. Time determines the range of time captured at the input and therefore also the depth of modulation across copies of the input signal when Phase and Spread are manipulated. MultiMod also includes Tempo, Hold, and Reset features, and a variety of Read Shapes for temporal rearrangement of input signals.

When the input is not patched, MultiMod generates an LFO that is copied eight times and manipulated in the same ways.

MultiMod is built on a brand new DSP hardware developed for the New Universal Synthesizer System. It offers eight high resolution outputs, with signal input and output ranges approaching the upper limits of the analog eurorack modular system. All I/O is capable of a 20V range at +/-10V, greatly exceeding the typical 0-5V CV input ranges on typical digital modules.

Features

Generate vari-speeded, phase modulated copies of any modulation signal.
Dramatically control 8 CVs with just 3 fully modulatable parameters.
Multiple unique read shapes for varying traversal through copied signals
Tempo/Reset inputs and Clock output for temporal system integration
Hold feature for looping captured signals
Ultra-Wide 20V p-p I/O ranges approach analog maximums of the eurorack system
Full TechniColor, Maximum Blinkenlights
Calibrated to accurately pass critical control signals such as quantized pitch CV
Internally generated signals for “LFO mode” when nothing is patched to the Signal Input.

Specifications
Width: 10hp
Max depth (incl power cable): 39mm
Power:
195mA @+12V
10mA @-12V
MSRP: $349

https://www.makenoisemusic.com/module...

Buchla, Make Noise, & A History of Spectral Animation in Synthesizers

video upload by Sarah Belle Reid

"A historical and technical deep dive into the synthesizer designs and ideas that influenced the development of the Make Noise x Soundhack Spectraphon, featuring excerpts from an interview with Tom Erbe.

Spectraphon is an oscillator for Eurorack modular systems that allows you to analyze and resynthesize sonic characteristics of OTHER sounds, using those characteristics to create unique waveforms and timbres…with the ability to continuously transform them into something new. It’s Erbe’s unique take on the concept of a harmonic oscillator—inspired by some of instrument designer Donald Buchla’s work from the 1970s and 1980s.

Erbe and Make Noise specifically name three Buchla instruments as important inspirations: the Model 259 Programmable Complex Waveform Generator, the Model 296 Programmable Spectral Processor, and the Touché, a hybrid keyboard instrument developed in collaboration between Don Buchla and David Rosenboom.

This video unpacks each of these instruments in turn, examining how their innovative approaches to timbre control and spectral manipulation influenced Spectraphon’s design.

Special thanks to Tom Erbe for sharing his insights on Spectraphon’s development and its relationship to these historic Buchla instruments, and to the Buchla Archives for providing images.

Buchla Touché footage made possible by the Buchla Archives—check out Buchla Archives website: https://www.buchlaarchives.com/

Watch my Spectraphon Overview + Exploration video:" [posted here]

Elektron Introduces New Elektron Digitone II

An Introduction video upload by Elektron

"Machine By Machine"

Introducing Digitone II

video upload by Elektron

"We are delighted to announce the release of Digitone II. Pull your sound through the prism and into a spectrum of dazzling tones and timbres. Get set for the reimagining of our box of FM Synthesis into a multi-machine, many-realm-reaching wonder, taking the evolution of Digitone synthesis and sequencing to new heights. Digitone II is a multitimbral polyphonic synth framed in a modular workflow. Its 16 tracks can be used for any of its synth machine - Wavetone, Swarmer, FM Tone and FM Drum - or for MIDI, with 16 voices available across those selectable synth machines. On top of this flexible flavor, there’s also an abundance of filters, an expanded Elektron sequencer, playability unlocking goodness, a powerful note editor, and a whole bunch more. The rabbit hole is deeper and more magnificent than ever imagined.

Pricing on elektron.se is 999 USD/1049 EUR." Check with dealers on the right for availability.

Digitone II — At A Glance

video upload by Elektron

"Digitone II is a 16 track, 16 voice polyphonic synth capable of unleashing dimensions of exciting sonic possibilities, all framed in a modular workflow. There are multiple forms of digital synthesis to explore, offering deep sound-sculpting satisfaction. Here, Hissquiet and Jeremiah Chiu take turns guiding your eyes and ears around the awesome new features and exceptional sounds on offer.

Digitone II is available to purchase from the Elektron website or from retailers carrying the Elektron range of products. Pricing on elektron.se is 999 USD/1049 EUR."

Check with dealers on the right for availability.

User videos (use the player controls to skip around):



Playlist:
Digitone II - a look into a Preset Pattern - tubesockor
Elektron Digitone II (it is fun + can get really weird). - Sarah Belle Reid
Review: DIGITONE II vs OG Digitone // Everything new in Elektron's Digitone 2 // Detailed tutorial - loopop
DIGITONE 2 - First Track! - True Cuckoo

Details:


16 track polyphonic digital synthesizer
Pull your sound through the prism and into a spectrum of dazzling tones and timbres. Digitone II unleashes layers of exciting sonic possibilities. Get set for the reimagining of our box of FM Synthesis into a multi-machine, many-realm-reaching wonder, taking the evolution of Digitone synthesis and sequencing to new heights.

Transcend tonal realms
Digitone II is a multitimbral polyphonic synth framed in a modular workflow. Its 16 tracks can be used for any of its synth machines or for MIDI, with 16 voices available across those selectable synth machines. On top of this flexible flavor, there’s also an abundance of filters, an expanded Elektron Sequencer, playability unlocking goodness, a powerful note editor, and a whole bunch more. The rabbit hole is deeper and more magnificent than ever imagined.

Machine by machine
Synth machines are your route to generating sound with Digitone II. There are four synth machines to play with, each with their own character and every single one stuffed with tweakability.

Dive into Wavetone, a fresh take on the classic 2-oscillator synthesizer. Morph between oscillator shapes, add phase distortion and oscillator modulation, or define with precision the flavor of your noise. Take the buzz to the next level with Swarmer. A super saw-in-origin cluster offering lots of waveform control across the swarm. Pick your shape, combine detune and noise modulation controls, and reach rich, complex textures. FM Tone is the original Digitone FM synthesis engine, and still capable of twisting your sound in all manner of delicious directions. Unleash FM Drum, with heaps of percussive flexibility and fine-tuning on offer to craft your own smacks and booms, and everything in between. And despite the name, capable of melodic magic too.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Sarah Belle Reid meets Gliss

video upload by Bela Platform

"This video is the third in a series in which we get Gliss in the hands of artists we deeply respect. In this video the Canadian-born musician and educator, Sarah Belle Reid, explores the timbral possibilities of Gliss by using it extensively as a non-linear waveshaper.

Check out our blog for the full story: https://blog.bela.io/sarah-belle-reid..."

Enter the Moog Labyrinth

video upload by Moog Music

Labyrinth | Moog Demo Library
video uploads by Moog Music

User videos:



Playlist (use the player controls to skip around):

1. Perfect Circuit: Moog Semi-Modular Comparison 2024: Labyrinth, Mother-32, & More (feat. Sarah Belle Reid)
2. Sarah Belle Reid: Moog Labyrinth Semi-Modular Synth: Overview + Explorations
3. Loopop: Moog Labyrinth // A Synth that’s a Generative Idea Machine // 13 patch ideas, review & tutorial
4. mylarmelodies: Moog Labyrinth Demo: Explanation & Generative Techno Jams
5. Reverb: Exploring Generative Synthesis with the Moog Labyrinth
6. Jorb: Moog Labyrinth // Generative Synthesis At It's Best
7. SUTURE SOUND: A ton of Moog Labyrinth sounds (no talking)
8. Bonedo Synthesizers: MOOG Labyrinth Sound Demo (no talking) - Preset Sheets
9. Limbic Bits: MOOG Labyrinth Sound Demo (no talking): 6 Improvisations on the Labyrinth
10. Starsky Carr: Moog Labyrinth // 3 Minute Manual + Full Review & Demo

AN UNEXPECTED PATH FORWARD

Labyrinth introduces a classic West Coast sound into the Mother Ecosystem experience rich analog synthesizer history in both surprising and recognizable sonic textures. Two generative sequencers bring to life sounds that bloom over time, letting you control their evolution and scale, then play them off of each other for striking polymetric melodies.

With parallel analog signal paths, this adventurous instrument shines when adding color to the steady backdrop of a drum pattern or bassline.

GENERATIVE SEQUENCER
The beating heart of Labyrinth is a robust dual sequencer, which uses chance calculations to generate two unique eight-step paths which twist and curve around one another.

SONIC WANDERING
A parallel voice processing path with a voltage-controlled blending allows you to morph sounds over time.

VOLTAGE-CONTROLLED WAVEFOLDER
A fresh interpretation of the Moog sound via a voltage-controlled wavefolder. Two oscillators drive duophonic melodic counterpoints, metallic FM tones, and analog synthetic drums.

Moog's semi-modular lineup expands to include the Labyrinth, a generative synthesizer that brings you two parallel sequencers, two oscillators, and endless possibilities. Based around a core sine VCO and a triangle Mod VCO, these sound sources have independent level controls, as well as a Ring Mod and Noise level control that all feed a saturating mixer that can add a touch or grit. From the mixer, we have the switchable option to go into a voltage controllable wave folder then into a classic Moog filter, the opposite with our filter going into the wave folder, or have both of these run in parallel.

The heart of the Labyrinth is the sequencer section. A dual 8-step sequencer gives you interactive quantized melodies that can affect various parameters, based on the labeled trimmers. These sequencers send out both notes CV and triggers and with a Trig Mix you can get rhythmic interplay that is quite satisfying. Each sequencer has a Length settings and a Bit Shift when adjusts the position of activated steps. The Bit Flip and Corrupt parameters present gives you more randomness and serendipity allowing you to create evolving patterns.

As with all of their semi-modular synths, Moog gives you access to 32 patch point patchbay with 12 outputs and 20 inputs. This gives you the option to self-patch and integrate it into your existing Eurorack ecosystem. Moog's Labyrinth is the perfect expansion to your existing system or a great starting point as an entry to modular synthesis, especially for those who are looking to get expressive rhythmic patterns quickly.

LABYRINTH FEATURES

- Parallel generative analog synthesizer

- Two oscillators, a sine-based and triangle-based

- Switchable wave folder to filter, filter to wave folder, or parallel processing

- Diode-transistor hybrid wavefolder with smooth Fold and Bias control

- Morphable Low pass to Band pass 2-pole filter

- Adjustable decay time for both decay envelopes

- Blend Sequence 1 and Sequence 2 triggers for complex rhythms

- Each sequencers has options to adjust length, per-step adjustments, adjustable randomness (Corrupt), and shifting the pattern on-the-fly

- Quantizable pitches to 16 different scales

- 32-Point patch bay, 12 outs 20 ins

CLICK FOR MORE »

Voltage Lab 2 by Pittsburgh Modular: Overview + Experiments

video upload by Sarah Belle Reid

"A demo and walkthrough of the new analog modular synthesizer Voltage Lab 2, by Pittsburgh Modular. The Voltage Lab 2 is a conceptual extension of Pittsburgh Modular’s 2019 instrument, the Voltage Research Laboratory—adding in new sound generation capabilities along with expanded sequencing and hands-on interaction control.

In this video I’ll go over what Voltage Lab 2 is, share a tour of the instrument, and jump into a bunch of demos showcasing some melodic, rhythmic, noisy, and experimental sounds."

TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 Introduction
00:41 What's the Voltage Lab 2?
02:51 Tour of Voltage Lab 2
15:43 Waveshaping & Feedback Experiments
20:11 Ring Mod, Crush, & Sync
26:47 Touch Controller Experiments
33:05 More Patch Demos

"Sarah Belle Reid is a Canadian performer-composer, active in the fields of electroacoustic trumpet performance, intermedia arts, music technology, and improvisation.

www.sarahbellereid.com"

New Moog Spectravox - Semi-Modular Analog Spectral Processor

Moog Spectravox | Jamie Lidell | Awake & Alive video upload by Moog Music

Follow-up to the previous version.

"Experience a captivating musical performance featuring Jamie Lidell's "Awake and Alive," an original composition showcasing the Moog Spectravox. The performance features Aaron Steele on percussion and Luke Schneider on pedal steel.

The Spectravox, Moog's latest semi-modular addition, is a groundbreaking tool for shaping sound. This analog spectral processor, built around a 10-band filter bank, generates lively drones and colorful tonal sweeps, enhancing external sounds with resonant depth and psychedelic spectral movement. With a microphone connected, Spectravox transforms into a 10-band analog vocoder, featuring innovative integrated modulation across all filters. Pushing the boundaries of vocoder and filter bank technology, Spectravox offers immense flexibility as an instrument and signal processor, complete with a comprehensive patch bay for seamless integration into studios of any size."



Playlist:
The Moog Spectravox is a Vocoder, a Spectral Processor and Much More - Reverb
Moog Spectravox is in production! // Review, tutorial and 10 patch ideas - loopop
Moog Spectravox: Overview + Explorations - Sarah Belle Reid
Spectravox x Subharmonicon - A Brief Explainer - Noir Et Blanc Vie
Moog Spectravox - Accidental Arpeggios feat. Moog Subharmonicon - Noir Et Blanc Vie
Moog Spectravox Sound Demo (Machine Talking) - Limbic Bits
Moog Spectravox Sound Demo (no human talking) - Bonedo Synthesizers



The Newest Member of the Moog Family

Spectravox, the newest member of the Moog semi-modular family, is a groundbreaking tool for sculpting sound. An analog spectral processor based around a 10-band filter bank, Spectravox creates lively drones and colorful tonal sweeps on its own and adds resonant depth and psychedelic spectral movement to any external sound. Hook up a microphone and Spectravox becomes a 10-band analog vocoder with innovative integrated modulation of all of its filters. An exploration and expansion of the topology of the vocoder and filter bank, Spectravox is a highly flexible instrument and signal processor with a comprehensive patch bay for integration into studios of all sizes.

A Groundbreaking Tool for Scultpting Sound

Synthesists have delighted in playing with the spectrum of sound since the Moog 907 Fixed Filter Bank appeared in the 1960s, creating lush vowel tones and multicolored timbral animation with hands-on level control of each frequency band of a sound. Unlike earlier fixed filter banks, however, the unique filters of Spectravox are no longer fixed in place and will jointly shift around the frequency space, allowing for the creation of otherworldly voltage-controlled spectral animation and vibrant phaser-like sweeps. With 10 filters whose variable resonance can morph from soft precision to shimmering choral effects, Spectravox reshapes the sounds you love into surprising new forms and brings a new world of sonic possibilities to your studio.

10-Band Analog Vocoder

Spectravox is a fascinating standalone sculptable synthesizer voice thanks to its built-in carrier sound source of a thick analog Moog oscillator and white noise generator. With its combo XLR/jack program input, Spectravox becomes a fully featured 10-band vocoder with a secondary filter bank for analyzing the spectral makeup of incoming sounds. In VOCODER mode its 10 analysis filters map the timbral characteristics of any external sound onto any other sound you can imagine. Shape the warm analog oscillator of Spectravox with the dynamics of your voice, or use a drum machine to animate guitar chords in a mesmerizing broadband percussive space.

Electronic Instruments for the Musician

Spectravox uses the pioneering vocoding work of Bob Moog and Wendy Carlos in the late 1960s as its inspiration—work which was based on Homer Dudley's original designs from the 1930s and which was used to prominent effect in Stanley Kubrick's 1972 film A Clockwork Orange. Innovating further from these early designs, Spectravox uses 10 state-variable filters for its filter bank, all 10 of which are capable of being shifted with its internal triangle wave LFO or external control voltage. With the ability to emphasize vowel sounds via the Hiss and Buzz functionality of the Moog 16 Channel Vocoder, Spectravox is both a major step forward for analog filter banks and a loving exploration of early music technology history.

Scramble the Frequency Spectrum

Scramble the frequency spectrum and create wonderfully unpredictable textures with patch points for each filter in the filter bank and included patch cables. Add analog warmth and subtle phasing to digital synthesizers and sound sources. Integrate Spectravox with other Moog semi-modular instruments or Eurorack modules with an extensive patch bay providing control over almost all of its parameters. Spectravox is a boundary-pushing instrument that invites you to explore creative new ways of shaping and sculpting sound.

Introducing Vongon: Replay // Polyphonic Synth & Muti-Mode Arpeggiator

video upload by MAS Distro

Update: new demos added below.

"Join us as we embark on a sonic journey with Replay, a new polyphonic synthesizer and multi-mode arpeggiator from Vongon. First up we test its prowess in the realm of synthwave - spoiler alert: it excels! In the latter half, we delve into the interface and its versatile capabilities complete with an immersive sound exploration, unleashing the arpeggiator and tweaking various parameters for a mesmerizing experience. Video and music production crafted by DeadMidi.

Gear Used:
Vongon Replay Polyphonic Synth/Arpeggiator
Vongon Polyphrase Stereo Echo
Vongon Ultrasheer Stereo Pitch Vibrato & Reverb"

Vongon Replay!

video upload by Fireghosting

"Replay is a six-voice polyphonic synthesiser and a little window into synth heaven. Lush pads, tiny plinks, snappy arpeggios, warbling melodies, resonant filters with midi connectivity and a sleek web interface!"

Vongon Replay Virtual Analog Synth | Overview + Exploration

video upload by Sarah Belle Reid

"A demo and walkthrough of the new polysynth Replay, by Vongon. Replay is a 6-voice polyphonic synthesizer with a compact form factor that takes inspiration from classic poly synths from the 1980s, like the Roland Juno series + the Korg Polysix.

This video includes an overview of what Replay is and how it works, along with a number of sound examples demonstrating Replay on its own and in combination with FX pedals, to create a wide range of sounds from classic synth leads, pads, and arpeggios to more experimental textures and noisy sound worlds."

TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 Intro
02:45 Replay Overview & Tour
17:03 Musical Demo
19:09 Filter Experiments on Replay
23:50 Exploring the Arpeggiator
28:00 Combining Replay with FX

Vongon Replay: This synth rules!

video upload by Matt Lowery

"Today we take the beautiful Replay by Vongon out for a spin and also have a conversation about synthesis basics in honor of my five year synth-a-versary. Vongon really hit it out of the park with this instrument and--whether it's your first synth or your 10th-- there's a lot here to love."

VONGON REPLAY Polyphonic Synth & Arpeggiator | Can I write a synth-pop track with it?!

video upload by Ambient Endeavors

"Man, I just love gear that makes you approach writing differently. That reminds you how fun it can be to find new sounds and feels, explore new ways of composing. And today, the new Vongon Electronics REPLAY is doing that for me - a super fun, approachable, compact polyphonic synth and arpeggiator."

via Perfect Circuit

"The Replay is the first synthesizer offering from boutique pedal designers Vongon, offering a six-voice virtual analog sound engine with multi-mode arpeggiator. Inspired by beloved keyboard synths of the early 80s like the Roland Juno and Korg Polysix, the Replay faithfully delivers warm and lush vintage timbres in a compact package that drips with modern aesthetics and utility. In Replay, Vongon has struck an impressive balance between scope of features, user experience, and overall sound quality. The result is an instrument that sounds wonderfully rich and nostalgia-laden, with an interface that is easy to understand - perfectly approachable for a beginning synthesist, yet deep enough to inspire veteran wigglers to explore the edges of its capabilities.

Replay's front panel is incredibly straightforward, with simple controls for its primary functions conveniently accessible. Additional options are selected via the "secret menu" alt functions. At the heart of Replay's sound engine are multiple selectable waveforms for its primary oscillator, with ramp, square, triangle, and sine modes. Noise amount, pulse width modulation, and LFO pitch modulation offer further timbral manipulations before passing to the four-pole, low-pass filter. Highly resonant and warm, the filter includes modulation depth controls from the primary envelope, keyboard tracking, and the LFO. The VCA features options for maximum amplitude and modulation source. An organic and responsive ADSR envelope and the on-board LFO round out this straightforward voice, with flexible modulation routing options between the main controls and alt functions.

The multimode arpeggiator on the Replay opens up a variety of fun and engaging options for controlling the synthesizer voice. Latch and keyed modes, in addition to the three poly modes available on the alt functions, offer a variety of ways for creating snappy and spiraling arpeggios and fuzzy, morphing pads. Up/Down, order, and random modes provide further ways to organize pitch material. The alt functions allow the LFO to be clocked by the ARP speed, creating rhythmically modulated phrases that are a joy to get lost in.

All in all, the Vongon Replay delivers a premium virtual analog experience that feels streamlined and purpose-built for getting beautiful analog sounds quickly. With plenty of depth in sound color and just the right amount of tricks up its sleeve to keep you immersed in music making rather than menu diving, the Replay is sure to become a go-to instrument for lush pads and other classic synth timbres. Its physical design is beautifully simple, and the responsive feel of its Cherry MX keys invite playful interaction that is hard to put down. Of course, the Replay is a lovely source for running through Vongon pedals, creating an instant synthwave or soundtrack machine paired with an Ultrasheer or Polyphrase. If you're needing a straightforward synth with limitless sonic charm, the Vongon Replay is a wonderful choice.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Exploring the 1st Buchla 100 Modular Synthesizer

video upload by Sarah Belle Reid

"This video is a historical, technical, and musical deep dive into the Buchla 100 Series Modular System at the Mills College Center for Contemporary Music. This instrument was the first voltage controllable modular synthesizer built by Don Buchla—it was delivered to the San Francisco Tape Music Center in the mid-1960s.

In this video we’ll start with a brief historical overview of the Buchla 100 Series Modular System and the San Francisco Tape Music Center. Then, we’ll unpack everything that’s inside the instrument module by module. Finally, I’ll share some of the quirks of this particular instrument, and lots of patch examples to illustrate its unique voice and character.

As I was getting to know this instrument, I tried to keep in mind the circumstances surrounding its development—the people who contributed to it, the time in which it emerged, and the state of electronic music at the time of its invention. These thoughts greatly inspired my approach to working with the instrument and are present throughout this video.

It’s a rare opportunity to be able to work with a historical instrument like this one. I have always been super inspired by Buchla’s work in general, but like many people have had few opportunities to work with his original instruments. Instead, much of my experience has been through newer instruments inspired by his designs. Being able to work closely with this instrument was an incredibly inspiring and clarifying experience that allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of Buchla’s own creative and technical development, as well as the multitude of music, modern modules, and instruments that have been inspired by his work.

Special thank you to Mills College for letting us spend a week in the electronic music studio working with the Buchla 100; to The Buchla Archives and Ryan Gaston for helping to put this video together; and also to all of the amazing folks in my Patreon community for your support in helping to bring educational projects like this one to life!

Learn more / join the waitlist for Learning Sound and Synthesis, my online modular synthesis and sound design class: https://www.soundandsynthesis.com

Join my Patreon community for behind-the-scenes content, unreleased music, and extended tutorials: sarahbellereid

Thank you to:
Mills College Center for Contemporary Music https://www.performingarts.mills.edu
The Buchla Archives https://www.buchlaarchives.com
Ryan Gaston (co-producing + filming) https://gastonsounds.com
Hainbach (tape slicing footage)

TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 Historical Overview: Buchla 100 + the San Francisco Tape Music Center
7:38 Mills Buchla 100 System Overview
14:27 Timbre in the Mills Buchla 100
18:29 Chaos in the Mills Buchla 100
21:52 Voltage Control Quirks
25:00 Sequencing Tactics: Triggered Segments
30:40 Sequencing Tactics: Extended Sequences
32:06 More Patches + Sounds
32:36 Ring Modulated Reverb Patch
34:40 Keyboard Chaos Patch
36:55 Gated Voice Patch
38:29 Wonky Drum Machine Patch
38:57 Triggered Gestures Patch
39:14 Transposed FM Sequence Patch
39:48 Bell Tones Patch
40:27 Touch Controlled Ratchet Patch
41:00 Sequenced Melodic Patch

Sarah Belle Reid is a performer-composer, active in the fields of electroacoustic trumpet performance, intermedia arts, music technology, and improvisation.

www.sarahbellereid.com"



"In the Spring of 2024, Reid spent a week at the Center for Contemporary Music at Mills College, where she worked closely with their original Buchla 100 modular synthesizer system. This specific instrument’s historical significance can’t be overstated. It was the very first voltage controllable modular synthesizer that the now-famous artist, inventor, and electronic musical instrument designer Donald Buchla built in the mid 1960s—indeed, one of the very first modular synthesizers altogether. In its time, this specific system has been used by countless inspiring and influential musicians, such as Pauline Oliveros, Morton Subotnick, Suzanne Ciani, Warner Jepson, and others.

The video begins with a brief historical overview of the Buchla 100 Series Modular System and the San Francisco Tape Music Center. Then, Reid unpacks everything that’s inside the instrument module by module, with sound demos and examples. Finally, she shares some of the unique quirks of the Mills Buchla 100 instrument, and patch examples of how the instrument can be used to create a wide range of music and sounds."

FEEDBACK by Ultraviolet Light

This one is in via Todd Barton who co-curated the release.

"Cassette label Ultraviolet Light is ecstatic to announce Feedback, a compilation of new works from Todd Barton, Dan Deacon, Dani Dobkin, Robert Aiki Aubrey Lowe, Doug Lynner, Toshimaru Nakamura, Sarah Belle Reid, Ryan Gaston, Jimmy Joe Roche, and Keith Fullerton Whitman. Each track utilizes some form of acoustic feedback, no-input mixing or recursive patching techniques as the central compositional principle.

Closed circuit and acoustic feedback have been prominent features within experimental electronic compositions for well over 50 years. In 1968 Steve Reich made extensive use of audio Feedback in his work “Pendulum Music”. David Tudor and Alvin Lucier incorporated feedback systems in many iconic compositions. Much of John Cage's interest and questions of noise and its relation to music could be seen as an extension of concepts explored when artists introduce feedback into their performances and recording. Arguably the most prolific and influential artist who integrated feedback into her compositions is the French composer Éliane Radigue.

Feedback is released as a 300-copy limited edition cassette with 4-color risograph printed artwork by Never Brush my Teeth. A digital download card is included with each cassette. 60% of the digital sales of the album will be donated to Earth Justice annually.

Curated by Todd Barton and Jimmy Joe Roche.

Available here on Bandcamp: https://ultravioletlight.bandcamp.com/album/feedback"

Perfect Circuit Artist Picks: Best Music Gear of 2023 Part 1

video upload by Perfect Circuit

Part 2 here

"2023 is soon drawing to a close—so, we're taking a look back at the year, and taking account of all of the weird and wonderful instruments that gave us some inspiration this year. Synthesizers, drum machines, and Eurorack modules to samplers and effects, this year had no shortage of inspiring instruments.

So, we reached out to some of our friends and content creators to fill us in on their year, asking one simple question: what was the coolest piece of gear you got this year? For some, that meant brand new releases, but for others, it meant sitting down and digging into classic instruments.

In this video, we hear from:
0:00 Mylarmelodies on the Nord Micro Modular
4:14 Sarah Belle Reid on the Fairfield Circuitry Roger That
8:07 Molten Music Tech on the Blukać Endless Processor
14:04 Liam Killen on the OXI One
17:24 Oora on the Meris MercuryX

Read more about all of this gear on our blog, Signal: https://bit.ly/3MEhpfE"

Sculpting Electricity with Landscape FM Noon

video upload by Sarah Belle Reid

"A deep dive into the Noon passive analog drum synth, designed by Landscape FM and Mystic Circuits. This video provides an in-depth walkthrough of Noon and how it works, along with a number of demos and patch examples of Noon in combination with hardware sequencers / touch controllers, Eurorack modular synths, acoustic instruments, and effects pedals. We’ll also go over what 'passive' means and how a passive synth like Noon works."

You can find additional Landscape Noon demos and pics in previous posts here.

Make Noise SoundHack Spectraphon | Overview & Exploration

video upload by Sarah Belle Reid

"A demo & walkthrough of the new Eurorack module Spectraphon, by Make Noise. Spectraphon is a dual complex oscillator that explores additive synthesis and resynthesis—allowing you to analyze and resynthesize characteristics of other sounds to create super unique timbres and waveforms.

This video includes an overview of what Spectraphon is and how it works, along with a number of patch examples demonstrating Spectraphon as a dual oscillator, and as an effects processor to create rich, resonator / spectral-blurring type sounds.

Spectraphon’s design is inspired by the Buchla 259 Programmable Complex Waveform Generator, the Buchla 296 Programmable Spectral Processor, and the Buchla Touché—taking parts of each of these designs and combining them into something new and unique."

Make Noise XPO Stereo Prismatic Oscillator: Overview + Explorations

video upload by Sarah Belle Reid

"A walkthrough of Make Noise’s newest Eurorack module, XPO, the Stereo Prismatic Oscillator. This video contains a module overview, demo and patch tutorials. We’ll start with a panel tour of the XPO, look at a bunch of different patching ideas for creating interesting stereo imaging effects, explore some patch examples that use XPO in combination with some of Make Noise’s other stereo modules, and finally discuss self-patching and feedback as a means of creating unstable, chaotic, & unpredictable stereo motion.

Learn more about the XPO from Make Noise: http://makenoisemusic.com/modules/xpo

TIMESTAMPS:
00:00 Intro + Video Overview
1:41 What is XPO?
5:44 XPO FM + Sync
9:59 Exploring the Stereo Field
19:48 XPO + Friends
25:27 Destabilizing the Stereo Image"

New Moog Mavis Semi-Modular Analog Desktop & Eurorack Synthesizer - Demos & Details

Priced at $349. The differentiator on this model is in the (East Coast) wavefolder - see video #6 & 12 in the playlist.

Update: New vids added.

Playlist (you can use the player controls to skip around):

1. Meet Mavis: A Moog Semi-Modular Analog Synthesizer - Moog Music
2. Moog MAVIS Semi-Modular Synthesizer: A Beginner’s Guide + Demos - Sarah Belle Reid
3. 7 Fun Patches With the New Moog Mavis
4. Moog Mavis Semi Modular Analog Synthesizer Voice : DIY Standalone Synth + Eurorack Module - Perfect Circuit
5. Moog Mavis Semi-Modular Synth: Overview and Demo with 5 Patch Presets - Patchwerks
6. First Look: Moog Mavis semi-modular synthesizer - Marcus Schmahl
7. Review: MOOG's MAVIS goes west! // 18 modular and wavefolding patch ideas explored // Full tutorial - loopop
8. Moog Mavis Is More Complex Than Its Size Suggests - HAINBACH
9. Everything Moog Mavis. - mylarmelodies
10. Moog Mavis Sound Demo (no talking) with Empress Reverb - Limbic Bits
11. Moog Mavis Sound Demo (no talking) - Bonedo Synthesizers
12. MAVIS - The New Moog Synthesizer 🐸 - PanicGirlVids

The press release:

"Meet Mavis: The Newest Addition to the Moog Semi-Modular Family
Mavis, a new all-analog semi-modular synthesizer, delivers legendary Moog sound in an affordable and compact musical machine. An inspiring and expressive instrument, Mavis offers serious value to anyone looking to learn synthesis or explore Moog sound in a new way.

This build-it-yourself synthesizer kit is ready to come to life as a powerful, patchable analog instrument, either mounted in a Eurorack case or on its own. Mavis's intuitive design allows for immediate musical exploration (no patching required) and is ready to guide your journey through the expansive world of modular synthesis through its flexible patch bay and accompanying educational resources.

Mavis features the first-ever Moog wavefolding circuit, allowing for additive synthesis to sit alongside traditional subtractive synthesis, unlocking sounds never heard before on a Moog instrument. Mavis offers incredible value through its clever collection of circuits, including two oscillators, full ADSR, a ladder filter, sample and hold, attenuators, mixer, mults, and much more, providing all the tools needed for creative patching and sound design.

Mavis delivers huge depth of sound to any creative looking to begin their journey into synthesis, expand their Moog ecosystem, or enhance their Eurorack setup."

Additional details & pics:


"As one of their most affordable semi-modular synthesizers to date, Moog's Mavis is equally at home as a standalone instrument, companion to the Mother series, or active member of a bustling Eurorack system. Shipped as an easily assembled kit, the excitement of putting together your own instrument gives way to a wonderful journey of sonic exploration.

Mavis packs all of the essential elements of a full synthesis voice into a compact package—oscillator, filter, ADSR envelope generator, and VCA—as well as some special surprises, including Moog's first-ever wavefolder! Best of all, everything is accessible through 24 patch points, overriding the internal normalled connections and putting Mavis's signal flow under your control.

As with all Moog's best synths, Mavis begins with an all-analog VCO, with this particular design featuring a blend control crossfading between sawtooth and pulse waveforms. PWM and pitch modulation are available with independent level controls, and may be shaped by the LFO, envelope generator, or a mix of the two. The hallmark of any Moog synth, the resonant lowpass ladder filter, makes an appearance on Mavis, and may be similarly controlled with the LFO and/or envelope with positive or negative polarity. As for the VCA, leave it wide open for drones or shape it with the ADSR for lush swells or snappy plucks.

Mavis subscribes to the same modular philosophies as Moog's legacy instruments as well as their hit Mother series. With the 24-point patch bay, additional elements are available to coax more interesting patches out of Mavis. Split and distribute signals with the multiple, inject uncertainty with the sample and hold, and balance audio or control signals with the DC-coupled mixer. Most surprising of all is the inclusion of a diode wavefolder—the first such design on any Moog instrument—bringing a touch of West Coast-style waveshaping into their world of traditionally subtractive designs.

Though Mavis can exist totally independently, it shines in collaboration with others. Place it on your desk alongside your other patchable instruments, or remove Mavis from its enclosure and mount it in a Eurorack case as a 44hp module for highly nested interactions. Mavis ships with a handful of patch cables, overlay sheets, and a protective plastic dust cover for when the instrument isn't in use. Whether you're just starting out or looking for a fully-featured Moog synth voice, Mavis delivers in spades.

MAVIS FEATURES

Fully analog semi-modular synthesizer
Easily assembled
24 patch points
VCO with sawtooth and pulse waveforms
PWM and frequency modulation
Resonant lowpass filter
4-stage ADSR envelope generator
Analog VCA
Utilities section includes mixer, multiple, sample and hold, and more
First-ever Moog wavefolder design
Onboard keyboard with scale and glide controls
May be removed from enclosure and mounted as a 44hp Eurorack module
Includes patch cables, patch sheets, dust cover, and assembly tools"

CLICK FOR MORE »

Acoustic Instruments with Modular Synths! with Sarah Belle Reid

video upload by MAKEN0ISE

"Join guest host Sarah Belle Reid for a deep exploration of techniques for using acoustic instruments with a modular synth!

The Morphagene Reel "Experimental Trumpet Sounds" can be downloaded here: https://freesound.org/people/makenois..."

https://www.sarahbellereid.com

ASM Hydrasynth Explorer: Making Noise in Nature

video upload by Sarah Belle Reid

"In this video I spend the day enjoying the outdoors and making some ambient and noisy patches on the new ASM Hydrasynth Explorer that are inspired by the world around me. I also share a technical comparison of the Hydrasynth Explorer, Hydrasynth Desktop, and Hydrasynth Keyboard units, along with my personal takeaways on the instruments."