The Master of Synthesizer Design : Axel Hartmann : From Inspiration to Iconic !

"Apr 11, 2025

The Master of Synthesizer Design : Axel Hartmann : From Inspiration to Iconic !

Hosted by Vin Curigliano of AAVIM Technology, I am joined by guest co-host Pete Brown of Microsoft, and special guest Axel Hartmann who has been the go to designer for some of the most iconic synthesizers of the last 35 years, and continues to be one of the leading designers in the field. Chances are, you have seen or played one of his designs.

We discuss Axel's history in music and technology, what lead him to follow the path to Industrial Design, and what motivated and inspired him to focus his attention and creativity, primarily in the area of musical instruments.

Starting with his early career at Waldorf that was initially in graphic design but expanded into the area of industrial design and the eventual design and development of the iconic Waldorf Wave synthesizer, as well as many other well-known and much-loved synthesizer designs for numerous other manufacturers.

We then cover a large number of his better-known designs, and get first-hand insights and behind the scenes details of what is actually involved in bringing these instruments to market.

Throughout, we dive into Axel's design philosophy and how he works in collaboration with the clients to bring the designs to life and to market. We navigate the highs, lows, hits, and misses over his career, and much, much more, with some great stories and laughs along the way."

Only 400 to 500 Hartmann Neurons built.

This one was sent my way via Soviet Space Child

WALDORF MICROWAVE XT (DEMO CD 1998)

video upload by Synthesizer Home

"Waldorf Microwave II/XT demo/promo CD, from Musikmesse Frankfurt 1998. Great tracks demonstrating the Waldorf Microwave synths! A truely great CD to listen to. Axel Hartmann designed the CD sleeve."

00:08 Track 1
02:16 Track 2
04:18 Track 3
06:33 Track 4
09:35 Track 5
13:16 Track 6
15:40 Track 7 (bonus track, not mentioned in the booklet)

This one is in via Soviet Space Child.

New Studio Electronics CODE Luxe Model Spotted at Buchla & Friends Event

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Studio Electronics (@studioelectronics)

This one is in via Soviet Space Child, who mentioned "It's a CODE synth with the addition of feedback and wave folder circuits."

Note it's currently not mentioned on the Studio Electronics site.

New Buchla 700FM Format Modular

video uploads by Gm Xe

This one is in via Soviet Space Child.

"Hi, I have been a buchla fan for a long time, and I have always been curious about buchla 700. I immediately bought the id 700 when it was available, which is really a great app. However, I like hardware instruments with intuitive operation. Thanks to my good friend kweiwen, who wrote the initial code for me, I opened this mysterious instrument. After half a year of learning and development, I finally completed this module. Although there are still some improvements to be made, I am very happy, the sound is really good, I try to make myself comfortable with it, so the design is based on personal habits.

The main program is written in max/msp, using daisyseed to implement gen ~ code burning. buchla700 is a very complex instrument, although it cannot be perfectly reproduced, I think half of the core content is there."

Playlist:

1. 700VOiCE Buchal format Walk through new Updated version introduction

Previous devlopement:

2. I made an fm module similar to buchla 700
3. Play note#1 new buchla format modular demo
4. 700_FM_Voice_Note4
5. 700voice upgrade test demo 1
6. 700 buchla format modular note#5



Additional details via Mod Wiggler

"I apologize for the delay; the new images and information are still being prepared. The images feature three modules: on the left, the 3U modules include the 700 expansion and 700 voice, while the 1U module on the right is an effects module that will be introduced separately later. Thank you for your patience!

In the realm of synthesizers, the nearly forgotten classic Buchla 700 is celebrated for its unique sound design. We are thrilled to introduce our tribute module, showcasing a distinctive 700 FM Voice module powered by re-optimized algorithms. With its intuitive interface, you can dive in effortlessly, whether you’re crafting intricate soundscapes or vibrant melodies. This module is designed to inspire creativity and unlock endless possibilities.

This module is a monophonic sound source featuring four variable waveform oscillators and six specialized algorithmic index amplifiers, creating complex modulation patterns with twelve algorithms. Each oscillator and index group can be individually controlled via CV inputs, with dedicated CV attenuation for each. It provides a dual-path mix output for Group A/B, enabling CV morphing, along with a separate output for channel B. Both A and B channels offer independent wave shapes and drift modulation. Each oscillator supports wave morphing between sine, saw, and square waveforms, with the option to expand using an additional 12 control knobs. Two OLED displays showcase configuration algorithm graphics and a dual-channel oscilloscope. The DA output is 48 kHz/24-bit, with finely tuned oscillator algorithms. Outputs are carefully calibrated through analog amplification circuits, fully compatible with Buchla-format CV modulation, and support 1.2 V/oct and MIDI input.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Analogue Solutions Introduces the TC5000 - ARP 2500 Inspired Synthesizer

video upload by sonicstate

"Tom's stand is hard to miss, always something massive and/or impressive to catch your attention ;-]

This year it's the turn of the TC5000, a synthesizer drawing inspiration from the ARP2500 with a patch matrix system along the lines of those he has developed since the Vostok. The TC5000 has a unique mix of circuits - compiled from years of development in products like the Fusebox and Colossus - and its user interface, for ease of patching across upper and lower matrices.

With a host of modules, including oscillators, filters, sequencers, and dual spring reverbs, Tom plans to provide a comprehensive package, with potential expansions through additional "wings" or systems.

Price is expected to be in the £22K range, available towards the end of the year"




This one is in via Soviet Space Child.

via Analogue Solutions:

"ANALOGUE PATCH PIN MATRIX SYNTH

This product is so new, we haven’t even finished this web page!

The selection of modules that will be configured in the final system will differ from the pre-production unit features in the current photographs.

WE ARE TAKING PRE-ORDERS NOW (DEPOSIT REQUIRED).
ETA TOWARDS THE END OF THE YEAR.

This is not an ARP2500 clone! TC5000 ustilises Analogue Solutions’ own circuits. Some are adapted from our other stunning synthesizers, like Leipzig, Telemark and Fusebox. Plus some new designs especially for this synthesizer.

TC5000 features two full width patch pin matrix panels that provide the same kind of UI experience that made the ARP2500 so incredible.

Using TC5000 for sounds design will give you a similar experience to the ARP. User interface is a very important aspect of sound design. It really isn’t all about the filter. How you interact with a synth is equally important. Different UI and working approaches means you will come up with patches you might otherwise not have come across using say, patch leads."

---

Additional systems based on the 2500:

CMS 2500
MOS-LAB 2500
Behringer 2500

Goat playing modular synth

video upload by thenervoussquirrel

"Synth modules available here: http://www.nervoussquirrel.com/modules"

This one is in via Soviet Space Child.

Moog Asheville Store Closes Shop

via @moogsynthesizers

"Since opening in 2011, the Moog Store has served as a public portal to the Moog factory, inviting passionate synthesists to come inside and experience the sonic capabilities of Moog first-hand, as well as have access to new electronic instruments and devices in person. Containing 60 years of revolutionary synthesizer technology, the Moog Store has been a destination for those who wish to create, explore, and be inspired.

As we prepare for the next chapter of Moog Music, the Moog Store will be closing its doors. Our factory will remain open, and our talented engineers will still be in there, hand-crafting the instruments that define us. Our shift away from brick-and-mortar sales allows us greater bandwidth to focus on researching and developing the next generation of synthesizers and support more classic Moog releases.

To those who have visited the store to explore our instruments, participate in our workshops and factory tours, and engage with our engineers and designers, we have the utmost gratitude. We encourage everyone to visit the Moogseum in downtown Asheville at 56 Broadway Street where Bob Moog’s legacy is carried forward through education and archive preservation. We too are committed to his legacy of innovation and excellence and look forward to sharing the work we have been doing with you all soon."

This one was spotted on We Rave You via Soviet Space Child.

New Moog Labyrinth Incoming

This one was spotted and sent in via Soviet Space Child.

PARRALEL GENERATIVE ANALOG SYNTHESIZER

Just the pics for now.

Also see the new Moog Spectravox.

CLICK FOR MORE »

1st FAUX HUNDRED Audio Demos

Fauxhundred · Fourchestra - Shasta Cults

Fauxhundred · Test program 1 - Shasta Cults

This one is in via Soviet Space Child.

See the FAUX HUNDRED label below for additional posts.

UDO Teases New Product for Superbooth

via UDO

"We’re excited to once again be at @superbooth_berlin next week! For the lucky ones who are going to be attending, come and see us at the usual booth (bungalow 🏡 ) B005."

This one is in via Soviet Space Child.

New Oberheim TEO-5 Incoming

This one is in via Soviet Space Child.

Just the pics for now, but you can cick on them and zoom in. Looks like a Take 5 meets OB-6.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Elektron Digitakt 2 Incoming

Update: new pics and details added below.

Update2: Official announcement with videos here.

This one is making the rounds. The big reveal may be coming tomorrow per the screenshot further below, sent my way via Soviet Space Child. .

Details:

"With Digitakt II, you can weave splinters of sound in stereo, ripped from the moment and brought to your fingertips for marvelous audio manipulation and beat arraying. Enjoy easy to use sample-crafting and spectacular sequencing. Preserve or distort reality as you so desire with 16 tracks ready for stereo or mono samples, or MIDI and all kinds of modular adaptability.

Key Features

• Digital drum computer & stereo sampler
• 16 audio tracks all ready for stereo or mono samples, or MIDI
• Swappable filters: 1 Base-width filter and then 1 from Multi-mode, Low pass 4, Comb, EQ, or Legacy LP/HP
• 3 assignable LFOs per track
• Delay, reverb, chorus, bit reduction, sample reduction, and overdrive per track
• Updated modular workflow
• Euclidean sequence generator
• 128-step Elektron sequencer
• Expanded memory and power
• 4 × Trig modes
• Song Mode create, edit & play full compositions with ease"

CLICK FOR MORE »

First Public Release of DSP56300 OsTIrus - Access Virus Ti Emulation Now Available

You can find it here.

You can find video demos here.

* Perfect recreation of the Virus TI sound engine by emulating the DSP code on a low level

* The best integrated experience including automation, state preservation and more

* 16 part Multi Mode / Sequencer Mode per instance, with multiple instances possible if you need more voices

* 6 individual stereo outputs in the DAW, 3x "Analog" and 3x "USB", all usable at the same time

* Improved MIDI timing


This one is in via Soviet Space Child.

Xenia (Waldorf Microwave XT Emulator) Coming from DSP56300

This one is in via Soviet Space Child.

It looks like DSP56300, makers of Vavra, the Waldorf Micro Q emulator, and OsTirus, the Access Virus Ti emulator, are working on Waldorf Microwave XT emulator to be named Xenia.

Details futher below via DSP56300.

"Hey Guys & Girls 👋

It’s been a while but I just wanted to drop in to give you some updates on our project

Osirus (Access Virus A/B/C)

Osirus can now load the Access Virus A/B/C Firmware using the drop down menu in the top right of our GUI and you can switch between models on the fly, the stability and performance of the plugin has also been improved

We have also overhauled the patch manager which you can read more about using the link below

https://dsp56300.wordpress.com/2024/02/06/patch-manager-introduction/

Vavra (Waldorf Micro Q)

Vavra has also had the same treatment as Osirus using our new style of patch manager and some performance updates

OsTirus (Access Virus Ti)

We are happy to announce that our Virus Ti emulator is not far from release, it includes the ability to switch to the Snow model also which only uses one DSP rather than 2

It’s being heavily tested by our loyal supporters currently and as soon as known bugs are squashed it will be made public

If you can’t wait and do want to help us test and improve it then feel free to join our discord server and find out how to become a supporter of our project and join the testing team!

Xenia (Waldorf Microwave XT)

This one’s fresh off the press and is still being worked on and tested internally, it’s working pretty amazing up to now

Once we feel it’s stable enough it will be tested internally by our supporters to squash any bugs before public release

We have been working really hard since we last posted and we are very exited for everyone to experience the results of our efforts.

If you want stay up to date with our daily progress then feel free to join us in our Discord server (link can be found on our website)

I also want to say a big thanks to everyone who has continuously shown support to our project, we appreciate it immensely

Catch you all soon"

Elektron Digitakt Out of Production?

This one is in via Soviet Space Child who spotted it online.

The Digitakt is currently out of stock on the Eletron website.

Forzando! (Syntakt, Digitone, Analog Heat +FX)

video upload by Speldosa

"This is the second song I've created using the Syntakt and Digitone in conjunction. I really feel that they complement each other quite well."

This one is in via Soviet Space Child.

Cat attack! (Syntakt, Digitone, Osmose, Analog Heat +FX, and Boss RV-6)

video upload by Speldosa

White Arturia Polybrute 12 Incoming...

video upload by Dream Static Sounds

This one is in via Soviet Space Child.

SOURCE OF UNCERTAINTY - New Collaboration Between Buchla & Black Corporation's Roman Filippov

Soviet Space Child wrote in to let us know Buchla has teamed up with Black Corporation's Roman Filippov to release reissues of classic Buchla modules though a new venture called SOURCE OF UNCERTAINTY. From their new website https://sourceofuncertainty.com:

"AUTHENTIC REISSUES OF CLASSIC BUCHLA MODULAR. Source of Uncertainty is the official store for Buchla Classic Reissues, created by Roman Filippov of Black Corporation.

BUCHLA CLASSIC REISSUES SIGNIFY A RETURN TO PRODUCTION OF THE ICONIC COMPOSITIONAL AND PERFORMANCE TOOLS, using original parts wherever possible, plus minor adaptations for greater low-noise performance and reliability and component availability. We ship worldwide, direct from the engineer."


Roman actually got started cloning Buchla modules prior to forming Black Corporation. See the labels below or do a search for him if you want to go down the rabbit hole.

The following are the current modules listed:

CLICK FOR MORE »

3-Boat Buchla Modular System — In-Depth Look

video upload by Junkie XL

"Here is a close look at each individual module of my Buchla system with a quick explanation of what each one does, how the boats work with one another, and why I chose each piece."

This one is in via Soviet Space Child.

Meet the Luma-1 - Joe Britt's Enhanced LM-1 Drum Machine In Collaboration with Roger Linn

Joe Britt LM1+ demo video upload by Roger Linn

This one is in via Soviet Space Child.

Above is a prototype Luma-1 in an LM-1 case. Below you'll see some pics of the upcoming Luma1 branded case along with some details.

According to @luma1_drum_machine:

"Welcome! We are two US based engineers who are building and selling a few Luma1 Drum Machines with Roger Linn and Joe Britt’s consent."

"While the Luma1 hardware design is in the final stage for preparation before manufacturing, there is much work happening on the software side. Luma1 is running the original LM1 code on the Z80 CPU while the secondary ARM processor delivers new features. Those include custom sound loading, MIDI, synchronization and now added OLED support. More work needs to be done to expand it and bring brand the new functionality, but we’re really happy with the progress."

Click the pics for larger shots. You can find a full write-up on Roger Linn's website here, and additional demos and pics on Instagram here.

Roger Linn: "I've recently met a new friend named Joe Britt, founder and CEO of a tech company here in Silicon Valley called Afero, and designer of some significant tech products over the years.

Lucky for me, Joe also has a personal interest in my old drum machines. A few years ago, a friend of his gave him (!) one of my old LM1 drum machines. He enjoyed playing with it, but he wished it had a few extra features like loading alternate sounds from files, and pitch and pan knobs on the front panel.

So he decided to make his own enhanced LM1. He searched the web and found some incomplete old schematics, filled in the gaps by reverse-engineering the boards, then redesigned and replaced all of the circuit boards to include his enhancements. Note in the photo above that his redesigned boards are about half the size of the original boards, and are purple! Prince would have loved that."