Dreadbox Artemis Review — Raw Tones, V1.2 Update & Nymphes Comparison

video upload by Starsky Carr

"A full demo of the the Dreadbox Artemis V1.2 firmware plus a comparison with the Dreadbox Nymphes I demo demo every new Firmware V1.2 feature (mod matrix, MPE/CC74, BBD Resonator, BBD Playground, updated reverbs), and answer the big question: is it worth the upgrade?

You'll hear a 7-minute uninterrupted sound journey — from a bare 2-oscillator patch, through filter sweeps, stereo spread and lush Sinevibes effects, then all the way back down to the raw tone. I've hidden some classic samples in there too... can you spot them all? Drop your guesses in the comments 👇

Plus: PWM and sawtooth A/B tests against the Nymphes, the new no-oscillator mode (play the filter as a sine wave!), the drive circuit, every distortion algorithm, and a filthy acid bassline in mono mode to prove it's not just a well-behaved polysynth.

▶ WHAT IS THE ARTEMIS?
Dreadbox's flagship 6-voice analog polysynth: 2 VCOs per voice plus sub, hard sync, thru-zero FM, filter FM, resonant 12/24dB low-pass + high-pass filters, 2 ADSRs, 2 LFOs per voice, stereo voice spread, polyphonic sequencer, and 4 stunning Sinevibes effects (distortion, modulation, delay, reverb) — all modulatable within the patch."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Dreadbox Artemis – Ambient Pads, Chilled Tones & Arpeggios

video upload by Starsky Carr

"25 minutes of pure Dreadbox Artemis. No talking – just sound. Sit back and drift through lush ambient pads, evolving drones, chilled atmospheric tones and hypnotic arpeggios, all created on this 6-voice desktop analog polysynth.

Every sound you hear comes straight from the Artemis: 2 analog VCOs with wave shaping, PWM and FM, sub + noise, resonant 24/12dB low pass and high pass filters, dual poly LFOs, polyphonic sequencer/arpeggiator, and the onboard Sinevibes effects doing the heavy lifting on space and shimmer. It supports poly aftertouch and MPE too – perfect for slow-morphing ambient textures.

Ideal for background listening, studying, relaxing… or deciding whether the Artemis deserves a spot in your studio."

Korg Electribe EMX 1 - Techno weapon - Demo and Review

video upload by Starsky Carr

"Can a groovebox from 2003 really carry an entire live techno, House or Electro set? After watching my mate Beau Beaumont play a whole gig out of a single Korg Electribe, I had to find out for myself. In this video I dig into the EMX-1 (the blue, synth-based Electribe) — the sounds, the synth engine, the effects, and the performance tricks that let you play a full live set from one little groovebox. Stick around to the end for a 15-minute live set demo recorded in one take.

The Korg Electribe EMX-1 and its sample-based sibling the ESX-1 came out over 20 years ago, but they've quietly become cult live-performance machines. 9 drum parts, 5 synth parts, 16 oscillator types, 256 patterns per song, 3 chainable effects, motion sequencing, and a pair of glowing valves for warmth and grit. By the end you'll know exactly what it does, what it can't do, and how to actually gig with one.

🎛️ QUICK BUYER'S TIP
The older Electribes use SmartMedia cards; this newer revision takes SD cards — handier and worth paying a little extra for. Check which one you're getting before you buy.

🔗 CHECK OUT BEAU BEAUMONT
The whole reason this video exists. Amazing live performances and DJ sets:
👉 / beausoundart"

Erica Synths Introduces x 112db RAZORNATOR Stereo Effects Unit

video upload by Erica Synths

"Razornator is a unique stereo effects unit developed in collaboration with 112dB, featuring five chromatically tuned resonating delay lines that emulate the resonance of physical objects, spaces, and instruments.

Timeline:
00:02 - Take 1 / Bassline DB-01 through the Razornator with root note transposed via MIDI
00:50 - Take 2 / Error Instruments Ritual processed with Razornator
01:55 - Take 3 / TR-707 through the Razornator with root note transposed via MIDI
03:09 - Take 4 / Lapsteel processed with the Razornator
04:16 - Take 5 / Monotribe through the Razornator with MIDI set to Chord mode
05:27 - Take 6 / Pocket Operator processes with the Razornator with extreme envelope follower settings
06:24 - Take 7 / Sound FX toy making beautiful sounds with Razornator
07:38 - Take 8 / Jam with Razornator ar TR-909"

Erica Synths Razornator: Review and Demo

video upload by Starsky Carr

"Erica Synths Razornator is the 4th 112dB collaboration FX unit and it's a resonator like no other. In this hands-on walkthrough I build an entire track (strings, dubby stabs and thunderous bass) from nothing but short pulses of noise fed into its Karplus-Strong like resonators. If you want to know what the Razornator actually sounds like before you buy, this deep-dive demo is for you.

The Razornator packs 10 resonators (five stereo pairs), a resonant low-pass filter, +24dB of input gain, a built-in compressor and an envelope follower — all fully MIDI controllable. Originally a 1983 Karplus & Strong algorithm for plucked-string and percussive tones, Erica Synths and 112dB have turned it into a wildly flexible tone-generation and sound-mangling machine. I run through the signal path, the root/offset tuning, the gorgeous presets by Eraldo Bernocchi, and push it hard with synths, hi-hats and kicks. Resonator, but not as we know it."

⏱ CHAPTERS
0:00 Intro — all synths made with the Razornator
1:14 How it works: Karplus-Strong resonators explained
2:36 Playing the resonator via MIDI
5:01 Recreating the intro tones — dubby stab & octave bass
9:10 Eraldo Bernocchi presets — the range of sounds
12:35 Percussion: enhancing hi-hats
16:45 Putting kicks through the resonator
19:39 Synth tones, shimmer & spring-reverb textures
23:00 Final Thoughts



"A unique stereo FX unit with an algorithm developed by Dutch company 112dB, the Razornator features 5 chromatically tuned resonating delay lines that can emulate the resonance of physical objects - bodies of instruments, rooms, structures. Chromatic tuning of the resonating delay lines makes the effect particularly musical, because it allows for aligning them in chord-like intervals, while the built-in envelope follower adds dynamics to the processed signal. Featuring 12 parameters for detailed sound design, save/recall functions for all parameters, MIDI control over all parameters and a sleek aluminium case to match our lineup of compact desktop units, the Razornator will let your setup take flight in any live show, studio or sonic experiment.

The Razornator combines several well considered and tuned “modules” for stereo audio processing with the aim of altering the harmonic content of the incoming signal. The signal path starts with an audio GAIN STAGE that boosts signals up to +24dB (it can effectively act as an analogue overdrive), then the signal is fed through the lowpass FILTER with a RESONANCE control and after filter treatment it passes through five chromatically tuned DELAY-BASED RESONATORS that can be manually tuned or controlled by the ENVELOPE FOLLOWER. After the resonators, the signal is summed and limited by the COMPRESSOR, then mixed with the dry signal and passed through the EQUALIZER and finally is sent to BALANCED OUTPUT stage.
PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS
Product Features
5 chromatically tuned resonating delay lines
Chromatic tuning
Built-in envelope follower
Save/recall functions for all 12 parameters
Preset morphing
Resonators tunings playable via MIDI
Configurable footswitch input
True stereo signal path
Premium aluminum enclosure"

Next Level Drum Modules A Perfect Pair // Bohm + Drum Farm

video upload by Starsky Carr

"Two of the most powerful drum modules in Eurorack, working better together than apart. In this review and demo I dig into the Knobula Drum Farm and the Ohmforce Bohm — and show how combining them gives you a complete, performance-ready techno drum setup in a single rack.

The Knobula Drum Farm is a drum synth AND sampler in one: 16 synth models (FM, Simmons, 808/909-style snares, toms, congas, claps, ring-mod tones, hats, cymbals and more), 16 onboard effects (reverb, delay, multi-tap, reverse, cymbal crash), plus two sample players and 256 factory samples across 16 banks. Sample your own synth tones on the fly, record straight into the module, and route everything through the main or aux outputs for instant variation.

The Ohmforce Bohm is a seriously deep kick drum module with FM, tube drive, bass and wavefolder shaping — but the Performer (DJ filter, beat roll, beat slice, ducking) and Groove (clocked rumble/reverb tails) expansions are what turn it into a room-filling techno machine. Duck the Drum Farm through the Bohm and the whole groove locks together as one living pattern instead of separate hits.

Together these run around £535 (Bohm + expansions) and £450 (Drum Farm) — close to £1,000 of drums — but if you're building a live, hands-on modular setup, they're stunning."

Over 600 Monster Kicks from the Bohm

▶ Patreon: / starskycarr
▶ Website: https://starskycarr.com

Introducing the Official Sequential Prophet~5 by GForce Software

video uploads by GForce Software

"Meet GForce Prophet~5 - the first-ever official software recreation of the legendary Sequential Prophet~5.

On sale now: https://www.gforcesoftware.com/produc..."

Playlist:

1. GForce Prophet~5 | Available Now
2. Introducing the Official Sequential Prophet~5 by GForce Software
3. GForce Prophet~5 | A Walkthrough of the Sounds
4. Sequential Prophet~5 by GForce Walkthrough

User videos:



Playlist:

1. GForce / Sequential Prophet-5 Plug-in - My Factory Patches - Polydata

00:00 Intro 02:14 Aquarium Visit 1983 02:30 Auto Buchla 02:41 Central Texas Disc Golf Semi-Finals 02:51 Clouds Over Ocean 03:08 Concrete Engineering 03:22 CV Input 03:38 Heat Index 03:49 Horizons 04:00 Luggage Carousel 04:15 Natural Science Center 04:27 Network Protocol 04:44 North American Walnut 05:04 Observatory 05:17 Peach Flower 05:32 Plant Irrigation 05:47 Prairie Dawn 05:58 Rainbow Vision 06:13 ROM Upgrade 06:25 Sea Foam 06:44 Silicon Manufacturing 06:55 SSM Bass 07:06 Striking the Circuit 07:17 Television Relay Circuit 07:27 UCSD Research Grouping 07:42 Woodland Hills

2. GForce Prophet 5 vs the Hardware - Starsky Carr

I put the GForce Prophet 5 VST head-to-head against my real Sequential Prophet 5 hardware — testing filters, oscillators, envelopes, LFOs, vintage mode, FM, sync, unison, and more — to find out just how close it really gets.

The GForce Prophet 5 is the ONLY Prophet 5 software officially endorsed by Sequential, making it the only plugin that can legally call itself the Prophet 5. But does the endorsement mean anything sonically? After hours of clinical testing with spectrum analysis, oscilloscopes, and direct A/B comparisons, the results genuinely surprised me.

In this video:
Rev 1 vs Rev 2 vs Rev 3 filter comparison (SSI vs CEM — hear the -difference)
Oscillator shapes: sawtooth, square, triangle side-by-side
Pulse width modulation & LFO speed accuracy
FM / oscillator sync behaviour (I did find a minor difference here)
Polymod and audio-rate filter modulation
Unison & Vintage mode — does the voice-to-voice character match?
Low frequency oscillator mode
X-Mod section: LFOs and envelopes on everything
Built-in effects: chorus, phaser, distortion, multi-mode filter, delay, reverb
CPU load test: 10 simultaneous instances vs Ozone on the master bus

The verdict? The differences I found are no greater than you'd hear between two hardware Prophet 5s. If you don't own the hardware and aren't doing a clinical A/B, you will not notice them.

The GForce Prophet 5 is also remarkably CPU efficient — 10 instances use less CPU than a single Ozone instance. It adds two layers, up to 10-voice polyphony, full CC modulation, and an X-Mod section that turns a classic polysynth into something far more powerful."

ASM Leviasynth: The Most Ambitious Synth of 2026?

video upload by Starsky Carr

"So much more than a DX7 on steroids. In this hands-on walkthrough I program the Leviasynth from scratch to show what Ashun Sound Machines' 16-voice hybrid synth (the long-awaited Hydrasynth successor) can really do: 8 oscillators per voice, 144 algorithms, 7 modulation types, I even demo wavetable-style tones, deep DHDSR envelopes and that gorgeous new analog filter.

I'll show you how it sounds, how it's built and exactly how to start programming it — from a classic Prophet-5 patch to dirty FM basses, glassy vintage-digital pads and modular-style generative patches. By the end you'll understand the workflow and whether the Leviasynth deserves a place at the centre of your studio.

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬
🎹 ABOUT THE LEVIASYNTH
▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬
The ASM Leviasynth is a 16-voice, 8-oscillator algorithmic hybrid synthesizer from Ashun Sound Machines — the team behind the Hydrasynth. It pairs an advanced digital engine (144 algorithms, 7 synthesis types, 300+ waveforms, FM, phase distortion, phase modulation, pulse-width modulation and sync) with a brand-new pure analog 4-pole resonant filter featuring custom pre-drive saturation. Add 13 envelopes, 5 LFOs, a deep mod matrix, a 3-track sequencer, arpeggiator, Polytouch polyphonic-aftertouch keybed and ribbon controller, and you have one of the most powerful synths released in years. Available in keyboard and desktop versions."

▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬
⏱ CHAPTERS
▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬▬
00:00 Intro — tracking shots & first sounds
00:32 First impressions & build quality
01:14 Spec overview: 16 voices, filters, envelopes & FX
02:37 The heart of it: a DX7 on steroids

CLICK FOR MORE »

Erica Synths Resonant Filterbank Desktop // Review and Demo

video upload by Starsky Carr

"The Erica Synths Resonant Filterbank looks like a lighting controller from a 1980s Radio Shack. It sounds like nothing else on the market. In this full review and demo I take the new desktop stereo analog filterbank through all four modes, explore its roots in the legendary Serge Resonant Equalizer, and find out what happens when you turn the resonance knob past 3 o'clock.
Spoiler: it's much, much more than a graphic EQ.

⭐ WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS VIDEO:

Opening demo: input gain, resonance and self-oscillation right out of the gate
The Serge Modular connection — why the filter tuning is in major 7ths, not octaves
All 4 modes: Filterbank, Filter, Clocked Modulation and Dynamic EQ
Per-band feedback routing — the feature the Serge never had
Dual resonance, attenuverter feedback and stereo channel select
Snapshot pools with MIDI-clocked morphing between presets
LFO and envelope modulation — synced to MIDI and free-running
Macro page setup for live performance
Spectrograph / Lissajous display
Honest verdict including current firmware quirks"

Frippertronics on Stereo-oids // Synthux Spotykach review and demo

video upload by Starsky Carr

"The r3ta of loopers!! Synthux Academy Spotykach is the most unique looper I've ever played. Think two tape machines that can loop, overdub, cross-record from one to the other, slow down, speed up — all with three distinct modes: tape/real mode, a time-based slice mode, and granular mode. Add LFOs, envelopes, a trigger sequencer, an onboard clock, MIDI I/O and you've got a sonic playground that'll swallow hours without you noticing.

In this review and hands-on demo I cover everything: the three playback modes, granular cloud control, tape speed pitch-bending, slice quantisation, stereo routing modes, deck-to-deck recording, LFO shapes (sine, saw, square, sample & hold), the trigger sequencer, loading/saving samples via SD card, and syncing it all to an external clock with the Symmontronic Gnome 2. I'm also running it alongside the Synthux Pro X and a DAW running 808s at 130 BPM — so you can hear exactly how it sits in a full setup.

At $949 it's not cheap, but if you're into ambient, experimental, or textural music, it's hard to think of anything else that does this.

The Spotykach supports:
✔ Three modes — Real (tape), Slice, Granular (Drift)
✔ Dual independent decks (A & B) with cross-deck recording
✔ Onboard clock with tap tempo (internal / external / MIDI)
✔ Trigger sequencer per channel
✔ Two LFOs (sine, sawtooth, square, sample & hold)
✔ Envelopes per channel
✔ Delay & distortion/grit effects
✔ Pitch quantisation (semitones, fifths, octaves, 1–2 octaves)
✔ Three stereo routing modes including stereo randomisation
✔ SD card sample load/save (48kHz 32-bit float, 42 sec max)
✔ MIDI in/out, USB power, headphone out
✔ Voltage per octave (V/oct) input
✔ Pickup mode (no parameter jumps)
✔ Visual LED feedback for every parameter"

Erica Synths Bullfrog Drums Review Demo and Manual

video upload by Starsky Carr

"The Erica Synths Bullfrog Drums looks lie a toy but has hidden depths. In this video I give you a complete hands-on review, a live demo built from scratch, and a full manual walkthrough so you know exactly what this drum machine can do before you buy.

The Bullfrog Drums is the follow-up to the Bullfrog Synth — a collaboration between Erica Synths and Richie Hawtin, designed to be approachable for beginners but deep enough for professionals. Spoiler: it absolutely delivers on both fronts."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Erica Synths Syntrx II Review and Demo // Not just for Bleeps, Fizzes and Ambient Soundscapes

video upload by Starsky Carr

"The Erica Synths Syntrx II is one of the most talked-about synthesizers of recent years — but three years on from its release, is it still worth your money? In this in-depth review and demo, I finally get hands-on with this modern spiritual successor to the legendary EMS VCS3 and EMS Synthi, and I want to bust two big myths: it's NOT as complicated as it looks, and it's NOT just a crazy sci-fi sound effects machine.
🎹 What's covered in this video:

-Syntrx II vs the original EMS VCS3 / EMS Synthi — key similarities and differences
-Syntrx II vs Syntrx I — what changed and why
-The 16x16 digital pin matrix explained simply
-Using the Syntrx II as a standard 3-oscillator monosynth
-The trapezoid (looping) envelope in practice
-All-analog signal path walkthrough
-Onboard 3-channel sequencer, DSP reverb and delay, envelope follower
FM, self-oscillation, noise modulation, and filter techniques
-Sample & hold circuit — how to set it up
-The joystick as an LFO / recording modulation source
-MIDI setup tips (offset fix, CC assignments for X and Y axes)
-Patch saving — what it DOES and DOESN'T save, and why it matters
-Honest pros and cons

🎵 Extended drone demo — 5 minutes of the Syntrx II running a single live patch with the trapezoid looping envelope, FM, noise, filter modulation via joystick, and DSP effects. The full version was over 10 minutes — it really is that good.

💷 Price context: Original EMS Synthis now sell for £24,000+. The Syntrx II comes in under £2,000. If you've ever wanted that Synthi sound without selling a kidney, this might be your answer."

*NEW* Faderpunk — It Does MIDI Too!

video upload by Starsky Carr

"If you've been sleeping on the Faderpunk thinking it's just a fader bank, think again.

Most people see the Faderpunk from ATOV Projects and assume it's just another CV controller for Eurorack. It's not. This thing is a deep, flexible CV and MIDI controller — and after several months of hands-on use, I'm finally giving it a proper in-depth review.

In this video I dig into what makes the Faderpunk genuinely special: its app-based system. Rather than being locked into one function, you load different apps onto the hardware via an online configurator, effectively turning it into multiple different CV and MIDI modules in one compact unit.

I walk through a couple of the more complex apps: FP Grids (Mutable Instruments-style drum pattern generation), and the multi-channel sequencer.

You'll see it in action controlling the Roland CR-78 via MIDI CC (including live kick drum tuning for basslines), the Roland Galaxias for parameter and effects control, the Dreadbox Erebus via CV, the Dreadbox Nyx via MIDI, and the Vermoina DRM1 drum machine.

The sequencer alone — four independent tracks, each with variable step length, gate length, octave range, and rate — is something else. And with 16 save slots for recalling different setups, it's genuinely gig-ready."

The FOURM — Here's What It Can Do

video upload by Starsky Carr

"I've spent months building a full 128-patch sound bank for the *Sequential FOURM*, and this is your chance to hear it in action.

The bank includes 50 bass tones (covering everything from deep analogue subs to punchy, cutting leads), classic Prophet-5 patches, and a wide range of sounds designed to be genuinely usable in a mix straight out of the box.

The FOURM isn't trying to be a Prophet-5 or a Pro-One — and that's the point. It can go places those synths simply can't.

All patches are demonstrated dry and some with a simple reverb or chorus to demonstrate what it would sound like in a mix. So what you hear is the real character of the synth.

Download the pack and add your own reverb, delay, or chorus and they open up even further.

✅ Mix-ready sounds designed for real music production
✅ 50 bass tones + leads, pads, keys & classic analogue voices
✅ Prophet-5 inspired patches reimagined for the FOURM
✅ In sysex and SoundTower formats
✅ Full 128-patch bank — one complete sound library"

The GS Music Bree 6 Keyboard Synthesizer: Super cute and super fat!!!

video upload by Matt Johnson’s Keyspace

See dealers on the right as well as https://www.gsmusic.com/synth-store for availability and price.

"The Bree 6 will surprise you with its massive sound! I would take this over a vintage Juno anyday!"

Matt Johnson GS Music demos

And one from Starsky Carr:

Analog Done Right // GS Music Bree 6 Keyboard

video upload by Starsky Carr

"In this in-depth demo and review, we explore the GS MUSIC Bree 6 keyboard — a 6-voice VCO-based analog synthesizer with a fully analog signal path, built-in chorus, delay, arpeggiator, and sequencer. If you love that vintage-meets-modern sound, this one might surprise you.

From raw oscillator tones to lush stereo pads and punchy basses, I break down what makes this synth special — including its unique double/triple arpeggiator modes, MPE compatibility, and rich, characterful sound that sits somewhere between classic Roland-style synths and something entirely new.

If you’re into synths like the Roland Jupiter-8 or Roland Juno-106, this is one you’ll want to hear.

🔍 What’s Covered
Sound demo (full track made entirely on the Bree 6)
Oscillator section: saw, pulse, sub oscillator
24dB analog low-pass filter with resonance & key tracking
Dual ADSR envelopes & fast modulation
Voice modes: poly, mono, unison & stereo spread
Built-in chorus & analog-style delay
Unique arpeggiator (double & triple note modes)
Sequencer workflow & performance features
MPE support & expressive control

🎛️ This isn’t just another vintage clone. The Bree 6 blends:

Raw VCO tone with modern reliability
Hands-on workflow (minimal menu diving)
A distinct character that feels alive and immediate
A surprising amount of depth for a single-oscillator synth
🎧 Who Is This For?
Analog synth lovers
Producers looking for fat, mix-ready tones
Fans of classic Roland-style sound with modern features
Anyone wanting a hands-on, inspiring instrument"


via GS Music

The day has arrived

We’re proud to present the Bree6 Keyboard, our first synthesizer with an integrated keyboard, designed and produced in Argentina for the world. 💙

Built on a six-voice analog architecture, it delivers a powerful and expressive sound engine capable of everything from solid basses and leads to rich, evolving pads. Now expanded with a built-in sequencer and advanced arpeggiator, it becomes a complete performance and composition tool.

With its one-knob-per-function interface, semi-weighted keybed with velocity and aftertouch, and fully analog signal path, the Bree6 Keyboard is designed for immediate, hands-on control—no menu diving.
Immediate Control. No Menu Diving.

The Bree6 Keyboard version is designed to deliver an immediate and intuitive hands-on experience, eliminating the need for deep menu navigation. Its interface follows a one-knob-per-function philosophy, providing direct access to all key parameters for fast and precise sound shaping.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Introducing Cre8audio Programm - MIDI and CV Sequencer

video upload by Cre8audio

Check with dealers on the right for availability.

"As electronic musicians, we’ve used every sequencer under the sun. We loved the speed of some and the randomness of others, but we hated having to choose. So, we built PROGRAMM.

It’s a creative playground that bridges the gap between human performance and algorithmic generation. Whether you’re meticulously stepping in/playing a melody or using real-time randomization to find new textures, PROGRAMM keeps up with your brain. And for those moments where you accidentally forgot to hit record before playing the best sequence you’ve ever written? We built an always-ready recall function to save your soul (and your track)

Total Versatility: Step it in, play it in, or let the machine take the lead.

Controlled Chaos: Dive into deep generative tools and real-time randomization that stay musical.

Are you bilingual? Programm is: MIDI and/or CV Programm loves both!

Be hands-on (and quickly) - with its 6 orange knobs you can tweak the main parameters per step with speed and without menu diving.

PROGRAMM is built for the sketch and the deep dive. Fast enough for your first idea, deep enough to take you the whole way."

User videos:


Playlist:

1. The Ultimate Compact MIDI & CV Sequencer? Cre8audio Programm - Starsky Carr
2. Cre8audio Programm Sequencer Review - Molten Music Technology
3. The Perfect Compact Sequencer?! Cre8Audio PROGRAMM REVIEW - BoBeats



"Cre8audio Programm - Intuitive Performance MIDI and CV Sequencer

We get it, because we’ve been there.

As electronic musicians, we’ve used every sequencer under the sun. We loved the speed of some and the randomness of others, but we hated having to choose. So, we built PROGRAMM.

It’s a creative playground that bridges the gap between human performance and algorithmic generation. Whether you’re meticulously stepping in/playing a melody or using real-time randomization to find new textures, PROGRAMM keeps up with your brain. And for those moments where you accidentally forgot to hit record before playing the best sequence you’ve ever written? We built an always-ready recall function to save your soul (and your track)

Total Versatility: Step it in, play it in, or let the machine take the lead.

Controlled Chaos: Dive into deep generative tools and real-time randomization that stay musical.

Are you bilingual? Programm is: MIDI and/or CV Programm loves both!

Be hands-on (and quickly) - with its 6 orange knobs you can tweak the main parameters per step with speed and without menu diving.

PROGRAMM is built for the sketch and the deep dive. Fast enough for your first idea, deep enough to take you the whole way.

MSRP $399.99 - Estimated Street $349.99"

CLICK FOR MORE »

Genius or Insanity ... The Synth That Nearly Broke My Brain!! Kaleidoscope Review and Demo

video upload by Starsky Carr

0:00 intro
1:05 the interface
5:00 Envelopes… they drive the sequencer
7:55 Sequencer Patterns and Lengths
9:33 A note on Modulation
11:10 Quantisation, MIDI, BPM, voice modes
12:06 MIDI Control
13:22 Load/Save
14:10 Genius or Insanity?

"In this deep-dive demo and review, I break down what this mad-looking, semi-modular digital synth actually does — and more importantly, how to use it musically. Combining additive + subtractive synthesis, generative sequencing, and BPM-linked envelope timing, this thing is capable of everything from controlled melodic patterns to chaotic, evolving textures.

If you’ve ever wondered how far modern digital synthesis can go — this is it.

Rather than just listing features, this video explains the concept behind Kaleidoscope — how its AD envelope “period” drives sequencing, how voices interact, and how you can build complex evolving patches from simple ideas.

🔥 What You’ll Learn
How Kaleidoscope’s generative sequencer actually works
The role of AD envelope periods in rhythm + timing
Creating evolving patches using voice interaction + end-of-cycle triggers
Using additive, subtractive & wavefolding synthesis together
How modulation, quantisation, and patterns shape musical output

🎛️ Key Takeaways
This isn’t a typical synth. It’s closer to a self-evolving modular system in a box, where:

Timing is musical, not arbitrary
Events trigger other events
Chaos can still stay in key

As mentioned in the video, this is not beginner gear — but if you like to go deep, it’s incredibly rewarding"

It's Finally Here // UDO DMNO Review and demo

video upload by Starsky Carr

"The UDO Domino *is here… and it might be one of the most interesting hybrid synths we’ve seen in years. In this full demo, review, and walkthrough, I explore what makes this *8-voice hybrid polysynth so unique — from its dual synth architecture to its incredibly flexible filter section and deep modulation capabilities.

With FPGA oscillators, analog-style waveforms, 32 digital waves, and a powerful dual-engine design inspired by classic SEM-style layouts, the Domino sits somewhere between vintage character and modern sonic experimentation. And yes… it can get beautifully weird.

In this video, you’ll hear real-world sound demos, explore the interface, and see how far you can push this synth — from lush pads to aggressive, experimental textures.

🎛️ What you’ll learn in this video:
Overview of the UDO Domino architecture
Dual synth engines (Domino 1 & 2) and layering possibilities
FPGA oscillators + digital waveforms
Deep modulation options (LFOs, envelopes, cross-modulation)
Advanced filter modes: low pass, band pass, high pass, phase & more
Stereo, parallel & series routing
Effects: chorus, drive, delay, reverb & EQ
Play modes, binaural mode & voice variations
Real sound demos and performance examples

🎧 Why this synth stands out
The Domino goes far beyond a traditional polysynth. With extreme flexibility in routing, modulation, and filtering, it behaves more like an experimental sound design tool than a conventional keyboard — while still being intuitive and hands-on.

🎹 My verdict
This isn’t just another synth — it’s a playable, exploratory instrument that encourages experimentation and rewards creativity. If you like synths that go beyond the obvious… this one’s worth a serious look."

UDO DMNO Playing Some Presets // Sounds Only

video upload by Starsky Carr

"The UDO DMNO has finally arrived. I have a full demo/review/walkthrough coming... but in the meantime here's a random selection of 22 sounds for those interested in what it can do.

The DMNO looks are inspired by the Oberheim SEM, but look under the surface.. and it's doing a whole lot more."

10 Pro Tips for HUGE Bass Sounds (for any synth)

video upload by Starsky Carr

00:00 Intro to the Form 50 Bass Patch Bank
00:46 Simple is often the most punchy
01:52 Using resonance for "Acid" tones
02:25 Adding a second oscillator for "Reese" style bass
03:36 Changing oscillators by an octave for extra punch
04:37 Using intervals (Fifths and Thirds) for more harmonics
07:28 Adding LFO modulation to the filter or frequency
10:25 Using Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) 1
11:55 Dirtyfying the sound with Audio Rate Modulation
15:31 Using the Feedback circuit and adding Noise
20:32 Creating sub-bass with a self-oscillating filter
22:32 Some Examples

"Want to create powerful, professional bass sounds on any synth? In this video, I break down 10 essential bass sound design techniques you can use right away — whether you're using hardware or software.

Starting from simple waveforms to complex modulation, FM, PWM, feedback, and self-oscillating filters, these techniques will help you design everything from deep sub bass to acid lines, reese basses, and gritty modern tones.

These are the exact methods I used to create 50 bass patches — and once you understand the principles, you can create hundreds more.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Genki KATLA - THE VOLCANO SYNTH!! Now Available

video upload by Starsky Carr

"What happens when a synthesizer completely breaks the rules?
In this video, we explore the Genki KATLA — a truly unique polysynth inspired by Icelandic volcanoes, featuring a rotating voice architecture, hybrid signal path, and some of the most unpredictable sound design possibilities I’ve come across.

This isn’t your typical analog polysynth. Each of the five voices can run independently with different waveforms, octaves, and modulation — creating evolving textures, harmonic movement, and generative-style sounds that feel closer to modular synthesis than traditional keyboards.

🎛️ What makes the KATLA special?
• Rotating voice polyphony (round robin-style synthesis)
• Independent per-voice oscillators & tuning
• Digital oscillators + analog filter signal path
• Looping envelopes reaching audio-rate modulation
• Phase distortion, wavefolding & multiple distortion types
• Tape-style wow, flutter & pitch instability effects
• Stereo voice movement & evolving spatial modulation
• External inputs for processing other gear

From lush ambient pads to aggressive, evolving sequences — this synth can go places most instruments simply can’t. It’s not about recreating vintage sounds… it’s about discovering entirely new ones.

💸 At around €5000, this is definitely not a beginner synth — but for sound designers, and anyone looking for something truly different, it well worth a look."

Genki Katla Sound Design: Making sounds from scratch and exploring
video upload by MR TUNA Music

Chapters: 0:00 - Intro 0:16 - Init patch 0:44 - Filter sounds 1:26 - Raising 1 voice 1:43 - Creating a basic pluck sound 2:24 - Aftertouch controls 2:45 - Bring in a little reverb 2:56 - LFO to filter cutoff 3:16 - LFO to reverb mix 3:46 - Keyboard cutoff 4:00 - Osc 3 Square wave 4:23 - Sub oscillator 4:54 - KATLA parameters 5:01 - Rústir wavefolder 6:08 - Rökkur stereospreader 6:37 - Skriða envelope randomizer 7:27 - Aska random modulations 7:57 - Glóð tape stops and flutters 8:35 - Skjálfti ??? 9:14 - Kvika slow tape modulations 9:38 - dark pads 10:20 - Móða voice detuning 11:20 - Katla sounds with aftertouch 13:28 - Thanks for watching

"Hey guys! Very very excited to be presenting the Genki Katla to you all... I am truly in awe of the sound of this very unique and powerful instrument.

I thought the best way to get to know the synth is to start from scratch so in this video we'll go full hands-on with the Genki Katla, exploring (almost) every parameter and building sounds from an initialized patch.

From some raw drone layers and gritty textures to evolving pads, rhythmic sequences, and atmospheric beds, we will see just what this instrument can do, discover new sounds, and maybe make some friends along the way 🙏

If you're into sound design, unique synths, or just love discovering new instruments, this one is for you!

HUGE thanks to Genki for letting me a part of this with them and showing off this super cool synth.

No money was paid, no agreements were made... these are my real thoughts on this very premium synthesizer and I will be sharing lots more."

Press release follows:


Genki Instruments announces availability of Katla as Voice Rotating Polyphonic Synthesizer inspired by its natural namesake

REYKJAVIK, ICELAND: having twice blown European musical minds thanks to show-stealing showcases at SUPERBOOTH25, May 8-10, Berlin, Germany and Machina Bristronica 2025, September 27-28, Bristol, UK, before adventuring across the pond for a repeat performance at Buchla & Friends 2026, January 24-25, LA, CA, USA, Reykjavik-based instrument developer Genki Instruments is proud to announce availability of the eagerly-awaited Katla as a Voice Rotating Polyphonic Synthesizer inspired by Iceland’s largest subglacial volcano as its natural namesake — readily representing the company’s first foray into analogue synthesis, albeit one that uniquely utilises a set of wildcard parameters to infuse it with organic, unpredictable behaviour as an instrument that is worthy of that legacy, excelling at generating rich, evolving, multi-layered textures, where each note stirs, swells, and erupts in its own distinct way — as of March 31…

Clearly Katla’s inspiration runs through its ‘volcanic’ veins. After all, it is framed by side panels and knobs forged from authentic Icelandic lava, giving each instrument a tangible connection to the volcanic forces that inspired it. That this synth should surely roar is a given. Genki Instruments inevitably chose, therefore, to kit Katla out with four independent distortion destinations, the most unruly of which is a stereo CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) Drive effect — a characterful saturation stage, pushing tones from warm and rounded to fractured and snarling.

CLICK FOR MORE »