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 »

Infinite Patches.. for Free! The Retroaktiv PatchGen

video upload by Starsky Carr

"Unlock the full potential of your Roland MKS-70 (the legendary Super JX in a rack) with the Retroactive MPG7X controller! In this video, I demonstrate how I created a high-quality 25-tone patch bank in record time—it actually took me longer to type the names than to design the sounds.

We dive deep into the Patch Gen (Patch Generator) feature found on Retroactive controllers, which uses intelligent randomization to deliver usable, professional-grade synth tones instantly. Whether you need snappy basses, lush "steam" pads, or lo-fi organs, this tool transforms the way you interact with your vintage analog gear.🎹 "

Going for some techno on the KATLA

video upload by Starsky Carr

"I've heard it do ominous and ambient so I thought I'd try a little #techno with the @genkiinstruments KATLA

... and F**k me does it work!! 🤣🤣

Matched with the ‪@oxiinstruments‬ ONE MKII they make a perfect couple!"

See the Genki label below for more.

Sequential FOURM vs Prophet 5

video upload by Starsky Carr

"Is the Sequential FOURM effectively a "Prophet 4"? In this deep-dive comparison, I put Sequential’s compact powerhouse up against the legendary Prophet 5 to see how closely it recreates that iconic vintage DNA.

While the FORUM shares a strikingly intuitive Prophet-style interface—complete with dual oscillators, a resonant low-pass filter, and a dedicated polymod section—it also brings modern innovations to the table that the original Prophet simply can’t match.

We’ll explore the sonic character of the FORUM’s SSI chips, which act as modern recreations of the warm, fuzzy SSM chips found in the original Prophet 5 Rev 1 and Rev 2. By recreating classic factory patches side-by-side, we reveal the subtle differences in envelope behavior and modulation flexibility between these two analog beasts.

🎹 What’s Covered:
• The "Prophet 4" Factor: Comparing the interface, layout, and "familiar" feel of both synths.
• SSI vs. SSM vs. Curtis: Breaking down the filter and oscillator chips that define their warmth and grit.
• Modern Upgrades: Exploring the FORUM’s Poly Aftertouch, built-in arpeggiator, and digital clock sync.
• The Feedback Circuit: A demo of the FORUM's unique feedback loop that adds "MiniMoog-style" grit and prevents bass loss at high resonance—something the Prophet 5 famously struggles with.
• Patch Recreation: A side-by-side listening test of 8 classic patches to hear the real-world sonic differences.

🔗 Stay Connected:
• Exclusive Patches & Samples: Join the community on Patreon for the custom banks used in this video!
• Shop Sound Banks: Visit StarkeyCar.com for professional patches, tutorials, and freebies.
• Socials: Check out my Instagram for more gear shots and studio updates."

⏱️ Timestamps:
• 00:00 – Intro: Single Voice vs. Polyphonic Power
• 00:46 – Interface & Layout Comparison
• 01:23 – The Tech Specs: SSI Chips & Analog VCAs
• 03:08 – Side-by-Side Patch Recreations
• 04:05 – Analyzing Envelope & Drop-off Differences
• 04:40 – PolyMod of the pulse width
• 07:54 – Modulation & Polymod Limitations
• 11:37 – Beyond the Prophet: Feedback & Resonance
• 13:50 – Poly Aftertouch Demo
• 14:20 – Build Quality & Final Verdict

Super JX and the MPG-7X

video upload by Starsky Carr

"The Roland Super JX (MKS-70 / JX-10) is one of Roland’s most underrated analogue polysynths. Released in 1986, it was effectively two JX-8P synth engines in one instrument, giving you 12 voices of DCO analogue synthesis, huge pads, powerful basses, and classic mid-80s Roland character.

In this video I take a deep dive into the Roland MKS-70 Super Jupiter rack synth, paired with the Retroaktiv MPG-7X programmer and the Vecoven PWM upgrade, which massively expands the capabilities of the original synth.

We explore how the controller transforms the experience compared with the original menu-driven interface, and look at the additional synthesis power introduced by the Vecoven upgrade including true PWM, additional envelopes, extra LFO, and expanded modulation routing.

Along the way I demonstrate a range of sounds including pads, basses, evolving textures and layered patches, showing why the Super JX became famous for its huge analogue pads and rich detuned sounds.

I also look at some of the performance features of the MPG-7X such as assignable controls, patch generation, chord mode, velocity crossfading and MIDI integration, which make this combination feel like a modern analogue synthesizer despite the vintage hardware.

If you're into vintage Roland synths, analogue polysynths, or classic 80s synthesis, the Super JX is a fascinating instrument sitting right at the transition between the analogue era and the rise of digital synths like the DX7.

In this video
Roland MKS-70 Super Jupiter overview
Retroaktiv MPG-7X controller deep dive
Vecoven PWM upgrade explained
Sound design examples and patch demos
Dual-layer patches and detuned pad sounds
Performance features and MIDI control

Gear used
Roland MKS-70 Super Jupiter
Retroaktiv MPG-7X controller
Vecoven PWM upgrade"

Hexdrums Deep Dive // All the tones!

video upload by Starsky Carr

"In this video I take a full deep dive into the Erica Synths Hexdrums – exploring every voice, tone, pattern function and performance feature to see just how powerful this drum machine really is.

From 909-style kicks and 808-inspired hats to dirty punchy snares, claps, rim shots, crashes and rides, we’ll go through all 10 drum voices in detail. I’ll show you how easy it is to build patterns, record live, use step programming, adjust exclusivity/fade between hats, and shape everything through the master distortion section for those gnarly, meaty, fat techno rhythms.

We’ll also look at:
✔️ Pattern selection & step sequencing
✔️ Live recording workflow
✔️ Multi-bar patterns (up to 4 bars per channel)
✔️ Individual outs on the rear panel
✔️ Master distortion section
✔️ Sample selection for cymbals
✔️ Performance tricks & groove ideas

If you’re into drum machines, analogue rhythm design, techno, electro, synthwave, or classic 808/909 workflows — this one’s for you.

This isn’t just a quick overview… it’s a proper hands-on demo so you can hear exactly what Hexdrums can do in real-world use."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Starsky Carr's Studio: Vintage & Modern Synth Setup Explained

video upload by Starsky Carr

"Welcome to a full synth studio tour — a look inside my hardware setup featuring vintage analog synths, modern wavetable instruments, modular gear and classic drum machines.

See how a mix of vintage synths, modern instruments, modular gear and drum machines all come together in one integrated setup. In this video I walk through the studio, explain how everything is connected, and show some of the instruments that regularly appear on the channel.

The studio is constantly evolving as new synths arrive, others get repaired, and different setups are tested for videos. In this walkthrough you'll see how classic gear like the Juno-60, Prophet series, Minimoog, TR-808, TR-909 and Jupiter synths sit alongside modern instruments such as the UDO Super 8, Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave, Waldorf M, Arturia PolyBrute and Roland System-8.

I also explain how everything is routed through the studio — from CV-controlled vintage synths integrated with MIDI, to the AudioFuse interface and Neve summing mixer that handle the audio side of things.

If you've ever wondered how to organise a hardware synth studio, integrate vintage CV instruments with modern DAWs, or just want to see a room full of iconic synths and drum machines, this video gives you a behind-the-scenes look at the setup behind the channel.

You’ll also hear a few stories along the way — including the slightly ridiculous “six degrees of separation” link from my studio gear to Charlize Theron and Kevin Bacon through the Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels soundtrack.

Whether you're into analog synthesis, wavetable synths, modular gear, or classic drum machines, this studio tour is packed with gear, ideas and inspiration.

Gear featured (selection)

• Roland Juno-60
• Roland Jupiter series
• Moog Minimoog, Voyager % Sub37
• Sequential Prophet synths
• Oberheim OBX8 and OB6
• UDO Super 8
• Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave
• Waldorf M
• Arturia PolyBrute
• Roland System-8
• TR-808 / TR-909 drum machines
• Analog Solutions Leipzig & Fusebox
• Modular & Eurorack gear"

A Modern Jupiter? Can the UDO SUPER 8 Fulfill the Same Role as a Vintage Jupiter 8?

video upload by Starsky Carr

0:00 Jungle Massiiive
3:09 Super 8 Superpowers
9:07 Analog Drift
13:41 Playing round with some tones
19:21 Filter modulation
21:13 Envelopes
21:50 Making a nice pad
24:18 Cross Mod
26:11 Sync

"Is the UDO Super 8 the modern equivalent of the legendary Roland Jupiter-8? Or does the original analog icon still reign supreme? Or was this just an elaborate excuse for me to get the Jupiter 8 on camera :)

In this video I put the UDO Super 8 and Roland Jupiter-8 head-to-head to see how close modern synth design can get to one of the most iconic polysynths ever made. Forget nostalgia for a moment — what happens when you simply listen to them as two instruments?

We explore the sound, architecture, features, modulation, oscillators, filters, and overall character of both synths to answer the question many synth players are asking:
Can a modern hybrid synth compete with one of the greatest analog synths ever built?

The Super 8 clearly takes inspiration from the Jupiter-8, but it also introduces modern features and flexibility that vintage synths simply didn’t have. So which one would you choose in your studio?

By the end of the video we compare:

Raw sound and tone
Oscillator character
Filters and modulation
Modern workflow vs vintage simplicity
Features and flexibility
And finally… the price difference that might surprise you

Whether you're into vintage synths, modern analog hybrids, classic Roland gear, or cutting-edge instruments like the UDO Super 8, this comparison will give you a clear idea of what each synth does best."

The Weirdest Synth Architecture Ever? The Luna Lunetta Synth Explained

video upload by Starsky Carr

"The first synth I've needed the manual to understand whats going on

What happens when a synthesizer throws away the traditional signal path and replaces it with logic gates, chaotic modulation and experimental sequencing? The Neutral Labs Luna is a modern Lunetta-style synthesizer that turns digital logic into sound – and it’s one of the most unusual instruments I’ve explored.

In this video I take a deep dive into the Luna Lunetta synthesizer, exploring how it works, why its architecture is so different from traditional subtractive synths, and how you can use its oscillators, logic circuits, modulation sources and built-in sequencers to create strange, evolving patterns and glitchy electronic textures.

Lunetta synths are inspired by DIY digital logic circuits built from CMOS chips rather than classic VCO-VCF-VCA designs. The result is a unique sound world somewhere between modular synthesis, generative sequencing and experimental electronic music.

We'll explore:
• What a Lunetta synthesizer actually is
• How the Neutral Labs Luna architecture works
• Using the dual oscillators and internal 64-step sequencers
• CV, gates and creative routing possibilities
• Generative patterns, glitches and chaotic rhythms
• Why Lunetta synths sound so different from traditional analog synths

If you're interested in experimental synthesis, modular workflows, generative music, CMOS logic synths, or unusual electronic instruments, the Luna is a fascinating machine.

Whether you’re a modular user, synth enthusiast, or just curious about alternative synthesis techniques, this instrument shows how far you can push sound design when you break the normal rules."

From Techno to Whitney // Hexdrums Sound Demos

video upload by Starsky Carr

"Pristine to Filthy ... 11 Erica Synths Hexdrums Patterns covering different styles from gabber to Whitney Houston! I wanted to show. range of tones - from dirty fat techno juice to silky 808 style smoothness. With a lot of tweaking in an attemot to show the full range.. those kicks are MASSIVE!

It comes with some preset patch sheets to get you up and running as well as some empty ones to record your own favourite settings. I play most of the 'presets' and make some of my own to show it doesn't have to be a wall of sound. simple and sparse sounds amazing too."

Arturia Introduces KeyStep 37 mk2

Playlist:

1. Tutorial | KeyStep 37 mk2 | Overview
2. Arturia KeyStep 37 MK2 // All the new features it unlocks // Review & Tutorial - loopop
3. Arturia KeyStep 37 Mk2 Review - Molten Music Technology
4. Arturia KEYSTEP 37 MK2 — My New Favorite MIDI Keyboard! = BoBeats
5. Arturia Keystep 37 Mk2 Review and Demo - Starsky Carr

Check with dealers on the right on pricing and availability.

KeyStep 37 mk2 is the go-to compact controller and sequencer. Combining extended playability, enhanced hands-on control, visual feedback, and deep connectivity. It makes it ideal for jamming, live performing, and finding new musical ideas with any hybrid setup.

_Features

KeyStep 37 mk2 builds upon the original with new generative tools like Mutate, a clearer OLED interface, extended connectivity, a more powerful sequencer and arpeggiator and a refreshed design.

_Sequencer with pattern chaining and unquantized recording

From live feel to locked grooves, edit or evolve your ideas

_Mutate, Spice, Phrase Arpeggiator

Transform sequences instantly without stopping the music.

_Scale and Chord Modes

Stay musical, create harmonies, or keep it experimental.

_What’s new?

KeyStep 37 mk2 has more physical controls:

5 more keys, 2 additional buttons and 4 knobs to control sub-menus.

This drastically enhances the overall playability of the instrument while keeping the same amount of functionality.

Users also get additional visual feedback on the Keystep 37 mk2 compared to the KeyStep mk2 as there's a strip of 39 LEDS over the keybed that indicates notes played by the keyboard.

CLICK FOR MORE »

From Magazines to MASSIVE MODULAR // Erica Synths Elektor Formant

video upload by Starsky Carr

"The legendary Elektor Formant DIY modular synth from the 1970s is back — and this time it’s beautifully recreated by Erica Synths. In this in-depth demo and review, I explore the history of the original magazine-built Formant, the DIY ethos behind it, and how this modern recreation captures that vintage analogue modular magic.

Originally released as a self-build project through Elektor magazine, the Formant required builders to etch their own PCBs, source components, and assemble modules like the VCO, VCF, envelopes and more. It was true synth-nerd dedication. Now, Erica Synths has made that iconic system accessible again — without the UV PCB lab in your garage.

In this video:

🎛 Overview of the Erica Synths Formant system
📖 The history of the original 1970s Elektor DIY kit
🔊 Sound demos: VCOs, filter tones, modulation & patching
🎚 Performance insights (including Synth East)
🤔 Is this the ultimate vintage modular revival?"

Get the TR909 upfront presences from the TR1000 ... or anything else for that matter!

video upload by Starsky Carr

"How Close Is Close Enough? Is the TR-1000 really a TR-909 replacement… or is that missing the point entirely?

In this deep-dive comparison, I also put the Roland TR-1000 head-to-head with my original Roland TR-909 to see how close we can actually get — and more importantly, where the differences really matter.

Roland are clear: this isn’t meant to be a clone. But with TR-909-style analogue circuits, 808-inspired elements, and ACB models under the hood, it begs the question… can you sell your 909 and fund a TR-1000 instead?

After putting these 2 together I realised the biggest tonal difference isn’t to get that live 909 vibe is the main outputs. The TR-909’s main outs are band-limited, with less low-end and a high-frequency tilt that creates that bright, exciting presence. Using Logic’s Match EQ, I recreate that curve so you can apply it to:

CLICK FOR MORE »

Jefff Mills Drum Tutorial on Roland TR1000

video upload by Starsky Carr

"Recreating the flow of Jeff Mill's iconic Exhibitionist TR909 performance using the Roland TR1000. I've the TR909 next to it - sounds almost the same - there's another video in that!

In his video Jeff Mills creates all the patterns from scratch - and the trick is that he's playing the patterns in live mode - not xox step sequencing - and he records the pattern while the track is muted then mixes it in later. WQhen you watch his performance he's constantly tweaking and programming. Always a step or 2 ahead of what you're hearing. VERY CLEVER.

The faders are a great addition to the TR1000 - vastly reducing the amount of twisting you have to do! :)

In this I follow the same techniques he uses ion that performance, but don't copy beat for beat - where's the fun in that? I take his ideas and use his techniques to build something similar - hopefully demoing how to create your own performances using your own style and influences."