Superlative SB01 (Space Bee) :: Live Sequence :: Boss DM-101 :: Strymon BigSky

video upload by Harry van Mierloo

"Tweaking a live sequence from the new Superlative SB01 (Space Bee), with the Roland JX-8P singing along here and there and pepper & salt from the Boss DM-101 analog delay and Strymon BigSky reverb. Background noise is from the notoriously noisy JX-8P chorus, not the other devices..."

Superlative SB01 (Space Bee) :: Soma Cosmos :: Roland JX-8P :: Ambient live jam :: PART I

video upload by Harry van Mierloo

"This week I've received my Superlative SB01 (Space Bee)... after 6 years of patiently waiting! 😅 Super happy with it so far. Very beautiful to see and built like an American tank. Sound wise I cannot distinguish it from my SH-101 here. The SB01 actually sounds slightly better, probably due to the age of the components of my good old SH-101. And it's definitely a lot more solid and thinner than the original, due to the metal casing.

Instead of a full review or demonstrating all the classic 101 sounds that you find all over the internet already, I thought let's just practice a bit more with my ‪@somasynths‬ Cosmos and put the SB01 through it for some real-world sounds and live ambient, together with my good old JX-8P (always a great companion for 101 sounds).

All recorded in one take in Ableton, with a touch of salt from the ‪@strymon‬ BigSky.

Enjoy!"

Superlative SB01 (Space Bee) :: Soma Cosmos :: Roland JX-8P :: Ambient live jam :: PART II

video upload by Harry van Mierloo

"New day, new recording... With exactly the same setup as yesterday I've recorded another dark ambient jam, again with a primary role for the new Superlative SB01 (Space Bee), together with the Roland JX-8P through the wonderful ‪@somasynths‬ Cosmos.

This time I’ve managed to fix the video latency issue when exporting from Ableton, so video & audio should now be in sync. 😅

Enjoy!"

Superlative SB01 with Roland SH-101 - production unit 2025

video upload by Antony Fewster

"Very quick play around with the new Superlative SB01 (last minute thing, apologies for the lack of lighting and shaky iphone). SB01 sequenced by the Intellijel Metropolix, SB01 keyboard (running on internal battery) controlling external SH-101.
u-he uhbik 2 beta on delay duties.
Not the best quality lighting, nor does it (not intended) show the breadth of what this can do (I only had one hand free), but wanted share an initial take how this looks and sounds in a style I'm familiar with. I'm a fan."

Superlative SB01 filter mod

video upload by Antony Fewster

"Metropolix sending gate, cv and additional cv into the mod CV input of the SB01. Gives any baseline more movement and life - a really nice addition that takes it beyond the standard sh-101. Playing around with the filter and resonance for effect."

Superlative SB1 Synth Unboxing

video upload by nick kwas

"this is not a paid promotion, i purchased this synth because i think its cool"

Cool Buchla baseball cap/hat.

Superbooth 2025 Superlative Instruments SB01

video upload by Padawan Studio

"First impressions at Superbooth 2025"

Superlative Instruments Roland SH-101

Details on XILS-lab's The Eighty

You might remember the teaser video and announcement video.

The press release with additional details follows:

XILS-lab launches The Eighty as virtual Vangelis soundalike homage to iconic Seventies synth classic, faithful to the original and enhanced for the future

GRENOBLE, FRANCE: XILS-lab is proud to launch The Eighty — effectively acting as a virtual Vangelis soundalike homage to an iconic Seventies-vintage synth classic that the Academy Award-winning Greek musician, composer, and producer of electronic, progressive, ambient, and classical orchestral music made into his signature sound, thanks to its exceptionally complete performer expression features (such as a layered keyboard that was both velocity- and pressure-sensitive in action, albeit, unlike most keyboards of the time, that aftertouch could be applied to individual voices, and a ribbon controller allowing for polyphonic pitch- bends and glissandos), faithful to the original and enhanced for the future as the latest entry into the audio software company’s lengthening lineup of virtual instruments par excellence — as of January 14…

It is fair to say that Bladerunner — the now-classic Ridley Scott-directed sci-fi film from 1982 set in a dystopian future Los Angeles of 2019 — is, for many, inextricably linked with Vangelis’ BAFTA- and Golden Globe-nominated score, showcasing his superlative skills with that iconic Seventies-vintage synth classic that was arguably as ahead of its time as that trailblazing score to which its sound subsequently became inextricably linked in itself. Much missed, Vangelis left this mortal coil in 2022, sadly, while the relatively few remaining fully operational examples of Yamaha’s CS-80 synth — supporting true eight-voice polyphony, with two independent synthesizer layers per voice each with its own set of front panel controls, in addition to a number of hardwired preset voice settings and four parameter settings stores based on banks of subminiature potentiometers — that musically meant so much to him are highly coveted by high-flying collectors, commanding eye-watering prices extending into high five-figure territory, putting them well beyond the reach of mere musical mortals... not that many could comfortably carry one anyway as they weigh in at a back-breaking 100kg/220lbs (including built-in hard case), regardless of how deep their pockets may well be!

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Realton Variophon Gig ex Talk Talk w/ Provenance

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this Vemia listing

Click the auction link on top when you get there for additional listings.

"Variophon Gig with keyboard and wind controller (ex-Talk Talk). This superlative instrument was used on every Talk Talk album (except the very first one) [see this post]. This actual example - written provenance included.

Hugely expressive, and probably the best trumpet and oboe facsimile ever made. This example includes the Tuba, Oboe, Clarinet, Trombone, Trumpet and Saxophone modules.

The problem with these instruments is that, now nearly half a century old, the adhesive on the diaphragm has ossified. So it probably plays it's own tunes, to some extent. Couple of broken knobs, but still turnable. The mains plug has been removed. Definitely needing expert servicing - but a hugely worthwhile project. Packing at VEMIA: 24GBP."

You can find another model previously posted here. See the Realton label for additional posts.

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Superlative's Beautiful Modular - Superbooth 2023

video upload by True Cuckoo

"More info about Superlative: https://www.playsuperlative.com"

Superbooth 2023: Superlative Audio Monolab 1210

video upload by Sound On Sound magazine

"Superlative Audio launch their Monolab 1210 synth, in a suprisingly compact form factor."

Superlative Monolab 1210 Superbooth 2023 Sound Demo (no talking)

video upload by Bonedo Synthesizers

Superbooth 2023: Superlative - Monolab 1210 - Space Bee

video upload by sonicstate

"We spoke to Ben from Superlative at Superbooth 2023 about their latest product, a fully self-contained, semi-modular synthesizer Monolab 1210. Based on various synthesis concepts from the 70s and 80s, this synthesizer offers a compact semi-modular format with a clear and well-mapped workflow. It is aimed at beginners, as well as those who want to dive deeper into the world of voltage control.

It was good to see Space Bee back at Superbooth, and though it is clearly inspired by the SH101, it has a lot of enhancements, such as ADSR cycling mode, CV control and more. The synthesizer is powered by USB C and is surprisingly thin, measuring less than an inch deep.

Space Bee Available Autumn 2023. Price TBC

Monolab 1210 Available Autumn 2023. Price TBC"

Superlative Introduces MONOLAB 1210 SEMI-MODULAR SYNTHESIZER

via Superlative

"The Monolab is our distillation of subtractive synthesis in its most accessible, portable, and configurable form. A tactile canvas of sound with a clear conceptual mapping that equally invites an educational or performance approach.

Deep dive and full specifications coming June 2023
INPUT
USB TYPE-C
OPTIONAL POWER FROM SB01
OUTPUT
PROFESSIONAL +10V AND +/-5V
POWER
ULTRA-LOW-POWER DESIGN
ACCESSORIES
L-STAND
U-STAND
DIMENSIONS
220 X 220 X 22MM
WEIGHT
2.8 POUNDS / 1.3KG"

New England Synth Fest Set for April 22 in Burlington, Mass

Details follow:

"New England Synth Fest, Saturday, April 22, 12pm to 6pm, in Burlington, Mass (at the Microsoft Technology Center, 5 Wayside Road). SIX HOURS of live music, video art, vendors, exhibitors, lectures, a jam room, and a synthesizer petting zoo. FREE admission.

Live music from Christina Shivers, Deftly Demolition, Jade Rose, Metal Tiger, Michael William Gilbert, Repairer of Reputations, Sean Stover, Sherisa Sterling, SHERMVN, s0ak, and Tom Eaton. Live visualization art from Allison Tanenhaus, Anagram, coolpics.biz, Jame Coyne, SunJessie, Vidumami, and more!

Lectures and talks from Piotr Rotkiewicz, Robyn Alman, Alex Bernhardt, Michael Bierylo, Collin Russell, Peter Raffensperger, Luke Stark, Gerry Bassermann, Joe Paradiso, and Randel Osborne (see the website for topics and schedule). There will be a "Jam Room" brought to you by Circuit Happy, using shared CV/MIDI clock on their Missing Link hardware. Exhibitors include Circuit Happy, Cyran Makes Music, Sequential, Source Audio, Superlative, and Tall Dog Electronics, AND MORE.

Check out the NESF website for more details."

Sequential Trigon-6 Sonic Deep Dive – Daniel Fisher

video upload by Sweetwater

Be sure to see the dealers on the right for availability.

"Nearly 50 years of heritage design and analog expertise have been distilled into the superlative circuitry of Sequential’s groundbreaking new polyphonic 6-voice synthesizer: the Trigon-6. Historic synthesis is masterfully blended with modern sonic possibilities to create a forward-looking instrument that won’t compromise on vintage character. Join Sweetwater’s premier synthesist, Daniel Fisher, to explore this polyphonic powerhouse. Check it out!"

0:00 – Intro
1:04 – Trigon-6 Oscillators
5:17 – Trigon-6 Noise Source
5:34 – OSC 3 as Modulator
8:51 – Trigon-6 Oscillator Sync
10:28 – Trigon-6 Vintage Knob
11:18 – Pan Spread
12:03 – Program Volume
12:18 – Pitch Wheel Range
12:37 – Trigon-6 Key Modes
13:10 – Trigon-6 Glide
15:17 – Hold Button
15:49 – Trigon-6 LFO
18:54 – Trigon-6 Polymod
20:17 – Trigon-6 Aftertouch
21:49 – Trigon-6 Filter
28:39 – Trigon-6 Amp Envelope
29:21 – Feedback, Drive, and Distortion
33:02 – Trigon-6 Arpeggiator
35:06 – Trigon-6 Sequencer
36:08 – Trigon-6 Effects
42:13 – Thanks for Watching!

Oberheim Xpander

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this auction

"Original vintage c 1985 Oberheim Expander synthesizer module in absolutely stunning condition, SERVICED, with original flight case, perhaps the best surviving example on this lovely little planet. The superlative analog polysynth. Perfect for the pro player, collector, or studio for whom second best is not good enough."

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Kama Sutra Lovers and Modcan

This one was sent in via John L Rice who noticed the prototype modules.

You can find additional pics at Kama Sutra Lovers site here.

P.S. You can find a great shot of Diana from Kama Sutra Lovers with Elektron gear prevoiusly posted here.

From the Modcan post:

"We had the pleasure of meeting with Bruce Duncan when we were picking up our Modcan synth modules.

Bruce Duncan the founder of Modcan builds the modules by hand and there is a long waiting list so we were excited to be finally getting our pieces. For us these are our favourite modular synths as the sound is mega-phat and the large size is super ergonomic and fun to work with. Needless to say, the build quality is superlative and sets the standard!"

Analogue Solutions Announces Colossus #4

I almost skipped posting this as the only news here is there's a 4th production run of the Colossus. I guess it's interesting knowing how many are out there. What's also interesting is I always assumed the Colossus was either built in a limited initial run, or it was built per order only. This is a mammoth endeaver and each one costs 25,000 GBP which comes out to $35,000 US. It is $4500 less than this little Sennheiser VSM201 Vocoder!

Note, the images in this post appear to be stock. You can find demos of the Colossus in previous posts here.

Press release follows:
""Analogue Solutions announces forthcoming fourth run of Colossus supersized synth that trips back to the future of analogue

KINGSWINFORD, UK: following a showstopping showcase during its introduction at SynthFest UK 2019 in Sheffield, British boutique electronic instruments innovator Analogue Solutions is proud to announce a forthcoming fourth run of Colossus — its supersized synth that trips back to the future of analogue, albeit symbolising so much more than a powerful analogue ‘workstation’ with no fewer than 12 VCOs (Voltage-Controlled Oscillators) beating at its monumental musical heart, rather representing art, architecture, and superlative studio furniture at its hand-built best by taking its design cues from the colossal classic that is the EMS Synthi 100, although no Synthi circuit was cloned or copied in making the destined-to-be-classic Colossus fit for a new generation of high-flying owners — as of February 15…

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BeatPPL Podcast 70 - Rossum-Electro's Dave Rossum & Marco Alpert

Published on May 16, 2020 BBoy Tech Report

"Dave Rossum & Marco Alpert of Emu Systems & Rossum-Electro joins the podcast for a conversation about the EMU legacy, SP1200, and their current eurorack projects. Livestream scheduled for May 16th, 2020 at Noon pacific.

About Dave...
Starting with his co-founding of E-mu Systems, Dave provided the technological leadership that resulted in what many consider the premier professional modular synthesizer system. The E-mu Modular System combined superlative analog design, innovative use of digital technology, and unparalleled physical construction and reliability.

In the following years, Dave and E-mu turned their attention to affordable professional digital sampling with the Emulator keyboards and racks. The Emulator II in particular established sampling as the leading music technology of its time, becoming a standard fixture in professional studios worldwide and appearing on innumerable hit records and film soundtracks. SP-1200It was followed by the Emax samplers, the legendary SP-12 and SP-1200 sampling drum machines, the Proteus sound modules and the Morpheus Z-Plane Synthesizer.

In addition, Dave also developed and licensed technology that enabled the creation of many iconic synthesizers, including the Oberheim 4-Voice, the Sequential Circuits Prophet 5 and, via his design of many of the SSM music ICs, instruments from Korg, Kawai, and many more."

Superlative is Hiring

Superlative, makers of the SPACE BEE SB01 (pictured below), are hiring.

You can find full details here.

"Join us in building the next decade of synthesizers.

We are looking for electrical, mechanical, and embedded engineer positions across the US."

Superlative SB01 Is Funded - 44 Hours to Go for Microtuning Stretch Goal

The Superlative SB01 has reached funding on their Kicstarter campaign. They are currently at $171,557 pledged of their $101,000 goal, however they added a stretch goal to add microtuning as a feature for all future models. The new stretch goal is $200,000. The funding campaign has 44 hours to go. If you are interested in getting in on the SB01 early and would like to see microtuning added, now might be the time.

The Superlative SB01 Is Ready

via Superlative

"After a summer of continued development and polish, we were able to push the design of our synthesizer beyond what we had already imagined.

This new model represents an upgrade in every dimentions: from a machined aluminum chassis to a full day's worth of battery life, along with a completely new visual identity."

"Picking up where the golden age of analog synthesizer design left off, Superlative is building electronic instruments for the next generation of musicians. We believe that the best in electronic instruments is yet to come.

Our synthesizers are engineered and built in the U.S.

We want to design products that last - both in their original design and with the goal that their repair and maintenance be as transparent as possible."

Kickstarter launches tomorrow at 1PM.

Additional pics below. Be sure to click on them for the full size shots.

See the Superlative label for additional posts including demos.

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