"Multitrack recording of the Yamaha CS-80. All sounds are made with the CS-80, except drums.
Very special thanks to Jair for lending me his CS-80 and Cox Electronics CS-80 programmer. Check out the Cox Electronics upgrade: https://cox-electronics.com"
"Here is a summary of features provided by the upgrade:
- 3 banks of 128 free programmable performances - 6 banks of 128 free programmable presets - possibility of dumping performances and presets by SysEx - MIDI sending and receiving of almost every parameter (more then 100 CC messages) - full MIDI support of the CS-80 keyboard's polyphonic aftertouch - special keyboard settings like octave transpose, velocity and aftertouch response - automatic keyboard double trigger remove setting - programmable chord memory - foot pedal can be programmed sending CC messages (3 simultaniously) - possibility of manually disabling a defective voice - autotuning possibility of all 16 oscillators - 3 extra separate global LFOs for VCO, VCF and VCA (with MIDI clock sync) - special playmodes providing various algorithms like voice stealing, monophonic and polyphonic in unison with detune setting - VCF and VCA envelope time can seperately be switched to 5 times the length - very much care has been taken so the "analog feel" of the CS-80 stays authentic to original
Also extensive service needs to be performed and lots of modifications like:
- all electrolytic capacitors will be replaced since the old ones are bad (around 450) - all sliders and switches will be professionally cleaned (around 80) - cleaning and readjustment of the keyboard contacts - cleaning of the polyphonic aftertouch parts - removal of 5 old boards, to be replaced by 7 new boards. Now the very rare YM26600 and YM26700 chips are replaced by modern electronics - around 250 additional wires, several modifications to the boards and around 70 extra capacitors are needed to make everything possible - complete calibration of all circuit boards - a nice programmer is included and only one connector will be mounted on the back of the CS-80
Almost every parameter of the synthesizer can be stored in memory and can receive and send MIDI data. For only a few knobs and sliders this is not possible:
- detune CHII slider - the four touch response sliders - the master volume knob (exp can be controlled by footcontroller and MIDI) - foot pedal exp/expwah switches - sustain slider (although it can be controlled on/off by footswitch and MIDI) - the switches and knobs of the tremolo and chorus section"
It's Independence Week and while I had intended for this to go out on the 4th itself, I put a bit more work into something special for you which delayed it a few days. I hope that's okay with you.
I wanted to give everyone a status update on how things were going over here and also offer a couple of specials to celebrate. Out of respect for the dozen or so people who have been patient and trusting of me I'm going to let you know how things are going and then share a few cool deals.
"Two new releases from Synthetic Sound Labs that happen to play very well together. The SSL-1015 Lowpass Gate and, the Model 1655 - Geo-GrüVN
Add some Euclidean variation and snappy west coast percussive melodies to your 5U/MU systems. Head to noisebug for more info
#umodular #synth #modularsynth #synthesizer
Click CC at the bottom of the player for subtitles.
"Magnolia will be an 8-voice analog through-zero FM synthesizer, which we built to create sounds from the modular world through a classic keyboard interface.
Waveshapers, wavefolders, and, most importantly, analog linear through-zero FM unlock every sound associated with the 'West Coast' synthesis world. But that's not all! Fat resonant filters and powerful analog oscillators allow more traditional subtractive synthesis sounds as well.
A vast and flexible modulation section encourages complex patches with the twist of a knob, but it is always easy to keep track of what's going on thanks to LEDs on every source and destination. An arpeggiator and a sequencer complement the machine.
We are announcing and showcasing two pre-production units. We aim to release the final version at the end of summer, and it will show some differences. It may have a more refined interface, it will feature digital effects, and some of the features currently under evaluation may disappear.
We've been working on it for the last year, and we're eager to show it to the world!"
Follow-up to this post where you'll find additonal pics.
Update: press release follows:
Frap Tools to take on high-end keyboard synthesizer market with ‘West Coast’ MAGNOLIA making its public debut at SUPERBOOTH25
MEDOLLA, ITALY: Frap Tools, hitherto known as a manufacturer of Eurorack modules and accessories alongside professional audio compressors in the 500-Series format, is proud to venture into the world of high-end keyboard synthesizers with its introduction of MAGNOLIA — announced as an 8-VOICE ANALOG THRU-ZERO FM SYNTHESIZER built to unlock every sound associated with ‘West Coast’ modular synthesis through a classic keyboard interface — anchored around showcasing two pre-production units at SUPERBOOTH25, May 8-10, FEZ-Berlin, Germany…
As an 8-VOICE ANALOG THRU-ZERO FM SYNTHESIZER, MAGNOLIA unlocks every sound associated with the so-called ‘West Coast’ modular synthesis world with waveshapers, wavefolders, and, most importantly, analog linear TZFM (Through-Zero Frequency Modulation) Indeed, its intentions are made clear from the outset by the on point wording worked tastefully into its (initial) top panel design. No need to necessarily remain there, though, for fat resonant filters and powerful analogue oscillators also allow for more traditional subtractive synthesis sounds. And although a deep and flexible modulation section encourages complex patches with the push of a button and twist of a knob, switching modulations on and off with the TOGGLE function, it is always easy to keep track of what is going on thanks to the inclusion of LEDs (Light-Emitting Diodes) on every source and destination.
Digging deeper, MAGNOLIA features eight analogue voices with two oscillators — carrier and modulator — and 24 dB/oct resonant HIGH-PASS and LOW-PASS filters; the carrier oscillator has a through-zero core for precise, sideband-rich analogue FM (Frequency Modulation) sounds, so crystal-like pads to growling basses are available to all with the greatest of ease, while FM can be applied to the filters. Furthermore, sculpting sounds that have not been heard before on analogue polysynths are now perfectly possible, thanks to MAGNOLIA’s unique signal flow — think continuously variable waveform shapes and a wavefolder circuit per voice!
Those two oscillators are derived from Frap Tools’ BRENSO (https://frap.tools/products/brenso/), a Euroack module readily representing its creator’s primary analogue source of articulated waveforms whose degree of entanglement can be precisely set by the musician. MAGNOLIA’s Oscillator 1 is the ‘West Coast’ one with TZFM, wavefolder, and FLIP SYNC, while Oscillator 2 is the ‘East Coast’ one, with PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) and fine-tune. Whether wanting experimental FM sounds or punchy synth brass, they are always at anyone’s service. Speaking of Frap Tools’ unique modular soul, MAGNOLIA’s filter section is derived from CUNSA (https://frap.tools/products/cunsa/) — itself a quadruple analogue ping-able multimode resonant filter, saturator, mixer, and oscillator, no less!
Musically, MAGNOLIA sports a keyboard from fellow Italians FATAR, with polyphonic aftertouch capabilities for enhanced expressiveness, while a per-part ARPEGGIATOR and per-part 16-step SEQ (sequencer) serve to creatively complement the synthesizer still further. Features briefly worth drawing attention to here by way of ending on some more high notes include MAGNOLIA’s bi-timbral programs (with SINGLE, MORPH, DUAL, and SPLIT MODES); all-analogue signal path; three loop-able DAHDSR (DELAY, ATTACK, HOLD, DECAY, SUSTAIN, and RELEASE) envelopes; three digital LFOs (Low Frequency Oscillators); and 512 preset memory slots.
Anyone attending SUPERBOOTH25, May 8-10, FEZ-Berlin, Germany can get up close and personal with two MAGNOLIA pre-production units by swinging by Booth B049 there. Their creators will be showcasing them personally, eager to show the results of their hard work, while providing a passionate warm welcome. Frap Tools aim to release MAGNOLIA as a production product by the end of summer, albeit with some differences evident by then. The interface will likely be more refined, featuring digital effects, while some features currently under evaluation could conceivably be removed."
Today I am going to service a Roland RS-09 having some issues. I'm going to
address the tactile button actuator assembly
troubleshooting the dead button panel circuit
address some metal panel rust
replace some felt dust filters for fader pots
deal with the rickety plastic rivet fasteners for the front panel.
Lots of fun stuff.
0:00 Introduction and Symptoms
0:57 Teardown
2:40 Dead Button Diagnosis
4:31 Tests
5:12 Button Actuator Assembly
6:23 New Felt Dust Filters for Slide Pots
7:33 Rivets, Chassis Rust, Final Test
"Classic machine, newly and comprehensively pro restored and serviced, upgraded with the top-of-the-line Tubbutec MC-2oh2 High Res Mod, and in perfect working order. The Tubbutec 2oh2 Mod stretches the capabilities of the machine vastly beyond what the original machine is capable of, and also integrates MIDI I/O, while retaining the original sound. See listing video below for more details. Compatible power supply included.
Click the auction link on top when you get there for additional listings.
VEMIA is Peter Forrest's auction house. He is the author of The A-Z of Analogue Synthesizer Books.
"1950s Vintage Gibson Clavioline w/Tube Amplifier / Speaker / Case & Tripod Stand
The Gibson Clavioline is a single manual mini-key piano attachment with a tube preamp and amplifier, made from about 1934-1965. The sound made famous in Telstar and in The Beatles' 'Baby I'm A Rich Man', it uses a basic square wave.
The original design was by Constant Martin in France, and many companies licensed it. Selmer were perhaps the most famous maker in the UK, but Jorgensen in Germany was another, and Gibson in the US. The common design feature was a metal-cased keyboard, complete with internal tube tone-forming circuitry. The case attached by metal sliders to rails that could be screwed to the underside of your piano keyboard - or you could use the Clavioline as a stand-alone instrument on a metal stand. There is a Set of rocker switches underneath the keyboard for tone choice. The tube amplifier and speaker are in a case, which the Clavioline keyboard folds into for transport.
Although the tone is quite variable, the sound is distinctive, and instantly recognizable, due mainly to the simple envelope employed - and maybe also to its monophonic nature, which somehow gave melodies a different feel from exactly the same line played on an organ. It may be the glitches which provide its charm. Gibson licensed the Clavioline design from Constant Martin and made the American Clavioline version in 1954. Al Kooper plays one on BS&T's first album, Child is Father to the Man, and I think the specific tune is 'Meagan's Gypsy Eyes.' Also used on 'Sweet Pea' by Tommy Roe, 'Just a Mirage', Tommy James, and Del Shannon's 'Runaway'. A really cool instrument, it's the big brother to the Clavioline used on 'Telstar'.
Good condition, functional but has issues. Powers up, although the power light on the amplifier does not light. Keys play, but seem to just play one pitch, with a variable pitch underneath, and a quavering quality. The tone switches do change the sound, volume control works, and the octave switch works.
Includes the tube amplifier / speaker, which forms the case that holds the Clavioline, the Clavioline keyboard, 3-legged tripod stand, and power cable with split-off multi-pin cable that powers the Clavioline. Also has the service manual (which appears to be original). And includes the expression knee-lever, which is integral to the sound of the Clavioline.
Full pictures are here, along with a video of the instrument being played:
"Digital Keyboards Inc. Synergy II+ synthesizer with MIDI and Kaypro II computer, original owner's manual and all other information about connecting and editing in PDF, all factory and Wendy Carlos sounds on board of the Kaypro, SD cartridge as an extra backup of the sound banks and to save your own sounds, sustain pedals and custom made hardcase available for sale. It's a complete system which you won't find anywhere else in the world at this moment.
Both the synthesizer and the Kaypro have been serviced. Dani Wilson (Hideaway Studios, UK) serviced the Kaypro computer and added two Gotek disk emulators pre-loaded with the SynHCS Host Editor and voice/cart library. The old power supply has been replaced by a modern SMPSU version. The synthesizer got a new psu too, has been recapped and the keyboard contacts were cleaned. The RS-232 SIA cable is also new. Both the service invoices are included as a proof of what's been done exactly. We didn't save money to bring this beauty set back to life.
The Synergy is a very much more powerful synth than many realize - having two complete sets of 16 stage loopable envelope generators per operator which morph between high and low velocity acting on 32 digital oscillators with a remarkable amount of fluid modulation control available all in 16-bit digital audio is just mind blowing for a design that came out of the mid 1970s.
If you want to go deep into the programming side of the synth you need the Kaypro II computer. The complex synth engine gives you the ability to build up sounds from the ground on. It's a joy to build rich pads and melancholic film music sounds. The new owner will receive a testing video with information how to edit sounds prior to the packing process.
Optically there are some signs of use, but the overall condition is very good. The black case of the synth has some scratches, small dents, some missing parts at the edges. The tolex has sings of use too. The upper plastic panel of the SD cartridge is missing and the cartridge itself is in used condition. The Kaypro has some small scratches on the metal case and keyboard. There is a custom made hardcase for the synth which has signs of use too. Please check all the photos and ask for more photos if something is not clear enough.
Both the units are set to 240v. The serial numbers are: 01646 (DK Synergy) and 74313 (Kaypro II)"
"Here we have an EDP (Electronic Dream Plant) WASP synthesizer. Conceived and born in UK (circa 1978). Totally original. Fully working and serviced. Ignore the imitations/remakes. This is the real deal.
Photos shown are PRE-SERVICE. KKGB have ordered a complete new set of knobs. These will be fitted after a thorough service has been done. Suffice to say, that the synth has been checked already and all functions are robust. There are some scratchy pots/swiches at the moment; that is to be expected. They will be dealt with......The WASP has been little used (only one owner from new). The plastic casing is intact. The external 'wall war'" works well. Available to ship world-wide in 5 days.
See attached video [above] to show how good this little gem is, as a twin-oscillator analogue synth. There is sample & hold....noise......glide.....and much more......."
"Jomox XBASE 888 Analog Drum Machine Synthesizer 2024 Serviced and Updated by Jurgen Michaelis at Jomox
Several months back I bought an 888 and sent it to Jurgen at Jomox to tune it up and essentially fortify it, fortunately Jurgen responded cause I believe he normally doesn't service the vintage and discontinued Jomox instruments, then after a busy few months I finally got the email that the 888 is ready, has been updated with every modern up to date hardware improvement available, all the presets restored back to factory etc and in Jurgen's words is good for the next decades. Also listed was a brand new internal battery, changing/updating the scanner firmware and new power supply. This is very likely the best Jomox XBASE 888 available currently.
Before I sent it to Jurgen, after having used mainly Elektron drum machines, I plugged the 888 in and was blown away by the boom, heaviness and power from the machine. There is no harder drum machine and kick drum in my opinion.
In my opinion the 888 is the coolest looking and sounding Jomox drum machine with the grey and red finish and its raw sounding samples etc.
I paid 1100 plus shipping for the XBASE 888 before shipping it to Jurgen, then paid to ship it to Jomox, then finally for the service of course and to ship it back, so asking price is very fair in the end."
Chroma Classics Preset Pack for Chroma features an additional 100 phenomenal presets by Cherry Audio's Director of Sound Design, James Terris, blending vintage tones with a contemporary feel.
"Dive into the captivating history of the Rhodes Chroma synthesizer with "The Story of Chroma," a documentary that traces its revolutionary path from the final days of ARP Instruments to its celebrated release by Rhodes in 1982. This compelling video brings to life the innovative spirit of the Chroma through the firsthand accounts of those who stood at the forefront of its creation. Hear from Dr. Tom Rhea, a renowned electronic music historian, Michael Brigida, a dedicated ARP and Rhodes product specialist, and Mary Lock, the esteemed service manager for both companies, as they recount the synthesizer's development, challenges, and triumphs. Featuring exclusive interviews and insights, this documentary not only explores the technical breakthroughs and musical possibilities the Chroma introduced but also celebrates its enduring legacy and the recent resurgence through Cherry Audio’s efforts. Witness the story of a musical marvel that continues to inspire innovation and creativity in the world of music.
Produced by Daniel Keller Editing and graphics by Mal Meehan Music by James Terris"
4. Cherry Audio | Introduction to Chroma Synthesizer
Synth designer Mitchell Sigman of Cherry Audio introduces Chroma, Cherry Audio's virtual instrument that emulates the 1982 Rhodes Chroma polyphonic analog synthesizer and its Expander unit.
0:10 Introduction
1:18 User Interface Basics
4:44 Voice Architecture and Patch Configuration
9:43 The Chroma Arpeggiator
11:37 Sweep Generators (the LFOs)
17:02 Envelope Generators
19:46 Chroma CPU Usage
Cherry Audio Chroma User Videos
1. Cherry Audio Chroma: A demo + tutorial of an elusive analog synth - CatSynth TV - Patreon
We take a deep dive into Cherry Audio's new Chroma, a meticulous recreation of the legendary and elusive Rhodes Chroma. It was a polyphonic analog synthesizer that came with some unique features, notably the ability to reconfigure the signal path among its oscillators, filters, and VCAs, opening up a wider range of sound possibilities. Cherry Audio's version combines these features with a modern user interface that allows direct manipulation of the parameters (unlike the original with a single data slider), and adds a full-featured effects section. We go over the expansive feature set of this instrument, showing you how each feature works and how to use them to make your own sounds.
00:00 Introduction 00:27 History of the Chroma synthesizer 01:38 Presenting the Cherry Audio Chroma 02:39 Oscillator features 06:56 Filter features 11:17 VCA features 12:42 Dual Layers configuration 16:49 Dual Layers + Oscillator Sync 18:47 Dual Layers + Ring Modulation 21:13 Filter FM 23:54 Parallel Filters 26:09 Parallel Filters + Oscillator Sync 27:04 Series Filters 31:44 Effects section 32:38 Factory Presets 39:41 Conclusion
2. Cherry Audio Chroma Expander Sounds of Chaos Beauty Virtual Synthesizer - Rik Marston Official - AhnyxianSoundDesign
3. Cherry Audio Chroma Expander Sounds of Light & Darkness Virtual Synthesizer VST - Rik Marston Official - AhnyxianSoundDesign
Press release follows:
May 14, 2024: Cherry Audio is excited to unveil Chroma, a groundbreaking virtual instrument that brings the legendary sounds of the 1982 Rhodes Chroma into the digital age.
Scott Tibbs visits The Gallery at Kraft Music and gives an improvised performance using the Roland LX-9 digital piano and SE-02 analog synthesizer.
The Roland LX-9 is the ultimate piano in the premium LX series, featuring commanding looks, unrivaled sound, and nuanced expression. Designed with Roland's advanced Piano Reality approach, the LX-9 offers the refined experience of a concert grand piano with modern features like Bluetooth and wireless control. Its Piano Reality Modeling engine delivers authentic sound and unlimited polyphony, while the Hybrid Grand keyboard with High Precision Sensing technology provides ultra-detailed touch response.
Kraft Music is dedicated to providing you with the best possible Roland premium digital piano shopping experience. We're here to guide you each step of the way, from research to delivery, with our friendly service. Free product support is included with purchase to ensure that you understand the features and setup of your new piano.
Looking for a custom Roland LX-9 digital upright piano package for your home, house of worship, or other venue? Please contact us – our knowledgeable Sales Advisors are happy to assist with finding the bundle solution that's right for you!"
Scott Tibbs visits The Gallery at Kraft Music and gives an improvised performance using the Roland GP-9 digital piano and SYSTEM-8 synthesizer.
The Roland GP-9 brings you a premier piano experience, offering refined musical expression in a sophisticated and luxurious instrument that makes a majestic statement in any space. Elegant curves and finely crafted details project the bold look of a world-class acoustic grand, while Roland's Piano Reality design approach and the advanced technologies inside deliver the touch, tone, and sound projection to match. You also get a world of modern benefits that flow with today's lifestyles, including low-maintenance operation, onboard learning tools, Bluetooth connectivity, and much more. The companion Roland Piano App seamlessly extends the GP-9 experience with remote operation from your smartphone or tablet, offering the ability to control GP-9 features, explore lessons, and more.
Kraft Music is dedicated to providing you with the best possible Roland premium digital piano shopping experience. We're here to guide you each step of the way, from research to delivery, with our friendly service. Free product support is included with purchase to ensure that you understand the features and setup of your new piano.
Looking for a custom Roland GP-9 digital grand piano package for your home, house of worship, or other venue? Please contact us – our knowledgeable Sales Advisors are happy to assist with finding the bundle solution that's right for you!"
Scott Tibbs visits The Gallery at Kraft Music and gives an improvised performance using the Roland GP-6 digital piano and GAIA 2 synthesizer.
The Roland GP-6 offers premium GP features in a luxurious baby grand cabinet that brings a sense of sophistication to every space. Elegant curves and finely crafted details deliver the unmistakable presence of a fine acoustic grand, while Roland's Piano Reality design approach and the advanced technologies inside deliver the touch, tone, and sound projection to match. You also get a world of modern benefits that flow with today's lifestyles, including low-maintenance operation, onboard learning tools, Bluetooth connectivity, and much more. The companion Roland Piano App seamlessly extends the GP-6 experience with remote operation from your smartphone or tablet, offering the ability to control GP-6 features, explore lessons, and more.
Kraft Music is dedicated to providing you with the best possible Roland premium digital piano shopping experience. We're here to guide you each step of the way, from research to delivery, with our friendly service. Free product support is included with purchase to ensure that you understand the features and setup of your new piano.
Looking for a custom Roland GP-6 digital grand piano package for your home, house of worship, or other venue? Please contact us – our knowledgeable Sales Advisors are happy to assist with finding the bundle solution that's right for you!"
"The holy grail of electronic instruments. It's in wonderful working condition and has just been serviced. The panel is perfect and sound is out of this world. Selling off the finest pieces from my collection from many years of musical projects (see my other listings). Includes the original service manual, lid, music stand, volume pedal and sustain pedal. I purchased it from the original owners who are one of the most legendary bands in history. Used on many hit recordings and sounds amazing. I just uploaded a video on youtube so you can see it in action. Local pickup in Miami."
"Vibing with the KORG miniKORG 700FS Synthesizer
@KorgOfficial
Using the Nord Stage 3 as a Rhodes because my original Fender Rhodes needs service :)
I had the pleasure of having the Korg mini Korg 700fs here for a week, what a beautiful instrument!
Many thanks to the official Korg dealer Music Sound A.Tillirides & Son Ltd here in Cyprus for sending me this over for a week to check it out, much appreciated!"
0:00 Lead
1:16. Arp
2:00. Bass
2:31. Lead
3:07 Preset 4
