Exploring the Sequential Fourm: an underrated synth gem

video upload by Signal Sounds

"Our good friend The Unperson returns to the Signal Sounds channel to put the Sequential Fourm through its paces.

Fourm offers the classic sound and quality of Sequential at an unprecedented price point. Drawing on some of the best synths of all time, this compact analogue powerhouse boasts some fantastic features like poly aftertouch and a flexible arpeggiator/sequencer.

Buy here: https://www.signalsounds.com/sequenti..."

Melbourne Instruments brings Braids engine to desktop NINA analogue polysynth

NINA Macro Oscillator Mode - BRAIDS Update! Demo and deep dive with THE UNPERSON video upload by Melbourne Instruments

"The powerful new Macro Oscillator Mode firmware update for Melbourne Instruments' motorised polysynth, NINA, has arrived. This new update adds 45 synthesis waveform models using open-source code from Émilie Gillet’s Mutable Instruments Braids, one of the most celebrated Eurorack synth modules.

This new mode massively expands Nina's sonic capabilities, unlocking a new world of synthesis, from classic analog textures to cutting-edge digital experimentation. Powered by Nina’s innovative architecture, the new Macro Oscillator Mode delivers an incredibly versatile hands-on sound design experience unlike any other.

In this video Melbourne Instruments collaborator THE UNPERSON takes a deep dive into Macro Mode, exploring some of the Macro Oscillator models, and demonstrates just some of the 60 new presets created for this update, exploring the sonic possibilities of the new Macro Oscillator.

0:00:11 Intro - about this update
0:02:31 Oscillator Models
0:06:02 Preset previews - Untitled Unperson Patch
0:07:13 Spectral Whips
0:07:37 Trance Lead
0:08:10 Bulk Carrier
0:08:50 VHS Error
0:09:09 Chords
0:09:53 Talkback
0:10:11 Sweeping Horizon
0:10:55 Arp DRM
0:11:23 Toy Crush

To support this update there is a new bank of 60 Macro Presets, designed by Protovolt, Tom Hall and James Terris. Available to download now: https://www.melbourneinstruments.com/..."

2nd video followed by the press release:

NINA Macro Oscillator Mode — 12 polyphonic voices of BRAIDS! Macro Presets audio demo with PROTOVOLT

video upload by Melbourne Instruments

"In this video, Sound Designer PROTOVOLT demonstrates a selection of the 20 new presets he created for this update, exploring the sonic possibilities of the new Macro Oscillator.

0:00:20 Xenomorph
0:01:02 String Theory
0:01:40 Zero Space
0:02:28 Harpsichon
0:02:58 Dark Matter
0:03:41 Supernova
0:03:58 Nucleus
0:04:38 Flux
0:05:09 Datablade
0:05:38 Retsu
0:06:04 Event Horizon


To support this update there is a new bank of 60 Macro Presets, designed by Protovolt, Tom Hall and James Terris. Available to download now: https://www.melbourneinstruments.com/..."

Press release follows:


Melbourne Instruments brings Braids engine to desktop NINA analogue polysynth

“NINA has always been an absolute powerhouse of a synth, but this update is insane; OSC 3 gives you 45 Braids macros across 12 voices, plus its massive mod matrix — the range of sounds and textures you can create now knows no bounds.”

- Musician/sound designer PROTOVOLT, 2026

MELBOURNE, VIC, AUSTRALIA: Melbourne Instruments is proud to bring Mutable Instruments’ Braids engine — Emilie Gillet’s celebrated open-source macro oscillator — to its desktop NINA analogue polysynth, as of April 30…

Available as a free firmware update, all 45 Braids synthesis models run across NINA’s 12 true polyphonic voices, each shaped by a dedicated overdrive-able analogue filter. Ultimately, users can now layer Braids and analogue VCOs (Voltage Controlled Oscillators) across four multitimbral parts, morph between presets, and sequence everything.

Duly described by Mutable Instruments as a macro oscillator, Braids was a mono Eurorack module: one voice, no internal filter, and no modulation routing. It is now something else entirely on NINA, itself described as the world’s first motorised polysynth. Put it this way: when switching layers, the motorised knobs snap to new positions; morph between patches and they sweep in real time. Meanwhile, modulation routings are all visible on the panel from the moment they are selected. Surely Braids has never been this hands-on.

Digging deeper, each waveform model is shaped by two expressive parameters — Timbre and Color — adapted from the original Braids module. More meaningfully, these controls affect multiple tonal dimensions simultaneously, producing complex, evolving, and musically responsive sounds. Spanning analogue VCO emulation, vowel and formant synthesis, 2-operator FM, physical modelling of strings and wind instruments, wavetable synthesis with smooth interpolation, granular synthesis, and electronic drum simulation, the 45 models evidently elevate NINA to a new level, further cementing itself as a premium analogue polysynth powerhouse for experimental, generative, analogue, and digital synthesis.

Says musician/sound designer James Terris, ending on a high note: “I’ve always described NINA as a beautiful beast — analogue oscillators paired with its super-fat and driven analogue filter make it beastly! But while the existing wavetable oscillator adds a crystal sheen that provides a beauty, the new macro oscillator models expand this tremendously. Indeed, it can go from delicate FM, Karplus-Strong, and even vocal formant textures straight into swarming, stacked super-waves. With this update, it feels like an instant NINA ‘MK-2’!”

Excluding taxes applicable to the territory concerned, NINA is presently priced at $3,299.00 USD in North America; €3,165.00 EUR in the EU; £2,835.00 GBP in the UK; and $3,499.00 USD in Japan, while it is presently priced in Australia at $4,995.00 AU, including GST (Goods and Services Tax) — all via Melbourne Instruments’ growing global network of dealers.

For more in-depth information, please visit the dedicated NINA webpage here: https://www.melbourneinstruments.com/nina

The new NINA MACRO OSC UPDATE firmware is downloadable for free from here: https://www.melbourneinstruments.com/support#nina

Coinciding with the new NINA MACRO OSC UPDATE firmware release, owners of the world’s first motorised polysynth can also download 60 new presets for free from here: https://www.melbourneinstruments.com/presets#nina

A Guide to Synthesizer Filters (and how to use them to make music)

video upload by The Unperson

"In today's guide to synthesizer filters I break down filters and show how you can use them to make music. Whether you’re working with eurorack, hardware, software, analog, or digital synths, this guide should help you further understand filters.

We start with the basics, looking at what filters do and how low pass, high pass, and band pass filters shape sound. From there, I move into modulation, showing how to use envelopes and LFOs to add movement, rhythm, and expression to your patches.

I also cover filter self oscillation and how filters can become sound sources in their own right. Towards the end, we get into more advanced techniques like filter banks and stereo filtering to create wider, more complex sounds and mixes.

If you’re into synthesis, sound design, or electronic music production, this will give you techniques you can immediately apply to your own tracks.

Topics covered include synthesizer filters, eurorack and modular synthesis, sound design, envelopes, LFO modulation, filter self oscillation, filter banks, stereo filters, and electronic music production.

Perfect for fans of synthesis, sound design, eurorack, modular systems, and electronic music production.

#filter #synth #eurorack #synthesizer #electronicmusic

CONTENT
0:00 - Intro
1:16 - Basics
3:22 - Envelopes
6:59 - LFO's
10:27 - Self-Oscillation
16:02 - Fliter Bank
20:24 - Smile Pass
24:23 - Outro"

Mutable Instruments Rings - Alternative Firmware!

video upload by The Unperson

"Mutable Instruments Rings is one of my all-time favourite Eurorack modules, and I’ve made many videos about it over the years. As a resonator and physical modelling synthesizer, it’s been a core part of my modular synthesis and electronic music setup for a long time. I thought I knew all there is to know about Rings, but then I discovered this alternative firmware which greatly expands the features, and breathes some new life into this old module.

In this video I explore a range of new features within Rings, including frequency lock, updated chord charts, and a compact stereo version of the classic Mutable Instruments Elements, adapted to run inside the module. There’s also an “eternal exciter” mode, which allows more control over the exciter, opening up new possibilities for ambient, experimental, and textural sound design. This alternative firmware

If you’re into Eurorack, modular synths, physical modelling synthesis, or sound design for electronic music, this firmware offers some subtle but very useful extensions to an already powerful synthesizer module.

For more info on this firmware update, and the download files, head on over here: https://github.com/lylepmills/eurorac...

CONTENT
0:00 - Intro
1:09 - Installation
2:11 - Frequency Locking
4:07 - Menu Navigation
6:55 - Alt Chords
10:57 - Stereo Elements
16:18 - Ext Exciter
22:28 - Outro"

Signal Flow Podcast Ep2: Our favourite sequencers, under-the-radar modules & more

video upload by Signal Sounds

Chapters:
00:00 Intro
03:37 News roundup
07:13 Favourite sequencers
23:21 Under-the-radar modules
32:32 Current trends in Eurorack

"In this episode, Tom and Luke discuss their favourite sequencers, share some favourite under-the-radar brands and modules, and chat about some of the current trends in Eurorack, from multi-algorithmic digital powerhouses to manufacturer-specific ecosystems.

Thanks to everyone who commented on episode one! You can get in touch with questions, feedback and suggestions via signalflow@signalsounds.com

Some of the gear discussed:
https://signalsounds.com/xaoc-devices...
https://www.signalsounds.com/dannysou...
https://www.signalsounds.com/new-syst...
https://www.signalsounds.com/make-noi...
https://www.signalsounds.com/noise-en...
https://www.signalsounds.com/making-s...
https://signalsounds.com/fancyyyyy-sy...
https://alteredstatemachines.net/aris..."

The Unperson’s Rings video:

Mutable Instruments Rings is still one of the BEST modules!!

video upload by The Unperson

"Rings by Mutable Instruments is one of the few modules on my 'Never Sell' list. It will always be fun, always sound good, and always have new sounds to discover, and that is the sign of a very well designed module. Join me for 20 minutes of sound and discovery!

Please consider supporting my channel by checking out my patreon: / theunperson

#rings #mutableinstruments #eurorack

0:00 - Intro
1:35 - Overview
3:16 - Drone
7:23 - FM Synthesis!
11:51 - External Audio In
15:02 - Hidden Mode Overview
16:48 - Final Jam!"

New Blaknblu MK2 Modules — Oscillators, Filters, and VCA's!

video upload by The Unperson

"Blaknblu have made some of my favourite Eurorack modules in recent years, especially the Oscar Tria oscillator and the Foxtrot Duo filter, so I was very happy to hear they’d updated the range with these MK2 versions.

The MK2 modules feature a completely new layout, more modulation throughout, and a number of new features that expand on the original designs.

In this video I give a quick overview of each module, Oscar Tria, Foxtrot Duo, Oscar DSF, and Alpha Duo, before putting them together in a series of patches.

Between the oscillators, filter, and VCA, this set of modules covers a full voice for modular synthesis, and with them all being stereo, they play very nicely together and the jams came very easy."

CONTENT
0:00 - Intro
1:36 - Oscar Tria
5:08 - FoxTrot Duo
7:19 - Oscar DSF
9:52 - Alpha Duo
11:19 - Distortion Jam
15:42 - Chord Jam
20:16 - FM and Sync
23:46 - Swarm Jam
26:29 - Final Thoughts & Outro

Can’t Believe How Good the MicroKorg Is

video upload by The Unperson

"In this video I revisit the legendary Korg MicroKorg — a synth that has remained one of the best-selling hardware instruments for over two decades.

Released in 2002, this compact virtual-analog powerhouse has appeared in countless studios, stages, and bedrooms around the world… but does it actually hold up today?

I explore the sound engine, presets, vocoder, arpeggiator, and hands-on controls, and put it through its paces in a modern setup to see whether the MicroKorg still deserves its iconic status — or whether nostalgia is doing the heavy lifting.

If you’ve ever wondered why this little synth refuses to disappear, this video should answer that question.

I have to admit that I was really blown away with the depth and quality of the MicroKorg. I think it's absolutely amazing! :D"

CONTENT
0:00 - Intro
1:39 - Basic Overview
3:06 - Osc 1
6:55 - Osc 2
8:36 - FX
11:44 - Mod Matrix
13:53 - Presets
22:05 - Vocoder
23:55 - Outro

PRESETS & SAMPLE PACKS
https://theunpers0n.gumroad.com/
https://theunperson.bandcamp.com/

Jamming with the Teenage Engineering EP-40 Riddim & Ting: dub, reggae & beyond

video upload by Signal Sounds

"The Unperson returns to the Signal Sounds channel to put Teenage Engineering’s new box through its paces! The EP-40 Riddim is the latest iteration of the EP-133 form factor, and it’s a whole heap of fun. It’s loaded with sounds inspired by reggae and dub styles, and the EP-2350 Ting microphone is the icing on the cake, with its voice transformer and sound effects.

Buy it here:
https://www.signalsounds.com/teenage-..."

Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
01:28 Supertone synth engines
04:47 Pressure-sensitive dub sirens
06:17 Ting microphone
08:28 Making a beat
10:59 Loop controls
13:23 Tape Stop effect
14:17 New performance parameters
17:52 Punch-in effects
18:46 Conclusion

With The Unperson

Bastl CITADEL - FX WIZARD Multi-effect processor & WAVE BARD Stereo Sample Player

video upload by Bastl Instruments

User videos:



Playlist:

1. Bastl Citadel Breakbeat Party - Stazma and Bastl Instruments
2. BASTL CITADEL! FX Wizard and Wave Bard Sampler comes to Eurorack! - The Unperson and Bastl Instruments
3. Bastl Citadel: A TWO-FACED friend with Samples + FX - Turbo Tambourine and Bastl Instruments

Check with dealers on the right for availability and price.

"Bastl CITADEL - Fortress of Modular Magic - is a Eurorack reimagination of the popular Kastle 2 semi-modular desktop device. The CITADEL comes with a full 3.5mm patch bay that offers the flexibility needed in the Eurorack format while maintaining the strengths of the Kastle 2 allowing it to stand on its own, and yet let it truly shine when patched with other modules. We’ve also added switches
for hands-on control of the pattern generator. The Citadel provides the basic infrastructure needed to integrate Eurorack systems within the context of electronic music making: headphone output, TRS MIDI input and sync, tempo generator with divider/multiplier, USB MIDI (from the back of the module), stereo mixing, integrated LFO and Pattern generator and effects. All that makes it the perfect module for smaller and beginner systems while the fun and unique creativity of the Kastle 2 firmwares:
the FX WIZARD multi-effect processor and WAVE BARD sample player will earn its place in
larger setups.

🛠️ Get Wave Bard & FX Wizard at the same time 🔃
The Citadel comes equipped with a reversible front panel with WAVE BARD on one side
and FX WIZARD on the other side. It also comes with our custom designed tool to make
the panel switching as seamless as possible. You can load and try different Citadel/Kastle 2
present and future firmwares and updates with a USB port (on the back).

The Citadel might break a few rules of standard Eurorack design, but it does so in the name
of instant musicality, fun, and effortless integration of Eurorack with other gear. The PITCH
inputs on the WAVE BARD track 1V/Oct, are factory-calibrated, and there’s even dedicated
calibration software to ensure a perfect match with your source."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Knobula - Monumatic. Epic Modular Eurorack Poly Synth!

video upload by The Unperson

"In today's video I am exploring a new module from Knobula called Monumatic. Monumatic is the successor the Poly Cinematic which was one of the first modules to bring polyphony to eurorack. Monumatic is a significant upgrade in pretty much every way. There are more waveforms, more filters, more effects, and most importantly more modulation! Another of my favourite features is that notes will overlap even using using gate and CV to control the module. This means you're not dependant on MIDI to access polyphony. If you'd like more info on this fully polyphonic synthesizer then head on over to:

https://www.knobula.com/product-page/...

CONTENT
0:00 - Intro
1:31 - Overview
6:32 - Gate/CV Jam
11:43 - Mono Jam
15:22 - Vocal Filter Jam
17:44 - Poly Jam
20:00 - Final Thoughts/Outro

Vongon Replay - Polyphonic Synthesizer!

video upload by The Unperson

"In today's video I am exploring the Vongon Replay polyphonic synthesizer. Inspired by classic instruments such as the Roland Juno and the Korg PolySix, Replay is a 6 voice digital poly synth with a pleasantly familiar interface. The simplicity of the the design and the quality of the oscillators and filter makes sound design a very enjoyable experience. I found it's one of those synths that can take you on a journey and I can see it being a regular player in my music life. I am a pretty big fan of this thing! For more info head on over to: https://www.vongon.com/products/replay

CONTENT
0:00 - Intro
1:05 - Overview
9:21 - Sound Montag
21:21: Final Thoughts
22:48 - Outro"

Melbourne Instruments NINA Multi-Track Sequencer Patterns by The Unperson

NINA Multi-Track Sequencer Patterns by The Unperson Melbourne Instruments Polyphonic Synth Groovebox video upload by Melbourne Instruments

"The Unperson explores some of the patterns he created for NINA's Multi-Track sequencer update. His patterns and sound are marked by crunchy, wobbly tones, saturated layers, and a touch of melancholy, offering an evocative listening experience. Inspired by unusual sounds and the art of sound design, The Unperson crafts patterns that explore texture and emotion, finding harmony between the unexpected and the familiar. All sounds and patterns created in this video were made exclusively with NINA's multi-track sequencer update.

Grab The Unperson patterns for NINA's Multi-Track Sequencer here: https://www.melbourneinstruments.com/... Check out The Unperson here: / theunperson [featured here]

NINA’s new multi-track sequencer delivers next-gen groovebox power with four independent polyrhythmic, polyphonic tracks. With per-step automation and motorized control, it brings hands-on precision to sequencing. This supercharges NINA’s analog synth engine, unlocking deeper performance possibilities. Add 64 new noise types — from percussive hits to loopable metallic textures and you’ve got a powerful tool for expressive sound design and dynamic rhythm creation. Find out more about NINA here: https://www.melbourneinstruments.com/...

Discover more at Melbourne Instruments
https://www.melbourneinstruments.com/"

Melbourne Instruments NINA - Firmware Update - Multi-Track Sequencer!

video upload by The Unperson

"In today's video I am exploring the latest firmware update for the Melbourne Instruments Nina which radically expands the sequencer from a quite basic 16-step sequencer into a multi-timbral, multi-track sequencer with an insane amount of new features. There is per-step parameter locking, loads of new noise hits for making percussion, as well as live recording making it incredibly easy to perform modulations and visually see what is being modulated. For more info head on over to the Melbourne Instruments website, where you can also find my presets for free!

https://www.melbourneinstruments.com/...

CONTENT
0:00 - Intro
1:23 - Overview
10:52 - Hopkins
13:33 - Funk
15:11 - Robots
17:08 - Sweets
18:34 - Outro"

NINA Multi Track Sequencer 2.1 Firmware Update: Melbourne Instruments Analog Polysynth Groovebox

video upload by Melbourne Instruments

"NINA's multi track sequencer firmware 2.1 is out now, NINA is no longer just a synthesizer — Unlock a standalone groovebox for beatmakers, producers, performers and sound designers. A groovebox for dynamic and expressive performance anywhere - studio or stage. Great for generating quick new ideas or work some amazing complexity into your music. This is all powered by NINA's raw analog oscillators, ladder filter and wavetable oscillator. Not forgetting the revolutionary motorized knobs that snap to life for hands-on, tactile interactive control, now you can feel your sound. Whether you’re crafting beats or complex melodic patterns, this next-gen groovebox workflow unlocks a completely new way to create.

All sounds and patterns in this video were created solely using NINA.

Key Features of the Multi-Track Sequencer:
• 4-Tracks—up to 64 steps with independent length per track, for polyrhythmic sequencing.
• Per-step Automation—front panel parameters can be locked per step.
• Polyphonic Sequencing — up to 12 voices available spread across 4 tracks.
• 64 Noise types — percussive hits, metallic textures, buzzes and digital percussion.
• Motorized Automation— you can see the front panel move, turn automation on/off.
• Time-based features —shuffle, micro-timing, clock multiplication, variable gate lengths, and probability.
• Perform patterns—recall and chain up to 16 patterns.
• Internal Storage for more than 4,000 patterns.
• Save a pattern with all sound and sequencer data in save into a single file.
• Standalone operation— no other gear required. Of course NINA works well with other gear too!
• New features include: timing quantization, clear notes and clear steps.

Thanks to all the artists who contributed to this video, follow them here:
00:42 The Unperson @TheUnperson
01:28 Oora @OoraMusic
01:57 Tom Hall / tomhallsonics
02:33 Honeysmack / _honeysmack_
03:23 Tomo in der Muhlen / tomo.raw
03:59 Jonti / jontidanimals

Download 2.1 firmware here:
https://www.melbourneinstruments.com/...
NINA owners can request their free magnetic overlay from:
https://www.melbourneinstruments.com/...

Discover more at Melbourne Instruments

https://www.melbourneinstruments.com/"

Maneco Labs Grone: a monster drone synth with built-in Clouds!

video upload by Signal Sounds

"The Unperson puts the Maneco Labs Grone Eurorack drone voice through its paces. This Eurorack module combines a digital VCO, an MS20-style filter and a clone of Mutable Instruments Clouds into one powerful machine for all your granular droning needs!

Buy here: https://www.signalsounds.com/maneco-g...

And check out the rest of the Maneco range: https://www.signalsounds.com/maneco-l..."

Jamming with the Maneco Labs 16 Seconds Delay: a classic digital effect recreated for Eurorack

video upload by Signal Sounds

"We let The Unperson work his magic on the Maneco 16 Seconds Delay - a recreation of the classic Electro-Harmonix effects pedal from 1983. It's proudly hand-built in Uruguay by Maneco Labs, creators of the Grone Drone Machine Eurorack, tabletop and pedal drone generators, among many others.

Available here in Eurorack and pedal formats:
https://www.signalsounds.com/maneco-1...
https://www.signalsounds.com/maneco-1..."

Signal Sounds favourite music gear of 2024

video upload by Signal Sounds

"To round off a cracking 2024 in the world of music tech, we asked a few of our staff and some good friends of the store to pick their favourite pieces of gear of the year.

All the gear mentioned is available to buy or pre-order here:

https://www.signalsounds.com/teenage-...

https://www.signalsounds.com/soundfor...

https://www.signalsounds.com/arturia-...

https://www.signalsounds.com/joranalo...

https://www.signalsounds.com/melbourn...

https://www.signalsounds.com/expert-s...

https://www.signalsounds.com/future-s...

https://www.signalsounds.com/ryk-modu...

Chapters
00:00 Luke
01:54 DivKid
03:21 Michael Manning
04:53 Tom Churchill
06:42 Molly
07:52 Kyle
09:22 Aleks
10:46 The Unperson"

FREE! Melbourne Instruments NINA Preset Pack!

video upload by The Unperson

"I’m excited to share a new project I’ve been working on—a collection of presets for Melbourne Instruments' Nina synthesizer. I love making sound packs, and this was a great opportunity to dive into Nina and see how far I could push it. I’m not a big keyboard player, so my focus was on letting the synthesizer take centre stage, pulling out some weird and wonderful sounds along the way.

The preset pack is available as a free download here:

https://www.melbourneinstruments.com/..."

Artist Picks: Best Music Gear of 2024 (Part 1)

video upload by Perfect Circuit

Check out the accompanying article on our blog, Signal

"2024 is soon drawing to a close—so, we're taking a look back at the year, and taking account of all of the weird and wonderful instruments that gave us some inspiration this year. Synthesizers, drum machines, and Eurorack modules to samplers and effects, this year had no shortage of inspiring instruments.

So, we reached out to some of our friends and content creators to fill us in on their year, asking one simple question: what was the coolest piece of gear YOU got this year? For some, that meant brand-new releases, but for others, it meant sitting down and digging into classic instruments.

In this video, we hear from:
0:05 Andrew Huang on the Elektron Digitakt II
1:36 Starsky Carr on the Pittsburgh Voltage Lab 2
6:30 Molten Music Tech on the Gamechanger Plasma Voice
11:36 Cyberattack on the Vongon Replay
13:48 The Unperson on the Melbourne Delia
Mark Johnston on the UA Apollo x8p Gen 2

Check out the accompanying article on our blog, Signal"

You can find additional Artist Picks: Best Music Gear of 2024 posts here.

Getting hands-on with the Synthux Academy Touch 2

video upload by Signal Sounds

"The Unperson gets his hands on the Synthux Academy Touch 2: an instrument designed for tactile interaction. Thanks to its growing library of open-source instruments, it can be a thick bass, distorting string, delay, reverb, distortion and pretty much anything in between!

Available here:
https://www.signalsounds.com/synthux-...

More info:
https://www.synthux.academy/simple-sy..."