ARTURIA Introduces AstroLab 37 | Avant-garde stage keyboard

video uploads by Arturia

Check with dealers on the right for availability and pricing.

"Imagine a compact keyboard uniting the most iconic sounds in a single instrument. Engineered for liftoff, AstroLab 37 redefines what a compact performance keyboard can be, combining an unrivalled sound palette, intuitive controls, and a seamless studio-to-stage workflow – play and create beyond limits."

Playlist:

1. AstroLab 37 | Avant-garde stage keyboard | ARTURIA
2. Overview | AstroLab 37
3. Is the Arturia AstroLab 37 the Best Compact Stage Keyboard? - Reverb (available here)
4. Arturia Astrolab 37 vs 61/88 // and a cheat to give it more hands-on control // Review, tutorial - loopop
5. Arturia AstroLab 37 Review – After 6 Weeks of Real Use - Sineway
6. Arturia Astrolab 37 Review - Molten Music Technology
7. Is this the Ultimate Portable Performance Synth? Arturia AstroLab 37 Review & Demo - Starsky Carr

"Arturia releases AstroLab 37, a compact stage keyboard that brings the full power of the AstroLab ecosystem into a portable, performance-ready format.

Completing the AstroLab line-up, it delivers the same deep sound engines, streamlined workflow, and studio-to-stage continuity as the 61- and 88-key models - now in a 37-key, road-ready design that makes it the ultimate creative companion on the move.

_Ignite your inspiration
Engineered for liftoff, AstroLab 37 redefines what a compact performance keyboard can be. Combining an unrivalled sound palette with intuitive controls and a seamless studio-to-stage experience - perform with confidence and limitless sonic freedom.

Featuring a 37-key slim keybed with aftertouch, a vocoder, and powerful creative tools, turn any idea into fast-moving solos, dynamic leads, and unforgettable hooks."



AstroLab 37 packs the power of the AstroLab range into a compact format.

Engineered for liftoff, AstroLab 37 redefines what a compact performance keyboard can be. Combining an unrivaled sound palette with intuitive controls and a seamless studio-to-stage experience, it empowers musicians to perform with confidence and limitless sonic freedom.

Built on 25 years of innovation, it frees keyboardists from constraints with 11 advanced sound engines, seamless workflow, and a playing experience that’s intuitive, expressive, and fearless.

This isn’t just a new keyboard. It’s a new era.

Ignite your inspiration.

Instantly access a universe of reference synths, classic keyboards, acoustic instruments, and cinematic hybrids - all deeply customizable via onboard controls. The 37 slim-key slim keyboard with aftertouch, vocoder, and performance modes turns ideas into fast-moving solos, dynamic leads, and unforgettable hooks.

Own the stage.

Purpose-built for live: rugged, responsive, and completely standalone. Power up, pick a sound, shape it in real-time and deliver pure musical expression wherever you play - ultra-low latency.

Compact by design.

From studios and stages to bedrooms and DJ booths, AstroLab 37 adapts to every space. Road-ready construction, expressive keys, and instant sound recall make it the ultimate creative companion on the move.

Made to explore.

Edit your presets on-the-fly or dive deeper with Analog Lab on desktop or AstroLab Connect on mobile. Seamlessly transition between studio and stage and let your creativity flow uninterrupted, exactly the way you want it.

AstroLab 37 is a versatile, lightweight companion for musicians who move between studio, stage, and multi-instrument setups — ideal as a second keyboard for band members, a flexible live instrument, or a portable tool for producers on the go.

● 44 instruments, 11 sound engines, 1.800+ presets
● 37 slim keys with aftertouch
● 10 instant-access preset buttons
● 4 macro knobs with LED feedback
● 4 FX knobs, including dedicated Delay & Reverb
● Vocoder-ready mono input
● Color screen + navigation encoder for fast browsing
● Software ecosystem: Analog Lab Pro + AstroLab Connect
● Extensive connectivity: MIDI I/O, USB-C, USB-A host, balanced
mono I/O, mic input, Bluetooth audio, WiFi, pedal input

CLICK FOR MORE »

100 Oberheim Expander/Matrix12 single FX patches by Arthur Springer

video upload by Really Nice Audio

"So whilst on soak test I came across this crazy bank:
Notes from the .txt
ART SPRINGER STRIKES AGAIN (free)
Reviewed by Mike Metlay

All right, gang, I know what you're expecting in this space, so I'll oblige you and get it over with. Ready? Here goes: "WAHOOLAZUMA! Everybody's favorite twisted puppy is back from the audio torture chamber, and he's brewed up the most brain-slashing package of monstrous elektronoyze EVER! This stuff's great for warping your brain patterns, killing your cat, etc..."

Okay. Happy now? Good, now let's get serious. I heard from Art recently that he didn't get a terribly good response to his first mailing, and that few, if any, XUG members looked him up for his second set of patches

He seemed in a pretty good humor about it, but I couldn't help wondering if my presentation of his patch set didn't scare a lot of people away just by the wording. So, with a new patch set from Art (more diverse than the first two) in hand, I'd like to try again.

One of the most unhealthy trends I see in today's patch-editing software is the patch randomizer, that cute but overused utility that generates random patches at the click of a mouse. Literally thousands of these random patches are being sold by unscrupulous hackers as "original sounds," and a whole new generation of MIDI morons is springing up (pardon the pun) whose idea of "good programming chops" is the ability to tweak a randomly generated sound into something that (almost) works. No program of this type exists yet for the xpander, and I'm glad of it: the lack of computer-generated garbage on the market forces the user community to seek one another for new ideas, rather than some electronic I Ching. We come together in this Group to share ideas and learn from one another and I believe that studying another human being's work beats watching a computer coughing up random numbers. Which brings us to the music of Art Springer.

In my opinion, these patches are important. VERY important. I get so enthused about Art's work because I see in him a reflection of my college days, when I puttered about with ARP and Buchla modular monsters creating sounds for the sheer joy of it, putting together tonalities never before heard on Earth rather than trying to make a realistic shakuhachi. This was, and often still is, the meat and potatoes of electronic music to me. And when I hear Art telling me that people- Xpander users!-are returning his work because it's "too weird," I know something's wrong. The Xpander isn't a sampler or a digital piano. It's not an imitative instrument by nature. It's a powerful, multiply interfaceable modular synthesizer with a great deal of flexibility. Art Springer takes a stance on its use that no other Group member has had the courage to try: using its Power as a CV percussion device to enhance the sounds of his more traditionally oriented synths. (By the way, Lionel and I are big fans of his music ... it's not as inaccessible as you might think, and the odd tonalities make his dance pieces a lot of fun.) This is a new idea to a lot of you, and I don't blame you for being frightened. But it's better to learn from someone whose ideas differ from yours than to convince a computer to feed you something safe. I'd like to suggest something simple to start with: get one of Art's sound sets, trigger your Xpander with your drumbox, and try writing music with these sounds as part of the atmosphere rather than conventional drum noises. Or do something completely different. The important thing is to try to expand (hm) your horizons to something new. These sounds of Art's do take getting used to, but I think you'll learn a lot from them. Trust me."

Generative Patches: Behringer Edge+Crave+Spice Live Jam Demo

video upload by Anton Anru

"🟪🟧🟥 ECS Generative is a collection of 25 patches (+Crave patterns) for the semi-modular system by Behringer: EDGE + CRAVE + SPICE.
This genre of sound design is highly popular within modular culture, and the Behringer synths offer an excellent feature set to explore it.
Controlled chaos and randomness, probability, non-repetitiveness, tempo shifts, pattern uniqueness, the alternation of short and long sounds, unexpected changes, silence and density, harmonic and FX-like tones, and glitchy bursts throughout sequences — all of these elements are part of the soundset.

📦 Get these patches: https://antonanru.sellfy.store/p/ecs-...

CLICK FOR MORE »

Sonicware ELZ_1 Play | Ambient explorations

video upload by Jay Hosking

"Please support my work on Patreon: / jayhosking
Two ambient pieces composed and performed live on the ELZ_1 Play, with effects.

00:00 - Song 1
04:22 - Song 2

Sonicware sent the ELZ_1 Play over for me to explore because of its big new firmware update. To be honest, there is an overwhelming number of synth engines and effects within the ELZ_1 Play and I only briefly explored the options with any systematicity. Most of the time, I found the synth was a nice device to tweak presets or dial in a sound quickly based on a particular engine type.

A few of the synth engines are quite beautiful and unique, including some tuned noise that it is really pretty. For these explorations, I was mainly drawn to sounds I can't normally make on my other synths, like electric pianos or organs. The options to make and tweak whatever you want are there, but they require you navigating the menus to find them. That aspect works perfect well, but mostly I found the ELZ_1 Play was a great couch device where I noodle.

The biggest and best surprise was definitely the looper, which allows you to have four separate, synchonized or asynchronous loops just spinning away. The looper is an easy way to quickly find inspiration and compose something new.

For these live performances, I've also paired the ELZ_1 Play with a few effects to extend or build the ambient sketch into something a little more complete. The Walrus Qi adds some granular, delay, chorus, and reverb to the finale of the first piece, and the Meris Polymoon adds its phased delay-verb to the second. I also thought I'd try the Soma Cosmos as a different take on the looping idea for the second track.

Overall, I found the ELZ_1 Play to be a good companion for those tired days where all the music-making energy I had was on the couch. Having so many engine types meant I could explore new sounds, and having the asynchronous looper meant I was often quickly in the territory of a full piece.

Thanks for listening.

https://jayhosking.bandcamp.com"

Greaten AP-500 Pro EWI Review: 120 Sounds, Voice Control & USB MIDI Demo! - an overall upgrade

video upload by Floyd Steinberg

Also see: Greaten AP300 pro EWI demo and review

"The Greaten AP-500 Pro Electronic Wind Instrument ( https://greaten-music.myshopify.com/c... ) is the powerful successor to last year's AP-300. In this video, I explore all the new features, enhancements, and sound upgrades that make the AP-500 Pro a serious contender for wind synth enthusiasts.



🎷 What's inside the box?

🎛️ Hardware upgrades: lighter body, better screen, more octave rollers

🎚️ New features: 120 sounds, voice control, Bluetooth audio & MIDI, USB MIDI for VST and hardware synths

🎵 Sound comparisons: Soprano Sax, Clarinet, Trombone, Shakuhachi — old vs new

🎹 Effects: reverb, chorus, filters, layering, patch saving

🎤 Bonus: @XavierRadix demo with Tenor Sax




Whether you're a saxophonist, EWI player, or synth lover, this deep dive shows how the AP-500 Pro pushes expressive control and connectivity to the next level."



📌 Chapters:

CLICK FOR MORE »

Sequential & Oberheim Announce Free OS Updates for Take5 & TEO-5 Adding Poly Chain and More

video upload by Sequential

"The Take 5 Poly Chain OS update is free to download! Link two units together for a massive 10-voice polysynth, explore 10 new arpeggiator modes like Spiral and Leapfrog, and experience Whiplash arp timing for dynamic rhythmic transformations. Plus, dive into fresh sound design possibilities with selectable violet noise for shimmering, airy textures. This update is all about bigger chords, deeper creativity, and inspiring new sonic landscapes! It's your Take 5 to the power of 10.

Synth sounds and drums exclusively by Take 5. Music composed by Peter Dyer.

For more information on the Take 5 Poly Chain OS Update, visit Sequential at: https://sequential.com/take-5-poly-ch..."

TEO 5 Poly Chain OS Update

video upload by Oberheim Official

"Elevate your TEO-5 with the new Poly Chain OS update! Link two TEOs together for a lush 10-voice Oberheim experience, explore 10 inspiring arpeggiator modes like Spiral and Leapfrog, and add rhythmic drama with Whiplash arp timing. Plus, expand your sound palette with violet noise for shimmering and airy textures. Step up to bigger chords, deeper creativity, and fresh sonic possibilities!

All sounds from TEO-5. Music by Peter Dyer

Learn more at https://oberheim.com/products/teo-5-p..."

And a user video by Devin Belanger, aka Miles Away:

Take 5 & TEO-5 Firmware Update // First Look + Demo (Polychain, New Features & Sounds)

video upload by Devin Belanger

"First look at the brand new firmware update for the Oberheim TEO-5 & Sequential Take 5. This update adds Polychain, new arp modes, noise options, and more — giving these synths a serious upgrade. In this video I’ll walk through what’s new and demo some of the new sounds in action."

Press releases follow:

Sequential Announces Free OS Update for Take 5 Synthesizer — Adds Poly Chain and More


OS Update introduces 10-voice Poly Chain, new arpeggiator patterns, Whiplash arp timing mode, and violet noise.

San Francisco, CA — November 6, 2025— Sequential today announced a major OS update for its popular Take 5 polyphonic synthesizer, delivering powerful new features that expand its creative capabilities. This update is free for all Take 5 owners and is available now from the Sequential website.

The centerpiece of the update is Poly Chain, which allows two Take 5s to be linked for a fully integrated 10-voice instrument. This means players can perform bigger chords and more complex arrangements without worrying about voice stealing. All front-panel controls are mirrored from one unit to the other for seamless sound tweaking, as if they were a single, expanded synth.

The arpeggiator gets a serious creative boost with 10 new play modes designed to inspire fresh rhythmic and melodic ideas. Modes like Spiral and Leapfrog introduce surprising new musical elements, creating parts that feel alive. These patterns go beyond simple up-and- down motion, using virtual “playheads” to weave intricate note paths, adding new flavor to your compositions.

Another standout feature is Whiplash, a new timing mode that keeps each arpeggiator cycle the same length regardless of how many notes you hold. The result? Notes bunch together or spread apart dynamically, producing rhythmic tension and release that stays in-step with the overall bar-length of your composition.

Finally, the update also adds violet noise, which emphasizes high frequencies while reducing low-end content. This opens up new possibilities for sound design, from smooth and shimmering textures to airy percussive layers.

"Musicians love the sound of Take 5, and we get asked regularly for ways to expand the polyphony," said David Gibbons, CEO of Sequential.

"This new software makes it possible to use it as a massive 10-voice synth — while also adding some fun and creative new capabilities."

The Sequential Take 5 combines classic Prophet-5 tone with a compact, portable design and an intuitive layout that feels great to play. With five voices of polyphony (and now ten with a desktop module companion), authentic analog oscillators, the iconic Prophet-5 filter, and deep modulation options, it’s the perfect gateway to Sequential’s legendary sound.

Download now, or get more details and hear the new Poly Chain OS features in action at https://sequential.com/take-5-poly-chain-os-update/



Oberheim Releases Free OS Update for TEO-5 Synthesizer — Adds Poly Chain and More


OS Update introduces 10-voice Poly Chain, new arpeggiator patterns, Whiplash arp timing mode, and violet noise.

San Francisco, CA — November 6, 2025— Oberheim today announced a free OS update for its acclaimed TEO-5 synthesizer, adding powerful new features that make the instrument even more versatile and inspiring. The update is now available for download from Oberheim's website.

The highlight of the update is Poly Chain, enabling two TEO-5 units to be linked for a fully synchronized 10-voice Oberheim experience. This allows for complex chords and lush textures without compromise, and all panel controls are mirrored across both units for consistent sound and performance.

Additionally, the arpeggiator now includes 10 new play modes that go far beyond traditional patterns. Modes like Spiral and Leapfrog introduce new rhythm and melody, creating parts that twist, turn, and evolve in ways that spark creativity.

Also new is Whiplash, a timing mode that keeps each arpeggiator cycle the same length no matter how many keys you hold. This means the note values shift dynamically, producing rhythmic tension and release that stays in-step with the overall bar-length of your composition.

To round out the update, violet noise joins the sonic palette. With its emphasis on high frequencies and reduced low-end content, violet noise is ideal for creating smooth shimmering textures, airy effects, and unique percussive elements.

"TEO-5 was designed to bring the classic Oberheim sound to more players," said Tom Oberheim. "This update pushes that vision further — adding features that make it even more useful and inspiring."

TEO-5 combines authentic Oberheim tone with modern creative tools. With true analog oscillators, the legendary SEM filter, linear through-zero FM, and a deep modulation matrix, TEO-5 offers a vast sonic palette in a compact, performance-ready design. Take the next step with TEO-5 and download the Poly Chain OS Update today.

The TEO-5 OS update is now available for free download at https://oberheim.com/products/teo-5-poly-chain-os-update/

Rhythmical & Atmospheric Arturia Pigments Ambient IDM Sounds

video upload by Anton Anru

"🔊 Noise Canvas is a collection of 50 presets for Arturia Pigments. It includes: 21 Rhythmical Timbres, 6 Arps, 10 Synths, 7 Pads, 2 Keys, 2 Strings, 1 Seq, and 1 Pluck. Each patch delivers lo-fi, noise-driven textures designed to command attention—gritty and characterful. Beyond the rhythmic core, this collection includes a selection of deeply immersive, evolving pad textures.

📦 Get these sounds: https://antonanru.sellfy.store/p/pigm...
👤 The author of the soundset is usefull.
Minifreak and Pigments presets can be imported into Arturia Analog Lab V.
If you like these sounds but don’t have Minifreak or Pigments and only own the Analog Lab V plugin, you can still purchase these sets and load them into Analog Lab V.

🎧 How it sounds
Lo-fi noise synth sounds with analog warmth and digital edge
Textured, rhythm-centric patches that pulse, crackle, and evolve
Distorted, saturated tones ranging from subtle grit to full-on chaos
Attention-grabbing presence—perfect for leads and hooks

CLICK FOR MORE »

ARTURIA Introduces KeyStep mk2 | Step Into Your Next Idea

video upload by Arturia

Check with dealers on the right for pricing and availability.

"The KeyStep DNA, evolved. With expanded connectivity, real-time generative tools and hands-on OLED control, KeyStep mk2 refines every detail of the original - letting you shape, transform, and perform ideas faster than ever."

Tutorial | KeyStep mk2 - Overview

video upload by Arturia

"Join Brendan for an introductory tour of KeyStep mk2. Discover its core features from advanced sequencing and generative sound creation to OLED control and deep CV/MIDI/USB-C connectivity - a centrepiece for hybrid setups and keeping your ideas evolving.

_CHAPTERS
00:00 Intro
00:54 Front Panel
01:51 Sequencer
03:50 Sequencer & Mutate
06:04 Scale Mode
06:22 Chord Mode
06:57 Arpeggiator
10:11 Extra Features & Back Panel"

User videos:



Playlist:

1. Talking New Keystep MK2 with Arturia’s Product Manager | Generative Arp, Mutate & Sequencer Upgrades - Noisegate
2. Arturia KEYSTEP MK2 // It's not an update, it’s a new composition workflow // v2 Review, tutorial - loopop
3. Arturia KeyStep Mk2 Review - Did they ruin it? - Molten Music Technology
4. Is this cheating? Arturia Keystep MKII // Generate and Mutate at will!! - Starsky Carr

_Step into your next idea

The original KeyStep became a modern classic by giving musicians a simple, reliable way to bridge modular, hardware, and software instruments.

With KeyStep mk2, that formula has evolved in every way that makes sense - becoming more creative, more connected, and more immediate than ever. It introduces Mutate and generative tools, a bright OLED display, and a redesigned sequencer and arpeggiator that make idea generation effortless. KeyStep mk2 is priced at $139 in the USA and 129 € (or $129) in other regions.

_What’s new with KeyStep mk2

Patch into modular, trigger drum machines, and control synths from past and present. With USB-C reliability, DIN MIDI I/O, assignable CV outs, and pedal support, KeyStep mk2 is ready to command any setup - live, in the studio, or on the move.

More creative idea generation

Mutate, Spice/Dice, and real-time transforms for instant variation.

Hardware-first control

OLED display + clickable encoder reduces reliance on MIDI Control Center.

Better connectivity

USB-C, power switch, and an extra CV out (Mod 2) alongside MIDI DIN, Sync I/O, and pedal input.

Upgraded sequencer

8× more memories, unquantized recording, Bend & Mod automation, Undo, step edit, pattern chaining.

Smarter arpeggiator

Classic Arpeggios, Arp Reset to turn arps into phrases, Generative "Arp Pattern" mode provides all sorts of fresh melodies, basslines, chords, using the keys that are pressed.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Anthony Marinelli Music Synth Studio Revealed | Studio Tour 2025

video upload by Anthony Marinelli Music

"I finally agreed to make a video showing my synthesizer studio. I'm NOT a collector, so you'll see the instruments I've used for over four decades to do my work. It's also my space for composing. In this deep dive studio tour, I walk you through every corner of my space, showing how everything’s connected for performing, recording, and creative flow.

You’ll see icons like the 'Plantasia' Moog Modular IIIc, Synclavier II, Rhodes Chroma with Expander & Enabler, Oberheim Four Voice, Elka Synthex, Roland Jupiter 8, Sequential Circuits Prophet-5, ARP 2600s, Korg MS modular synths, some classic Minimoog — plus a few modern synths I’ve added as I look to the future. Alongside the synths are vintage drum machines, string machines, and rare electric keyboards including a 1973 Fender Rhodes Suitcase and Hohner Clavinet/Pianet Duo.

We'll also explore racks of outboard gear, vocoder units, tape echoes, and a vast array of my custom guitar pedal options, efx pedal boards and studio effects racks that make this room endlessly inspiring. I'll also reveal how my entire studio is designed for instant creativity, featuring 48 channels of synth drivers and stage boxes, so any synth can be patched and recorded on the fly."

https://anthonymarinellimusic.com/pages/about

CLICK FOR MORE »

Stylophone CPM DF-8 - What is a "Dynamic Multi-Filter" anyway?

video upload by Oscillator Sink

"The Stylophone CPM DF-8 is the follow up to the well received (and for good reason!) DS-2 drone synth. Rather than being a synth first, the DF-8 is a dual/stereo filter at heart, but it has a good few tricks up its sleeve that might elevate it from being 'just a filter'.

The DF-8 will be released 20th November 2025 and the RRP is: £229 | €269 | $299

Transparency notice: I was sent the DF-8 prototype as a beta-tester, and was allowed to keep the unit to make videos about it. I wasn't otherwise paid, and Dubreq have had no editorial oversight on this video.

Chapters
00:00 Intro
01:19 Feature overview
06:03 Filter mode demo and comparison
14:46 DF-8 as an instrument (+ testing filter tracking)
18:13 The VCA and envelopes.
20:19 Audio Envelope Triggers (compression and transient shaping)
26:57 Building a Stereo Filter patch
37:59 Summing Up"

This Makes Anything Sound Amazing// Stylophone DF-8 Filter / Mutator and then some... Filter Demo

video upload by Starsky Carr

"Ever wondered what happens when Stylophone — the quirky British maker of those pocket synths from the ‘60s — decides to build a serious analogue filter with the remake of the classic Mutronics Mutator filter chip and the screaming madman from the *Stylophone GenR8*? Meet the *Stylophone CPM DF-8*, a gritty, super flexible and occasionally unpredictable beast that turns any signal into pure lo-fi magic.

THE STYLOPHONE CPM DF-8 ANALOG DYNAMIC MULTI-FILTER
RELEASE DATE: 20TH NOV '25
PRICE: £229 | €269 | $299

In this video, I dive into the DF-8 showing how it reacts to drums, synths, and even full mixes. Expect sweeps, growls, distortion, and plenty of Character. This isn’t your average boutique filter — it’s dirty, chaotic, and full of charm.

You’ll hear:

The raw filter tone and resonance range
How it shapes synths and drum machines
Drive, envelope and modulation tricks
Whether it’s worth adding to your studio or live setup

If you love sound design, modular gear, or just discovering weird musical devices, this one’s for you."

Additional Stylophone CPM DF-8 posts

Looking Outside: Synthesizer and Eurorack Performance

video upload by MKustomAudio

"Three tracks created by using standalone synthesizers and eurorack modules. Sequenced from the Squarp Hermod+, I thought about recording everything simultaneously, but I decided to record it in groups to allow for more hands on manipulation of the equipment.

For drums, samples were loaded into the 1010music 'Bitbox Micro' with the following modules also used for processing the summed samples: Make Noise 'QPAS', Xaoc 'Koszalin', Qu Bit 'Mojave' and 'Nautilus', Erica Synths 'Blackhole DSP 2', Qu Bit 'Data Bender' (triggered/modulated using the Make Noise '0-CTRL'), and Noise Engineering 'Librae Legio'.

For synthesizers, the following hardware was used: Sonicware 'Evoke', Korg 'Arp 2600m' and 'Minilogue XD', Sequential 'OB-6 Desktop', Novation 'Peak' and 'Circuit Mono Station'.

Forward Momentum 0:00
Revival 3:59
Through the Window 8:20

Tracks are also available to download from the following link:
https://mkustomaudio.bandcamp.com/alb..."

Evolving Riddle-4

video upload by Memetune Studio

"Yesterday a new part of the riddle arrived in the post - a beautiful Ensoniq SD1!

The SD1 is a Transwave Rompler workstation from 1990

Did you know that Ensoniq founder Bob Yannes invented the Rompler as we know it (and also the SID chip)? The very first one was called the ESQ1 and came out in 1986, the year before the Roland D50, and then all the other ones from Korg, Yamaha, Kawai, Emu, Alesis, and Kurzweil, each quickly developing their own digital rom chips. Actually Bob used single cycle waveforms stored in rom, but the basic structure and concept of the ESQ1 is what became the rompler. It had 3 simple rom-based VCOs that could be layered and sent through an analog filter. It is a wonderful, epoch defining synth - totally underrated IMO

It was enhanced and repackaged as the SQ80 in 1988 as a fully realised Rompler with more memory for the read-only samples

Their follow up was the VFX which added Transwave synthesis - a bit like the PPG wavetable idea where you can move through the waveform and modulate it. However the VFX had some reliability issues and was replaced a year later by the SD1 which also added a sequencer, and more voices and memory

And this is what we have here - mixed in with the other synths - Quadrasynth, TG33, Waldorf Microwave2 and the Roland JV1080

The reverbs are the Lexicon 224X and the Quantum Room Simulator

There is one part of the riddle left to make - I'll try and work on it tomorrow. Then I will release them all as an album - 'Evolving Riddles' by Benge 😀"

The Florian Schneider Collection to Be Auctioned at JULIEN*S November 19

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

via JULIEN*S

"THE FLORIAN SCHNEIDER COLLECTION

Auction to be held at Musician's Hall of Fame & Museum, Nashville, on November 19

An incredible collection of more than 450 artifacts from the life and career of Florian Schneider, co-founder of the pioneer electronic band Kraftwerk."

Pics and videos featuring some of the gear below, and his Lederhosen for good measure (thanks greg!).

Update: the post has been fully updated with all the synth related gear. This may just well be the longest post to be featured on the site. I wanted to capture all the pics for all of the details including notes, scuffs, and of course serial numbers. It's an interesting look into what he used, the condition he keped his gear, in some cases, how he actually used his gear. Note the phonetics on the keys of the Casio CZ-101 and DX-100. Note the Midi Switch Box with a built-in speaker? What's that about? Note the camouflage key strap on the Korg RK-100 Remote Keyboard. Did he pick it out himself or did the keytar just come with it? Note the repeat midi controllers and the MIDI saxaphones. Wind was his primary instrument. You'll find a ton of the acoustic gear he used in the other listings. This is a fascinating insight into both what and how he used his gear.

Side note: there is no affiliate compensation for this post. The note at the top automatically shows for all posts with the Auction label.


Rack Mount Sennheiser VSM-201 Vocoder

Starting Bid $5,000

Estimate $20,000 - $40,000 USD

A late 1970s Sennheiser VSM 201 Vocoder with no serial number from the personal studio and collection of Florian Schneider of Kraftwerk (see images). While it’s said that only a few dozen of these Vocoders were produced, a few examples made it into the hands of forward-thinking musical artists including Herbie Hancock, Daft Punk, and of course, Kraftwerk, who used a VSM-201 like this on their albums Man Machine (1978) and Computerworld (1981). The VSM-201 has an intelligible sound that has not yet been bested by modern gear. Includes power cable. This VSM-201 has been removed from its wooden enclosure (which bears the serial number plate) and modified with a metal rack mount casing, presumably for live use. Requires 240v, IEC power cable not included.

Dimensions: 19 x 9 x 9 inches

Category: Kraftwerk, Equipment

Provenance: PROVENANCE From the Estate of Florian Schneider

CLICK FOR MORE »

myVolts making the world's first isolated power hub and I think it's going to disappoint you.

video upload by myVolts

"Here at myVolts, we're making the Silent Alchemist:
https://myvolts.com/SilentAlchemist
It's the World's first Isolated power hub for Synths and Pedals, we're really proud of it. But we also want you to have the right expectation. The first of anything comes with a few unknown unknowns. We want to make a product that is convenient, affordable, flexible and also available!
So we're letting you know how we've put all our experience power devices for over 20 years into making sure you have the a great product that meets your expectation.
Please let us know in the comments what you think."

Reverb names Ben Stahl as new Chief Executive Officer

Press release follows:

Reverb names Ben Stahl as new Chief Executive Officer
Longtime leader in creative industries brings background in music and marketplaces

Tuesday, October 14, 2025 —Reverb, the largest online marketplace dedicated to music gear, today announced that Ben Stahl has been named as the company’s new Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately.

“Over the past 12 years, I’ve admired the vibrant platform Reverb has built for musicians across the globe, and I’m honored to be part of the community,” said Stahl. “Whether we’re launching new product features to empower buyers and sellers or unlocking new modes of sonic expression for players through Reverb content, our mission remains the same: to make the world more musical.”

Stahl’s appointment follows his leadership roles at community-driven creator platforms SoundCloud and Vimeo, where he focused on user feedback to inform product improvements and drive business growth. At SoundCloud, Stahl launched artist-focused mastering and distribution tools and piloted user-centric royalties to help independent musicians earn more for their work. At Vimeo, Stahl introduced creator-focused features including Vimeo Live Streaming, seamless video editor integrations, and the fastest uploading experience on the Internet.

At Reverb, Stahl plans to put the platform’s thriving community of buyers, sellers, creators, and brands at the forefront of every decision, leaning into the marketplace's newfound independence to create exceptional products that serve musicians of all levels and unlock growth across the global MI industry.

In the last six months, Reverb’s efforts to better connect music makers with gear through features such as Wallet and sell in-store have helped sellers discover increased demand from musicians eager to try out different guitars, synths, pedals, and more. Looking ahead, a greater focus on building symbiotic partnerships with sellers will be key to Reverb’s mission, as will introducing buyers with gear they’ll love, helping Reverb play a greater role in uplifting the entire musical instrument industry.


About Reverb
Reverb is the largest online marketplace dedicated to music gear. Since launching in 2013, Reverb has helped millions of music makers find the perfect piece of gear from its trusted community of music shops, top brands, and other music makers around the world. Built by musicians and gear lovers, Reverb combines one of the largest selections of musical instruments with tools to help music makers find music gear that inspires them and a passionate musical community to connect with. Sales on Reverb help support Reverb Gives, which provides youth music programs with musical instruments.

Edge+Crave+Spice 50 Combo Patches & Samples. Live Sound Demo

video upload by Anton Anru

"🟪🟧🟥 ECS Combo is a collection of 50 combo patches for the semi-modular system by Behringer: EDGE + CRAVE + SPICE.
This collection includes basses, drums/percussion, leads, plucks, textures, and FX. The sound palette covers a wide spectrum: massive and gentle, aggressive and soft, bright and muted, melodic and inharmonic tones, straight and polymetric patterns.

📦 Get these patches: https://antonanru.sellfy.store/p/ecs-...

CLICK FOR MORE »

TOM-1501 Soviet Analog Synthesizer - Restored Beauty

video upload by LFOstore

"Russian synths are awful and making terrible harsh and strange sounds?

If you think so, then this will surprise everyone who is familiar with those synths. This is really fat, warm, beautiful sounding real analog, preset string machine.

It's a string machine with 5 preset sounds: Piano, clavesin/Harpsichord, Alto, Violin and Brass.

Alto and Violin are exactly same sound but violin is one octave higher than alto, so you can make "string orchestra" sound.

Mainly I discovered this to be like Crumar Orchestrator/Multiman-s clone. Piano and clavesin/harpsichords are pretty identical sounding, but... Strings aren't typical "Italic" sounding which can be found on all crumar and some others string machines, Neither european (solina) or american (Moog opus) sounding.

They are Unique! They are Fat! They are Warm! They are very beautiful sounding strings. Well... comparing to others, solina is the closest sound to it.

Brass is also pretty identical to Crumar Orchestrator, but it have identical filter from Crumar Performer (very weak resonance). Too bad because in orchestrator it could make such a great sweeps, but this cannot do same. But the cutoff is powerful.

Also, this string machine isn't commonly available. I don't know how many was produced, but the original retail price was $1500!!! So maybe this is indeed very rare, uncommon at least. These were made about in middle or end of 80's.

See these virtual soundsheet of Crumar Orchestrator and peformer. The sounds of Orchestrator's piano and clavesin/harpsichord and brass is identical to this TOM-1501. And the filter from Crumar performer is also identical."

The Analog Eclipse | KORG minilogue xd | Dark to Rock One-Synth-Jam

video upload by Lo-fi Pask

"Even though I’ve got dozens of unfinished projects on my trusty Teenage Engineering OP-XY (some of them almost ready) I felt the need to break the cycle. I had the sense I was starting to repeat myself. So I turned to one of my favorite analog synths, the KORG minilogue xd, looking for a patch that could spark something new. And from that came this track… though I’m still not sure what exactly it is.

As usual, the atmosphere is dark, but halfway through it unexpectedly takes on a rock-inspired twist before returning to its original mood. I even tried reworking the idea on the OP-XY to make it more polished (and complex), but in the end I decided to record it raw—exactly as it came to me.

Hope you enjoy it. I plan to explore this same process on other synths as well. Let me know in the comments if this journey through analog synth sound design intrigues you.

Gears/Sounds Used:
KORG minilogue xd
Teenage Engineering TX-6 (used for recording )
'Dystopia Extended' soundset [ • KORG MINILOGUE XD: "Dystopia Extended" sou... ] [video below]

🎧 For the full experience headphones are highly recommended.

Into darkwave, synthwave, ambient vibes, and experimental grooves? Hit subscribe for more KORK Minilogue XD sessions, live jams, and sound design experiments."

KORG MINILOGUE XD: "Dystopia Extended" soundset - NO TALKING DEMO

video upload by ADL-MusicLab

"SYNTH SQUAD PRESENTS: 'DYSTOPIA EXTENDED', A COLLECTION OF 40 HANDCRAFTED AND HYPER-DETAILED PATCHES FOR YOUR KORG MINILOGUE XD PROVIDED IN STUNNING QUALITY.

'DYSTOPIA EXTENDED' is the sequel of our 'Dystopia' sound library, originally made for the Korg Prologue.

Now we have expanded the collection of sounds and made it compatible for the Korg Minilogue XD.

These brand-new sounds bring to life the truly hybrid nature of the Korg Minilogue XD, unlocking his full potential both in the analogue and in the digital/fx sections.

An amount of 40 brand-new sounds: 12 keys, 11 polysynths, 4 synth basses, 6 pads, 3 arps, 4 leads.

These sounds are perfect for ambient, futuristic, lo-fi, synthwave, retrowave, Sci-Fi, electronica, atmospheric, dark, cyberpunk and any cinematic genres, and many other styles too.

Take advantage of the launch promotion, only €15.00 instead of €30.00, available only for a limited time.

BUY HERE: https://payhip.com/b/kJxNi

There are not any dependencies on user oscillators or effects, everything is programmed with the factory features. In this video you listen to the sounds that you will get, without any external effect or processing. The sounds are played on the keyboard and using the mod joystick, without any knob tweaking.

CLICK FOR MORE »

FABESIS ENCLAVE Profesional Edicion 2024 - Sintetizador de Nueva Generacion

video uploads by Bautista D. Perez

via this eBay listing

Based on the user manual, this appears to be a preset synth. I'm not seeing the ability to do any deep sound editing - there's no mention of filters, LFOs, or envelopes. That said, this is the first post to feature FABESIS.

Details via FABESIS:

"16-Part Multitimbral Synthesizer

🎹 MÁXIMUN EXPRESSION FOR ACOUSTIC INSTRUMENTS
24-bit Audio for Maximum Authenticity and Expression of Acoustic Instruments Designed in the United States specifically for discerning musicians. This synthesizer includes the traditional sounds used to play Corridos, Chilenas, Banda, Alterado, Tierra Caliente, Tropical Cumbia and Sonidera, Merengue, Bachata, Tango, Chanchona, Cumbia Villera, Tecnocumbia, Chicha Peruana, Cumbia Ranchera, Rock, Romantic Music, and much more!

🖥️ EASY TO NAVIGATE
The Enclave's interface is easy to navigate. Its navigation is so intuitive that, if you already have experience as a musician, you probably won’t even need to read the manual. All menus are designed to be easily understood by any user.

🎹 SEMI-WEIGHTED KEYBOARD
Professional keyboard with fast response, semi-weighted design, and blister contacts — ideal for demanding musicians. Its lightweight build and portability make it perfect for any stage.

🎛️ EASY TO USE FRONT PANEL
The front panel of the Fabesis Enclave is intuitive, clear, and entirely in Spanish. It includes essential functions such as:

Tuning – Adjust pitch with precision
Transpose – Instantly shift keys without changing your hand positions
Octave Shift – Expand your range at the touch of a button
Navegation
Operation Mode - Select the operation Mode
Sound Banks - Choose your favorite sounds
Factory Effects – Apply studio-quality effects instantly with built-in presets

Additionally, its effects section includes factory pre-programmed presets, ready to use instantly..
🔌 CONNECTIONS
On the back panel, you’ll find all the connections you need:

Audio outputs - for live performance or recording
Headphone Jack - for silent practice
Damper Pedal - for expressive sustain
MIDI Ports - for external gear and sequencing
USB Connections - for storage
Programation Port. - for software updates
📦 EXPANSIONS
For those looking to expand the capabilities of the Enclave, Fabesis offers a variety of sound libraries and expansions, including:

Grupero Wave.
Romances.
Saxophones.
Trumpets.
Trombones.
Mega Synths.
Ambient Dreams."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Album with Make Noise only - Fracture #10 Live Performance

video upload by Anton Anru

"🎆 Fractures is the result of a series of experiments with the Make Noise modular trio: 0-Coast, Strega, and 0-Ctrl. This combination of instruments is perfectly suited for generative ambient music, where hypnotic repetition merges with expression and dynamic movement.
💽 I recorded a 10-track album using only three Make Noise devices and VST effects.
All tracks were recorded live in a single take, with no additional editing. Each piece is built around a sequenced pattern and a complex patch that evolves continuously, shaped manually in real time.

The album is available on all streaming platforms.
➕ SoundCloud: / fractures
➕ Bandcamp: https://anru.bandcamp.com/album/fract...

The album explores a wide emotional range — from brighter, more uplifting moments to darker, more noise-driven textures — offering a diverse sonic journey shaped by the raw, living nature of modular synthesis.

📒 I also have patches for Make Noise and other synthesizers: https://antonanru.sellfy.store/

🎛 Lately, I’ve been more interested in working with simpler forms rather than complex arrangements in DAW. Semi-modular synths are perfect for this approach. In this case, the arrangement is the patch itself. If it’s well thought out, you can easily play a full track in a specific genre—like ambient or techno—using just that one patch."