Akai Open Up MPC OS To Vibe Plugins - ADC26

video upload by sonicstate

"We had a chat with Pete from InMusic about the MPC OS , an update that opens the platform to external plug-in development and adds a set of optional enhancement features.
Thats right folks, vibe coding is being embraced here.

The update follows recent community work around extending MPC products. External plug-in support now appears in the MPC plug-in menu, with VST2-ish formatted plug-ins installable via an SDK. The SDK can create plug-ins, generate interfaces and place them on the MPC, and the demo included an AI-generated felt-piano instrument with added effects.

Enhancements also include USB mouse support, screenshots, unlimited audio tracks, unlimited plug-in tracks and removable plug-in limits, with CPU management left to the project. Developer tools include a Linux terminal, SSH access, system logs, CPU and memory views, voice counters, render-time monitoring, audio overrun reporting and external VST management.

A remote screen feature mirrors the MPC display on a computer and includes audio and video recording. The SDK supports main MPCs, including Gen 1 and Gen 2 models, with fuller OS access planned later."

Akai’s MPC Is Officially Open // Here’s How to Make the Most of It

video upload by loopop

TIMELINE: 0:00 Intro 2:25 Overview 2:50 SDK & AI 3:10 Open MPC 3:30 Limitations 4:15 Installing plugins 5:10 Synth plugins 6:40 Effect plugins 8:35 Community plugins 9:15 Vector synth 10:15 Open source 10:40 Spotykach 11:55 Mouse & more 12:20 Screenshots & tracks 12:40 Audio settings 13:15 Remote viewer 13:55 Developer panel 14:15 Pros & cons 16:00 Jams

MPC 3.10.1 Update | Opening Up New Possibilities

video upload by Akai Professional

"MPC 3.10.1 takes standalone music production further, giving you more freedom to create, experiment, and bring your ideas to life. https://inmusic.to/4tht34ya

Discover new sounds with custom plugins built using our free official Software Development Kit (SDK). Build more ambitious projects with expanded track and plugin capabilities, streamline your workflow with mouse support, and share your creative process with remote screen and audio streaming.

We invite you to join Akai Pro's Andy Mac in this exciting new overview of MPC 3.10.1."

FL Pad: Novation - ADC26

video upload by sonicstate

"Alex from Novation showed us FL Pad at Audio Dev 26, a 64-pad hardware controller for FL Studio. The controller uses a familiar Launchpad-style layout, but the focus here is direct integration with FL Studio, where dedicated hardware control is relatively limited.

The pad grid includes a sequencer view with four tracks visible at once. In the demo, kicks, snares and hi-hats are entered directly from the controller, with additional channel-rack navigation available from the hardware. A 16-step loop can be cloned to the next 16 steps, creating a 32-step pattern for adding variation. The sequencer also scales further, with support for expanded track/step access as needed.

Step editing is available by holding a step to enter graph edit mode. Parameters include velocity, panning, repeats and ratchets. The controller operates as a plug-and-play FL Studio device, and the unit is available now. More Info: https://novationmusic.com"

ADC26: Open University - Additive Synthesis Supercomputer

video upload by sonicstate

"We spoke to Alan at Audio Dev 26 about an Additive Synthesis Supercomputer, a research project focused on high-partial-count synthesis and a more practical way to describe complex evolving sounds.

The project is at an early stage and now produces musical material rather than only test tones. It is not a real-time synth. Instead, it uses a distributed systems approach, where many computers can share the calculations needed for additive synthesis. Current simulations already handle a few thousand partials on a basic laptop.

The system uses the Hertz L language to define sounds. Code changes can be reflected on the next loop, depending on complexity. Rendering can also start from an arbitrary point in the audio, rather than requiring a full piece to render from the beginning.

Features include polyphonic operation, partial-by-partial morphing between harmonic, noisy and percussive material, and spatial placement for individual partials. Playback is effectively sample playback, while the rendering stage handles the main computation. CPU cores, GPUs, Apple silicon, x64 systems and local compute clusters are all relevant to the project's direction.

More Info: https://musiclab.stem.open.ac.uk/"

Morphor Echon 6 BBD Poly Synth - SonicLAB

video upload by sonicstate

"Note: We have created a set of sampled in Decent Sampler for this - available on our / sonicstate and to 16-bit YouTube Members

@morphor.radical.acoustics‬ Morphor Echon 6 is a six-voice desktop analogue polyphonic, multitimbral BBD synthesizer. Each voice combines a basic analogue exciter with a tunable BBD resonator, giving Karplus-Strong-style pitched delay behaviour that follows incoming MIDI notes. It really got our interest at Superbooth this year, where it won best in show for its unusual synthesis method and sounds.

In this Sonic LAB, we spend time with its oscillator shapes, noise source, onset delay, resonator feedback and filtering. The instrument has six voice outputs, stereo outs, headphones, external input, MIDI in/out/thru, USB and power. There is no onboard display, though an editor exists for patch naming and sharing.

Modulation centres on an envelope, four LFOs, random generation, mod wheel, velocity, aftertouch and key follow. Lit buttons show modulatable destinations, and routings can be muted or cleared. Voice groups allow splits such as six monos, two groups of three or layered unison patches, with separate outputs available.

In practice, the Echon 6 sounds highly dynamic and can become level-heavy quickly.
We use external Ventris reverb at points, as there are no onboard effects.
Street price is around £1,979."

Stylophone On-The-Fly Performance Sequencer OUT NOW!

video upload by Stylophone

Check with dealers on the right for pricing and availability.

"Introducing the Stylophone OTF — On The Fly, a hands-on sequencing instrument designed for shaping melodies and developing performances in real time.

Part of the Stylophone Pro Range and Music Lab series, OTF brings a direct, physical approach to sequencing. Its screen-free interface keeps controls accessible while the sequence is running, allowing you to adjust pitch, rhythm, playback direction and groove as part of the performance.

Create 16-, 32- or 64-step sequences, switch between patterns and access 24 sequence memories as you develop your ideas. Add rests, ties, glides, ratchets and controlled randomness to introduce variation, or transpose a sequence and adjust its feel without interrupting playback. The emphasis is on hearing how each change affects the music and responding as you play.

With Eurorack CV/Gate, MIDI and Sync connectivity, OTF is designed to integrate with modular, desktop and hybrid setups, bringing hands-on melodic sequencing to your existing instruments.

Watch the demonstration to hear OTF in action and see how a sequence can evolve through live control."

STYLOPHONE ON-THE-FLY - Performance Sequencer

video upload by sonicstate

Stylophone On The Fly First Jam

video upload by Stazma and Stylophone

"Built To Be Played, Not Just Programmed

The Stylophone On-The-Fly is a hands-on performance sequencer designed to turn pattern programming into a real-time performance. It puts every control at your finger tips, letting you instantly shape and transform sequences with variations in rhythm, pitch, and playing style – all without stopping the music or diving into menus.

Built for live performance, experimentation, and studio sequencing, the On-The-Fly lets you explore new ideas, capture them as you play with 24 loop recording memories, and keep your music evolving without breaking the flow. Full Eurorack CV, Gate, Sync, and MIDI connectivity makes it easy to integrate with modular, MIDI, and hybrid setups – link and sync multiple units into a multi-sequencer system."

PERFORMANCE AT YOUR FINGERTIPS.

16, 32, OR 64-STEP SEQUENCES WITH 8 LIVE-SWITCHABLE PATTERN CHAINS.

24 SEQUENCE MEMORIES WITH PER-STEP PITCH AND DUTY CYCLE.

SWITCHABLE SEQUENCE DIRECTIONS, FORWARD, REVERSE, BOUNCE.

ON-THE-FLY SWITCHING.

MUSICAL SCALE & TRANSPOSE CONTROL.

6 CREATIVE STEP EFFECTS.

MANUAL PERFORMANCE BUTTON.

MULTIPLE GROOVE CONTROLS.

LOOP RECORD UP TO 128 STEPS.

PER-STEP 8 SEPARATE GATE OUTPUTS PLUS THE SUMMED GATE OUT.

EURORACK-READY CV & GATE, PLUS MIDI & SYNC.

LINK AND SYNC MULTIPLE UNITS.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Euclidean Rhythm Sequencer: Student Project - Music China 2026

video upload by sonicstate

"We spoke to Lorrain from the Shanghai Conservatory of Music at M-China26 about two projects developed for her undergraduate coursework. Euclidean rhythm sequencer is a browser-based piece that lets you tap to change the sequence and record your own sound. It uses web technologies, including WebAudio and WebMidi, and was running on a local network rather than as a public web service.

The second project is a visual and sound piece based around a pet cat. It uses wave terrain synthesis, with the cat chasing a light across changing terrain. The terrain height defines the waveform, and the cat's movement changes the resulting sound.

This is coursework rather than a commercial product, we wish Lorrain well in her chosen career once she graduates.

More Info:
https://en.shcmusic.edu.cn/"

DIY Eurorack Modules: Tin Man Synths - Music China 2026

video upload by sonicstate

"We spoke to Andrew from Tin Man Synths about his range of DIY Eurorack Modules, a set of simple through-hole designs built around accessible analogue and digital circuits.

The context was China's DIY synth scene, where importing synth brands and beginner kits can be difficult or expensive. Tin Man Synths focuses partly on making local DIY resources more available, alongside carrying other brands.

The range includes a transposing sequencer, which allows one sequence to transpose another, and clocking the two parts out of sync creates a longer rolling pattern of 32 to 64 steps. Other modules include dual attack-release envelopes, a side-chain VCA, matrix mixer, output stages, a semitone voltage-offset processor, the Radius 2164-based filter, voltage-controlled slew, a 40106 VCO, a voltage-controlled LFO, and Daisy Seed-based delay and granular effects.

The modules use through-hole construction, with bare PCBs around $10 and full kits around 400–500 RMB, or roughly $50–60.

Availability is currently mainly China and Southeast Asia."

Some Cool Patching Ideas for SOMA Pulsar 23 - Music China 2026

video upload by sonicstate

"Tim Kroker - drummer from Front 242 made us a patch to demonstrate some ideas to try on the Pulsar-23 the unique drum machine from Soma. Its been around for some time but the semi modular nature of its architecture means the possibilities are pretty endless.

Pulsar-23 includes four main instruments: bass drum, bass, snare and hi-hat, but its routing and utilities allow those sources to move way beyond standard drum roles.

For instance, Tim routed the bass drum into a short, Karplus style delay, then delay-time modulation creates pitched bass movement.

Well worth a watch."

DOREMiDi Has MIDI Covered - Music China 2026

video upload by sonicstate

DOREMiDi on Amazon

"Eric from DOREMiDi gave us a look at MIDI Interfaces and utility boxes at M-China26, covering a wide range of compact devices for routing, converting and syncing MIDI signals.

The range includes the Merge 5, which merges up to five MIDI inputs and provides MIDI output and thru connections. A USB MIDI host handles communication between USB MIDI devices and traditional 5-pin DIN MIDI gear, while a Bluetooth MIDI unit connects DIN MIDI equipment to wireless MIDI systems.

Other devices in the range focus on routing and conversion. The MIDI stream controller allows MIDI connections to be customised, with filtering and routing functions. A MIDI timecode box handles sync between MIDI devices, music and video, including audio timecode sync. There is also a MIDI-to-DMX unit, which receives MIDI signals and converts them to DMX for lighting control.

The products are available through DOREMiDi's online store and Amazon."

70 Years Of FATAR Keybeds - Music China 2026

video upload by sonicstate

"A pleasure to talk to Marco Ragni - CEO of Fatar - his grandfather founded the company in 1956 - He took us through the various Fatar keyboard actions. This year, the company marks its 70th anniversary and traced its roots back to electronic keyboard mechanisms developed in Italy's 'music valley'.

The range covers digital piano, synth, organ and church organ actions. The TP-19 is a synthesizer action with polyphonic aftertouch, while the TP-400 digital piano action uses a sandwich key construction with plastic, a weighted inner material, side veneer and an ivory-textured top surface. Other models include the TP-40 and TP-110 piano actions, plus TP-8 and TP-9 semi-weighted actions with no hammer mechanism.

The synth range includes the compact TP-7 and TP-8 variants used in instruments such as the Waldorf Quantum, alongside organ actions found in products including Nord Electro models. Church organ actions include a "snap" feel that reproduces the force and drop of an acoustic valve mechanism.

Great to chat to Marco about the challenges and technology behind most of the synth keyboards we play.

More Info: https://fatar.com"

Clarii Pro: Robkoo - Music China 2026

video upload by sonicstate

"Oscar from Robkoo showed us Clarii Pro C20, the company's pro wind controller at the large Robkoo booth - electronic wind instruments are very popular here in China. The current range includes the Clarii Mini and Clarii Pro C20, with the Pro model having a larger selection of controls and features.

A recent addition is the 3D glider function. When a key is touched from the edge towards the centre, the instrument generates a slight glide, giving bend-style control for sounds such as whistle or recorder.

Clarii Pro includes a sampler, an analog synth models, around 100 internal sounds, and 100 user sets for stored patches. It uses sax-style fingering, with extra keys for articulations, set switching, octave control, glide, pitch bend up and down, plus an internal gyro sensor. The mouthpiece supports bite control and breath pressure for volume. A dual-driver speaker is built in.

Connectivity includes USB MIDI and wireless MIDI over Bluetooth, with support for DAWs and software instruments. Wireless audio is not included because of latency. More sounds can be installed via the app. Pricing is around US$700, depending on region, with dealers in the US, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam and other countries.

More Info: https://www.robkoo.com/"

See the Robkoo label below for additional posts.

New Controllers And Interfaces: Synido, MIDIPLUS, Topping - Music China 2026

video upload by sonicstate

Synido on Amazon

"Millie from Synido showed us their products - W25 Play, TempoKey K32 Play, Scale Pocket, Gaming A7 and LiveDock A20 Pro. Synido is a Shenzhen-based company with a focus on compact music tools, MIDI controllers and small audio interfaces.

W25 Play works without a computer for setup. It includes scale mode, chord mode, an arpeggiator, MIDI, and MIDI In, Out and Thru. It costs $169.

TempoKey K32 Play includes 128 sounds, 10 drum keys, a speaker, battery, 32 MIDI keys, eight knobs, eight pads, Bluetooth MIDI and USB-C. It costs $149 and is released in mainland China, with overseas release planned through the website and Amazon.

Scale Pocket includes 132 scales, 12 sounds, a speaker, headphone jack, USB-C MIDI and 24 velocity-sensitive keys. Gaming A7 is a low-latency gaming audio interface due in December at $53. LiveDock A20 Pro includes instrument input, mic, output and Type-C, and costs $60."

X-Max And Many New Products: MIDIPLUS - Music China 2026

video upload by sonicstate

MIDIPLUS on Amazon

"YK from MIDI Plus gave us a tour of the massive booth they had in hall N1 covering products across many areas. YK showed us the flagship X-Max keyboard, and several new products in the company's range. We heard about the brand's history, including early Chinese digital keyboard development, portable MIDI keyboards for personal computers, and MIDI-to-USB work with MIDI Man. They collaborate with many brands to bring products to us.

*X-Max *is the flagship keyboard. It comes in an 88-key Fatar-touch version, with three semi-weighted versions also available. It includes hundreds of sounds, supports split mode, and offers DAW control for Logic, Cubase, Nuendo, Pro Tools, Live and others. Features include Chinese instruments, velocity-switched sample layers, expression control, smart scales, a learning mode, arpeggiator mutation and chord pads. Pricing is over RMB 6,000.

The Titan Q4F audio interface is a new 8-in/8-out model with a self-developed FPGA platform, screen metering, Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX HD and LDAC, plus Dante, ADAT, S/PDIF and OTG support.

Portal is a broadcast-focused interface with EQ, effects, pads, sampling, presets, mix-minus and loopback. We also saw a *folding AI smart guitar*, a Bluetooth MIDI wind instrument, and an expandable DAW controller with up to 32 channels.
More Info: https://www.midiplus.com.tw/"

KB22 and M62: Topping - Music China 2026

video upload by sonicstate

Topping is primarily known for their DACs.

"Marie from Topping Pro gave us a look at KB22, a mechanical keyboard with a built-in 2-in/2-out audio interface, alongside the portable M62 interface. The KB22 is a recent release from the Guangzhou company, which has its roots in hi-fi products and is now moving further into pro audio. This while at first glance might seem like a gimmick, actually makes a lot of sense.

The KB22 includes mic and high-impedance instrument inputs, line output, USB hub, OTG for phone connection, and 6.35mm headphone output with monitor volume control. The keyboard comes in two switch-feel options, and a small screen shows basic data.

Its control panel offers three modes: pro audio, gaming and hi-fi. Pro audio mode includes 80 dB gain, six loopback channels, DSP effects, noise reduction, reverb and ducking. Gaming mode includes voice boost and monitoring tools, while hi-fi mode includes EQ adjustment for playback tuning.

The M62 offers similar functions in a portable format, with a built-in battery rated at about 6.5 hours, dual mic inputs, aux input, headphone output, charge, OTG and USB-C ports. It supports phone and computer connection, including two-phone live streaming, and comes in seven colours. KB22 is priced at $269, while M62 is $249, with availability via Topping's global store, distributors and Amazon.

More Info: https://www.toppingaudio.com/"

Add MPE-like Actions by Twiddle AI PEEK - Music China 2026

video upload by sonicstate

"We had a chat with Huang from Twiddle AI who showed us Twiddle PEEK a camera-based MIDI controller add-on that converts a conventional MIDI keyboard into an MPE-like controller.

Processing happens inside the unit, so it does not need a connected computer. It works standalone with a MIDI keyboard, controller, or synthesizer. Connectivity includes USB-A input, MIDI in, and MIDI out, with both MPE and standard MIDI modes available.

Twiddle PEEK adds two extra gesture dimensions beyond note on/off and velocity. Its computer-vision expression engine tracks hand position and supports up to ten fingers. Gestures can be assigned to different MIDI functions. A long press on the front button re-learns the keyboard view, while a short press activates bypass.

The camera field of view supports around 25 to 50 or 60 keys, depending on module height. Infrared lighting and camera exposure/gain adjustment allow operation in dark or bright conditions. A Kickstarter launch is planned in about a month, with pricing expected below $200.

More Info: https://twiddle-ai.com"

Behringer Polyeight: Nick gets Hands-On - Music China 2026

video upload by sonicstate

"Behringer delivered a lot of new models to their stand, but when we dropped by early in the show there weren't many details available - so Nick went again and had a quick look at the Polyeight by himself.

The original reference point is a six-voice, single-oscillator polysynth, while this version increases the voice count and keeps the layout fairly direct.

The instrument features a single oscillator with triangle and pulse waveforms, manual pulse width and pulse-width modulation, plus a sub oscillator. The filter has the expected low-end drop when the cutoff is pushed, and modulation comes from an LFO and a single envelope generator. The panel also includes VCF, VCA attenuator, arpeggiator, key assign modes and a control section.

Built-in effects include chorus and phaser, although the output is mono, so the chorus does not appear as a stereo effect in this setup. The unit also includes unison, split mode, chord memory and mono aftertouch. No pricing or availability information is available yet."

EP35 Amp: Teenage Engineering - Music China 2026

video upload by sonicstate

"Well this is a first... Teenage Engineering in the Guitar Hall! With a Guitar Amp! That holds a beer! ;-] Nick chatted to Yukes from Teenage Engineering about the *EP35*, a new 35-watt practice amplifier that fits in the company’s more 'affordable' EP/KO range.

There's a 6.35mm instrument input, a 48V XLR input, an auxiliary input, Bluetooth audio, USB-C and line output. It also works as a multi-channel audio interface, with instrument, mic, aux and master signals available across eight channels. The line output doesn't mute the speaker, so it can feed recording or monitoring at the same time.

Accessories include a two-sided USB flash drive for backing tracks and drum loops, an "Amptenna" radio antenna, EP-compatible side mounting and a rear compartment that can hold a drink or a power bank. The KO pedal connects over Bluetooth for playback control, effects, and looping, and also works standalone as a USB MIDI sustain or expression controller.

The amp is expected to retail around $399 overseas. It is available in some areas already, while China has the amp first, with pedal and accessories still to follow there."

M-VAVE - FM-1 and More - Music China 2026

video upload by sonicstate

M-VAVE on Amazon

"We spoke to Austin from M-VAVE at M-China26 about the FM-1 and the company's wider range of compact controllers and instruments. FM-1 has proved to be a massive hit, with many firmware modifications, Baud Girl being just one - they liked it so much they have made a custom skin for her.

The FM-1 centres on open firmware. Official firmware is free to download, and third-party firmware can be loaded via the bootloader. Community development includes alternate firmware adding virtual analogue functions, and M-VAVE is also working with Bug Girl on an exclusive night-purple version.

The FM-1 is an FM synthesizer with a basic official firmware, and it loads original four-operator FM patches. Other M-VAVE controllers, including the keyboard and pad units, also use classic Yamaha DX7-style sounds and include functions such as FX, amplifier controls and arpeggios.

The new MIDI keyboard features improved key response, faster DAW mapping, USB-C connection to a computer, and 3.5mm MIDI input and output. Smaller keyboard versions and a four-fader mixer-style controller are also available. And did we say, they also have open source firmware, so you can fill your boots....

Products are available through Amazon and retail partners.

More Info: M-vave.com"

Synthesizer V, Instrument X & VocalFlex: Dreamtonics - Music China 2026

video upload by sonicstate

"Kanru from Dreamtonics gave us a look at Synthesizer V, Instrument X and VocalFlex at Music China 2026. Synthesizer V is a vocal synthesis system rather than a prompt-based generator. It runs completely offline and converts MIDI notes with typed lyrics into audio.

Since our previous coverage at ADC in Brisatol, the Synthesizer V 2.3.0 beta adds Portuguese, French, German and Italian support. It also includes detailed phoneme editing, so vowel and pronunciation choices can be adjusted per note. Language selection is handled from a dropdown, but the software does not translate lyrics.

Instrument X is the instrumental counterpart, with a launch collection of 15 orchestral and jazz instruments. It uses neural network synthesis combined with physics modelling, runs offline on CPU, and supports Mac and Windows. Articulations replace lyrics in the editor, with staccato, slurs, accents, portamento and pitch curves available. It works as an instrument plug-in and via ARA.

VocalFlex is a real-time voice transformation plug-in with morphing between reference timbres. All three products are one-time purchases, with the Trilogy bundle priced at around $299.

More Info: https://dreamtonics.com/"

Sneak Peak From the Halls - Music China 2026

video upload by sonicstate

You might remember Behringer's Polyeight teased back in April of 2021.

"Nick and TamiX took a pre-show walk around the Behringer booth at M-China26, with a quick look at a few products before the show floor opened properly.

The preview included the BCR32, Minipop 7, Poly 8, Pro 16 and JN80. The Poly 8 appears to be an 8 voice Poly 6, while the RD-765 unit has styling in the area of classic 909 and 707 drum machines - maybe?
There are also compact controllers with familiar layouts."

Beijing Modular 10/26/26 Videos

video uploads by sonicstate

Latest videos for the day. See the Modular Commune label for more.

Playlist:

1. Heisenberg Zynthian Workstation- Beijing Modular 26

Jarrod from Heisenberg told us about the OFAI Music Workstation and a handmade wooden MIDI controller.

The workstation is a custom small Linux-based unit with audio outputs and MIDI. It runs open-source software from the Zynthian platform, with additional presets made by Jarrod. The hardware is a a custom development by the team, and it supports MIDI synths, plug-ins and multi-timbral sequencing.

The wooden controller works as a generic control surface and is not for sale, more just as a DIY project by Jarrod. Parameters are assigned with MIDI Learn, so knobs and buttons can control selected synth or effect parameters. In the demo, a USB MIDI cable connects the controller to the workstation. The system can run drums, hi-hats and riffs on separate tracks, and selecting a track gives access to further parameters. A MIDI latch function holds notes while parameters are adjusted.

The OFAI Workstation is sold in China for 3,700 RMB. The wooden controller is handmade and is not for sale. More Info: https://zynthian.org

2. 30k - Nyoka - Magnetic Field Noise Generator - Beijing Modular 26

Yang from 30K told us about their NYOKA Magnetic Field Noise Generator, a small experimental sound device that turns electromagnetic interference into audio control signals.

The unit senses magnetic field signals and uses them to modulate an internal oscillator. It can also be played by touch, with fingers routing signals to different points in the circuit. The device includes multiple switches for changing operating modes, selecting oscillator or inductor output, choosing where the magnetic field signal routes, and altering routing inside the oscillator.

The unit runs from USB-C power and outputs audio via a 3.5mm TRS jack. It responds strongly to nearby power sources, with different electrical equipment producing different responses. Yang also mentioned that it works well with external reverb and delay.

The device is available for 229 RMB.
He also showed a magnetic field amplifier with 1000x gain and a small Meow Box synthesizer that produces cat sounds - I mean, why not?

3. 203 Systems - Mystrix 2 MPE Grid, Cardenza - tiny hackable music computer- Beijing Modular 26

Nengzhuo Cai from 203 Systems had some pretty cool units to show, first up is about Mystrix 2, a wireless MPE grid controller, and two compact music devices. Mystrix 2 is the latest generation and runs its own OS, so applications can be installed directly on the hardware without a computer.

Mystrix 2 acts as a MIDI and control-data source. It includes MPE keyboard apps, chord, arpeggiator, scale and custom scale tools, split-screen operation, an eight-track sequencer, clip mode and a mixer. The sequencer supports 16 patterns with 16 steps. It has three full-feature USB-C ports for charging, computer connection or accessory boxes, plus CV and MIDI adapters. A hidden side touch slider supports functions such as strumming.

Next up is *Cardenza, *a $20 open-source ESP32 S3 music computer with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5, microphone, SD card, app installation and web coding support. You can run your own programs on it, and even browse the web (assuming you can code your own browser!)

Then the NULLperator is a tiny eight-track tracker with audio I/O, TRS MIDI I/O, microphone, speaker and battery. Mystrix 2 is expected for Kickstarter at around $500, while NULLperator is expected around $300, with free iOS and Android apps available.

More Info: https://203.io/ |--------|

4. SPI1: Mini Multi-function Game-style Modules - Beijing Modular 26

We spoke to Lei and the team behind *SPI1*, a compact modular music workstation built around a “micro universe” concept. They explained that the project uses a game-like interface for creating music, with visual design, touch controls and interchangeable hardware modules forming part of the workflow. SPI1 features a square-format touch bar with 12 control keys. Projects can start from blank templates or preset styles, and the system supports user-made templates. The team plans to release an SDK for third-party development, covering modules and internal software. The instrument includes a DSP synth system where timbres are organised as “plants”, with scale selection, generative music modes and four-channel pattern recording. A map-style interface contains sound machines, including chord and wave-based devices. External interaction comes through probes for wind, magnetic signals, audio signals and other inputs. The modular hardware includes interfaces such as joystick, DJ turntable, drum pad, fader and marble-based controllers. An audio sequencer module can trigger external devices and lights. SPI1 is currently a prototype, with a Kickstarter planned for spring next year. Pricing has not yet been confirmed.

5. Erica Synths: Graphic Sequencer - Beijing Modular 26

Ģirts from Erica Synths gave us a look at the Graphic Sequencer a new Eurorack module currently in production.

The Graphic Sequencer is a compact hub for sequencing and modulation. It has 10 steps (with a planned 16-step expander) plus CV and gate outputs and three modulation outputs. Those outputs support envelopes, delay-based envelope types, user-drawn multistage envelopes, LFOs, random walk, Euclidean sequencing and chord CV duties across multiple oscillators.

Magic mode changes an existing sequence in real time, with controls for note variation, octaves, density, gates and slides. Returning from that mode clears the edit buffer. The Euclidean section works with an 8-channel expander, and hits can be added manually with the encoder.

The module is expected in about a month, priced around €300.

6. Theresyn - Beijing Modular 26

We spoke to Nori about Theresyn, a handmade fully analogue theremin synthesizer. He explained that it uses the familiar theremin approach, with the left hand controlling amplitude and the right hand controlling pitch, but adds extra control and acoustic elements.

Xin then demo'd the pressure-sensitive touch pad, which controls oscillator amplitude and can also trigger an ADSR envelope. Theresyn has two oscillators, with mixing between the theremin voice and an internal oscillator. Antenna tracking can be set to none, partial or full, allowing one oscillator to act as a drone or follow the pitch hand.

The synth also includes selectable waveforms, filter modes including low-pass, resonance, pitch-to-filter tracking and amplitude modulation of the cutoff. Its speaker system includes a front loudspeaker and rear resonating strings, with a pickup for the string output. There is no pitch quantizer, and pitch remains continuous. The pitch range can be tuned to the player's body capacitance.

Theresyn is handmade, available to order from the website, and the full version with bag costs €3,000.

More Info: https://theresyn.com/

7. PUFF Eurorack Breath Controller - Beijing Modular 26

We spoke to the team behind Puff V3 about the Puff breath controller project, which began in 2024. They explained that the current wired V2 has the same core functions as the planned V3, while the V3 moves to wireless operation.

Puff converts breath into control voltage for modular systems and synthesizers. It can control pitch, cutoff, resonance and other modulation destinations, depending on the patch. The system supports up to four CV outputs and one MIDI output. USB-C connects to a computer or laptop for MIDI, so it can control software and hardware at the same time.

The controller is held in the mouth, leaving both hands free for instruments such as guitar or piano. The team also discussed a future mouth ring or bite control for sustain-style input. The prototype is built, with release planned for June next year, and the project launches on Kickstarter.

SmartLab: Error Instruments - Beijing Modular 26

video upload by sonicstate

"Nick caught up with Paul Tas from Error Instruments about SmartLab, a standalone desktop instrument developed with Stijn Cuypers from *This Is Not Rocket Science*.

SmartLab mixes physical modelling, granular processing and a large effects processor, with nearly 40 sounds per engine and the ability to run two sounds at once. It includes a built-in microphone, stereo outputs, two inputs at Eurorack level, headphone output, CV outputs and MIDI support.

The interface centres on motion control. Each fader acts as a function generator, and movements can be recorded and repeated. Short gestures stay active, while longer ones fade away. The coloured LED ring interface gives visual feedback for recording and playback, and the same motion data can drive internal sound engines or external CV, acting like a repeating LFO.

Sample storage includes ten slots, with up to five seconds per sample at 32kHz. The Grenoble ring can store five new sounds, although that part of the software is not finished yet.
The target price is €600–€700, with shipping expected before Christmas or early in the new year."