Vintage 1972 MOOG Sonic Six Brochure

via this auction

"This is a great brochure for the beautiful and cool SONIC SIX synthesizer by Moog. This synth had a great look and cool modulation options. Brochure is a foldout with 4 pages total."

1984 MFB System 2000 German Ad

via synthmuseum.de

New Fyrd Instruments SEQ X4 WALKTHROUGH

Published on Mar 7, 2014

"SEQ X4 is the new interface for the MTRX MIDI controller. It comes as a free alternative interface to the Jam Machine (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pWsMaC...). [posted here] It features 4 completely independent 32-step sequencers with:
- pitch, velocity, octave, duration
- shift (small delay of each step)
- bend (pitch wheel sequencing - Slide/Glide effect)
- active step selection, loop length
- speed (1/32th, 1/16th, 1/8th, 1/4th)
- warp (forward/backward/ping-pong/random)

The SEQ X4 interface can be sync'ed via MIDI clock message as a Master or a Slave and use the Fyrd Instruments Lock System (FILS). The sync can comes from a computer or MIDI device (SLAVE/FILS) or from the MTRX itself. It outputs MIDI messages (notes, pitch bend) both on USB and MIDI ports simultaneously (thus can act as a MIDI/USB interface with sync ability).

The SEQ X4 firmware is compatible with both MTRX-8 and the new MTRX-S (the first prototype is used in the video).

The MTRX-S can be pre-ordered now on www.fyrd-instruments.com.
249€ with FREE SHIPPING worldwide (limited time offer till the end of the MTRX-S pre-order)."

Rob Papen brings blue sky thinking to virtual instruments with BLUE-II

"ECHT, THE NETHERLANDS: virtual instrument and plug-in developer Rob Papen Soundware is proud to announce availability of BLUE-II — an all-new reworking of its breakthrough BLUE soft synth for Mac (OS X 10.6 or higher) and PC (Windows Vista, 7, and 8) — as of March 10...

First released in 2005 after namesake company founder and sought-after sound designer Rob Papen formed the RPCX (Rob Papen ConcreteFX) partnership with music software developer Jon Ayers to create a powerful dream synth, the original version of BLUE has truly stood the test of time to remain a bona fide software synthesizer classic, much loved by synth players and producers worldwide to this day. But back in 2005 it already reflected Rob Papen’s cutting-edge, creative, and — most importantly — musical approach towards developing virtual instruments that truly stand out from the soft synth crowd. By first delivering FM and subtractive synthesis — subsequently adding Phase Distortion and waveshaping synthesis — into the creatively combustible musical mix, BLUE blew the competition away, as reflected in its runaway sales success. Rob Papen himself cleverly called it ‘Crossfusion synthesis’ since it covered so much musical ground so effectively. New dreams for old are an inevitable result of time and technology waiting for no one, however, so the time has come for Rob Papen to move onwards and upwards.

Today, therefore, marks the turning point in a long and winding developmental roadmap that has led to Rob Papen’s eagerly- awaited BLUE-II — bigger and better than it ever was! But BLUE-II remains true to the dreamlike ethos of its predecessor, with even more sound dimensions and features to its extended name, starting with six oscillators beating powerfully at its musical heart. These can be connected in various ways, together with two analogue-style modelled stereo filters with no fewer than 27 different filter types, an astounding range of processing and modulation options, serious sequencer, and an amazing arpeggiator. A new range of specially selected waveforms based on samples have been meticulously fashioned for creating new-fashioned and killer-sounding synth sounds to die for!

But BLUE-II is also easy to use, thanks to its user-friendly user interface with an innovative Easy Edit page for speedy sound changes, while the Bank Manager allows whistle-stop navigation through thousands of inspirational Rob Papen presets and artist sound banks covering a wide range of musical styles to suit all eager ears.

All told, then, BLUE-II represents an amazing journey into the dreamlike musical world of ‘Crossfusion synthesis’. By bringing blue sky thinking to virtual instruments, Rob Papen has succeeded in creating an outrageously original and immensely inspirational soft synth fit to follow in its predecessor’s fanciful footsteps — one that, quite simply, sounds stunning! So prepare to be blown away... again!

BLUE-II can be purchased as a boxed version from authorised Rob Papen dealers worldwide for €149.00 EUR (including VAT/tax)/$179.00 USD or downloaded directly from Rob Papen here: http://www.robpapen.com/buy-blue-2.html

Upgrades are also available as follows: BLUE owners can upgrade to BLUE-II for €44.00 EUR/$49.00 USD, while eXplorer II bundle owners can upgrade to the still-to-be-released eXplorer III — which will include BLUE-II and also the upcoming Punch-BD virtual instrument — for €44.00 EUR/$49.00 USD. (eXplorer II owners can also request a ‘temporary’ BLUE-II serial number if planning to upgrade to eXplorer III when released, while anyone who purchased eXplorer II in 2014 will qualify for a free Explorer III upgrade and can also request a ‘temporary’ BLUE-II serial number.)"

Introducing the Nord Lead A1R Rack

Published on Mar 10, 2014 NordKeyboards·33 videos

"Introducing the Nord Lead A1R rack mountable tabletop version of the Nord Lead A1 analog modeling synthesizer!

Be the first to check it out at Booth B90, Hall 5.1 at the Frankfurt Musikmesse March 12-15th 2014!

nordkeyboards.com/a1"

And the press release:

"Clavia DMI AB expands Lead A1 family with Nord Lead A1R desktop/rack-mountable synthesizer.

Clavia DMI AB are proud to announce the Lead A1R, a desktop/rack-mountable version of the new Lead A1 analog modeling synthesizer. Identical in feature set, the Lead A1 and A1R combine our next-generation analog modeling engine, with an innovative streamlined interface for fast-track programming.

ADDED FEATURES SINCE NAMM JANUARY 2014:
LIKE BUTTON
The new ‘Like’ function is a unique feature that is invaluable during the patch creation process. ‘Like’ up to 50 versions of a patch as you design it, scroll between them to choose your favorite to save to actual memory, or go back to an earlier version to edit in a different way.
MUTATOR
The Lead A1 and A1R also include the Mutator function introduced in the Lead 4, which creates a variation of an existing patch by adjusting certain parameters by set rules, and a full Randomize function to create an entirely new patch with all parameters randomized.
UNISON
A newly designed ”Fat-as-Fat-can-be” Unison Mode lets the Lead A1 challenge any vintage analog instrument.

ANALOG MODELING
The Lead A1 and A1r are equipped with an all new analog modeling sound engine. As the original inventors of virtual analog, this is our next-generation analog modeling, capable of reproducing the character and nuances of the vintage synths of your dreams with breathtaking accuracy. 24-voice polyphonic and four part multi-timbral, the Lead A1 and Lead A1r are flexible choices for either stage or studio, delivering a stunningly rich and versatile palette of sounds.
THE NEED FOR SPEED
The Lead A1 and A1R also introduce an innovative new front-panel user interface designed by Clavia to make programming quick and easy, while retaining hands on flexibility.
“We’ve been thinking about and honing this interface for a number of years in response to what we hear from many professional players regarding the ever-increasing time pressures in creating sounds for stage or studio. ” says Hans Nordelius, CEO and head designer at Clavia.
One of the main features of the new interface is the Oscillator section, where Oscillator configuration shortcuts allow patches to be created and edited far quicker than is usually possible for synthesis of this complexity. The new waveform engine generates 47 different waveforms from classic analog to digital harmonic and inharmonic waves.
Using a single LFO and simplified Modulation Envelope with intuitive controls on the front panel, it is also very quick to experiment with modulations, always with a clear overview of the structure of the patch.
FILTERS
The on-board filters include Low Pass, High Pass and Band Pass, along with new stunningly accurate modeled Ladder M and Ladder TB filters introduced in the Lead 4.
EFFECTS
The A1's effects section introduces two new impressive vintage Chorus and Ensemble models. Delay, Reverb, Drive, Phaser and Flanger complete the effects line-up, all with independent settings for each of the four slots.
Nord's acclaimed Morph function via Velocity or the Mod Wheel (Mod Wheel Morph via MIDI cc on A1R) is also included, allowing multiple parameters to be morphed in real time and with exceptionally easy control.
Additional functions include an independent arpeggiator for each of the four slots, Master Clock sync of the LFO, delay and Arpeggiator, MIDI over USB, and four independent outputs. The Lead A1 and A1R are compatible with the Nord Sound Manager software patch librarian.
Like all Nord products, the Lead A1 and A1R are handmade in Sweden with meticulous attention to detail and quality control.
AVAILABILITY
Nord Lead A1: April 2014 priced at 1459€
Nord Lead A1R: June 2014 priced at 1259€
For more information please visit www.nordkeyboards.com/a1.
Visitors to the MusikMesse Frankfurt can see and hear the Lead A1 and A1R at Hall 5.1, Booth B90"

New Akai Rhythm Wolf - Analog Drum Machine and Bass Synth?

Real or not? You be the judge. I'm not seeing anything on the Akai site yet. This one is in via Soviet Space Child.  Synthtopia is reporting on it and the following is via Gearslutz.  $199 price point.

Update: some discussion on The MATRIXSYNTH Lounge

Update2: looks like the Akai site is down. Updates coming or too much traffic?

Update3: The site is back and the info is up here.  Supersize image and press release captured further below.

"Musikmesse 2014: Following in the wake of the Korg Volcas and Roland's Aira range, Akai is the latest brand to get in on the vintage-inspired groovebox action with the announcement of the Rhythm Wolf – an analogue unit combining a five-voice drum machine and single-ocsillator bass synth.

The drum machine section of the Rhythm Wolf comprises kick, snare, metallic percussion, and open and closed hi-hat sounds, all of which are tuneable. The bass synth, meanwhile, can be switched between saw and square waveshapes, and features a filter with resonance control and a basic envelope shaper. Akai describes Rhythm Wolf as having an "authentic analog design that references classic rhythm machines and synthesizers" - no prizes for guessing which instruments the company is alluding to.

The whole unit is built around a 32-step sequencer, and also features six MPC pads for live performance. There's also a 'Howl' distortion circuit for adding a bit of dirt to the sounds. Additionally, the Rhythm Wolf features a USB MIDI connection and has both MIDI and gate in and out ports, so can be triggered via a DAW or external hardware. It packs a swing control on its front panel, and the unit also appears to have a built-in preset bank.

Arguably the most interesting aspect of the Rhythm Wolf, however, is its price. At an estimated street price of $199, the unit comes in at slightly cheaper than the combined price of the Volca Beats and Bass, and cheaper than either the Roland TR-8 or TB-3.

The Rhythm Wolf is due to arrive summer 2014. Visit Akai Professional for more details.

Rhythm Wolf highlights (from the official press release)
5-voice analog drum machine and synth—authentic analog design that references classic rhythm machines and synthesizers
Legendary analog drum sounds—kick, snare, open & closed hi-hat, and metallic percussion
Synth-bass module—selectable square or sawtooth wave with classic filter design for warm, deep basses and squelchy leads.
Onboard 32-step sequencer—classic drum machine workflow for quickly laying down grooves and melodies
Six genuine MPC pads—responsive controls for sequencing and finger drumming
Howl knob—custom distortion circuit for additional sound design
USB-MIDI and MIDI In/Out—flexible MIDI connectivity for easy integration into modern studios
Gate Trigger—triggering via modular synths, vintage sequencers, or external sound sources
Independent audio outputs—dedicated outputs for the drum machine and synth-bass module for precise mixing"

Update: full size pic & press release:

"AKAI PROFESSIONAL UNLEASHES THE RHYTHM WOLF

Leading music production equipment manufacturer debuts an analog drum machine and bass synthesizer inspired by the classics.

Cumberland, RI, USA—March 11, 2014. Akai Professional (akaipro.com), a leading innovator of music equipment for production and performance, announces the Rhythm Wolf, an analog drum machine and bass synthesizer module with built-in sequencing.

The Rhythm Wolf is an authentic analog instrument that combines the coveted sounds of early electronic and hip-hop music with genuine Akai Professional workflow. Inspired by the classic analog beat machines and synthesizers of the past, Rhythm Wolf enables today’s musicians to harness iconic analog sounds for music production and performance. The drum machine consists of five highly-tweakable drum sounds and includes a kick, snare, open & closed hi-hat, and metallic percussion. Onboard controls allow users to customize the tuning, amplitude envelopes, and volume of each drum voice separately for precise real-time adjustment. The bass synthesizer features a selectable oscillator (sawtooth or square wave), classic filter design, a filter envelope with variable decay, and is capable of creating powerful bass sounds and squelchy leads.

Outfitted with six genuine MPC pads and a built-in 32-step sequencer, the Rhythm Wolf provides an ultra-responsive interface with a classic drum machine layout. Drum patterns can be fine-tuned using the Rhythm Wolf features USB-MIDI, MIDI In/Out, a gate trigger, and integrates seamlessly with modern and vintage equipment.

Rhythm Wolf Highlights:
• 5-voice analog drum machine and synth—authentic analog design that references classic rhythm machines and synthesizers
• Legendary analog drum sounds—kick, snare, open & closed hi-hat, and metallic percussion
• Synth-bass module—selectable square or sawtooth wave with classic filter design for warm, deep basses and squelchy leads.
• Onboard 32-step sequencer—classic drum machine workflow for quickly laying down grooves and melodies
Swing function, Pattern Select, and Tempo Control knob. A custom
distortion signal path, activated by the “Howl” knob, adds grit and character for additional tone
shaping.
Two audio outputs enable producers and
performers to mix percussion sounds and bass independently.
• Six genuine MPC pads—responsive controls for sequencing and finger drumming
• Howl knob—custom distortion circuit for additional sound design
• USB-MIDI and MIDI In/Out—flexible MIDI connectivity for easy integration into modern
studios
• Gate Trigger—triggering via modular synths, vintage sequencers, or external sound
• —dedicated outputs for the drum machine and synth-bass

Akai Professional Product Manager Dan Gill notes, “The Rhythm Wolf puts those sought after analog drum machine and synthesizer sounds right into the hands of today’s musicians. We set out to make a compact drum machine and bass synthesizer, inspired by the classics, that can adapt to any studio setup and integrate with modern and vintage music equipment.”
The Rhythm Wolf will be available in Summer 2014, distributed worldwide with a $199.99 USD street price. Akai Professional will unveil the Rhythm Wolf at Musikmesse, Hall 5.1, Booth B45, March 12-15 in Frankfurt, Germany. For more information, visit: akaipro.com/messe2014.

###

About Akai Professional
The world’s most influential manufacturer of music production gear, Akai Professional (akaipro.com) develops creative technologies to empower music makers with tools that are unmatched in expressive capability. Akai Professional is best known for creating the legendary MPC, an instrument that has inspired generations of producers and performers and spawned entirely new genres of music. Akai Professional is a part of the inMusic Brands family (www.inmusicbrands.com)."

Update4:

Musikmesse 2014: Akai Rhythm Wolf Video

Published on Mar 11, 2014 delamartv·373 videos

Unfortunately no audio demo.

New ADDAC System ADDAC402 4 Voice Heuristic Rhythm Generator

"Coming soon, our 4 Voice Heuristic Rhythm Generator and MIDI In Out Expansion.

With 6 rhythm generation "algorithms / principles":
Euclidean (equal distribution)
Golomb Rulers (inequal distribution)
Prababilistic (predictable distribution)
Game Of Life (organic progression)
Footwork'n (inducted error progression)
Pong (voltage controlled Pong game)

Plus a 4 channel Gate Sequencer Mode with 16 presets.

Add ADDAC401B Expansion for full I/O Midi control plus access to a powerfu midi interface, with:
Midi Sync
5 cv to midi channels (notes and/or cc)
4 midi to gate channels
All panel controls (knobs, switches and push buttons) as cc controls.

All fully configurable with a midi learn feature for easier configuration."

http://addacsystem.com/product/addac400-series/addac402

New ADDAC System ADDAC209 VC Time Compensated Glide

"This is our take on a glide/slew circuit, it introduces a time compensation for the glide/slew rate so that any interval have the same glide time.
Normal glides have a fixed speed, they take X time to go up a semitone and X*12 to go up an octave, we thought of adding a compensation circuit to detect and dynamically change the speed according to the distance needed to be made, so that in the end it'll take the same time to reach the final destination no matter if the interval is 1 semitone or 3 octaves. This compensation feature (dry/wet) can controlled by the front panel knob or by CV.

Features:
VC Glide time
VC Compensation (dry/wet)
On/Off true bypass switch

Completely analog circuitry."

http://addacsystem.com/product/addac200-series/addac209

Vivian Kubrick - Full Metal Jacket, 1987

via Charlie Lesoine on The MATRIXSYNTH Lounge

"Some synth spotting. Vivian Kubrick in her bedroom, where she wrote the score for Full Metal Jacket, 1987. I see a DX5, a Fairlight and an Oberheim Xpander maybe?"

Full Metal Jacket OST- Leonard (Abigail Mead/Vivien Kubrick)

Uploaded on Sep 28, 2010

"Upload mp3s @ http://www.mp32tube.com Original soundtrack to Full Metal Jacket, composed by Stanley Kubrick's daughter Vivien (credited as 'Abigail Mead')"

"Magnetic Fields IV" - on Hohner GP-93

Published on Mar 10, 2014 organfairy·413 videos

"When Jean Michel Jarre made his Magnetic Fields album in 1981 he used the automatic organ Elka X-705 to record the fifth movement. But what if he had recorded the fourth movement with an automatic organ instead.
I don't have an Elka X-705 so I used a Hohner GP-93 instead. The pictures are from the inside of the organ. I had it opened up recently to repair a key that didn't want to stay in place. So I used the opportunity to make this video."