RS053 Death Star xp2: Red Sound Dark Star

video upload by rejected synths

"Sometimes one seemingly smart idea is enough to kill a whole company: The DeLorean DC-12 looked great on paper (and in Back to Future) but buried DeLorean as a company, Jiucero soon went out of juice, when people realized that DRM juice was actually as bad an idea on paper as it was in reality and the Red Sound Dark Star, well it was probably a tad bit too ambitious for the company that created it.

Sure, Virtual Analog was the next big thing, when the Dark Star was being incepted. and sure, the Virus was another VA synth by a small company that still managed to very well. So at the time, creating their own take on a VA synth most certainly sounded like a sound idea for Red Sound and, again, on paper, it sounded like a great product: Eight voices, five part multitimbrality, very solid built quality, stereo audio ins, built in expandability and, at just below 500€, a price much lower than what others were asking for.

So how could it fail this hard even after the price was lowered to well below 200€? Was it really as bad and laggy as people seemed to agree it was? Or did it just fall victim to a bad reputation? After all, the internet was another ‘product’ on the rise at that time and with it, of course, came people hating on the poor Dark Star in forums all over the net.

Sure, the Dark Star can suck, it can be slow and laggy, but as I think I’ve showed time and again on this channel, ‘bad’ synths can also often rise above their reputation when you use them just right. And of course, thanks to it’s reputation as the ‘worst VA’ it’s still one of those rare cases where you can still find an old synth at very reasonable prices.

Curious? Well then go board the ship, we’re about to take off…"

Tracklist:

0:00 Intro
0:21 Introduction
1:36 Sound Engine
3:34 Demo Song Snippet
4:23 Controls and Connectors
5:58 P35 Fat Saw Bass
6:43 P07 Plank Spank
7:44 P09 Jupitous
8:34 P41 Flower
9:30 P15 Brightly
10:32 Demo Song 1: House Org
11:30 Demo Song 2: Trance Layer
12:47 Conclusion
14:35 Outro

RS053.1 Red Sound Dark Star 'No Talking Edition'


"This is a shorter 'No Talking' edit of my video about the Red Sound Dark Star for those who prefer 'pure' demos without comments."

Tracklist:

0:00 Tracklist
0:08 Factory Demo Snippet
0:42 P52 Fat Saw Bass
1:27 P07 Plank Spanker
2:28 P09 Jupitous
3:18 P41 Flower
4:14 P15 Brightly
5:06 Multi Demo 1: House Org
6:03 Multi Demo 2: Trance Layer
7:22 Outro

RS053.2 Red Sound Dark Star Factory Demo Songs


"Time for some bonus content again, I've created some visuals for the Factory Demo Song(s) of the Dark Star.

These can be accessed by holding Audition and pressing Modulation

Enjoy!"

RS050 Waldorf Rack Attack: Analog Virtual

video upload by rejected synths

"Being way ahead of your time more often than not isn‘t actually that great. Sure, sometimes innovation pays off big time, but for some reason, pushing boundaries and conventions often won’t instantly get you the acclaim you actually deserve.

This happened more than once in general history (and in synth history too) and it is certainly true for the VST plugin turned Rack unit featured in this video. These days, it’s fairly common for us to see manufacturers squeezing what are essentially plugins into tiny shiny boxes (Roland Boutique anyone?) and while you could get the same sound for less (or free?) in your DAW, physical buttons an knobs always have a tendency to spark creativity and fun in a way that is seldom achieved sitting in front of a big screen, squeezing virtual buttons and knobs with your mouse cursor.

While The Waldorf Rack Attack certainly isn’t as portable and/or affordable as your average Volca, for me it’s an absurdly fun machine. When I took up collecting the actual hardware synths I could not afford as a teen I was absolutely baffled when I learned that Waldorf had also released a hardware version of the Attack, one of my all time favorite VST plugins, in 2002. I instantly wanted it but it took me several years to find one at an even remotely affordable price.

On the very few occasions I managed to find a unit at a reasonable, I was always too late and someone snagged it away from me before I could make an offer. This way I learned that I don’t seem to be the only one to appreciate this freaky machine. But with some patience (actually a few years of patience) I finally manged to find and buy one myself. To my surprise it turned out that the Rack Attack was even more awesome than I had expected, because Waldorf was kind enough to add some extra magic to the rack version of the Attack, it isn’t just an incredibly wild sounding percussion and drum synth but can also be used to create all kinds of synth sounds and even comes with a built in sequencer. It turned out that, with some planning ahead, you could create full tracks on a single Rack Attack and the pattern sequencer can be a great tool in any dawless setup.

Only very few people seem to know about this absolute gem of an machine, not much at all can be fond on YouTube itself, well until now that is ;)"

Tracklist:

0:00 Intro
0:43 A pretty long Introduction
4:38 The Attack Sound Engine
6:09 Rack Attack Demo Song
7:36 Controls and Connectivity
8:58 Preset Drumkit Demo Patterns
11:03 Plugin Mode Sound Demos
12:53 Pattern Sequencer
15:38 Plugin Mode Demo Song
18:48 Conclusion
19:27 Outro

RS050.1 Waldorf Rack Attack 'No Talking' Edition

"This is a shorter 'No Talking' edit of my video about the Behringer Neutron for those who prefer 'pure' demos without comments."

0:00 Factory Demo Song 3
1:30 Preset Drumkit Demo Patterns
3:35 Poly Mode Sound Demos
5:14 Pattern Sequencer Demo
7:35 Poly Mode Demo Song

RS050.2 Waldorf Rack Attack: Factory Demo Songs


"Aa a little bonus goodie and to celebrate the fact that I replaced my ancient 2012 graphics card with a slightly less 2017 one, I did practice some more blender fu and created some visuals for the other two demo songs I haven't featured in my original Waldorf Attack video."

Doepfer Musikelektronik MS 404: Modular at Heart

video upload by rejected synths

"Ah, the 90s! Those were easier days. No Covid, no masks, and sadly also...no 303s!

While this is an issue that has prevailed ever since, back in the 90s, when Techno ruled supreme, this lack of 303s also gave rise to a whole cottage industry of 303 cloners, companies small and tiny, set up to give ravers what they wanted: one of those shiny acid boxes or, a bit later, when techno production became more professionalized, handy 19 inch rack clones that integrated well into a studio setup, complete with midi and controls over parameters.

Dieter Doepfer, possibly best known for fathering the Eurorack standard, also tried his hand in the cloning business, or at least it seemed, because apart from the obvious naming reference, the MS 404 actually has very little to do with a faithful 303 emulation. Doepfer instead went ahead and created a far more capable machine, that can do about 101 things a 303 can‘t, but, ironically, also can‘t really do 303.

In this video, I will show you some of these things, also including this one thing it obviously can‘t.

So lean back and enjoy some fine German engineering!

Tracklist:

0:00 Intro
1:05 Introduction
3:39 Controls and Connectivity
6:50 Demo I: Not quite 303
8:45 Demo II: Noisy
10:35 Demo III: Does it PWM?
12:36 Demo IV: Dual LFO Mayhem
14:49 Demo V: Filter Input
16:32 Demo Jam
20:21 Concusion
20:59 Outro"

RS046.1 Doepfer Musikelektronik MS 404 'No Talking Edition'


RS047 Tech Support: Doepfer MS-404 - Some Simple Mods


"As a kid, growing up on shows like A-Team and Mc Gyver, I used to think that, with some knowledge, you could just hack things together, like they did on these shows, building useful gear from junk that happened to be around. This fascination never quite left me and led to me unscrewing broken electronics to have a peek inside, imagining I would be able to build something cool.

But, growing up in the 80s meant there still wasn’t any YouTube or even basic internet around just yet, so the only resources where I could have learned some basic electronics stuff were wildly confusing and much too complicated for me back then, so I resorted to Legos.

Much later, I learned how to (barely) handle a soldering iron and toyed around with some simple electronics projects, collecting some knowledge here and there. So when I finally ended up with the service manual of the MS 404 I knew the time had come to try some synth modding.

The Service Manual didn’t only provide me with schematics but even included some suggestions on how to mod the 404. Even better, during it’s very design, the synth had already been created with expandability/moddability in mind. And because it ain’t no tiny electronics Volca, even my limited soldering skills are suffice to realize some of these modifications.

The first, and probably easiest thing I did, was to tap into multiple jumpers layed out around the board, this way, it’s super easy to add switches for LFO waveform selection and filter envelope behavior.

The second mod is a little more demanding, it’s something I came about when trying to build a tiny crossfade mixer. Utilizing a pot, it’s actually possible, to mix the signals of the saw and square wave VCO outputs, so I did that as well as adding a second pot in order to be able to mix in some noise into the VCO signal, sh101 style.

I’ve tested my ideas thoroughly before going as far as drilling holes into the faceplate, and from what I’ve learned about electronics so far, which isn’t too much to be honest, they should be safe modifications when applied correctly. Still, I just want to make it a 100% sure that I will not take any responsibility when you damage your 404 while applying any of these mods."

Akai AX60 with Tauntek Upgrade

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

via this auction

"Akai AX60 Analog Synthesizer with Tauntek firmware upgrade and recapped power supply. Excellent condition and works perfectly.

tauntek.com/AX60.htm

Tauntek firmware upgrade adds the following features:

1) MIDI Sysex patch save and restore - saves or restores all patches in one operation (tape save/load works as before)

2) MIDI cc parameter changes are now supported

3) Non-volatile storage of MIDI channel setting and current patch

4) Slider code modified as described above to avoid jumpiness

5) Adjustable Unison de-tune feature. (Not active in split mode) (can be disabled)

6) Random arpeggiator mode instead of "play all notes" mode (can be disabled)

7) Arpeggiator up/down mode which doesn't repeat the top and bottom keys (can be disabled)

8) Slow LFO mode which halves the frequency over the entire range of the LFO (can be disabled)

9) VCF resonance slider taper mod to move oscillation point up (overall range is not changed) (can be disabled)

10) ADSR slider tapers mod to increase effect in the lower part (overall range is not changed) (can be disabled)

11) MIDI clocking of arpeggiator with choice of 48,24,12, or 6 PPQ (can be disabled for internal or 1/4" jack clocking)

12) Sustain mode can be activated using Arp Hold switch

13) MIDI Note velocity added to VCA EG Depth setting mode (but new setting also affects notes played on AX60, can be disabled)"

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Oberheim OB-Mx - Four Voice

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

via this auction

"90's Oberheim OBMX with 2 voice cards (four voice in total). Very good condition. These are very rare and even more rare with 2 voice cards."

Oberheim Two Voice TVS-1A SN 0213

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

via this auction

"Serviced Two Voice with the later compensated sequencer. Voice 1 Gate and CV in/out have been added for more flexibility. This Two Voice has had one owner and is excellent shape. It's fully calibrated and performing as it should. One of the SEM modules was signed by Tom Oberheim which is neat (can provide signing photos) who enjoyed seeing it in great shape. There are a LOT of patch out points on the modules, for control send/returns, and the sequencer can be wired for external clock option.

There are sounds I was never able to achieve before playing the SEMs with the sequencer - I've found the Two Voice to be one of the most flexible and instantly creative synths - magic."

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Multivox MX-3000 Analog Monophonic / Polyphonic String Bass Synthesizer SN 856031

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

via this auction

Demo in the listing previously posted here. You can find additional posts featuring the Multivox MX-3000 including demos here.

"The MX-3000 is a rare synthesizer that comprises of a bass section, polyphonic string synthesizer, and monophonic synth section. The bass section is fairly simple with a switch for sustain or infinite hold, a slider for release, a 3 position switch for brightness, and glide. The polyphonic section features a low pass filter, a lush ensemble chorus and vibrato effect section, an LFO, ASR envelope, a number of standard preset sounds. The monophonic section sports a familiar collection of parameters including, selectable waveform oscillator, noise generator, LFO, a resonant low pass VCF, 2 ADSRs, and VCA. All of which feed into a mixer section for arranging levels for optimal performance."

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ELKA SYNTHEX MK I w/ Extras

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.
video upload by Fever X Synth ®

via this auction

Pics of the inside below.

"Info for collectors: this is the first version of the synth. meaning there's NO LEGS and NO MIDI. Even internally differs because the motherboard circuits has a total of 4 EPROM instead of 3 that you will find in the next generations.

If you are looking for the best way to enter the analog world and you want a collector's item (prices go up faster than a Jupiter 8...) the ELKA SYNTHEX must be yours.

PHYSICAL CONDITION: VERY GOOD ✪ ✪ ✪ ✪ 4/5

This keyboard is in very good condition, with some expected signs of ageing, including some scratches and nicks. There is no rust on the chassis. The main panel is almost scratchless except for a scratch visibile in the upper center of the synth well shown in the pictures n. 21 attached to this listing. The letter "H" of SYNTHEX on the back has a little scratch (picture n.5). The ELKA plate on the right is slightly scratched (picture n. 19). The wood side panel on the right has some scuffs (photo n. 21 + 7). The wood side panel on the left has some nicks on the upper back and in the middle (photo n. 20 + 6). Few scratches/nicks on the bottom of both wood side panels. The wood bottom of the synth presents various scratched (pictures from 14 to 18). Keys are brilliant white (no yellowing on them), none are loose or wobbly. The "tuning" (picture n. 25) and sequencer "frequency" (picture 22) pot caps are slightly scratched. The first numbers in the master volume pot area are fading away due to a discoloration (picture 23). No battery leakage damage. Always stored in its flight case in a temperature controlled room.

WORKING CONDITION: EXCELLENT ✪ ✪ ✪ ✪ ✪ 5/5

This unit has been thoroughly tested. It is 100% fully functional. All faders do their job without noise, and all LEDs work perfectly. All keys play accurately. All voices, buttons, keys, sliders, switches, inputs and outputs work 100%. The original factory presets are still there. The original sustain pedal work as it should. Please see the demo-video attached to this listing to check everything in the description.

SERVICED: NO

ACCESSORIES INCLUDED:

Original Bundle Sustain Pedal
Original Bundle Paper "User Manual"
2 x Service invoice dated 1992 coming from the official ELKA Service (Generalmusic)
Flight Case"

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Böhm Dynamic 4x9 Vintage FM Synth with Analogue Phaser + Ensemble

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.
RS051.1 Dr Böhm Dynamic 4x9 'No Talking Edition' video upload by rejected synths

"This is a shorter 'No Talking' edit of my video about the Dr Böhm Dynamic 4x9 for those who prefer 'pure' demos without comments. If you like it, go watch the full video, it features additional information about the machine:"

You can find additional demos and a brochure of the 12/24 model in previous posts here.

RS051 Dr Böhm Dynamic 4x9: FM Tank

video upload by rejected synths

Dopfer gets a mention at 2:17.

"Japanese manufacturers today are the big players in the synth world and they have been so for quite a while. But just like there are today, there have always been other choices too. Small manufacturers from many different countries add their own distinctive ‚flavors‘ and always have.

Take for example today‘s synth, the Dr Böhm Dynamic 4x9. It‘s a very German fully programmable 4OP FM-Synth monster. Big and heavy (and some might say over-engineered) like a German sedan. Stuffed to the brim with the latest technology (from the mid 80s) it clearly exceeds the capabilities of most of it’s contemporary peers. Featuring a whooping 36 voices (and 36 part multitimbrality), it is equipped with dual midi ports, lots of outputs, two analog effects boards and abundance of memory for patches and takes up a LOT of parking, ehm, rack space.

The biggest difference of course is, that you don’t have to built you Mercedes or BMW yourself, (and didn’t have to back in the 80s). A Doctor Böhm however was a DIY affair, to own one, you had to built one yourself. It’s no surprise then, that the 4x9 never became too popular or even widely known outside of it’s native country. So it’s actually much less a Beamer and more like a Bitter SC Sedan… or a German tank, if you go by its impressive weight or the thickness of the metal used for the casing ;)"

via this auction

Pic of the inside below.

"This one‘s a real hidden gem.

Developed in 1987 by the german organ factory Böhm (formerly known as Dr. Böhm) the Dynamic 4x9 is a 9 voice multitimbral 4 Operator FM Synthesizer with Bucket Brigade Effects Phaser and Ensemble. And it‘s got Yamaha (YM2203) ICs.

4x9 means you can route 4 Midi Channels, each with 9 Voices, separately. You got a stereo out and you got four single outs to mix each of the four channels separately.

Dynamic means you got aftertouch and velocity.

The attached video shows all functions and what the 4x9 sounds like.

Device works flawless, some scratches on top, no leaked battery. Looks fine inside.

220 Volt.

For 110 Volts you need a voltage converter"

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Seaboard RISE 2: Introducing Semitone Legato

video upload by ROLI

"Semitone Legato is an inbuilt Seaboard RISE 2 feature that lets you create astonishingly expressive tracks. Toggle it on and off while playing different parts and presets on the Keywave2 surface — and unlock the full potential of an MPE instrument able to master any musical style.

WHAT IS SEMITONE LEGATO?

Semitone Legato is a RISE 2 setting perfect for playing luscious, fluid leads and shimmering vibrato. In this setting, pitchbend between each note — the Glide Dimension of Touch — is set to maximum. Make sure it's switched on if you're recording a richly expressive or microtonal part, such as a bowed-string instrument melody.

Semitone Legato is on by default when the Glide Fader is set to 100%. You can adjust it on the RISE 2 control panel, or within your included ROLI Dashboard software.

PLAYING WITHOUT SEMITONE LEGATO

For Seaboard parts where you need plenty of distinct tones and semitones — for instance a melody line with many chromatic notes or a jazzy chord accompaniment — it’s often better not to activate Semitone Legato. As the Glide Dimension of Touch is turned down, each keywave will behave closer to distinct keyboard or piano keys, with less sensitivity to gliding, vibrato gestures.

To turn Semitone Legato off or down, simply adjust the Glide Fader below 100% on the side panel or in ROLI Dashboard. Don’t forget, you can adjust Glide in real time with the side panel Touch Fader — even mid-performance.

Any musical style is possible with Seaboard RISE 2: https://bit.ly/semitonelegato"