MATRIXSYNTH

NAMM 2025: A Look at Roland's Galaxias 1.5

video upload by sonicstate

"We caught up with Matt from Roland, who provided an overview of the latest iteration of Galaxis 1.5 at NAMM 2025. This version, launching next week, represents the essence of Roland Cloud as a super instrument encapsulating 50 years of Roland's legacy into a single plugin. Matt explained how Galaxis allows you to search 23,000 sounds across its interface, making it effortless to find the right sound without delving into every piece of hardware.

New features in version 1.5 include the ability to save and export scenes and custom set lists, along with two new effects: the Roland JC-120 and a new modulation delay.

He highlighted the plugin's capabilities like stacking layers called scenes and using macro controls for mapping multiple parameters. Each macro also features a dedicated LFO for enhanced sound manipulation. Galaxis 1.5 will be available at the end of January through the Roland Cloud Ultimate subscription."

NAMM 2025: KV331 SynthMaster 3.1 Update

video upload by sonicstate

"At NAMM 2025, we caught up with Bulent from KV331 Audio, who introduced us to the latest SynthMaster 3.1 enhancements. Bolin explained two major updates: firstly, the capability to transform SynthMaster into a drum kit, allowing up to 128 patterns that can be customized and assigned to different keys. This feature supports both samples and synthesis, enabling the creation of diverse drum presets, including rich Middle Eastern rhythms.

Secondly, Bulent described the new vintage voice modifiers. These allow each voice's oscillator, envelope, and filter to have distinct vintage characteristics, emulating poly-analog synths with variable parameter discrepancies simulating classic analog behavior.

The SynthMaster 3.1 update is compatible with Mac and PC platforms, with iOS support expected by summer. This free update offers enhanced sonic possibilities across virtual analog, wavetable, granular, and other synthesis engines, providing extensive versatility."

NAMM 2025: Roland Juno-D Keyboards

video upload by sonicstate

"At NAMM 2025, Nick from Sonicstate caught up with Ed from Roland to discuss the updated Roland Juno-D series. Initially released in September, the Juno-D offers three variations: a 61-note synth, a 76-note synth action, and an 88-note piano action keyboard. It features the ZEN-Core sound engine, boasting 3,500 sounds that you can split and layer across seven parts. Additionally, there is a dedicated rhythm part, and the built-in pattern sequencer enhances creative capabilities.

Ed explained that the Juno-D utilizes PCM-based sounds and supports Roland Cloud and ZENOLOGY Pro for deeper sound editing. The Juno-D includes USB-C power, eliminating the need for AA batteries, and it utilizes USB-C for seamless computer connection without requiring drivers. The keyboard supports splitting and layering, with up to seven layers in super layer mode. It also includes a 64-step sequencer, built-in rhythms, and phrase pads for recording and playback. The model offers 256-note polyphony, making it versatile for live performances."

Melbourne Instruments ROTO-CONTROL: Motorized MIDI Controller for Software and Hardware

video upload by Melbourne Instruments

Press release follows:

Introducing ROTO-CONTROL, motorized MIDI controller for software and hardware

Following the debut success of their revolutionary analog synth NINA in 2023 and the hybrid polysynth DELIA in 2024, Melbourne Instruments announce ROTO-CONTROL, a motorized MIDI controller for software and hardware. Roto-Control brings Melbourne Instruments’ motorized knob technology to a MIDI controller in a powerful, portable, affordable tool for studio and live applications.

Roto-Control is now shipping. [check with dealers on the right for avialability]

Introducing a truly unique motorized MIDI controller, unlike anything seen before. Rethink software and hardware interactions via fully assignable motorized touch-sensitive knobs, user definable haptics for detailed control, high-res screens providing easy-to-read labels for every control, and internal memory with storage for over 8000 assignments. Powerful, compact, and portable, Roto-Control features three main modes of operation: MIX, PLUGIN and MIDI with Motion Recorder.

CLICK FOR MORE »

NAMM 2025: Roland V-Stage

video upload by sonicstate

"At NAMM 2025, we caught up with David from Roland, who introduced us to the latest release, the *Roland V-Stage*. This all-in-one keyboard is tailored for keyboard enthusiasts, featuring dedicated sections for various sounds, including organ, acoustic piano, and dual synthesizers.

It supports quick operational functionality enhanced by multiple sound engines. The V-Piano section offers virtual piano capabilities utilizing modeling instead of sample-based methods, featuring brand new sounds like the upright V-Piano.

You can explore the Supernatural E-Piano, with its blend of sampling and modeling technologies, or delve into the virtual tone wheel organ, equipped with harmonic bars and advanced rotary effects. Additional features of the V-Stage include unlimited polyphony for organ and V-Piano, and a shared 256 voices for synthesizer parts. It also includes a USB-C audio/MIDI interface, effects section with over 90 types, and a microphone input fitting for stage performers. The V-Stage is now available in 76 and 88-key versions."

NAMM vs NEWS, & UPDATES

This is just a reminder on how the NAMM and NEWS labels for the site work.

You'll find labels at the bottom of posts. Click on them to filter posts on the site by the given label.

NAMM will take you to coverage of the event.

NEWS will take you to the first announcement post on new gear. You can click on the brand label for additional posts or search on the right for the name of the new gear.

UPDATES will take you to posts that have had updates since first going up.

Bookmark them or just look for them at the bottom of posts. P.S. If you scroll through posts to the last post you viewed, the only label you'd need to check is the UPDATES label.

Behringer DX1 Spotted at NAMM

At 2:09 in CatSynth TV's NAMM video here.

Rumor is it will have an analog filter as well.

A Yamaha DX1 with added analog filter.

Update: and a few pics via the interwebs:

Note the Anlog Multi-Mode Filter section.

Update2: It's the Behringer BX1.

CLICK FOR MORE »

CME Unveils the C2MIDI Pro: The MIDI Cable Redefined

Press release follows:

[Amsterdam, 23 January 2025] – CME is excited to announce the launch of the C2MIDI Pro, a revolutionary dual-purpose USB-C MIDI cable that also functions as a standalone MIDI filter, mapper, and router. Designed for musicians, producers, and engineers, the C2MIDI Pro delivers groundbreaking performance and precision, redefining what a MIDI cable can do.

Innovative Features:
Dual-Functionality: Operates as a USB MIDI Interface or a Smart MIDI Cable.
Future-Proof Performance: Powered by a cutting-edge 32-bit processor, it ensures ultra-accurate transmission with high-speed optocouplers and four times the standard processing speed.
Advanced MIDI Tools: Includes free UxMIDI Tools software (compatible with Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android) to configure the C2MIDI Pro as a filter, mapper, or router.
Universal Compatibility: Works seamlessly with macOS, iOS, Windows, Android, Linux, and Chrome OS.
Ultimate Precision: Guarantees 100% exact transfer of dense MIDI data without latency, jitter, or dropouts.

“The C2MIDI Pro combines innovation, precision, and ease of use in a single cable. It’s not just a MIDI cable; it’s a game-changing tool for every MIDI enthusiast,” said Zhao Yitian, CEO of CME.

The C2MIDI Pro is designed to meet the needs of the modern music industry. With its retractable USB-C plug, dual-color MIDI connectors, and seamless integration with any MIDI setup, it empowers users to explore their creativity without limits.

Visit CME CEO Zhao Yitian at Booth #10302 of the MIDI Association.

Availability
The C2MIDI Pro will be open for presale and shipping at the beginning of February 2025. MAP: US$ 29.99

For additional details, visit our website: https://www.cme-pro.com/c2midi-pro/"

CatSynth Live at NAMM 2025!

video upload by CatSynth TV

"We will open our NAMM 2025 coverage with a quick walk around the "keyboard and synth area" of the show floor. Get a feel for the scope and array of exhibitors, and share you thoughts on what offerings you would like to see us cover in our videos from the show 😻🎹📺"