BAF 2025: Bastl Instruments Kastle 2 FX Wizard

video upload by sonicstate

"At BAF 2025 we met up with Vaclav from Bastle Instruments who gave us a look at the *Kastle 2 FX Wizard*, a compact patchable multi-effects processor with 9 core effects. Pitch shifting, stereo delays, flanging, freezing and autopanning are just some of the effects you can access, and everything can be synced externally or via the inbuilt LFO creating complex and flexible rhythmic effects. It seems like an extremely creative sound mangling device, and all in a tiny package."

BAF 2025: ALM Busy Circuits Motto Akemie + Turismo

video upload by sonicstate

"At BAF 2025, we caught up with Zoey from* ALM Busy Circuits*, who introduced us to their latest music technology innovations. Zoey *began by showcasing the *Motto Akemie iPad app, which can also function as a plug-in. This app combines six Akemies Taikos with sequencers, now running seamlessly on the iPad.

Zoe also discussed the *Turismo*, a full system featuring drums, multiple voices, filters, effects, and sequencing. This powerful setup includes popular modules like *Cizzle*. We also looked at their enhanced *MCO digital oscillator*, featuring multiple synthesizer voices, a simple interface, and additions like chords, presets, and a built-in vocoder engine."

BAF 2025: Dreadbox Artemis Polysynth

video upload by sonicstate

"at BAF 2025, we spoke with Orfeas from Dreadbox about *Artemis*, their forthcoming six-voice analogue synthesizer. The synth features dual VCOs per voice with full MPE compatibility, demonstrated alongside a ROLI Seabird for enhanced expression. Dreadbox introduced a through-zero FM capability, a first for the brand, allowing for more dynamic bass tones and FM-style sounds. The onboard modulation matrix lets you assign parameters to CCs, aftertouch, and polyaftertouch.

The synth comes with a classic Dreadbox filter, switchable between two and four poles, reminiscent of the Erebus series. Stereo voice panning is enabled through a voice spread function similar to the Murmux.

Effects from Sinevibes offer enhanced modulation, delays, and reverb options within four effect slots, providing greater creative control. Connectivity includes stereo outputs, USB for MIDI, and classic MIDI in/out. Expected availability is end of February to mid-March."

BAF 2025: Soma Harvezi Hazze Distortion Pedal

video upload by sonicstate

"At BAF 2025, we spoke with Felipe from Soma who gave us a brief tour of their entire range, including the lightweight Lyra 4. We then got to see the brand new Harvezi Hazze distortion pedal*. This pedal features unique wave folding capabilities while allowing versatile signal processing. The panel has options for tone stack, bass boost, tone mode, notch frequency, high cut, and a compressor, all adjustable via dip switches. Capable of handling guitar, bass, and other instruments, the pedal operates with a mono input and output and is powered by a 9V DC supply. It doesn't support battery power but fits well on a pedal board. The *Harvezi Hazze is available for pre-order at $350 in the US, with shipping expected imminently."

BAF 2025: Soma Harvezi Hazze Distortion Pedal

video upload by sonicstate

"At BAF 2025, we spoke with Felipe from Soma who gave us a brief tour of their entire range, including the lightweight Lyra 4. We then got to see the brand new Harvezi Hazze distortion pedal*. This pedal features unique wave folding capabilities while allowing versatile signal processing. The panel has options for tone stack, bass boost, tone mode, notch frequency, high cut, and a compressor, all adjustable via dip switches. Capable of handling guitar, bass, and other instruments, the pedal operates with a mono input and output and is powered by a 9V DC supply. It doesn't support battery power but fits well on a pedal board. The *Harvezi Hazze is available for pre-order at $350 in the US, with shipping expected imminently."

BAF 2025: Endorphin.es Cockpit X

video upload by sonicstate

"At BAF 2025 we hooked up with Andrea*s from *Endorphin.es who introduced us to a couple of new and updated modules, starting with the newest iteration of Cockpit*, their stereo 4 channel mixer with improved VCA chips for crystal clear audio quality, and a new simple to use layout. There are also two auxilliary inputs round the back, and sidechain ducking making it a great solution for Eurorack mixing. *Cockpit X is priced at 179 USD/Euros.

Andreas then showed us the new firmware for Ground Control sequencer with expanded functionality including the ability to load projects during live performance allowing for endless live shows with no stopping to load."

BAF 2025: Genki Instruments Katla Synthesizer

video upload by sonicstate

"At BAF 2025, we caught up with Kari from Genki Instruments who introduced us to the *Katla Synthesizer*. Touted as perhaps the first Icelandic synthesizer, Katla takes its inspiration from Iceland's largest volcano, featuring side panels made of lava rock, ensuring each unit is unique.

Katla *is a five-voice polysynth that marries elements from both polyphonic and paraphonic synth designs. It offers a range of modes, including a notably dynamic round robin mode, as well as unison options. Each voice in *Katla comes with its own filter, enveloping a unique avenue for creative expression.

The synth is complemented by a suite of modulation sources, including loopable envelopes and integrated LFOs. Effects on board such as stereo reverb and distortion expand its sonic capability. Currently in a digital prototype stage, Genki hopes to incorporate analog components before its release later this year.

More Info:

https://genkiinstruments.com/"

See the announcement post here.

BAF 2025: UDO RBN-1 Ribbon Controller

video upload by sonicstate

"We caught up with Mathieu from UDO at BAF 2025, where he introduced their new *Ribbon Controller*. While the existing ribbon is familiar to those using the Gemini, Mathieu explained that UDO wanted to make it available for other synths as well. The ribbon can now be magnetically attached to various keyboards, including the Super 8, and connects through an expression pedal input for broader compatibility.

Additionally, Mathieu revealed a new module designed for incorporation into modular systems. This module features dual touch functionality, allowing you to trigger two gates and two CVs concurrently. You can assign the first touch for pitch and the second for filter cutoff, with modes like hold to retain the last CV. A forthcoming looper function will enable recording and playback of CV and gates.

Matthew anticipated a March release for the ribbon and April for the module, with pricing around €300 for the ribbon and €200 for the module."

BAF 2025: Modbap Trinity 2.0

video upload by sonicstate

"At BAF 2025, we met with Corry from *Modbap*, who introduced the *Trinity 2.0*, showcasing both firmware and hardware upgrades. A notable hardware change is the shift to USB-C from USB Micro, accompanied by a sleek new aluminum matte black anodized design. Corey highlighted that the firmware remains backward compatible with the original Trinity, which makes it versatile for existing users.

Trinity 2.0 introduces two new drum algorithms: Orb, a modal drum synth, and Clang, a metallic FM drum synth, bringing the total to six. The updated version now supports saving four presets per channel, with the ability to manage these across three different sets. Functionality has been enhanced with a USB-C connection, facilitating seamless integration with MIDI controllers, allowing access to all presets. The product is expected to ship in February, retaining its price at $599."

Check with dealers on the right on upcoming availability.

BAF 2025: Sound Workshop Quord Drone Synth

video upload by sonicstate

"At BAF 2025, we caught up with Chris from Sound Workshop, who introduced the Quord drone synth. Chris explained that the Chord is a departure from his previous work with the expressive mono synth, Wiggler*. He described the *Quord as a drone synth that instantly produces sound upon activation, differentiating itself by being capable of playing chords with its four-note setup. The synth uses long sliders to tune four sawtooth waves and short sliders for mixing, with knobs for sound shaping.

Quord includes an analog filter, adapted from the PosiCell Eurorack module, designed by Carson from DecaPod Devices. The Quord also incorporates an LFO that modifies the filter, along with a distortion effect. Chris emphasized fun features like the resonance button and showcased a bass drum effect created by the LFO within the audio mix, simulating a side-chain effect. Pre-orders for the Chord began, with an April shipping target and priced at $399.

More Info:

https://soundwork.shop/"

See this post for an additional demo.