BAF 2025: Black Corporation Expander MK2

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"At NAMM 2025, we caught up with Roman from Black Corporation who walked us through their latest innovations. First up was the Monolith*, a signal generator not created by *Black Corporation*, but developed by *Black Corporation team members. Roman explained that the Monolith allows you to generate presets, LFOs, arpeggiators, and MIDI CC. This versatile device outputs via USB host, TRS MIDI, or USB-C to computer, providing an easy way to enhance your hardware synths with additional oscillators, LFOs, and envelopes.

Then we got a look at the *Expander MK2*, which represents Roman's dream multi-effect processor. Featuring classic delay models including the Lexicon PCM42 and a BBD delay, the Expander MK2 incorporates two types of reverbs - including one developed in collaboration with Maris - as well as a spring reverb with digital pre-delay and a Tilt EQ. With a rich array of modulation options, including a ring modulator and OTA-based phasers, the Expander MK2 is a comprehensive solution for integrating multiple effects. It boasts extensive connectivity options and total recall via MIDI CC. The Expander MK2 is set to ship at the end of spring 2025 at a starting price of $5,000, with pre-orders available for this reduced price before an anticipated increase."

See the announcement post with demos here.

BAF 2025: Elektron Digitone 2

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"We caught up with Ricky Tinez at the Elektron booth, who introduced us to the *Digitone 2*. This updated iteration has seen a significant boost in capabilities compared to its predecessor with an expansion from four to 16 tracks and voices, and the inclusion of multiple machine types. Notable additions include FM Drum, Wavetone, and Swarmer machines, advancing its sonic versatility. The Wavetone offers wavetables with smooth interpolation between its two oscillators.

Ricky demonstrated the intuitive page navigation that streamlines access to different settings and highlighted features like the morphing filter and separate noise generator with its envelope and filter. The FM Drum, a new addition, supports creative synthesis beyond conventional drum sounds, showing potential for melodic applications.

Users can also access deeper modulation, with three LFOs providing enhanced control."

BAF 2025: New Systems Instruments Discrete Map

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"At BAF 2025 we met up with Evan at New Systems Instruments who introduced us to Discrete Map, their new sequencer concept. Discrete Map takes external signals which can be modified by the relative position of the sliders on the front panel to set amounts and timings of triggers, step lengths and more.

The sequencer also runs at audio rate or in one shot mode making its application very versatile. Discrete* Map* is due for release in March 2025."

BAF 2025: Tobinsky Instruments Harmonic Timing Generator

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"At NAMM 2025, we caught up with Tom from Tobinsky, who presented the *Harmonic Timing Generator*. This innovative piece of gear creates harmonics of its basic signal, which can be utilized in either low frequency or audio modes. Tom demonstrated how the generator can control up to four tracks of a sequencer, showcasing its ability to maintain harmonic timing.

The generator features a master out section, along with selectable tracks, enabling complex modulation including ratcheting effects. The setup also incorporates a control panel with switches, allowing you to seamlessly connect and synchronize with other devices.

Furthermore, Tom highlighted its open architecture, which offers a scanner mixing function. This feature can transform waveforms into sine waves for mellow tones or pan signals for mixing. You can control it via CV inputs, offering a wide range of creative possibilities. The prototypes are in production, with an estimated price around $400.

More Info:

https://www.tobinski-audio.com/about"

The Harmonic Timing Generator is a versatile Eurorack module that blends advanced clock generation with harmonic waveform manipulation. Designed to seamlessly integrate with the Tobinski Sequencer and Interpolating Scanner, this module is an exceptional tool for rhythmic and tonal creativity in your modular system.

As a reference clock generator, the Harmonic Timing Generator produces a base frequency with analogue multipliers (x1 to x8) to generate complex timing signals. Three selectors provide manual or voltage-controlled frequency switching, offering flexibility for intricate sequencing patterns. An LFO mode enables slower clocking rates, ideal for driving sequencers or generating modulation sources.

When used with the Interpolating Scanner, the sawtooth outputs of the Harmonic Timing Generator are transformed into sine waves. This allows the module to function as a harmonic oscillator at audio rates or as a versatile modulation source in LFO mode. Its dual functionality ensures that it can adapt to a wide range of patching needs, from rhythm generation to rich harmonic exploration.

The Harmonic Timing Generator is a versatile and creative tool, offering rhythmic and harmonic possibilities that complement any modular synthesizer setup. Its integration with other Tobinski modules ensures a cohesive and expansive sonic palette.

BAF 2025: Buchla AUX Oscillator Card for Easel Series

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"At NAMM 2025, we caught up with Nick from Buchla*, where he introduced us to the new *AUX Oscillator Card for the Easel series. This digital auxiliary oscillator card is designed to integrate with the 208 C revision of the Buchla 208 voice, featured on the modern and retro Easel editions, as well as the Easel Command.

The AUX Oscillator Card offers a host of features, including a CV multiplier for tenfold voltage utility, a random pulse input, and a noise generator. It allows for three-operator frequency modulation by supplying an additional oscillator. Nick explained that while it's a digital oscillator, the voltages interacting within the system remain analog. The card also supports a card doubler, enabling simultaneous use of the AUX Oscillator Card with other cards."

BAF 2025: Polyend Step Drum Machine

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"At BAF 2025, Polyend introduced Step*, a stereo drum machine in pedal form. *Mitch from Polyend shared insights about this device, designed to facilitate quick and enjoyable beat-making while you play your instrument. The drum machine features a 16-step, 4-track sequencer and operates on a sample-based platform. It allows you to select from over 200 pre-loaded drum kits, with the ability to add and customize your own samples.

Control is made intuitive with a stomp switch, enabling effortless pattern changes and effects customization. You can utilize a tap tempo function for keeping in sync, and manage samples via USB and SD card connections. This pedal is particularly suitable for guitarists and synth players who desire dynamic rhythm accompaniment without interrupting their performance. The stereo playback and processing include panning, reverb, and delay effects. The pedal is now available for shipping at a cost of $499 USD/Euro."

Check with dealers on the right for availability.

BAF 2025: Synthskinz Magnetic and Adhesive Skins

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"At NAMM 2025, we caught up with Jeff from Synthskinz, who introduced us to their innovative skin designs for electronic music equipment. Having gained extensive experience in creating skins for DJ equipment, 12-Inch Skins decided to venture into the synth world through their sister company, *Synth Skins*. These skins cater to a wide range of gear, including groove boxes and synthesizers. Jeff explained how the skins provide both aesthetic and practical benefits, allowing you to write on them with a Sharpie, which can be easily cleaned with an alcohol rub.

The skins are available in various materials, including exotic and metallic options, and supported by certain magnetic applications for steel-bodied devices. A fixed design process is initially being offered, with potential customization for designers. Pricing starts at around $40, depending on material choices. The glowing and UV options add a unique touch to your gear.

More Info:

https://synthskinz.com/"

BAF 2025: Bastl Instruments Kastle 2 FX Wizard

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"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

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"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

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"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."