Me & a Yamaha CS10
Friday, March 31, 2006
Thursday, March 30, 2006
Terratec Area 61 Expandable Keyboard System
Now this is interesting. The Terratec Area 61 is a MIDI controller with optional built in DSP boards that can host different synth engines. To start they will offer the Terratec Komplexer (basically a Waldorf uQ) and the WaveXtable (more below). In via Harmony Central News. Title link takes you to full release.
"TerraTec Producer will unveil a unique keyboard at the Frankfurt Musikmesse - AREA 61. Based on an unprecedented design, AREA 61 is an expandable keyboard system for studio and gigging musicians. It is a genuine musical instrument with freely selectable, integrated sound generators (optionally available DSP soundboards) that may also serve as a central control unit for all software sequencers and virtual instruments in computer-based music studios.
Sound Generation Options
In addition, keyboardists can equip AREA 61 with optionally available sound modules for use as a classic synthesizer, that is, without a computer. To this end, TerraTec Producer now offers KOMPLEXER, a synthesizer that runs as a VSTi plug-in and as a standalone DSP application. Comprising a real synthesizer based on the Waldorf μQ, it provides more than 400 parameters for shaping the perfect sound. And if this complexity seems a bit overwhelming at first, keyboardists can go to the Easy Edit page, choose from the many presets and easily manipulate their selections using eight Macro controls. Best of all, entire banks port from KOMPLEXER VST to AREA 61's on-board KOMPLEXER DSP. This means KOMPLEXER VST goes wherever the keyboard goes, without having to tote a computer.
Released last year, the WaveXtable module is a 128-voice, GM- and XG-compatible Waveboard offering more than 500 top-drawer sounds. Further modules are in the works. Users can employ other vendors' compatible Wavetable cards, making the AREA 61 a remarkably extendible instrument.
The integrated sound generator's analog output signal goes to the output mixer and may be auditioned with the 2.0 audio system's playback signal as well as over the input monitor. Recording the output signal via USB 2.0 is also an option. The AREA 61 Controller Keyboard will be available in stores in Q 3/ 2006 retailing for 749.00 USD (MSRP)."
"TerraTec Producer will unveil a unique keyboard at the Frankfurt Musikmesse - AREA 61. Based on an unprecedented design, AREA 61 is an expandable keyboard system for studio and gigging musicians. It is a genuine musical instrument with freely selectable, integrated sound generators (optionally available DSP soundboards) that may also serve as a central control unit for all software sequencers and virtual instruments in computer-based music studios.
Sound Generation Options
In addition, keyboardists can equip AREA 61 with optionally available sound modules for use as a classic synthesizer, that is, without a computer. To this end, TerraTec Producer now offers KOMPLEXER, a synthesizer that runs as a VSTi plug-in and as a standalone DSP application. Comprising a real synthesizer based on the Waldorf μQ, it provides more than 400 parameters for shaping the perfect sound. And if this complexity seems a bit overwhelming at first, keyboardists can go to the Easy Edit page, choose from the many presets and easily manipulate their selections using eight Macro controls. Best of all, entire banks port from KOMPLEXER VST to AREA 61's on-board KOMPLEXER DSP. This means KOMPLEXER VST goes wherever the keyboard goes, without having to tote a computer.
Released last year, the WaveXtable module is a 128-voice, GM- and XG-compatible Waveboard offering more than 500 top-drawer sounds. Further modules are in the works. Users can employ other vendors' compatible Wavetable cards, making the AREA 61 a remarkably extendible instrument.
The integrated sound generator's analog output signal goes to the output mixer and may be auditioned with the 2.0 audio system's playback signal as well as over the input monitor. Recording the output signal via USB 2.0 is also an option. The AREA 61 Controller Keyboard will be available in stores in Q 3/ 2006 retailing for 749.00 USD (MSRP)."
SUPERBUTH at the Musikmesse
Title link takes you there. This is the equivalent of the Analogue Haven booth at NAMM. Can't tell if it's actually live or not, but there is some webcam action going on.
Ambient 24 Video - Zengomi
Roland JP8000 and Korg Z1 drones. Zengomi posted the video on the-gas-station. Title link takes you to a 10M WMV. There is a 60M version in the post."In part, the JP8080 is making 'the cycling higher pitched drone followed by the sander sounding piece', which is triggered by channel aftertouch. The JP only is fed to a lexicon MPX500. The Z1 makes what sounds to me like a cello. "
Roland SH-101 Samples and Filter CV Mod
Title link takes you there. Sent my way via Ed of dmxkrew.
"One thing the SH-101 is missing is a CV input to control the filter. I scoured the internet and found several mentions of modifications you can do to add a filter-CV input, but they all involve doing some fairly brutal stuff to your 101. I kept looking at the socket where the modulation grip plugs in. It says "modulation." I thought there must be a way to use it to control the filter, and there is. After experimenting with a kids' electronics kit, I made the little box pictured above. Using this box as an interface you can control the filter cutoff frequency or the oscillator pitch with an external CV. You can even plug in an audio signal and do filter FM or oscillator FM. If you use an external envelope and trigger it only on certain notes, you can acheive and "accent" sound similar to the TB-303 and make some very cool acid lines."
"One thing the SH-101 is missing is a CV input to control the filter. I scoured the internet and found several mentions of modifications you can do to add a filter-CV input, but they all involve doing some fairly brutal stuff to your 101. I kept looking at the socket where the modulation grip plugs in. It says "modulation." I thought there must be a way to use it to control the filter, and there is. After experimenting with a kids' electronics kit, I made the little box pictured above. Using this box as an interface you can control the filter cutoff frequency or the oscillator pitch with an external CV. You can even plug in an audio signal and do filter FM or oscillator FM. If you use an external envelope and trigger it only on certain notes, you can acheive and "accent" sound similar to the TB-303 and make some very cool acid lines."
The Little Jointer
Thought this was pretty funny. That's one hell of a roach clip.
Came in via Per Mattson on AH. Also check out these definitions.
Update via synthbaron in the comments:
"That's a wood planer, not a roach clip. LOL.
http://www.sawdustmaking.com/Hand%20Planes/hand_planes.htm"
Doh! Oh well, two funnies in one post. : )
Came in via Per Mattson on AH. Also check out these definitions.
Update via synthbaron in the comments:
"That's a wood planer, not a roach clip. LOL.
http://www.sawdustmaking.com/Hand%20Planes/hand_planes.htm"
Doh! Oh well, two funnies in one post. : )
TerraTec KOMPLEXER VST
Title link takes you to more. Update via Duvalle in the comments:
"Great news! I was waiting for the KOMPLEXER because it can import Waldorf Micro Q soundsets. I found this audio clip comparing the KOMPLEXER VST and the Micro Q. First one playing is the Micro Q."
http://s45.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=0BN4JVRY65JNL2G23UJEO9MUAI
Key features & special attributes
* Virtual analog software synthesizer
* Wavetable synthesis
* Imports Waldorf microQ® sounds
* Eight macro controllers
* Up to 256 voices
* Unrestricted access to the sound synthesis engine
* Three oscillators featuring sync and ring modulation
* Two multimode filters (8 types including comb filters)
* Flexible modulation matrix
* Four ADSDSR envelopes
* Audio input with vocoder
* Three LFOs (LFO3 with user waveform)
* Arpeggiator
* 16x16 modulation matrix
* Five effect units offering delay, reverb, chorus, phaser, distortion
* Fully automatable and controllable via MIDI controller
* VST plug-in for Windows 2000, Windows X
* Standalone Mode for use without VST – Host
BTW, apologies for the lack of Messe coverage, but there honestly isn't much new when it comes to synths this year. I've covered most items in previous posts already. If you beleive I've missed anything, please feel free to post a comment and I'll put it up.
"Great news! I was waiting for the KOMPLEXER because it can import Waldorf Micro Q soundsets. I found this audio clip comparing the KOMPLEXER VST and the Micro Q. First one playing is the Micro Q."
http://s45.yousendit.com/d.aspx?id=0BN4JVRY65JNL2G23UJEO9MUAI
Key features & special attributes
* Virtual analog software synthesizer
* Wavetable synthesis
* Imports Waldorf microQ® sounds
* Eight macro controllers
* Up to 256 voices
* Unrestricted access to the sound synthesis engine
* Three oscillators featuring sync and ring modulation
* Two multimode filters (8 types including comb filters)
* Flexible modulation matrix
* Four ADSDSR envelopes
* Audio input with vocoder
* Three LFOs (LFO3 with user waveform)
* Arpeggiator
* 16x16 modulation matrix
* Five effect units offering delay, reverb, chorus, phaser, distortion
* Fully automatable and controllable via MIDI controller
* VST plug-in for Windows 2000, Windows X
* Standalone Mode for use without VST – Host
BTW, apologies for the lack of Messe coverage, but there honestly isn't much new when it comes to synths this year. I've covered most items in previous posts already. If you beleive I've missed anything, please feel free to post a comment and I'll put it up.
Voyetra 8 Shots
Title link takes you to a load of shots on retrosynth. The Voyetra 8 is considered to be an 8 voice polyphonic Octave CAT. Update via mono-poly in the comments: "An 8 voice Octave Cat SRM2. These don't sound like the first ones."
Wednesday, March 29, 2006
Moogulator on the Musikmesse
Title link takes you to Moogulators coverage on the Musikmesse.Don't miss the link in the post to more.
Cut Copy Synth Pop
Title link takes you to the Cut Copy website. Somone (dw66) sent me a couple of tracks to check out by them. They are on Yahoo! Unlimitted, so I'm listening and downloading their album now. They sound a bit like Wire, if you know who that is. Really good synth pop. Nice shot of the Odyssey. Also check out the stack of classic rhythm machines in theer photos.
American Contemporary
Ryan Faubion sent this little gem my way. This is an album composed solely with an EMS Synthi 100. Title link takes you to the post with more info. Seek and yee shall be rewarded. Enjoy. Thanks Ryan!
Ceephax Acid Crew - Video
Via James Anderson. Title link takes you there.
Audio is pretty distorted, but good show regardless.
Audio is pretty distorted, but good show regardless.
Birth of a Synth
Title link takes you there. There's a ton of samples and more on site. Via this post on electro-music.com. Check out the schematics for the Klee Sequencer in the post as well.
Tuesday, March 28, 2006
New Moog Shots Are Up
Title link takes you there. Say hello to the Little Phatty.
Update via Carbon111 in the comments: http://carbon111.com/moog_lp.html.
Update via Carbon111 in the comments: http://carbon111.com/moog_lp.html.
New Tracks on Gnostic Rocket
via Gnostic Rocket
Tracks include the Casio CZ1000, Springboard Dub, Korg Electribe ER1, and the Korg X911 Guitar Synth's low pass filter (same filter as the Korg MS-20). Title link takes you there.
Future Retro Revolution - Signature Edition
Via Synthtopia. Title link takes you to the post.
"Two versions are available: 9 UV orange units. which are available exclusively in the UK through Analogue Addiction, and 10 silver metalic units which are available exclusively in the USA through Nova Musik."
"Two versions are available: 9 UV orange units. which are available exclusively in the UK through Analogue Addiction, and 10 silver metalic units which are available exclusively in the USA through Nova Musik."
Vyzor Editor for the Evolver
Brian Comnes sent me a link to Psicraft's Vyzor Editor for the Evolver. I'm familiar with the Sound Tower editor, but not this.
According to Brian, "Having a visual view of the EVO signal flow, especially for desk and rack versions is really great and the sequencer editor and wave shape editor only make it better. FWIW the Evo is a tough learning curve and this soft editor really helps you get your head around what is going on."
Click here for more info. Don't miss the details page.
She Enters My Mind - Scott Metzger
Title link takes you to a 13.8M MP3 titled She Enters My Mind. The track is by Scott Metzger and it features the Yamaha CS80, Nord lead 3, and Prophet VS, sequenced, and mixed in Logic Pro. Right click and save the title link to download it. "The first 2 synths that come in are Nord Lead 3. The LFOie sound.. Then the bass pads is the Nord lead 3 as well.. The icicle leads are the CS80 and the piano is done in Logic Pro using the EXS24 which is a multi sampled collection of piano. And the little notes between piano is the Prophet VS." Nice track. This is a great example of how three completely different synths in both time period and technology can work together (CS80 Analog 1970s, Prophet V Wavetable 1980s, and Nord Lead 3 VA 2000s). Thanks Scott!
AHMW 2006 Shots Part 3
Title link takes you to shots in from Andrew Scheidler. Click on AHMW 2006 when you get there.
Orange Circuit Casio Bent SK1
Orange Circuit Casio Bent SK1
Monday, March 27, 2006
Creamware Pro Odyssey AFB
Wow. Title link takes you to more info on Sequencer.de.
Via this post on Moogulator:
"this is new for Musikmesse 2006 - Emulation of the ARP Odyssey (II, the black one with golden lettering - the 24 dB/Oct. Filter modell - so they chose the best sounding model), all ASB (authentic sound box) series synths are usb controlled (software). but it also works standalone. alternatively minimax (minimoog) filter mode and 12 voices. more see tech. the pic was given to me exclusively as the first pic internationally available (thanks for the pic).. so sooner or later other sites might put it up, too.."
You better beleive it. : ) Nice one Moogulator!
Via this post on Moogulator:
"this is new for Musikmesse 2006 - Emulation of the ARP Odyssey (II, the black one with golden lettering - the 24 dB/Oct. Filter modell - so they chose the best sounding model), all ASB (authentic sound box) series synths are usb controlled (software). but it also works standalone. alternatively minimax (minimoog) filter mode and 12 voices. more see tech. the pic was given to me exclusively as the first pic internationally available (thanks for the pic).. so sooner or later other sites might put it up, too.."
You better beleive it. : ) Nice one Moogulator!
AHMW 2006 Shots Part 2
Title link takes you to AHMW 2006 shots by the Suit & Tie Guy. Some notes via the comments: "... though it's more of a social travelogue from my own perspective than a fair documentation of the technical end of the event.i'm sure all of you are interested in pictures of where we ate, what liquor we drank, what our room looked like, what harry bissell looks like without his hat, who is buried in the parking lot of the angola meijer, etc. there's even pictures of a great motel to get murdered at, where to buy espresso in angola, and an historic african-american lakeside resort. the first and last couple of photos are in IL, oglesby and utica respectively."
Thanks Suit & Tie Guy! I think. ; )
Oscillator Sync Viewed through an Oscilloscope
Moogulator put up a post on a some oscillator syncs viewed through an oscilloscope posted on the Synthesizers.com wiki. In the shots the top waveform is the oscillator synced to the bottom waveform. In the image above, you can clearly see how the top waveform starts in sync with the bottom. The other shots on the site give a number of other examples including the "bare claw" : ) Title link takes you there.
Update via the comments:
"The picture you chose is the only one that dosen't show sync at all unless you read the caption. The top wave is a triangle being restarted by the square below it. Notice how it looks like a saw wave? Thats why sync sounds different. Your restarting one wave regardless of where it is in its cycle."
Well there you have it. : )
How to Use an Oscilloscope 2
Interesting. I think I just caught a duplicate post on the Make: blog. I just saw this post on how to use an oscilloscope. I thought it looked familiar, and sure enough it was already posted here. I know because I put up a post on it back on 11/28/05. All go here. I wasn't going to put this up but I figured it's a good reference for my next post coming up, so...
Minimoog Lapel Pin
Mover over digital. Lee Tizzard saw my previous post on the Yamaha DX7 and Roland D50 Synth Bling. He sent in the following shot of his Minimoog Lapel Pin. "Bought it at a local music store about 12 years ago for $15 CDN........I've yet to wear it." Nice. And Vintage. Thanks Lee!
Argiriadis Analogue Electronics
Title takes you the Argiriadis Analogue Electronics website. There is a link to this video on YouTube on vacuum tubes. It's an amazing video in which Theo Argiriadis goes into detail on the desing and characterstics of the sound. Synth content in the video includes some rhythms and sequences running through the vacuum tube. Great video. Found this one on Digital Music Mag.
Notes on the video:
"Theo's an electronics engineer, working in North London and specialising in valves (vacuum tubes). He makes and modifies quality hi-fi, and unique, stunning audio processors. His workshop's amazing too, so after he built me the most detailed distortion box I've ever seen, I asked if I could make a film about him and his work. Contact Theo through www.tube-electronics.co.uk, or me at film@museumoftechno.org"
Update via the comments:
"Hey, thanks for featuring the film! And for using that primo still as the preview... the pale box with the red controls at top right is my distort unit, which is how I got to know Theo.
If any UK MatrixSynth readers are seriously into their valves, and want a totally different and valuable experience buying a piece of beautiful equipment, do have a think about Theo - he says he's not an artist, but there's some deep Macedonian voodoo mixed up with his science!"
Thank you! That truly was an awesome video.
Notes on the video:
"Theo's an electronics engineer, working in North London and specialising in valves (vacuum tubes). He makes and modifies quality hi-fi, and unique, stunning audio processors. His workshop's amazing too, so after he built me the most detailed distortion box I've ever seen, I asked if I could make a film about him and his work. Contact Theo through www.tube-electronics.co.uk, or me at film@museumoftechno.org"
Update via the comments:
"Hey, thanks for featuring the film! And for using that primo still as the preview... the pale box with the red controls at top right is my distort unit, which is how I got to know Theo.
If any UK MatrixSynth readers are seriously into their valves, and want a totally different and valuable experience buying a piece of beautiful equipment, do have a think about Theo - he says he's not an artist, but there's some deep Macedonian voodoo mixed up with his science!"
Thank you! That truly was an awesome video.
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MATRIXSYNTH - EVERYTHING SYNTH
© Matrixsynth - All posts are presented here for informative, historical and educative purposes as applicable within fair use.
MATRIXSYNTH is supported by affiliate links that use cookies to track clickthroughs and sales. See the privacy policy for details.
MATRIXSYNTH - EVERYTHING SYNTH
