Saturday, November 10, 2007
playing the Polysix
YouTube via lesingemonotone (click for more). via Nusonica.
"Playing the 32 sounds I programmed on my newly restored Korg Polysix."
and..
Korg Polysix tweaking (previously posted)
Casio VL-80 Vintage Calculator Synth W/ Vibrato VL-1 VL Tone
YouTube via electricinsect1. via Nusonica.
"After the Casio VL-1, this is by far the best Keyboard/Calculator, hands down. Such a unique little creature. It actually has a real time sequencer for recording and playback. A built in vibrato and 2 full octaves. Fairly loud for its size. Just like any VL, it also has built in melodies, tempo up / down and one key / auto play functions. Very impresive and very rare. A must have for any Calculator or Casio collector. Or if your like me and have a sicknes for unique vintage gear, toys, or what my parents always called......CRAP!"
Also:
CASIO MT-400v & GE TOTE A TUNE Analog Synthesizer - Orgatron
"The TOTE A TUNE is a real unique and warm sounding toy. I recommend this to anyone who likes that FARFISA / VOX / ACETONE sound. Of course, Its a joke to really compare these to compact organs. But made in 1971, I dont think you will be dissapointed with its tone. Also, the CASIO or CASIOTONE MT-400v filter is no way comparable to MOOG, ARP, KORG, ROLAND, ect. but it is nice to have around as a something different. The filter and white noise will please you if you keep this in mind. Was also realesed as the GTR Orgatron. Same thing, Different color."
Welson Syntex, che suono!!!
YouTube via celestinocamicia. via Nusonica.
"Here is a demo (and a long one too) of a Welson Syntex (not to be confused with the Elka Synthex), Italian-made analog monosynth from 1977 that I bought yesterday in a junk shop in Viterbo, Italy, for 25 euros. What a sound! It can deliver some squelchy basses that give 303's a run for their money...and not only that! But, being it my first "real" (not VST-emulated :-)) analog synth, there's still a lot more things to discover. Enjoy!"
JUNO 60 + SH 101 + TR 606 + JSQ 60
YouTube via magevers.
"JUNO 60 arpeggio solo triggerd with the JSQ 60 and the TR 606. The JSQ 60 sequencer triggerd the juno and the TR 606, and the TR 606 triggerd the sequencer of the SH 101 and also the arpeggio clock of the juno"
Profondo rosso (Goblin)
YouTube via aemmezero. Ensoniq ESQ1 and Roland TR-505. What's going on with the ESQ1 display about 4:45 into it? Check out the S900 Steelphone in the background and do not miss these videos.
Pixilang - pixel oriented programming language
"Pixilang is a simple programming language for small graphics/sound applications. Created by Alex Zolotov (NightRadio) and Mik Razuvaev (Goglus) for non-programmers, demosceners and designers. Pixilang programs keeps in a TXT-files, so you can edit it in any text-editor. Pixilang interpreter works on different operation systems (Windows, Linux, PalmOS) and distibuting under GNU GPL license."
Main features:
* easy syntax and small amount of commands;
* universal containers (pixi) using for text/gfx storage;
* pixel graphics describing in a source TXT-files directly (using ASCII symbols);
* transparency (simple and with alpha-channel);
* simple commands for rotation and resize;
* no floating point math operations - only 32bit integers are using;
* playing music in MOD and XM formats (using PsyTexx engine);
* functions for sound synthesis;
* loading GIF (animated) and JPG file formats;
* realtime export to GIF;
via Alex:
"I'm author of the Pixilang - simple pixel-oriented programming language for graphics and sound applications. In the new release 1.2 i implemented new features for sound synthesis. It's simple, but good for some sound-experiments or lo-fi things."
click here for more info.
F_AM03 - Attenuverting Mixer
flickr by fonik2000 (click for more)full size 1
full size 2
www.modular.fonik.de
Modualr Synth DIY matthias[fonik]herrmann
Zyklus Mps MIDI Performance System (Sequencer) Manual
This is a follow up to this post where you can watch a video of the Zyklus MIDI Performance System.
dlmorley posted a link to a pdf of the manual on the Matrixsynth Forum. Click here to download it.
The Juno-106 Connection
Click here for The Juno-106 Connection, a website dedicated to the Roland Juno-106. You will find factory patches, the user manual, MIDI details and more. I found this in the comments of this auction I put up on MATRIXSYNTH-B.
Crumar Trilogy
via this auction"Crumar designed this to look like the Oberheim OB-X. It has two DCO oscilators and 7 assignable presets and one base preset which can't be changed internally. There are three base sound types which are tweakable: Organ, Synth and Strings. Each of these have an individual output, or you can plug into the center and get both. This lets you do some neat stereo effects.
This analog synth can acheive some really fat sounds, and can be tweaked by opening up the top panel to access recessed pots in the circuit board."
Electrocomp EML 400/401
images via this auction
"This is a very rare vintage synth/sequencer from the early 1970's. It is configured in a double cabinet; one side is an EML 400 Synthesizer, and the other side is an EML 401 Sequencer."
Friday, November 09, 2007
The ??????
"The ?????? (we don't know what to call it, ask Lyle Workman from Beck who had this custom designed to his specs) I think this guitar came from somewhere in space. We received the coveted KNOB AWARD for this guitar. It sports a Sustainac Sustainer and a built in Kaoss Pad FX with red to gold color shifting finish. We lost a bit of sanity on this project."via MJ Guitars under Custom Shop. via A.
Oberheim Xpander programming
YouTube via 123synthland.
"As vintage synth dealers, we get to play with a lot of fun toys, but you already know this... I love the Oberheim Xpander! Here's me programming a patch or 2 on the next Xpander we plan to sell. I started out with Oberheim's initialized patch. Though the Xpander isn't as tweak friendly as an analog synth with 1 fader for every parameter, it's still an amazing and deep tool that can be programmed pretty quickly once you're familiar with the layout. Enjoy, and email me anytime at minime123@onebox.com"
Midibox MB-6582 Basic Test 1
YouTube via karnlund. via Nusonica.
"This is probably the first video of a midibox MB-6582 project that contains 8 commodore 64 SID synthesis chips. Visit http://www.midibox.org/ for more information on open source, community built synthesizers, sequencers, and other midi projects."
Minimoog Display Case
images via this auction"Alright you Moog fraks, check this out! This is a display case designed and built specifically for the Minimoog. Show your Minimoog with pride in this display case. It has a plexiglass window, veneer covered wood panels, foam padding on the inside walls, a spot for a cooling fan, and some ventilation slats in the back. SWEET! There is one corner that is a little rough but it could be fixed very easily with
some glue or a tack. Local pickup in Los Angeles area only!"For the true collector in you, or as Nick who sent this to the AH list called it, it's the "Minimoog Bubble Boy." Seinfeld fans should get that one.
Apparently its an old "dot matrix printer noise isolation box."
Simmons SDSV with MFB SEQ-01
"If you own a Simmons SDSV drumbrain and asking yourself what to do with some of the free module slots (if any), here’s the idea how to fill it: Use a MFB SEQ-01 drum sequencer and create a stand-alone Simmons drum machine. This will be a really fun device!" click here for more info.
BTW, this is from the same site, quadratschulz, as the previous post. Be sure to check it out for more synth goodness.
Quadratschulz Korg SQ10 Extention
"This handcrafted device is intended to extend the capabilities of a vintage KORG SQ-10 without the need of opening or modifying this valuable device. The QUADRATSCHULZ SQ10 EXT provides loads of step switches (3 channels à 12 switches) and advancedsynchronization capabilities using the ROLAND Sync-24 format (sometimes also referred as DIN Sync). This device fits perfectly on top of the KORG SQ-10 so that the step switches of the SQ10 EXT are perfectly aligned to the CV potentiometers of the KORG SQ-10.
Using the Sync-24 format allows to sync a KORG SQ-10 to other vintage gear, e.g. the ROLAND TR-808. It’s also easy to synchronize with your MIDI equipment using a standard MIDI/Sync interface (e.g. from DOEPFER, KENTON, etc.)."
click here for more info and shots.
When One Yamaha CS80 is Not Enough
Image of Vangelis via Vangelis Movements.Update via Doug in the comments:
"Do they have his ass mic'ed up or something? Look closely at the largest frame... "
Nice catch. Good thing its not a cup.
The Ensoniq VFX - "Vintage Digital"
Carbon111 just put up an Ensoniq VFX Page. His pages are always informative filled with info and images, so do check it out."A recent discussion got me thinking about older synths that are overlooked, still very powerful and available dirt-cheap these days. The one that came first to my mind is the wonderful Ensoniq VFX released back in 1989. It was the synth that followed up their hugely popular ESQ-1 and SQ-80 models and had more "features" but has now faded to general obscurity. Its current disfavor probably stems from the fact that it was Ensoniq's first all-digital synth and the User Interface looks rather uninviting - a forgivable misconception as you will soon see.
...you could do things like sweep the flanger with an envelope or modulate delay time with an LFO, syncing FX to the rest of the synthesizer - this was an Ensoniq "trademark" feature that they continued in their subsequent synthesizers."
Also posted on SYNTHWIRE.
Polyphony Magazine
"The years from 1975-85 saw electronic music realize the promise of the previous decades as monophonic voltage controlled synthesizers evolved into the polyphonic, multi-timbral music workstations of today. The pages of Polyphony magazine documented this time of great change with innovative DIY and theory articles, interviews with the artists and engineers who helped shape the future and much more.There are a limited number of copies of less than 20 issues of Polyphony remaining, far too few to continue offering a complete set at a reduced price. This page will soon have the list of back issues that are still available and the complete list of all Polyphonys and their table of contents. Archive copies are available for photocopying either completely or by article."
Available via PAiA. Also check out Synapse.
Press Cafe
YouTube via stretta. Don't miss the cat at the end.
"A demostration of a quick monome 256 music application I wrote."
Also see this search for stretta. You can do this for others as well using the search box on the top left.
Sequencing And MIDI - how to.
YouTube via DimensionFourMusic. Sent my way via Aleksandar.
"A basic demonstration of MIDI and sequencer posibilities."
Where's me cape?
flickr by Six of One
full size
Korg Prophecy
Korg MS2000
? Anyone know what it is?
Update via Brian in the comments:
"That would be a Yamaha SY85 - gotta love sliders!!!!!"
Admin: Note on YouTube Videos
It looks like YouTube changed their embedded player behavior again. Playlists no longer show the number of videos in the little movie reel looking clips on the right of the player. It just goes from one video to the next. With that, be sure not to miss any with multiple videos like the genoQs set I put up earlier as well as the ARP Avatar set. If you missed the other videos in the sets thinking they were just a repeat of the first video, go check them out. The genoQs has three vids with the third being an instructional video of what happened in the second. It is a really good video that shows you a bit of the interface on the genoQs. The other Avatar vids showcase a wider range of sounds as well as the Roland Space Echo. All good stuff.
Analog Man Chorus Pedals
I try to stay clear of effects unless they are designed specifically with synths in mind, or they come highly recommended for use with synths. Synth80s posted a link to Analog Man Chorus Pedals with the following notes. I wanted to bookmark the site and his notes, so I asked him if I could put up a post. He gave me the OK.via Synth80s:
"I picked up an analog bi-chorus last year with the true stereo option and the 3-position DEEP toggle switch which changes the frequency spectrum of the chorus. I've found it to be very impressive on guitar, synth and (my favorite application) CP-70. It really nails the late '70s to early '80s chorus sounds I love (think Peter Gabriel's "Melting Face" album).
Officially, it's an Electro-Harmonix clone by design, but it was sufficiently Boss/Roland-ish for me to ditch my Boss CE-300. Like any analog chorus, it can get a bit noisy at extreme settings, but the payoff is in the quality of the sound. The DEEP toggle is really useful when you're trying to find just the right chorus for the source.
While I've never used a real Dimension D or CE-2, the UAD-1 plug-ins are also fantastic, unlike any other chorus plugs I've every used and better than the chorus sound on most outboard digital effects units I've ever used."
Update via WindowsLicker in the comments:
"I own several of his pedals and they are worth every penny. I'm in the process of getting this pedal and this is considered to be THE best chorus pedal you can get your hands on today. The design is based on the Electro Harmonix Small Clone but Analogman worked with the original EH Clone designer and was able to improve on the circuitry to come up with an even better pedal than the small clone.
For the same money of the Analogman chorus, i could pick up a vintage Boss CE-1 which is considered the holy grail of chorus pedals, but then there is always the issue of it failing because of its age.
Glad to see pedals included in MS for once!"
EML 400/401
images via this craigslist post. Another via Ben of mus-ok."EML 400/401 analog synth / 32 step sequencer. This synth is in virtually mint condition and recently serviced by Ed Miller."
Be sure to check these out full size.
EML 101
images via this craigslist post. Note this is for sale via Ben of mus-ok. Be sure to click the All Sizes link for the full size shots. You can click the image in this post for the full size as well.
Roland JX-8P and Juno-60
YouTube via Analogger.
"Two great Roland synths together. The midi note data is also being converted to a control voltage which modulates the Juno-60's filter. The hold button on the Juno sustains a drone chord."
Roland MKS-70 "Super JX" Analog Synthesizer
YouTube via retrosound72.
"some factory sounds from the Roland MKS-70 "Super JX" recorded with a small pocket camera"
MFB Synth Lite
YouTube via DjPuzzle73.
"MFB Synth Lite demonstration.
# two oscillators with range, tuning, and saw or square waveforms
# oscillator sync
# ring mod
# LFO with three waveforms and oscillators or filter as a destination
# glide with three settings
# four pole moog style filter with contour
# two ADS(R) envelope generators with selectable release (release time = decay time)
# MIDI in with velocity and mod wheel modulation routings
# external audio input"
Introducing The Harvestman Polivoks VCF
The mystery module (scroll) revealed.Now in-stock and ready for shipment from Analogue Haven.
"The Harvestman is proud to present the first widely available modular release of the Polivoks filter circuit. The filter is made via a collaboration with the synth's original designer, Vladimir Kuzmin, and Shawn Cleary of Analogue Haven. The filter circuit is identical to the original design and uses the exact same schematic as the Polivoks synthesizer as well as new old stock Soviet integrated circuits (KR140UD1208 and KR140UD608, not Western "equivalents"). A signal mixer and bipolar CV multiplier were added in order to use the filter within the modular realm but no other additions are present. This helps to preserve the unique and unstable sound character without compromising signal flow authenticity.
First sold in the USSR in 1982, the Polivoks was the first voltage-controlled Soviet synthesizer. Boasting an impressive set of features comparable to Western designs, the synthesizer was noted for its extremely aggressive sound, particularly within the filter. Easy to overload, unstable at high Q values, and self-oscillating with a dirty pulse.
Specifications:
Made in cooperation with Vladimir Kuzmin
Manual and voltage-controlled cutoff frequency
Manual control of resonance
Bipolar CV input multiplier
2-input signal mixer (easily overdrives filter)
Low- and bandpass outputs
Original Soviet integrated circuits - no capacitors used in the design!
Panel size: 10HP"
Click here for more info. via Scott Sebastian Jaeger of The Harvestman as well as bbob.
For more info on the legendary russian synthesizer, the Polivoks, see these posts (be sure to scroll).
E-Mus via VEMIA
More up for auction on VEMIA.E-Mu Drumulator
E-Mu Emulator II
E-Mu Emulator
E-Mu SP-12
Click here for the full set of posts featuring VEMIA items. Note that there or more items for auction on the VEMIA site. These are just some of the images sent my way via Peter Forrest.
Cygnet
YouTube via stretta.
"Cygnet is an extension of the original fourths application. First, it grew the ability to play different grid configurations, then I added a 4-tap delay, then I added an 8-track sequencer. I created this to realize a piece of music which I'm still working on. The max patch is far enough along to create a demonstration video, and share with the patch with the monome community. Hopefully at some point in the future, I'll be able to share a real music statement and not simply a bunch of noodling.
Additional information and the software can be downloaded at stretta.com"
Would be nice if it the monome had velocity sensitivity. ;)
MC-909 // Virus // Equipment test 2: Mindless Techno ;)
YouTube via siedgey.
"Evening all...here's another wee video I made today in a couple of hours. I managed to beat the last video's record of a 2 bar loop. Yup, this is 1 bar. It's created with 909 on drums, CS6x on sub bass, Virus on bleeps, bloops, bass stab and pad. Tweakalizer is used to fun things up a bit. No samples.
I also cock it all up royally in the middle somewhere, but it's only a test track so it doesn't matter to me. Thanks all for watching again. Hope you're not getting bored of these test vids - once I've got to grips with the Virus fully I'll start producing proper again!"
D-Lab Electronics Multi Plexer
images via this auction
Details:
"GETLOFI.Com
The Multi-Plexer will produce those famous sounds that you grew up hearing on Lost and Space, The Forbidden Planet, Star Trek and other Sci-Fi classics. The name was assigned, simply because that’s what it does. The circuit sends an analog signal around in a circle, bending and distorting it, like a ring modulator. However, the MP is a FREE RUNNING Synth. No input is required for it to operate. But if you input a signal (like your guitar) it will ride the MP self generated wave. The end product is a result of many manipulations. I cannot describe its sounds in words. Please listen to the links and judge for yourself.
Multi-Plexer.MP3
Multi-Plexer.MP3
Multi-Plexer.Wav
Circuit:The circuit is a basic pure Analog Synth (not noisy digital) with Depth, Sustain, Impact, Rate, Frequency and Volume adjustments. Only TOP Quality components were utilized. “Spared no expense” The circuit board was custom manufactured using a photo-etch system. It runs on 2- 9vdc batteries (included). Totally isolated circuit will not produce hum or ground loops on your Guitar amp or stereo as other plug in the wall synths do. This is a great gadget to add to your rock band as a creepy, self running, sound generator. It’s also a lot of fun to just play with on your home stereo. This device runs at a low frequency, therefore, it responds well to Bass guitars and keyboard inputs. It's initial design was intended for generation of neat sound effects. The input jack came later.
Check out the MP3 files that my friend in OK sent me (see links above). The original circuit was developed in the 1970’s. 30 of them have sold on the ebay so far. See my feedback for great comments on this device. This gadget is not available anywhere besides D-Lab. In other words, you will be getting a very unique item. My investment per unit is $70.00 (parts), excluding numerous hours of layout and construction time. The cost have elevated due to the cosmetic upgrades. I am doing my best to provide a top notch product. I realize that my gadget is small league compared to the big hitters (Moog, Paia & Korg). I just hope that you enjoy it. Bands around the country have been e-mailing me with great reports incorporating the Multi-Plexer's weird sound into their gigs. This device is great for Band Background weird noise or making your instrument act crazy!
This device is intended for fun or interface with your band equipment, not for development of a new Outer Limits episode. The cost is much less than store bought models and it is fully portable, unlike anything else on the market. Please e-mail me with questions or concerns before bidding. Unit comes with a nifty overview sheet for operating this crazy instrument."
Farfisa SoundMaker
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© 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
