Jomox SunSyn version 2.02 Analog Synthesizer

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via this auction

"Perfect working condition. The latest and best version 2.02

From the Jomox website:

'Jomox introduces their first major analog real-time synthesizer. It's a true analog with 8 voices housed in a classic looking desktop-style case with wood end-cheeks, 40 knobs, 42 buttons and 85 LED's! It's also rack-mountable if you prefer.

The SunSyn features 2 analog oscillators (VCO's) per voice. The waveforms include sawtooth, square and pulse with pulsewidth-modulation. But in addition to these are the new Ramp Controlled Oscillators (RCO's). The RCOs follow the VCO characteristics like modulation, sync, tuning and frequency alterations. The RCO's use digital sounds which come from 4 wavesets, each with 256 waveforms each. In effect, these digital sounds get an analog treatment for nicer, warmer and fatter tones.
There are 4 RCO's per voice and wavesets can be added via PCMCIA-card.

The filter section is also a true analog design but with very modern features. It is a 4-pole filter but fully configurable with independent high pass and low pass features available. Create filters that range from the sounds of a Minimoog, to the squelchy 303. Filter settings can be stored in one of two scene memories and real-time Morphing between scenes can be accomplished.

As for modulation, JoMoX has devised a clever Routing System for the SunSyn, turning it into an 8-voice modular! It is used to virtually patch between various modules or parameters. There are up to 4 Routing Elements per voice with 4,096 possible combinations per Routing Element. Modulation paths are configured using the front panel display screens. This modular approach to signal routing is a feature usually found only on the huge, expensive classic Modular synths by ARP, E-mu, Moog and Buchla. Unlike those, however, the SunSyn features complete patch memory (350 patches and 150 multi-patches) and multitimbral MIDI implementation. Most parameters can be controlled by MIDI, and controller/editor templates for most sequencers will be, or already are available. As for output, there are stereo outs, 8 freely routable individual outs and a stereo input to run external audio through the Routing system.'"

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Korq Z1 SN 006278

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via this auction

"This synthesizer uses the same multi-oscillator synthesis system (MOSS) tone generator found in the Korg Prophecy which is the reason it is touted as a polyphonic Prophecy. It implements 13 synthesis types, all derived from the original OASYS synthesizer."

Note the original OASYS was never released as a stand alone synth. The Z1, released in 1997, used the technology from it. The OASYS PCI card for the PC (see wikipedia on it here), was released in 1999.

I actually own a Z1 and a Prophecy, and always thought the sound of the Z1 was a bit "dampened" for lack of a better word. It was as if you couldn't quite get the filter to open up all the way - it lacked that extra level of clarity and oomph. I once spoke to someone involved with the development of the Z1, and was told that the DSP chips were underpowered for the engine, and they ran out of time needed to optimize the software to compensate for that. My memory is a little fuzzy though; this was a long time ago. Regarding the Z1 being a poly Prophecy, that is correct only to an extent. They use the same source engine, but the parameters on the two actually differ. One of my favorite patches on the Prophecy is "Prophetic Step". I was curious how it would sound polyphonic, so one day I decided to try an mirror the parameters on the Z1. I discovered that the were not the same, and never managed to program the patch on the Z1. I hate to say it but the Prophecy in general, also slightly sounded better to my ears. The Z1 is still a great synth and offers parameters and physical models not available on other synths, aside from the mono Prophecy of course.

The OASYS synth we all know now followed much later in 2005. Wikipedia has an article on it here. As always use the info on Wikipedia as general information and not fact. They still have the Buchla dates wrong. You can find the corrected dates here.

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Buchla Easel - Krell patch figure 21

Published on Nov 9, 2015 DJjondent

"The Music Easel is set on 'both' mode - reading from the card but still allowing input via keyboard etc. So quite a tweakable little patch."

Buchla Easel K tip

Published on Oct 4, 2015 Todd Barton

"Since the 223e module can store only one patch(1) I realized that you could actually store 4 different Radio Output Kinesthetic pad configurations. Of course, you would need to re-patch from one Radio Output section to the other but it is possible. You would also need to remember any 208 setting that might change.

Let’s look at this(2):

I’ve programmed Radio 6 for Arpeggiation on A-E and a little modal scale on L-Q.
The L-Q pads are sending Pressure to control Timbre. V pad controls the speed of the Arpeggiator.

Next I’ve programmed Radio 7 for pads U-Y with Location controlling Modulation.

I still have two more Radio outs that I could program but have not yet taken the time.

Here’s a very rough video demo:

(1) once you’ve found the patch you want to keep, press the Remote button, thus turning off the red l.e.d—it will be saved on powering down.\

(2) I don’t have an official Easel K but have hooked up my 223e to my Easel’s 218 which give the exact same results."

Buchla Easel K tip 2

Published on Oct 5, 2015 Todd Barton

"Using the 218’s Pulser to clock for the 218 Sequencer and the 223e Arpeggiator you can have 2 synchronized variable step/pitch combinations: 3-5 steps with the 218 and from 1-23 steps with the 223e. Also, the 223e offers many pattern modes: Rising, Falling, Triangle, Random and Spiral."

Buchla Easel K tip 3

Published on Oct 5, 2015

"In contrast to Tip 2, this tip uses the 223e Arpeggiator to clock the 218 Pulser. For a close up photo of the card used here go to:
https://www.hightail.com/download/bXB..."

Todd Barton with Buchla Easel AUX Expander and Easel iProgram Card at NAMM

"The Aux Card offers a noise source that can be variably filtered from full-spectrum White noise down to sub-audio 'Infra-Red' CVs. The auxiliary control oscillator allows the Modulation Oscillator to assume audio duties and can be used as the modulation source for a variety of uses. It can even be modulated itself. An A-440 reference allows quick tuning of your Easel with the flick of a switch."

"The Buchla Music Easel iProgram card is the ultimate accessory to modernize your Music Easel–a flexible replacement for the original resistor-based Program Cards. It makes use of the Program Card slot and enables patch editing, patch/librarian management, and even real-time performance from an iPad via the iProgram Card App. The iProgram Card communicates with the iPad via WiFi*. The iProgram card can store up to 24 presets in local flash memory so that it can be used independently from the iPad application. Two push buttons allow the user to scroll through and load any stored preset."

MATRIXSYNTH T-Shirt not included. :)

I missed going to NAMM this year, but it looks like Todd made sure MATRIXSYNTH was represented! Thank you Todd!

Buchla Music Easel Suitcase Modular Synthesizer

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via this auction

"Manufacturer Description:
This legendary and sought-after Buchla synthesizer from the 200 series will be produced again after 40 years. There are some minor changes here and there but in general it´s pretty much the same as the original. No MIDI inside but you get a really well-thought out semi-modular instrument with great sound and lots of possibilities due to well-arranged patch points. The small sequencer and the touch keyboard with integrated arpeggiatior invite to play the instrument directly and to interact with it.

Technical Details

At the first glance the Easel looks confusing because of the too many switches, faders and many sockests without legending but in the end everything makes sense and it's laid out very logically. The colors of sockets mostly match the function blocks of the Easel (purple = keyboard pressure, yellow = pulser, white = random, orange = envelope, blue = sequencer). The black sockets are CV inputs that are located always left of the according parameter. The sockets at the top of the unit have legending and are self-explaining. The position of most banana sockets below the faders has been chosen for the use of shorting bridges instead of patch cords which enhances clarity of your patch.

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BEMI BUCHLA MUSIC EASEL + iProgram card

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via this auction

"In original packaging with banana cables,jumpers,power supply and the iProgram-card that work with a iPad app to control the synth via wifi and save patch!!!! International bidders are welcome."

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Easel Both Mode Programming

Published on Oct 8, 2014 Todd Barton

"Here’s a little thought on programming the iProgram Card iPad App while the physical Easel’s Control switch is in “both” mode. Though I am a composer and definitely do not understand the circuitry of either the iCard or Easel that has not stopped me from exploring ways to make “both” mode useable, flexible and expressive. toddbarton.com"

Side note: Todd Barton will be performing with the Buchla Music Easel along with three others in Quadraphonic: Easels in Space Nov. 7 at Schneider Museum of Art.

Some info on the patch via Todd on Muff's:

"Here’s a little thought on programming the iProgram Card iPad App while the physical Easel’s Control switch is in “both” mode. Though I am a composer and definitely do not understand the circuitry of either the iCard or Easel that has not stopped me from exploring ways to make “both” mode useable, flexible and expressive.

I beginning with the most basic patch, i.e. the Basic Setup that comes with the app:



What I discovered is in order to have more options in “both” mode I need to change a few parameters in the app patch, namely taking the Mod Osc to “low” and the Mod switch to f.m.

This is a pretty good rule of thumb – for more options keep the switches and sliders in the app patch in their lowest position. Of course you’ll have to tailor this statement to your aesthetic.

Here are my changes to the above Basic Setup for use in “both” mode:



"I’m guessing the reverse process it possible, that is, taking a complex app patch and simplifying it in “both” mode – exploring what shorting bars, cables, slider positions and switches give you a useful “both” patch and “remote” patch. More on that another day. cheers! Todd"

Spatial and Sonic Gestures Using the Buchla Music Easel iProgram Card

via Todd Barton: "I'm really stoked about this new use of the iCard in tandem with the 206e/227e to bounce different sounds around in space!

Here’s my little study in Spatial & Sonic Gestures using the Buchla Music Easel/iProgram Card and Skylab with the 227e System Interface.

By programming the 227e with the 206e Preset Manager I was able to create separate patches for separate speakers in a quadraphonic array. Using the Last and Next buttons on the to 206e I can scroll through various speaker configurations.

I created 6 patches and saved them to the iProgram Card. Using the Down and Up buttons the iProgram Card instantly scrolls through these patches. By simultaneously pressing the buttons on both the 206e and iCard I can precisely control speaker placement and swirl speed. Or I can create a wide variety of patch changes and speaker changes.

The recording is from the headphone output of the 227e and thus captures all four speakers. My wish was to be able to do an actual 'concrete' style piece in real time. So . . . this is in real time with just an Easel/iCard and a Skylab with a 259e/281e/292e. The effect for the majority of the piece are the Easel’s spring reverb. Near the end I kick in an Eventide Space pedal."

Todd Barton Night in the Cyber Forest & Upcoming Concert Series

"self-generating Buchla Easel patch with special original program card patching. . ."

And a note from Todd on his upcoming concert series with Bruce Bayard:

"Dear Friends,

I'm really excited to announce this upcoming concert series. Bruce Bayard and I have been exploring quadraphonic sound and are really eager to share our sonic explorations with you! Here is more information:

Quadraphonic: Space as Metaphor

Beginning Friday, August 1, Bruce Bayard and I will be performing as the duet Control Voltage Therapy, presenting a series of concerts every First Friday at the Schneider Museum of Art. Featuring two Buchla Easel electronic music instruments, and a quadraphonic sound system, we'll be exploring “Space as Metaphor.” The concerts are every First Friday, August through December beginning at 11am. Some months will have special guests to be announced. The performances are free and open to the public. Performances begin at 11 a.m.

The Schneider Museum of Art is located on the Southern Oregon University campus.
1250 Siskiyou Blvd Ashland, OR 97520
(corner of Siskiyou and Indiana)

for Control Voltage Therapy audio tracks

see also Bruce's site: http://brucebayard.com/

All best wishes,

Todd"

Easel Krell Variations

"a brief self-generating Easel patch sent through the Buchla 227e. an exploration in varied timbres and panning speeds. . ."



"more of the same only a slight technical change in the program card :-) Oh, and it begins "dry" and I slowly add in the Easel spring reverb beginning around :18"

MATRIXSYNTH NAMM 2014: Buchla Booth Pics

This was definitely one of the biggest surprises for me this year at NAMM. The largest problem with any hardware modular system is the inability to save patches. Once you create something, you have to give it up to the ether to move onto the next patch.  The Buchla 200e introduced the ability to store knob settings, but not patched cable points. The card you see pictured on the Music Easel allows you to save both knob settings and patch points. It stores 10 presets. You can then create and save as many patches as you like on a dedicated iPad app and then load any patch you want to the card over wireless. You can watch a video overview by Todd Barton in this post. The technology, minus the software of course, existed with the original Music Easel back in 1973, but then you had to literally solder the patch settings in a card. You can see one of the cards pictured here has "Figure 21 Variation" written on it. That's actually a Buchla patch by Allen Strange who wrote the manual for the original Buchla Music Easel as well as Electronic Music: Systems, Techniques, and Controls.

Ancient Krell Program Card

Published on Oct 31, 2013

"Just soldered up this little program card for the Buchla Music Easel. For more on the Easel go to: buchla.com"

Not specifically a Halloween patch, but it's orange and there's some spooky sounds in there, so I'm giving it the label. See the Halloween channel link below for more. I'll add a link to the channel in the site links section directly above all posts as well.

Buchla Skylab Modular Synthesizer Analog / Digital Synth

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"System #4 - Buchla Skylab w/ Skylab Blue Soft Case USB Firmware Card and patch cords...

1 Model 201e-3 Passive Frame1 Model 201e-10 Powered Cabinet1 Model 207e Mixer / Mike Preamp1 Model 223e Tactile Input Port (4 panel units)1 Model 225e Midi Decoder/Preset Manager 1 Model 251e Quad Sequential Voltage Source 1 Model 259e Twisted Waveform Generator1 Model 261e Complex Waveform Generator1 Model 267e Uncertainty Source/Dual Filter1 Model 281e Quad Function Generator 1 Model 285e Freq Shifter / Balanced Modulator 1 Model 292e Quad Dynamics Manager Total Panel units - 13"

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Buchla Skylab Modular Synthesizer for Auction

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via this auction

"System #4 - Buchla Skylab w/ Skylab Blue Soft Case
USB Firmware Card and a NEW set of Control Voltage Patch Cords (still in the package!)


1 Model 201e-3 Passive Frame
1 Model 201e-10 Powered Cabinet
1 Model 207e Mixer / Mike Preamp
1 Model 223e Tactile Input Port (4 panel units)
1 Model 225e Midi Decoder/Preset Manager
1 Model 251e Quad Sequential Voltage Source
1 Model 259e Twisted Waveform Generator
1 Model 261e Complex Waveform Generator
1 Model 267e Uncertainty Source/Dual Filter
1 Model 281e Quad Function Generator
1 Model 285e Freq Shifter / Balanced Modulator
1 Model 292e Quad Dynamics Manager

Total Panel units - 13"

The PPG 1003 "Sonic Carrier" - World's First Programmable Synth?

via Wolfgang Palm on Facebook
Be sure to see the video below.

"This was the first programmable synthesizer (1977)."

Programmable as in patch memory. The 1003 was a programmable monophonic synth with two oscillators, digitally controlled keyboard, and it was duophonic.

But was it the first?

Excerpts via Part 4 of the PPG Story:

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Buchla Easel Card

flickr by PatchArena
(click for more)

full size

"This is used to store presets..."

Bottom shot for perspective. Note the small patch point connectors.

Update: Chad made an interesting point in the comments. "You can also brush your finger across the board while playing for cool little blips of sound as new connections are made between your finger and the board. :)"

Circuit bending a Buchla? A bit blasphemous but this would be one way to do it.

Update: if you haven't already, be sure to see these two videos of Charles Cohen for this technique [thanks to Wavedeform for the reminder in the comments]:
CHARLES COHEN AT THE BUCHLA MUSIC EASEL
Charles Cohen Vs. Chrome Genie - 1/3/09 - Philadelphia

Update via Christian in the comments: "charles told me that alex, the guy who filmed the video asked if such a thing was possiable. charles had a blank card, whetted his fingers and voila. it had never occored to him before. charles uses both this technique and programed cards during performances: such as the one him and i will be giving on 3/4 at the rotunda (in phila). i'm playing the big buchla :)"

Jomox Sunsyn

images via this auction

"SERIAL No. 0060
Jomox introduces their first major analog real-time synthesizer. It's a true analog with 8 voices (4- and 6-voice versions available) housed in a classic looking desktop-style case with wood end-cheeks, 40 knobs, 42 buttons and 85 LED's! It's also rack-mountable if you prefer.

The SunSyn features 2 analog oscillators (VCO's) per voice. The waveforms include sawtooth, square and pulse with pulsewidth-modulation. But in addition to these are the new Ramp Controlled Oscillators (RCO's). The RCOs follow the VCO characteristics like modulation, sync, tuning and frequency alterations. The RCO's use digital sounds which come from 4 wavesets, each with 256 waveforms each. In effect, these digital sounds get an analog treatment for nicer, warmer and fatter tones. There are 4 RCO's per voice and wavesets can be added via PCMCIA-card.

The filter section is also a true analog design but with very modern features. It is a 4-pole filter but fully configurable with independent high pass and low pass features available. Create filters that range from the sounds of a Minimoog, to the squelchy 303. Filter settings can be stored in one of two scene memories and real-time Morphing between scenes can be accomplished.

As for modulation, JoMoX has devised a clever Routing System for the SunSyn, turning it into an 8-voice modular! It is used to virtually patch between various modules or parameters. There are up to 4 Routing Elements per voice with 4,096 possible combinations per Routing Element. Modulation paths are configured using the front panel display screens. This modular approach to signal routing is a feature usually found only on the huge, expensive classic Modular synths by ARP, E-mu, Moog and Buchla. Unlike those, however, the SunSyn features complete patch memory (350 patches and 150 multi-patches) and multitimbral MIDI implementation. Most parameters can be controlled by MIDI, and controller/editor templates for most sequencers will be, or already are available. As for output, there are stereo outs, 8 freely routable individual outs and a stereo input to run external audio through the Routing system.

The new SunSyn is a true analog synth built for the wealthy synthesists of today. For total analog control and sounds, check out the SunSyn, especially if you can afford it!

Specifications:
Polyphony - 8 voices (4- and 6- voice models available too)
Oscillators - 2 VCOs per voice; waveforms: saw, square, pulsewidth. 2 RCOs per voice (digital waveforms that follow the analog oscillators)
LFO - 2 per voice; triangle, sawtooth up/down, rectangle and random waveforms
Filter - 4-pole with HP/LP switching for each pole; analog morphing between two filter setups.
Effects - None
Keyboard - None
Memory - 350 Single / 150 Multi / 4 wavesets; 1 PCMCIA card slot for waves and sounds
Control - MIDI
Date Produced - 2000"