TMP-2-04 Vintage Synth TV Series from Benge

video upload by Memetune Studio

00:00 Opening Titles
00:32 Introduction
01:22 Little Black Boxes
07:49 Switched On Cybersynths
14:55 Synthesiser Club
18:30 Commercial Break
21:52 Patching Today
35:05 Video Lab
40:34 Outro

////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

Episode four of the second series of the TV program from Benge, made at his Memetune Electronic Music Studio

The series explores his passion for vintage synthesiser instruments and studio gear and how he uses it on his productions and collaborations

////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

It is divided into the following sections:

LITTLE BLACK BOXES - A look at some classic rack mount synths of the 80s and 90s

SWITCHED ON - This second series looks at a type of synthesis based around the ideas of Cybernetics, which Benge calls CYBERSYNTHESIS

SYNTHESISER CLUB - A short musical demonstration of a synthesiser classic or three

COMMERCIAL BREAK - Some shameless Memetune shilling

PATCHING TODAY - A deep-dive into vintage modular systems and how to set up a patch on them, starting from scratch

VIDEO LAB - A look at old video equipment and how to create experimental visuals

////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

In THIS episode:

LITTLE BLACK BOXES - The Casio VZ10M Phase Distortion synth from 1988

SWITCHED ON CYBERSYNTHS - Euclidean Rhythms. We get the abacus out and do some maths in this episode, trying to work out Euclid’s infamous algorithm

SYNTHESISER CLUB - Today, its Club Yamaha!

COMMERCIAL BREAK - Benge’s latest album The View from Vega, released on the DiN label; FORMS SERIES albums on Bandcamp; Polyrythmic Electronica vinyl from the Systems of Objects label; Memetune merchandise - T-Shirts, Tote Bags and Badges

PATCHING TODAY - on the Paia 4700, made in Oklahoma City in 1974. Is this the WORST modular system ever made? Maybe, maybe not!

VIDEO LAB - In this episode - a look at vintage video cameras, and why the Three Tube system rules


////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

LINKS:

The View from Vega album: https://dinrecords.bandcamp.com/album...

Polyrythmic Electronica vinyl / Systems of Objects: https://systemofobjects.bandcamp.com/...

Benge's Studio Blog: http://myblogitsfullofstars.blogspot.com

Memetune Studio Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/memetunestu...

Benge FORMS / Memetune Merch on Bandcamp: https://zackdagoba.bandcamp.com


////////////////////////////////////////////////////////

The MemeTune Programme Credits:
Everything in this video was created by B D Edwards (Benge)
All music, design, writing, filming and production completed at Memetune Studios, UK, 2023

Bad Gear - Casio HT3000

video upload by AudioPilz

"Become a Patron and get access to music clips from the show, additional content, Bad Gear samples and even more AudioPilz madness

https://www.patreon.com/audiopilz

Welcome to Bad Gear, the show about the world's most hated audio tools. Today we are going to talk about the Casio HT3000. Is this 80s home keyboard with an analog filter the last affordable vintage synth. Will it replace your Moog or Prophet?

My dear friend and owner of the HT-3000, Matthias Jakisic is really busy at the moment:

- New Album
https://www.col-legno.com/de/shop/160...
- Theatre Stuff
https://www.muenchner-kammerspiele.de...
- New Book coming up (picture credits: Deborah Sengl)
https://www.bahoebooks.net/

Chapters:
00:00 Intro tune
01:02 Overview Casio HT-3000
01:17 Oscillator Section
01:35 Filter Section, Paraphony
01:49 Cutoff/Resonance Mod
02:15 User Interface, Menu Diving
02:36 Envelopes, LFO, Chorus
03:05 Patches, Sound Examples
03:30 Preset Example
03:42 Midi Range Limitation
03:47 Multitimbrality, Synth Engine No. 2, Splits
04:19 Bass, Drums
04:40 Accompaniment Section
04:59 Sequencer, Chord Generator, Song Mode
05:17 Memory (or lack thereof)
05:32 Connectivity, Speakers, Prices, Thanks!!!
05:56 Hate
06:21 Jam 1 (Nerd House)
07:17 Jam 2 (Nerd Drum'n'Bass)
08:14 Finale (Lofi Synthpop Chillwave)
08:46 Verdict

New Casio Watch Inspired by John Mayer's Childhood Keyboard

video upload by Hodinkee

"The G-SHOCK Ref. 6900-PT1 By John Mayer features a dusty matte blue case and strap, a more playful color combination that’s an excellent companion to the first two collaborations. Peach, coral, and turquoise from the PT-1 keyboard were brought in to highlight the 'Triple Graph' display, which sits right at home in the soft cream dial. Darker grey was pulled from the sharp and flat keys of the PT-1 keyboard and added to the illuminator button. All four indicators for the buttons share the navy color from the writing on the PT-1, a perfect accent on the lighter blue background. The G-Shock Ref. 6900-PT1 By John Mayer gives you both the toughness you expect from a G-SHOCK with a colorway that will make your inner creative child smile."

"Being musicians and music fans, we here at Reverb know John Mayer for his guitar-playing and his best-selling signature Silver Sky. But he's also deeply invested in a whole other type of gear: watches.

Mayer, the horologist, is as much a figure to fellow watch lovers as he is to Boss BD-2 enthusiasts, sitting down for multiple interviews about his extensive collection and even getting into the watch design game himself.

In recent years, he's collaborated with the premiere watch site Hodinkee and a brand that, like Mayer, straddles the world of music gear and watches: Casio.

The partnership's latest creation is the Casio G-Shock Ref. 6900-PT1, a digital watch inspired by the PT-1 Mini Synthesizer.

Casio first built the PT-1 synth in 1982 and continued production until 1988, meaning it was one of the many affordable synths and samplers the company released during Mayer's early childhood.

The toy-like PT-1 is a monosynth — meaning it can only play one note at a time—but it packs in more features than parents probably expected. While there are just four simple tones (piano, violin, flute, and the mysterious 'fantasy'), there's a built-in drum machine with the same spread of rhythms you'd find on an old Roland or Korg, and—pretty amazingly, especially to a kid—a sequencer.

To really seal the deal for 'home keyboard' playing, it can run on four double-AA batteries, has its own speaker, and a headphone output.

John Mayer's new G-Shock takes cues from his own childhood PT-1, with its blue enclosure, though you can also find the synth in white, pink, black, and red."

New Casio Casiotone CT-S1000V - First Look

video upload by Kraft Music

Update: new videos, pics, and details added below.

"Find exclusive Casiotone CT-S1000V BUNDLES at Kraft Music: https://www.kraftmusic.com/brands/cas...

Adam Berzowski gets a first look at the Casio CT-S1000V Portable Keyboard.

The Casio Casiotone CT-S1000V gives your music a brand new voice: Its own. In addition to hundreds of AiX-powered Tones and full accompaniment Rhythms, CT-S1000V features Vocal Synthesis technology that lets you play your lyrics in real time. Speak or type your lyrics into the free Lyric Creator app for iOS/Android, transfer them to the CT-S1000V, and play the keys to hear your words come alive. Other features include 61 full-size touch response keys, pitch bend wheel, assignable modulation/effects knobs, a powerful speaker system, audio sampler and 6-track MIDI recorder, and strap pins for playing anywhere. CT-S1000V also offers MIDI over USB and an included WU-BT01 Bluetooth MIDI/Audio adapter.

Get more for your money with an exclusive Casio Casiotone CT-S1000V portable keyboard bundle from Kraft Music. These package deals include the accessories you'll need to get the most out of your new keyboard, all for one low price. If you have any questions, please contact us. Our knowledgeable sales advisors will be happy to assist in choosing the bundle that's right for you!"

Update: two videos from Casio:


video upload by Casio Music UK

Casiotone CT-S1000V Introduction

video upload by Casio Music Gear

Additional details via Kraft Music

Since 1980, Casio's mission has been to help musicians find their voice. Now, Casiotone CT-S1000V gives your music a brand new voice: its own. Along with 800 stunning Tones and many other features, CT-S1000V features vocal synthesis technology that lets you play your lyrics in real time.

61 full-size touch response keys plus pitch bend wheel
Bright backlit LCD display with easy, intuitive interface
3 assignable knobs for controlling modulation, effects, filters and much more
800 AiX-powered Tones and 243 full accompaniment Rhythms
Vocal synthesis with personalized lyrics via the free Lyric Creator app for iOS/Android
Powerful, editable DSP effects
Powerful bass-reflex stereo speaker system with surround effect
Audio sampler and 6-track MIDI recorder
Strap pins for playing anywhere
1/4" line outputs to connect to mixers, PA systems, etc.
Class-compliant USB-MIDI connects to free Lyric Creator app
Includes WU-BT01 Bluetooth MIDI/Audio adapter
Optional 6×AA battery power

Innovative vocal synthesis
Boldly defying convention, Casiotone CT-S1000V does what no other keyboard can do: speak or type your lyrics into the free Lyric Creator app for iOS/Android, transfer them to CT-S1000V and play the keys to hear your words come alive. Choose from multiple vocalist models and adjust age, vibrato, portamento and other parameters in real time. It can produce choirs, robotic sounds, vocoder-like textures and more. You can even create a custom vocalist based on an audio recording.

Keys to the kingdom
Casiotone CT-S1000V features 61 full-size touch responsive keys in a sleek, stylish case that weighs less than ten pounds. The easy-to-read LCD display and intuitive controls give you everything you need to perform and create. Use the pitch bend wheel and modulation knob to add natural (or supernatural) expression to your playing, and use the two assignable knobs to tweak EQ, filter, effects and many other settings on the fly.

The heart of a champion
Casio's AiX Sound Source delivers sound quality that you'd expect from a keyboard costing hundreds, if not thousands more. Power on CT-S1000V and you'll be presented with a dynamic, expressive German concert grand piano placed in a virtual concert hall. The huge collection of 800 Tones also has stellar examples of electric pianos, organs, strings, synths and so much more, with Advanced Tones adding complex layers that react to your playing. A collection of vintage keyboard sounds is also included, featuring recreations of timeless, sought-after keyboard instruments, even classic Casio sounds from its VL, VZ and CZ series.

A world of music to explore
CT-S1000V's 243 full-accompaniment Rhythms make it a perfect jamming partner. Simply play a few notes and it creates an entire backing band that reacts effortlessly to the way you play. The variety of Rhythms spans the globe as well as the history of recorded music, so no matter what kind of mood you're in, your Casiotone is always ready to back you up with vibrant acoustic drums, vintage drum machines, global percussion instruments, rock-solid basslines, horn ensembles, rhythm guitars and much more.

Small size, huge sound
There are four ways to experience CT-S1000V's amazing sound quality at its best. First, the bass-ported stereo speaker system delivers eyebrow-raising punch and clarity throughout the entire volume range. Second, plug in a good set of headphones for personal play. Third, connect the 1/4" line outputs to any amplifier, PA system or mixer. Fourth, push the SURROUND button and the speakers will place you right in the middle of your music.

Production power
Make the world your instrument by using the built-in audio sampler to create custom Tones and drum kits. You can even sample from incoming Bluetooth audio. A 6-track sequencer is always on hand to capture and build your creations.

Free play enabled
Casiotone CT-S1000V fits perfectly into your everyday life. It's also gig-ready, with 1/4" line outputs to connect to amps and PA systems. If you're tired of being tied down, just put in 6 AA batteries, attach a strap and play anywhere. Use the included WU-BT10 Bluetooth MIDI/audio adapter to control other gear remotely, giving you the freedom to take center stage.

Own your sound
CT-S1000V makes it easy to create your own signature sounds. You can layer, split and customize the versatile DSP effects, then save your setups as Registrations for easy recall at the touch of a button.

Connected to your world
The microUSB port connects your CT-S1000V to any Mac, PC, iOS or Android device with no drivers or installation needed. Use the free Casio Music Space app for iOS/Android to learn to learn MIDI songs, play and extract chords from audio files, view PDF scores and more. With the included WU-BT10 Bluetooth MIDI/audio adapter, you can even connect wirelessly to your favorite devices to control them via MIDI, or to use the CT-S1000V as a Bluetooth speaker.

Synthmas '21 w/ Synthfluencer

Door #6: Lasst uns froh und munter sein (Let us be happy and cheerful) - Synthmas '21
video upload by Synthfluencer

"The gear:
This song is played on the Casio CZ-5000 digital synthesizer. With the CZ series Casio stepped into the professional music market after getting famous with the VL-1, PT-1 and other casual instruments. All CZ synths used a synthesis technology called phase distortion. Some preferred PD before FM synthesis, since it can create bell-like sounds as well as warm analog sounding pads. Even though missing velocity and aftertouch as built in the CZ-1, the CZ-5000 was the second best equipped synth of the family. The two DCOs are capable of playing 8 different wave forms, can be ring modulated and formed by 3 envelopes for each DCO (DCA = VCA, DCW = VCF, DCO = VCO). The envelopes can have up to 8 stages what gives huge possibilities for sound design. Key split, layer sounds, a sequencer - not really easy to operate but unique in the price range at the time - and a really good sounding chorus made the CZ-5000 a dream synth for many electronic music enthusiasts.

Because operating the internal sequencer is a fiddly job I used a Korg-SQD1 for sequencing the song. The simple multi track sequencer was very popular in the 80s Detroit techno scene.

Trailer material: Pexels.com (image @seurafrancis99, video @cottonbro)"

Door #5: Morgen, Kinder, wird’s was geben (Tomorrow, Children, Something Will Be) - Synthmas '21
video upload by

The song:
Originally named "Die Weihnachtsfreude" (The Joy of Christmas) the song occured first in the 18th century. It describes the childrens thrill of anticipation awaiting Christmas Eve.

The gear:
For this song I used the Yamaha MODX. The modern digital synth is basically using two synthesis engines: AWM2 is a sample based engine while the FM part is an enhanced version of legendary DX-7 engine that shaped 80s pop fundamentally. As the AWM2 synthesis allows an instrumentation in any thinkable fashion, the song's version presented here makes use of original DX-7 factory patches only. That gives the desired retro touch.

FM synthesis was a giant leap in synth architecture. Not only that digital synthesis was available for a broad customer base; the DX-7 put cutting edge expression technologys into play like breath control and MIDI and made upper class features like after touch available for the ordinary synthesist. The (then) unique e-piano patch defined a new standard and became a mandatory element of 80s synth ballads. The possibility of adding a (digital) filter and effects to the FM engine's sounds makes the MODX kind of a 'super DX7'. Hence the name MOreDX?

Trailer material: Pexels.com (image @seurafrancis99, video @cottonbro)"

Door #4: Es ist für uns eine Zeit angekommen (Unto us a time has come) - Synthmas '21


"The song:
The melody came up in the 19th century as a traditional Swiss star boys' singers Christmas carol. From it's origin, the Wiggertal in the Canton of Lucerne it found it's way to Germany. While first sung with the original lyrics, under the reign of the Nazis a secular version was created. Like years later the communist GDR regime, the Nazis tried to remove the christian aspects from Christmas - our celebration of commerce we all love so much today. Nevertheless, this version is the most common used for the song today.

The gear:
The song is played by a Roland JV-1010. Sometimes derided as a "ROMpler", this multi-timbral digital synth is equipped - like it's bigger brother the JV-1080 - with many legendary sounds of Roland's 80s flagship D-series (10/20/50). Like Roland D-synths the JV-1010 creates it's sounds using LA-Synthesis. Therefore calling it "ROMpler" is simply wrong. LA-Synthesis was Roland's bold move to finally break the success of Yamaha's FM-Synthesis intruduced in early 80s with the legendary DX-7. The idea behind LA-Synthesis is that real instrument sounds (back then synths aimed most notably to imitate real instruments) are recognized by the very first parts of a sound. So LA or linear arythmethic synthesis using very short samples at the beginning of a sound continued with subtractive synthesis.

For this song I only used factory presets. I think the JV-1010/1080 has a wonderful warm sound. A Roland D-10 was my very first synth that broke a few years ago and I always thought about replacing it by another one or a D-50. But the JV-1010 turned out to be much more than a makeshift. Love it!

Trailer material: Pexels.com (image @seurafrancis99, video @cottonbro)"

CLICK FOR MORE »

Introducing Modern Sounds Pluto - 2-Voice, 2-Sequencer Mini-Modular Synthesizer

Pluto – First Walkthrough and Demo video upload by Modern Sounds

"This is the first video walkthrough of Pluto, a 2-voice, 2--sequencer mini-modular synthesizer. Lots more to cover, but this should give a good overview of how it works.
Skip to 15:45​ for no-talking demo.

Pluto – Some Pluto-only synth jams, no talking


"The fam helped put together some quick jams. Audio is a direct recording of Pluto. No effects added. (Sorry about the blurriness and intermitent shaky cam. Camera is doing some autofocus weirdness.)



via Modern Sounds

"Pluto is compact and portable, with abilities that belie its small size. Five channels of modulation (named for the five moons of Pluto), two voices, two sequencers, a mini-keyboard, and onboard delay make Pluto its own complete sound environment, but it can happily play with all your other gear.

The design of Pluto draws from a legacy of portable electronic instruments, from the Buchla Music Easel to 80s Casio synthesizers. With a focused, approachable interface, Pluto invites exploration.

Features
Compact 2-voice, 2-sequencer patchable synthesizer
Easily create complex, randomized sequences
Low-aliasing digital oscillators, wavetable oscillators
Mini touch keyboard
Clock range from 1 bpm to audio rates
Audio input for audio processing (line level)
Audio output (headphone, line out)
Quantize to preset scales, MIDI, or even audio input
Built-in delay with looping and glitch modes
Eurorack-compatible patch signals (5v)
Sync In & Out
MIDI In & Out (TRS, USB)
2 channels CV Out (0-5v, default 1v/oct calibrated)
Power/charge via USB (Micro B, cable included)
Rechargeable 2500mAh battery

Size and Weight
7.5 x 3.5 x 1.57 inches, 12oz
190.5 x 87.5 x 40mm, 340g"

10 Iconic Depeche Mode Intros

Espen Kraft

"Some iconic Depeche Mode intros and openings.
Live sequenced and played on a variety of 80s synths, samplers and drum machines.

Songs:
Master and Servant (Some Great Reward) 1984
New Life (Speak and Spell) 1981
Just Can't Get Enough (Speak and Spell) 1981
Meaning of Love (A Broken Frame) 1982 *wrong picture art and title in the video -SORRY!
Nothing to Fear (A Broken Frame) 1982
Everything Counts (Construction Time Again) 1983
New Dress (Black Celebration) 1986
Agent Orange (Music For the Masses) 1987
Enjoy the Silence (Violator) 1990
Never Let Me Down Again (Music For the Masses) 1987
World in My Eyes (Violator) 1990 - Outro music

Gear used:
Emax 2, Casio CZ1000, E-MU Drumulator, Akai S700, Sequential TOM, Roland Alpha Juno, Sequential Six-Trak, Yamaha TX816, Korg Poly-61, Roland JX-8P.

Every segment is sequenced by Nuendo DAW with midi sync going to a Doepfer MSY2 that provides necessary trigger sync to drum machines when needed.
The Emax 2 and Roland Alpha Juno 2 is played live, while other sounds and parts have been overdubbed."

Jarre/Hammer/Tangerine Dream | 80s Synth Style

Published on Apr 2, 2020 Espen Kraft

"Support this channel on Patreon:
https://www.patreon.com/espenkraft

What if Jean Michel Jarre, Jan Hammer and Tangerine Dream made some music together in the 80s, what would it sound like?
One night I just faffed around with that idea and this is what came out.

Download the track here if you want:
https://espenkraft.bandcamp.com/track...

Gear used:
Bass: Korg MS10
Chords: Korg Poly-61
Arpeggio: Korg DSS-1
Voice: Casio FZ-10M
Drums: EMU Drumulator (+ 1 additonal clap added in post)
Mixed and mastered in the DAW.

The bass and the chords were recorded in one pass each, as audio, straight in, hence some slight timing issues here and there."

Befaco VCMC Voltage Controlled MIDI Controller for Eurorack

Published on Oct 24, 2019 Molten Music Technology

"Let me introduce you to the VCMC from Befaco. It takes all your Eurorack CV modulation, notes and gates and maps them into MIDI so that your DAW or your MIDI synth or soft synth can be controlled and played from your rack. With VCMC you can incorporate soft and hard synths into your Eurorack workflow - that's blooming excellent!"

VOLTAGE CONTROL YOUR MIDI GEAR! with the Befaco VCMC

Published on Oct 24, 2019 DivKidVideo

"Here we have a lovely final piece of the puzzle in terms of studio and live connectivity between voltage controlled gear (primarily Modular Synths) and MIDI gear. The Befaco VCMC is a "voltage controlled MIDI controller" that provides 8 gate inputs, 8 buttons, 8 faders, 8 CV inputs and 2 additional aux inputs that can all be configured for various 1v/oct + gate to MIDI note, gate to MIDI note, MIDI CC, velocity, pitch bend and a whole manner of MIDI data. Set up is relatively quick and easy selecting the input, choosing it's function and then it's MIDI channel. Once your voltages are converted to MIDI you have a USB B and 5 pin DIN MIDI output to connect to all your MIDI gear, modern, vintage, computer based etc. I have more videos to come with the VCMC including looking at using Bitwig and the Boss RV500 reverb pedal. Do let me know what else you'd like to see with the VCMC in the comments.

TIMING INDEX // SECTIONS

00:00 intro and previews

02:22 Getting around VCMC and basic set up

03:12 Monophonic CV gate control of a MIDI synth. Korg MS-20 (kit version).

04:19 Setting up the MS-20 1v/oct to MIDI note patch

05:08 A quick look at the new Instrument Interface from Befaco (used for processing external gear through the modular set up in this video).

05:29 Sequencing the Korg Volca Sample with modular gate sequences + using stepped random CV to modulate MIDI CC parameters AND an additional slider CC controller.

06:52 Setting up gate sequencing and voltage modulation patch.

08:18 Duophonic sequencing of a Casio CZ-1 phase distortion synth. Using two pairs of gates and 1v/oct signals.

09:17 Setting up duophonic voltage sequencing

10:40 Modular fader box to voltage control DAW software"

Aphex Twin UNIQUE SUPER RARE RSF SD-140 VINTAGE Drum Machine ?

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.
video upload by urgobenz

"Original samples and patterns by urgobenz.

Pattern n°1 : RSF SD140 (no effect)
Pattern n°2, 3 and 4 : RSF SD140 (with reverb).
Pattern n°5 : RSF SD140 + Korg 700s
Pattern n°6 : RSF SD140 + Chroma Polaris"

03 DMX Krew - Sppoookey [BREAKIN RECORDS]

video upload by edmx

via this auction

This one was spotted and sent in via xonox who noticed the following: "No mention is made in the auction but there is AFX scratched on the surface of the machine. According to Ed DMX (DMX Krew), Aphex Twin used one on his early tracks. Interview here. It is not my auction, i have no insider knowledge on anything either. Is it possible it's indeed one of AFX's drum machines or is it some classic AFX prank ?"

The SD140 has only been featured on the site twice before this post.

The following is the full description from the listing saved for the archives:

"Up for sale a unique extremely rare vintage drum machine. impossible to find it in another place. Many years ago I found this diamond and made the service in a professional workshop. Please note - this is an old gear for the collection and synth enthusiasts, this drum machine is in working condition, but I will not accept any returns and no compensation after the sale - please accept it. These are the first innovative electronic music devices and therefore you can see in the pictures the old technology of plastic coatings and touch buttons have traces of use, but all functions and buttons are well work.- It runs on 220 volt AC.The sound of this beast is very unique, the sound structure and flow are capable of creating incredible emotions and creative potency. The sound is incredibly relevant, I give a detailed description below. The package will be sent internationally, I pack the electronics well — a double strong box and a lot of bubble — look at my seller feedback.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Casio at Synthplex

Published on Apr 3, 2019 Casio Music Gear

"Clips captured from the Casio booth at the the inaugural Synthplex expo in Burbank, California. All audio is from the Casio Privia PX-5S.

Hope to see you next year."

Mario Mathy : Jumping dance - The Ultimate Casio Synth Tribute

Published on Jan 10, 2019 Lindsey Tuteleers

This one is in via Jos: "Mario Mathy posted a video of his synth song Jumping Dance on his YouTube channel from the 80’s."

---

I almost thought someone overdubbed the music but you can clearly see this is what he is playing! Enjoy. :)

I think it's all Casio gear. Thought I saw Roland in there but not seeing it now. If you spot anything else feel free to comment. The ultimate Casio tribute!

Update via Jos:

"He endorsed Casio, I suspect he got the instruments from Casio on condition he promoted them. As a fact he had a music store in Belgium selling only Casio gear for a few years in the 90’s. No Roland, no Korg, only Casio. On his first album ‘Hello This Is Mario Mathy’, I’m pretty sure there are songs he used also other equipment, from before his Casio endorsement.

Few days ago I posted a video that was broadcasted on Belgian TV, end of latest December, featuring Mario Mathy, looking back on his music career:"

Mario Mathy Belgium's 80's synthesizer King looks back

Published on Jan 13, 2019 LtPicard

"Belgium 's synthesizer king of the 80's, Mario Mathy looks back 30 years. Featuring fractions of Jambo Sana, Liberty, Jumping Dance."

Update via @LindseyTutelee1

Cool comic strip featuring Mario Mathy playing Super Mario. The track would translate well as a chiptune, not to mention the title.

譫妄 - 鬼的影子 by 鬼的影子

ghost's shadow by ghost's shadow

via 鬼的影子:

"This track was a mostly analog hardware jam recorded live with a 2-track Revox PR99 1/4" reel to reel at 7 1/2 ips. Prior to recording I programmed drum tracks on a Roland TR-909 and TR-808, mixed via an old tube amp as I have run out of mixer channels. The kick is being sent to a Sherman Filterbank. The percussion is going through a channel of the Overstayer Saturator. The track also features a Roland SH-5 for the bassline, which is sequenced by a Make Noise Rene and triggered by a Doepfer Darktime (Rene trigger is not strong enough). TR-909 kick and SH-5 bass are on a group going through the other channel of the Overstayer Saturator. The obvious synth part is done with a Casio CZ-5000 of which the synth part was programmed by me from initialised patch. It is going through a ZVEX Lofi-Junky pedal, a Moog Phaser and Dr Scientist Cosmichorus. There is some subtle synth sounds (noise / fx) on L & R stereo field that is done by a PIN Portabella (modern EMS Synthi A clone) and the same sequence from Doepfer Darktime is playing some role in sequencing this from memory. The kind of ehtnic sound near the end of the track is a patch on a Make Noise shared system, using all of the modules in some way. I did a lot of tweaking on the shared system whilst recording. Also used is a Daking FetIII on percussion group and SH-5, and a Joe Meek Twin Q, Bellari RP-583 plus a couple of Valley People 610's on compression and side-chaining duties. Reverb is a spring reverb by IGS called Springtime, and two of its channels is used for a stereo synth bus, while one channel is on the TR-909 kick drum and one channel on the TR-808&909 percussion. I also have two distortion pedals (the red Chandler Limited Little Devil Coloured Boost & the blue Germanium Drive) on a stereo bus for synths, one for the left, one for the right and mix this bus in subtly. Mixed on a 8 Channel Toft Board. Mastered by myself for sound quality as oppossed to loudness by playing back the tape recording through a Thermionic Culture Vulture, followed by a Rockruepel Comp.Two, then a Tubetech HLT2a and finally a Rockruepel Limit.One before being recorded by a Tascam DA-3000.

About me:
I love analog machines and the older technology of the 90's, including tracks made live with hardware before producing with computers was all the rage. I like thinking of the sound generating gear as instruments, which is why I do not use a computer to make music (I don't consider the computer as a very good instrument to jam on, although it is possible as lots of other people demonstrate - such as my friend Skueue who shows how powerful a computer can be for jamming). A lot of my interest in music is closely related to machines, and without machines I may not have had such an interest in pursuing a hobby in music and sound design. My gear is not dissimilar a nice car to car enthusiasts, and I have chosen gear over owning a car, clothes shopping, fancy restaurants etc. I am not interested in fame, money or popularity and really appreciate people that do music, and art in general, for the love of it. I believe in making unique music based on going with what you feel rather than what you've heard others doing and trying to recreate something that's already been done. I use chinese characters as an artist name as most people will not be able to search for you, which ultimately makes the focus of building your brand name and being popular non-existant. This way, I can focus entirely on making music and not the associated things that come with it."

Plogue chipcrusher v2.0 : Retro-Digital Multi-FX

Published on Nov 13, 2018 Plogue Art et Technologie, Inc.

"Now available (free for registered users)
New DAC Encodings: -CVSD -MOZER -HAAR TRANSFORM -LPC-SP0256 -VOCODER
SPC Delay effect from forthcoming 'chipsynth SFC'
UI Redesign from http://www.kikencorp.com
NKS FX Support!

Downloads and more info:
https://www.plogue.com/products/chipc..."

"Nostalgic for vintage sound encodings, 80s computer speakers, or the SPC Delay from a famous 16-bit console? chipcrusher's got all that, plus grit (background noise) and filter-impulse responses.

HOW DOES IT SOUND?
There is a wide spectrum of results achievable with chipcrusher. Here are a few use cases:

Uniquely destroy/mangle a beat, a guitar or any other audio track.
Play single hits and emulate the sound of old samplers.
Add ‘accurate dirt’ to chipsounds’s output.
Emulate a classic 16-bit console's "Delay/verb" to a track
There are four main components in chipcrusher: DAC Encoding, SPC Delay, Background Noise and Cabinet. The audio inputs first go to the DAC Encoding. Then gets processed by the SPC Delay, mixed with the Background Noise to finally get sent to the Cabinet stage. Of course, each component can be bypassed on demand without muting the audio.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Top Gear - Single Synth Tracks by Stef Animal

Use the skip forward & back controls on the right to play different tracks. The embed starts on track 4 for some reason.

This one is in via Greg Cole on The MATRIXSYNTH Lounge:

"I thought this might be of interest, a local talented musician made this album, each track made in a day 'using sounds from a different piece of cheap or unfashionable musical equipment'. Amiga, Casios including SK-1!, BBC Micro, a duck caller, simple waveform generator and many more. Stream and purchase here also: https://stef-animal.bandcamp.com"

Note: Jaycar and Letron are new brands to the site. Never featured them before now. Enjoy.

1. Loading (Casio CA-100) 01:01
2. In the Pines (Casio SK-1) 03:29
3. Ducks (Cass Creek Electronic Waterfowl Call) 01:28
4. You Have Powers! (Casiotone MT-800) 02:40
5. Cave Story (Acorn BBC Micro) 00:52
6. The TGV (Roland U-220) 02:03
7. The Ghost (Jaycar Waveform Generator) 00:31
8. Adventure (Yamaha VSS-200) 02:01
9. The Golden Condor (Commodore Amiga 500) 02:17
10. Dragon Swirl (Ploytec PL2) 02:17
11. Owl (Roland MT-32) 02:12
12. The City (Yamaha TX81Z) 01:31
13. Running Music (Atari 2600) 00:46
14. End Credits (Letron MC-38) 02:18
15. Our Spanish Dream (Roland U-110) 03:56

Moby's Official Reverb Shop | Reverb Artist Shops

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.
Published on Apr 24, 2018 Reverb

"Moby's contributions to the music world are undeniable, but there's no stopping him. Now he's contributing even more by unloading decades of gear, including the synths, turntables, and microphones you might expect, as well as some more unusual gear such as the bass guitar that he used in a reggae jazz fusion band (true story), and a pair of mariachi sombreros that starred in his music video for 'The Perfect Life.' All proceeds from these sales will benefit the Physician's Committee for Responsible Medicine"

You can find Moby's shop on Reverb here.

Check out the Serge system:

"This Serge Modular Music System SMMS Series 79 is part of the private collection of Moby.

Around 1979, a fourth generation of Serge modules started to appear, complimenting the 1976 modules and replacing some earlier modules. The current Serge panel graphics style also appeared around this time.

The new modules included: Active processor Resonant equalizer 4//6/7/8 step sequencer Divide/n comparator, dual comparator, Schmitt trigger, Wilson Analog Delay, Balanced modulator, Quantizer Frequency shifter, Quadrature oscillator, Dual VCA Envelope follower / preamp and N voice controller.

Also, new electronics were designed for the audio mixer/processor/scaling/buffering modules and the VCA/panners. The "paper face" panel graphics were replaced with metal-ized plastic film.

Throughout this period, systems were available built or as kits - boards supplied pre-built and tested but you wire the panels up yourself. In 1979, Serge offered a standard module configuration - the "System 79". The N voice controller was a polyphonic interface which worked with a modified Casio keyboard. Sadly it appeared around 1982, just before MIDI.

This rare and ultimately unique Serge synth is fully functioning in testing with wear consummate with this synths age. A truly wild and rare piece from Moby's personal collection. The belle of the ball.

All items in Moby's Reverb Store ship fully insured with a signed and embossed Certificate Of Authenticity from Moby."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Introducing the Casio CT-X Series Keyboards

Published on Jan 25, 2018 Casio Music Gear

"Portability has never sounded so good.

The new CT-X-series completely redefines the portable keyboard category, boasting sound quality found in keyboards costing hundreds, if not thousands of dollars more. Whether you're just starting out, or a touring pro who needs serious sounds on the go, CT-X delivers far beyond your expectations."

Not finding any additional details on the model shown in the video on Casio's CTX site. Guessing these are preset only as they are not under the Casio Synthesizers category.

Casio Keyboards, the Right Choice

Published on Jul 18, 2017 Casio Music Gear

This one is just because I like to torture my readers every now and then.

"For over 37 years Casio has been creating instruments to inspire the next generation of musicians. Check out the latest Casio instruments at http://www.casiomusicgear.com"

Ataraxia ( Early Demo Version )

Published on Apr 24, 2017 Todd Smith

"Bandcamp https://toddsmithmusic.bandcamp.com/

Support my music, buy my album at Bandcamp today !!

This is a early version of a track for my upcoming album, A Distant Love for Life, the track is named Ataraxia. Ataraxia is the first song in which all my new gear is hooked up, loving the results. I used no added external effects on the early version of this track.

I plan to evolve this track a lot more, I'll share the results. Only the best end results will make the album. A playlist with all the demo version from A Distant Love for Life is below, enjoy !

: Gear Used :

Korg Microkorg ( Synth Seq )
Roland Boutique JU-06 ( Bass Seq )
Akai XR20 ( Drums )
Ensoniq ESQ1 ( Live Keys )
Casio VZ300 ( Live Pad )
Focusrite SCARLETT 18i8

: iOS Software :

Auria ( Mixing / Recording )
ModStep ( Sequencing )"

Knobcon 2016 Details are In

"Knobcon, the world's only synthesizer convention, returns to the Hyatt Regency Schaumburg near Chicago IL USA for the fifth happening of this immersive event featuring over 60 exhibitors, live performances and workshops!

Knobcon:
Jack to the Future Part V
$35 Entry Fee for ALL 3 DAYS!
Optional Knobcon Banquet only $50

It all begins with an opening reception on Friday, September 9 with live performances by Allerian, Entanglement, Studio Dummies, and Suit & Tie Guy. Attendees of the reception will also enjoy specially priced drinks featuring whiskey from Balcones Distilling.

Multiple exhibit halls open to the public at 10AM Saturday and Sunday and are filled to capacity with large manufacturers such as Roland, Korg, Yamaha, and Moog, the finest boutique modular and pedal companies, and even some "classic cars" that collectors bring to display. Behringer’s new analog polysynth DeepMind12 will be making its North American debut at the event. Also appearing will be the new Minimoog Model D from Moog, and Arturia's Matrixbrute. See the latest releases and even purchase gear at special Knobcon pricing throughout the weekend!

Workshops scheduled on Saturday and Sunday, Sept 10-11. See the Knobcon website (www.knobcon.com) for complete descriptions and times.
• Syntheizer Basics and Synthesizer Myths presented by Marc Doty
• History and Theory of Additive Synthesis presented by Jon Sonnenberg
• Birth of the Prophet VS presented by Chris Meyer
• Tomita: A Voyage Through His Greatest Techniques presented by Nicholas D. Kent
• Experimental Music: Composition with an Arduino MIDI Controller presented by Elliott Inman
• MIDI: What’s it All About? presented by Amos Gaynes
• BeatPPL - Live Podcast Recording
• SynthSummitShow - Live Podcast Recording
• Learn to solder SMT with synthCube building a Buffered Mult and Cable Tester Module
• Build an AstroNoise Euro Module or Standalone Circuit with Synthrotek
• Build a Dual Passive Low Pass Gate Euro Module with Modular Addict

Saturday evening features multiple events including the annual Knobcon Banquet with a keynote address by guest of honor, Bill Hemsath. Enjoy cocktail music by the Knobcon Supper Club All-Stars, a classic organ, guitar, and drums trio.

Bill Hemsath, RA Moog's Chief Engineer from 1969 to 1971, gave us three fantastic things we all treasure to this day. He developed the first CV joystick, which then became pitch and mod wheels. He also had the bright idea to wire some modules together in a box with a keyboard, and the Minimoog was born.

The entertainment continues Saturday night with multiple live music events. The Knobcon Big Room - a house and techno party with projections by Lorenzo Vektor and Dennis Stein. Big Room performers include Glacial 23, Introvert, Low-Gain, Komprezzor and Oliver Dodd. If that's not your thing, head over to the International Players Club - a live music and jam session with The SynthFreq & Friends.

Knobcon ends on Sunday, September 11 at 5pm.

Full event details can be found at www.knobcon.com

EXHIBITORS
2hp, 4ms Company, Amplified Parts, Analogue Solutions, Antimatter Audio, Art For The Ears, Artisan Electronic Instruments, Arturia, Audient, Behringer, Believotron, Black Market Modular, Blue Lantern Modules, Casio, Detachment 3, Detroit Modular, Division 6, Dreadbox, EarthQuaker Devices, Elite Modular, Erogenous Tones, Evaton Technologies, EVE Audio, Future Retro, Foxtone Music, Grove Audio, Hexinverter Électronique, Industrial Music Electronics, Kilpatrick Audio, Korg, KVgear, Malekko Heavy Industry, Metalphoto of Cincinnati, Modal Electronics, Mode Machines, Moog Music, Moon Modular, Modular Addict, Nerd Audio, Noisebug, Novation, Old Crow, Percussa, Perfect Circuit Audio, Plastiq Musiq, Qu-Bit, Reverb, Roland, Sleepery Supply, STG Soundlabs, Syinsi, synthCube, Synth City, Synthrotek, Synthesis Technology, Tsyklon Labs, Verbos Electronics, WMD, Yamaha, Zetaohm, Żłob Modular, Z. Vex Effects"