"In celebration of the 2023 holiday season and Cherry Audio's fifth year, we've released the FREE Synthesizer Expander Module, a virtual instrument plugin based on a classic 1974 analog synthesizer.
Synthesizer Expander Module is Cherry Audio's free emulation of the classic self‑contained synthesizer module of the same name. Though it was a simple, barebones monosynth, the Synthesizer Expander Module possessed a unique tone quality, courtesy of its 12 dB/oct state-variable filter. With lowpass, bandpass, highpass, and notch modes, this flexible filter was the star of the show. We've precisely recreated it here with a filter section and Phasor effect programmed by award-winning synth designer Mark Barton (MRB).
'Sleigh Ride' by Mitchell Sigman, created with Synthesizer Expander Module"
Press release follows:
December 1, 2023: In celebration of the 2023 holiday season and Cherry Audio's fifth year, the company has released the FREE Synthesizer Expander Module, a virtual instrument plugin based on a classic 1974 analog synthesizer. The plugin is available immediately from Cherry Audio at cherryaudio.com/santa.
Synthesizer Expander Module is Cherry Audio's free emulation of the classic Oberheim® self‑contained synthesizer module of the same name. Though it was a simple, barebones monosynth, the Synthesizer Expander Module possessed a unique tone quality, courtesy of its 12 dB/oct state-variable filter. With lowpass, bandpass, highpass, and notch modes, this flexible filter was the star of the show. We've precisely recreated it with a filter section and Phasor effect programmed by award-winning synth designer Mark Barton (MRB).
And best of all, it's absolutely free! Synthesizer Expander Module joins other free virtual instruments from Cherry Audio, such as the popular Surrealistic MG-1 Plus and the highly acclaimed Voltage Modular Nucleus virtual modular platform. As it celebrates its fifth anniversary in the desktop music production space, Cherry Audio is concluding an astoundingly successful year with this holiday gift to all musicians.
Despite being a free plugin, Synthesizer Expander Module is fully featured. It will delight both vintage synth fans and today's music producers. Synthesizer Expander Module features include: Ultra-accurate dual oscillators Multi-mode filter emulation by award-winning synth designer Mark Barton (MRB) Massive unison mode 100 presets for Basses, Leads, and Percussion Unique "Phasor" effect section emulating the vintage Oberheim stomp box, also replicated by Mark Barton Studio-quality Echo effect with tempo sync Complete MIDI control and DAW automation for all controls, with easy-to-use MIDI learn and mapping (Preset and Global) Highly optimized DSP for optimal performance User-adjustable oversampling control Did we mention totally free? Synthesizer Expander Module is available at no cost exclusively from Cherry Audio and provided in AU, VST, VST3, AAX, and standalone formats for Windows (7 and above) and macOS (10.13 and above), including native support for Apple Silicon. Visit cherryaudio.com for additional product details, system requirements, and sound demos.
"A ride along the entire length of California Highway 87, the Guadaloupe Freeway, through San Jose. It begins in the southern part of the city at an interchange with Highway 85, runs alongside the downtown area, and ends at US 101 near San Jose International Airport.
The ride features a very 1980s-inspired soundtrack with the following synthesizers and instruments:
Yamaha RX5 drum machine
Arturia Jun-6 V, Jup-8 V, Synclavier, CMI V, Pigments, SQ-80 V, SEM filter
Cherry Audio Elka-X, Pro Soloist, Sines, GX-80
Arturia MiniFreak
E350 Morphing Terrarium
Strymon StarLab
Metasonix R-53 Waveshaper
EastWest Ministry of Rock
RMI Piano instrument for Kontakt"
"Synth Stack 4 assembles 22 of Cherry Audio's virtual instruments at a stunning price, only $299 or less for a very limited time! This astounding collection features 19 emulations of classic vintage synthesizers, three original synthesizers, one massive modular synthesizer platform, and nearly 8,000 presets.
PRESS RELEASE - November 21, 2023: Cherry Audio has announced Synth Stack 4, the 2023 update to their complete collection of 22 virtual instruments at an astoundingly affordable price. Synth Stack 4 includes 19 emulations of classic vintage synthesizers, three original synthesizers, one massive modular synthesizer platform, and nearly 8,000 presets.
In total, Synth Stack 4 is packed with nearly $1,000 worth of products and is available for a limited time at the stunningly low introductory price of only $299 - that's less than $14 per instrument! This introductory price is available until December 5th, after which Synth Stack 4 returns to its regular price of $399. Already own a previous version of Synth Stack or other individual Cherry Audio instruments? Sign in to see your personalized and discounted price at checkout!
Synth Stack 4 includes:
Voltage Modular Core + Electro Drums, a powerhouse collection of modular madness including 120 modules and over 600 presets.
DCO-106, a stunning recreation of the much-loved Juno-106 polysynth of the 80's.
CA2600, a powerful, self-contained duophonic synthesizer inspired by the groundbreaking ARP 2600 synthesizer.
Surrealistic MG-1 Plus Synthesizer, a super authentic recreation of the fun and funky Moog MG-1 synthesizer sold in Radio Shack stores in 80s.
Polymode, inspired by the groundbreaking Moog Polymoog synthesizer, one of the world’s first polyphonic synthesizers.
""Ghosts in the Machine" by The British Stereo Collective. ALL sounds (including percussion) were played by hand exclusively on Cherry Audio's Pro Soloist virtual instrument. No other synths were used in this recording.
Composer, artist, and producer Phil Heeks of The British Stereo Collective draws his inspiration from classic 70s/80s TV theme compilations, film soundtracks, and sound effects LPs of the era. Read more about Phil's various projects and links to his work at https://cherryaudio.com/videos/excerp..."
Introduction to Cherry Audio's Pro Soloist - Hosted by Tim Shoebridge
"To get users up and running with Pro Soloist, Cherry Audio and Tim Shoebridge of Sound Mangling have again teamed up to create an introductory tutorial video walking users through the extensive features of this iconic virtual synthesizer instrument."
Cherry Audio Pro Soloist: A detailed demo/tutorial of a prog rock and 1970s classic
"We take a detailed look at the new Pro Soloist from Cherry Audio, a recreation of the ARP Pro Soloist that became in mainstay in 1970s prog rock as well as a featured instrument in funk, electronic music, and more. We look at the features from the original, including the front-panel "paddle" presets and the unique touch sensor effects. We then take a deep dive below the hood into the enhanced features for directly editing the individual modules and parameters of the underlying synthesizer architecture (including the resonators) and explore the onboard effects section. Finally, we look at a few of the factory presets, including banks from INHALT and Vintage Vibes by James Dyson.
This instrument was developed in collaboration with Mark Barton, who was also behind the Novochord and Solovox instruments that we at CatSynth have enjoyed.
To find out more, please visit cherryaudio.com
"Pro Soloist is the latest in Cherry Audio's roster of ultimate 'what if?' virtual instruments. Featuring the precision crafted and circuit-modeled DSP designs of award-winning developer Mark Barton, Cherry Audio's Pro Soloist goes beyond emulating the treasured, preset-based monophonic analog synth originally released by ARP in 1972. Pro Soloist not only exactingly reproduces the expressive controls, 30 infamous presets, and the unique underlying architecture of this prog rock classic, it breaks it out of its cage by making it fully programmable and expanding it with full polyphony, splits and layers, a mod matrix, integrated studio-quality effects, and more."
00:00 Introduction 00:25 History of the Arp Pro Soloist 01:23 Overview of the Cherry Audio Pro Soloist 02:21 Original front-panel presets 08:35 Global controls 09:35 Touch Sensor Effects 16:00 Edit Mode 16:59 VCO 18:59 VCF 21:53 Resonator bank 23:53 Modulating the resonator bank with the mod matrix 26:45 Effects panel 34:46 Multi-layer mode 38:08 Factory Presets 42:18 Vintage Vibe expansion bank 43:44 Conclusion"
Press release follows.
"Cherry Audio releases the highly anticipated Pro Soloist, the latest in its growing line of authentic classic synth emulations. This Pro Soloist breaks out of its cage with fully programmability, expanded polyphony and dual layers, an arpeggiator, a mod matrix, studio-quality effects, and more.
PRESS RELEASE - November 21, 2023: Cherry Audio is thrilled to release the highly anticipated Pro Soloist, the latest in its growing line of authentic emulations of classic synthesizers. Featuring the precision-crafted and circuit-modeled DSP designs of esteemed developer Mark Barton, Pro Soloist goes far beyond reproducing the expressive controls, 30 presets, and the unique architecture of this 1972 classic. Most significantly, Cherry Audio breaks Pro Soloist out of its cage by making it fully programmable and expanding it with full polyphony, splits and layers, an arpeggiator, a mod matrix, integrated studio-quality effects, and more.
Early analog synthesizers were a mystery to most working musicians. In 1972, ARP Instruments released the Pro Soloist, one of the first commercially successful preset-based synthesizers. Pro Soloist featured a revolutionary electronic design and feature set, most notably its innovative "touch sensor" keyboard (now commonly known as aftertouch), where pressing a note harder introduces changes to the sound, allowing highly expressive playing. The Pro Soloist was a hit with acts as varied as Tangerine Dream, Gary Numan, Herbie Hancock, Styx, Prince, Parliament, and Vangelis. Perhaps best remembered was Tony Banks, who amplified the Pro Soloist's legendary presets in epic keyboard solos for the legendary band Genesis.
Cherry Audio has received countless requests to reproduce this oft-forgotten gem — one of those came from frequent collaborator Mark Barton (GX-80, Novachord + Solovox, Miniverse, and others). With unparalleled attention to detail, Mark has created an authentic reproduction of the analog signal path along with the 30 original presets, and together we have substantially expanded the Pro Soloist's capabilities. Cherry Audio has added a dual-layer voicing architecture, with 16 polyphonic voices per layer, that enables two different presets simultaneously, with independent panning for rich stereo timbres and complex sounds. Pro Soloist also includes a split keyboard mode and a brilliant “Last Note” option that effectively simulates polyphonic aftertouch using monophonic-aftertouch controllers.
Pro Soloist's distinctive three-panel interface makes clear that this is far more than a preset synth. Cherry Audio has precisely recreated the look and sounds of the original paddle presets in its main Performance mode panel. In Edit mode, we've exposed all of its unique analog synthesis architecture parameters, most notably, the fully-variable, five parallel bandpass filter "Resonator Bank," key to the Pro Soloist's realistic acoustic orchestra timbres. Additionally, we've revealed the LFO and ADSR/AR envelopes and elevated the sound design possibilities with a "Super Wave" oscillator and a robust six-slot modulation matrix. The Arp/FX panel rounds it out with a syncable arpeggiator and a dozen studio-quality effects for distortion, phaser, flanger/chorus, echo, and reverb.
In short, Cherry Audio has elevated the Pro Soloist from a bare-bones monophonic lead synth into a massive, polyphonic powerhouse beyond anything imagined 50 years ago.
Pro Soloist also features 450 presets created by an extraordinarily talented team of sound design veterans, including James Terris, INHALT, Drew Schlesinger, Huston Singletary, and Mark Barton. More captivating sounds are available in the Vintage Vibes Preset Pack (sold separately) by James Dyson. With additional touches such as Cherry Audio's acclaimed MIDI mapping functions, highly optimized DSP for optimal performance, and a visually immersive interface, Pro Soloist will satisfy both vintage synth aficionados and today's music producers.
A mint condition and serviced Pro Soloist can easily fetch $2,500 or more these days, and its unique architecture makes MIDI retrofits impossible. Cherry Audio is thrilled to introduce this virtual and expanded Pro Soloist at the jaw-dropping price of only $49 (list $69), obtainable now from cherryaudio.com and authorized resellers worldwide. Pro Soloist is also available as part of Cherry Audio's new and comprehensive Synth Stack 4 collection. This ultimate sonic package includes all 22 of Cherry Audio's virtual instruments to date at an unbelievably affordable price, on sale for a limited time.
Pro Soloist is available in AU, VST, VST3, AAX, and standalone formats for Windows (7 or above, including Windows 11) and macOS (10.13 and above), including native support for Apple Silicon. A free 30-day demo is available. Visit cherryaudio.com for additional product details, system requirements, videos, and an extensive collection of awe-inspiring sound demos."
"The view looking south from an eastbound subway train over the Manhattan Bridge in New York, with original music. The southern side of the bridge carries tracks for the N and Q lines of the New York City subway.
Filmed in January 2023
The music is built around the original sound from the subway rides. Instrumentation includes:
Arturia EFX Fragments
Tracktion KULT
Cherry Audio Mercury 6 and Stardust 201 delay
Jaymar toy piano
Landscape Stereo Field
Strymon Starlab
QuBit Prism
John Cage Prepared Piano from Big Fish Audio (Kontakt)
EastWest Hollywood Orchestra Solo Cello"
"A ride along I-287, I-87 and the New York State Thruway westbound in Westchester and Rockland Counties, just north of New York City. Along the way we cross over the Hudson River on the Tappan Zee Bridge, also known as the Gov. Mario M. Cuomo Bridge. The original Tappan Zee Bridge open in 1955 - it was only designed for a life span of 50 years, and was showing signs of decay by the 2000s. It was replaced in 2017 by the new twin cable-stayed span that we see in this video.
Filmed in October 2023, with pockets of fall foliage colors visible.
Original music by Amanda Chaudhary, featuring drums by G Calvin Weston and Amanda Chaudhary on synthesizers and electronics: QuBit Prism Cherry Audio Elka-X and Sines Arturia Pigments, Melltron V, and Stage 73 EastWest Ministry of Rock 2 (bass) Strymon StarLab E350 Morphing Terrarium Rossum Eletro-music Morpheus Metasonix R-54 Supermodule Big Fish Audio Grindhouse
0:00 Introduction 0:25 I-287 (Cross Westchester Expressway) 1:33 Merging with I-87 and the New York State Thruway 2:32 The Tappan Zee (Gov Mario M Cuomo) Bridge 4:00 Rockland County
"Are you thinking of purchasing the new Cherry Audio PS-3300 plugin? Check out this video! Make sure you purchase it directly from cherryaudio.com as 10% of the profits will be donated to our organization during the month of October. An option for an additional $5 donation is also available at checkout so please consider that as well, your support is greatly appreciated!
While we were involved in prior product releases (GX-80 and Novachord), this was our first collaboration from the ground level with Cherry Audio and we definitely wanted to make an impression. We felt that a recreation of our cherished and ultra-rare KORG PS-3300 polyphonic synthesizer would be the perfect candidate for Cherry to translate from the actual hardware to the computer screen in their inimitable style. They did the PS-3300 justice and we are extremely proud to have been the source of the secrets to this mythical beast. We are also extremely grateful to the fine folks at Cherry Audio who have gone above and beyond in their support of EMEAPP and our mission. We look forward to future projects together.
To learn more about EMEAPP, please visit emeapp.org and become a free member!"
"In this follow-up to the overwhelmingly popular PS-3300 tutorial. [Introduction video here]
Tim Shoebridge digs deeper into the semi-modular nature of PS-3300, and demonstrates a number of patching techniques to get more out of this monster synthesizer."
The Moog Minimoog Model D, originally released in 1970, is back in production. The three-oscillator, monophonic, analog synthesizer is housed in an Appalachian cherry cabinet and hand-finished aluminum chassis. Sounding as vibrant and deep as ever, its legendary low-pass ladder filter, powerful oscillators, and rich saturating mixer retain the exact component placement and through-hole design of a 1970s-era Minimoog Model D. While no changes have been made to the original sound engine or audio signal path, the 2022 Minimoog Model D includes a series of popular functional modifications that expand this legendary instrument's sonic capabilities, including a spring-loaded pitch wheel with center deadband, allowing for improved playability and wild performance flourishes.
Get more for your money with an exclusive Moog Minimoog Model D analog synthesizer bundle from Kraft Music. These package deals include the accessories you'll need to get the most out of your new synth, 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!"
"Friend and colleague @mikemmartin found instant inspiration in PS-3300 synthesizer and shared this exquisite new anthem, 'Spirit of the Maestro'. 14 PS-3300 instances, plus external drums and FX with Replika XT. Find out more about where PS-3300 could take you today at https://bit.ly/ps3300
"Music Technology Discussion with Rob Puricelli, Andrew Longhurst, Kent Spong and our very special guests, Dan Goldstein & Mitchell Sigman of Cherry Audio!
This week we're delighted to welcome back Dan & Mitchell of Cherry Audio, a company that in the last few years has grown its reputation for quality, affordable and quite excellent software synths that emulate some amazing synthesizer classics such as the ARP Quadra, Novachord, Jupiter 4 and 6 as well as classics like the Memorymoog, Synthex, GX1/CS80 and Polymoog, plus their own Dreamsynth & Sines!
Join us to hear all about the latest synths to be added to their collection, Harmonia and the brilliant recreation of the PS-3300!
We appreciate your help! All donations go directly toward making the show run smoothly. If you'd like to help support our streaming platform, you can make a donation via PayPal here:
"PS-3300 Features Exactingly faithful virtual analog emulation of the semi-modular analog polyphonic synthesizer released by Korg in 1977
Three independent "signal generator" panels, each with an oscillator, lowpass filter, three-peak resonators, envelope with velocity, amp, two mod generator LFOs, and per-note tuning:
3X VCOs with six waveforms: triangle, saw, rectangle (square), two preset pulse waves (with different widths), and PWM (variable-width pulse)
3X resonant VCF 12 dB/oct lowpass filters with the option to select between the standard "clean" PS filter or the "crunchier" MS-style filter
3X modulatable "triple resonators": 12 dB/oct bandpass filters to produce vowel and phasing tones
3X discreet ADSR-type envelope modulators with velocity control, and amplitude modulation
3X two syncable "mod generators" (LFOs) with output jacks: one with triangle, saw, ramp, rectangle, pink noise, and white noise, and the other with triangle waveform
3X temperament section with individual tuning knobs for the 12 chromatic notes, and temperament presets for Equal Tempered, Mean Tone System, Hepatonal System, and Just Intonation
Copy/paste settings from one signal generator panel to another
Polyphonic mode with up to 24 voices of polyphony and three monophonic modes: last, low, and high note priority
Semi-modular synthesizer with virtual jack and cable system, featuring unlimited mults per jack and customizable (color, transparency, animation) cables
Master signal mixer panel with sample & hold, general envelope generator, and two control voltage (CV) processors
Individual channel panning
User-selectable bend range and master tune
Studio-quality integrated effects: chorus, echo with sync, and three types of reverb (spring, plate, and Galactic)
Over 360 professionally designed presets in a dozen categories. These include a bonus Legacy collection of basic presets based on the patch sheets in the original PS-3300 Owner's Manual, a 3100-based Glissando patch, and a 432 Hz Equal Temperament patch, all to get your started in your own sound design adventures.
Standalone virtual instrument and plug-in versions
Complete MIDI control and DAW automation for all controls, with easy-to-use MIDI Learn and mapping
Cherry Audio’s popular Focus zoom-in feature, as well as standard UI zoom and resize via drag
Complete documentation available directly online from the instrument or in downloadable PDF format
User-adjustable oversampling control
Also available: With its three-synths-in-one architecture, unique resonators, and semi-modular nature, the PS-3300 is truly a behemoth of synthesizers. Sound designer James Dyson's Resonation Preset Pack (sold separately) includes additional presets that go further into the relative dimensions between light and shadow and all the way to the outer limits."
"'Interstellar' Mix composed with the Resonation Preset Pack for Cherry Audio PS-3300!
Original music by Hans Zimmer for the 2014 film Interstellar by Christopher Nolan
With its three-synths-in-one architecture, unique resonators, and semi-modular nature, Cherry Audio's PS-3300 is truly a behemoth of synthesizers. Sound designer James Dyson's Resonation Preset Pack (sold separately) includes additional presets that go further into the relative dimensions between light and shadow and all the way to the outer limits. The Resonation Preset Pack features an additional 100 presets in 10 categories showcasing PS-3300's awe-inspiring poly tones, otherworldly modulations, ethereal pads, bone-rattling sound effects, earthshaking basses, strings, leads, and more.
Presets from the Pack used for the Demo Track are as follows. Colours Of Summer Simplistic AI Rachel's Love Machine Spaceport Fractured Space Resonation Overloads The Traveller"
"PS-3300 is an exactingly faithful virtual analog emulation of the colossal and ultra-rare semi-modular analog polyphonic synthesizer released by KORG in 1977. Cherry Audio has pulled out all the stops to accurately recreate and update this mythical monster synth, from its massive stacked sonic character and signature multiple‑resonator sweeps to the considerable patching capabilities that distinguished the PS-3300 from all other polysynths at the time."
Introduction to Cherry Audio's PS-3300 - Hosted by Tim Shoebridge
"To get users up and running with PS-3300, Cherry Audio and Tim Shoebridge of Sound Mangling have again teamed up to create an introductory tutorial video walking users through the history and extensive features of this massive virtual synthesizer instrument.
"Today we present the new PS-3300 from our friends at Cherry Audio, in partnership with the good people at the Electronic Music Education and Preservation Project (EMEAPP). The original Korg PS-3300 is a massive polyphonic semi-modular analog synthesizer with three independent polyphonic synth voices, each of which has a multi-waveform oscillator, low-pass resonant filter, a unique three-band resonator, independent tuning of each note of the scale and more. Cherry Audio's version recreates the look and sound of the original, and adds some additional modern features.
Such a beast of an instrument deserves a beast of a video, almost an hour in length, packed with details about the history of the instrument, how each part of the synth voice works, how to use all three together, the global and effects sections, and factory presets."
00:00 Introduction 00:26 History of the Korg PS-3300 01:33 Overview 02:39 Single voice - oscillator 05:40 Low pass filter 10:42 Resonators 13:56 Amplitude and frequency modulation (single voice) 17:56 More global modules 19:55 Temperament and intonation 23:48 Multiple voices 25:57 Multiple resonators and low-pass filters 34:27 Cross-voice modulation 39:23 Different temperaments on each voice 41:33 The effects section 48:48 Factory Presets 57:15 Conclusion
**NEW** Cherry Audio PS3300 // 3 polyphonic synths in a semi modular box
"This is one CRAZY synth!! 3 full polyphonic synths in one big box. Here's my review, demo and walkthrough of the Cherry Audio PS3300. It's a replica of the Korg of the same name from 1977. This is a great example of a unique and characterful synth from the days when they were figuring out how best to create and control the tones.
Each voice has a single oscillator, lowpass filter, ADSR envelope and 2 LFOs. The resonators are a great addition - 3 resonant BP filters per voice - gives a lush or crazy phasing effect.
Follow all this with Cherry Audios FX, and the scalable interface, MIDI control etc etc and you end up with something well worth picking up. Have a cheese sandwich for you dinner and pick this up instead of a pizza!"
0:00 what is it? 2:35 Oscillators 4:52 Filter 6:20 Envelope 7:22 Polyphony 7:41 Keyboard Volume Balance 8:18 Resonators 9:50 Amp Modulation 10:27 Keyboard CV Outputs 11:08 Mixer 13:08 CV Processors 15:23 Sample and Hold 16:21 CV Processors Signal Invert
1. Synthfest UK 23: MyVolts - Nifty USB Power Solutions
At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with Caroline from MyVolts, and they've added to their panoply of useful power solutions for musicians. MyVolts showcased their new product, the Alchemist power distribution hub, which harnesses the versatility of USB-C to deliver various voltages from 5V to 20V. This means you can power a range of equipment, from vintage synths to modern gear, with one device. They've also taken their USB power innovation to the next level with a step-up 12V power tip, allowing users to draw 18W from USB to power gear like the Electron Analog Four on the go. MyVolts aims to simplify power management for musicians, addressing issues like earthing and noise, and they're actively seeking input from the community to fine-tune their solutions.
In addition to the Alchemist power hub, MyVolts will be releasing their own power banks, USB-C power cables with wattage indicators, and a range of power tips compatible with various voltages. This expansion means users can power a wide range of devices efficiently and conveniently. These products are expected to be available around February or March. MyVolts encourages you to fill out their survey to help them better understand and solve the unique power challenges musicians face.
2. Synthfest UK 23: Rides In The Storm - SED CSM Synth Voice
At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with Uwe from Rides In The Storm to get a glimpse of their upcoming modular synth voice module, the SED CSM. This module is a powerhouse of sound design possibilities, offering a wide range of features packed into a single unit. With two oscillator sections, three waveform options, pulse width modulation, and a wave folder, there's plenty of sonic flexibility on tap.
The SED CSM also includes a robust mixer section, a ring modulator, wave folder, noise source, and an external input, expanding its sound-shaping capabilities. Uwe demonstrated how the module can be used for lush soundscapes and dynamic modulation with its various features. SED CSM offers envelope generators with loopable modes and versatile LFOs and filter options.
We returned to the Analogue Solutions booth to chat again with Tom who showed us the second synth he’s released this year, Ample. Ample is a 3 VCO synth which combines some of the greatest bits of other Analogue Solutions synths, including a patch pin matrix similar to the Vostok, a sequencer taken from the generator, an interval generator similar to that on the Fusebox, and a 24dB filter akin to that of the Pro One. It even has the same delay circuit from the new Maximus.
There are 3 types of pin for the pin matrix with resistances of 0 ohms on the black pin 10k ohms on the red one and blue giving a value of 100k, which allows for more flexibility in attenuating the signals you patch. Tom told us that Ample is particularly suited to percussion, with its snappy filter, and various clock sources available, and though Ample is in a desktop format, Tom has given us plenty of space between the controls so no accidental knob bumping can occur.
Available October 23
Ample Price: around £2000 plus vat
4. Synthfest UK 23: Expert Sleepers - Analogue Modules
At Synthfest UK 2023, we had the chance to chat with Os from Expert Sleepers, known for their versatile digital modules. However, Os has been exploring the analog side of modular synthesis and has introduced a range of eight analog modules.
Among the analog modules, Os showcased a squelchy filter, oscillators with unconventional sine wave cores, and an intriguing octave fuzz effect. He emphasized that these analog modules offer a different approach to sound generation and signal processing compared to their digital counterparts. Os also pointed out that once an analog module is designed and built, it's a finished product, offering a sense of completeness that's distinct from the continuous updates often associated with digital modules.
Expert Sleepers Analogue modules Prices: from £159
5. Synthfest UK 23: Yamaha - DM3 - Super Compact Digital Mixer
At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with Chris from Yamaha to take a look at their latest offering, the DM3 digital mixer. This compact 16-input mixer packs some impressive features into a small footprint, making it suitable for a variety of applications. With a focus on pro audio and audio versatility, the DM3 boasts brand-new microphone preamps inspired by Yamaha's high-end CL and QL series, ensuring top-notch audio quality. Operating at 96 kHz, the DM3 offers pristine audio resolution.
We have to admit, we're all Gassing for this one...
The DM3 boasts a touchscreen interface, complemented by touch-and-turn knobs for tactile control. This innovative combination allows users to efficiently navigate and control the mixer's parameters. The DM3 can also serve as an audio interface, providing 18 in and 18 out over USB, making it an excellent choice for recording and streaming applications. With a compact and portable design, this mixer is versatile enough for live gigs, corporate events, podcasting, and studio work.
DM3 Standard Model Price: Around £1,500
DM3 Dante-Enabled Price: Around £2,000
6. Synthfest UK 23: Tone Science - Triple Cross - Chance Delay
At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with Ian Boddy from DIN Records, known for his prolific work in the electronic music scene. While DIN Records is celebrating its 25th anniversary next year, Ian has expanded his creative endeavors with the release of two modules under the sub-label Tone Science in collaboration with AJH Synth. The Triple Cross module offers versatile signal manipulation capabilities, enabling crossfading, morphing, panning, with non-synchronous LFOs and DC-coupled outputs. The Chance Delay module introduces a unique concept of probability-driven gate delay. Musicians can control the likelihood of triggers passing through, allowing for rhythmically intricate and ever-changing sequences. These modules are designed to enhance the performative aspect of modular synthesis, providing musicians with dynamic tools for evolving soundscapes and rhythmic complexity.
Triple Cross Price: £260
Chance Delay Price: £175
7. Synthfest UK 23: 1010 Music - Bluebox Eurorack Edition
At Synthfest UK 2023, we had the opportunity to chat with Steve from 1010 Music about their latest creation, the Bluebox Eurorack Edition. This module was born out of customer demand, as users of the original Blue Box desktop unit clamored for a Eurorack-compatible version. The Bluebox Eurorack Edition packs all the power and versatility of the desktop version but with a few key differences. It offers mono inputs and outputs that can be combined into stereo, six CV inputs for mapping to various parameters, and two dedicated USB-C ports—one for MIDI and the other for USB audio. This means you can connect your Blue Box to a Mac, PC, or iPad, send and receive audio tracks, and still record all 12 tracks, plus a master track and two effects sends, separately on a micro SD card. An upcoming firmware update will also bring stereo audio in both directions to the Blue Box Desktop Edition, offering even more flexibility in routing and recording. With its compact 30 HP size and thoughtful design, the Bluebox Eurorack Edition also offers a clock output bridging the gap between hardware and software seamlessly.
At Synthfest UK 2023, we had a conversation with Tim from Nonlinear Labs, the creators of the highly expressive C15 synthesizer. Tim shared some exciting updates that have recently been implemented with the inclusion of LFOs via looping envelopes providing musicians with more sonic versatility. The C15's unique concept, based on a two-operator FM synthesis engine, remains intact, but these new LFO capabilities expand its sonic palette. Tim also showcased the expanded key tracking options, which can stretch pitches to create unique tonal textures. Furthermore, he highlighted the new twin-engine feature, which allows for cascading delays and creating captivating stereo soundscapes. Tim also hinted at future developments that owners of this expressive synthesizer can look forward to.
C15 Black Price: 4,300 Euros (incl. VAT)
C15 Cherry Wood Price: 4,750 Euros (incl. VAT)
9. Synthfest UK 23: Kenton - LNDX Midi Line Driver
At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with John from Kenton Electronics to check out their latest offering, the LNDX Line Driver, a handy solution for extending MIDI signals over long distances. Designed to address the challenges of maintaining stable MIDI connections in large venues and studios, the Line Driver utilizes Cat5 cables to transmit MIDI signals up to an impressive 500 meters. It's an ideal tool for live gigs in massive stadiums or situations where the control center is far from the performance area. The Line Driver features LEDs to monitor both the incoming and outgoing MIDI signals, providing essential feedback for troubleshooting and ensuring signal integrity. This straightforward and robust solution adds reliability to any MIDI setup, whether it's in the music industry, broadcasting, or even unconventional applications like flight simulators. With its opto-isolation and straightforward connectivity, the Line Driver is set to become an essential tool for professionals seeking rock-solid MIDI signal transmission over long distances.
LNDR pair Price: £127.92
10. Synthfest UK 23: Sweet Discrete - Synth Panel Restoration
At Synthfest UK 2023, we had a chat with Craig from Sweet Discrete, a company specializing in unique synth restoration and custom creations. Craig showcased their latest endeavor, which goes beyond their well-known synth overlays. Sweet Discrete has taken on the ambitious task of restoring classic synths like the Jupiter 8 to their former glory. These aren't just simple restorations; they're meticulous, artisanal processes, involving lead loading to remove rust and imperfections, followed by precise silkscreening. What's more, Sweet Discrete manufactures exact replica shells for various synth models, offering three versions for the Jupiter 8 alone. They've even delved into MIDI mods for the Jupiter 8, bringing modern convenience to these vintage gems.
Beyond their cosmetic work, Sweet Discrete is exploring the possibility of delving into electronics and design for synthesizers. With a keen focus on quality and precision, they're making a name for themselves in the world of synth restoration and custom solutions. To learn more about their offerings and explore the range of products, visit their website
"We present a three-way comparison between the original Octave CAT, the Behringer CAT, and Cherry Audio's Octave CAT. It is, if you will, a 'Triple CAT Shootout' 😹🎹. We'll run a series of simple tests on all three instruments and observe the similarities and differences.
0:00 Introduction
0:46 About the tests
1:32 VCO 1 Sawtooth
2:15 VCO 2 Square (fixed duty cycle)
2:57 VCO 1 Pulse with manual Pulse-width Modulation
3:50 VCF cutoff sweep with low Q
4:27 VCF cutoff sweep with high Q
4:54 VCF with envelope-modulated cutoff frequency
5:20 More complex tone (all waveforms, VCF cutoff modulation)
5:57 Patch from Episode 500
6:29 That little riff that we always play in demos
6:54 Conclusion
Please also check out our detailed demos of each instrument individually!
"The fourth and final segment of our journey along US 50, the 'Loneliest Road in America'. We pick up where we left off in Ely, Nevada and head east until we cross the border into Utah. Along the way, we pick up concurrencies with US 93 and US 6, making this final segment a little less "lonely" than the previous three.
Original soundtrack by Amanda Chaudhary, featuring the following instruments: Cherry Audio Octave CAT, Elka X, Novachord, GX-80, Stardust 201 Delay Universal Audio Electra 88 piano Arturia Pigments, CMI V, Phaser Bi-Tron, LX-24 reverb Korg modwave Strymon Starlab EastWest Ra
Drums by G Calvin Weston (soundscaperecordinglab.com)
00:00 Introduction 01:22 Leaving Ely with US 6 and US 93 05:05 Music changes as we cross a mountain range 07:41 US 93 departs 11:00 Going around Great Basin National Park 13:38 The final stretch 15:55 Crossing into Utah
"Part 3 of our epic journey along US Highway 50 in Nevada, dubbed "The Loneliest Road in America". This segment starts at a cool themed US 50 sign just east of Eureka and ends in the historic downtown of Ely, by far the largest town we have encountered since leaving Fallon ahead of segment 1. The music for this long drive goes back and forth between a heavy post-bop jazz style and an rhythmic ambient electronic track.
Jazz segments feature drums by G Calvin Weston and keyboards/electronics by Amanda Chaudhary, including: Arturia Vox V, Emulator II V Cherry Audio Solovox, Stardust 201 UAD Electra 88 EastWest Fab Four (bass), Stormdrum (prepared piano) AudioThing Wires Mutable Instruments Plaits Strymon Starlab Buchla Red Panel 158 and 156m
Electronic segments performed by Amanda Chaudhary using: Tracktion BioTek Cherry Audio GX-80, Elka X Tracktion/Dawesome Abyss EastWest Stormdrum Arturia Filter SEM
"Part 2 of of several videos covering our epic trip along US Highway 50 in Nevada, dubbed "The Loneliest Road in America". In this segment, we head west the town of Austin (in Lander County) towards the two of Eureka, the eponymous county seat of Eureka County. In the wide valley west of Eureka, we encountered a major rainstorm and had to pause the video, which resumed when we got to the town.
If you haven't yet seen Part 1, we recommend checking that out first: [posted here]
Original music by Amanda Chaudhary in 5/4 (10/8) using the following instruments: Cherry Audio: Sines, Octave CAT, and Harmonia Arturia: Pigments (2 instances, Mellotron V, Delay BRIGADE Modular: Metasonix R54 Supermodule, Synthesis Technology E350 Morphing Terrarium, 4MS Spectral Multiband Resonator EastWest: Fantasy Brass, Hollywood Orchestra Gold (double bass), Reverb (Davies Hall SF)
Original patches on Pigments, Mellotron V, and Harmonia.
00:00 Introduction 00:11 Beginning at Austin, Nevada 04:45 Descending from the mountains into the wide valley 10:00 The storm approaches 10:21 Resuming in Eureka, Nevada
