Tiptop Audio Officially Releases ART Line of Eurorack Modules

via Tiptop Audio

"Today, we are celebrating the release of the first set of ART-equipped modules, marking the first time this technology is ready for purchase. We are starting with the release of the ATX1 Analog VCO, Vortex Digital OSC, Octopus USB/MIDI interface, ART V/OCT Quantizer, and Control Path dual analog envelopes plus VCA.

On our website, we have dedicated the ART landing page as the knowledge base HQ for ART. There, you will find plenty of educational videos, module video manuals, and uploaded video playlists of music filmed during beta testing. ART is simple to use and easy to understand, and with those videos, we made sure all aspects and potential misinformation have been addressed. Additionally, more information is in the process of being added in the coming days for both DIY enthusiasts and module makers on how to implement ART, including a free reference design that adds ART to Mutable Instruments Braids and Plaits.

The creative process of making music on a modular synthesizer is a unique tactile and aural experience. With ART modules, we are entering the territory of tunable instruments and polyphonic multi-timbral compositions but with the sound design power and immediate interface of a modular synthesizer. The initial release focuses on the mono VCOs that you can use to build voices quickly or combine for discrete polyphony. Very soon, we will extend the lineup with the fully polyphonic ART modules and the release of the Polytip patch cable."

Individual modules below. Systems:

Pictured Top: The Analog Bundle S1 $945 Save 33%

Middle: The Analog Bundle S2 $999 Save 33%

Bottom: Vortex 6, Octostages Poly Envelope, Octapass Poly Filter, Octagain


ART Demo Videos

ART Beta Testing recordings


ART Essentials


ART modules video manuals


Demo patches, tips for sound design

ATX1

A classic all analog saw VCO core with 3 switchable modes, ART, 1V/Oct, LFO and is recommended as the basic building block for ART systems. It is designed for patching analog polyphonic synths from discrete modules or multi-mono patches in ART mode. When using ART the ATX1 takes care of the tuning including accounting for temperature changes. In 1V/Oct mode the ATX1 runs as a standard old school modular VCO. LFO mode drops the frequency range and is great for patching vibrato to other ATX1s among other things. The ATX1 outputs variable waveshapes with manual or CV control. Classic FM, PWM and hard sync are provided. A dedicated Gate Out in ART mode manages the voice envelopes or any modulation synced to that voice. We consider the ATX1 the best sounding analog VCO we ever created.

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New Doepfer A-127 BOM Filter Breakout Module

via PatchPierre.NET via Pierre on The MATRIXSYNTH Lounge

"For early summer 2014 the A-127 breakout module is planned.
This expansion module offers these new functions:
- additional notch filter for each sub-unit
- separate outputs for lowpass, highpass, bandpass and notch for each sub-unit
- separate audio input with attenuator for each sub-unit

The breakout module allows the separate use of each of the three A-127 filters.
In addition the filters can be patched parallel or serial.
Especially the serial connection of three notches generates very complex phasing-like structures.
For parallel filter connection the existing mixer of the main module may be used or an external mixer.
For serial connection the filters are patched in the desired sequence at the breakout module.
A jumper is used to define the filter type for each sub-unit for the mix unit of the main module.

Remark:
The breakout module can be used without modification only in combination with the new version of the A-127 (pcb printing "Version 4").
Only the new version has the expansion connector available, that is required to connect the breakout module.
It's also possible to combine the breakout module with older versions of the A-127 (versions 1, 2 and 3) but in this case soldering is required to connect the breakout module to the main module (soldering 4 wires to each filter unit).

We will publish corresponding modification instructions as soon as the breakout module will be available."

72 knobs, 12 buttons, 30 setups and snapshots: Faderfox's innovative PC12 MIDI controller

Published on Nov 20, 2017 loopop

"Faderfox have released their "New Module" series, with the PC12, a smart, programmable MIDI controller with plenty of power and control.

Faderfox can be found here:
http://www.faderfox.de/pc12.html

Also shown in this clip are the Novation Circuit, Microsoft Surface Pro 4, and stands by Cremacaffe Design."

"PC12 as successor of the PC44 is a universal controller for all kinds of Midi controllable hard- and software.

You can combine two or more NEW MODULE devices to create a large system. The connections are on the right side to allow a back to back placing of two or more devices. Connect two NEW MODULES by a special extension port.

Furthermore there are 4 Midi-ports and one USB-port with various routing possibilities.

It is packed in a alu case with the same dimensions like the famous ELEKTRON devices so it’s a great extension for these devices. But you can use the pot controller also with your DAW like a classical 12-track-mixer.

The device has 72 standard pots and 12 buttons in a 12-track-layout, Various kinds of midi commands like control change, note on/off, pitchbend, aftertouch and program change are possible. You can program every Midi command for every separate control on the device very fast and easily.

Of course you can assign the pots and keys to any of these commands by learning incoming Midi commands, which is the same procedure you know from your software / DAW. The pots work with standard resolution of 7 bit to have full compatibility to any software and hardware instrument, effect and DAW. Use the internal 30 setups to save your individual settings. Backup and restore of all settings by sysex dumps is possible too.


The factory settings are perfect to control music and video software products out of the box if they are freely assignable. So any additional device programming isn’t necessary for many applications.

Some special setups are preconfigured for use with ELEKTRON RYTM and ABLETON LIVE.

Check out this amazing power box and you will get a reliable mate..."

Price

475 Euro (incl. VAT)
399 Euro (excl. VAT)

Feature list below.

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touchAble Mini - Control Ableton Live with iPhone & iPod touch

Published on Feb 11, 2014 TouchAble App·37 videos

"touchAble, the popular Ableton Live controller app for iPad, now released for iPhone and iPod touch, 9,99 US$ / 8,99 euros special introductory price.

Available on the iTunes App Store: touchAble Mini - AppBC

Taking advantage of the complete rewritten code of its big brother touchAble 2 for iPad, touchAble Mini offers a tight, flexible workflow that can be adjusted to suit any Ableton Live users needs, in a very portable format, making it the most appropriated controller for Live in any circumstances.
The App has been perfectly shrunk down to fit the size of the screens found on the iPhone and iPod touch, and some elements such as the Main menu have been specially redesigned to provide a quick access to all the functionalities provided in this powerful pocket version. Combined with its strong integration in Live, its six different modules (Clips, Mixer, Devices, Keys, Pads, XY Pad) and a MDI Clip Editor, touchAble Mini covers every control element of Live's session view in a very compact and elegant Interface.
touchAble Mini is designed to provide a powerful, intuitive, reliable and portable multitouch control solution for professional use.


touchAble Mini for iPhone & iPod touch offers:
• Direct Access to Live's Library: Exclusive to Live 9 users, touchAble allows users to browse through your library and add Audio effects, MIDI effects, Max-for-live devices and Live instruments to the track without having to touch your computer.
• Powerful MIDI clip editing capabilities: Developed for the touchscreen, the MIDI Editor allows for Live's MIDI clips and patterns fast editing directly from your iPhone or iPod touch, complete with a set of powerful midi editing tools.The Drum Mode makes it easy to lay down a drum loop, while the Chord Mode allows for precise note placements and lengths.
• Complete control of Ableton Live Session View: Launch Clips and Scenes, Solo and arm tracks. Fold/unfold group tracks. Access to any position in the set with the Overview feature. Create or delete Tracks, Scenes, Clips and even stop buttons - without ever touching the Computer.
• Smart Mixing tools: touchAble's Mixer lets you adjust Volumes, Sends and Pans, control the Crossfader section, and display all the values required including a very accurate level meter system. The intuitive snap mode and multiple controls per track make it the perfect tool for live performances as well as studio-use.
• Control of Live Devices, VSTs and Audiounits. : Intelligent Controls adapt to the type of control used in Live. Easy access and auto-mapping. Snap and Combo mode allow for quick control changes in Live situations. The interface makes navigation between banks or tracks very easy.
• MIDI Instruments: Users can play their favorite instrument banks, samples and VSTI with the Piano Keyboard or the Drumpad. Each of them include several performance features: switch the Scale, pitchweel, enable note-repeat or aftertouch or change the current octave & velocity. See what you are playing : Drum pads display and update name of slots. Create fantastic chord progressions and beautiful melodies with In-Key mode.
• Advanced XY Pad Module: The XY Pad gives you hands-on control of the effects applied; you can manually mix and match up to 12 parameters with 4 dots. Gravity Parameters on each of the dots let you create natural and interesting effects. Take Snapshots and restore them in an instant - or morph between them synced to the tempo. Quickly create complex LFO and automations using the intuitive gesture recorder. Use the Instant Mode for quick effects on the fly similar to the Kaoss Pad.
• Easy and reliable connection: The touchAble server provides a very fast and reliable wireless connection between the iPhone or iPod touch and the computer running Ableton Live, for both Mac and PC systems. It does not require any 3rd party software. Connecting to Ableton is very quick and easy.
• Combine several touchAble sessions: Run an unlimited number of iPhones, iPads, iPads Mini and iPods with touchAble at the same time. Use touchAble Mini anywhere as your main controller of Ableton live, or run on as many iPads as you want simultaneously, allowing for enhanced control of multiple modules and multiple devices all at once.
• MIDI hardware connection: Combine the best of physical touch with the efficiency of multitouch screen by using the Apple camera connection kit usb adapter or any other MIDI interface for Apple IOS to plug a MIDI hardware controller into your iPhone or iPod touch. touchAble Mini can map several control functions such as Devices controllers, menus and module switches, providing the ultimate level of interaction."

New WMD eurorack module announcement - OSD

video by WMDevices

"OSD, aka OR SUM DIF, is 3 independent blocks of useful utility in 4HP.

OSD is centered around combining voltage in useful ways. Audio, V/Oct, and control voltage are at home in this utility. OSD offers a fully DC coupled signal path with precision components to make this happen. High quality, configurability, and compact size ensure OSD will always find it's way into your patch.

- Combine v/Oct sequences with precision summing, or enable the the precision OR circuit for completely different results.

- Mix two envelopes or an envelope and lfo using sum to create large accented voltages or combine with OR to keep the output in the original range.

- Crossfade between audio or control voltage using the potentiometer in block one. Setting DIF will invert the signal at the B jack."


WMD OSD (OR / SUM / DIF) - in depth demo / tutorial

"In this video we cover the basics of Or, Sum, and Difference logic types and how they might be useful in a eurorack modular synthesizer performance system.

00:25​ Skip the intro (module overview)
01:07​ Logic Explanation
04:10​ Patching with OSD"

KORG Introduces Little Bits - Magnetically Snappable Modular Synth

Litttlebits * korg

Published on Nov 3, 2013 Sota TOSHIYOSHI·2 videos
Update: module list & more added below.

Update2: I thought the following was an interesting note from PatchPierre of PatchPierre.Net on The MATRIXSYNTH Lounge: "Assuming all LittleBits can interact, the connections with the already existing bits look the most interesting to me. For example: theremin-like creations with http://littlebits.cc/bits/light-sensor. and projects with http://littlebits.cc/bits/bend-sensor and http://littlebits.cc/bits/pressure-sensor"

This was supposed to embargoed until November 8th, but it looks like the little bits are out of the box. Below are some shots via lhuga on Flickr and some initial details.   Some of you might remember Little Bits from previous posts (see the LittleBits channel for more). LittleBits was created by Ayah Bdeir. You can see her in this video. The first post went up back on August 12, 2008. I always wondered if more synth bits would be coming. Thanks to KORG it looks like they have.

The price for the kit appears to be 16,000 Yen which translates to roughly $162 US.

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New Evaton Technologies Link - Eurorack HDMI CV Module & Sneak Peak of Upcoming "Sonar" Module

Evaton Link Module 2-up Jam w/Morgantics Published on Apr 19, 2018 Russ Hoffman

"Morgantics stopped by to jam out on a pair of synths connected together with the new Link module coming soon from Evaton Technologies."

via Evaton Technologies:

"Link is a 4HP Eurorack synth module that enables connecting up to 18 CV/audio signals between two Eurorack cases over a single standard HDMI cable. Link is a 100% passive module, and allows signals to travel in either direction.

10 mono jacks and 14 stereo jacks combine into a single HDMI connection to another Link module in either a second Eurorack case, or simply to another place in the same case, for convenience.

The top 4 jacks are stereo, but those can each be broken out into two mono signals with an optional breakout cable, enabling up to 18 CV/audio signals to be easily connected to another synth, in just 4HP of front panel space.

Above is a quick video showing how the Link module can be used to allow a friend to stop by and you can hook your Eurorack synths together for a fun night of jamming! (There's also a sneak peek at the upcoming Evaton Technologies "Sonar" module in the video, too...)


A 5U version is also planned, which will allow easy connection between 5U and Eurorack systems, as well as within a large 5U system.

Link will be available Summer of 2018, and a pre-production prototype will be on display at Superbooth 2018.

http://www.evatontechnologies.com/link

Sonar, a module which generates CV and clocks based on ultrasonic rangefinding measurements, will be available later this year, and will also be on display as a prototype at Superbooth18. Sonar is still in development; look for an official announcement with full list of features soon."

YAMAHA EX7 61 Key Synthesizer Workstation Keyboard SN PP01004

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this auction

An underrated synth although it does lack the Virtual Acoustic (VL) Synthesis of the EX5. It did have FDSP (Formulated Digital Sound Processing) Synthesis which I don't believe I have ever explored.

Details:

"The EX7 features a unique Extended Synthesis system which incorporates a number of the most advanced tone generator technologies currently available...plus a full-featured sampling system. It offers a Four-Element Voice structure which allows for up to four independent waves from any of the tone generators. The tone generators implemented here include AWM (Advanced Wave Memory) Synthesis, AN (Analog Physical Modeling) Synthesis and FDSP (Formulated Digital Sound Processing) Synthesis. According to Yamaha:

"AWM is Yamaha's original system for effectively using sampled waveforms in synthesizers and tone generators. The strength of AWM synthesis lies not only in its extraordinary ability to "shape" and control the sound of the samples with a comprehensive system of envelope generators, filters, key scaling parameters, modulation, and more. AWM voices can have from 1 to 4 AWM elements. Each AWM element can use a preset wave or a sampled waveform. The ability to combine AWM elements means that you can, for example, combine separate samples for the attack and sustain portions of an instrument's sound, with independent control over each.

Yamaha AN Synthesis (Analog Physical Modeling) offers all the benefits of traditional analog synthesis with the stability, reproducability, and precise control of digital technology. It is capable of accurately reproducing the sound of classic analog synthesizers without patch cables, setting charts, or the frustrating instability that was the bane of the analog age. A standard (Poly) AN voice can have 1 AN element and from 1 to 3 AWM elements. Classic analog synth type sounds can be created with the single AN element alone. AWM elements can be added as necessary to 'modernize' the sound.

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Kaivo: A Brief Introduction

video upload by Madrona Labs

"techniques (physical modeling and granular synthesis) in an easy-touse semi-modular package. It’s laid out a bit like an acoustic instrument; the GRANULATOR module acts like the player’s touch, exciting one or more tuned objects (here, the RESONATOR module, based on physical models of resonant objects) that come together in a central resonating body (the BODY module, also physics-based)."

Physical Modeling in Kaivo

video upload by Sormena Project

"Last but not least we look at Kaivo. Kaivo is what I call experimental physical modeling. The instrument itself is fully customizable (modular) and when you combine that with a granular sound engine and a physical modeling section you’re going to get some wild results. As you’ll see in the video what you select for the resonator and for the body (the physical modeled modules) has a huge impact on the final timbre that’s produced. Note that unlike PianoTeq or String Studio this instrument requires you to use samples. Therefore physical modeling is just one aspect of this instrument and is used more like an effect that you can blend to taste rather than a dedicated method."

Granular Synthesis | Explanation & Tutorial

video upload by Sounds Good

"I try to figure out all the things that granular synths can do with the help of the granular synth daddy himself, Barry Truax.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
0:00 Intro
2:05 Time Stretching
5:09 Barry Truax's Granular Synth
7:49 What Is Granular Synthesis Actually
12:25 Outro"

Kaivo - Presets and Dials

video upload by Madrona Labs

"Overview of Kaivo's Presets and Dials

Kaivo is a software instrument combining two powerful synthesis techniques (physical modeling and granular synthesis) in an easy-touse semi-modular package. It’s laid out a bit like an acoustic instrument; the GRANULATOR module acts like the player’s touch, exciting one or more tuned objects (here, the RESONATOR module, based on physical models of resonant objects) that come together in a central resonating body (the BODY module, also physics-based)."

BiZMUTH WoNky DRuMs

Published on Feb 20, 2019 Helmut

"The faster you turn the knob the faster it sends gates."

Not this is the first BiZMUTH post on the site, although Helmut has been featured before. We have a new maker on the site!

via BiZMUTH Modular

"Bizmuth is a gesture based chaotic signal router and gate generator. You can route switch or combine up to six signals, or generate up to six gates by turning three endless knobs with one hand.Small tweaks can have large effects on routing or gates, giving the module a very tactile and chaotic feel.

If you are into noise, glitch, sound design, or chaos, Bizmuth is a great tool for you on stage and in the studio.

The module has three identical switches with three IO Jacks each: A, B and C. All operate according to the same four step connection sequence: A B C, A-B C, A-B-C, A B-C, and so on. A dash (-) indicates a connection

As you turn a knob, the connection sequence of the corresponding switch advances and new connections appear between the three IO jacks. The connection sequence repeats 24 times in one full 360 revolution. That means you have a different patch every 3.75 degrees. Tight! In the graphic on the right you can see the connection sequence in quarter resolution for clarity.

All jacks are bi-directional, which means you can use them as inputs and outputs as well. For example, you can route a signal from the B IO jack to A, A and C, or just C, just like you can route two signals from A and/or C to B. Here you can see a simplified graphic from the switch sequence. In the actual sequence there are four times as many switch positions.

Bizmuth has three preexisting connections also known as normalisations, which help you to realize more complex routing and to generate gates. All B IO jacks are normalised from top to bottom, and if a 16 pin power connector is plugged in, 5V is normalised to the top switches B IO jack. The actual gate out voltage is 4.8V

That means, that as long as you don’t plug a cable in a B IO jack, it will be connected to the B IO jack abowe, or 5V if it’s the top one. Try leaving all B IOs empty and patch any A or C IO to a gate or trigger input! Turn the knob of the switch and notice the gates! A total of 6 gates can be generated if you use all A andC IOs."

How Not to Fry Your Modular Gear & 7 Semi-Modular Ideas, Tips and Tricks for Synths

7 Semi-Modular ideas, tips and tricks for synths like MatrixBrute, Mother-32, MiniBrute 2 and more Published on Jul 11, 2018

1:00 TIP #1: Safely connecting CV to the Expression inputs of synths and guitar pedals using a floating ring cable

6:45 TIP #2: Using external envelopes to vary your synth sounds

9:25 TIP #3: Using MIDI to CV for sound layering and external control

11:45 TIP #4: Modular sequencing

15:05 TIP #5: Extending your sequencer with internal patching

16:55 TIP #6: Combining multiple mod sources

18:40 TIP #7: Adding external modular effects

Here's the clip I reference in my video: [embed further below]

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Richard Lainhart - Bellingham Electronic Arts Festival Lecture & Performance

Slideshow of Richard Lainhart's lecture at the Bellingham Electronic Arts Festival (BEAF), Friday, May 6, 2:PM PST, 2011 (mentioned in this post). Below is a video of the Buchla and Haken Continuum portion of the lecture followed by a performance of Olivier Messiaen's Oraison written for the ondes Martenot at the 48:00 mark (see this post for the original version and this post for another performance by Richard). You will notice Richard makes references to earlier parts of the lecture. These included his training on the CEMS modular synthesizer system and the ondes Martenot (don't miss this post and this post on the CEMS). See the labels at the bottom of this post for more info on each. I will upload those videos at a later date. They were background to Richard's experience with early modular synthesizers and controllers that eventually lead him to the Buchla and Haken Continuum. It was a great lecture and I hope you enjoy it. Be sure to bookmark this one. I also want to thank Richard Lainhart for doing lectures like these. They are a rare treat.


YouTube Uploaded by matrixsynth on May 19, 2011

The following is a full transcript. BTW, if anyone is interested in transcription services, let me know.

"RICHARD LAINHART: BUCHLA AND HAKEN CONTINUUM LECTURE

Speaker: Richard Lainhart
Lecture Date: May 6, 2011
Lecture Time: 2:00 p.m. PST
Location: Western Washington University
Event: Bellingham Electronic Arts Festival 2011 (BEAF)
Length: Digital AVI recording; 57 minutes 32 seconds

[Beginning of recorded material]

Richard Lainhart: Okay. What I want to do now is actually talk a little bit about the system itself here and about the design of the system and explain what's actually happening here and why it's designed this way, and again, my focus on, on expression. So this is, as I mentioned, this is the Buchla 200E. This is a current electronic music instrument that is still being made now by Buchla. Don Buchla again was a contemporary, or is a contemporary of Bob Moog, and he took a very different path than Moog did. And one of the reasons I think that Moog's instruments became so popular, of course the Mini Moog was like the first real break-out electronic music synthesizer, was that Moog's instruments had keyboards on them. They had black and white keyboards. And you could use them to play, you could use them to play rock and roll with them basically because you could plug them into a really loud amplifier and it could be louder than a guitar. And it could be a bass, you know, it could be louder than a bass and all that sort of stuff. And of course a lot of, you know, a lot of wonderful music was made with that instrument.

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ROTOR - Tangible Modular Music Synth From the Creators of Reactable Now Available

iTunes:
ROTOR - Tangible Modular Music Synth - Reactable Systems SL

Preview video posted here.

"(50% OFF Launch price - Regular price: $19.99)

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PRECISION VOLTAGES & A SEQUENCER - Creating note intervals/chords during a sequence/performance

video upload by AJH Synth Official

"A short performance showing the PRECISION VOLTAGES module by AJH SYNTH to alter the tuning of VCO's, in this case whilst running a sequence from a pattern/step sequencer. This is really useful for introducing pre-tuned note intervals between oscillators, even to create simple chords, adding a whole new dimension of interest to pattern-based performances.

The module can be used to add or subtract multiple octaves or semitones from incoming CV signals, which in itself has a wide range of uses, but it can also generate fixed voltages, either to create continuous VCO pitches, or for adding offsets to CV signals for modulation, etc. It can even be used to combine CV signals, but more about the in the future 'User Guide' video for the module.

I'm using a Doepfer Dark Time sequencer as 2 separate 8-step sequencers. The output of this sequencer can be transposed by MIDI, so I'm using the Keystep simply as a MIDI keyboard for this purpose, but the actual sequencing is from the Dark Time.

Check out the AJH Synth playlists for module 'User Guides', and 'Patch of The Week' videos, which will be either performances or 'how to' guides, detailing functions/methods, and a range of sounds, some familiar, some less so, containing a patch sheet at the end to show you how to construct it for yourself.

DreamsOfWires"

Erica Synths SUPERBOOTH19 Announcements

"Erica Synths have prepared a lot of new products to present at this years Superbooth in Berlin. 13 new modules and... a new system! You read it right.

And this isn't even all that we have planned to release in the rest of 2019

Reminding that you can find us at the first floor lobby, booth E245.
Just look for all black everything!

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Tiptop Audio Introduces New MIX7 Analog Summing Mixer Eurorack Module

"MIX7 is a seven channel analog summing mixer module for Eurorack. It is designed for summing any of the different types of signals you’ll find in a modular system: Audio, CV, Triggers, or Gate.

MIX7 gives ability to sweeten your mix with more headroom using the power of low noise analog summing. A compact 3HP Eurorack utility module, MIX7 is an attractive mixing addition to any rig, especially with the ability to also combine rhythms, note patterns or CV automations from different control sources. The main output of one section can be connected to the input of another MIX7 to create larger mixing groups and complex signal routes inside your modular.

The MIX7 summing mixing circuit is built with low-noise operational amplifiers, giving it an excellent sound quality for mixing audio, the beautiful texture of classic analog mixing with plenty of headroom to handle hot modular signals, and the versatility to sum non-audio signals in your system to open up new creative possibilities.

Each input is labeled with a number of dots, 1-7, yellow for input and green for output. The module matches Tiptop’s system look with clean white faceplate styling.

At the back of the module is a user-configurable jumper allowing users to configure the MIX7 for either unity gain (OUT = IN) or give increased headroom (OUT = 0.4IN) for use with hot audio signals, which makes it a great pairing for Tiptop Audio percussive modules. A peak indicator light on the front panel warns the user of even the slightest audio clipping in the mix, helping to keep all the incoming sound sources at their full original quality."

http://tiptopaudio.com/mix7-analog-summing-mixer

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Neutron Sound's Dust of Time - The Crash Course

Synth Diy Guy

Update: Build video added below followed by some module details and pics.

"What can I say, this module is like 20 awesome modules in one simultaneously.
This is a fairly complete run through all of what it can do.
Check out my build video if you want to build one, and get a panel/PCB set or a prebuilt one here: https://michigansynthworks.com/produc...

INDEX!
Open 0:00
Turning it on 1:24
Catching Pots 1:41
Loading Presets 2:03
Frequency Controls 2:23
Display Navigation 2:32
Connecting a Midi Controller 3:06
VCA and Routing 3:49

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「PASSIVE TOOLS 2」by SYNTHFOX ~overview~

SYNTHFOX Channel

"Overviewing my new passive utility set and its various capabilities! These demos are with plain-simple Doepfer modules for the sake of clarity and simplicity, but of course, one can get way more complicated and unpredictable results using it in more uncommon ways."

https://reverb.com/shop/synthfoxs-boutique

PASSIVE TOOLS 1 by SYNTHFOX is a versatile collection of passive utilities in 4 HP. It consists of 4 signal processors, 3 of which can be musically useful when used with audio, CV and logic/gate signals, and one is intended to be a sound processor.

PASSIVE TOOLS 1 includes four useful submodules:

- MASH is a somewhat esoteric signal interwinder. A passive diode/transistor setup mashes the two signals together, often boosting their slight detunes and mismatches for audio, and creates interesting patterns out of CVs and logic signals. It acts in a manner somewhat similar to ring modulators and the logic XOR output, although the expected result of either is unobtainable from it: instead, you are going to get more unpredictable and surprising results.

- OR is a simple, yet very useful "max" processor. It lets the highest of the two voltages on its inputs pass, while completely blocking the other one. Its main intent is to combine gate signals like an OR logic gate, but it also can be used to select the maximal of the two LFOs, for example, or even mix down two sounds in a weird, weird way.

- M0RE is the least complex part of the module: a simple half wave rectifier lets only the positive half of the wave pass through, while completely blocking the negative portion. Useful for ridding the CV of the negative portion, harmonically enhancing sounds, or converting a bipolar squaerwave-like signals into unipolar gate signals.

- HPF is the only submodule that is intended only for use with audio: it's a simple passive high pass filter with three preset cutoff frequencies. It's an extremely useful and underappreciated audio tool: when it comes to mixing down the patch, nothing is a simpler solution in fixing the frequency overlaps between the bass and mid layer, for example, than a high-pass on the higher sound. It can as well be used to DC decouple sounds that have some voltage offset, or converting gates to tiny pluck-like spikes for pinging the filters.

The module draws no power and comes with 2 M3 mounting screws. NB! The module is assembled on-demand upon purchase, and it takes 1 working day. So, don't worry about the unit not being shipped right the next day - it will be shipped in 3 working days.

New Propellerhead Complex-1 Modular Synthesizer for Reason

Published on Dec 18, 2018 Propellerhead

"Complex-1 is a modular synthesizer from Propellerhead Software, bringing the quirks, freedom and sonic depth of modular synthesis to to your Reason Rack. Boasting a 4x oversampled synthesis engine, a freely routable signal and modulation path and a sound like nothing else, Complex-1 is a synth lover’s dream machine.

If you’re a seasoned modular synth enthusiast, you can dive right in. If this kind synth is new to you, it can look a bit daunting, but it’s actually surprisingly easy to get going. Load up any of the included patches to get you going, and start your sonic exploration there. Nothing can break, and if things go weird (like, in a bad way), there’s the undo button to your rescue.

Most people associate modular synths with lab coats and glitchy noise soundscapes, but if all you want is a beefy bass - let Complex-1 surprise you. Its modular madness aside, it’s also a really awesome-sounding synthesizer, capable of perfectly playable instrument sounds and yes, beefy basses too.

The modules in Complex-1 bring a mix of modular synth ideologies to the Reason Rack. The Complex Oscillator, Low Pass Gates and Shaper modules, build on the works on Don Buchla (or West Coast style) and the regular Oscillator and ladder design Filter module, derive more from the Bob Moog school of synth design. Combine them anyway you like and craft your very own unique synth sounds.

If you’re a seasoned modular synth enthusiast, you can dive right in. If this kind synth is new to you, it can look a bit daunting, but it’s actually surprisingly easy to get going. Load up any of the included patches to get you going, and start your sonic exploration there. Nothing can break, and if things go weird (like, in a bad way), there’s the undo button to your rescue.

Most people associate modular synths with lab coats and glitchy noise soundscapes, but if all you want is a beefy bass - let Complex-1 surprise you. Its modular madness aside, it’s also a really awesome-sounding synthesizer, capable of perfectly playable instrument sounds and yes, beefy basses too.

Features
- Fully-featured modular synthesizer
- Complex Oscillator
- Analog Oscillator
- Noise Generator
- Wave Shaper
- Comb Delay
- Ladder-style filter
- 2x Low pass gates
- LFO
- 3x mix modules
- Lag module
- 3x Scale & Amp modules
- ADSR envelope
- Output mixer
- Built-in sequencer with note quantizer
- Function module
- Reverb/Echo module
- Oscilloscope module
- Connects CV or audio to the rest of the Reason Rack
- Comes with over 200 expertly crafted patches to get you going

Please note that Complex-1 Modular Synthesizer requires Reason 10.1 or later"

M-Audio Venom Review and Interview with Product Manager Taiho Yamada

A quick note: This review is long. You can jump to sections that interest you vs. reading it straight through if you prefer. This review focuses primarily on the synth engine for one single patch on the Venom. The Venom supports Multi mode with up to four multitimbral parts. Not only can you layer sound programs but you can set global parameters for the set. Be sure to see the Multi mode section of "Tips and Tricks via Taiho Yamada" at the end of this post. Taiho is the Lead Project Manager of the Venom and served as my contact during the review. I want to thank Taiho for his help and enthusiastic generosity. He is a true synthesist and the Venom is his baby.

Synth connections: Taiho previously worked at Alesis on the Andromeda A6. The DSP developer of the Venom worked on Radikal Technologies' Spectralis and the Accelerator. People that contributed to the presets via sound design include Richard Devine, Francis Preve, Mark Ovenden (Avid's AIR Instruments, ProTools VIs), Joerg Huettner (Waldorf, Access, Alesis), and of course Taiho Yamada.

*Don't miss the "Q&A with Taiho" section towards the end of the review. Also keep an eye out for "Taiho's Tips and Tricks" throughout the review in grey. You can find the consolidated list below the Q&A section.

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