"I bought the Blukač Instruments Endless Processor this week, and after spending a couple of hours playing around with it I came up with this deep, dubby techno patch, which I’ve broken down in this video.
The basic idea is to create an infinite chord by capturing and layering some simple individual notes from a VCO - in this case the New Systems Instruments Harmonic Shift Oscillator - then sculpting the sound further and adding rhythmic movement by modulating an LPG.
Channel 1, the higher-pitched chord, runs through the Serge Resonant EQ and then Make Noise Optomix, which I’m ‘striking’ with a trigger from the Beatstep Pro. Channel 2, the lower-pitched chord, runs through the Serge VCFQ and into the other channel of Optimix, controlled by an envelope from Joranalogue Contour 1. Both channels get a bit of tape delay from the Zoom MS70CDR pedal. The only other ingredients are some 808 drum sounds and a sine sub-bass, plus a splash of reverb in Ableton.
Please note: this isn’t a sponsored video - I bought the EP myself and have no connection or affiliation with Blukač Instruments; I’m just a fan :)"
ENDLESS PROCESSOR is a dual-channel infinite sound sustainer machine. Put your favorite instruments, unique timbres, or field recordings — virtually any sound — and make it last forever.
It is not a looper in the usual sense - Endless Processor resynthesizes your sounds to create a perfect clickless stream while preserving the timbral and tonal character of the original.
Endless Processor always listens to audio input and keeps a most recent history.
Experiment with sustaining little bits of a sample or make a massive wall of sound with the ability to select how much memorized audio to process.
Stack your sounds to create harmonies, textures, or drones with 5 layers per channel. Each layer can be re-processed or cleared while keeping other ones in place. Set fade-in and fade-out time to quickly or gradually introduce a new layer or remove the existing one. Additional controls will help you to adjust or shape a channel volume (think built-in VCA).
"I thought it would help to document the process of building a complex, evolving drone from scratch on the Endless Processor.
I'm using the wave player algorithm in Disting Mk4 which is loaded with a mixture of spoken word files and various melodic/instrumental samples as the source material for the EP which here is using the alternative firmware that crossfades between layers.
The input from Disting is normalled to both EP inputs so both channels are receiving the same input.
The yellow button samples the input into the current layer of the EP. The Memory pot sets the duration of the sample period. The Layer pot and the Channel switch determine which layer is active. When the layer changes you can see the flash from the small yellow led above the pot.
For much of the time I'm not monitoring the inputs, I'm just catching audio at random. If what I grab doesn't feel right for what I'm doing at that point, I just keep on grabbing until I find something that works. If I want a layer to fade out gracefully to silence I can use the clear button (eg at the end of this recording).
The ENOsc adds some drone reinforcement along the way and the final FX are from the FX Aid.
So, in just 48hp, I think this is a rather formidable, self-contained dronebox that is ideal for spontaneous, live exploration."
"A quick run-through for the Endless Processor from Blukač using the updated firmware.
The beta firmware allows you to chose between stacking or crossfading between sampled layers. Here I'm crossfading between layers sampled from the ENOsc on channel 2 and Strega on channel 1.
Using CV from a fader from 16n to select the layers because its a little more comfortable than the pot on the module.
I think this crossfading option suits me better than the standard, stacked approach. I like how the layers interact when I scan through them. It also allows me to leave blank layers to add breathing spaces within a drone."
"The Endless Processor is best described as a module with five freeze buffers per channel, where the word 'freeze' should translate to a spectrum atmosphere because more memory can be used. It outputs many layers of tones derived from your incoming source, while retaining your source character. For your reference, it compares a bit to an Indian Tanpura where four strings create infinite drones. Sure, it's an exotic module, but I am convinced it will find a way to ambient drone dream composers."
"Legio is a 6HP platform module similar in concept to the Versio modules. Each release is fully compatible with all other Legio firmware and swappable for free through the Noise Engineering Customer Portal.
Open-source support through libDaisy is coming soon.
The first two modules on the Legio platform are available on June 23rd, with more coming soon!
0:08 Virt Iter Legio
By popular demand! First announced in 2020, Virt Iter Legio is a three-algorithm stereo oscillator with stereo phase modulation inputs and a vintage-inspired chorus. Love the NE oscillators on the Arturia MicroFreak or the Virt Vereor plugin? Just need it in Eurorack? Virt Iter Legio is the module for you.
Its simple interface and unique, immersive sound make it a staple for any style of sound design. Use the hard sync input to add an aggressive edge to sounds when synced to another oscillator, or try patching VIL’s left and right phase modulation inputs independently for even further sonic exploration in the stereo field: trust us, stereo PM is something you’ll want to hear. Turn on the beautiful, wide chorus and you’ll have an endless supply of beautiful sounds.
1:00 Librae Legio
Librae Legio is a dynamics processor designed to take a whole patch to the next level. Compression, expansion, limiting, noise gating, and two styles of gentle distortion: Librae is the perfect tool to bring your mix together. And while it can do extreme limiting and really squash your sounds together, we developed it with transparency in mind – whether you want to hard-limit a techno mix or gently bring the sounds in an ambient patch together, Librae is the end-of-chain dynamics processor you’ve been looking for."
Virt Iter Legio - stereo oscillator in 6HP from Noise Engineering
"0:05 Overview
0:51 Panels and controls
4:30 Patching example
6:00 Jam
Virt Iter Legio is a stereo Eurorack oscillator with a vintage-inspired chorus and phase modulation. Its three oscillator algorithms – Bass, SawX, and Harm – will be familiar to users of our free Virt Vereor plugin and of the Arturia MicroFreak, both of which have the same oscillator modes. Virt Iter Legio features independent left and right phase-modulation inputs, opening up opportunities for unique, gnarly sound design that takes over the stereo field, as well as a sync input for ripping hard-sync tones. Whether you want to create beautiful pads or hard-hitting bass, Virt Iter Legio’s massive sonic range will fit into any patch.
The Legio platform is our new 6HP platform. Any module in the Legio series can be swapped to any other in the series, completely free, at the Noise Engineering Customer Portal. Look for more additions to the platform, as well as open-source support. Learn more about the platform at the World of Legio: https://bit.ly/3Nf61nW"
Librae Legio - dynamics processor in 6HP from Noise Engineering
video upload by Noise Engineering
"0:05 Overview
0:55 Panel and controls
2:18 FSU!!!
2:48 A/B tests
4:35 Jam
Librae Legio is a stereo Eurorack dynamics processor designed for the master bus with compression, limiting, expansion, and optional saturation. Whether you want to cleanly limit the full mix of your patch, add a little bit of color and dynamics with the expander and saturator, or completely crush a sound, Librae can do it all, and more – plus, it’s CV controllable. Librae Legio can process mono or stereo signals, and was designed to work with everything from drum breaks and bass loops to generative ambient soundscapes. Concerned that heavy compression will bring out noise in your mix? Librae Legio’s adjustable noise gate will keep your patch clean. It also features an adjustable sidechain filter that changes how the dynamics processor reacts to incoming sounds.
The Legio platform is our new 6HP platform. Any module in the Legio series can be swapped to any other in the series, completely free, at the Noise Engineering Customer Portal. Look for more additions to the platform, as well as open-source support. Learn more about the platform at the World of Legio: https://bit.ly/3Nf61nW"
And the press release:
Noise Engineering announces new Legio platform including Virt Iter Legio oscillator and Librae Legio dynamics processor
Los Angeles, CA — Noise Engineering is back with two modules for a new 6HP Eurorack platform: Virt Iter Legio and Librae Legio.
Virt Iter Legio is a stereo oscillator with a distinct and versatile sound. Its three modes – Bass, SawX, and Harm – will be familiar to users of Noise Engineering’s free Virt Vereor plugin or those who have the Arturia Microfreak, both of which are based on the same algorithms.
Virt Iter Legio features independent left and right phase-modulation inputs, a sync input, and a lush vintage-inspired chorus. This small oscillator puts unique sounds right at your fingertips and makes them easy to manipulate within the stereo field. Virt Iter Legio works well for beautiful pads, hard-hitting basses, and leads that can be simple or otherworldly.
Librae Legio is a stereo dynamics processor designed for the master bus with compression, limiting, expansion, and optional saturation.
Librae Legio was designed to work with any type of patch. It’s great for limiting, compression, and expansion. Noise Engineering says they created it to be able to be applied as transparently as possible, but also so that you can crank the settings to really squish your sounds for maximal crunch. And of course they added a saturation stage that you can engage if you wish for some slight harmonic distortion: it adds a touch of color and some tape-like effects to louder elements. It’s also CV controllable and works great with mono or stereo signals.
The team had a great time testing this one on drum breaks, bass loops, hard techno, generative ambient soundscapes, and more. They also added an adjustable noise gate so that users could choose a setting to minimize noise accentuated by heavy compression in their patch. Librae Legio also has a sidechain filter that the user can set to change the behavior of the dynamics processing.
A platform a long time in the making The Legio platform was first announced at NAMM 2020 with Virt Iter. The team mentioned that they’d heard from a lot of customers who were eager to get the module in their systems but parts shortages, supply-chain woes, and other problems meant multiple delays and redesigns of the product to make it work with available parts. The result was something even they were amazed with. In fact, while product testing is a job everyone on the team is excited about, they all agreed that they were unanimously over the moon with how these modules came out.
"The Legio platform brings the power of a reprogrammable and multifunctional module down to a 6 HP size, perfect for any system. It's an exciting development and we're thrilled to be able to share it with the world!" said Chief of Destruction Markus Cancilla.
World of Legio Similar to the popular Versio platform, Legio is also an oscillator and DSP platform. By making a free account at the Noise Engineering Customer Portal (https://portal.noiseengineering.us/), users can change the functionality of the module, absolutely free. In essence, buy one module, get both of these, with more to come, according to the Noise Engineering team. For those who are interested in writing their own firmwares, open-source support will be released later this year. Learn more at the World of Legio page at Noise Engineering.
In just 6 HP, the Legio platform is a powerful and worthy addition to any system, small or large. Notable features: Virt Iter Legio
● 6 HP and US$279, available and in stock ● 3 stereo oscillator algorithms: Bass, SawX, and Harm ● Independent left and right phase-modulation inputs ● Vintage-inspired chorus spreads sounds across the stereo field ● Incredibly accurate pitch tracking from -2v to +5v using an automatic self- calibration process ● Oscillator/DSP platform: change the firmware on your module to a different module on the Librae platform
Notable features: Librae Legio ● 6 HP and US$279, available and in stock ● Works in both mono and stereo ● Incredibly clean compression, expansion, and limiting ● Adjustable noise gate avoids unwanted noise when heavily processing sounds ● Configurable sidechain filtering changes how the processing reacts to your sounds ● Optional saturation adds flavor to your mix ● Oscillator/DSP platform: change the firmware on your module to a different module on the Librae platform
Availability/Pricing: In stock and shipping direct and globally to retailers June 23, 2022; MSRP US$279
images via this auction. "Neuron VS is a PC and MAC compatible application. The package includes Nuke - an ergonomic hardware controller, built of steady aluminum and attachable to the computer via the USB connector.
Neuron VS is basically built on the same sound engine like the Neuron Hardware Synthesizer. It is coming with a highly sophisticated graphical user interface that perfectly interacts with the hardware controller box. Neuron VS includes 2 Resynators, the Blender module, the Mod- and Slicer Module, a Silver Unit (Multimode Filter plus Time and Frequency Effect unit) and 7 ADSR Shapers (for more details see feature list). Compared to the Hardware Synthesizer, Model maker, Surround capabilities, 4 levels / 4 times Shapers, high-end Delay and Reverb (and - obviously - the beautiful, luxurious user interface of the Keyboard version) are not included.
Neuron VS ships with 300 sounds and 200 Models. Its sound and sound shaping capabilities are amazingly close to those of the Neuron Keyboard synthesizer. This instrument will meet the expectations of many musicians out there, that do not have the money to spend on a Keyboard version - or who simply want total integration of the Neuron into their virtual studio setup.
The Nuke Controller box With the button you select, which of the Neuron VS Modules is being controlled by the stick:
* Resynator 1 * Resynator 2 * Silver
It is not possible to work on the settings of those Parameter groups without Nuke.
Nuke offers 4 freely definable endless knobs (encoders), that are being set on a third page of the Neuron VS software.
Nuke is a valuable piece of hardware, that was designed to perfectly fit in your hand. It is made of aluminum and offers exactly the same kind of stick controller and encoders you find on the Neuron keyboard. The hand rest is made of special soft synthetic material.
Nuke is included in the Neuron VS software package.
The Resynator Page The Resynator page allows for the real time setting of all Resynators’ parameters. The Resynators give access to the very heart of a sound. Neuron VS features 2 Resynators - each capable of driving one Model.
Neuron VS comes with a huge variety of Models (ca. 300). The Resynators (and Silver) need , the hardware controller to drive the parameter sets represented by the two bubbles on this page (and the bubble on the silver page). All movements of Nuke’s stick can be recorded in real time and stored as part of a sound.
Additionally, Neuron VS includes 7 ADSR shapers, that are switched by simply clicking on one of the smaller icons.
The Blender offer 10 different settings to merge and mix Models or parts of Models together.
The Silver Page Silver includes a very powerful multimode filter ( 24dB low pass, 12dB low pass, 6dB low pass, 6dB high pass and band pass) plus two multi effect units. Cutoff and Frequency are being controlled crosswise by the stick or one can use the scrollers to set the parameters separately.
The Frequency FX Module includes a high end EQ / Compressor, Distortion, Ring Modulator, Decimator and SP Warp Effects. The Time FX Module includes Stereo Spread, Left/Right Delay, Flanger, Phaser and Chorus Effects.
Silver includes a dedicated ADSR Shaper for the Filter. All Shapers can be set to Repeat Mode - adding one more very flexible cyclic effect.
Besides that, the silver page is the home of the Mod and the Slicer. Mod represents an LFO. Slicer is a Neuron exclusive Module that allows for cyclic “3 dimensional” modulations.
The Nuke Page On this page of the software the setting of the freely definable endless knobs (encoders) is being managed. Select the parameter you want to control for each knob and store the setting together with the sound.
Features * Innovative and award winning neural synthesis engine (template driven Multi-Component Particle Transform Synthesis with real time controllable synthesis model parameters, Artificial Neural Network controlled adaptive sound analysis for the parametric transformation of musical monophonic and polyphonic sounds) * 2 Resynators, each with 3 Scape and 3 Sphere Levels, Stick recording and Playback function per parameter level * 1 ADSR envelope per Resynator with definable depth per parameter level * 1 amplifier envelope per Resynator (ADSR) * 2 definable free envelopes (ADSR) * Blender module for manipulating one timbre (from resynator 1) with the properties of another (resynator 2) * 8 different blender types * Modulation module Low frequency oscillator with 12 waveforms * Slicer module for the generation of multidimensional, cyclic modulation with 12 waveforms * Silver module with multimode filter (24dB lowpass, 12dB lowpass, 6dB lowpass, 6dB highpass, bandpass) * 1 Silver (ADSR) Envelope * Frequency FX Module with EQ / Compressor, Distortion, Ring Modulator, Decimator and SP Warp Effects * Time FX Module with Stereo Spread, Left/Right Delay, Flanger, Phaser and Chorus Effects * Over 250 Models included (Strings / Percussion / Pianos / Pads / Reed / Plugged / Basses / Drums / Solo Instruments / Bells / Brass / Voices EFX / Loops / Organs, etc.) * Each Model can be manipulated with 12 Parameters (6 x Scape / 6 x Sphere Parameters) that have been detected when analyzing the original sound. * 10 different Parameter sets - depending on the specific Model characteristics * Over 300 Sounds included * hardware controller with 4 freely definable encoder knobs, 1 stick controller, 1 select button / 3 LEDs (connects via the USB port of your computer)
System Requirements PC * Windows Version: XP * Processor: Intel Pentium III, IV and compatible processors * Minimum Processor Speed: 850 MHz * Recommended Processor Speed: > 2 GHz * RAM minimum: 256 MB * RAM recommended: 512 MB * Harddisk space: 2 GB * VST 2.0 compatible host application * Soundcard: 44.1 kHz, 16 bit stereo
Mac * MAC OS Version: OS X 10.2 * Processor: G4, G5 * Minimum Processor Speed: 800 MHz * Recommended Processor Speed: > 1 GHz * RAM minimum: 256 MB * RAM recommended: 512 MB * Harddisk space: 2 GB * VST 2.0 compatible host application * Soundcard: 44.1 kHz, 16 bit stereo (all MACs)"
Update via the comments worth noting. But the keyboard version is just too damn sexy.
"We have been servicing them since we we're the U.S. Distributor for a while but only to our customers. But while there are still some spare parts around but some things there are not. So while the insides are essentially just a computer and a sound card you're still gonna have some problems depending on what knob/switch/display you break.
You should pick up a VS instead, they have almost almost every feature the hardware did and the controller is simple enough to probably be repaired by anybody. They were selling in Germany for like $150 for a while."
Title link takes you to shots pulled from this auction. Details below. Note that there are 10 available with a Buy it Now of $3,832.00. As usual, I no affiliation with this sale, just saving it for the archives of synth history... Via Melissa's Blog.
"Neuron's synthesis engine is powered by the technology found in neural networks (for more on this, see the section "Neural Networks"). It uses models as the basis for sound generation. In conceptual terms, these models are comparable to samples, and they are derived by analyzing audio samples. This means that in principle, any auditory event can provide the raw material for creating and processing sound in Neuron. It ships with some 100 of these models on its internal hard disk. Though this is a huge store of sound design resources, you are free to analyze audio resources (samples) of your own, using our proprietary ModelMaker software, and archive them in the form of user models. These models contain the actual sound as well as the parameter sets that were captured during neural analysis. Parameter sets are subdivided in up to three levels, and they may be manipulated via the resynators' sticks. That makes Neuron the first synthesizer offering dynamic parameter assignment tailored specifically to the sound that you select for processing.
The Human Interface
The ergonomic design of many modern electronic music instruments comes courtesy of company founder Axel Hartmann's creative urges. His experiences with musicians and manufacturers flowed into the operating and handling principles that help make Neuron so special.
The Neuron's extraordinary user interface is a crucial feature alongside its innovative sound generation system. Our philosophy dictates that every Hartmann instrument is easy to understand and use, that it handles intuitively, and that makes discovering new technology fun. To live up to that promise, we were compelled to invent several new control features. The tactile experience of generating sound via Neuron is something entirely apart from what users have encountered with conventional synthesizers.
The control features feel like what they are - different, unprecedented. Powerful yet subtle sound-sculpting tools, they throw the window to a new and unexplored sonic vista wide open. Starting with great legacy sounds, the musician ventures forth on a quest for unknown sonic treats by cutting, tucking, snipping and sewing these time-tested sounds. He can do this with the delicate touch of a neurosurgeon or the harsh hand of a butcher. The intelligent Snapshot function lets him take pictures of every and any stop along his auditory journey. This lets him backtrack should he get lost or want to return to a "Kodak Moment".
All dynamic parameters are controlled via rotary encoders with an infinite control range. The displays and indicator panels provide direct visual reference to the settings for the current program even when switching sounds.
The technical specifications of Neuron
Template driven Multi-Component Particle Transform Synthesis with realtime controllable synthesis model parameters | ANN (Artificial Neural Network) controlled adaptive sound analysis for the parametric transformation of musical monophonic and polyphonic sounds | Glide | 2 Resynators with 3 parameter layers per Scape/Sphere, stick recording function, 1 ADSR modulation envelope per Resynator, 1 amp envelope per Resynator (ADSR), 1 definable envelope (4 levels/4 times, also definable as pitch envelope) | Slicer for the generation of multi-dimensional, cyclic modulation | Silver unit with multi-mode filter with 3 parameter levels and a maximum of 3 ADSR envelopes (1 per parameter level), 2 Part Multi-FX processor (1 x Time FX / 1 x Frequency FX) | Surround unit with Stick-control (recordable) | Extra high-end delay (with tap function) and reverb
32bit internal signal path | digital signal processing with 32bit/64bit | floating point precision | high speed-CPU | 256 MB internal RAM | 20GB hard Disk
3 Cross-X-displays with Stick-controller and 4 back-lit LCD displays with 3 digit parameter level and 8 digit parameter name | 1 Control Center with 2x16 digit back-lit LCD display, X/Y stick and endless dial (encoder) with push/enter function | 12 endless wheels (encoders) with visual displays, 6 endless dials (encoders) | Controller unit with self centering, bi-directional stick-controller for pitch and modulation control (definable) | 1 definable endless-wheel (encoder) with visual display, 1 definable endless-dial (encoder) | Master volume dial | Large, backlit central on/off switch at rear of instrument | 5 octave (61 key) velocity sensitive, lightly weighted keyboard with channel aftertouch
Units shipping with app. 250 models / 200 sounds in memory / room for more then 200 setups | 4 times multimode | Amount of voices is dependent on the chosen neural synthesis model (up to 24) | Memory assignment and organization is achieved using a 10 button keyboard with up/down and 10's hold | Snapshot function for easy access to cache and instant saving and recall of edited sounds
Freely definable outputs (max. 6x Mono / max. 3 Stereo / 5.1 Surround) | Midi In / Out / Thru, USB port for external backup devices (CD-writers, Hard-Drives, Memory sticks etc.) and connection to a network | S/PDIF In / Out (digital, 44.1 kHz / 24bit), Stereo In, headphone connector, sustain pedal, freely definable switch and continuous controller connection
Power consumption: 250W | Dimensions: 952mm (w) x 98mm (h) x 373mm (d) | Weight: 17.5kg"
The microKORG 2, 8 voice synth and vocoder engine. 4 voice in dual/layered mode.
"The microKORG, one of the most iconic and recognizable synths in the history of music, revolutionized the music world with its unique form factor and unmistakable sounds, making it an industry standard for musicians everywhere. Renowned and loved by musicians, sound engineers, producers and gadget buffs everywhere, the microKORG has now evolved to a more powerful, more flexible and richer level - the new microKORG.
While retaining some of the iconic aspects of the original , including the convenient portable size, easy to play mini keybed, the large dial for selecting program genres or the vocoder with dedicated mic, the new microKORG offers a completely new, powerful sound engine, many more useable programs, a visually astounding user interface, and so much more."
The SY-1000 is a breakthrough creation machine that transforms your guitar or bass rig with limitless sound design options. This powerhouse music tool opens a bold new chapter in the legacy of BOSS guitar synth innovation with latest software and hardware advancements.
Backed by a cutting-edge sound engine, high-octane DSP, and evolved GK technology, the SY-1000 delivers the finest performance and most organic playing experience to date.
Three simultaneous instruments and premium processing let you craft any sound you can imagine—intense analog-style leads, warm pads, moving synth textures, modeled electric and acoustic tones, or all at once.
Sonically vast and deeply expressive, the SY-1000 is an infinite well of inspiration, energizing your musical vision with endless possibilities.
In this video, all sounds except the drum are made with the SY-1000, please kindly check the performance with SY-1000 by Alex Hutchings for guitar and Bill Banwell for bass."
Next-Generation GK Synthesizer and Instrument Modeling
Processor for Guitar and Bass
Los Angeles, California, December 5, 2019 — BOSS introduces the SY-1000 Guitar Synthesizer, an advanced synthesizer and modeling processor for guitar and bass. Opening a bold new chapter in BOSS guitar synth innovation, the SY-1000 features a newly developed Dynamic Synth and refreshed versions of historic BOSS/Roland instrument modeling and synthesizer technologies. Backed by a cutting-edge sound engine, high-speed DSP, and evolved GK technology, the SY-1000 delivers the finest performance and most organic playing experience yet.
BOSS and its parent company, Roland, have been at the forefront of guitar synthesizer development since 1977, when the landmark GR-500 first introduced guitar synthesis to the world. The SY-1000 is the most powerful guitar/bass synth processor to date, fusing decades of R&D with the latest software and hardware advancements. Leveraging custom DSP and GK independent string processing, the SY-1000 brings numerous musical advantages to players, including ultra-articulate tracking, lightning-fast response, instantly variable tuning, sound panning/layering, and more.
SY-1000 users can build patches with three simultaneous instruments—each with a number of distinctive types to choose from—and combine them for an endless range of sounds. Fed by the processor’s 13-pin GK input, every instrument offers an extensive set of parameters for tone shaping, mixing, and tuning. A normal ¼-inch input is also available to blend in regular guitar/bass pickup sounds.
Deep and expressive, the SY-1000’s Dynamic Synth takes guitar synthesis to a new level, allowing players to craft sounds never before possible. Ten oscillator waveforms are available, plus six filter types, amplifier control, two LFOs, and two 16-part step sequencers for automating pitch, filter, and amplitude parameters. Optimum performance is realized with the GK input, but it’s also possible to play the Dynamic Synth via the normal guitar/bass input.
Complementing the Dynamic Synth are two additional synth instruments. OSC Synth is an analog-style engine with numerous filter options and full ADSR control. Also included is a faithful sonic recreation of the GR-300, Roland’s legendary analog guitar synth from the early 1980s.
The SY-1000’s instrument models include a large selection of classic electric, acoustic, and bass guitars, each with independent tuning, EQ, virtual amp settings, and more. There’s also a unique VIO Guitar instrument that emulates bowed tones, and a Poly FX instrument that produces rich voices with high-res definition.
The SY-1000’s effects and user interface are derived from BOSS’s flagship GT-1000 multi-effects. A large LCD and hands-on knobs enable free-flowing sound creation, and users can customize eight onboard footswitches to operate nearly any function. Deep external control is supported as well. Main and Sub stereo outputs include independent EQs, and there's also an effects loop for integrating external gear.
Dedicated power-up modes optimize the SY-1000 for guitar or bass operation. For full access to all synth and modeling features, a Roland GK-compatible pickup and 13-pin cable are required. User-installable options include the GK-3 Divided Pickup, which is compatible with most standard electric guitars, and the GK-3B Divided Bass Pickup, which works with most 4-, 5-, and 6-string electric basses. GK Ready instruments are also available from many different manufacturers.
Availability & Pricing
The BOSS SY-1000 will be available in January 2020, for $999.99."
"Created as a response to a question about how the Endless Processor worked with field recordings.
Using recordings made in woodlands local to me as the only audio source.
I'm using an (offscreen) touchpad to trigger the sampling on the EP because I found it quicker and simpler than using the on panel button when trying to capture short bursts of birdsong. Around the 4 minute mark I introduce an LFO to control the amplitude of channel 2.
Recorded direct to the camera. The Disting is used to bring the line level audio feed up to modular levels."
"Endless is infinite sustain pulled from the sound sources of your rack, filled with the same tonal quality and stretched for an eternity. It's my latest favourite thing. You might not grasp it immediately; it might take some time, but gee whizz, it's a beauty."
Index:
Intro - 0:00
The Basics - 6:23
Dual Channelling - 16:03
Chords - 22:06
Here's a scenario - 23:30
How about a microphone? - 30:39
Another scenario - 37:08
Conclusions - 41:36
"Meet SLEDGEHAMMER, a vactrol gate core experimental dynamics and harmonics processor. This module serves many needs, such as mixdown, wavefolding, waveshaping, distortion, VCA, suboctave generation, and much more. The three signal inputs - one with a dedicated thru-zero VCA, and four differently processed outputs provide endless tonal possibilities and a core module for creative patch-programming.
SLEDGEHAMMER is intended for heavy feedback usage. The INPUTS section mixes down three signals (audio or CV) for further processing. The first and second inputs have dedicated attenuators. The third input is special: it is a voltage controlled crossfader that fades between the negative and positive copy of the input signal. The FOLD output is normalized to input 2, and the SHARP output is normalized to input 3, so patching audio to input 1 and adjusting other inputs' volumes already creates a self-patched feedback loop.
The heart of this module is a vactrol-based dynamics processor ('gate') similar to the widely known low pass gates. It processes the mixdown of the three inputs from the INPUTS section: the big LEVEL knob, two Level CV (LCV) inputs and the PING input control both the amplitude and the slight filtering of the signal: from quiet and dark to loud and bright. The first LCV input has a dedicated attenuverter; the second one has a simple attenuator. The PING input expects a gate, and upon receiving one, will strike the gate with a sharp decay-only envelope. This input has a simple passive circuit behind it, which can be creatively exploited: for example, striking it with stepped voltages, e.g. a S&H output, will make the circuit skip some strikes, and the remaining strikes will have different velocity. The DULL / VIVID switch on the left chooses the type of the response: the DULL setting yields daker, quieter tones, while the BRIGHT setting makes the gate sound more open and loud. Both modes are useful in different applications.
Finally, the output of the gate core is passed through different harmonic processor to create the four SLEDGEHAMMER outputs: GATE, FOLD, BEND and SHARP.
"Taking a trip down the amazon with the Lorre-Mill Double Knot and the Sputnik Modular Spectral Processor.
In this patch we were trying to explore what it would be like to recreate a scene from the amazon using electronic instruments. We have native people drumming, hippos groaning and owls howling.
The Sputnik Spectral Processor is great at isolating frequencies and being able to bring those frequencies in when needed. The optional routing and feedback possibilities are truly endless. While the Double Knot holds the Rhythm and is feeding its sound sources through the Spectral.
"Matriarch: Place / Time / Memory illuminates the interconnectedness between one’s sense of place, our perceptions of sound organized in time, and the impressions they leave behind.
Exploring the Moog Matriarch synthesizer from their personal home studios, multi-instrumentalist Lisa Bella Donna, Ghostly Intl. electronic producer Max Ravitz (Patricia), Anthem / Call of Duty / Assassins Creed composer Sarah Schachner and Paris Strother of Grammy-nominated R&B duo We Are KING, express 4 unique sonic perspectives on the new instrument within the context of their own creative environments."
Update:I'm not seeing the White Noise Generator, Spring Reverb, or Linear FM that are featured on the Grandmother. Interesting if this is indeed the case, and good news for those that invested in a Grandmother. Some quick diffs compared to the Grandmother:
49 velocity sensitive keys with aftertouch vs 32 velocity minus aftertouch
4 oscillators vs 2
2 filters vs 1
Dual VCA
Second simple LFO
Analog Delay
3 bipolar attenuators with ring mod vs 1
2x4 mults vs. 1x4
Mono, duo, & 4 note paraphonic vs Mono
256 step sequencer adds 4 note per step & 12 stored patterns vs 3
90 patch points (for the added modules) vs 41
And again, the Matriarch appears to be missing the White Noise Generator, Spring Reverb, and Linear FM on the Grandmother.
Update2: new hi-res image. It looks like Noise and Linear FM are there. So we have the Stereo Delay in place of Spring Reverb.
"The Pinnacle of Moog's Semi-Modular Family of Analog Synthesizers.
Moog Matriarch is a patchable 4-note paraphonic analog synthesizer with a built-in Sequencer, Arpeggiator, stereo Ladder Filters, and stereo Analog Delay. Create rich evolving chord patterns immediately with 'no patching required', then tap into an abundance of inspiring textures, new sounds, and an endless supply of happy accidents through Matriarch’s 90 modular patch points. Based on the vintage circuitry of classic Moog synthesizer modules, Matriarch is a catalyst for creative ideas and a medium for multidimensional expression.
Sequence and perform in mono, duo, and 4-note paraphonic modes.
Classic and ping-pong style repeats with lush infinite delay trails.
Create, mangle and explore the endless expanse of sound with 90 modular patch points.
Matriarch is an analog synthesizer with an emphasis on imagination. The pinnacle of Moog’s semi-modular family of synthesizers, Matriarch’s patchable architecture and vintage Moog circuits reward open exploration with endless sonic possibilities and unparalleled analog sound.
Easily create rich harmonic shapes with up to 4 notes of paraphony that can be sequenced, saved, and shifted with Matriarch’s intuitive 256 step sequencer, or stack the analog VCOs to play on a massive 4 oscillator mono synth.
With a deep assortment of synthesis modules based on Bob Moog’s original circuit designs, Matriarch’s 100% analog signal path spans a dynamic sonic vocabulary – from overdriven monophonic bass to gently evolving paraphonic plucks that cycle through waveshapes into a wash of infinite delay trails. Coupling the power of vintage stereo ladder filters, dual Envelope Generators, stereo Analog Delays, and stereo VCAs, Matriarch delivers a multidimensional sound that empowers the sonic exploration of space and time.
Though Matriarch’s semi-modular design requires absolutely no patching, 90 modular patch points are easily accessible throughout the panel via the included 3.5mm patch cables. This powerful electronic instrument is a highly-versatile addition to any stage or studio that can effortlessly transform from a performance keyboard to a fully modular analog synthesizer at a moment’s notice.
In addition to its standalone function, Matriarch is also an ideal processor of external sound sources and a powerful keyboard front-end for expanding a DFAM, Mother-32, Grandmother, or Eurorack modular system.
**Matriarch Semi-Modular Analog Synthesizer begins shipping in Summer of 2019."
"2023 is soon drawing to a close—so, we're taking a look back at the year, and taking account of all of the weird and wonderful instruments that gave us some inspiration this year. Synthesizers, drum machines, and Eurorack modules to samplers and effects, this year had no shortage of inspiring instruments.
So, we reached out to some of our friends and content creators to fill us in on their year, asking one simple question: what was the coolest piece of gear you got this year? For some, that meant brand new releases, but for others, it meant sitting down and digging into classic instruments.
In this video, we hear from:
0:00 Mylarmelodies on the Nord Micro Modular
4:14 Sarah Belle Reid on the Fairfield Circuitry Roger That
8:07 Molten Music Tech on the Blukać Endless Processor
14:04 Liam Killen on the OXI One
17:24 Oora on the Meris MercuryX
"Here we demonstrate new performance possibilities added in the new firmware (version 1.2).
By activating separate layer mode, you can move between sustained layers instead of stacking them.
Here electro-piano chords are sustained having a chord in each layer (in both channels). When moving in the separate layer mode both channels will switch to the layer, which creates a pseudo-stereo effect. Additionally, both channels are processed by a stereo delay with a touch of reverb to mix everything nicely.
Also as shown, when inserting a CV to the Layer input and setting fade in/out times to the minimum, you can achieve near audio-rate modulation or granular-like processing effects."
"This video is about the SebSongs Modular Sampler. It’s a new DIY kit available from Thonk, who kindly sent one over for me to check out. It’s a simple 12-bit mono sampler with about three and a half seconds of memory and a beautifully crunchy, lo-fi sound inspired by vintage machines like the Akai S612.
In this video, I’ve put together a small case with a few of my other favourite modules - the Blukac Endless Processor, the Serge VCFQ and Resonant EQ, the Pladask Dradd effects unit and the Xaoc Devices Sarajewo BBD delay - and I've built a few simple patches that explore some creative uses of sampling."
"This video introduces my new Eurorack synthesizer module "DROID". The DROID is a universal CV processor, that can do anything in your modular synth... except audio! The DROID has 8 CV inputs and 8 CV outputs and you can use them to implement lots of different utility functions, even at the same time. You can implement sequencers, quantizers, clock dividers and multipliers, trigger delays, precision adders, ADSR like envelope generators, random generators, turing machines, slew limiters, CV mixers, CV matrix mixers and many many more things."
The eurorack module that can do everything with CV – Introduction to Droid
"Droid – the Universal CV Processor – can basically do everything when it comes to control voltages. It can create modulation signals like complex LFOs and envelopes. Perform creative utilitarian functions like mixing, logic, quantizing, and so on. And it can do complex pattern and melodic sequencing. This gives you the power to create your own complex modules, or even entire custom control surfaces for performances.
I have been using it for a couple of months now, and in this video I explain how it works, and how it can be used. At least, I made a start, because the possibilities are basically endless!"
Roland SP-404A & TR-8 Performance
RolandChannel
Published on Aug 8, 2017
"Watch the powerful combination of sampling and rhythm synthesis with the Roland SP-404A and Roland AIRA TR-08 Rhythm Performer in this video.
The Roland SP-404A Linear Wave Sampler can now expand the sounds of the Roland AIRA TR-8 Rhythm Performer (with latest TR-8 update v1.5) for a combination of sample and percussive synthesis.
The SP-404A can be triggered from the TR-8 Rhythm Performer via MIDI for integrated beat and sample production. Users can incorporate samples from the SP-404A and use them in conjunction with drum patterns, and each of the TR-8’s 11 tracks can trigger a sample on the SP-404A, play a TR-8 sound, or both.
In addition, the TR-8 can be used as an audio sub-mixer and processor for the SP-404A. In this configuration, all samples played on the SP-404A can be effected using the TR-8’s Scatter feature to reverse, glitch, gate, truncate, stutter, and perform all types of rhythmic variations in perfect sync. Samples can also be controlled by the TR-8’s per-step Side Chain function for rhythmic ducking and gating effects.
To get users started with sample looping, the SP-404A comes with an SD card loaded with a library of new sounds created by Loopmasters, a leading sample developer. The samples in the library have been designed specifically to complement the TR-8, but also work well in standalone applications."
"A LEGENDARY SAMPLER MEETS AN ICONIC SEQUENCER
Designed for live use, the SP-404A Linear Wave Sampler expands the sounds of the Roland AIRA TR-8 Rhythm Performer for a powerful combination of sample and percussive synthesis. The fast, hands-on approach of the acclaimed SP-series performance samplers is a perfect fit for the impressive rhythmic effects and iconic step-sequencer of the Roland AIRA TR-8.
All of the functions and features of the popular SP-404SX are contained in the SP-404A, including its distinctive 16-bit linear sampling, 29 onboard DSP effects, smooth FX switching, and 12 professional performance pads. Plus, a new library of sounds curated by sample-industry leader Loopmasters are provided via the included SD card.
Whether used standalone or controlled by the TR-8, the SP-404A makes for an intuitive and inspiring addition to the AIRA range of performance instruments for DJs, musicians, and producers.
Sample anytime, anywhere with the built-in mic and battery power
Can be triggered from the 16-step sequencer in the TR-8 Rhythm Performer (TR-8 system version 1.50 or later required)
AIRA black-and-green color scheme to match existing AIRA hardware
“Sounds by Loopmasters” SD card includes over 100 new stereo samples, effects, and one-shots
29 DSP effects, including filter, delay, unique voice effects, subsonic, looper, and more
Three control knobs, 12 trigger pads, and Sub Pad for rapid-repeat triggering
Seamless effects switching for smooth, perfect performances
Pattern sequencer with quantize mode and shuffle feels
Import audio files from a computer and assign samples to pads with free Mac/Windows software
