Chroma Classics Preset Pack for Chroma features an additional 100 phenomenal presets by Cherry Audio's Director of Sound Design, James Terris, blending vintage tones with a contemporary feel.
"Dive into the captivating history of the Rhodes Chroma synthesizer with "The Story of Chroma," a documentary that traces its revolutionary path from the final days of ARP Instruments to its celebrated release by Rhodes in 1982. This compelling video brings to life the innovative spirit of the Chroma through the firsthand accounts of those who stood at the forefront of its creation. Hear from Dr. Tom Rhea, a renowned electronic music historian, Michael Brigida, a dedicated ARP and Rhodes product specialist, and Mary Lock, the esteemed service manager for both companies, as they recount the synthesizer's development, challenges, and triumphs. Featuring exclusive interviews and insights, this documentary not only explores the technical breakthroughs and musical possibilities the Chroma introduced but also celebrates its enduring legacy and the recent resurgence through Cherry Audio’s efforts. Witness the story of a musical marvel that continues to inspire innovation and creativity in the world of music.
Produced by Daniel Keller Editing and graphics by Mal Meehan Music by James Terris"
4. Cherry Audio | Introduction to Chroma Synthesizer
Synth designer Mitchell Sigman of Cherry Audio introduces Chroma, Cherry Audio's virtual instrument that emulates the 1982 Rhodes Chroma polyphonic analog synthesizer and its Expander unit.
0:10 Introduction
1:18 User Interface Basics
4:44 Voice Architecture and Patch Configuration
9:43 The Chroma Arpeggiator
11:37 Sweep Generators (the LFOs)
17:02 Envelope Generators
19:46 Chroma CPU Usage
Cherry Audio Chroma User Videos
1. Cherry Audio Chroma: A demo + tutorial of an elusive analog synth - CatSynth TV - Patreon
We take a deep dive into Cherry Audio's new Chroma, a meticulous recreation of the legendary and elusive Rhodes Chroma. It was a polyphonic analog synthesizer that came with some unique features, notably the ability to reconfigure the signal path among its oscillators, filters, and VCAs, opening up a wider range of sound possibilities. Cherry Audio's version combines these features with a modern user interface that allows direct manipulation of the parameters (unlike the original with a single data slider), and adds a full-featured effects section. We go over the expansive feature set of this instrument, showing you how each feature works and how to use them to make your own sounds.
00:00 Introduction 00:27 History of the Chroma synthesizer 01:38 Presenting the Cherry Audio Chroma 02:39 Oscillator features 06:56 Filter features 11:17 VCA features 12:42 Dual Layers configuration 16:49 Dual Layers + Oscillator Sync 18:47 Dual Layers + Ring Modulation 21:13 Filter FM 23:54 Parallel Filters 26:09 Parallel Filters + Oscillator Sync 27:04 Series Filters 31:44 Effects section 32:38 Factory Presets 39:41 Conclusion
2. Cherry Audio Chroma Expander Sounds of Chaos Beauty Virtual Synthesizer - Rik Marston Official - AhnyxianSoundDesign
3. Cherry Audio Chroma Expander Sounds of Light & Darkness Virtual Synthesizer VST - Rik Marston Official - AhnyxianSoundDesign
Press release follows:
May 14, 2024: Cherry Audio is excited to unveil Chroma, a groundbreaking virtual instrument that brings the legendary sounds of the 1982 Rhodes Chroma into the digital age.
"Hans Zimmer's 'RadioPhonic' Synth from AJH Synth @ Superbooth 24 - This monster MiniMod Eurorack modular system was commissioned by Hans himself, and he was kind enough to allow us to build a limited number of exact replicas which will be individually built to order by AJHSynth. Full details of the system, along with an interview with Hans Zimmer about his use of the MiniMod system, can be found at https://ajhsynth.com.
We will have one such RadioPhonic system on display in our bungalow at Superbooth 24, along with a MinMod Keyz, a 9U full system, and a huge monster case full of AJH modules.
Richard Quirk, and Wayne Taylor (DreamsOfWires/Tomorrow the cure) will also be there representing AJH with Allan J Hall himself. We'd be glad to chat about the modules and demonstrate some in action, so feel free to pop by.
The AJH SYNTH Eurorack range consists of high-end modules, all hand-made in the UK, most of which are based on classic, vintage designs, authentically recreating the circuitry of much sought-after analogue instruments and technologies of the past, whilst greatly expanding them, and bringing them to modern Eurorack levels of convenience, limitless flexibility, and reliability.
Official website page: https://ajhsynth.com"
THYME+ is a digital tape machine transcending typical delay effects and spanning various multi-effect categories. Though proudly digital, THYME+ operates with the metaphor of an analog tape delay machine, with adjustable tape speed and read heads positions. Multiple read heads (multi-tap) enhance density and complexity, while feedback and filters govern the richness or darkness of the echo tails.
THYME+ is an updated and innovated version of the iconic Thyme from 2017. Alongside improved connectivity, a better audio codec, tuned and updated firmware, THYME+ features a metal enclosure, larger knobs, and a sleeker faceplate.
"Performing 'TRANCE ENCOUNTERS' and 'DREAMBOAT' using NINA Synthesizers and Theremin
THE NIGHT TERRORS are a Melbourne-based electronic music duo consisting of Miles Brown and Sarah Lim. Often billed as 'Australian Electro Goth Legends', The Night Terrors recently released their fourth album titled 'HYPNOTICA - Composition for Theremin and Electronic Music Synthesizer' featuring Miles on Theremin, Synthesizer and Programming, and Sarah on Synthesizer. For this recording we asked Miles and Sarah to choose two compositions from the new album to perform using two NINAs, and of course Miles' Moog Theremin.
In the two songs featured here Miles uses NINA's 12 voice 4-part Multi-timbral ability to control three layers via DAW and one layer via Keyboard controller (Novation SL61). Throughout the performance Miles is using DAW automation to Morph the A/B patches of each layer. Sarah controls the second NINA with her trusted Korg Krome EX 73, using multi-timbral splits and layers. The Theremin is doing it's own thing - not connected to NINA or any other devices. To get that 'hypnotic vintage horror synth' feel, Miles and Sarah created their own NINA presets as well as using original factory presets. With the exception of the Theremin and some percussion, all sounds are generated by the two NINAs used during the recording.
For this session, the songs were performed and recorded live at Fitzroy's iconic NIGHT CAT venue over a single afternoon. The final mix you're hearing is as it was played - without overdubs or post effects. (headphones on!)
NINA is one of the newest and only synthesizers to embrace a paradigm shift in synth control and sound design, whilst the legendary Theremin is the world's oldest and most mysterious electronic instrument. Bringing these two instruments together is a wonderful pairing, and it's made even better with the dark ethereal sounds of The Night Terrors.
ABOUT NINA: NINA is the world’s first fully motorized analog synthesizer. Synth players have dreamt of this feature for decades, and now it’s finally available. Instantly recall your presets and layers, see exactly how the sound was created, and easily pick up from where you were last working. Musicians, Producers & Sound Designers can now enjoy the flexibility of Soft Synth control from a real, physical instrument.
"The drum machine has progressed massively since the days of the home organ player. Here Oli Freke takes us through a brief history with lots of audio examples, highlighting the most iconic models to have been released during the last 60 years and the part they have played in shaping musical trends."
You might remember Oli Freke from his Synthesizer Evolution book, synth posters, and demos previously posted here.
00:00 - Introduction
00:51 - Early Rhythm Machines
02:57 - The First Korg Rhythm Machine
04:03 - The Invention Of The Transistor
08:02 - Solid State Rhythm Machines
13:48 - Using Drum Machines In Mainstream Hits
17:05 - The First Programmable Drum Machines
21:59 - The Introduction Of Drum Pads And Brains
25:27 - The Arrival Of Digital Samples And The Linn Drum
30:59 - The Era Of Sampling Drum Machines
37:11 - The Impact Of The Roland TR-808 and TR-909
42:54 - Other Notable 80s Drum Machines
44:41 - The Introduction Of MIDI
46:51 - Standardised Layouts And Spec
50:12 - Analogue Circuit Modelling And Software
53:45 - Back To Hardware With Eurorack Modular
54:52 - Drum Pattern Generation With AI
"Oli Freke is a London-based musician, artist and author who has had a life-long passion for electronic instruments, synthesizers and electronic music. Currently working for the BBC, he has previously enjoyed success with electro band Cassette Electrik supporting the Human League on tour, written music for television and produced dance music since the 1990s.
His Synth Evolution range of posters, celebrating the synthesizer and electronic music culture, launched in 2017 and led to the definitive, hand-illustrated book, Synth Evolution: From Analogue to Digital (and Back), featuring every commercial synth of the 20th century.
"We’re thrilled to announce that our first VST Instrument is now ready for download.
Visit www.behringer.com to obtain your complete copy today. VINTAGE is the premier offering from our upcoming collection of iconic synthesizer plugins, and we’re excited for you to experience it.
We've worked with the amazing Stefano D'Angelo of Orastron, the mastermind behind many famous plugins, to give you this exciting new synth!
00:00 Intro
00:20 VINTAGE Intro Song
01:03 Features
02:16 Synth Engine Developers
02:48 Synthesists Rock
03:20 Playing For Change Org
Video & all Music created by Patrick (PatchDog) using the VINTAGE VSTi."
"Discover the unbelievable as Anthony and co-host Rob Rosen, synth tech to the stars, team up with special guest Patrick Gemayel, also known as P-Thugg from electro-funk duo "Chromeo," to unveil and construct the world's largest touring synthesizer - a towering 18 feet long and 8 feet tall, featuring 6 keyboards, all fully CHROMED! Dive into an epic unboxing and building session, culminating in an electrifying improvised synth jam. In this captivating video, witness the step-by-step assembly of four colossal custom chrome modular synthesizer towers, drawing inspiration from iconic sources like Stevie Wonder’s TONTO synth, 1984 Bang & Olufsen speakers, and Seventies space-age furniture. Crafted and chromed by the legendary Roger Arrick from Synthesizers.com, these towers house cutting-edge modular synths with a unique behind-the-modules patching system, ensuring seamless performances with quick sound changes and full MIDI compatibility for patch cord free audience views. Delve into the meticulous live performance setup of P-Thugg and his duo mate David Macklovitch (aka Dave 1), showcasing their mastery of Ableton Live and AbleSet for music playback, set lists, and lighting cues. Experience the behind-the-scenes magic as you join the conversation with the funk maestro "P" in his warehouse, where dreams of a chromed synth spectacle turned into reality. Don't miss out on this unforgettable journey into the heart of electro-funk innovation!
00:00:00 Intro (music) 00:00:55 Meet P-Thugg 00:01:11 Building the Modules / Jam 1 00:02:53 The MIDI Keyboards 00:04:53 Building the Tiers / Jam 2 00:06:33 Custom system by Synthesizers.com (https://shop.synthesizers.com) 00:12:15 Custom Tuner Module 00:13:10 Synthesizer Tuner Hack 00:14:10 Modular and Poly Synth Output Configuration 00:15:50 Look Mum, no patch cords - Hard Wired Presets 00:17:34 Culmination of a Modular Dream / Monster Polyphonic Dream Next 00:19:07 Building the MIDI / Jam 3 00:22:44 Fully Built Instrument (after 3 hours setting up) 00:24:05 Preset Patching System 00:29:47 Bypassing the Preset Patches 00:30:21 Switching Presets on Stage 00:33:40 Spontaneously Programming Sounds on Stage 00:34:42 P-Thugg's Favorite Sound 00:35:25 Presets Switch between Live Panel Settings 00:36:39 Re-creating the Album in a Live Setting 00:37:35 Changing The Face Panel 00:40:09 Patching the MIDI Polyphonic Synthesizer Keyboards 00:43:15 Tuning Drifting Oscillators - Custom Tuner Module 00:43:51 Connecting All 4 Modular Instruments 00:45:59 Cleaning the Chrome 00:46:35 MIDI Interface Routing 00:48:47 Moog Modular Flexibility with Minimoog Speed 00:49:14 Front Panel Tour 00:51:20 Overriding the Presets with Patch Cords / Multi-Mode Filter 00:53:34 AbleSet by Leolabs - Set Lists, MIDI Patch Changes, Ableton Live Playback connection (https://ableset.app) 00:56:10 Ableton Light Cues 00:57:02 DAW Software - Cubase, Pro Tools, Ableton Live 00:57:50 Adapting the Show to the Song 00:59:37 Chromeo's Mission 01:01:20 Conclusion 01:01:47 Logo (music)"
"Here is part six of a multi-part demonstration of a sound set of samples of the iconic 1957 RCA Mark II Synthesizer for the Arturia MicroFreak!
The instruments in the theme music (including some drums) were created entirely with samples of the RCA Mark II played on the Arturia MicroFreak, and multitracked. Some drums were assembled out of GarageBand loops."
"Here is part one of a multi-part demonstration of a sound set of samples of the iconic RCA Synthesizer for the Arturia MicroFreak!
The instruments in the theme music (including some drums) were created entirely with samples of the RCA played on the Arturia MicroFreak, and multitracked. Some drums were assembled out of GarageBand loops.
This video was funded by the Patreon supporters of Automatic Gainsay. Support the creation of this video and all of the Automatic Gainsay videos that have helped you by becoming an Automatic Gainsay supporter on Patreon!
http://www.patreon.com/automaticgainsay
If you are interested in learning about the history of synthesizers and/or how to become a synthesist being taught by a synthesist and synthesizer historian, check out the OTHER Automatic Gainsay Patreon:
"Welcome to Bad Gear, the show about the world's most hated audio tools.
There aren’t many software companies whose influence on electronic music is comparable to iconic hardware brands like Roland and Korg - Native Instruments is certainly one of them.
They defined the industry standard for sampling, established in-the-box modular synthesis and made using FM much too easy but today we are going to talk about Massive.
Putting this 2006 wavetable softsynth and primary ghost writer of the first three Skrillex EPs on the show is - quite literally - long overdue as, after the usual venture capitalist fustercluck and discontinuation of Absynth, it can only be a matter of months until this classic plugin stops working properly on contemporary computers.
Bad Gear is MASSIVE Plugin, VST, Software Instrument
Left: Executive Director, Michelle Moog-Koussa, poses for a picture with Bob Santelli, Executive Director of the Bruce Springsteen Archives and Center for American Music alongside Herb Deutsch's
R.A. Moog Minimoog at the LBJ Presidential Library in Austin, Texas.
"The Bob Moog Foundation's Executive Director, Michelle Moog-Koussa, and Board of Advisors member Francis Preve recently attended the opening of the Music America: Iconic Objects from America's Music History exhibit at the Lyndon Baines Johnson Presidential Library in Austin, Texas to celebrate the inclusion of a rare R.A. Moog Minimoog from the Bob Moog Foundation Archives.
The R.A. Moog Minimoog, which belonged to electronic music pioneer Herb Deutsch, is serial number 1094 and is one of only 210 R.A. Moog Minimoogs to have been manufactured. The synthesizer was given to Herb by Bob Moog in 1971.
The rare Minimoog synthesizer was chosen to represent Bob Moog's indelible legacy as someone who created instruments that revolutionized the face of music by bringing a brand new palette of sounds to the performing musician, as well as honor Herb Deutsch for the significant role he played in the development of synthesizers and electronic music.
Other objects in the exhibit include: Thomas Edison's wax cylinders, Jimi Hendrix's guitar, Janis Joplin's pants and letters, Dizzy Gillespie's trumpet, Arlo Gurthrie's hand-written song lyrics, and much more.
The exhibit will be at the LBJ Presidential Library from now until August 11, 2024. It will then travel to four other presidential libraries over a two-year period."
"We are excited to announce that thanks to IK Multimedia, everyone who purchases a ticket for our Moog Source raffle will receive a download code for the Syntronik 2 Sorcerer!
Normally priced at $49, the Syntronik 2 Sorcerer is a virtual synthesizer built by Erik Norlander using the exact Moog Source being raffled. Following the end of the raffle on February 26th, all ticket purchasers will receive an email with download instructions.
The Source, serial number 3948, is an excellent condition vintage synthesizer signed by Bob Moog. It features rich sound quality and a technical lineage rooted in the legendary Minimoog. The Source is lauded for its sequencers, sample and hold, arpeggiator, presets, unique data wheel, and patch memory storage. The synthesizer features a mylar touch control panel, single-knob functionality, and the trademark Moog sound.
THE RAFFLE ENDS IN ONE WEEK! Tickets for the raffle are $20 each, 6 for $100, 14 for $200, and 40 for $500.
The raffle is open internationally.
As an added bonus for this raffle only, get a free 2024 Bob Moog - His Life and Work 90th Birthday Commemorative Calendar when you purchase a bundle of 6, 14, or 40 tickets. This offer is valid until the limited quantity of calendars runs out. This offer does not apply to the purchase of individual tickets."
"Enjoying once again the most splendid factory preset sounds on the iconic vintage YAMAHA DX7 FM synthesizer, but this time on the most unlikely host, the NATIVE INSTRUMENTS MASCHINE+ MUSIC PRODUCTION GROOVEBOX."
"I really love the approach of Vostok Instruments where they’re building out modules that not only sound great, but that offer multiple channels of the same functions. In modular you often need more, and not particularly more variety, but more of the same functions to push creativity and deeper levels of patching.
Atlas is a set of 4 multimode filters (low pass, high pass, band pass), with clever normalisations, dual modulation inputs per channel, a ‘classic synths of Japan in the 80s’ inspired sound PLUS you get an interpolating scanner bank that will morph between the four filter outputs. It’s an impressive thing that’s been a delight to play and patch with.
As always I hope the video provides you patches to explore Atlas and other filters and functions in your own systems."
00:00 Intro
01:14 Module Overview
04:46 Scan section
07:39 My first patch with Atlas
08:11 Four voice poly synth patch
11:23 Funky Bass & vowels
14:01 Ping it!
14:54 Stereo patch
17:17 Ambient w/ Torso T-1
18:14 Drum machine patch
21:34 End talk
Mini press release follows:
"Atlas is the latest addition to our range of multi-channel modules, a fully analog, four-channel multimode filter.
The cores are a modern approach to the gain-cell-based filters included in many of the classic Japanese synths of the 80s, with a vastly improved dynamic range, a super-accurate resonance compensation circuit, and a clean self-oscillation. It is perfect for recreating iconic TR-drum sounds by pinging the filters with fast envelopes or triggers.
In addition to the four filters, the module counts with a dedicated Interpolating Scanning Circuit that morphs between all the filter outputs to create new shapes and timbres."
When we talk about the sound signature of synths, filters are probably one of the first topics appearing.
On Atlas, we dive into the sound of the 80s Japanese classics with four gain-cell-based multimode filters that keep the silky and creamy sound of those legendary machines along with some technical improvements like a better noise floor, an accurate resonance compensation, and a daisy-chain input implementation that makes some patching techniques like parallel filtering a lot easier.
The filter cores have been carefully designed and tweaked to be pristine without losing character. With three filter modes available per channel, 4p-LP, 2p-HP, and 4p-BP, Atlas can cover almost any filtering technique, from superb filter sweeps to multi-slope resonant patches.
Thanks to its precise resonance circuit, each core creates a clean sine wave when self-oscillating. Excite the inputs with fast trigger or gate signals, and you will get TR-like drum sounds, from deep kickdrums to nice toms and congas.
In addition, the module counts with a CV-controlled Interpolating Scanner circuit that morphs softly between each filter output, creating new shapes and timbres as it fades between the channels.
Features Four analog multimode, gain-cell-based VCF circuits. Three modes per channel: 4p-LP, 2p-HP, and 4p-BP. Resonance compensation circuit. Daisy-chained audio and Freq inputs. Secondary CV input, selectable between Frequency or Resonance. CV-controlled Interpolating Scanner circuit.
Introducing the Stylophone Pitch Theremin, the latest innovation in portable electronic instruments from UK company Dubreq Ltd – creators of electronic instruments and the iconic sound of the Stylophone pocket synthesizer launched in 1968.
The new portable Stylophone Theremin redefines the iconic instrument for the 21st century. With added slider control for precise notes, delay and vibrato effects, octave control, and various tone options, it merges vintage retro design with advanced playability and sound sculpting options. Designed to inspire musicians, enthusiasts, and creators alike.
The Stylophone Theremin creates experimental sounds controlled by movement with an extendable antenna, the unique slider for precise melodies and tones or a combination of both, offering a magical intuitive musical experience.
Go over the edge with crunchy echoing delay and screaming modulated drones. Add vibrato and the trigger button for crazy, quirky sounds. Make beautiful haunting melodies and crazy sci-fi symphonies.
Powered by AA batteries, with built-in speaker and headphone connection, it is an ideal companion for those seeking innovation in sound creation and a compact on the go instrument for live performance, studio or home. Play it anywhere. No Theremin experience required.
Features list:
Antenna for creating movement based sound
Slider for more precise notes and moving melodies
Create drones or trigger notes
Wobbly vibrato circuit
Echoing delay
Portable AA battery design
Built in speaker
Headphone and audio output
Can be used with a mic stand
Availability
The Stylophone Theremin is available for pre-order now.
"The Korg Polysix, a 6-voice poly synth launched in 1981 for £899 / $1095, aimed to deliver an affordable polyphonic analog synthesizer experience. Featuring the DDM2044 4-pole VCF, also found in the Mono/Poly and Trident, its filter was used in notable synths like the PPG Wave 2.2/2.3, Emu Emulator, and early Fairlight models. With a single oscillator per voice, offering Saw, Pulse, Pulse Width, and a sub-oscillator, the Polysix's sonic palette is rich.
Noteworthy are the single ADSR envelope for the filter and amplifier, and the VCA's gate mode. Modulation features for the VCO, VCF, and VCA, along with a delightful delay on the MG (Korg's LFO), contribute to its unique sound. The Ensemble and Chorus effects add movement, creating a timeless sonic experience. While pre-MIDI, it boasts CV/Gate and an arpeggiator. Save your patches via the cassette interface with 32 memory slots.
If you're eyeing a Polysix, beware of potential circuit damage from leaked batteries. Experience it virtually through the Korg Collection.
The Polysix's influence extends to modern synths like the Korg Modwave and Wavestate, both featuring Polysix-modeled filters. The Modwave excels at creating Polysix-type sounds (grab my free Polysix collection for the Modave). https://thedigitallifestyle.com/w/202...
Used by Tears for Fears, Geoff Downes, Eat Static, Astral Projection, Jimi Tenor, Global Communications, Kitaro, Robert Rich, and Keith Emerson, the Polysix shines in synthwave and retro synth music.
Dive into my videos covering classic hardware synths (TX7, Korg Karma, MS2000) and explore my virtual collection, including the Wavestation and M1. Don't miss the journey into the sonic history of these iconic instruments!
00:00 Introduction 01:21 Synth Design 03:25 Starting with Init Program 04:41 Mapping controlls 04:58 VCF 06:04 Enverlopes 06:23 MG 07:40 Polysix effects 08:56 Arpediator 10:56 Extras on the VST 12:31 Issues with the orignal Polysix 13:02 Korg Polysix Plugin / Modwave 13:41 Polysix patches 14:07 Fear of Tears 14:27 Synthwave sounds 14:56 Patch demos"
"Follow Matt Paul as he explores the entirely new and rebuilt titles in V Collection X; from the timeless lead & bass tones of Mini V and iconic stage sound of CP-70, to the innovative composition textures of Augmented WOODWINDS and gravelly funk keys of Wurli V. Don't forget, long-awaited hybrid synths and augmented sounds have also been added to V Collection X."
Update: new videos above from Arturia.
Arturia V Collection X | No Talking | #Vcollection #vcollectionX #arturiavcollectionX
"We explore the CP-70 V, a new instrument from Arturia released as part of V Collection X. It's a recreation of Yamaha's classic CP-70 electro-acoustic piano that combined customized piano strings and hammer action with piezoelectric pickups, a pre-amp, and other electronic processing. It's compact size made it a "portable piano" and a popular instrument for touring artists in the 1970s and beyond.
We go over the CP-70 V's features, including the main panel that recreates the look and feel of the original, the advanced panel that allows finer control over the acoustic and electric aspects of the instrument, the effects panel, and some factory presets.
To find out more, please visit arturia.com
00:00 Introduction 00:25 History of the Yamaha CP-70 01:17 Overview of the Arturia CP-70 V 02:32 The main panel 04:44 The advanced panel 10:30 Controlling timbre, pre-amp, and microphone with macros and MIDI 12:50 The FX panel 21:09 Factory presets 24:29 Conclusion"
"Introducing V Collection X: Reference instruments for music makers
V collection X is a premium suite of software instruments for unparalleled sonic exploration; from evocative emulations and hybrid synth engines, to authentically modeled keyboards and beautifully captured acoustic sounds.
It is the most expansive and feature-dense suite yet, combining timeless sonic craft and expert engineering with cutting-edge enhancements that seamlessly integrate with demanding production workflows - for endless inspiration, vivid composition and boundless play.
"Introducing the new 'HX' series, HX-20 provides a powerful hybrid architecture combining 3 hardware-based wavetable and sample oscillators with physically-modeled filters to deliver a versatile and creative re-imagining of an esteemed classic."
HX-20 is based on one of the most recognizable and well-loved analog monosynths around, known for its versatile semi-modular architecture, iconic front panel design, and starred musical history. Launched in the late '70s, this small two-oscillator monosynth has a lot to offer, and continues to be an inspirational studio compadre for artists around the world.
More Than The Sum
The success of this synth wasn't due to any single design consideration, instead it benefits from its combination of great features, fantastic sound, and compelling value. From the rich analog oscillators to its versatile filter section, to being both semi-modular - capable of integrating with external inputs and larger systems, to being relatively light and portable, there is simply a lot to love.
More Than The Sum
The success of this synth wasn't due to any single design consideration, instead it benefits from its combination of great features, fantastic sound, and compelling value. From the rich analog oscillators to its versatile filter section, to being both semi-modular - capable of integrating with external inputs and larger systems, to being relatively light and portable, there is simply a lot to love.
A Dynamic Duo
HX-20 is the debut release of UVI's new HX Series - leveraging our deep history in hardware sampling and physical modeling to create flexible, modern instruments with an unmistakable hardware soul, thanks in part to a novel hybrid approach combining hardware samples and wavetables, with physically-modeled filters. With its own unique hybrid sensibilities, we thought this was the perfect instrument to kick things off with.
Hybrid-X Engine
HX-20 is similar to many of our vintage instruments in that you get a deep sampling of the hardware, but it excels in two important ways; the addition of two new layers of hardware-based wavetables, and physically-modeled filters - giving you three sample layers in total to configure, all with the analog charm you know and love. Like our chosen hardware, this unique combination of features creates a powerful and compelling sonic tool with incredible character.
Hardware Sound, Exemplified
The new sample-based wavetable oscillators in HX-20 give you entirely new dimensions with which to explore. Capturing the hardware in its full range, you have greater flexibility and nuance over the raw instrument sound than ever before. The best part, you still get our top-tier sample layers, with hand-crafted sounds lovingly designed here at UVI.
"From the iconic Minimoog Model D to the Taurus Bass Pedals, Sub Phatty, and Minitaur, bass has been the foundation for the sound and power of Moog instruments for decades. With Mariana, we are proud to continue this tradition.
In a new video narrated by actor, writer, producer, and comedian H. Jon Benjamin, we invite you to journey through moments of the past and into the future of bass with a soundtrack built using all sounds from Mariana."
Update: playlist with new videos added to the player above with the following videos:
1. Introducing Mariana | A New Bass Synthesizer from Moog Music
2. Mariana | Gain Staging Overview
3. Mariana | Using Virtual Control Voltage
4. Mariana | Modulation Editor
5. Sound Design with Mariana | Bass Patch | Thavius Beck
6. Sound Design with Mariana | Drum Synth | Thavius Beck
7. Sound Design with Mariana | Synth Pad | Thavius Beck
"Made for Your Studio: Mariana's Key Sound Design Features
Mariana includes all the tools necessary for creating deep, pulsating, professional bass sounds and more. Tone layering, parallel filtering, cross-over control, doubling and detune, compression, dynamic saturation, and surgical stereo placement are all built into Mariana for streamlined, recallable access to your favorite bass chain—without needing to load up additional processors.
Powerful, modern Moog bass sound in an accessible format
Dual layers for complementary sound stacks or independent duophonic playing
Deep, complex modulation sources, destinations, controllers, and functions
A beautiful, resizable, and user-friendly interface for effortless control
Built-in effects, compression, and metering
Seamless interconnectivity with Moogerfooger Effects Plug-ins via virtual CV
Flexibility as a plug-in within your DAW or standalone use via MIDI
More than 200 professionally designed presets covering a wide range of musical styles and genres"
""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."
"Welcome to another non - Bad Gear episode. I built ReBirth for real and this happened. Propellerhead Rebirth RB-338, the iconic 90s music production software and virtual groovebox was my first electronic musical instrument. Since then I had the dream of reconstructing the classic setup consisting of a Roland TR-808, a Roland TR-909, two Roland TB-303 and specific set of effects. Can we recreate the software workflow, are the famous vintage instruments as great as anybody is telling you and is all this worth the hassle?
Respect to the Rebirth scene which is alive and kicking, check out World of RB-338: https://www.youtube.com/@worldofrb-338
LOOK MUM NO COMPUTER did some awesome videos about his DIY midi controller for the original Rebirth running on old iMacs: [posted here]
Thanks to Philipp of Feedback Underground Studios for giving me access to his absurdly awesome collection. Serious requests are welcome to: fbugs@gmx.at"
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction
00:28 History of Rebirth-338
00:51 The Original Instruments
01:15 ReWire Integration
01:39 What did Roland think of all this???
01:50 Other stuff
02:02 Concept of the Setup
02:10 Midi Sync, DIN Sync
02:30 Clocking
02:44 Recording Audio, Multitrack
02:55 Why not just use a Mixer???
03:01 Pre-mixing sounds, DAW, Monitor Mix
03:16 Jam 1 (no Effects)
03:49 That didn't work out so well
04:01 Much Better!!! Adding Effects
04:15 PCF (Pattern Controlled Filter)
04:35 Delay
04:48 Distortion, Reamping
05:02 Compressor
05:11 FX Integration, Routing
05:27 Jam 2 (Full Rebirth Functionality)
06:04 Thanks & Vintage Synth B-Roll
06:20 Conclusion
07:11 POV Rehearsal Take
May 14, 2024: Cherry Audio is excited to unveil Chroma, a groundbreaking virtual instrument that brings the legendary sounds of the 1982 Rhodes Chroma into the digital age.
