Kurzweil PCEK8, PCLE Series, and SP4-7 Stage Piano

"PC3K8 Overview [via]
The PC3 introduced the world to a new generation of ground-breaking Kurzweil technology, having a synthesis architecture that remains unparalleled in depth and flexibility, combined with a staggering amount of effects processing power. The PC3 sound set, which encompasses everything from the traditional to the cutting edge, has been widely acknowledged as second to none.

And now the PC3's successor has arrived. The Kurzweil PC3K is the pinnacle of our PC3 line, bridging the gap between Kurzweil's past successes and present innovations.
An Old Friend

The PC3K, already loaded up with the many impressive features and sounds of the PC3, allows users to tap into the massive wealth of samples and programs developed for our legendary K Series over the past 18 years. Capable of loading .KRZ/25/26 sample files, WAVE and AIFF files, as well as most of the K Series programs and setups, the PC3K presents a whole new world of choices to players, and once again underscores our commitment to the concept of non-obsolescence by design. You can choose to delve into the extensive libraries of existing K Series samples or decide to fill the PC3K's flash memory with your own signature samples. In either case, you'll have the most powerful version of Kurzweil's V.A.S.T technology ever developed at your fingertips to help sculpt your sounds and attain a level of detail and expressiveness truly worthy of your music. Sample files can be loaded via USB from a thumb-drive or directly from a computer.
Esto Immortalis

~ "Let it be lasting, immortal" (Latin)

User samples that do not "go away" when a keyboard is powered off - this is a feature that's been requested by keyboardists since the introduction of digital sampling in the early '80s. Clearly demonstrating the virtue of enduring quality, the PC3K offers 128 megabytes of user sample memory and compatibility with K Series files, while also taking an enormous leap forward by allowing user samples to remain intact while power is off. Once samples are loaded into the PC3K's flash memory, there is zero load time for those samples when powering on the instrument.

Advanced program, keymap and sample editing features allow you to customize your sounds with surgical precision. You're able to map any sample to any key, tune individual samples, change the start, alt start, loop point and end point of samples and even assign a controller to adjust sample start point in real-time.
Light Years Ahead

Under the hood of the PC3X is simply the most powerful synthesis engine ever created by Kurzweil. Dynamic V.A.S.T. picks up where the K series left off. Having up to 32 layers per program means that emulations of real instruments can be extremely detailed and accurate, while the synthesized sounds can be extraordinarily large and complex.

Expanding upon our V.A.S.T. architecture, the PC3X's new architecture delivers more power and flexibility combined with unprecedented ease of use. Users can now create and store their own DSP algorithms, with nearly limitless possibilities for routing.

In another huge development, we've resurrected the VA-1 Virtual Analog Synthesizer, having built it's synthesis engine right into the new system. Hear the VA-1's power-shaped, anti-aliasing oscillators (including supersaw, triplesaw, and hard sync oscillators) combined with a newer, larger set of V.A.S.T. filters (like the classic-style 4pole low pass w/ resonance) and non-linear processors and you'll understand why the internet is buzzing about this feature.
It's The Sound

The PC3 Series's advanced synthesis architecture, along with its painstakingly-edited sample ROM, allowed us to create a sound set that is both broad and deep, with no compromises on sound quality. Referred to by some in the music industry as "the solid gold Swiss army knife", the PC3 line has become well known for having covered all the bases when it comes to presets. Whether it's the famous Kurzweil grand piano, the wide array of deadly-accurate vintage keys emulations, KB3 Mode, VA virtual analog sounds or the hundreds of world-class orchestral and string section programs, the PC3K provides over 900 presets that let you know that it does everything and does it well.
Plug And Play

Saving, loading and updating the OS are all made easy on the PC3K with the inclusion of both USB Host and Device ports. You can save your user programs, setups and songs to a USB thumb-drive or directly to a computer. Samples and OS updates can be loaded from a thumb-drive or directly from your computer, and of course the PC3K sends and receives MIDI over USB.
Finishing Touch

In a nod to the design of classic synths and keyboard instruments from years past, the PC3K, the top of our PC3 line, has been fitted with handsomely crafted wooden end-caps, adding an element of luxury and refinement that beautifully complements the awesome technology at the heart of every Kurzweil keyboard.

Suggested Retail Price: $4199
Available: Summer 2010"

""PC3LE6 Overview [via]
The Best Sounds, The Best Features, The Right Price
First Things First...

Fantastic sounds, reliable performance, musical expressiveness, ease of use; these are the things we believe are essential to the design of an affordable keyboard instrument. Kurzweil's new PC3LE6 combines the amazing sound quality and performance control features of our enormously successful PC3 with a new streamlined, intelligent user interface, providing an interactive experience that is bound to inspire creativity.
It's The Sound...

Under the hood, the PC3LE features the same groundbreaking chip technology that has made the PC3 the most talked about keyboard in recent years. All of the PC3's sounds are included - the famous Kurzweil grand piano, vintage electric pianos, Clavinets and Mellotrons, dazzling Orchestral and Strings collections, stunning VA virtual analog synths, KB3 organs, realistic basses, drums, guitars, percussion and horns, General MIDI, plus nearly 200 new programs developed specifically for the LE; over 1050 programs in all. We've improved the method for navigating through such a massive sound set; programs in the LE can be viewed and selected with a new set of Category buttons. Select "Leads" and you'll see a list of all the synth leads in the machine, grouped together. Same goes for the other 20 categories, everything from Synth Bass to Mallets to Guitars.

These programs take advantage of our V.A.S.T. synthesis engine, using pristine samples paired with detailed programming of literally hundreds of synth and effects parameters. Whether it's the rosin of a bowed string instrument, the resonant harmonics of a piano's damper pedal, or the thumps and squeaks of an electromechanical keyboard, we've done our homework and provided a level of detail and realism that can only be found in a Kurzweil. Which means you can focus on the important business of making music.

The PC3LE6 comes equipped with over 700 onboard effects chains from which to choose, all with real-time controllers already assigned to relevant parameters. With world class reverbs that decay into complete silence, warm, classic sounding phasers, flangers and choruses, and burning, saturated distortions, you'll have everything you need to make your music sound like a polished, finished product from the outset. The PC3LE6's architecture provides up to 10 insert effects, which can be distributed among 10 channels, with an available auxiliary effect as well.
Interactive...

In the PC3, we introduced the "INFO" feature, a soft button-press that allows the user to see which controllers have been assigned to parameters within a program. For the LE, we've taken this to the next level, with an interactive user interface that communicates directly with you whenever you move a real-time controller. Turn a knob, hit a button or move a wheel and the LE's screen will display the controller, its real-time value and the parameter being affected. An example would be moving the modwheel on an organ program - you would see the following: "Modwheel 79 Distortion Drive". This system never breaks down - you can change effect chains freely and all of this info remains intact, updated to reflect the new chain you've selected. Also, this info is transferred seamlessly to Setup Mode - you can see whatever controllers have been assigned to programs used in any zone of a setup.
Customizing Your Sound...

Prefer to spend your time playing over sound-programming? Think of the LE as the preset-player version of the original PC3. All the sound, no deep programming necessary.

At the same time, we wanted to give users the quickest, simplest possible way to adjust the PC3LE's sounds to suit individual tastes and needs. In any given program or effects chain, select relevant parameters have been pre-assigned real-time controllers for easy access. Move a controller and hit the SAVE button - no menus, no pages with endless parameters - and you get one touch sound customization.

Also, we understand that flexibility is important when it comes to customizing your sound. Don't want filter frequency control on a knob? Prefer to have it assigned to the modwheel? No problem. The PARAMETERS page allows you to re-assign any controller to any available* parameter. You can save your custom sounds to the user bank, with over 1000 ID slots.

*available parameters are predetermined and vary per program
A Different Drummer...

With the PC3LE6, we're introducing a new set of dynamic physical controllers - 8 backlit, velocity-sensitive drum pads that can be used to trigger sounds, sequences, chords and arpeggiations. Every program in the machine has a drum kit assigned to the pads, so you'll always have access to a rhythm track when you need it. As a bonus, we've included a set of over 100 new drum programs, with acoustic brush kits, slammin' rock kits and a number of heavily effected techno/electronic kits, in addition to the 24 existing kits from the PC3. Just as we put a great deal of effort into making sure that our keyboard action feels just right, the drum pads were implemented with precision and care, with utmost attention given to how they feel when played. After all, this is a musical instrument and not just a piece of technology.
Everything Else You'd Expect...

Complimenting the LE's new features are a few old familiar Kurzweil favorites; Setup Mode, Quick Access Mode and Song Mode, all taken directly from the PC3.

Setup Mode enables the LE to act as a powerful MIDI controller as well as providing 16 simultaneous, independent, fully programmable arpeggiators, with factory and user-programmable patterns. On top of that, each setup can have up to 16 simultaneous Riffs - sequences that can be triggered by buttons, drum pads or notes on the keyboard. While Setup Mode, with up to 16 zones each with its own program, is still as powerful as ever, we've added a Split/Layer button to make the creation of simple setups quick and easy.

Quick Access Mode allows you to create custom banks of 10 sounds that can be accessed by a single button-press. And Song Mode delivers a full-featured 16 track sequencer with all of the powerful editing features that you'd find in a high end workstation - event editing, swing, controller scaling, input quantize, input filter, and chasing controls. User memory provides over 1000 ID slots each for your own QA banks, Setups and Songs.
Connectivity...

Saving, loading and updating the OS are all made easy on the LE with the inclusion of both USB Host and Device ports. You can save your user programs, setups and songs to a USB thumb-drive or directly to a computer. OS updates can be loaded from a thumb-drive or directly from your computer, and of course the LE sends and receives MIDI over USB. Standard MIDI jacks are also included for In, Out and Thru. For audio, the PC3LE6 features high-quality, hum-canceling, stereo balanced analog outputs, with 24-bit DACs as well as a 24-bit stereo S/PDIF digital output at 48K.

Suggested Retail Price: $1695

All specifications subject to change without notice."

""SP4-7 Overview [via]
Kurzweil's SP4-7 is the modern successor to our best selling SP76, which famously combined world-class Kurzweil sound quality with previously unheard of affordability and portability. The updated SP4-7 makes available to more players than ever the same sound set featured in our hugely successful PC3 line of professional keyboards, in an instrument that is slim, lightweight and extremely easy to use.
Good Things Come In Small Packages

Here at Kurzweil, we realize that many musicians have the need for a keyboard instrument that is both compact and lightweight. The SP4-7's enclosure is slender, elegant and easy to lift; once set up it leaves the smallest possible footprint, which means that you, not your keyboard, will be in the spotlight.
Up And Running In Record Time

With a user interface that's intelligently designed to make things as easy for you as possible, the SP4-7 provides the features that are most important, right where you'd want them. Create splits and layers with the touch of a button; select presets and setups from easy to access category and program buttons; quickly adjust effects parameters; everything is laid out so that you can be up and running and making music right out of the box.
No Compromises

While the SP4-7 is the most affordable keyboard that we currently offer, no compromises were made, no corners were cut, when it comes to its sounds. Featuring 128 hand-picked programs taken directly from our acclaimed PC3 line, the SP4-7 delivers the best of the best in every category of sound, with our famous Triple Strike Grand Piano, classic electric pianos and lush strings and orchestral instruments, along with top notch basses, guitars, winds, brass, percussion and drums. Its 16-part multitimbral architecture makes the SP4-7 a powerful tool for writing and recording music in conjunction with an external sequencer or Desktop Audio Workstation.
Icing On The Cake

In addition to utilizing programs from the PC3, the SP4-7 also features dozens of the PC3's professional quality effect chains. Everything from flawless concert hall reverbs and crisp delays to powerful distortion and amp simulation effects add another layer of depth and realism that can only be found in a Kurzweil. The most relevant effects parameters have been mapped to the SP's Timbre knob, so you can customize your sound without having to dive into menus or manuals.

Suggested Retail Price: $1349
Available: Summer 2010

All specifications subject to change without notice."


http://www.kurzweilmusicsystems.com/Product.php?id=207

TONTO Week: Malcolm Cecil, A Tribe Called Red, and The National Music Centre in Calgary

The Story of TONTO Published on Jan 22, 2014 National Music Centre

"The Original New Timbral Orchestra (TONTO), the world's largest analog synthesizer, has found a new home at the National Music Centre in Calgary, Alberta. This is the story of how TONTO went from a dream to a reality, and then found a new life and home at NMC."

Note the above video is from January 22, 2014. You should all be familiar with TONTO.

Update: It has come to my attention that John Leimseider has passed away. He was scheduled to give a TONTO Demonstration with Malcom Cecil on Nov. 17 per below. The demonstration will remain scheduled with Malcom Cecil, however the Synthesis 101 course on Nov. 14 has been canceled.

Details on the event:

TONTO Week puts "holy grail of synthesizers" in the spotlight from November 14-18

Week of activities to feature TONTO co-creator Malcolm Cecil, A Tribe Called Red, Phantom of the Paradise screening, and more

(Calgary, AB — September 13, 2018) After years of careful restoration, the National Music Centre (NMC) will commission one of the crown jewels of its music and technology collection, The Original New Timbral Orchestra (aka TONTO), during TONTO Week from November 14-18.

To commemorate this milestone, NMC will host a week of music programming timed to coincide with Alberta Electronic Music Conference (AEMCON), running concurrently at Studio Bell during TONTO Week. NMC Members receive discounted or free admission to all TONTO Week events (not including AEMCON conference passes), so purchase your membership online today at studiobell.ca/members. Individual tickets are available at nmc.ca/whats-on. AEMCON conference passes are available at albertaelectronicmusic.com.

Members of A Tribe Called Red will be the first musicians to create new music with the legendary synthesizer, and they’ll demo TONTO during a public workshop and incorporate the instrument into an evening Studio Bell After Hours set. “After seeing TONTO for the first time back in 2014, I knew that I had unfinished business at the National Music Centre,” said 2oolman of A Tribe Called Red. “I have been waiting patiently ever since to get my hands on that instrument.”

Malcolm Cecil, one of the co-creators of TONTO, will be in attendance to deliver demonstrations and lectures on the history of the instrument. NMC will also host a screening of the cult classic film, Phantom of the Paradise, in which TONTO appeared, and other activities associated with the instrument.

TONTO is one of the world’s largest analog synthesizers. Created by Malcom Cecil and Robert Margouleff in 1968, its creation marked the first attempt at making a universal language for different synthesizers to communicate with each other, which was a revolutionary achievement. Under the band name Tonto’s Expanding Head Band, Cecil and Margouleff released the highly influential album Zero Time. The album demonstrated the rich, layered sounds of the massive synthesizer and attracted significant attention.

Used on multiple Stevie Wonder and The Isley Brothers albums in the 1970s, TONTO helped shape albums by a long list of notable artists such as Minnie Riperton, Joan Baez, the Doobie Brothers, Quincy Jones, Randy Newman, Bobby Womack and more, and was prominently featured in Phantom of the Paradise.


“I needed to find a home for TONTO that would survive me and where it could be used,” said Malcolm Cecil after NMC acquired the instrument in 2013.

“We made a promise to Malcom to ensure that TONTO would be used again in the creation of new music and that its legacy would live on,” said Adam Fox, NMC’s Director of Programs. “It took several years to properly restore the instrument, and now it’s finally ready to enter its next chapter. We couldn’t be more excited to hear where NMC’s Artists in Residence take TONTO next.”


TONTO WEEK SCHEDULE

CLICK FOR MORE »

BOB MOOG INDUCTED INTO INVENTORS HALL OF FAME

via Moog Music & The Bob Moog Foundation

"It is with great honor that we announce that Bob Moog is one of the United States Patent and Trademark Office 2013 National Inventors Hall of Fame inductees. This is an honor that is bestowed to 'individuals who conceived, patented, and advanced so many of the great technological achievements that have changed our world.'

Bob is being recognized for Patent No. 3475623 more commonly known to Moog fans as the Moog Ladder Filter. Using the new properties provided by transistors, the Ladder Filter was the first voltage controlled filter. By using voltage control such as keyboards and envelopes to steer the harmonic content of music over time, the Ladder Filter allowed new ways of manipulating sound that became part of the basic grammar for a new vocabulary of musical expression.

This humble invention laid the foundation for the electric pulse that beats through all forms of modern music. Bob brought to life basic concepts of dynamic filters used in the mix in every genre of recorded music today. The Ladder Filter allows the organic movement of sound in such a way that people can not only hear its warmth, but also feel its sweep come to life.

Patent No. 3475623 is best known for its use in the Minimoog Synthesizer and its effect can be heard on genre defining albums by artist like Michael Jackson, Kraftwerk, Parliament Funkadelic, Emerson Lake and Palmer, Dr. Dre, Diana Ross, and Brian Eno.

Everyone at Moog Music is grateful to be a small part of continuing Bob's work and the enduring legacy of Patent No. 3475623. We would like thank the USPTO for recognizing Bob's great innovation. This year's induction ceremony will take place May 1st in Alexandria, VA at the USPTO headquarters."


via The Bob Moog Foundation:

"The National Inventors Hall of Fame, founded in 1973, annually honors 'the individuals who conceived, patented, and advanced the great technological achievements since the birth of our nation.' Bob Moog, was identified today on the Invent.org’s website as the man behind Patent Number. 3,475,623, (Electronic High-Pass and Low-Pass Filters Employing the Base to Emitter Diode Ristor for Bi-Polar Transistors).

The organization cites the following:

'In 1964, Moog introduced the first complete voltage controlled modular synthesizer, an instrument capable of producing a wide variety of electronic sounds. The Moog synthesizer helped revolutionize the face of music by giving artists and composers the capability to create a brand new palette of sounds. Composer Wendy Carlos was one of the first to usher the synthesizer into the spotlight with the 1968 Switched-On Bach album. Since then, countless performers and composers have utilized the original Moog synthesizer and the Minimoog®, a smaller, portable version of the original instrument.'

'On behalf of the White House, I add my congratulations to this year’s inductees,' said John P. Holdren, President Obama’s science and technology adviser and Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. 'Your creativity, perseverance, and entrepreneurialism exemplify the American ‘can-do’ spirit.' Mr. Holdren’s quote was part of the press release issued by the organization.

The National Inventors Hall of Fame is the premier non-profit organization in America dedicated to honoring legendary inventors whose innovations and entrepreneurial endeavors have changed the world. Founded in 1973 by the United States Patent and Trademark Office and the National Council of Intellectual Property Law Association, the Hall of Fame will have 487 inductees with its 2013 induction.

This year’s induction ceremony will take place on May 1, 2013 at the United States Patent and Trademark Office’s headquarters in Alexandria, Virginia. The USPTO founded the National Inventors Hall of Fame in 1973 and has been a long-standing partner since the organization’s incorporation as a separate, non-profit educational foundation."

----

Congratulations to Moog Music, The Bob Moog Foundation,  Michelle Moog-Koussa (Bob Moog's daughter who runs the foundation), and of course the rest of his family and friends!  Heck, congratulations to us, the fans of synthesizers!  :)  This isn't something we see every day.

BTW, it's worth noting that supporting Moog Music & The Bob Moog Foundation not only supports the memory and lifelong work of Bob Moog, but they help introduce that world to new people every day.  I like to think of sites like MATRIXSYNTH as supporting the existing community as well as those that have discovered it, but The Bob Moog Foundation brings it to kids that may have never gotten the opportunity to discover our world.  If you can support them, please do.

On a side note, click here for a search on 1963 (a year prior, and the birth of it all) on MATRIXSYNTH. You'll find Korg was formed, Moog and Buchla came out with their modular systems, and other interesting bits happened in the world of electronic music and synthesizers during that time.

Korg RK-100S : Reborn to achieve 100% perfection

Published on Jan 23, 2014 Korg·423 videos

"Appearing in 1984, the RK-100 remote keyboard broke the chains of keyboardists, setting them free to perform as they liked. It allowed the keyboard player to challenge the vocalist or guitarist for the main role on stage. Now, thirty years later, the RK has been resurrected. Although beautiful curved surfaces have been added, the essence of the original and very popular design is unchanged. What had been a somewhat large and heavy body has been made more compact and lightweight thanks to modern components such as a slim keyboard. While the original required an external sound module, the new RK-100S contains a built-in analog modeling sound generator. New features and functions include two ribbon controllers, an arpeggiator, and a vocoder, and there are also "favorite" buttons that allow you to register frequently-used sounds for one-touch selection. The RK-100S is your choice for smarter, more active, and more enjoyable performance. Enjoy play anywhere performance utilizing AA batteries. The RK-100S Remote Keyboard is available in White, Black & Red.

For more information on the KORG RK-100S, head over to http://www.Korg.com

Like Us - https://www.facebook.com/korgusa
Follow Us - https://www.twitter.com/korgusa"

"WINTER NAMM SHOW, ANAHEIM, CA, January 23rd, 2014 - Korg (Booth 6440 / Hall A) is debuting the RK-100S synth/controller for the 30th anniversary of the original RK-100. Korg's latest keytar offering provides an alternative to traditional keyboards by allowing players to step out from behind a keyboard and into the spotlight. Housed in a stylish, solid wood body, the battery-powered RK100S offers a number of additional updates from the original model. Equipped with a full palate of keyboard sounds from the built-in microKORG XL+ engine, it enables users to perform in a wide variety of music genres wherever inspiration may strike. It also functions as a USB/MIDI controller, as well as a vocoder.

There are 200 programs available in the onboard MMT sound generation system, including a broad range of oscillator algorithms such as the characteristic sawtooth and square waves found in analog synthesizers, plus formant waveforms, noise, and classic PCM/DWGS waveforms.

In addition to the 37-note slim keyboard (as featured on the Korg MS-20 Mini), a short ribbon controller on the neck and a long ribbon controller in front of the key bed are included for controlling parameters such as pitch and filter. The long ribbon runs the entire length of the key bed and can also be used to play scales over three octaves. Also included is a built-in arpeggiator, with six arpeggios available. Notes in the arpeggiator can be individually switched on/off, for even more rhythmic variation.

The RK-100S comes equipped with a vocoder function that lets players use their voice, via the optional headset mic, to process the sound of the oscillator.

The Korg RK-100S synth/controller runs on six AA batteries or the optional AD adaptor and is available in a choice of three colors: red, white and black. It will be available June 2014, with U.S. pricing to be announced shortly. For more information, please visit www.korg.com."

Update: NAMM floor video:

Kraft Music - Korg RK100S NAMM 2014

Published on Jan 23, 2014 Kraft Music·389 videos

Dave Smith Instruments "In The Spotlight with the OB-6" with Body in the Thames

The next in Dave Smith Instruments' "In the Spotlight with the OB-6" is up with Body in the Thames here.

"Born in Manchester, lived 8 years in London, 2 years in Paris and now 13 years in Stockholm, Body in the Thames is quite the journeyman. From composing jingles for Microsoft CD-ROMs, to soundtracking Haute-Couture catwalk shows to playing in stoner rock garage bands with (then) future stars, to being a multi-instrumentalist on tour with well-established international stars, he is an artist who has been around the block enough times that he doesn’t need to namedrop any more.

Now a little older and more of a studiohead, he has spent the last few years in an actual former cold-war nuclear bunker under the Stockholm streets, crafting and releasing electronic explorations that cover a fairly broad range of genres and sub-genres which are mainly instrumental and 'aimed at the dancefloor between your ears.'"

You can find previous posts featuring DSI's Spotlight series here.

Behringer MS-101 on eBay

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

via this auction

Two for $329.99 each. Estimated delivery between Tue. Mar. 26 and Tue. Apr. 2. Go through eBay for the buyer protection on these to be safe. That said, it looks like these are going to be available soon. Be sure to check out the dealers on the right here on MATRIXSYNTH for stock.

We also have the full product description:

"Analog synthesizer with 32 full-size keys, 3340 VCO with 4 simultaneous waveforms, VCF, ADSR, 32-step sequencer, arpeggiator, and live performance kit

The 1980s and 90s spawned a new “wave” of synth performers including Devo, The Chemical Brothers, The Prodigy, The Crystal Method and a host of others, all empowered by the sound of a simple strap-on instrument that let keyboardists steal the spotlight away from their guitar- wielding bandmates. An ultra-affordable homage to that iconic synthesizer with all the features of the original and then some, such as a 32-step sequencer, arpeggiator and live performance kit, the Behringer MS-101-RD Synthesizer lets you conjure up virtually any sound with incredible finesse and ease. With its 32 semi-weighted full-size keys, pure analog signal path, authentic 3340 VCO with 4 simultaneously-mixable waveforms, plus extremely flexible VCF and VCA filters, the MS-101-RD is sure to become your favorite keyboard. Owning the MS-101-RD is like having your own personal time machine, enabling you to embrace the past – or make your imprint on the future!

True to the Original

CLICK FOR MORE »

Parallella: A Supercomputer For Everyone on Kickstarter

http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/adapteva/parallella-a-supercomputer-for-everyone
If the Kickstarter video causes your mouse to disappear, click off screen and it should come back.

Note the video and project is not directly focused on synthesis, however the application (like the iPad as a synthesis platform) should be obvious. The following is a write-up on that potential in via reader cheater:

"I'm in no way affiliated with those guys, but this thing opens so many possibilities for the synthesis aficionado that I have to let you know what's in store. Why is this cool? Simply put, it's a Kickstarter for an open platform which could enable synthesis methods that are currently not possible, unless you lug around an expensive workstation, and put them in a desktop-module style case. For those intents and purposes it's a self-contained system with a 45 GHz CPU, the size of a DVD box.

Below are some examples of synthesis methods that could work out thanks to the radically different way this thing works. Each of those is slow on current PCs and because of the parallel nature of the chip in question are tons faster to execute on it:

1. granular synthesis. Ever try to run one of those in VST? They sound better the more parts you can have. Current PCs can only run so many parts, and you need thousands per voice. This thing could easily run a polyphonic synthesizer.

Here are some demos of what you can do with a granular synthesizer:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jgcVr6lTzDs
http://www2.camelaudio.com/music/AlchemyAnalysisDemo02.mp3
http://www2.camelaudio.com/music/Alchemy-PresetDemo-JohnLehmkuhl.mp3
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hTODhn-UROc

See how Alchemy only allows 10 grains per voice? You could have an order of magnitude more, with each grain bank (Alchemy has 10) modulated separately.

More:

CLICK FOR MORE »

Dave Smith Instruments "In the Spotlight with the Prophet 12" with Melissa Mattey

As a follow-up to the "In the Spotlight with the Pro 2" series, DSI has launched a new "In the Spotlight with the Prophet 12" interview series. You can find the first with Melissa Mattey here.

"In a town known for its strong work ethic and an overabundance of world-class musicians, Melissa Mattey may be one of the hardest-working creative talents in Nashville. A graduate of Berklee College of Music, with a focus on synthesis and recording, Melissa deftly juggles three careers without missing a beat. By day she’s an in-demand mix and recording engineer for a broad array of artists including Van hunt and Cam. By night she’s synthesist and composer for the electro-ambient trio Everyone Moves Away. And the rest of the time she’s handling keyboard chores and producing records for Indie favorites, Elliot Root. Did we mention that she tours with both of the aforementioned bands, as well?

We caught up with Melissa in a rare free moment."

You can find previous posts featuring DSI's Spotlight series here.

Arturia Announces V Collection 7 w/ EMS SYNTHI & Casio CZ-101 Based Synth Engines

Published on Apr 25, 2019 Arturia

Update: mini press release added below.
Update2: User videos added below.

"24 timeless instruments lovingly recreated in #software, and modernized with contemporary features. This is the most comprehensive anthology of classic #synth and #keyboards ever made. This is decades of passionate research, modelling, and development. This is your chance to take your place in music history."

Playlist:
Arturia announces | V Collection 7
Arturia announces | Synthi V
Arturia announces | CZ V
Arturia announces | Mellotron V
Arturia announces | B3 V 2
Tutorials | Synthi V - Episode 1: Overview
Tutorials | CZ V - Episode 1 : Overview
Tutorials | Mellotron V - Episode 1: Overview

New Synths in V Collection 7

Synthi V
BRITISH SILVER MACHINE

Synthi V completely captures the spirit of the unique analog synth that burst out of ‘70s London to inspire the entire emerging electronic music world—and it has new superpowers to inspire your world today.

Synthi V brings you all the experimental excitement of EMS’ legendary 3-oscillator analog synths—now infused with thoroughly modern enhancements. Venture beyond unusual lead and bass sounds to create soundscapes and sci-fi effects ranging from beautiful to bizarre and everything in between.

The British-born EMS family of synths—featuring the sonically identical Synthi AKS and VCS3—were among the first to distill modular synthesizer functionality into a more portable form. Where most competitive designs like the Minimoog sacrificed flexibility to size and simplicity, EMS retained a modular heart through the genius of one of the first matrix patchbays to grace a synth. That additional versatility led to more experimentation outside of melodic norms and into the more electronic realms of psychedelia and sci-fi effects. Cue Pink Floyd’s “On the Run” from “The Dark Side of the Moon” LP.

Synthi V is the perfect evolution of the synth that turned a lot of heads. Now you can use it to turn some heads of your own.

Main Features
A component-level model of the EMS Synthi AKS
3 oscillators with waveform mix, noise generator, 18 dB/oct resonant filter, output section with spring reverb modelling
Modular architecture, allowing to route signals in unexpected ways
Ring Modulator, loopable Envelope Shaper, 2 axis Joystick and Sample and Hold modules for advanced modulations
Original keyboard sequencer module with sync to DAW tempo
2 matrix behavior modes: modern and vintage for cross-talk simulation
5 assignable voltage functions to create multi-point envelopes and LFOs synced to DAW tempo
Advanced joystick automation module for modulating parameters in a 2D space
Matrix pin amounts modulations possibilities (with 4 independent groups)
10 effects, Reverb Phaser, Flanger, Chorus, Overdrive, Delay, ...
Up to 4 voices of polyphony
Over 250 factory presets

CZ V
PHASE DISTORTION CULT CLASSIC
The budget synth that became a legend in its own right. The instrument that brought the digital synth revolution to the masses is now at your command.

A simpler kind of powerful digital synthesis

Released in 1984, the CZ-101 was Casio’s answer to the wildly popular Yamaha DX7. It was significantly less expensive and infinitely easier to program than its rival. Instead of frequency modulation, Casio’s phase distortion (PD) used various user-selected waveforms to modulate the timing of simple carrier waves at the cycle level in order to create more complex wave shapes. This simplified form of digital synthesis made it comparatively easy to perfect a wide variety of timbres spanning warm pads, natural percussion, buzzy digitalia, sci-fi effects and even analog synths. While PD could sound similar to FM, it also had a unique sonic signature all its own.

The CZ sound helped propel artists like Salt-N-Pepa, Was (Not Was), and Vince Clarke into the spotlight. Let’s add your name to the list.

Classic Casio Phase Distorsion
+ cutting-edge Arturia modeling
= infinite sonic possibilities for you

Imagine a virtual instrument that realistically models every nuance of the CZ-101—and with four times the polyphony and zillions more presets. What if it gave you an intuitive graphic interface that unlocked of all the hidden jewels in this unique digital synth? And what if it now had additional envelopes, filters, LFOs, effects, and extensive beat-sync-to-host parameters? Oh, and what if you could interconnect all that via a new super-flexible modulation matrix? We’ve faithfully reproduced the instrument that brought ‘80s pop to new heights.

Yeah... we did that!

Main Features
Two synthesis lines and independent noise source
All CZ-101/CZ-1000 original parameters
8 original waveform and custom waveform editor
Original CZ SysEx import
CZ, DADSR and Multi-Segments envelopes (syncable and loopable) to control pitch, DCW and amplitude
2 Modulation envelopes
4 assignable macros
Advanced modulation matrix
A Sample and Hold module, 2 LFOs with 6 waveforms, 3 sources combinators and an Arpeggiator
4 FXs slots that can be routed in serie or per synthesis line
A synthesis line state viewer for real-time feedback
Emulation of the original CZ DAC
32 voices of polyphony
Up to 8 voices of unison with unison detune
Over 400 factory presets

Update: and the mini press release:

"Arturia have announced the arrival of the latest edition of V Collection : their flagship anthology of reimagined historic synths and keyboards.

Containing 24 premier software instruments and thousands of preset sounds, V Collection 7 is the must-have reference for musicians, producers, sound designers, and keyboard fans.

Legendary keyboards reinvented
In V Collection 7, Arturia have used cutting-edge modelling techniques to create the most accurate software versions of dozens of time-honored instruments. Their exclusive True Analog Emulation® (TAE) and advanced physical modelling put these legendary instruments at your fingertips as software. Over 100 years of music history are now yours to explore, and use to shape the sound of the future.

Launch offer
To celebrate its release, and only for a limited time, V Collection will be available for an incredible price. Whether you are new to Arturia products, want to upgrade from a previous version of V Collection , or own any other Arturia products, you will have access to an exclusive deal that will put the very best synth and keyboard recreations ever made at your fingertips.

Intro offer from $399/399€, ends June 10th.
Street price $499/499€

NEW INSTRUMENTS

MELLOTRON V
LEGENDARY TAPE KEYBOARD
The original instrument redefined what keyboard players could do, unlocking the doors to orchestral and choral sounds at the touch of a key. Arturia’s reinvented versions not only features all original Mellotron tapes, but also lets you import and play your own samples with authentic tape emulation.

SYNTHI V
BRITISH SILVER MACHINE
The quirky British “silver machine” that put a new spin on modular synthesis, reborn in software with exciting new tricks up its sleeve. Advanced component modelling let Arturia model even its wild, unpredictable nature, with advanced modulation and powerful effects added to the mix.

CZ V
PHASE DISTORTION CULT CLASSIC
The budget synth that became a legend in its own right. The instrument that brought the digital synth revolution to the masses is now at your command. Easy to program phase distortion synthesis with custom editor, huge modulation potential and awesome effects.

EXCITING UPDATES
ANALOG LAB 4
INSPIRE, CREATE, COMBINE, AND PERFORM
A treasure trove of amazing synth and keyboard sounds with effects, easy to browse, fun to control, with a new built-in live mode. Your go-to choice for inspiration and performances.

B-3 V 2
THE MOST POPULAR ORGAN REBORN
Our recreation of Hammond’s legendary organ has received a total sound engine overhaul, making it the most authentic, vibrant electric organ virtual instrument ever.

SYNTHOPEDIA
CUTTING EDGE PRESETS
Over 800 brand new, modern sounds created for legacy V Collection instruments. The hottest synths and chart-topping keys are yours to explore.

Arturia have created a series of promotional videos and tutorials to whet your appetite, and get you familiar with the exciting new instruments. Each software instrument also features an in-app tutorial mode, too! Just another one of the fantastic new features in V Collection 7.

To discover more about Arturia V Collection 7 , the stories behind the vintage instrument recreations, and to start your free trial, visit the Arturia website."

Update2: First user videos:



Arturia V Collection 7 - Played by a LEGO Robot - Carl-Mikael's Cabinet of Curiosities
Arturia SYNTHI V Synthesizer (EMS Synthi AKS Emulation) First Look & Sound Demo - SYNTH ANATOMY
Arturia MELLOTRON V First Look & Sound Demo - SYNTH ANATOMY

Dave Smith Instruments "In The Spotlight with the PRO 2" with Ephriam Nagler

You'll find the third interview in Dave Smith Instruments' "In The Spotlight with the PRO 2" with Ephriam Nagler here.

"Ephriam Nagler, born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area, obsessed with audio and photography, can be seen at airports around the world arguing his DSI Pro 2 and Prophet 08 into the main cabin. He performs under his own name as a synth-pop soloist and also performs with his brother, Judah Nagler, in The Velvet Teen. While residing in the Pacific Northwest over the past 7 years, he has been producing records at Robert Lang Studios, Red Room, and Dub Narcotic Studios of K Records. Submitting to his constant itch for travel, he is the touring front of house engineer for The Thermals, The Good Life, Suuns, and is at this very moment on the road with Russian Circles.

We caught up with Ephriam to talk about about how he’s using his Pro 2."

You can find previous posts featuring DSI's Spotlight series here.

Roland Jupiter-80 Compared to The Classics - JUPITER Synth Legends Soundset

Published on Nov 28, 2012 by rolandmedia

Remember you can flip through each via the player controls.

Download JUPITER Synth Legends Volume 1 for free:
http://www.JUPITER-80.com

Update: Also check out the Roland AR blog for a post and comments.

Playlist/Comparisons:
JUPITER Synth Legends - Introduction
JUPITER Synth Legends - JUPITER-8 Comparison
JUPITER Synth Legends - TB-303 Comparison
JUPITER Synth Legends - SH-101 Comparison
JUPITER Synth Legends - JUNO-60 Comparison
JUPITER Synth Legends - JUPITER-6 Comparison
JUPITER Synth Legends - JUNO-106 Comparison
JUPITER Synth Legends - D-50 Comparison
JUPITER Synth Legends - Performance
JUPITER Synth Legends - Tutorial
JUPITER Synth Legends - Sound Preview

Roland Jupiter-80s on eBay

Update:  The official Press Release:

"Los Angeles, CA, November 28, 2012 — Roland is proud to announce JUPITER Synth Legends Volume 1, the first in a series of free sound libraries for the JUPITER-80 and JUPITER-50 synthesizers featuring a wealth of authentic vintage sounds from some of the most legendary and iconic instruments in Roland’s history.

The collection uses Roland’s powerful and flexible SuperNATURAL® synthesizer sound engine to capture the essence of historical Roland synths and showcases all-new Tones, Live Sets, Registrations, and arpeggio patterns. The Live Set architecture and multi-effects of the JUPITERs are fully maximized, giving players a huge selection of “dream” synth combinations comprised of the most legendary synths ever created.

JUPITER Synth Legends Volume 1, the initial release in the series, honors these seven legendary Roland instruments from the 1980s:

• JUPITER-8 (1981) • JUNO-60 (1982) • D-50 (1987)
• TB-303 (1982) • JUPITER-6 (1983)
• SH-101 (1982) • JUNO-106 (1984)

These classic synths each have between 10 and 20 iconic factory preset sounds that distinguish their character, and they’re all represented among 123 newly created single Tones for the JUPITER-80/-50. There are 512 new Live Sets also included that combine the historic synths together using layers and multi-effects processing. Many Live Sets feature single legacy Tones, enhanced with effects unavailable in the original instruments, and nearly 300 new arpeggio patterns are included that are perfect for a wide range of contemporary electronic music genres.

The inspiring sounds made by these classic instruments have helped shape modern music, and now players can access them all inside the JUPITER-80/-50. Future JUPITER Synth Legends volumes will feature the sounds from other sought-after analog classics and spotlight the three vintage LPF types available in the JUPITER-80/-50.

Download the free sound libraries here:
www.JUPITER-80.com

In honor of the release, Roland is hosting the Roland JUPITER #SynthLegends Giveaway. Synth fans in the U.S. can enter the contest for a chance to win a JUPITER-50 fully pre-loaded with all the sounds from the JUPITER Synth Legends Volume 1 sound collection. Synth fans are also being encouraged to join the conversation with @Roland_US on Twitter using the hashtag #synthlegends to share all-time favorite synthesizers and synth sounds."

Dave Smith Instruments "In The Spotlight with the Prophet-6" with Karina DePiano

The next interview in the Dave Smith Instruments' "In The Spotlight with the Prophet-6" series is currently up with Karina DePiano here.

"Karina DePiano is a Los Angeles-based pop keyboardist and musical director. She currently performs with Troye Sivan. She spent the latter half of 2015 touring the U.S. and Asia with Rita Ora. In 2014, Karina toured with Bad Things, a band that boasts double-Olympian Shaun White as one of its guitarists. The band supported Phantogram in the southeastern U.S. and Thirty Seconds To Mars in Romania, Russia, Estonia, and France. In June of 2014, Karina was the musical director for vocalist Tricia Tahara-Stoller for a show at the Catalina Jazz Club that featured Ndugu Chancler, Alphonso Johnson, and Patrice Rushen. Karina has also recently performed with pop act Megan Nicole, the Filipino American Symphony Orchestra, and at the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books. Karina’s playing style has always been heavily influenced by R&B, funk, and pop acts such as Stevie Wonder and Prince. She credits her experience at USC’s Pop Program as the most valuable foundation to her career."

You can find previous posts featuring DSI's Spotlight series here.

Dave Smith Instruments "In the Spotlight with the Tempest" with Bear’s Den

The 3rd in the Dave Smith Instruments' "In The Spotlight with the Tempest" series is currently up with BEAR’S DEN here.

"Inspired by, among other things, the paintings of Edward Hopper, the short stories of Raymond Carver, and film director Robert Altman’s Short Cuts, Bear’s Den is both erudite and intensely personal, defying trends and easy labelling. Musically, it also sees a startling progression. Following the amicable departure of guitarist Joey Haynes they are now a six piece touring unit built around a nucleus of Andrew Davie and multi-instrumentalist Kev Jones. While the band’s folk roots are still evident, they now come cloaked in the lush alchemy of ‘70’s and ‘80’s FM rock: Fleetwood Mac, The Eagles, and in particular, the nocturnal ambience of Bruce Springsteen’s Darkness On The Edge Of Town, alongside more contemporary artists such as The National, and Sufjan Stevens."

You can find previous posts featuring DSI's Spotlight series here.

RIP Ikutaro Kakehashi, Founder of Roland

via Tommy Snyder:

"Ikutaro Kakehashi, founder of Roland, father of the TR-909, TR-808, Godfather of MIDI, and someone who I have collaborated with for 38 years, and also considered him as my 2nd father, passed away at the age of 87. He was a super funny, wonderful and gifted human being, and his contributions to the musical instrument world , and music, touched millions of people worldwide. RIP dear Taro.........."

This was shared only 5 hours ago. I am not seeing an announcement from Roland. I will update this post if anything new comes in.

Sad day today. Another legend and hero lost.

Update: added a few videos below including a pretty nice tribute. If you know of any other good videos featuring Ikutaro Kakehashi, send them in.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Dave Smith Instruments "In The Spotlight with the OB-6" with Andy Walker

The first interview in the Dave Smith Instruments' "In The Spotlight with the OB-6" series is currently up with Andy Walker.

"Andy Walker is a producer, writer, and mix engineer based in Nashville, Tennessee. In addition to his work with local artists, he is heavily involved in the worship keyboard community as the User Content Manager for Loop Community, a company that produces multitracks for churches. He is also a sound designer for That Worship Sound, a site that produces synth patches. Andy just finished an electronic record under the moniker The Alphabet Zero, collaborating with local singer/songwriter Kellie Besch and electronic artist Makeup and Vanity Set, the album comes out January 13th, and is available to preorder now. Andy used the OB-6 while writing and tracking the album."


You can find previous posts featuring DSI's Spotlight series here.

Sharing Sounds With Omnisphere 2 - Spectrasonics Releases Omnisphere v2.1 Update

Published on Aug 4, 2015 SpectrasonicsVIDEO

"Learn how to import user audio and share your own patches using the new sharing capabilities of Omnisphere 2.

Click on this link to download the files for this video.

http://bit.ly/1hhYy9c"

Update: And the press release for the v2.1 update:

"Spectrasonics Releases Omnisphere v2.1 Update
Power Synth adds simplified user sound sharing and Library Publishing for third-party development

Burbank, CA - August 4, 2015 - Spectrasonics has released Omnisphere 2.1 with a streamlined 'Sharing' feature for sharing user sounds and a new Library Publishing capability. Version 2.1 is an update to the company's recent v2 upgrade of its flagship software synth. In May, Omnisphere Version 2.0 was released with vastly expanded new synthesis and creative capabilities for sound design, along with significant user interface innovations, and thousands of new sounds. The new v2.1 update, a free download to Omnisphere version 2 users, includes refined patch and project sharing features for easily exchanging custom sounds between end-users directly or over social media, a Library Publishing feature allowing third-party sound developers to create easily installable sound sets for Omnisphere 2 users, as well as a much improved boot time for the plugin itself. Both the Sound Sharing and Publishing features can contain 'User Audio,' offering new horizons in patch creation and simplified collaboration.

"It's exciting to see the Omnisphere universe expanding with so much great sound development work in so many areas, from EDM to rock, and film and TV scores to games," says Spectrasonics' Founder and Creative Director, Eric Persing. "And now third- party developers of patch sets for Omnisphere 2 have a simple way to create and offer custom libraries that can include their own soundsources, and are easy to install for customers. There's no need for installers or complicated instructions for moving files around directories deep in the system folders. And because it's so easy to share sounds and ideas now, we feel this will be a huge boon for social media user groups discussing tips and patch creation. This is a big opportunity for our users everywhere. We look forward to seeing and hearing what develops!"

Sharing sounds is simplified in Omnisphere 2.1, the end-user can simply shift-click on a few Patches or a few Multi-patches and then save them to be transferred to a friend or musical collaborator who also has Omnisphere 2. Sharing patches automatically includes any user audio, which is especially convenient with custom patches. Sharing multiple types of Patches, Multis and user audio all at once is easier too, with Project sharing; the end-user can just collect a set of sounds in a project, and then share the project.

The new "Publish Library" feature in v2.1 was created for third-party developers of Omnisphere libraries. It allows developers to easily export, or "publish" a library of Multis and Patches, along with any associated user-created Soundsources, as well as graphic images for the custom library in a single .omnisphere file format. End-users can then easily install this package into their systems with a single step.

Beyond the new sharing features in v2.1, the Version 2 upgrade released in May, includes a host of new capabilities including the most requested Omnisphere feature: Audio import for user-created soundsources-along with major new oscillator features including over 400 new DSP Oscillator waveforms, morphing Wavetables, new granular synthesis options, over 4500 unique new sounds created by Spectrasonics' acclaimed sound design team-bringing the total to over 12,000 total sounds and patches, 25 new FX units, an enhanced User Interface, and innovative production/browsing features such as Sound Match(tm) to instantly locate any related sounds in the library, and Sound Lock(tm) to create endless useful patch variations by locking sound aspects while browsing other patches-among many other innovative features.

Omnisphere 2.1 Feature Overview

New Sound Sharing and Publishing capabilities in v2.1:
• Easily share patches and projects between users, which can include User Audio
• Publish a library of patches and Multis including User Audio, graphics and more
• Share Sounds over social media

Faster Boot Time for Omnisphere 2.1:
• Opening the plugin inside any DAW on Macintosh or Windows is much speedier

Vast New Synthesis Possibilities in Omnisphere 2:
• Audio Import - Users can import their own audio file as a soundsource in Omnisphere
• Over 400 New DSP Waveforms for the Synth Oscillator - an increase of 100X
• Wavetable Synthesis - Each Waveform is now a Morphing Wavetable
• Powerful New Granular Synthesis algorithm
• Deeper FM/Ring Mod capabilities for aggressive timbres
• 8 New Filter Types - New Power Filters, Vowel, Resonators
• New Unison Drift models Analog Polysynth behavior
• Expanded Modulation with new sources and many more targets
• Polyphonic LFO and Modulation Envelope options
• Soundsource Reversing

Now includes over 12,000 sounds:

CLICK FOR MORE »

Diggin' In The Carts - Documentary on the Composers of Japan's Original Video Game Music

Published on Aug 28, 2014 Published on Aug 28, 2014

This one in via swissdoc. This is a playlist of trailers and excerpts from Diggin' In The Carts, a documentary on the composers of classic video game music. The first video is a good intro. The third video is an excerpt from the documentary. Forward to 5:35 and turn on CC for English subtitles in this video for the technical bits. Don't miss the waveforms at 6:49. Great stuff.

YouTube description:
"Watch the full series here: http://www.redbullmusicacademy.com/diggin

Diggin' In The Carts is a new series from Red Bull Music Academy about the untold story behind the most influential music to come out of Japan.

For many of us, the music of video games played more in our households growing up than any other form of music. Over six episodes Diggin' In The Carts shines a spotlight on the composers who created a style of music that has had an immense impact on modern pop culture. From the personal studios of these legendary composers, to the concert halls of Japan where symphony orchestras are performing their compositions to sold-out crowds today - the series will document how the music of video games was created, what inspired it, and how it evolved into its own cultural phenomenon. Peppered with commentary from some of modern music’s finest DJ’s, musicians and electronic producers from around the world, the documentary also shows the influence these Japanese composers had on the world - and the world of music.

@RBMA
#diggininthecarts

Music Credits:

WALTZ OF MEDITATION PART 2
Hitoshi Sakimoto
Magical Chase - (c) (p)1991 SQUARE ENIX CO., LTD. All Rights Reserved.

BLOODY TEARS
Konami Sound Team
Castlevania II Simons Quest - (C)Konami Digital Entertainment

HEBEREKE
Naoki Kodada
Hebereke - (C) Sunsoft"

Sequential In The Spotlight Interview with ANDREI KUDRYAVTSEV

You can find the interview on Sequential's website here.

"Unlike many Sequential artists who play their trade in the studio or on stage, Andrei Kudryavtsev labors largely behind the scenes as a technologist. With a Computer Science degree and a background as a classically trained pianist, he’s combined his two passions into a lifestyle as an Intel engineer and a synth tech/home studio maven. As Andrei puts it: “Everything that I’m working on falls into one of those categories and when it’s somewhere in the middle that makes me the happiest. The world of music and technology opened up for me when I got my first synthesizer 20 years ago. Fast forward to the present and I’m a Solutions Architect for Intel, working on Solid State Drives that power the leading edge of that technology. But by night I’m in my studio, immersed in the world of synthesizers. I enjoy repairing vintage instruments, especially early digital ones, as they are computers on their own. There are generally no standards, different architectures, and in every case there is a real catch to overcome hardware limitations. I’m known for my work on sampler restoration — instruments such as the Fairlight Series II/III, EMU Emulator I/II/III, Kurzweil 250, the original SCI Prophet 2000, the Synclavier, and many more. Each of them are unique in many ways including their sound. All of this was sort of the groundworks for my involvement with Sequential and the Prophet-X.”

We chatted with Andrei about the SSD used in the Prophet X."
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You can find previous posts featuring Sequential's Spotlight series here.

Dave Smith Instruments In The Spotlight With the REV2 and Cypriot Pianist Nicolas Melis

You can find the full interview on DSI's website here.

"Cypriot Pianist Nicolas Melis enjoys an international career performing as a concert soloist as well as a keyboardist. At a young age, he represented Cyprus at the international music festival Steinway for Young Pianists in Hamburg, Germany. A graduate of the University of Music and Theater “Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy,” Melis, who has studied Piano Performance in Classical music and Contemporary Improvisation, has won numerous competition awards both at a national and international level including the 1st Prize at the International Piano Competition for young musicians of H.O.N in Athens, Greece and a special prize at the 1st international piano competition of E.P.T.A. in Zagreb, Croatia amongst others.

He is a founding member of Cyprus’ leading blues band, The Zilla Project, who released their first album This One’s for the President in 2014. The band has successfully collaborated with a number of international artists including Adam Levy (USA), Bex Marhsall (UK), Gil Edwards (N0R), The Blues Wire (GR), and Panos Mouzourakis (GR). After having toured Greece in 2016 they perfomed at the Palais Des Natios in Geneva, Switzerland and enthused their audience with three more performances in the city. The band has also performed in London and headlined the August Full Moon festival in Crete.

Recently Melis collaborated and recorded keys for Loizos Pafitis’album The Underdog, and is slated to record for alternative rock band Belua’s second album. The Zilla Project’s next album is expected to be released in 2019.

We chatted with him about how he’s using the Prophet Rev2."

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You can find previous posts featuring DSI's Spotlight series here.

Sequential In The Spotlight Interview with ROB COTTINGHAM

You can find the interview on Sequential's website here.

"Once described by Geoff Barton of Classic Rock Magazine as “Peterborough’s answer to Vangelis,” Rob Cottingham started his musical career in high school, later forming the rock band Cinema. In the early 90’s, he gigged with an R&B band and formed the cover group, Ghost. Itching to write his own material, Rob produced his first album “Behind The Orchard Tree”(BTOT) released in 2002. From there he founded the group Touchstone, who went on to release one EP, four albums, a double live album and a live DVD. The group hit the UK rock album charts at number 34 in 2011 and number 26 in 2013 after being signed for two albums. The band toured UK, Europe and USA.

In 2016, Rob formed Cairo, keeping the same sensibilities in song craft, but with heavier guitars and more electronica in the sound. Cairo’s debut album “Say” was released to rave reviews, including a recommendation from Steve Hackett of Genesis. The band won Classic Rock Society’s Best Newcomer Award a few months later. Rob released a solo follow up to his earlier album BTOT with “Back Behind the Orchard Tree” in April 2019, and soon after, Cairo released a live album “Alive In Holland” in January 2020. Their next studio album is planned for late 2020.

We chatted with Rob on how he uses the Prophet-6 in his music.

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You can find previous posts featuring Sequential's Spotlight series here.