"Pigments 5 is the latest edition of Arturia’s flagship modern software synth with the power to create any sound, from the best mix-ready presets to deep custom sound design. The 5th edition brings more ways than ever to design, sculpt, modulate and arpeggiate your sound."
"We explore the new features in version 5 of Arturia's flagship instrument Pigments, along with the newly released Liquid Explorations and Beats Explorations preset packs.
00:00 Introduction
00:27 External Audio Input
03:44 New wavetables
05:30 New Sequencer features (presets, random, lock)
07:02 Liquid Explorations presets
09:54 Beats Explorations presets
12:53 Conclusion"
Arturia Pigments 5: New Atmospheric Presets Demo. No Talking
"Arturia have just released the update to one of the most powerful synths - Pigments. Now it's version 5. They added new sequencer and oscillators features, more wavetables and samples, the ability to pass and process external audio, and other improvements.
This is a short video with some of my favorite presets from the new Pigments 5 collection.
Get the update and have fun with the new sounds.
A revolution in modern synthesis, Pigments’ approach to sound design is as intricate as it is accessible. Now with more ways than ever to craft those hard-hitting sounds.
CPU Pigments 5
Reduced CPU consumption
Pigments now utilizes multi-core processing for greater CPU efficiency, allowing more users to explore this powerful softsynth with ease.
Process any audio with Pigments
You can now process external audio in Pigments from the Utility engine, by routing the sound to the instrument through the track sidechain input. Additional FX routing options have also been integrated.
Compose in style
Pigment’s refreshed interface includes an improved play view, with new visualisers and other UX enhancements.
Melodize any sound in 1 click
Explore the new generative sequencer, featuring one-click sequence generation and new play modes, as well as saveable presets and sequence browsing. Make use of the sequencer lock to apply your sequence settings to any sound.
New curated content and sounds
Discover a selection of 100 new factory presets alongside new wavetables and samples in Pigments 5, comprising more than 1500 sounds.
New preset expansions
Explore an exclusive selection of sounds with Explorations; 3 new sound banks including 150 presets in each, showcasing a range of bold, colorful and expansive sounds that Pigments is renowned for.
"The NI404 is an innovative, open-source sampler and sequencer from soundpauli - nspired by the classic Etch-A-Sketch, tailored for beginners and DIY enthusiasts. Designed around the Teensy Microcontroller and Audioboard from PJRC, this device offers an accessible entry point into the world of music creation.
The NI404 is more than just a musical instrument; it's a journey into the world of sound exploration, perfect for live performances, studio sessions, or simply having fun creating music. Whether you're a seasoned musician or a curious beginner, the NI404 is your gateway to an exciting world of musical possibilities."
THE OPEN SOURCE SAMPLE-SEQUENCER FOR EVERYONE.
The NI404 is an innovative, open-source DIY sample-sequencer from soundpauli - inspired by the classic Etch-A-Sketch, tailored for beginners and DIY enthusiasts. Designed around the Teensy Microcontroller and Audioboard from PJRC, this device offers an accessible entry point into the world of music creation.
The NI404 is more than just a musical instrument; it's a journey into the world of sound exploration, perfect for live performances, studio sessions, or simply having fun creating music. Whether you're a seasoned musician or a curious beginner, the NI404 is your gateway to an exciting world of musical possibilities.
KEY FEATURES
EASY TO USE. With its playful design, the NI404 lets users create complex sound patterns without any prior knowledge of musical instruments or equipment. It's perfect for beginners and makers alike.
DYNAMIC CONTROL DESPITE LESS BUTTONS. At the heart of the NI404 is a vivid 16x16 RGB LED panel display, paired with three intuitive rotary-push encoders. Navigate a cursor across the grid, where each row signifies a voice and each column a potential note, allowing for up to 16 pitches per note. This feature enables the mixing of up to 8 voices simultaneously.
REAL-TIME INTERACTION. Adjust samples, instruments, pitches, notes, volume, BPM, velocity, and effects in real-time without pausing. This seamless interaction makes the NI404 an ideal gadget for live performances.
CORE COMPONENTS. Teensy 4.1 Microcontroller and Teensy Audio board (4.0) 8MB PSRAM Flash Memory 3 Rotary-push encoders 16x16 RGB-LED Panel driven by FastLED 3.5mm audio jack and removable SD Microcard slot CREATIVE FLEXIBILITY. Etch-A-Sketch style note drawing On-the-fly note deletion and sample muting Adjustable volume, BPM (40 - 200), pattern, and note velocity Up to 30-second sample length with seamless looping Use your own samples on the SD-Card - in a simple file structure Load up to 8 voices / samples (Wav format) plus an additional onboard synth voice 16-bar patterns across 8 pages, totaling 128 bars per song Save and load up to 100 patterns / songs on the SD card Autosave and autoload functions SAMPLES AT YOUR FINGERTIPS: THE BUILT-IN SAMPLE BROWSER. Access and manage samples while playing, with support for up to 999 samples on the SD card and the ability to predefine multiple voices as a SampleSet.
FULLY INDEPENDENT. Operates without a computer, generating all sounds on the device itself. USB powered (5V) and Arduino code is published under the MIT License.
Important: The NI404 does not include speakers or Bluetooth connectivity; headphones are recommended. Because of licensing: please use your own sample files (folder structure is included).
READY FOR MORE. Potential updates include USB-MIDI In & Out, AI-powered song / pattern generation, WiFi connectivity, and a new aluminium casing.
HARDWARE LIST Custom PCB - to connect the encoders to the Teensy (but you can also hard wire everything): see Downloads
"The popular Korg digital synth family is now available in module form, catering to the needs of musicians and producers in need of these incredible new sound sources but who demand more flexible setup options and do not necessarily need a keyboard.
Can be rack mounted (height 4U) or can be placed on a table at several angles (15 or 45 degrees). Supports MIDI 2.0 Property Exchange as well as AfterTouch."
"Experience hands-on, fun music-making with this DIY, easy-to-assemble synthesizer and effects generator. The compact and incredibly powerful NTS-1 mkII now offers an array of new features: refreshed interface, more customization options, new keyboard, built-in sequencer, fresh sounds, expanded MIDI capabilities all in the palm of your hand. (Tool included, no soldering needed)."
"Please support my work on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/jayhosking A live, semi-improvised synthesizer jam performed entirely on hardware.
I went to the store to try out the Sequential Prophet Rev2 for fun, but they didn't have it set up on the floor.
"You should just take it home," the rep said. "Bring it back within 30 days if you don't want it."
So here we are, with the Prophet Rev2 at home. I love having so many voices that so easily can be panned into a binaural sound. The keybed and layout are fantastic and I just like playing it. The sound is great except when it isn't; something about the full-open filter or resonance is displeasing in a mix, though I often don't mind it on its own. Here, I made a binaural patch, with the same synth sound hard panned to left and right sides, but slight variation in the DCOs and "slop" (terrible word) leading to a very rich stereo feeling. One of those rare beautiful things you can do with only some polysynths (and software, of course).
In short, the Prophet Rev2 is a wonderful synth to explore with something of a frumpy sound, for better and for worse.
I was noodling on some chords and wanted accompaniment, so I started with the Cosmos (for some asymmetrical looping), and then took out my melodic eurorack skiff. It's been a while since I had it on the table, so it was nice just to hear these sounds again. Eurorack just leads me to places and sounds I might not otherwise find.
Ultimately, this jam came together in a day, and I'm always a little worried about those ones, because you might not like them as much the next day. So far, though, I'm pretty happy with it.
Thanks for listening.
Sequential Prophet Rev2 - pads Walrus Sloër - reverb for Rev2 Soma Cosmos - looping for Rev2 Eurorack: Qu-Bit Chord V2 through Endorphines Squawk Dirty to Me - organ sort of sound Frequency Central Product - droning analog voice 4ms Ensemble Oscillator through Make Noise QPAS - hyperspace organ Effects are described in the video, and include Happy Nerding FX Aid XL, Noise Engineering Melotus Versio and Desmodus Versio, Intellijel Multi-FX 1U ALM Busy Circuits Pamela's New Workout - modulation for all the voices
Performed and recorded live, with EQ, compression, and limiting on the master.
"Full Disclosure: I occasionally take on freelance work at Sonicware on an hourly rate producing synth & sample sound design, beta testing, checking English text, video manuals etc. This video wasn't paid for directly but as a result of my work with Sonicware it is marked as Paid Promotion
So someone asked me in the comments (@ArtFluids) If I could make a demo track on the Liven MEGA Synthesis using just the PSG tracks, so here it is. Using the Liven MEGA like this makes it sound quite a lot like the 8 Bit Warps, but I'm only using a very small part of it's feature set. I've restricted myself to not playing notes with the square below an A2 like the original hardware, but it can actually play lower than that. Also no FX at all.
The Liven MEGA Synthesis seeks to recreate the audio capabilities of the SEGA Mega Drive / Genesis. So the Sega Mega Drive was built upon the hardware in Sega's previous console, the Master System / Sega Mark III. The sound capabilities of that machine were 4 channels of audio consisting of 3 square wave channels and 1 noise/pulse (under quite specific restrictions). So the Mega Drive / Genesis contained that sound chip too and was mostly used during music to add layers of square waves to the sound or noisy percussion, it was rarely used up front.
The MEGA Synthesis emulates that chip and users can program it from 2 dedicated tracks. So you're a little restricted in the fact that a track can only play one sound at once, though using automation you can change the sound on the fly. Using automation, Track 5 is playing drums and a pulse bass (on even steps only but somehow that still sounds fine 🤷♂️) while Track 4 plays everything else which must use the same envelope, modulation settings etc at any one moment. So it's more restrictive in some ways than original hardware, but also it's less restrictive in other ways like allowing 4 voices of noise, square or pulse to play at the same time. So like most of the features on the MEGA, it captures the overall sound without being overly concerned about super specific technical restrictions."
"Full Disclosure: I occasionally take on freelance work at Sonicware on an hourly rate producing synth & sample sound design, beta testing, checking English text, video manuals etc. This video wasn't paid for directly but as a result of my work with Sonicware it is marked as Paid Promotion
7 days into Jamuary 2024 and I've only managed 2, not really what I'd planned! But at least now the reveal of the Liven MEGA Synthesis is out of the way I can upload some jams using it. Plus this isn't an official Sonicware video, so I can mention the fact that it's designed to emulate the experience of making music on the Sega Mega Drive/Genesis hardware unlike in my last video, hopefully to the surprise of almost nobody 😄
I didn't create any fresh patches for this jam, it's all just presets and there's plenty to choose from (including my work of course).
From this video you should be able to hear that the general lo-fi vibe of the YM2612 has been replicated nicely. Part of that is due to a design flaw in it's 9 bit DAC which distorted the sound at quite volumes, often called the Ladder Effect. You can turn that on and off per track on the MEGA.
Apart from the delay on the lead sound I'm not using any effects here, the distorted guitar lead sound is created using just FM synthesis. On the original Mega Drive/Genesis adding delay would have had to be done by duplicating notes onto another channel of the chip using up polyphony, but the MEGA has an effects section so this is a regular guitar pedal like delay effect."
Is it The Vanilla Synthesizer or the muSonics TVS?
I started working on this project a year and a half ago.
Originally my thought process was to make a new American format synthesiser that could be sold as modules, kits, and bare boards. I was concerned about the future of the format, and I felt a new line of basic modules and infrastructure at a variety of price points was important. I still do.
STG Soundlabs was a failure because I made things that ultimately the eurorack market simply did not want. Yes, I sold some, and will continue to maintain the line as best as I can, but it's very hard to find photos of eurorack installations with STG Soundlabs modules in them, but rare to find a nice big man-sized synthesiser without my modules in it.
Another thing I wanted to do was teach myself how to do my own engineering. It didn't start that way, but it became that way. I'd been a hardware product developer since 2005 but never actually laid out a circuit board. That is no longer true, and I've done things beyond this project that I haven't even talked about.
"Hey Hey, Friends! This track came about from the Hardware Jams Facebook Group's weekly challenge, which this week was to make a jam at 180bpm or greater. No other guidelines. No other restrictions, just make it FAST!
Tempo: 180bpm
Key: Fminor
The vocal sample is from Venus Theory (Sound Designer, Electronic Musician and YouTuber)"
"When I made the popular YouTube series 'FM Catalogue of Materials', many viewers commented that they would love to see some more of the 'music tech as cinema' style created in the videos.
My new project 'Luminous Trilogy' release, does exactly that. In part 1 'WTD', synths and synth technical diagrams, together with Pure Data/Max patches, become casual parts of the film's environment, which is set in an alt near future. Part 1 was realised with analogue modular, whereas Part 2 "Breath" was scored using binaural audio, VCV rack and live Indian tablas. Part 3 'Contrails' uses physical models, Samplicity's Berlin Studios and vintage FM hardware."
Update: Element433 has made the VCV patch and assets used in the film "Breath" below a free download. You can find instructions on downloading the patch and setting it up here: http://tinyurl.com/e433WpBrvcv.
"Three music shorts around the theme of light, from incandescent urban folklore set in the near future, electric neon glowing medussae to impossible skies, all to the sound of dark ambient and techno-world music"
Playlist:
Walking The Dulzaina - Luminous Trilogy - Part 1
Walking The Dulzaina is an edited one-shot music film which details the manic walkthrough time-lapse of an imaginary synthesised dulzaina (Spanish folkloric instrument) being taken for a walk through the "Las Vegas" like dressed streets of a small village festive celebration set somewhere in the near future.
The visuals are nods to the Bladerunner, Lynch, Weirdcore and Kubrick where the glow of transparent neon CRTs, display technical diagrams with a music technology theme. Some suddenly slide up from the ground, while others cross from one side of the street to another.
The music is inspired by minimalism, industrial techno synth-folk where Steve Reich and Techno meet Raymond Scott and 1960's BBC radiophonic.
Musical Equipment Detail:
Intro: Moog Subharmonicon through Fairfield Randy's Revenge ring modular - into two crunchy Elby Systems stereo valve preamps and out into a stereo pair of Doepfer A-199 spring tanks).
Dulzainas: Buchla Easel Command sometimes untreated and sometimes solo through a J.H. 'Son of a Storm Tide' stereo analogue studio flanger (built by Van Daal Electronics (second dulzainas and very low transition whoooses).
Buchla and Subharmonicon sync locked and clock divided by Ornaments and Crime clock divider.
Final wormhole sequence: Subharmonicon through stereo A-199 Doepfer spring reverbs and Paulstretched.
This work is not sponsored by any the manufacturers mentioned. They are personally purchased pieces of equipment.
A versatile machine with an impressive set of features, K.O.ii is the new champion in and outside the studio.
UNRIVALED BY ANYTHING IN ITS CLASS, this is the sampler you've always wanted at THE incredible price of just $299
Get ready for round 2
Meet the evolution of the world's most sold sampler. based on the legendary PO-33 K.O!, the new EP–133 K.O.II adds more power, more sampling capabilities, a fully reworked sequencer and brand new punch-in 2.0™ effects. introducing a workflow that lets you go from idea to TRACK faster than ever.
It's pocket operators gone pro.
Knock out features
9 projects each with 80,000 notes
projects contain 4 groups, each with 99 patterns
patterns have 12 TRACKS for samples and MIDI
variable pattern length per group (1 to 99 bars)
12 mono / 6 stereo voice polyphony
use groups to mix and match patterns on the fly
record and automate all 12 fader assignments
sequence in free time or quantized with swing
assign any pad to one of 16 MIDI channels
loop mode from OB-4 with length AND slide
12 pressure and velocity sensitive pads
instantaneous timE correction and erase
slice samples LIVE OR AUTOmatically
stereo / mono sampling at 46.875 kHz / 16-bit
punch-in 2.0™ effects (PRESSURE SENSITIVE)
arrange quickly using the instant commit feature
32-bit float signal chain, 24-bit ADC / DAC
SYNC IO FOR EXT. GEAR. 8TH, 16TH NOTE OR SYNC24
6 built-in send fx and a master compressor
drag and drop samples using the sample tool
Get started with the new EP-133, K.O.II by Teenage Engineering (Tutorial)
Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 00:58 Hardware overview 02:19 Assign
sounds to pads 03:08 Navigate sounds by typing 04:01 A quick glance at
the "menus" 04:33 Live recording a beat 04:52 Setting pattern length
in bars 05:16 Start recording from any bar 05:34 Recording "free"
unquantised 06:20 Erasing a track 07:05 Quantising an unquantised
recording 08:12 Step sequencer 08:54 Edit sound envelope 09:27
Edit sound amplitude 09:46 Replace a sound 09:59 Sample from the built
in mic 11:23 Trim a sound 12:01 Punch-in record 12:13 Sample a
vinyl form the line input 13:01 Chop a sample 13:47 Groups 14:20
Layers 14:35 Play chromatically with Keys mode 15:18 Edit sound play
mode 15:48 Use a MIDI keyboard 15:47 Record a longer pattern,
unquantised 17:32 Punch-in quantisation 18:13 The fader 19:52
FX 22:30 Punch-in FX 25:00 Looper 25:47 Setting the tempo 26:03
Having fun 26:20 Patterns 26:56 Commit and duplicate "scene" 27:48
Edit a duplicate pattern 29:08 Getting lost in the music 30:44
Recording the fader - jamming on 31:00 Jamming on… 31:36 The KO
2000 31:49 9 Projects 32:17 MIDI sequence an external synth 35:47
Looper affects MIDI out 36:19 Yeah!
"Full Disclosure: I occasionally take on freelance work at Sonicware on an hourly rate producing synth & sample sound design, beta testing, checking English text, video manuals etc. This video wasn't paid for directly but as a result of my work with Sonicware it is marked as Paid Promotion
I recently completed some new patches as part of the work I'm doing on the Sonicware ELZ_1 play so I thought it would be nice to demo them here as I've been asked quite a lot about it since it was first announced.
This is still prototype hardware though don't expect any radical changes at this point just refinements. Also this is unfinished firmware too so I'm not sure how many features will be added before release compared to what's shown here, but there are some nice additions like the unison setting that make playing around with the old synth engines fun too. The Super Osc is a one of the new engines so you'll see that throughout the video."
"In this video about Schlappi Engineering's THREE BODY I try to explain and demonstrate the multitude of functions, modulation options, inputs and outputs. There's sound examples scattered throughout the video to break up the monotony of me talking all the time.
THREE BODY is so very versatile and due to it's precise logic based core functionality it's very straightforward to dial in precise FM or PM tones that are usually quite impossible to achieve with regular analog vcos. If you want the dirt of waves bulking and crashing into each other (regular 'free' fm and pm), it's just a flick of a switch and you're there.
Because it's a very long video please have a look at the chapter markers at the bottom of this description box. Those should make it easier for modern crowds to navigate the video. You can of course go retro and just sit back and enjoy the show, but you might have to pause the video halfway to fetch drinks and icecream (and possibly for a bathroom break).
"No-Fi is a cassette tape loop studio sim made to revolutionize your creativity with warm lo-fi sound and striking simplicity!
No-Fi is not a plugin and no other software is needed, it’s standalone:
Plug your instruments, record and mix, just like the real hardware.
You have one mixer, five cassette/loop recorders, one handy reverb and one delay. That’s it!
No-Fi carefully simulates the peculiar nostalgic vintage sound of cassette loops with all the warmth of tape saturation, noises and playback irregularities that characterize the sound of true lo-fi loops.
Choose between Ferric, Chrome and Ferrochrome tapes, add background hiss, tape age and saturation, then control azimuth errors, wow, flutter, tape catch and speed to recreate an authentic lo-fi experience.
"No-Fi is a tape loop studio software made to revolutionize your creativity with warm lo-fi sound and striking simplicity!
No-Fi is not a plugin and no other software is needed, it’s standalone:
Simplicity here is paramount.
Plug-in, record and mix, just like the real hardware.
You have one mixer, five cassette recorders, one handy reverb and one delay. That’s it!
No-Fi carefully simulates the peculiar nostalgic vintage sound of cassette loops with all the warmth of tape saturation, noises and playback irregularities that characterize the sound of true lo-fi loops. Choose between Ferric, Chrome and Ferrochrome tapes, add background hiss, tape age and saturation, then control azimuth errors, wow, flutter, tape catch and speed to recreate an authentic lo-fi experience.
The input channels can be used with synthesizers, guitars, bass, microphones, electroacoustic instruments etc. and can load a VST/AU plugin such as a guitar amp. Alternatively you can load a virtual VST instrument and play it with your midi keyboard! The cassette tape loops can record up to 1 hour of sound each, or if you want you can import your own loops from your computer.
Tape your loops and hear the magic!
And it’s not just five tape recorders, it works as a loop station! Plug in a midi switch controller and use it as a digital looper, with an analog heart."
"These are all 100 patches from my new Waldorf Quantum and Iridium sound bank in one go. This package is called
'Classic Poly Layers' and it contains pure VA sounds ('Waveform' oscillator model) for these awesome machines. Of course, all patches use mod-wheel and aftertouch.
The best: these patches are perfect for layering. Just put two of these sounds on both layers of the Quantum or Iridium to create a fat and complex sound. This way, you can create 10,000 (100 x 100) new and exciting combinations!
I modeled these sounds after a well-known synth from around 1980, but I won't say which one to dodge criticism. But maybe you can guess which one it is. It would make me happy in any case. Feel free to post your guess in the comments!
Here you get a continuous mix of all patches, recorded directly onto three DAW tracks, without additional hardware or software effect processing - just pure Quantum MK1 (only internal effects)!
Get these sounds in the shop (EU only): https://www.frequture.net/shop/"
This is demo mainly to show how easy it is to program this synth thanks to the amazing work Bob Grieb (Tauntek) did by rewritting the firmware and enabling Midi Control Changes messages on this synth.
The only drawback (due to the hardware) is you have to retrigger a note for every change you make on a parameter, except for a few ones that a real time (resonance, DCO and LFO waveshape for instance). Just a minor annoyance compare to the original programming method (which is actually not the worse of that kind).
The BIT99 and BIT01 are very nice sounding and quite comprehensive 6 voice analog synth. They feature 2 DCOs with triangle, sawtooth and pulse waveform, in octave from 32 to 4 and you can combine the 3 waveforms on each oscillator. Dedicate ADSR enveloppes for filter and amp with velocity control, 2 LFOs, noise generator, split or stack possibilities etc
IMO they only lack a mixer for the 2 oscillators, LFO PWM (though you can control the PW with velocity) and a hi pass filter.
But the sound is very nice, I favore it over the Oberheim Matrix 6 for instance. It sits very easily in the mix.
Build quality and keyboard are also of upper level."
"Enjoy this sound demo video showcasing sounds available in the new Yamaha MONTAGE M Series Synthesizers.
0:00 - 0:36 : AN-X Syn Orch Pat - AN-X Poly Synth with Polyphonic Aftertouch
0:37 - 1:00 : Hamburg Grand - AWM 2 Concert Grand Piano
1:01 - 1:19 : Sweet Synths - AN-X Poly Synth
1:20 - 1:48 : RD 67 Smooth - AWM2 1967 Tines E. Piano
1:49 - 2:10 : Classic Mini Sawlead - AN-X Mono Lead
2:11 - 2:35 C7 + Analog String Ensemb - AWM2 Yamaha C7 Grand Piano + AN-X String Ensemble
2:36 - 2:55 : Poly Dreams - AN-X Poly Synth
2:56 - 3:10 : SFZ Tremolo BPM Sync - AWM2 Tremolo Strings
3:11 - 3:49 : Distant Memories - AN-X Poly Synth
3:50 - 4:11 : Drawbar Organ - AWM2 Organ with YC Series VCM Rotary Speaker effect
4:12 - 4:29 : FM Piano + Soft Pad - FM-X E.Piano + Soft Pad
4:30 - 4:45 : Synthpop Forever - AN-X Poly Synth
4:46 - 5:05 : U1 Upright - AWM2 Yamaha U1 Upright Piano
5:06 - 5:31 : Dum Drum Bass - FM-X + AWM2 Poly Synth
Yamaha presents our next-generation flagship Synthesizer: MONTAGE M. Featuring three engines that create a variety of sounds – ultra-realistic instruments, vintage analog synths, and cutting-edge FM synths. For keyboardists, synthesists, and pianists, MONTAGE M seamlessly bridges stage and studio, unlocking new possibilities for sound, control and workflow."
NEW AN-X ENGINE
A revolution in authentic analog sound, control and behavior, the AN-X engine recreates the warm, classic sound of an analog synthesizer with a host of sophisticated modulation options.
･Three Oscillators with 5 waveforms (Saw 1, Saw2, Triangle, Square and Sine) and Noise Generator
･Two filters with 10 filter types
･Pulse width modulation
･Oscillator Self Sync
･Ring modulation, FM, and wave shaper
･Amp EG with drive
･LFO for both amplitude and filter,
･Voltage drift and aging settings to simulate vintage synth behavior
Integrated into the Motion Control system, the AN-X Engine allows you to create expressive, unique analog sounds to your heart’s content.
Improved AWM2 Experience realism and detail with MONTAGE M’s improved AWM2. Offering an incredible 128 Elements per part, AWM2 allows for smoother transitions, giving you an expansive canvas for ultra-high-definition sound creation, especially for “nameable” sounds such as piano and strings.
400 NOTE TOTAL POLYPHONY A significant upgrade from the original MONTAGE’s 256 notes, MONTAGE M offers up to 400 notes of polyphony across its three engines:
･128 notes for AWM2 Preset Waveform Parts
･128 notes for AWM2 User Waveform Parts
･128 notes for FM-X Parts
･16 notes for AN-X Parts
And more about sound AND MORE [PRESET WAVE AND FLASH MEMORY UPGRADE] MONTAGE M offers twice the memory over its predecessor with an increase from 5.67GB to 9.97GB of Preset Wave memory, and an increase from 1.75 to 3.8GB of User flash memory. Plus, you’ll find a host of new sounds and instruments, including pianos, orchestral instruments, drums, and more!
[FM-X] MONTAGE M rekindles the Yamaha legacy of expressive and dynamic FM Synthesis with its 8-operator FM-X engine, offering a wide variety of diverse tones: from crisp and bell-like, to edgy and aggressive, to mellow and evolving. This is an excellent complement to the AWM2 and AN-X engines.
[VCM ROTARY AND DRAWBAR BEHAVIOR] Using sophisticated modeling technology, the VCM Rotary Speaker effect simulates the rich and enveloping motion of a classic rotary speaker cabinet. Plus, the new organ drawbar fader setting simulates the vintage “pull out” drawbar organ behavior.
[16 LIBRARY LOCATIONS] With 16 Library slots at your disposal, you can house up to 10,240 additional Performances (that’s in addition to the over 2,700 performances in the presets), facilitating quick searches by Category, Name and Attributes.
[PURE ANALOG CIRCUIT 2] The upgraded Pure Analog Circuit included in MONTAGE M reduces noise and improves the dynamic range, crosstalk, low-frequency phase, and distortion rate, resulting in clearer sound at all volumes. You’ll also find the sound has more detailed low-mids and presence.
GEX ACTION WITH POLYPHONIC AFTERTOUCH (MONTAGE M8x ONLY) Available exclusively on MONTAGE M8x, GEX Action elevates your performance and sound creation with Polyphonic Aftertouch – a revered synth control found in the legendary CS-80 and DX1. Polyphonic Aftertouch allows you to individual modulate held notes with pressure. GEX also provides key repetition behavior typically found in grand pianos.
NEW PERFORMANCE CONTROLS MONTAGE M introduces new performance controls: a 5-segment ribbon controller with dedicated HOLD button, a new KEYBOARD HOLD button for sustaining chords while using knobs to edit, and a Portamento on/off button and dedicated Portamento time knob.
DEDICATED KEYBOARD, PART AND SCENE CONTROL You’ll find dedicated Keyboard, Part and Scene Control buttons to control 16 Parts per Performance. This intuitive control, particularly beneficial for live performances, improves overall usability and adds dimension to each Performance.
AND MORE [HIGH-RESOLUTION CONTROL] All the Performance Controls – from the Keyboard and Faders to the Super Knob and Sustain, as well as the Sound Engine, are now in High Resolution. Because of the fine resolution, you’ll find the MONTAGE M behaves in a smoother and more “analog” way.
[MOTION CONTROL SYNTHESIS ENGINE]This groundbreaking engine allows you to interact with sounds in a variety of ways, including Motion Sequences, which dynamically automate synth and effect parameters, and can even be synchronized to tempo; the Super Knob, which controls dozens of modulations in a single gesture; the Envelope Follower, which modulates sound from the A/D input or another Part; and many, many more ways!
[NEW AND IMPROVED LED LIGHTS AND COLORS] Enhanced LED lights and colors on MONTAGE M faders, Performance, Live Set and Category Search offer visible, instant feedback, vastly improving the user interface.
WORKFLOW
Expanded Creativity
EXPANDED SOFTSYNTH PLUGIN (E.S.P.) (COMING EARLY 2024)
A game-changer for musicians, the Expanded Softsynth Plugin (E.S.P.) replicates the MONTAGE M in your favorite Digital Workstation (DAW). Free for all registered MONTAGE M owners, E.S.P. allows you to create, edit and mix MONTAGE M Performances anywhere you happen to be – without the hardware – offering an unprecedented level of stage and studio integration. We are planning on releasing E.S.P. in Early 2024. The first version will have all the MONTAGE M sound while being limited to basic editing. The full version will be available in Summer 2024.
FASTER, MORE INTUITIVE NAVIGATION
Upgraded navigation enables quick, intuitive sound editing and operation. You’ll find features like a new 512 x 64 LCD screen, 6 touchscreen display knobs, and a PAGE JUMP button that moves what’s in the LCD screen over to the larger 7” TFT Color touchscreen for deeper editing. And the dedicated Navigation button shows an overview of a Performance. Just touch a graphical object in the screen to jump to that parameter for deeper editing. The dedicated Navigation button allows you go directly from the “surface” of a sound to the deepest part.
USB MIDI AND MULTICHANNEL AUDIO INTERFACE
Simplifying your studio setup, MONTAGE M offers a USB MIDI and multichannel 32 output/6 input audio interface. Streamline MIDI recording, virtual instrument monitoring, and multi-track audio recording through a single USB cable, so you can spend more time being creative.
AND MORE
[FASTER UI] MONTAGE M’s UI is significantly speedier than the previous generation. Plus, the overall look is cleaner and easier to see.
[CATEGORY SEARCH] Search for Performances by Category (Piano, Keyboard, etc.), Sub Category (Acoustic, Vintage, etc.),Name, and Attributes (AWM2, FM-X, AN-X, etc.).
[TWO USB-TO-DEVICE PORTS] Allows simultaneous connection of a flash drive (or drives!) and USB MIDI controllers.
[DEDICATED DAW REMOTE BUTTON] Use your MONTAGE M as a hardware controller for DAWs such as Cubase, Logic, ProTools and Live. Control the mixer, transport, softsynth plugins and more.
[NEW SHIFT BUTTONS] Two new Shift buttons make it effortless to access secondary functions, increasing overall functionality.
[COLOR-CODED BUTTONS and SLIDER LAMPS] Backlit LIVE SET and CATEGORY buttons are colored differently and clearly show mode function. New slider lamps show red LED value increments, while active Parts are illuminated in blue.
1. Synthfest UK 23: MyVolts - Nifty USB Power Solutions
At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with Caroline from MyVolts, and they've added to their panoply of useful power solutions for musicians. MyVolts showcased their new product, the Alchemist power distribution hub, which harnesses the versatility of USB-C to deliver various voltages from 5V to 20V. This means you can power a range of equipment, from vintage synths to modern gear, with one device. They've also taken their USB power innovation to the next level with a step-up 12V power tip, allowing users to draw 18W from USB to power gear like the Electron Analog Four on the go. MyVolts aims to simplify power management for musicians, addressing issues like earthing and noise, and they're actively seeking input from the community to fine-tune their solutions.
In addition to the Alchemist power hub, MyVolts will be releasing their own power banks, USB-C power cables with wattage indicators, and a range of power tips compatible with various voltages. This expansion means users can power a wide range of devices efficiently and conveniently. These products are expected to be available around February or March. MyVolts encourages you to fill out their survey to help them better understand and solve the unique power challenges musicians face.
2. Synthfest UK 23: Rides In The Storm - SED CSM Synth Voice
At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with Uwe from Rides In The Storm to get a glimpse of their upcoming modular synth voice module, the SED CSM. This module is a powerhouse of sound design possibilities, offering a wide range of features packed into a single unit. With two oscillator sections, three waveform options, pulse width modulation, and a wave folder, there's plenty of sonic flexibility on tap.
The SED CSM also includes a robust mixer section, a ring modulator, wave folder, noise source, and an external input, expanding its sound-shaping capabilities. Uwe demonstrated how the module can be used for lush soundscapes and dynamic modulation with its various features. SED CSM offers envelope generators with loopable modes and versatile LFOs and filter options.
We returned to the Analogue Solutions booth to chat again with Tom who showed us the second synth he’s released this year, Ample. Ample is a 3 VCO synth which combines some of the greatest bits of other Analogue Solutions synths, including a patch pin matrix similar to the Vostok, a sequencer taken from the generator, an interval generator similar to that on the Fusebox, and a 24dB filter akin to that of the Pro One. It even has the same delay circuit from the new Maximus.
There are 3 types of pin for the pin matrix with resistances of 0 ohms on the black pin 10k ohms on the red one and blue giving a value of 100k, which allows for more flexibility in attenuating the signals you patch. Tom told us that Ample is particularly suited to percussion, with its snappy filter, and various clock sources available, and though Ample is in a desktop format, Tom has given us plenty of space between the controls so no accidental knob bumping can occur.
Available October 23
Ample Price: around £2000 plus vat
4. Synthfest UK 23: Expert Sleepers - Analogue Modules
At Synthfest UK 2023, we had the chance to chat with Os from Expert Sleepers, known for their versatile digital modules. However, Os has been exploring the analog side of modular synthesis and has introduced a range of eight analog modules.
Among the analog modules, Os showcased a squelchy filter, oscillators with unconventional sine wave cores, and an intriguing octave fuzz effect. He emphasized that these analog modules offer a different approach to sound generation and signal processing compared to their digital counterparts. Os also pointed out that once an analog module is designed and built, it's a finished product, offering a sense of completeness that's distinct from the continuous updates often associated with digital modules.
Expert Sleepers Analogue modules Prices: from £159
5. Synthfest UK 23: Yamaha - DM3 - Super Compact Digital Mixer
At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with Chris from Yamaha to take a look at their latest offering, the DM3 digital mixer. This compact 16-input mixer packs some impressive features into a small footprint, making it suitable for a variety of applications. With a focus on pro audio and audio versatility, the DM3 boasts brand-new microphone preamps inspired by Yamaha's high-end CL and QL series, ensuring top-notch audio quality. Operating at 96 kHz, the DM3 offers pristine audio resolution.
We have to admit, we're all Gassing for this one...
The DM3 boasts a touchscreen interface, complemented by touch-and-turn knobs for tactile control. This innovative combination allows users to efficiently navigate and control the mixer's parameters. The DM3 can also serve as an audio interface, providing 18 in and 18 out over USB, making it an excellent choice for recording and streaming applications. With a compact and portable design, this mixer is versatile enough for live gigs, corporate events, podcasting, and studio work.
DM3 Standard Model Price: Around £1,500
DM3 Dante-Enabled Price: Around £2,000
6. Synthfest UK 23: Tone Science - Triple Cross - Chance Delay
At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with Ian Boddy from DIN Records, known for his prolific work in the electronic music scene. While DIN Records is celebrating its 25th anniversary next year, Ian has expanded his creative endeavors with the release of two modules under the sub-label Tone Science in collaboration with AJH Synth. The Triple Cross module offers versatile signal manipulation capabilities, enabling crossfading, morphing, panning, with non-synchronous LFOs and DC-coupled outputs. The Chance Delay module introduces a unique concept of probability-driven gate delay. Musicians can control the likelihood of triggers passing through, allowing for rhythmically intricate and ever-changing sequences. These modules are designed to enhance the performative aspect of modular synthesis, providing musicians with dynamic tools for evolving soundscapes and rhythmic complexity.
Triple Cross Price: £260
Chance Delay Price: £175
7. Synthfest UK 23: 1010 Music - Bluebox Eurorack Edition
At Synthfest UK 2023, we had the opportunity to chat with Steve from 1010 Music about their latest creation, the Bluebox Eurorack Edition. This module was born out of customer demand, as users of the original Blue Box desktop unit clamored for a Eurorack-compatible version. The Bluebox Eurorack Edition packs all the power and versatility of the desktop version but with a few key differences. It offers mono inputs and outputs that can be combined into stereo, six CV inputs for mapping to various parameters, and two dedicated USB-C ports—one for MIDI and the other for USB audio. This means you can connect your Blue Box to a Mac, PC, or iPad, send and receive audio tracks, and still record all 12 tracks, plus a master track and two effects sends, separately on a micro SD card. An upcoming firmware update will also bring stereo audio in both directions to the Blue Box Desktop Edition, offering even more flexibility in routing and recording. With its compact 30 HP size and thoughtful design, the Bluebox Eurorack Edition also offers a clock output bridging the gap between hardware and software seamlessly.
At Synthfest UK 2023, we had a conversation with Tim from Nonlinear Labs, the creators of the highly expressive C15 synthesizer. Tim shared some exciting updates that have recently been implemented with the inclusion of LFOs via looping envelopes providing musicians with more sonic versatility. The C15's unique concept, based on a two-operator FM synthesis engine, remains intact, but these new LFO capabilities expand its sonic palette. Tim also showcased the expanded key tracking options, which can stretch pitches to create unique tonal textures. Furthermore, he highlighted the new twin-engine feature, which allows for cascading delays and creating captivating stereo soundscapes. Tim also hinted at future developments that owners of this expressive synthesizer can look forward to.
C15 Black Price: 4,300 Euros (incl. VAT)
C15 Cherry Wood Price: 4,750 Euros (incl. VAT)
9. Synthfest UK 23: Kenton - LNDX Midi Line Driver
At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with John from Kenton Electronics to check out their latest offering, the LNDX Line Driver, a handy solution for extending MIDI signals over long distances. Designed to address the challenges of maintaining stable MIDI connections in large venues and studios, the Line Driver utilizes Cat5 cables to transmit MIDI signals up to an impressive 500 meters. It's an ideal tool for live gigs in massive stadiums or situations where the control center is far from the performance area. The Line Driver features LEDs to monitor both the incoming and outgoing MIDI signals, providing essential feedback for troubleshooting and ensuring signal integrity. This straightforward and robust solution adds reliability to any MIDI setup, whether it's in the music industry, broadcasting, or even unconventional applications like flight simulators. With its opto-isolation and straightforward connectivity, the Line Driver is set to become an essential tool for professionals seeking rock-solid MIDI signal transmission over long distances.
LNDR pair Price: £127.92
10. Synthfest UK 23: Sweet Discrete - Synth Panel Restoration
At Synthfest UK 2023, we had a chat with Craig from Sweet Discrete, a company specializing in unique synth restoration and custom creations. Craig showcased their latest endeavor, which goes beyond their well-known synth overlays. Sweet Discrete has taken on the ambitious task of restoring classic synths like the Jupiter 8 to their former glory. These aren't just simple restorations; they're meticulous, artisanal processes, involving lead loading to remove rust and imperfections, followed by precise silkscreening. What's more, Sweet Discrete manufactures exact replica shells for various synth models, offering three versions for the Jupiter 8 alone. They've even delved into MIDI mods for the Jupiter 8, bringing modern convenience to these vintage gems.
Beyond their cosmetic work, Sweet Discrete is exploring the possibility of delving into electronics and design for synthesizers. With a keen focus on quality and precision, they're making a name for themselves in the world of synth restoration and custom solutions. To learn more about their offerings and explore the range of products, visit their website
Playlist:
DONNER MEDO I Harness the Magic of Notes, Unleash Creativity at Your Fingertips I Donner Spotlight
Let`s discover the Donner MEDO I Donner Music I MEDO synthesizer
MEDO-tutorial
MEDO LOOP
Donner MEDO: Unboxing & Demonstration
Donner MEDO Demonstration: Sample
The $169 Portable Integrated Synth, Sampler, Looper, and MIDI Controller Launches on Kickstarter on October 5th.
[Los Angeles, CA, October 5, 2023] - Donner, the Chinese musical instrument manufacturer, is launching a Kickstarter campaign today for its latest creation, MEDO, priced at $169, exclusively available on Kickstarter from October 5th to November 10th. MEDO is a compact, portable, standalone musical instrument that seamlessly combines a sampler, synthesizer, looper, MIDI controller, and a speaker, enabling anyone to capture inspiration and create music instantly.
Equipped with a built-in microphone and a robust sound engine, MEDO can record up to 5 seconds of audio, allowing for quick sound sampling and the initiation of a creative journey. Users can easily switch between various modes, including SCALE, DRUM, BASS, CHORD, and LEAD, to begin making music immediately. Supporting 128-bar loop recording, MEDO offers a broader spectrum of possibilities for music creation, catering to both beginners and professional musicians alike. The quantize feature ensures that your performance is automatically synchronized perfectly to the beat, taking care of all the timing intricacies.
With the MEDO Synth app by Donner, users can swiftly toggle between various preset sounds, including 15 sets of drum kit sounds by Loopmasters, and benefit from a powerful sound engine that combines subtractive synthesis and authentic samples. It's not just a synthesizer; it's a pocket-sized beat-making powerhouse.
MEDO is both compact and lightweight, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor creative sessions, allowing you to unleash your musical creativity at any time and in any place. Furthermore, MEDO can be seamlessly connected to common DAW software and hardware, providing advanced music production tools and gameplay options. It is compatible with most MIDI applications and all major digital audio workstation software that supports MIDI.
The MEDO Kickstarter campaign opens to backers on October 5th at 9 a.m. Eastern Time, with an early bird pricing of $149 (available only on October 5th). The campaign will run until November 10, 2023, offering Kickstarter backers a discounted price of $169.
With MEDO, Donner will also exhibit at the 2023 Music China, taking place in Shanghai, China. To experience MEDO, visit the Donner booth # W5C52 and Tech+ Music Lab in the Shanghai New International Expo Center from October 11-14. For more information, please visit: Donnermusic.com"
I asked them what the platform would be based on. They replied:
"The web-based interface will be an adapted version of Patatap to which we’ll add a video feed and other interactions that will be possible to trigger inside the space capsule (i,e agitate the marble by turning on a fan, LED array, microphone, speaker, etc).
The space capsule has a set of different elements that allows to change the position of the physical marble floating inside the zero-gravity chamber (a set of sensors that calculates the position, a fan that agitates the position of the marble, a microphone that records those interactions, etc). All that data is then being sent back to us on earth (or in reverse sent to the capsule from earth using the Live mode). In other words, the web-interface receives data/interactions from the capsule and the Live mode allows to send data/interactions directly to the capsule. Lastly we’re building a VST plug-in allowing to receive MIDI and hook up data directly into your DAW or other synth."
In short the interactive hardware controller w/ microphone to capture audio is in space, while the synth engine and processing is done on earth.
Addtional details from the Kickstarter/Press Release follows.
The Blue Marble Synthesizer is the first-ever music synthesizer that can only work in space and that is playable from here on earth. It’s a synthesizer for making music and experimenting with sound. The system consists of a pressurized capsule in a low earth orbit satellite, a network of sensors, and a web-based interface for people to play with here on earth.
1. The Blue Marble Synthesizer Capsule consists of a pressurized CubeSat module configured with a control computer, camera, sensor array, fan, LED array, a microphone, and a speaker. It measures the behavior of a marble floating in a zero gravity synth capsule and sends sensor data, audio feed, and video feed back to us on earth.
2. The Web-Based Interface is an interactive and self-contained web audio synthesizer designed for everyone. Through a collaboration with the creator of Patatap, this application blends interactions from the Blue marble Synthesizer Capsule data with a traditional interactive music synthesizer. This web-based interface is a way to explore the interactions between the Blue Marble Synthesizer Capsule and people’s own musical creativity.
● When does the space mission start? The Kickstarter campaign is set to start on Wednesday, October 4 for 30 days until the rocket launch which is set for Wednesday November 1 aboard the SpaceX Falcon 9 Rocket. Once in orbit, the Blue Marble Synthesizer Space Capsule will be rotating around earth every 90 minutes.
● Why does this project matter? The Blue Marble Synth Project is intended for all those who share a passion for space, music, and the intersection of science and art. Music has always been a universal language that transcends cultural barriers, connecting people on a deeply emotional level. By introducing a music synthesizer to space, we expand the horizons of artistic expression and create a new dimension for human creative endeavors off-planet.
● What is the experience like for supporters?
1. Two primary ways: people will have the chance to make music with the audio and the data captured by the Blue Marble Synthesizer in two primary ways: through an interactive web-interface or via a VST-plug-in. Some supporters may also have the chance to play and interact with the system directly in space.
2. The Blue Marble Web-Interface: is a self-contained web based application that works from here on Earth. Inspired by Patatap, this application blends interactions from the Blue Marble Synth Capsule Data with a traditional interactive music synthesizer.
3. The Blue Marble VST Plug in: this feature allows to receive MIDI and control data from the Blue Marble Synth Capsule to use with other digital synthesizers and digital audio workstations such as Ableton LIVE, FL Studio, Presonus Studio 1, etc.
● Who are the artists involved? Andrew Huang, Benn Jordan, Trovarsi, and MAYSUN, are invited artists who will compose original music with the Blue Marble Synthesizer during this orbital mission. They each possess the adventurer's spirit that we believe is at the heart of this project.
Andrew Huang We are thrilled to have Andrew Huang, the YouTube phenom and Toronto-based artist join the Blue Marble Synth Project. As a highly acclaimed music and video producer, Andrew's unique ability to seamlessly blend diverse musical styles with captivating visuals aligns perfectly with the innovative vision we seek to bring to life. His creativity, coupled with his commitment to pushing artistic boundaries, makes him an invaluable addition to this project
These 4 artists will compose original music using the Blue Marble Synthesizer and the resulting tracks will be released for project supporters on an exclusive LP post-mission.
● What else can supporters get by supporting? Beyond accessing the Web-Based interface and Artist Album, supporters also get access to a range of branded Blue Marble Synthesizer merchandise designed by Physical Synthesis. The collection features a sticker and mission patch, hoodie, t-shirt, cap, tote bag, and more.
● What goes inside the Blue Marble Synthesizer? Technical Breakdown The Blue Marble Synthesizer Capsule consists of a pressurized CubeSat module configured with a control computer, camera, sensor array, fan, LED array, a microphone, and a speaker. The module allows supporters to receive data so they can control other synths and interfaces as well as initiate actions that affect what happens inside the capsule
1. Zero Gravity Dynamics: to make the Blue Marble Synthesizer an instrument that can truly work in space, it requires harnessing the power of zero-gravity. To do this, the synthesizer relies on interactions between a spherical piece of glass – the blue marble – and an array of accurate laser sensors that measure the distance and location of the marble as it floats around a small pressurized chamber.
