Roland Supercharges FANTOM Synthesizer Series

Roland FANTOM EX Synthesizer | Performance featuring LZARUS
video upload by

"FANTOM EX is the latest chapter of the FANTOM legacy. Watch producer and session keyboardist Laurence Jepson, aka LZARUS, perform with the most advanced creative synthesizer ever. Check out an array of FANTOM EX features in action, including German Grand V-Piano Expansion, JUPITER-8 ACB Expansion, live bass recording with JX-8P Model Expansion, TR-REC step sequencing, vocoder, n/zyme Model Expansion, and Shimmer Reverb.

About FANTOM EX

FANTOM EX provides a complete creative ecosystem for professional sound design, sequencing, and performance.

Explore the most advanced Roland sound engines—ACB, ZEN-Core, V-Piano, SuperNATURAL, Virtual ToneWheel, and other Roland technologies. Plus, SH-101, JUPITER-8, and JX-3P* ACB Model Expansions and six additional pre-loaded ZEN-Core Model Expansions, including n/zyme for advanced wave design, vintage-inspired instruments, premium pianos, essential organs, and more.

Integrate seamlessly with any computer-based setup with dedicated modes for Ableton Live, Logic Pro, MainStage, Cubase, and Studio One. Sample directly into the synth and trigger, loop, program, create new tones from partials, or use multi-track sampling to stack sources into complex sounds. Then, refine your sound with Master FX and preset templates.

Developed in collaboration with renowned synth designer Axel Hartmann, the FANTOM EX hardware and user interface is built to support your creativity with intuitive operation and world-class playability."

Roland Fantom EX - Expansion In Use - Sonic LAB

video upload by sonicstate

"Roland's latest iteration of the Fantom is now the Fantom EX which is essentially the same Fantom you could buy yesterday, but now with the EX software expansion.

David aka @superfrogsavestokyo has a look at the new EX features, but with the regular Fantom hardware. He builds some musical sketches to demonstrate the new ACB models and the n/zyme Wavetable synthesizer."

Roland press announcement follows:

The Acclaimed FANTOM Synthesizer Series, Supercharged with the Latest Roland Sound Technologies and Updated Creative Tools

Los Angeles, CA, April 25, 2024 — Roland announces FANTOM EX, a new flagship synthesizer series for professional musicians and producers. Updating and expanding the popular FANTOM platform with the latest Roland technologies, the next-generation FANTOM EX delivers a complete creative ecosystem for sound design, sequencing, and performance. In addition to the FANTOM 6 EX, FANTOM 7 EX, and FANTOM 8 EX models available to new purchasers, current FANTOM owners can expand their instruments with all EX sounds and features through the FANTOM EX Upgrade for sale on Roland Cloud.

Introduced in 2019, the Roland FANTOM has received worldwide acclaim for its diverse range of high-quality sounds, powerful synthesis tools, premium playability, and free-flowing user interface. FANTOM EX builds on the original’s foundation, supplementing the core feature set with Roland’s Analog Circuit Behavior (ACB) engine and numerous sound expansion titles, including the recently developed JX-3P ACB Expansion. New effects and a host of fresh workflow enhancements are also included.

Each FANTOM EX model provides the most expansive collection of premium sound engines available in a hardware instrument. Roland’s ACB, ZEN-Core, V-Piano, SuperNATURAL, and Virtual ToneWheel technologies spark inspiration at every turn, providing expressive and inspiring sounds for every musical style.

With FANTOM EX, users can compose and perform with over 7000 genre-defining Roland sounds and go further with premium sound content on Roland Cloud. Eleven sound expansion titles come as standard, including JUPITER-8, SH-101, and JX-3P ACB Expansions; n/zyme, JD-800, JUNO-106, JUPITER-8, JX-8P, and SH-101 Model Expansions; the German Concert V-Piano Expansion 01; and the SuperNATURAL Acoustic Piano 3 Expansion.

The powerful custom processors in FANTOM EX provide smooth and precise operation with plenty of overhead, enabling loads of polyphony and full patch remain for seamless transitions. There are dozens of simultaneous effects, including new studio-grade reverbs and updated Master FX for shaping the overall sound. A characterful analog filter is also available, perfect for infusing tones with extra warmth and grit.

FANTOM EX is primed to be the center of any production universe. Users can directly shape sounds and develop musical ideas with a friendly, ergonomic panel filled with buttons, knobs, and sliders. The color touchscreen dynamically changes to support the task at hand, and it’s now possible to personalize the look by importing custom images for the screensaver and startup view.

The deep onboard sampling and composition tools in FANTOM EX support fast sound creation and quick arrangement of song ideas. Multiple workflow options include the classic Roland TR-REC step sequencer, real-time recording with piano roll editing, and 16 RGB pads for triggering sounds, samples, and clips.

FANTOM EX flows effortlessly into any computer-based production setup. There are dedicated modes for popular software platforms, including Ableton Live, Logic Pro, MainStage, Cubase, and Studio One. With the built-in 16x3 audio/MIDI USB interface, users can mix and layer soft synths with hardware sounds, send sequencer parts to computer tracks, route DAW sources through FANTOM EX effects, and more.

The loaded FANTOM EX rear panel supports connections with a wide range of gear. There are XLR combo connectors for mics and instruments and eight 1/4-inch outputs to route sounds to external destinations. MIDI I/O is also available, along with dual CV/Gate outputs for driving modular and analog synths.

Each FANTOM EX model comes equipped with a premium keyboard and aftertouch support. The FANTOM 8 EX offers the ultimate weighted experience with 88 hammer-action keys, while the 61-note FANTOM 6 EX and 76-note FANTOM 7 EX feature semi-weighted synth action. Precision-crafted with decades of Roland development knowledge, these inspiring keyboards deliver the most expressive playability available.

Released in November 2023, the FANTOM EX Upgrade on Roland Cloud allows owners of the original FANTOM 6/7/8 models to outfit their instruments with the newly added EX features, including JUPITER-8, SH-101, and JX-3P ACB Expansions, n/zyme and JD-800 Model Expansions, two new grand pianos, and all other EX enhancements.

Availability & Pricing
The Roland FANTOM 6 EX, FANTOM 7 EX, and FANTOM 8 EX will be available in the U.S. in April for $3,199.99, $3,699.99, and $4,199.99 respectively."

Arturia Introduces the AstroLab - Avant-Garde Stage Keyboard

video upload by Arturia

Update: new user videos added below.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Paul McGowan of PS Audio Explains the Moog Synthesizer

video upload by Paul McGowan, PS Audio

"The classic Moog changed the world. Paul helps us understand what all the wires and modules actually do."

https://www.psaudio.com

Fascinating bit at 1:50. Paul McGowan actually created his own synthesizer, The Infinitizer. Curious if there are any images of it out there. He almost sold one to Wendy Carlos. It gets a mention in his book 99% True: Almost a National Bestseller which you can find on Amazon here (note this is an affiliate link - see the site's privacy policy for more info).

Update: I asked Paul if he had any pics of The Infinitizer. Unfortantely he didn't, and he no longer has any of the parts, but he did send over the following additional info:

"I don’t have any photos of the Infinitizer, unfortunately. I remember a very sad day back in 1995 or so when I was cleaning out my lab and had to own up to hauling it off to the dump (it was a mere skeleton of PCBs, a keyboard, and lots of wires and didn’t work)."

"The idea was to make 10 synthesizers into one unit that was easy to use. This meant it would be the world’s first polyphonic synth, since musicians only have 10 fingers.

I designed a complete analog chain of 10 modules (the usual: VC filters, oscillators, envelope generators, amplifiers, etc.). Then, I hired an engineer out of Vandenburg Air Force Base who was a whiz at this new thing called “digital”. He designed for me a multiplexed keyboard that constantly scanned all the keys looking for ones that were pressed. The keys were all internally numbered and when pressed, the multiplexer would find an available VC oscillator and assign that number to the oscillator. Because we know the number of the key, the appropriate voltage was sent to that oscillator and it produced the appropriate frequency for that key. In order to have the entire keyboard voltage move up and down (like if you wanted to bend the notes or modulate the frequency with a LF oscillator) the master voltage (that got divided by the individual keys assigned to it) could be accessed as one might normally do through the patch bay.

I also wanted to have the keys pressure sensitive so for that, I invented the use of conductive foam under each key (and that too could manipulate the master voltage to the oscillator banks) and could be assigned to modulate any of the other modifiers too. My patch bay was a switch matrix and pots kind of like ARP used to do.

It was a very cool device which I wrote about extensively in my memoirs, 99% True."

-------

As for the first non organ based poly synth, currently that honor likely goes to one of the following depending how you define it:

1975 - Buchla 502 - six voice polyphonic with minicomputer and ability to save patches to tape drive. Development on the 500 series began in 1969.

1975 - Oberheim FVS - four voice polyphonic with Polyphonic Synthesizer Programmer. Not sure if the 502 or FVS was released first.

1977 - Yamaha - CS50/CS60/CS80 - first single enclosure polyphonic keyboard synthesizers, with the CS80 to be the first synth with poly aftertouch

1978 - Sequential Circuits - microprocessor control the SCI prophet 10 (briefly) and the P-5 --- again based on existing E-mu tech stuff

via The First Synth to...

Texture Lab in the Effects Processor Mode with an Electric Guitar

video upload by SONICWARE

"Daniel Rose demonstrates an electric guitar connected to LIVEN Texture Lab.
The Texture Lab is a Granular synthesizer and effector with a majestic Shimmer Reverb. https://sonicware.jp/pages/liven-text...

Check out his instruction video:"

How to Use the Sonicware Texture Lab as a Live Granular Effects Processor

video upload by SONICWARE

"Timestamps / Table of Contents:

Section 1: basic principles

Part 1: the non-granular side of the blend
1:35 - intro
1:57 - first synth sound and default effects mode sound
2:32 - notes on blend, reverb, and filter
5:56 - tip #1

Part 2: the granular side of the blend
6:44 - intro
7:51 - notes on playback direction (❗important❗)

CLICK FOR MORE »

Anthony Marinelli Doctor Mix Synth Jam 1 | CS80, 73 Moog Modular, FVS, ARP 2600

video upload by Anthony Marinelli Music

"Check out this explosive music track spontaneously created by Anthony Marinelli and Dr. Mix while jamming on some of the monster synthesizers that live in the Rosen Sound Cabin. including: CS80, 73 Moog Modular, FVS, ARP 2600!!!!!"

Welcome To The Synthesizer Nirvana

video upload by Doctor Mix

"Today I get exclusive access to The Synth Cabin room at @RosenSound, L.A.'s leading sythesizer repair and customization lab. @anthonymarinellimusic and I join the legendary Rob Rosen for a in depth studio tour and a dense all-synthesizer jam session."

Also see Rob Rosen Reveals His Ultimate Synth Collection

Best of Roland JX-3P Synthesizer ~ RetroSound Demo

video upload by RetroSound

"(c)2007-23 by RetroSound
supported by UVI: http://bit.ly/retrosound-uvi

❤️ Support #RetroSound​ channel: https://retrosound.creator-spring.com

Best of Roland JX-3P Synthesizer
all synthesizer sounds: Roland JX-3P Synthesizer (1983)
drums: Boss DR-55, Korg KR-55B, Roland TR-808, Roland TR-707, Linndrum, Simmons SDS-8

Setlist
0:06 Intro
0:18 Analogous
1:00 Bittersweet https://retrosound.bandcamp.com/track...
1:33 Pulsator
1:38 1983
2:12 JX Pad
2:28 December 83
2:54 Deep Bass
3:03 Life Cycles
3:32 Sample/Hold
3:45 Sweet Wave
3:51 Talking JX
4:04 Analog Wave
4:12 Berlin Night
4:32 Diva
4:38 The Lab
5:00 Retrowave
5:19 Shy
5:26 Doctor
5:34 Axel
5:41 Life
5:51 Drive
6:01 Nice
6:09 Happy
6:16 Forever

The Roland JX-3P Synthesizer from the year 1983 is a fantastic analog synth with the typical 80s sound. Here can you find the full JX-3P playlist with single sound demos and one synth demo tracks. Enjoy.
The JX-3P playlist:"

Roland Announces GAIA 2 Synthesizer

video upload by RolandChannel

Roland GAIA 2 Synthesizer Overview


User videos:

Playlist:

1. Roland GAIA2 Demo & Review - musictrackjp
2. New Roland GAIA 2 - "Skywards" - demo by gattobus
3. ROLAND GAIA 2 Review, tutorial, and all 250+ presets - loopop
4. Roland GAIA2 - 1st LOOK Sonic Lab Presentation - sonicstate
5. Roland GAIA 2 Sound Demo (no talking) - Bonedo Synthesizers
6. Roland GAIA 2 Sound Demo (no talking) - Limbic Bits

Press release follows.

Advanced Synthesizer with Wavetable and Virtual Analog Engines, an Intuitive Sound Design Workflow, Expressive Hands-On Controls, Model Expansion Support, and More

Los Angeles, CA, Sept. 28, 2023 — Roland announces GAIA 2, an advanced synthesizer with a newly developed hybrid sound engine and a friendly panel layout that makes learning synthesis and exploring sound design easy and fun. Equipped with wavetable and virtual analog oscillators, interactive controls, 37 full-size keys, Model Expansion support, and other powerful features, GAIA 2 opens the door to an infinite universe of inspired creation.

GAIA 2’s diverse synthesis tools allow users to build familiar sounds and craft new voices never heard before. Reaching beyond previous designs, the wavetable oscillator can morph between multiple waveforms for everything from dramatic shifts to slowly evolving textures. Unique phase and shape modulation options are also available to distort waveforms and unleash cutting-edge textures with complex overtones. Complementing the wavetable oscillator are twin virtual analog oscillators, ready to reimagine past classics or sculpt the sounds of the future. From smooth tones reminiscent of vintage synths to edgy, biting leads to sci-fi soundscapes, GAIA 2 can do it.

GAIA 2 also supports Roland Model Expansions, which faithfully recreate iconic synthesizers from the company’s long history. With a dedicated button, users can instantly swap between the built-in sound engine and classics like the JUPITER-8 or JUNO-106. The SH-101 Model Expansion comes pre-installed, and many additional titles and accompanying Sound Packs are available on Roland Cloud.

GAIA 2’s logically organized panel encourages hands-on exploration and sonic discovery. The one-control-per-function layout and informative display enable instant programming without having to resort to creativity-killing menu diving. And with the streamlined knobs and white anodized aluminum panel, even the look is inspiring.

GAIA 2 features a touch-controlled Motional Pad that brings static sounds to life. Users can assign nearly any synth or effect parameter to each of the X/Y points and then morph between them by moving a finger on the pad. It’s also possible to record movements to create complex, modulated transformations.

The free-flowing sequencer in GAIA 2 lets users instantly capture their inspiration and realize their wildest visions. There’s also a cool Random Pattern feature to spark new ideas with spontaneous pattern creation.

GAIA 2 comes loaded with classic Roland effects to take sonic creations to the next level. Over 50 unique MFX types are available, plus a dedicated Chorus section for adding width and dimension. A powerful Reverb/Delay section features a new studio-grade Shimmer Reverb and many other high-quality effect types.

Via USB-C, GAIA 2 functions as an audio/MIDI interface for music production apps on a computer, smartphone, or tablet. The class-compliant connection is plug-and-play, with no driver installation needed. A USB Type-A port is also available for connecting a USB flash drive for data backup or a standard USB MIDI controller for extended operation.

GAIA 2 supports Roland Cloud Connect, an optional wireless adapter for browsing and downloading Roland Cloud content using a mobile device. A Roland Cloud Connect purchase also includes a year of Roland Cloud Pro membership with unlimited use of thousands of sounds, Model Expansions, and much more.

The optional CB-B37 Keyboard Bag for GAIA 2 provides durable, high-quality protection for the synthesizer while traveling and making music around town. This versatile bag also works with the JUPITER-Xm, legacy GAIA SH-01, and other 37-note keyboards.

Availability & Pricing

The Roland GAIA 2 is now available in the U.S. for $899.99.

Click the pics for the full size shots.

CLICK FOR MORE »

US 50 in Nevada, Part 1: Middlegate to Austin (with synthesizer soundtrack)

video upload by CatSynth TV

You can find all parts in this series here.

"We preset Part 1 of of several videos covering our epic trip along US Highway 50 in Nevada, dubbed "The Loneliest Road in America". In this segment, we head west from the tiny community of Middlegate in Churchill County to the old mining town of Austin (in Lander County). Along the way we cross wide valleys and mountain passes.

Original music by Amanda Chaudhary using the following instruments:
Yamaha RX5 drum machine and RX5USB cartridge
Cherry Audio GX-80, Harmonia, and Stardust 201 tape delay
Arturia Vocoder V, DX7 V, Analog Lab, Mellotron V, Jun-6 V, Delay ETERNITY
Universal Audio UAD Electra 88
Buchla Red Panel 158 and 156m modules
EastWest Fantasy Brass and Hollywood Orchestral Percussion


The building featured at the end of the video is Stokes Castle, a ruined replica of a European castle tower that sits on a hill above the town of Austin."

00:00 Introduction
00:10 Beginning at Middlegate
04:10 Music break - chillout
06:42 Original rhythm returns; approaching a mountain pass


"Please consider supporting this channel so that we can bring more music, synthesizers, highways, and cultural content regularly:
Store: https://shop.catsynth.com
Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/catsynth
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/catsynth"

Sonic LAB: Soma Terra Desktop - Conceptual Touch Synthesizer

video upload by sonicstate

"Another conceptual instrument from the folks at SOMA - the Terra is an interesting device with a DSP heart and an organic touch based interface. With 12 velocity and touch sensitive (note triggers) and four modifier controls which can radically alter the tone.
There are 32 algorithms which drive the internal sound engine and each of these can have additional variations - which are selected by the triangular set of touch buttons.
Also with a delay or reverb (one or the other)

The tuning of the note sensors can be done in semitones and microtuning making the scales and notes playable extremely unusual, or usual - the tunings are saved per patch.
In addition there are envelope settings for each bank of buttons, the decay/release or fade out of both the actual notes played and the modifier.

Additional tuning is handled by the pitch shifters - generally + 1 or 2 octaves and down -1 -2, with a fifth by pressing two together.

The results are pretty unusual, although you can easily tune Terra to be in key if you want to play with others.
Priced at €1300(+tax) $1599
http://somasynth.com

00:00 - Start
00:30 - overview
04:06 - Sounds 1
10:44 - Loading patches
12:46 - Modifying patches
14:06 - Transpose Buttons
19:26 - Drum patch
20:35 - Algorithms
25:13 - Arpeggiator
26:48 - Playing Terra
30:27 - Midi Control
33:40 - Conclusion"

5 Eurorack patch ideas with the Wavefonix W100 Modular Synthesizer

video upload by DivKid

"Here we have 5 patches for Eurorack Modular Synth systems that I’m exploring with the Wavefonix W100 6U system. These patches are applicable to many modules, systems and multiple formats so try them out with what you have.

Join us for an exploration of modulating filters with oscillators, using free running LFOs to shift wavetables and bit crush FX, layering ring modulation tones, chaining FM and AM “operator” style, percussion synthesis tips and using multiple envelopes for layer more complex modulation.

This video is also an exploration and somewhat casual demo of the Wavefonix W100 system. We overview the modules included and get a feel for the sound and patch potential throughout."

TIMING INDEX // CHAPTERS
00:00 Hello & patch previews
00:36 What are we doing here?
01:06 Checking out the Wavefonix W100 system
02:05 PATCH 1 // VCO and noise based filter modulation
04:43 PATCH 2 // Free running LFOs for wavetables, bit crush and beyond
07:04 PATCH 3 // Layering Ring Modulation tones
08:52 PATCH 4 // Chaining FM & AM plus percussion synthesis
12:01 PATCH 5 // Dual Envelope filter modulation

via Wavefonix

W100 Modular Synthesizer (6U/104HP)
Our 6U, 104HP W100 Modular Synthesizer is an excellent, compact system for the studio; offering a good balance between versatility and portability. It features the essential modules that you would expect from a small studio setup, but with a broader range of modulation and sonic possibilities over the smaller W314, along with sequencing capabilities from our 8-Step Sequencer.

The system is housed in an elegant, solid walnut 6U, 104HP case. Also included is a premium integrated PSU from Konstant Lab.

Included in the system are the following modules:

1 x MIDI Interface (MIDI)
2 x 3340 Dual Voltage-Controlled Oscillator (VCO)
1 x 1847 Wavetable VCDO
1 x 6-Channel Linear Mixer or 6-Channel Audio Mixer
1 x 2140 Low-Pass Filter (LPF), 2144 Low-Pass Filter (LPF) or 3320 Low-Pass Filter (LPF)
1 x 3310 Envelope Generator (EG)
1 x 3310 VC Envelope Generator (VCEG)
1 x Noise Generator (NG)
1 x 3360 Quad Linear VCA
1 x 2710 Envelope Follower (EF)
1 x Ring Modulator (RM)
1 x Dual Sample & Hold (S&H)
1 x Clock Divider (CD)
1 x 8-Step Sequencer
1 x Linear Attenuator (AT)
1 x Dual Switch (SW)
1 x 4x4 Passive Multiple (PM)
2 x Dual Low-Frequency Oscillator (LFO)
1 x VCD Low-Frequency Oscillator (VCDLFO)
1 x 3-Channel Stereo Panning Mixer
1 x Audio Out (AO)

Please note that we can also offer custom module configurations to suit your requirements.

Mos-Lab Arp 2500 Demos

Cymatic - ARP 2500 - Mos-Lab video upload by Smartti1970

"Synthesizer ARP 2500 Mos-Lab
FX: Lexicon Pcm80, Eventide Space"

The illusion is Deep - ARP 2500 Mos-lab


"Synthesizer: ARP 2500 by Mos-lab (rented from a studio)
FX: Eventide & Lexicon Pcm80
(contains a lot of FX so this is not for those who want to hear the pure sound of the Arp2500 )"

Synthesizer Arp 2500 - demo with Multi-mode filter 1047 & Filt Amp 1006 & Sequencer

"demo with just a view variations with the Synthesizer Arp 2500 - (Mos-Lab)

Fx: Lexicon Pcm80
Eventide Space
0:00 drone one oscillator filter cut off with Filt Amp
1:20 filter cutoff with 1047 filter multi mode, sequencer"

Synthesizer ARP 2500 - Mos-lab - demo with Dual Sample & Hold 1036 module

"Just a view variations filter the Sample & Hold module with the Synthesizer ARP 2500 - (MOs-Lab)

0:00 Drone one oscillator + Lexicon Pcm80 Eventide Space
0:30 Second Oscillator on , off
0:39 third Oscillator Low octave, filter cut off Filt Amp
2:12 Filter cut off Filter 1047
4:12 One Sample & Hold on cut off
5:52 Sample & Hold on VCA and VCF
7:19 Samle & Hold on VCF and resonance
9:10 second Sample & hold, first drops driping sound
10:12 sweet spot with drip drop buble sound
11:27 rain drops more
12:17 white noise added to sample & hold"

Blue Lantern EOS 2023 - White Semi Modular Synthesizer

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

via this auction

You can find a demo here.

"Ergot Organic Synthesizer

Dimensions: 17x7x2

Power Range: -12V/+12V based, compatible with external Euro Format Modules.

This is an analog synthesizer with Stereo PT2399 based Echo FX.

To get it going a 1V/octave and Gate signal patched from you own gear is required.

An Arturia KeyStep can be used for example.

No patching is required to to complete the audio patch. All the basic connections are hardwired.

The user just has to turn knobs.

The EOS is based on the following blue lantern modules circuits/modules:

VCO-Lunar Modulation Lab

Mixer-Mono Sir Mix Alot

Noise Generator-Dwarf Star Shift Register Noise Generator, with additional white noise

Sub Harmonics Generator 4hp Module

Stereo Filter: Modified Parallax Filter, some features are based on Mutable Instruments Blades Filter.

Envelope Generators: APE Module

VCA-2164 based stereo vca's

Digital LFO's: Mini Digital VCLFO Module.

Features:

67 Knob Controls

24 Toggle Switches

50 Patch points

1 Stereo Headphone/Monitor Output

9 possible audio sources on the mixer

Stereo Analog Filter

Filter 1 has LP/BP/HP

Filter 2 has LP or Notch

The Filter has a signal path Scanner to blend between Mono, Parallel, or Series.

2 Digital Based LFO's. with wave form reset, and 2 banks of wave forms."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Kodamo Mask 1 Bitmask Synthesizer - Sonic LAB Review

video upload by sonicstate

"Kodamo Mask1 is a DSP powered 12 voice synthesizer which at it's heart has Bitmask Oscillators - two of them. Not heard of that before? Me neither, but I can explain, or at least attempt to.

But first a word about the UI and hardware. Stephane Damo, the synths designer has a love for 80s synths, and this is reflected in the rather sparse UI - there are only two knobs, a bunch of parameter buttons and a five character LED display - pretty minimal.

However, the Mask 1 does sound good and the reduced parameter set does not reduce the sound shaping capabilities. The Mask 1 is capable of some really lovely sounds, as well as deep lows and crystal highs.
I should also point out that as an instrument, it's very playable, the velocity and aftertouch response feel very smooth and predictable, this really enhances the playabillity and responsiveness of the instrument.

The Kodamo Mask 1 is available now priced at £2025/2250/$2250 from several online retailers.

Exclusive extra content on Patreon
https://patreon.com/sonicstate

00:00:00 start
00:00:22 intro
00:02:34 What is Bitmask?
00:04:39 Sounds
00:07:46 Voice Structure
00:14:23 Voice Summary
00:15:53 Mod routing
00:19:15 Split/Layer
00:20:36 More Sounds
00:30:45 Summary and playout"

SONICWARE Introduces the LIVEN Texture Lab | Granular Synthesizer/Effector

video upload by SONICWARE

"LIVEN Texture Lab | Granular Synthesizer/Effector
- Sample, slice, transform and reconstruct audio to synthesize completely new sounds
- Granular synthesizer with granular effects processor mode
- Shimmer reverb for fantastical and majestic sounding spaces
- 128-step sequencer with parameter locking
- World-famous sound designers have provided presets as results of their experiments

The presets are
01 FL.BK (Flashback) : Yasutake(elfin)
02 DRMR (Dreamer) : Limbic Bits
03 FEAR (Fear) : Chris Lody
04 US.HP (Use Headphones!) : Takashi Matsuura
05 CHOR (nostalgic space choir) : Dr. Endo"

CLICK FOR MORE »

Massive Wavetable Polysynth - 3rd Wave - Sonic LAB Review

video upload by sonicstate

"The 3rd Wave is a 24 voice DSP based Wavetable Synthesizer with three oscillators per voice featuring classic PPG era Wavetables, plus modern interpolated ones, user waves and virtual analog waves. These are then processed by 2 filters - one pure DSP State Variable, and one pure analog 4-pole designed by legend Dave Rossum.

Exclusive extra content on Patreon
https://patreon.com/sonicstate

00:00 Intro
00:50 PerfectCircuit.com Ad
01:30 basic overview
03:53 Sounds 1
07:49 Oscillators
13:59 Filters
19:19 All the Envelopes
23:19 Mod Matrix
25:53 Wave Surfer
27:16 Sounds 2
28:05 Multi-timbral Mode
30:50 FX
34:53 Watch out for the compressor
35:53 Making your own Wavetables
38:50 Closing thoughts"

NoisyFruitsLab Eurorack Modules & DIY

video upload by NoisyFruitsLab

"Take a look inside noisyfruitslab.com"

Products: (use the player controls to skip around)


video uploads by NoisyFruitsLab

Playlist:

CLICK FOR MORE »

ASM Hydrasynth - NO TALKING demo

video upload by Andrea Di Lorenzo - Music Lab

"Hi, everyone!

Here's to you my NO TALKING DEMO of the amazing ASM Hydrasynth, the "best value for money" synthesizer out there IMHO.

In this demo I will just let you hear what some amazing sound designers have made for this stunning wavetable synthesizer simply by scrolling and playing some beautiful factory presets of the bank A.

Some specs:
◉ 2 x WaveScan Oscillators, 1 x Fixed Wave Oscillator, 1 x Noise Generator;
◉ 219 waveforms (wave morphing), 4 x Mutators Wave Shapers;
◉ 5 x LFO, Tempo syncable;
◉ Multimode Filter (11 types), Variable Filter (lowpass, bandpass, highpass);
◉ 5 x ADSR ; Delay, Hold, Looping;
◉ 4 x Reverbs, 5 x Delay, Chorus, Flanger, Rotary, Phaser, Lo-Fi, Tremolo, EQ, Compressor;
◉ 8 x Arpeggiators;
◉ Full polyphonic aftertouch;
◉ CV/Gate I/O;
◉ 32-path modulation matrix;
◉ and much more...

I really think this synthesizer is a sound designer's dream, with a unique sound and capable of producing from the most traditional to the most experimental, evolving and generative timbres."

Arturia Introduces MiniFreak 6-voice Algorithmic Synthesizer

MiniFreak | Algorithmic Synthesizer | ARTURIA video upload by Arturia

Tutorials | MiniFreak - Overview

video upload by Arturia

"In this tutorial, take a tour through MiniFreak's features, hidden talents, and wild sounds, as Matt Pike gives you the lowdown on the 6-voice hybrid #polysynth that's out to break all the rules.

_CHAPTERS
00:00 Intro
01:03 Presets Playing
02:27 Oscillators
03:40 Virtual Analog Engine
04:41 FM Engine
05:50 FM Modulation
07:04 Analog Filter
07:35 Modulation Matrix
10:13 Digital Effects
12:02 Sliders
13:30 Sequencer & Arpeggiator
14:51 Sound Edit & Utilities" Arturia MiniFreak: 5 things you need to know (+ no-talking sound demo)
video upload by MusicRadar Tech

Review: Arturia MiniFreak // vs MicroFreak // Everything covered, including almost all 256 presets

video upload by loopop

TIMELINE:
0:00 Intro
1:25 vs MicroFreak
6:30 Connectivity
7:35 Workflow
8:55 Osc controls
10:30 Osc 1 engines
14:05 Audio in
14:30 Oscillator 2
15:05 FM/RM
16:05 Digital filters
19:00 Destroy frog
19:50 Analog filter
21:30 Digital FX
25:40 Envelopes
27:45 LFOs
29:05 Waveshaping
30:20 LFO as env
30:40 Vibrato LFO
31:10 Mod matrix
34:00 Macros
34:55 Arpeggiator
38:10 Spice & dice
39:10 Sequencer
43:40 Automation
45:45 Voice modes
46:40 Paraphony
48:20 Chord & scale
48:44 Hidden gems
50:10 Pros & cons
53:50 Almost all 250 presets!

Arturia MiniFreak - First Look - Sonic LAB

video upload by sonicstate

"Today's the day for the big Arturia announcements - and the one we have most experience of is the new MiniFreak which is an expanded MicroFreak - (the Algorithmic Synthesizer with multiple oscillator types).

The MiniFreak doubles up the Oscillators to two - with 20 oscillator types on board, keeps the multi-mode analog filter and adds 3, quality, digital FX. It also has a physical 37 key keybed (short travel) with aftertouch. There's two control strips which can do pitch/mod or macro 1/2, each with four destinations or a sequencer/gate control for the on board sequencer.

It also comes with a free VST version MiniFreak V

We fully confess that we didn't get the time to do the full review in time for this deadline, but first impressions are pretty positive."

arturia minifreak performance

video upload by Red Means Recording Ambient

"first time performing with the arturia minifreak. this is the patch 'Trent's Pno' I made for the factory presets. this is also the last patch in my current house, as i will be moving. see you in november!"

@Arturia MiniFreak Introduction, Unboxing & Demo | No Talking
video upload by DKS SYNTH LAB

Priced at 599€ / $599, available today.

See the dealers on the right for availibility.

via Arturia

Arturia expands wild hybrid synth range with 6-voice MiniFreak

MiniFreak is a polyphonic hybrid keyboard that combines two digital sound engines with warm analog filters, playful modulation, spontaneous sequencing, and rich stereo effects for sounds that are immediately curious, beautiful, and chaotic in equal measure.

Hybrid polysynth power
MiniFreak’s twin digital sound engines feature over 20 modes, and can be used individually, stacked, or to process each other’s output for unique compound sonic behavior. Its digital voices then collide with analog filters, balancing digital crispness with a rich analog response, complete with 6-voice polyphony, 12-voice paraphony, monophonic, and unison configurations.

Customizable & experimental sound design
MiniFreak’s expanded modulation matrix gives users even more control over shaping, transforming, and evolving their sound, with features like polyphonic ADSR envelopes, customizable multi-segment LFO shapes, FM & Ring Modulation, and the familiar Spice & Dice randomization.

Mix-ready stereo sound
With stereo outputs and 3 digital FX slots with 10 FX types to choose from, users will have everything they need to push their sound over the edge while keeping it mix-ready, from stereo-enhancing chorus, to surgical 3-band EQ, to gritty distortion.

Expression, meet chaos
Despite its penchant for wild & exploratory sound design, MiniFreak is an instrument of expression. Its velocity-sensitive 37-note keybed with aftertouch and spontaneous Seq/Arp functionality makes it a dream to perform with, while its randomization features put playfulness first.

MiniFreak V
MiniFreak comes with a dedicated VST counterpart, letting users totally integrate its unique hybrid sound and presets into their DAW productions and vice versa. Using identical sound engines, modeled filters, presets, and totally synchronized controls, users can enjoy an identical experience in hardware or software form.

And the press pics.

Click on each to zoom in.

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u-he Introduces MFM2.5 - More Feedback Machine Update

Playlist:

1. MFM2.5 Tutorial (Pt.1): Overview / Routing / Feedback

00:00 - Intro / Overview 00:52 - Presets tab 01:05 - Setting up a new patch 01:42 - Delay lines 02:55 - Master feedback knob 03:24 - Feedback configuration 05:50 - User matrix / custom routing

2. MFM2.5 Tutorial (Pt.2): Filter / LFO / Effects

00:00 - Filter section 00:48 - LFO Modulation 02:03 - Effects 03:17 - Compressors 04:10 - Clipper

3. MFM2.5 Tutorial (Pt.3): Resonators / Musical Pitch / MSEG

00:00 - Resonators 01:38 - Musical pitch 02:31 - LFO pitch modulation 03:58 - MSEG feedback modulation 04:31 - User matrix

4. MFM2.5 Tutorial (Pt.4): "Fun with LFOs"

00:00 - Introduction to LFOs 00:28 - Setting up new patch
01:28 - LFO modulating cutoff
02:38 - LFO modulating panorama
03:28 - LFO restart
04:34 - FX: Diffusor
05:37 - Tweaks

5. MFM2.5 Tutorial (Pt.5): "Transient Balance & Diffusor FX"

00:00 - Introduction
00:24 - Setting up the patch
01:34 - Transient balance
02:41 - Adding delay 3+4
03:16 - Diffusor FX
03:45 - LFO modulating diffusor size
04:56 - LFO modulating master feedback
05:30 - LFO restart

6. MFM2.5 Tutorial (Pt.6): "Granular FX"

Concluding our tutorial series, here's our new Granular effect! We'll add in some LFO modulation to create a u-he,synthesizer,synths,VST,AU,plugin,synth,delay,granular,diffusion,clapspacey Granular Delay.
MFM2.5 is available here: https://u-he.com/products/mfm2/

00:00 - Introduction
00:15 - Setting up the patch
01:13 - Granular FX
02:34 - LFO modulating granular transposition
04:01 - Bandpass filtering the feedback

u-he More Feedback Machine 2.5 Patch Flip - Sonic LAB

video upload by sonicstate

MFM2: More Feedback Machine

MFM2 is our over-the-top digital delay plug-in. You can create anything from subtle textured echos to huge spacey reverbs, from wild tonal steps on a pad to rhythmic deconstruction of a drum track. As a regular delay MFM2 already offers as much control and inspiration as possible, while the advanced features in version 2.5 open up wider horizons. More feedback, more control, more inspiration!

New in version 2.5:
input section with gain, filter and transient balance
4 delay lines with independent absolute time or tempo-synced modes
Each delay line has its own multimode filter: 2x lowpass, bandpass, 2x highpass, bandreject or allpass
6 default delay configurations or user matrix (freely route signals between all 4 delay lines)
4 syncable LFOs with 8 waveform options or user definable shapes
2 syncable and loopable multi-stage envelope generator (MSEG) modulation sources
4-slot modulation matrix with depth modulation from a second source
2 channel-pair effects: soft clipper, bit crusher, phaser, frequency shifter, filter...
New in version 2.5: granular (pitch shift, reverse delays) and diffusor (reverb)
2 channel-pair compressor/limiters, with peak or maximize modes
New in version 2.5: output shield (soft clipper) with strength and threshold options
Scalable UI from 70% to 200%
400+ factory presets

https://u-he.com/products/mfm2/

Sequential Take 5 - Sound Bank '79

video upload by Polydata

"Drawing from the earliest days of polyphonic synthesizers, Sound Bank ‘79 for the Sequential Take 5 finds its inspiration in synthesizer music found in documentaries and library music from the late 70’s and early 80’s.

Two banks making a total 32 patches for instant inspiration. Sound Bank '79 is a series of vintage tones for different synths and plug-ins, so look out for future releases.

Link:
polydata.bigcartel.com

After payment, you will receive the SysEx file in your email within 24 hours. Loads into Banks 1 & 2 by default.

POLYDATA music
polydata.bandcamp.com

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