Cherry Audio Announces the Rebirth of the Long-Awaited Chroma Synthesizer

Playlist:

1. Cherry Audio | Chroma Synthesizer

2. Cherry Audio | Chroma Classics Preset Pack

Chroma Classics Preset Pack for Chroma features an additional 100 phenomenal presets by Cherry Audio's Director of Sound Design, James Terris, blending vintage tones with a contemporary feel.

https://store.cherryaudio.com/presets...

3. Cherry Audio | The Story of Chroma

"Dive into the captivating history of the Rhodes Chroma synthesizer with "The Story of Chroma," a documentary that traces its revolutionary path from the final days of ARP Instruments to its celebrated release by Rhodes in 1982. This compelling video brings to life the innovative spirit of the Chroma through the firsthand accounts of those who stood at the forefront of its creation. Hear from Dr. Tom Rhea, a renowned electronic music historian, Michael Brigida, a dedicated ARP and Rhodes product specialist, and Mary Lock, the esteemed service manager for both companies, as they recount the synthesizer's development, challenges, and triumphs. Featuring exclusive interviews and insights, this documentary not only explores the technical breakthroughs and musical possibilities the Chroma introduced but also celebrates its enduring legacy and the recent resurgence through Cherry Audio’s efforts. Witness the story of a musical marvel that continues to inspire innovation and creativity in the world of music.

Produced by Daniel Keller
Editing and graphics by Mal Meehan
Music by James Terris"

4. Cherry Audio | Introduction to Chroma Synthesizer

Synth designer Mitchell Sigman of Cherry Audio introduces Chroma, Cherry Audio's virtual instrument that emulates the 1982 Rhodes Chroma polyphonic analog synthesizer and its Expander unit.

Online User Guide at https://docs.cherryaudio.com/cherry-a...

0:10 Introduction
1:18 User Interface Basics
4:44 Voice Architecture and Patch Configuration
9:43 The Chroma Arpeggiator
11:37 Sweep Generators (the LFOs)
17:02 Envelope Generators
19:46 Chroma CPU Usage

Cherry Audio Chroma User Videos


1. Cherry Audio Chroma: A demo + tutorial of an elusive analog synth - CatSynth TV - Patreon

We take a deep dive into Cherry Audio's new Chroma, a meticulous recreation of the legendary and elusive Rhodes Chroma. It was a polyphonic analog synthesizer that came with some unique features, notably the ability to reconfigure the signal path among its oscillators, filters, and VCAs, opening up a wider range of sound possibilities. Cherry Audio's version combines these features with a modern user interface that allows direct manipulation of the parameters (unlike the original with a single data slider), and adds a full-featured effects section. We go over the expansive feature set of this instrument, showing you how each feature works and how to use them to make your own sounds.

00:00 Introduction
00:27 History of the Chroma synthesizer
01:38 Presenting the Cherry Audio Chroma
02:39 Oscillator features
06:56 Filter features
11:17 VCA features
12:42 Dual Layers configuration
16:49 Dual Layers + Oscillator Sync
18:47 Dual Layers + Ring Modulation
21:13 Filter FM
23:54 Parallel Filters
26:09 Parallel Filters + Oscillator Sync
27:04 Series Filters
31:44 Effects section
32:38 Factory Presets
39:41 Conclusion

2. Cherry Audio Chroma Expander Sounds of Chaos Beauty Virtual Synthesizer - Rik Marston Official - AhnyxianSoundDesign

3. Cherry Audio Chroma Expander Sounds of Light & Darkness Virtual Synthesizer VST - Rik Marston Official - AhnyxianSoundDesign

Press release follows:

May 14, 2024: Cherry Audio is excited to unveil Chroma, a groundbreaking virtual instrument that brings the legendary sounds of the 1982 Rhodes Chroma into the digital age.

CLICK FOR MORE »

New Moog Spectravox - Semi-Modular Analog Spectral Processor

Moog Spectravox | Jamie Lidell | Awake & Alive video upload by Moog Music

"Experience a captivating musical performance featuring Jamie Lidell's "Awake and Alive," an original composition showcasing the Moog Spectravox. The performance features Aaron Steele on percussion and Luke Schneider on pedal steel.

The Spectravox, Moog's latest semi-modular addition, is a groundbreaking tool for shaping sound. This analog spectral processor, built around a 10-band filter bank, generates lively drones and colorful tonal sweeps, enhancing external sounds with resonant depth and psychedelic spectral movement. With a microphone connected, Spectravox transforms into a 10-band analog vocoder, featuring innovative integrated modulation across all filters. Pushing the boundaries of vocoder and filter bank technology, Spectravox offers immense flexibility as an instrument and signal processor, complete with a comprehensive patch bay for seamless integration into studios of any size."



Playlist:
The Moog Spectravox is a Vocoder, a Spectral Processor and Much More - Reverb
Moog Spectravox is in production! // Review, tutorial and 10 patch ideas - loopop
Moog Spectravox: Overview + Explorations - Sarah Belle Reid
Spectravox x Subharmonicon - A Brief Explainer - Noir Et Blanc Vie
Moog Spectravox - Accidental Arpeggios feat. Moog Subharmonicon - Noir Et Blanc Vie
Moog Spectravox Sound Demo (Machine Talking) - Limbic Bits
Moog Spectravox Sound Demo (no human talking) - Bonedo Synthesizers



The Newest Member of the Moog Family

Spectravox, the newest member of the Moog semi-modular family, is a groundbreaking tool for sculpting sound. An analog spectral processor based around a 10-band filter bank, Spectravox creates lively drones and colorful tonal sweeps on its own and adds resonant depth and psychedelic spectral movement to any external sound. Hook up a microphone and Spectravox becomes a 10-band analog vocoder with innovative integrated modulation of all of its filters. An exploration and expansion of the topology of the vocoder and filter bank, Spectravox is a highly flexible instrument and signal processor with a comprehensive patch bay for integration into studios of all sizes.

A Groundbreaking Tool for Scultpting Sound

Synthesists have delighted in playing with the spectrum of sound since the Moog 907 Fixed Filter Bank appeared in the 1960s, creating lush vowel tones and multicolored timbral animation with hands-on level control of each frequency band of a sound. Unlike earlier fixed filter banks, however, the unique filters of Spectravox are no longer fixed in place and will jointly shift around the frequency space, allowing for the creation of otherworldly voltage-controlled spectral animation and vibrant phaser-like sweeps. With 10 filters whose variable resonance can morph from soft precision to shimmering choral effects, Spectravox reshapes the sounds you love into surprising new forms and brings a new world of sonic possibilities to your studio.

10-Band Analog Vocoder

Spectravox is a fascinating standalone sculptable synthesizer voice thanks to its built-in carrier sound source of a thick analog Moog oscillator and white noise generator. With its combo XLR/jack program input, Spectravox becomes a fully featured 10-band vocoder with a secondary filter bank for analyzing the spectral makeup of incoming sounds. In VOCODER mode its 10 analysis filters map the timbral characteristics of any external sound onto any other sound you can imagine. Shape the warm analog oscillator of Spectravox with the dynamics of your voice, or use a drum machine to animate guitar chords in a mesmerizing broadband percussive space.

Electronic Instruments for the Musician

Spectravox uses the pioneering vocoding work of Bob Moog and Wendy Carlos in the late 1960s as its inspiration—work which was based on Homer Dudley's original designs from the 1930s and which was used to prominent effect in Stanley Kubrick's 1972 film A Clockwork Orange. Innovating further from these early designs, Spectravox uses 10 state-variable filters for its filter bank, all 10 of which are capable of being shifted with its internal triangle wave LFO or external control voltage. With the ability to emphasize vowel sounds via the Hiss and Buzz functionality of the Moog 16 Channel Vocoder, Spectravox is both a major step forward for analog filter banks and a loving exploration of early music technology history.

Scramble the Frequency Spectrum

Scramble the frequency spectrum and create wonderfully unpredictable textures with patch points for each filter in the filter bank and included patch cables. Add analog warmth and subtle phasing to digital synthesizers and sound sources. Integrate Spectravox with other Moog semi-modular instruments or Eurorack modules with an extensive patch bay providing control over almost all of its parameters. Spectravox is a boundary-pushing instrument that invites you to explore creative new ways of shaping and sculpting sound.

PowerStrings for MSoundFactory - Orchestral Manoeuvres in the DAW

video upload by meldaproduction

Press release follows:



MeldaProduction pushes PowerStrings as MSoundFactory instrument tailored towards quickly crafting symphonic strings for modern pop or cinematic productions

PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC: following in the must-have footsteps of its DreamMachines (so-called VIRTUAL ANALOG DRUM DESIGNER) and Meldway Grand (software grand piano) as premium instruments for MSoundFactory, itself held in high regard as arguably the most powerful modular virtual instrument platform out there today by effectively allowing users to create their own instruments (alternatively available as MSoundFactory LE — providing access to all the sounds and instruments included with its bigger brother, but without access to the editing screen — and also for free as the self-explanatory MSoundFactory Player with only a few sounds included, although users can choose to purchase premium instruments), music production and audio processing advanced tools-maker MeldaProduction is proud to announce availability of PowerStrings — pushed as its next MSoundFactory premium instrument, this time tailored towards quickly crafting symphonic strings suited to the fast-paced production world of modern pop or cinematic music — as of May 13...

Orchestral Manoeuvres in the DAW
As an orchestral powerhouse, PowerStrings represents MeldaProduction’s latest MSoundFactory premium instrument, this time tailored towards quickly crafting symphonic strings suited to the fast-paced production world of modern pop or cinematic music. The timeless elegance of symphonic strings are creatively combined with a contemporary twist — to deliver rich and vibrant string sounds designed to instantly elevate tracks. Indeed, its streamlined interface and intuitive controls allow users to effortlessly add lush string arrangements to their compositions without slowing down their creative flow.

An assortment of ARTICULATIONS
PowerStrings proffers an assortment of ARTICULATIONS, ranging from smooth SOFT LEGATO to crisp SPICCATO settings, so users can achieve the perfect expression for any musical idea. It is possible to speedily switch between them during a live performance using a controller keyboard’s lower keys, or even enable multiple articulations at the same time. The premium instrument in question also allows for independent pitch and volume per articulation, which is ideal for extremely easy layering, while all ARTICULATIONS have access to detailed — Attack, Hold, Decay, Sustain, and Release — envelope settings.

Get CREATIVE
Strings should not necessarily always sound like strings — certainly in the context of modern pop or cinematic music production. PowerStrings’ CREATIVE ‘tab’ takes its users into a brave new world of sound, one where they can, for example, make the strings sound like a synth using the CONVOLUTION settings. Similarly, FM (Frequency Modulation) controls are also available, as is control over HARMONICS. Applying a pleasant-sounding DIFFUSION to the proceedings is, likewise, all part of getting creative.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Hans Zimmer 'RadioPhonic' Synth @ Superbooth 24 w/ AJH Synth

video upload by AJH Synth Official

"Hans Zimmer's 'RadioPhonic' Synth from AJH Synth @ Superbooth 24 - This monster MiniMod Eurorack modular system was commissioned by Hans himself, and he was kind enough to allow us to build a limited number of exact replicas which will be individually built to order by AJHSynth. Full details of the system, along with an interview with Hans Zimmer about his use of the MiniMod system, can be found at https://ajhsynth.com.
We will have one such RadioPhonic system on display in our bungalow at Superbooth 24, along with a MinMod Keyz, a 9U full system, and a huge monster case full of AJH modules.
Richard Quirk, and Wayne Taylor (DreamsOfWires/Tomorrow the cure) will also be there representing AJH with Allan J Hall himself. We'd be glad to chat about the modules and demonstrate some in action, so feel free to pop by.

The AJH SYNTH Eurorack range consists of high-end modules, all hand-made in the UK, most of which are based on classic, vintage designs, authentically recreating the circuitry of much sought-after analogue instruments and technologies of the past, whilst greatly expanding them, and bringing them to modern Eurorack levels of convenience, limitless flexibility, and reliability.
Official website page: https://ajhsynth.com"

Update: press release and pics follow:

CLICK FOR MORE »

Easel Chapter - Modular Synthesis: Patching Machines and People

video upload by Todd Barton

"Every Buchlaphile and especially Easel owners must read this enlightening and exciting chapter by Ted Gordon @ted_gordon on Instagram
https://www.routledge.com/Modular-Syn..."

"Modular Synthesis: Patching Machines and People brings together scholars, artists, composers, and musical instrument designers in an exploration of modular synthesis, an unusually multifaceted musical instrument that opens up many avenues for exploration and insight, particularly with respect to technological use, practice, and resistance.

Through historical, technical, social, aesthetic, and other perspectives, this volume offers a collective reflection on the powerful connections between technology, creativity, culture, and personal agency. Ultimately, this collection is about creativity in a technoscientific world and speaks to issues fundamental to our everyday lives and experiences, by providing insights into the complex relationships between content creators, the technologies they use, and the individuals and communities who design and engage with them.

With chapters covering VCV Rack, modular synthesis, instrument design, and the histories of synthesizer technology, as well as interviews with Dave Rossum, Corry Banks, Meng Qi, and Dani Dobkin, among others, Modular Synthesis is recommended reading for advanced undergraduates, researchers, and practitioners of electronic music and music technology.

Chapter 3 of this book is freely available as a downloadable Open Access PDF at http://www.taylorfrancis.com under a Creative Commons Attribution-Non Commercial-No Derivatives (CC-BY-NC-ND) 4.0 license."

Underworld | MODULAR SYNTHESIZER PERFORMANCE

video upload by synthesizersdotcom

"💥 Immerse yourself in the electrifying performance of "Underworld" by the supremely talented Giulio Carmassi on the Box 11 modular synthesizer from synthesizers.com. Experience the heart-thumping beat drops, resonate with the heavy bass, and get swept away by the stunning cinematography that brings the power of modular synthesis to life. 💥 Giulio Carmassi showcases the versatility of the Box 11, a pinnacle of analog synthesis, demonstrating not just the raw power but the intricate soundscapes made possible by modular design. This performance is a testament to the boundaries being pushed in the world of synthesizers."

Asking ChatGPT to come up with modular synth patches

video upload by Signal Sounds

"Video game sound designer and composer Michael Manning returns to the Signal Sounds channel to delve into the world of AI and modular synths. He feeds three prompts into ChatGPT - can it come up with modular patches that are actually any good?"

https://www.signalsounds.com/

You can find additional videos by Michael Manning here.

And his album here: https://sovnrecords.bandcamp.com/albu...

Tiptop Buchla Performance

video upload by Todd Barton

"My performance for the Modular World Tiptop Buchla Spotlight this past Sunday. [video below]

One of many amazing performances featuring the range of Tiptop Buchla modules. This performance features all the currently available modules including the external preamp input of the 207t mixer with my shakuhachi. Enjoy!

My Patreon: / synthtodd"

Ep43 - Spotlight: TIPTOP/BUCHLA

video upload by Modular World

"BUCHLA FOR THE PEOPLE!
Gur Milstein (TipTop), is working with Buchla under the consultation of Todd Barton to reissue the legendary 200 system from the early 70's. The best part--the modules are affordable.
I know Don Buchla would be very proud to see the kind of legacy that he has left behind if it means that more people could afford to touch his creations.

Modular World will always stand with stories about people, and the passions that push them to stand out. Gur Milstein (TipTop) told me that working with Don's old schematics to recreate these designs has been the greatest honor of his professional life. Yes.

Grab your popcorn and have a seat. With 18 performances and two amazing interviews, this is going to be good."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Modular Synthesis 101 | Part 2 | Oscillators

video upload by gstormelectro

"Audio + Video by G-Storm Electro c. 2024

Continuing my introductory series of videos on Modular Synthesis 101. Let's dive into the world of Oscillators, what they do, how to patch them, and a few tips and tricks.

0:00 | Intro and VCO Quick Recap
0:30 | Analog VCO - Typical Waveforms
1:36 | Pulse Wave and Pulse Width
2:35 | VCO Warm-up, Pitch CV and Oscillator Tuning
3:46 | Sub Octave Generator and V/Oct
5:04 | PWM - Pulse Width Modulation
6:52 | FM - Frequency Modulation
7:56 | Digital Oscillator

*BLOG* http://gstormelectronica.blogspot.com/
*LISTEN/DOWNLOAD* http://soundcloud.com/gstormelectro
**REVERB** http://reverb.com/shop/gstormelectro"

RANDOM GATES Modular Synthesizer Tutorial | How to Add RANDOMNESS to Your Sequences

video upload by synthesizersdotcom

"In this video, we're joined by George to take a deep dive into the exciting world of modular synthesis. 🎛️ Learn how to introduce an element of chance into your music with random gates. Whether you're looking to spice up repetitive patterns or create dynamic sequences, this tutorial will guide you through the process step by step.

If you're a fan of spontaneous, serendipitous sounds within your tracks, then you'll love these tips on using randomness to breathe life into your sequences. We cover everything from the basics of setting up your random gate modules to advanced techniques for crafting truly unpredictable soundscapes."

SUPERBOOTH24 Program Schedule

Press release follows:

The SUPERBOOTH BERLIN is excited to finally announce its performance and work- shop programming for this year’s SUPERBOOTH24.

After the record-breaking SUPERBOOTH23, the latest edition of the world’s largest trade fair and festival for electronic musical instruments is happening from the 16th to the 18th of May 2024 at FEZ-Berlin.

As a “trade fair with the spirit of a festival”, the Superbooth presents the latest products and technical developments in the realm of synthesizers and studio technology with over 250 exhibitors from all over the world, while also offering a comprehensive cultural program that celebrates the culture and joy of electronic music-making.

Over 30 international artists will be performing on three outdoor stages (including the new “Strandbar” stage) as well as two indoor stages for presen- tations and lectures. On the lineup for SUPERBOOTH24 are artists as varied as the Oscar award winning Hildur Guðnadóttir, the popular club performer Stimming, the Live-Techno artist and Lady Gaga collaborator Lady Starlight and the modular expert TamiX hailing from China.

The full performance program can be found over at www.superbooth.com under the rider “Events”.

Aside from these musical performances, there will also be workshops offe- ring an introduction to the world of modular synthesizers (including one specifically for women and nonbinary people), DIY Workshops, and numerous lecture concerts in which popular brands like Bitwig, UDO Audio und Korg Berlin will be personally demonstrating their latest products.

The SUPERBOOTH is always trying to create an open and welcoming space in which everyone that is interested can learn and experience. Part of that is the MINIBOOTH for children and teenagers, which offers adolescents a playful look into the world of electronic music-making and was already a fully sold-success last year. The MINIBOOTH will be happening as its own event on the weekend be- fore Superbooth, from the 9th to the 12th of May.

Those looking for a refreshment between this dense schedule will also be happy with the Superbooth’s comprehensive catering offering. New this year is a rooftop area located on the top of the FEZ-building with a bar, allowing visitors to end the evening in a relaxed atmosphere with a great view. And as always, there is also the idyllic „Bungalowdorf” located in the forest surrounding the FEZ.

As a mix between a trade fair, international scene meeting, conference and festival, the Superbooth is a forward-looking event that combines different aspects to create a unique space for musical encounters and experiences.

Pre-sale tickets are available over at www.superbooth.com under the rider “Tickets”. A three-day ticket is 98 euros (reduced: 79 euros), a one-day ticket is

39 euros (reduced: 29 euros). As always, there will also be a ticket box office at the event. We recommend arriving by public transport (S-Bahn station Wuhlheide), as parking opportunities near the event location are limited.

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."

Void & Vista: FOLDS

video upload by VOID & VISTA

Void & Vista: FOLDS Playthrough (No Talking)

video upload by VOID & VISTA

"A tour of some of the sounds available in Void & Vista's new vocal sound design instrument, FOLDS."

Void & Vista: FOLDS - Walkthrough

video upload by VOID & VISTA

Press release follows:

VOID & VISTA announces availability of FOLDS as intimate yet expansive boutique VI for Native Instruments’ KONTAKT platform and NKS-compatible devices

“I’m fascinated by the human voice, so anything that lets me use it in ways I’ve not heard before is a must; FOLDS can either sit amongst real voices, generating a unique and complex — yet subtle — character, or it can drive a piece up front with its own very performable and programmable settings.”
- GRAMMY-, BMI-, and World Soundtrack Awards-winning film composer David Arnold (Casino Royale, Godzilla, Independence Day), 2024

LONDON, UK: cutting-edge contemporary music-orientated virtual instrument creator VOID & VISTA is proud to announce availability of FOLDS — formulated as an intimate yet expansive boutique virtual instrument for Native Instruments’ KONTAKT platform and NKS-compatible devices, based upon the human voice and its creator’s award-winning sound design engine — as of March 28…

Creatively combining expressive, characterful, and unique sampling with powerful sound design features and an inspiring UI (User Interface) to offer 32 sound sources anchored around expressive vocal articulations and textures, both real and imagined, FOLDS is ideally suited to contemporary media composers, production music writers, and sound designers alike. And thanks to the variety of emotive textures that it offers, electronic music producers and artists across multiple genres can clearly expand their toolbox, too.

That being said, then, FOLDS’ bespoke collection of carefully curated male and female vocalist articulations incorporate soft and hard arrhythmic expressions; weaving and wavering vowels; broken reversed hums; evocative vocalisations designed for bass; sound effects; and more.

For FOLDS also features an inspiring collection of effect sounds, such as reverse granulations, as well as re-synthesised, deconstructed, and synthetically processed sounds using Eurorack modular, effect pedals, and tape machine manipulations. Sampled synth waveforms taken from a collection of analogue hardware are also featured.

FOLDS’ 32 sound sources can be layered, sculpted, and effected using a deep, two-layer sound design engine that includes multimode filters; dual motion LFOs (Low Frequency Oscillators); six envelopes; customisable LOFI effect; three-stage parallel CHARACTER effects (with presets and user impulse response import); and dedicated REVERB and DELAY in the SPACE section. Such sound design power is available to all via an inspiring and intuitive UI with over 150 controls — including access to a custom MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) mapping page and dedicated send effects — designed to keep users focused on making music.

Moreover, FOLDS comes complete with a vast collection of over 300 preset snapshots organised locally for ease of use; all have pre-assigned mod wheel and/or aftertouch modulation mappings for jaw-dropping sound manipulation and adding musical expression... evidenced by award-winning film composer David Arnold’s understandably uncurbed enthusiasm!

FOLDS is initially available to purchase for 20% off with the FOLDSLAUNCH20 discount code that is valid until May 8, 2024 — rising thereafter to its regular price of £129.00 GBP — as a KONTAKT PLAYER- and NKS-compatible AAX-, AU-, and VST-formatted virtual instrument plug-in featuring 4.5 GB of samples that is compatible with all major DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations) running on macOS 11 or above — natively compatible with Apple Silicon — and Windows 10/11 directly from the dedicated product webpage here: https://www.voidandvista.com/products/folds

The Lost City of G | MODULAR SYNTHESIZER PERFORMANCE

video upload by synthesizersdotcom

"⚡️ Welcome to the electrifying world of modular synthesis! 🎛️ Immerse yourself in "The Lost City of G," a mesmerizing modular synthesizer performance by the incredibly talented Giulio Carmassi. Watch as he weaves a sonic tapestry with intricate patches and pulsating rhythms that transport you to another dimension.

Make sure to keep up to date with Giulio's compositions: @giuliocarmassi"

Tone Science No.9 'Theories and Conjectures' - Various Modular Synth Artists Available Now

video upload by DreamsOfWires

"I have a track (a new version of 'Minimum') featured on the latest Tone Science compilation from Ian Boddy at DiN Records. Available as a digital download, and as a limited edition Digipak CD of 500 copies. Check it out here:

https://dinrecords.bandcamp.com/album...

'Minimum' was recorded entrirely within a Eurorack modular system - sounds, effects, mixing, WAV recording, as a real-time performance (no overdubs). All sound modules are AJH Synth. It uses 6 analog VCOs: The melody is a single VCO (lower frequency) supporting the self-resonating Ladder Filter (upper). The later pattern is 2 VCOs through the Ring SM sub-octave generator. The drone sound in the background is 3 VCOs, 2 through the Wave Swam, and all through the Triple Cross module, where they're cross-faded using 3 seperate LFOs.

From Ian Boddy:
Tone Science sub-label, from DiN records, continues to explore the world of modular synth music.

Following the success and critical acclaim of the first eight Tone Science compilation albums,
DiN label boss Ian Boddy has collated another nine tracks from musicians of varying backgrounds working in the realms of modular synthesis.

As the Tone Science journey continues it never ceases to amaze just how varied and individualistic each musicians work can be. Whilst the hardware is technologically based each artist teases out a reflection of their own musical personality.

This volume kicks off with two pointillistic compositions from Loula Yorke and State Azure with intertwining sequencer patterns flowing and coiling around to create ever changing soundscapes.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Buchla Easel Jam

video upload by Aleatoric Machine

"Jamming with the Triglav Modular Clockwork Card, Northern Light Modular cardOC CV Polymorpher, and NLM cardME Mobile Effect Engine. In Eurorack world I almost always have my Ornament & Crime in action, so the cardOC is a welcome addition to my Easel."

"The Chromed TONTO" - MASSIVE Live Modular Synthesizer w/ P-Thugg from Chromeo

video upload by Anthony Marinelli Music

Like a modern day TONTO - "The Chromed TONTO"

"Discover the unbelievable as Anthony and co-host Rob Rosen, synth tech to the stars, team up with special guest Patrick Gemayel, also known as P-Thugg from electro-funk duo "Chromeo," to unveil and construct the world's largest touring synthesizer - a towering 18 feet long and 8 feet tall, featuring 6 keyboards, all fully CHROMED! Dive into an epic unboxing and building session, culminating in an electrifying improvised synth jam.
In this captivating video, witness the step-by-step assembly of four colossal custom chrome modular synthesizer towers, drawing inspiration from iconic sources like Stevie Wonder’s TONTO synth, 1984 Bang & Olufsen speakers, and Seventies space-age furniture. Crafted and chromed by the legendary Roger Arrick from Synthesizers.com, these towers house cutting-edge modular synths with a unique behind-the-modules patching system, ensuring seamless performances with quick sound changes and full MIDI compatibility for patch cord free audience views.
Delve into the meticulous live performance setup of P-Thugg and his duo mate David Macklovitch (aka Dave 1), showcasing their mastery of Ableton Live and AbleSet for music playback, set lists, and lighting cues. Experience the behind-the-scenes magic as you join the conversation with the funk maestro "P" in his warehouse, where dreams of a chromed synth spectacle turned into reality. Don't miss out on this unforgettable journey into the heart of electro-funk innovation!

00:00:00 Intro (music)
00:00:55 Meet P-Thugg
00:01:11 Building the Modules / Jam 1
00:02:53 The MIDI Keyboards
00:04:53 Building the Tiers / Jam 2
00:06:33 Custom system by Synthesizers.com (https://shop.synthesizers.com)
00:12:15 Custom Tuner Module
00:13:10 Synthesizer Tuner Hack
00:14:10 Modular and Poly Synth Output Configuration
00:15:50 Look Mum, no patch cords - Hard Wired Presets
00:17:34 Culmination of a Modular Dream / Monster Polyphonic Dream Next
00:19:07 Building the MIDI / Jam 3
00:22:44 Fully Built Instrument (after 3 hours setting up)
00:24:05 Preset Patching System
00:29:47 Bypassing the Preset Patches
00:30:21 Switching Presets on Stage
00:33:40 Spontaneously Programming Sounds on Stage
00:34:42 P-Thugg's Favorite Sound
00:35:25 Presets Switch between Live Panel Settings
00:36:39 Re-creating the Album in a Live Setting
00:37:35 Changing The Face Panel
00:40:09 Patching the MIDI Polyphonic Synthesizer Keyboards
00:43:15 Tuning Drifting Oscillators - Custom Tuner Module
00:43:51 Connecting All 4 Modular Instruments
00:45:59 Cleaning the Chrome
00:46:35 MIDI Interface Routing
00:48:47 Moog Modular Flexibility with Minimoog Speed
00:49:14 Front Panel Tour
00:51:20 Overriding the Presets with Patch Cords / Multi-Mode Filter
00:53:34 AbleSet by Leolabs - Set Lists, MIDI Patch Changes, Ableton Live Playback connection (https://ableset.app)
00:56:10 Ableton Light Cues
00:57:02 DAW Software - Cubase, Pro Tools, Ableton Live
00:57:50 Adapting the Show to the Song
00:59:37 Chromeo's Mission
01:01:20 Conclusion
01:01:47 Logo (music)"

Exploring Effects in the Eurorack World!

video upload by The Unperson

"In today's video I'm exploring the wonderful world of effects. Modular effects can be more creative than guitar pedals due to the ability control, clock, and modulate the parameters. In the video I explore some creative patch techniques using effects and making make some tunes with some of my favourite modules!

CONTENT
0:00 - Intro
1:27 - Chorus
3:09 - Reverb
6:05 - Modulate Reverb
8:45 - Clocked Delays
11:50 - Beads!
14:39 - Combining Effects
18:28 - Outro"

"A World of Heritage" (Heritage Modular Synthesizers) - 8 Voice Digital Modular Synth

video upload by

"Présentation of the prototype 'HERITAGE SYNTHESIZERS' from Frédéric Rible.
Digital modular 8 voices synthesizer with complete legacy analog interface & analog like sound!
All sounds and effects are made by the Heritage Synthesizers in 6 lives sessions.
Sounds created by Frederic & kurtz.
Up left camera : Heritage Modular main stéréo sequence live work / Keystep pro Arturia.
Down left camera : Mister M across Heritage modular filter, "PPG like" pads & effects & Bigbass end line
Up Right Camera : Heritage Modular second stéréo sequence rythm noises, strings like pad, bass line.
Down Right camera : 'Inside' the Heritage, first Triangle solo , second Formant solo and big analog end pad.
Track by Jean-Luc Briançon.
Links :
https://www.heritagesynthesizers.fr/
https://kurtzmindfields.bandcamp.com/
Title will be availble on Bandcamp april 2024 on new EP."



"The Heritage Modular synthesizer has been designed to mimic the typical look and feel of an early 1970s modular synthesizer but with full polyphonic capabilities. The feasibility is tightly linked to the usage of digital technologies available in 2020 to DIY enthusiasts.

From a musician perspective, the system should provide the illusion of using a classical analog modular synthesizer with knobs, switches and patch cables.

The core of the synthesizer is based on Pure Data: a powerful sound engine for the generation and processing of audio signal. The underlying algorithms has been chosen for faithful emulation of analog circuitry characteristics. As the goal is to provide with hardware user experience, the Pure Data GUI is only used during the software development phase.

A dedicated set of hardware modules has been designed to act as controllers for Pure Data. These modules are populated with knobs, switches, lights and jack sockets, as for any other classical modular synthesizer. The communication between Pure Data and these hardware modules is done via an I2C bus implemented over a standard 16-pin Eurorack connector.

This project has started in July 2020 as a DIY effort, with a first version up and running in July 2022."

BOX11 TIPS AND TRICKS | Get the Most Out of Your Modular

video upload by synthesizersdotcom

"🎹 Dive into the world of modular synthesis with our latest YouTube video featuring Giulio Carmassi — a maestro of the synthesizer. Get an in-depth look at the Box11 from synthesizers.com and discover insider tips and tricks to unlock your creative potential. 🚀

Whether you're a seasoned synth enthusiast or just starting out, this video is packed with valuable insights that will help you make the most of your Box11. Watch as Giulio Carmassi breaks down complex techniques into easy-to-follow steps, allowing you to explore new sonic territories and refine your sound."