Pittsburgh Modular Taiga Keyboard v1.1 Firmware Update

video upload by Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers

Taiga Keyboard firmware 1.1 is now available for download at https://pittsburghmodular.com/taiga.

Firmware Version 1.1 Changelog:
• USB MIDI Added
• Corrected USB device name to "Taiga_Keyboard"
• Added some slight slew limiting to Aftertouch control to make it more expressively usable/
eliminate some signal noise.
• Rescaled keybed velocity to make use of the full output range.
• Fixed the pitch bend wheel so that it only sends Midi data when outside the center pitch,
and also it always returns to zero.
• Pitchbend in Paraphonic Mode Fixed
• Fixed MIDI clock subdivision; was previously not subdividing the MIDI clock.
• Added random wave mode to the oscillators
• Added random filter mode to the filter section
• Edit button now adds an arp note when running the arpeggiator in hold mode.
• Clock properly handles MIDI clock microstepping so that the ARP will deterministically
trigger on midi pulse 0 (out of 6) after receiving a MIDI clock start command.
• MIDI mod-wheel CC command is scaled to the value of the mod controller output rather
than just outputting the position of the mod wheel, giving access to the mod controller functionality to outboard midi gear when using taiga keys as a midi controller.
• Rewrote the mod wheel functionality to make full use of all 13 scalings for each mod mode, and added more behaviors to the mod modes that are selected with the octave buttons:
• 0-5v Mode
• Added 4 Sub-Modes
• 0-5-0v center low, edges high
• 5-0-5v center high, edges low
• 5-0v Inverted
• 0-5v
• LFO Mode
• Increased the range of the LFO, and fixed the phase relationship, also made the
LFO update after changing rate rather than after finishing a full cycle to make it more responsive at low frequencies. Also, added 4 Sub-Modes
• Sine Wave
• Triangle Wave
• Saw Wave
• Square Wave with PWM control rather than gain control
• Envelope Mode
• Fixed envelope length so that the mod mode value changes the length of the
envelope, rescaled the envelope lengths for all 13 values. Also, added 4 Sub- Modes
• Percussive Envelope
• Swell-y Triangle Envelope
• Reversed Percussion Envelope
• Sustain-y Envelope
• Random Mode
• Increased the number of different randomness timings, and increased the range of
these timings, and made them be more useful values that scale the randomness in a more naturally musical way. Also, added 4 Sub-Modes
• Soft Random Expression Generator
• Triangular Random Expression Generator
• Sawed Random Expression Generator
• Sample and Hold Generator

Pittsburgh Modular Voltage Lab 2 Overview Videos

Walkthrough Series video uploads by Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers

Playlist:
Voltage Lab 2 Laboratory Oscillator 1 Manual with Starsky Carr
Voltage Lab 2 Laboratory Oscillator 2 Manual with Starsky Carr
Voltage Lab 2 Laboratory Function Generators Manual with Starsky Carr
Voltage Lab 2 Laboratory Dynamics Controllers Manual with Starsky Carr
Voltage Lab 2 Laboratory Florist and Echos Manual with Starsky Carr
Voltage Lab 2 Laboratory Controls Manual with Starsky Carr
Voltage Lab 2 Laboratory Utilities Manual with Starsky Carr
Voltage Lab 2 Laboratory Touch Controller pt.1 with Starsky Carr
Voltage Lab 2 Laboratory Touch Controller pt.2 Manual with Starsky Carr
Voltage Lab 2 Laboratory Touch Controller pt.3 Manual with Starsky Carr

How to Update Taiga Desktop Firmware

video upload by Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers

"Firmware download, instructions, and change log are available at https://pittsburghmodular.com/taiga"

Pittsburgh Modular Voltage Lab 2 Sounds and Patching with Q&A

video upload by Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers

Superbooth 2024: MyVolts Alchemist 200W Isolated USB Power Hu

video upload by sonicstate

"Caroline from MyVolts introduced the Alchemist Power Distribution Hub (launching on Kickstarter today), highlighting its progression from prototype to production. This hub, designed with musicians in mind, offers five isolated outputs with up to 20 watts each, plus an additional output providing 100 watts, also capable of powering devices like a MacBook.

Kickstarter: https://bit.ly/myvolts-sb24

Alchemist can power various items, such as an Elektron Analog 4, Korg devices, and modular rigs from Intellijel, Pittsburgh and others with different voltage outputs through USB-C cables using the range of Step-Up tips including a new 15v converter.

The hub canb be powered by powerbanks an traditional power bricks, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of power sources. Caroline emphasized the hub's isolation feature, eliminating grounding issues common with other USB power supplies. There is also a non-isolated version available.

Additionally, Caroline showcased the evolution of their original *Crazy Chain*, now featuring a polarity indicator and a robust design capable of handling up to 100 watts.

The Kickstarter launch for the Alchemist gives early bird backers the opportunity to receive a free basic Alchemist unit (non isolated).

More info:
Alchemist Power Distribution Hub on Kickstarter"

MyVolts 'The Silent Alchemist' Isolated USB Power hub tested by @dasbefinden at Superbooth 2024

video upload by myVolts

"MyVolts is launching their Alchemist range of USB hubs for Guitar Pedals, Synthesizers, laptops, or whatever powers your mobile lifestyle.
We asked a myVolts power user who wanted to try a pedalboard USB power solution to try our product and let us know what he thought."

Press release follows:


myVolts launches innovative power hub for creatives: The Alchemist

Dublin, Ireland: myVolts Ltd launched today their newest products, The Alchemist and The Silent Alchemist – power hubs for musicians and other mobile creative professionals. The 30-day Kickstarter campaign kicks runs until 20th June 2024.

Over 6 months, myVolts surveyed its customers, gathering thousands of responses, to endeavor to fully understand gear power problems, and designed the hubs with exactly these needs in mind.

Also launched is a free browser-based app, myVolts PowerMyGear, that allows users to capture gear setups and learn how to power them. USB-C power has many standards and protocols, and this will help musicians learn exactly how to power gear safely and sustainably. The Alchemist is live on Kickstarter until 20th June 2024. Prices start at 199 EUR for the Alchemist Starter Kit. The products have been designed and developed, manufacturing will start during the campaign and product will ship to backers Oct 2024.

Features and Benefits

• Flexible input powering options: Power hub from either USB-C or DC.

• Anything in DC: Internal Voltage Boost Circuit Input allows input voltages of 9V. DC to 24V DC, any polarity. Even power the hub from an old laptop power supply.

• Full output voltage range: No voltage blindspots, USB-C outputs from 5V to 20V, regardless of input.

• No reboots: On-board chip manager for each port ensures no reboots when new devices are added.

• Chainable: Daisy-chain units together to expand number of available ports

• 24VDC output: 1x24 VDC output port, to power Strymon Ojay and other isolated pedal power boxes.

• Intuitive lighting system: USB-C output ports change to green when PD/QC protocols engaged.

• Flexible output options: Each USB port delivers PD-Equipped USB output. Change to specific DC voltages with barrel with Step-Up USB-C to DC Powertips.

• Chain devices: High power to allow stable chaining of multiple devices from single USB port with Crazy Chain Mk2.

• Isolated outputs: 7 isolated ports for noise-free operation [Silent Alchemist only].

• High power per isolated outputs: 20W per isolated port (usually 500mA for other isolated power supplies) [Silent Alchemist only].

• Macbook / Laptop charging: One 100W high-power port, charges even Macbook Pro.* SilentAlchemistonly.

myVolts has been solving the power problems of consumers and professionals for well over a decade, has six previously successfully funded and shipped Kickstarter campaigns, and served tens of thousands of happy customers on Amazon, eBay and their own webshop.

See the Kicstarter campaign for additional details.

Introducing the Pittsburgh Modular Voltage Lab 2

video upload by Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers

"Standalone Modern Analog Synthesis Laboratory
Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers’ long-anticipated successor to the Voltage Research Laboratory is filled to the brim with interesting new inventions, such as several new wave-shaping technologies, an addictive tactile performance controller, and more…"

The New, Experimental Synthesis of the Voltage Lab 2

video upload by Jorb

0:00 Intro
2:27 Hands on Begins
4:58 Oscillator One
11:01 Oscillator Two
16:29 Quick Look at Function Generators
18:26 Quick Look at Dynamics Controllers
19:04 FX
21:02 Chance Sequencer
22:37 Touch Controller Begins
26:56 Step Conditions
28:10 Step Jump Explained

Geek Chic // Sonic Experiments from the Voltage Lab2

video upload by Starsky Carr

"Dusting the cobwebs from my vintage 1950's lab coat - it was all the rage once honest.

Going into lab rat research mode and seeing where the maze takes me..

... and here's the results.

Just a little taster while I open the lab book to record apparatus, method, results, discussion and conclusion.

0:00 Bunsen Burner Big Beats
2:15 Plucking Pipettes (no pipettes were harmed)
3:06 Test Tube Techno (it's not techno)
5:59 She's Alive
7:44 Naked Flame
10:00 Medical Skeleton (its the Bare Bones)"

Pittsburgh Modular Voltage Lab 2 - Just Jammin'

video upload by

"Fascinating new modular system from Pittsburgh with a decidedly West Coast bent. Too soon for a review, but here's half an hour of playing with the rather remarkable sequencer, the timbre of the oscillators and other bits and pieces. I added some reverb via the Chroma Console but otherwise it's all the VL2."

The Sweet Spot: Voltage Lab 2 Semi-Modular Synthesizer
video upload by HAINBACH

"As anyone who has ever tried to assemble a modular synthesizer, it is not easy to create a cohesive instrument, especially if you try to narrow it down to a portable case. In comes The Voltage Lab 2 that Pittsburgh Modular send me to play with (thanks for that!) - it is a semi-modular self contained synthesizer, and to me it hits the sweet spot between functionality and musicality."

Also see The Lab Report Episodes for audio demos.



Press release follows:

May 14th, 2024 - Pittsburgh, PA Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers today announced Voltage Lab 2, a standalone dual oscillator analog synthesizer synthesis laboratory with a unique integrated touch-sensitive performance controller.

CLICK FOR MORE »

The Lab Report Episode 3: Hands-On Sound

video upload by Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers

"This Lab Report explores the touch controller of the Voltage Lab 2.

The Pittsburgh Modular Voltage Lab 2 is a cutting edge synthesis laboratory that offers a new palette of analog textures and waveforms to sonic researchers. Newly developed wave shaping capabilities paired with powerful synthesis tools, and a deep, performance oriented controller join together to create a complete sound design laboratory. This instrument has a very physical sound. The tones it creates feel natural and alive, with traditional waveforms becoming the seeds of unique new shapes and sounds that shift between analog physical modeling and more unfamiliar, abstract timbres."

The Lab Report Episode 2: New Waves

video upload by Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers

"This Lab Report explores the waveshapers of the Voltage Lab 2.

The Pittsburgh Modular Voltage Lab 2 is a cutting edge synthesis laboratory that offers a new palette of analog textures and waveforms to sonic researchers. Newly developed wave shaping capabilities paired with powerful synthesis tools, and a deep, performance oriented controller join together to create a complete sound design laboratory. This instrument has a very physical sound. The tones it creates feel natural and alive, with traditional waveforms becoming the seeds of unique new shapes and sounds that shift between analog physical modeling and more unfamiliar, abstract timbres."

The Lab Report Episode 1: Building on the Past

video upload by Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers

"This Lab Report explores the original Voltage Research Laboratory along with the upcoming Voltage Lab 2.

The Pittsburgh Modular Voltage Lab 2 is a cutting edge synthesis laboratory that offers a new palette of analog textures and waveforms to sonic researchers. Newly developed wave shaping capabilities paired with powerful synthesis tools, and a deep, performance oriented controller join together to create a complete sound design laboratory. This instrument has a very physical sound. The tones it creates feel natural and alive, with traditional waveforms becoming the seeds of unique new shapes and sounds that shift between analog physical modeling and more unfamiliar, abstract timbres."

Pittsburgh Modular: Why Our Synthesizers Are Better Than Fish

video upload by Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers

"Taiga Keyboard and Taiga Desktop are complete, modern, modular instruments that allows us to explore beyond the boundaries of a traditional analog synthesizer."

Pittsburgh Modular Taiga Family of Synthesizers is Now Complete

video upload by Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers

"Taiga Keyboard and Taiga Desktop are complete, modern, modular instruments that allows us to explore beyond the boundaries of a traditional analog synthesizer. More information is available at https://pittsburghmodular.com/"

Pittsburgh Modular Taiga Keyboard Live Demo with Q&A

video upload by Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers

"Deep dive with Richard into the Taiga Keyboard."

Introducing Taiga Keyboard Expandable Analog Synthesizer

video upload by Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers

"Taiga is a complete, modern, modular instrument that allows us to explore beyond the boundaries of a traditional analog synthesizer. The sound of Taiga can be attributed to three uniquely Pittsburgh innovations. A trio of huge analog oscillators, the unmistakably smooth sound of the Pittsburgh Filter, and the warmth of our Dynamics Controller. These enable us to not only create sounds that we would traditionally expect from an analog monosynth, but to also explore new sonic textures and performance possibilities.

Unique To Taiga Keyboard

Taiga Keyboard’s larger format provides the room for a few unique features. Most obvious is a full size 37 key premium keybed with velocity and aftertouch. The dedicated pitch and modulation wheels offer instant access to a unique set of modulation tools including manual control, clock sync’d LFO, envelope, and random source. 1/4 inch left and right output jacks, and full sized MIDI in and MIDI out DIN jacks are available on the rear of the instrument. The larger format also allows Taiga Keyboard to utilize larger, more spread out knobs and a second analog LFO.

Taiga Keyboard also includes a first-of-its-kind, 24hp Eurorack format modular expansion bay. The fully modular signal path of Taiga means modules can be inserted into any point of the signal path. Install a 4th or 5th oscillator into the expansion bay and create truly monster sounds. Additional filters allow for an expanded sonic palette. Add a sampler, sequencer, complex digital effects, or even a Maths. The integrated Eurorack expansion bay allows Taiga Keyboard to be customized to meet the unique needs of any artist."

Check with dealers on the right for availability.

Hangin' with Michael and Richard as they discuss the new...

video upload by Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers

"It is always nice to hang out with Michael and Richard."

Pittsburgh Modular Local Parks Oscillator Demo

video upload by Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers

"Deep dive into the Local Parks oscillator."

Local Parks got its first mention back in May of 2023 during SUPERBOOTH23.

via Pittsburgh Modular

"The Pittsburgh Modular Local Parks is drawn from our waveform manipulation research where advanced approaches to wave shaping throughout the oscillator showcase new sounds and unique waveforms. A full compliment of robust waveforms and modulation options paired with unmatched waveshaping creates a truly modern analog oscillator.

Our in-depth experimentation has created pulse waves which can be manipulated in multiple dimensions utilizing both Pulse Width and Pulse Shift. Pulse Shift creates an adjustable “step” within the pulse wave to further enhance the harmonic content of the wave. The wave used to create the pulse can be switched between sine and saw for additional sonic variation.

The Blade Wave is a morphing saw wave pitched one octave above the core frequency of the oscillator that smoothly shifts back to the core frequency as it changes shape. This creates a chorus-like effect on the sound of the Blade Wave without ever falling out of tune.

A Binary Logic waveform further expand the distinct sonic palette of the Local Parks. First utilized in our Narwhal Cymbal module, this waveshaper uses analog binary logic to create everything from gate effects to atonal bell like tones. The pulse and blade waves can be summed with the binary output for even more complex results.

Local Parks includes a built-in voltage controlled modulator to handle the bulk of modulation needs. This ensures that Local Parks can be a dynamic oscillator that produces evolving, high harmonic sounds within any eurorack setup."

Pittsburgh Modular Patch Lab

video upload by Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers

"How do you patch a modular synth? Richard Nicol fails while answering questions from the chat room."

Pittsburgh Modular The Toad - Phase Shifter Eurorack Module

Patch Lab with Richard Nicol video upload by Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers

The Toad was first mentioned in this SUPERBOOTH23 post.

via Pittsburgh Modular

"The Safari Series continues to provide artists with an advanced preview of innovative new concepts stemming from our research and design process. The seventh Safari Series reinvigorates the sound of one of our favorite vintage Pittsburgh modules.

Pittsburgh Modular The Toad phase shifter is a creamy, 12 stage, all analog effect module designed to expand on the classic swirls, rich swooshes, and doppler effects associated with the phaser.

The Toad has a single 12 stage audio signal path to create a very rich, full sound. Dual phased audio outputs are tapped from stages 7 and 12 and can be used together for wide, flowing, stereo effect. Each output has a switch that allows the phased signal to be mixed with a positive or inverted dry signal resulting in even more sonic flavors to melt with.

An attenuverting CV input and onboard triangle LFO allows for maximum flexibility for custom modulation options. Feedback can be positive or negative and The Toad is more than happy to self oscillate in either direction.

Price, Availability, and More Information
The retail price for Toad is $299 USD each. Because these modules are considered experiments, production has been limited to 200 modules."

Sentinel Waves by Richard Nicol

video upload by Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers

"A new song written for a live performance at the Sculpture Center Queens, NY. This track was inspired by the art installation Too good to be OK by Julian Abraham 'Togar'.
https://www.sculpture-center.org/exhi...

Song available on Bandcamp https://richardnicol.bandcamp.com/alb...

Instruments used: Pittsburgh Modular Taiga (leads and blips), Cre8audio East Beast (bass), and Pittsburgh Modular Safari eurorack drum modules (drums) are heavily featured along with a Juno 60 (sweep)."

00- The Pittsburgh Modular Taiga- Performance of Taiga Music- the creation of the demo theme

video upload by AutomaticGainsay

"Here is a video that portrays how the theme to the Automatic Gainsay Pittsburgh Modular Taiga demonstration series theme was created using the Taiga.

This video was funded by the Patreon supporters of Automatic Gainsay. Support the creation of this video and all of the Automatic Gainsay videos that have helped you by becoming an Automatic Gainsay supporter on Patreon! http://www.patreon.com/automaticgainsay

If you are interested in learning about the history of synthesizers and/or how to become a synthesist being taught by a synthesist and synthesizer historian, check out the OTHER Automatic Gainsay Patreon:

http://www.patreon.com/automaticgains..."

AutomaticGainsay Pittsburgh Modular Taiga posts

Don't Sleep On This Incredibly Affordable Analog Oscillator

video upload by Patchwerks

"In today's stream we are going to take a brief look at the Capt'n BIG-O, an all analog oscillator from Cre8audio.

Capt'n BIG-O is a meticulously crafted module designed for those with a deep appreciation for the raw beauty of analog waveforms. This module offers a pure analog signal path, eschewing chip-based oscillators to deliver a pristine and warm sonic experience.

In a collaborative effort with Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers, we embarked on a mission to encapsulate the essence of massive analog sound within a voltage-controlled oscillator module. This endeavor was met with initial skepticism, but Pittsburgh Modular eventually recognized the value of our vision.

Key Features of Capt'n BIG-O:
- Pure Analog, Original Design: This module boasts a fully analog signal path, ensuring the authenticity and warmth of your sound.
-Diverse Waveforms: Capt'n BIG-O offers a selection of essential waveforms, including sine, triangle, saw, and square, allowing for versatile sound sculpting.
- Flexible Wave Folding: The wave folder/waveshaper is thoughtfully designed to default to sine but can be patched to any waveform or external source, granting you creative control.
- High-Intensity Drive Circuit: Experience a robust 75x overdriven VCA with a potent 5V output, providing dynamic sonic possibilities.
- Linear and Exponential Frequency Modulation (FM): Explore a range of modulation options with both linear and exponential FM capabilities.
- Hard Sync: Achieve precise synchronization of your waveforms for tight and controlled audio synthesis.
- Pulsewidth Modulation: Fine-tune your wave's pulsewidth to attain nuanced tonal variations.

Capt'n BIG-O is your gateway to the world of analog audio exploration. Immerse yourself in the pure, unadulterated world of analog waveforms and elevate your sound to new heights. It's analog synthesis, redefined.

Get yourself a Capt'n BIG-O here: https://bit.ly/captn_bigo_osc

Erica Synths Black Low Pass VCF: https://www.patchwerks.com/collection...

https://www.patchwerks.com
Video by: Matthew Piecora (aka @EZBOT_ )"