Pro Synth Network LIVE! - Episode 215 with Special Guests, Cherry Audio!

video upload by Pro Synth Network

"Music Technology Discussion with Andrew Longhurst, Kent Spong and our very special guests, Dan & Mitchell of Cherry Audio!

This week we're delighted to welcome back Dan & Mitchell of Cherry Audio to talk about their latest offering, the Cherry Audio Chroma! We will also be ruminating about all the news coming out of Superbooth '24 in Berlin, from which we hope Rob will make an appearance!"

SoundPrism 2.5 Update - Videos

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.
YouTube Published on May 18, 2012 by Audanika

"An overview over all the new features in SoundPrism and SoundPrism Pro 2.5"

Playlist:
Update: SoundPrism 2.5
SoundPrism Pro and StepPolyArp
SoundPrism 2.5 Sound Demo with MoDrum, NLog Pro and Sunrizer
MIDI-In in SoundPrism Pro 2.5
Touch Point Visualization in SoundPrism
Switching between Keyboard View and Pitch Selections
Velocity in SoundPrism Pro 2.5
Advanced MIDI Settings in SoundPrism Pro 2.5
Disabling "React to local MIDI" in SoundPrism Pro 2.5
Enabling Fullscreen Mode in SoundPrism

iTunes:
SoundPrism Pro - Audanika GmbH
StepPolyArp - Midi Step Polyphonic Arpeggiator - Laurent Colson
MoDrum Rhythm Composer - finger
NLogSynth PRO - tempo rubato
Sunrizer synth - BeepStreet

iPads on eBay

The press release:

"Erfurt, Germany, March 18th 2012

Audanika, developers of the iOS touchscreen instruments SoundPrism and SoundPrism Pro have today released a new version of their popular apps featuring new MIDI control features (Pro only) and support for the new gorgeous display of the new iPad. SoundPrism, which has already been downloaded by more than 500,000 musicians, producers and DJs lets users create pleasing music using a simple and beautiful interface without any prior knowledge of music theory.

With its new MIDI features SoundPrism Pro is now able to be used as a destination for other MIDI controllers which means its sound packs can be triggered by other iOS MIDI apps, or even external controllers like USB MIDI-keyboards. It is now even possible to route the MIDI information generated by SoundPrism Pro to iOS arpeggiators like StepPolyArp and back again into SoundPrism Pro. Furthermore SoundPrism Pro is now also compatible to the DSMI standard which lets it connect to Mac, Windows and even Linux systems.

To get a better idea of the amazing possibilities of SoundPrism Pro’s MIDI control features take a look at our YouTube video here.

Soundprism Pro can connect with your PC/Mac via a wireless network or USB MIDI using the iPad Camera Connection Kit. It is available for $7.99 (50% sale from $15.99 for a limited time) whilst the standard app is a free download.

About Audanika
Audanika GmbH creates innovative digital music instruments. We're a group of academics with a background in software development and new media who have dedicated large parts of our lives to either learning, playing or teaching music. Our goal is to enable more people to do so and fall in love with their creations just as we did."

Arturia Announces BeatStep Pro

Arturia presents BeatStep Pro, Pure Sequencing Powehouse

Published on Jan 22, 2015 Arturia Web

"Arturia’s musical heart beats bigger and better with world-class controller and step sequencer

GRENOBLE, FRANCE: music software and hardware developer Arturia is proud to launch BeatStep Pro — an all-new world-class controller and dynamic performance step sequencer — at The NAMM Show 2015, January 22-25 in Anaheim, California...

Having wowed crowds at last year’s Winter NAMM show with the introduction of its breakthrough BeatStep, a compact chameleon controller and step sequencer that’s as powerful as it is portable, this time Arturia is taking things several steps further forward by introducing its bigger brother, BeatStep Pro. As an all-new world-class controller and dynamic performance step sequencer that is unmatched in power and connectivity, BeatStep Pro has been designed to professionally perform — onstage or in the studio. Whether you’re working with MIDI-, USB-, CV/Gate-, or DIN Sync-equipped gear, BeatStep Pro helpfully has your back by covering all bases and more besides. Indeed, its CLOCK connections can work as a 1:1 clock with an external clock generator or DIN Sync, so you can be sure that anything and everything you’ve got connected will play happily in time together leaving you to focus your energies on creative performance.

Put simply, BeatStep Pro has been designed from the ground up to provide an amazing hands-on hardware sequencing experience with 16 touch-sensitive knobs for entering of pitch, gate, velocity amounts, and timing shifts per step. It includes two independent (colour-coded) monophonic step sequencers, each with dedicated displays to show the current playback position and bank length of the currently selected sequence. SEQUENCER 1 and SEQUENCER 2 have been greatly expanded with up to 64 steps per sequence, 16 sequences per project, and 16 projects, making BeatStep Pro one of the most impressive step sequencers ever made. Moreover, each sequencer has its own 1V/Oct CV (Control Voltage) and (10V) GATE outputs to connect to suitably-equipped analogue monosynths, such as Arturia’s award-winning MiniBrute or MicroBrute, together with a separate VELO (Velocity) output to allow for even more possibilities when working with a modular synth system setup.

An additional DRUM sequencer allows for 16 separate tracks of sequencing. Record in quantised realtime via the 16 pressure sensitive pads or use the 16 step buttons for a classic drum machine workflow. Speaking of which, when working in SEQ1 and SEQ2 mode those pads can control pitch transposition as well as accessing various musical scales — such as Chromatic, Major, Minor, Dorian, Mixolydian, Harm Minor, Blues, and also a User setting — while the DRUM sequencer itself also has eight DRUM GATES at its disposal (to send gate outputs from the corresponding pads for triggering external devices). Drums and sequences living in perfect harmony, see? Believe us, seeing is believing!
BeatStep Pro is also a controller, of course. Switching from PROJECT to CONTROL MODE means users can trigger clips in their favourite DAW (Digital Audio Workstation), play drum sounds from an external module, or adjust parameters in their favourite plug-in. Possibilities are (almost) endless, limited only by (lack of) imagination.

Indeed, the well-specified, super-slender BeatStep Pro is a highly-desirable design. One which goes well beyond any other step sequencer currently on the market, thanks to an added arsenal of performance effects such as a realtime ROLLER/LOOPER touch strip; PROBABILITY, RANDOMNESS, and SWING settings; plus other hands-on controls that are sure to make it a modern-day classic for tomorrow. To see one is to surely want one. Just as well, then, that it comes complete with a Kensington lock to ensure that it stays with its rightful owner!

BeatStep Pro will be shipping in Spring 2015 and available to buy directly from Arturia online or through the company’s global network of dealers and retailers for €249.00 EUR/$299.00 USD."

Heritage Audio Introduces SYNTH BUDDY - World’s First Desktop 10 to 1 Reversible Passive Stereo Switch

video upload by Heritage Audio

Press release follows:


Heritage Audio announces availability of SYNTH BUDDY as world’s first desktop 10 to 1 reversible and fully passive stereo switch

MADRID, SPAIN: European pro audio manufacturer Heritage Audio is proud to announce availability of SYNTH BUDDY — billed as being the world’s first desktop 10 to 1 reversible and fully passive stereo switch as a cost-effective, essential studio solution for seamlessly connecting up to 10 stereo (or 20 mono) line level sources, such as synths, drum machines, or samplers, and toggling between them with the twist of a knob — as of January 15, 2025…

It is fair to say that anyone who has ever dreamed about an inexpensive solution to help have multiple synths, drum machines, samplers, and other line level instruments connected and available with the twist of a knob can wake up and smell the coffee, courtesy of Heritage Audio’s SYNTH BUDDY. Indeed, its top panel-positioned 10 x1 STEREO PASSIVE SELECTOR wording gives the game away as it is possible to seamlessly connect 10 stereo (or 20 mono) line level sources to its 10 stereo/20 mono TS jack inputs and toggle between them with the twist of a knob (outputting via one stereo/two mono TS jacks) — simple as that! Talk about a dream becoming reality. And an all-passive design ensures crystal-clear line level signals with no added colouration — straight from the user’s musical mind to the song with no power source needed.

Needless to say, when creativity hits, there is no time for plugging in cables and switching gear. After all, many have experienced the creativity-killing scenario of having a great musical idea seemingly arrive out of nowhere, only for it to disappear by the time everything is set up and ready to record; no such worries when working with SYNTH BUDDY, of course, since everything is connected and available at the twist of a knob.

It is even possible to use SYNTH BUDDY ‘backwards’ by turning it into a one-input/10-output selector, so users can, for example, easily run one guitar or bass into several amps or effects — applications are (almost) endless! Either way, SYNTH BUDDY is built like a tank with an elegant desktop design — measuring merely 190mm (W) x 105mm (D) x 80mm (H) while weighing in at only 988g — that lends itself to studio or stage usage... and all without breaking the bank!

SYNTH BUDDY is shipping and available via Heritage Audio’s growing global network of dealers (https://heritageaudio.com/where-to-buy-international/) with an SSP (Standalone Selling Price) of €199.00 EUR (including VAT) in the EU and a MAP (Minimum Advertised Price) of $199.00 USD, US distribution being handled via RAD Distribution (https://raddist.com/en/brands/heritage-audio).

For more in-depth information, please visit the dedicated SYNTH BUDDY webpage here: https://heritageaudio.com/synth-buddy/

Superbooth 2025: PPG 1002 Demo

video upload by Pro Synth Network

"Robbie has a little play with a €10k synth!! The PPG 1002 is a brand new version of Wolfgang Palm's original analogue mono synth, hand-built to order from Wolfgang's original circuit diagrams and schematics."

SOUNDMIT 2017 - International Sound Summit - Torino - 3/5 November 2017

Published on Feb 20, 2017

"Born in 2017 from the experience of SYNTHMEETING event in Torino, It is its natural evolution and inherits all the know-how acquired in six long years of work and success.

SOUNDMIT - International Sound Summit, created from the same working group of SYNTHMEETING, is the new and biggest event dedicated to musical instrument's world in Italy.

Entered in the Turin art week on 3/5 November 2017, SOUNDMIT welcomes the SYNTH MEETING and opens the doors to other sectors of the musical world: Software, Dj Point, Makers, Schools, Recording studios, Record labels, Luthiers, Dealers and Manufacturer are just some of the innovations included in this new event."

http://www.soundmit.com
http://www.soundmit.it

And the official press release:

"Torino, February 2017

SYNTH MEETING present SOUNDMIT (International Sound Summit)

We are pleased to finally announce the developments of the S YNTHMEETING o f Torino during the last months.
The SYNTHMEETING , which began in 2011 from an idea of F rancesco Mulassano a nd ran till 2016 together with Luca Torasso, will be part of a newest and bigger event.

After the success of the sixth edition which brought over 2 500 visitors and 60 international brands to Torino, we have decided to take a step forward.

In 2016 we set up the Associazione Culturale NOISECOLLECTIVE with the founding members being Francesco Mulassano, Luca Torasso and Luca Minelli ( www.noisecollective.net ) then we enlarged the network with some acquisitions. Are part of NOISECOLLECTIVE :

- SYNTHMEETING , the only event dedicated to the world of synthesizers and electronic musical instruments capable of involving over 2500 people and 60 international brands (data from 2016)
- The Facebook group SYNTH CAFÈ, with more than 14,000 members is a reference point in the field of synthesis and electronic music in Italy, created by L uca Minelli in 2011.
- The music portal ULTRASONICA h as been an online reference point since 2004 for music news and live event photos with an exclusive photographic archive which hosts over 12,000 photos.

- The Facebook group STRUMENTI MUSICALI USATI with 5400 members is among the largest and most active italian groups for buying and selling musical instruments on Facebook.

These acquisitions have immediately incremented the network guaranteeing a group of nearly 22,000 members.
After the closing of the sixth edition of the meeting we immediately started working on creating a new event which inherits the know-how gained through the experience of the SYNTHMEETING and the other events which followed in these months (MOD01, OpenDay, The Golden Synth Era with Felice Manzo, Arduino and Synth with Pier Calderan, Modular Synth Masterclass con Gino Robair).

SOUNDMIT - International Sound Summit ( www.soundmit.com)

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Wireless MIDI via OSC using Pianist Pro

Another step closer. Is this the first iPad instrument/synth app with native OSC support?
YouTube via MooCowMusic — April 21, 2010 — "New for Pianist Pro in the V1.2 update.

Control your DAW and hardware synths wirelessly via OSC with Pianist Pro. Use Pure Data (a free application for both OSX and Windows) on your PC to receive the OSC calls and translate them into MIDI messages to suit your setup.

Play your digital piano from the sofa, or even from another room...

For more information see our website at- http://moocowmusic.com"

via MooCowMusic:
"We've added OSC support so that you can use your iPad to control your DAW or hardware synths wirelessly. All you need to do is install a simple (and free) application called "Pure Data" onto a PC / Mac on the same wireless network as your iPad, and use the provided patch to convert the OSC messages sent by Pianist Pro into MIDI messages. Those MIDI messages can be recorded on your DAW, and control soft or hardware synthesisers. Pure Data patches are easily configured to suit your setup. Play your digital piano from your sofa, or even from another room!

We are just putting the finishing touches to this free update and hope to have it submitted to Apple in the next couple of days.
For more information about Pianist Pro, please see our website- http://moocowmusic.com"

moocowmusic on iTunes:



Another step closer. Is this the first iPad instrument/synth app with native OSC support?

The holy grail will be the ability to go directly from your iPad to your hardware synths for multi-track sequencing (with virtual sliders and knobs to control assignable parameters), along with the ability to sync your native iPad synths with your external gear, all, of course, wirelessly. The only way this will scale across multiple apps is if we have a new standard - here's hoping OSC becomes that standard.

Currently I'm aware of three manufacturers with hardware MIDI for the iPad:
Akai's SynthStation25
Line 6's MIDI Mobilizer
iConnectivity's iConnectMIDI
I'm not sure if any of these plan to use OSC. If you are watching, please look into this.

Currently I have my eye on iConnectMIDI. There's no mention of OSC, but if you look at the iPad/iPhone app icons on their website, you will see what looks like an icon for Pianist Pro.


BTW, I just created an OSC label. As you can imagine searching on OSC brought up a ton of posts mentioning oscillators rather than Open Sound Control. That said, I'm sure I'm missing a ton of OSC posts in the archives. If you spot any, comment in the post, or shot me an email and I'll update it.

Superbooth 2025: Moog Messenger with Erik Norlander

video upload by Pro Synth Network

"Robbie chats with Erik Norlander, Director of Keyboard Product Development for the inMusic Family of Brands, about the brand new Moog Messenger mono synth."

SynthfestUK 24 Synth Coverage

video uploads by sonicstate

Update: moving this post up once as new videos have been added. Bookmark this post for updates.

Use the player controls to skip around.

Playlist:

1.SynthfestUK 24: Knobula - Synth Modules and Toy Pianos

At SynthfestUK 2024, we met up again with Jason, who gaves us the updates in the world of Knobula. On display was the new 'dark mode' Poly Cinematic module, for more monochrome rigs ;-]

2. SynthFestUK 24: PWM - More Mantis News

At the show we made a beeline for the PWM stand, where Paul gave us the latest Mantis news.
And yes, it's out there in the world now!

3. SynthfestUK 24: Roland Unveils the Juno-D Series with Zen-Core Sound

We caught up with Andrew and Ludwig who showed us around the new updated Juno-D series: Juno-D6, D7, and D8. They have the same keyboard action as the Fantom-O series and a new colour screen, making it easier for performers to navigate on stage. And they can be powered by a USB-C mobile battery, perfect for buskers ;-) Running Roland's Zen-Core sound engine, they also incorporates features like a 64-step sequencer and a phrase pad for live sample triggering.
Prices range approximately from £949 to £1199.

CLICK FOR MORE »

The Bob Moog Foundation Fall 2024 Raffle - "No Talking" Demo!

video upload by Pro Synth Network

"We have been very lucky to be involved with helping out on the latest Bob Moog Foundation Raffle. This time, a classic vintage Minimoog Model D, signed by Peter Gabriel and restored by our very own Kent Spong, can be won.

Andrew goes through the gloriously deep, rich and distinctly Moogy tones of this incredibly special raffle prize, signed by the legend that is Peter Gabriel.

There has never been a more important time to support the Foundation. Hurricane Helene tore through Asheville, NC, home of the Moogseum, last month, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. Although it only sustained minor damage, the loss in trade from being unable to open will hit the Foundation hard.

Buying tickets for the raffle is an excellent way to help out with the added bonus of being able to own this singularly unique and iconic synthesizer.

Look out for more video content to be released throughout the raffle!

Buy tickets here: https://moogfoundation.org/fall-2024-...

Be quick! The raffle ends on the 28th October 2024!

Huge thanks to the amazing and inimitable Michelle Moog-Koussa for this opportunity to support an organisation that is very dear to our hearts. Please support her work however you can."

Superbooth 2024 Walkabaout

video upload by Pro Synth Network

"Hi everyone!

So here we are. It's a week since Superbooth 2024 and the post-Booth Blues have already kicked in. It was another remarkable week in Berlin, filled with amazing people, amazing gear and mediocre beer!

In this video, which you are getting an exclusive first look at, I walked almost the entirety of the Superbooth site, from the Bungalowdorf to the upper levels of the main building at FEZ. I tried to capture as much of the gear that was there and hopefully give you a taster of the Superbooth experience.

This video was filmed on the final day and the weather, whilst still lovely arm warm, was a little more subdued. The sun was hiding away, which was a shame because Superbooth in full sunlight is an amazing sight to behold.

So hopefully this video will give you a feel of the place and the vibe. You may see some familiar faces, you'll definitely see some familiar gear, and some new stuff too! Unfortunately, there were things that only a lucky few got to see and we were sworn to secrecy, but trust me, there are great things coming!

Let us know what your highlights and lowlights of this year's event were. Point out people you know and be sure to leave your comments below :-)

Enjoy! :-)

Robbie x"

Emulator II 40th Anniversary | Podcast

video upload by Sound On Sound magazine

"In celebration of the 40th anniversary of the groundbreaking E-mu Systems Emulator II sampler, Dave Rossum, Kevin Monahan and Paul Wiffen share inside stories of the development and manufacture of the instrument, their struggles to get around the technological limitations of the time and how the instrument was widely adopted by bands, artists and pop culture.

Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
01:50 - The Origins Of The Emulator
03:59 - The E-mu Name
04:57 - Kevin's Background
08:09 - Paul's Background
11:19 - The Motivation For Creating Emulator II
16:26 - Specific Challenges
25:19 - The Challenges Of Adding Hard Drives
30:35 - How Did The Iconic Industrial Design Come About?
35:11 - Having Two Disc Drives
38:22 - How Artists Responded To The Emulator II
46:46 - Using Sampling To Create Novelty Sounds
56:08 - Kevin's Contribution To Ferris Bueller's Day Off
57:37 - The Legacy Of The Emulator II And Sampling

CLICK FOR MORE »

ISLA Instruments Caladan EXCLUSIVE UPDATE!

video upload by Pro Synth Network

"Brad from ISLA Instruments gives us some exclusive updates on their next instrument, the Caladan!"

ISLA Instruments Caladan

Sonicware ELZ_1 play Unboxing with Andrew Longhurst

video upload by Pro Synth Network

"Courtesy of My Longhurst, here's an exclusive video for our Patreons & YouTube Members of him unboxing & exploring the Sonicware ELZ_1 play.

The ELZ-1 play builds on the success of Sonicware's first ever instrument, the ELZ_1 and benefits from the knowledge and experience gained by Sonicware whilst creating their LIVEN units as well as SmplTrek and the LoFi-12 XT."

Superbooth 2019 Make Pro Audio Networked Controllers

Published on May 10, 2019 sonicstate

Previous posts.

New eurorack module:

"We all love Eurorack for all the infinite possibilities it presents to create new sound machines. However, when you aspire for more voices and more timbres within Eurorack, that usually requires a significant amount of space and budget outlay. That leaves you no viable options, other than to leave your Eurorack and attempt to connect with outboard gear that does not easily integrate. Now – with Dino Park – you gain access to a world of infinite sonic possibilities, while staying within your Eurorack!

Dino Park is not fixed synthesis architecture – it is as flexible as your Eurorack. It can load different “synth models” which feature radically different forms of synthesis – including vintage subtractive, additive, wavetable and FM – providing infinitely expandable and exciting sonic capabilities in every Eurorack.

Now increasing the sonic potential of your Eurorack has never been easier, or more affordable! . For newbies, Dino Park offers an easy, cost effective and gratifying way to start off their rack journey with a big sound foundation. For Eurorack veterans, Dino Park can close a lot of gaps and enrich any Eurorack performance. True “ best of” utility in big analog sound with the recall-reliability of digital.

We offer three Dino Park kits for the Eurorack"

CLICK FOR MORE »

NLogSynth PRO & NLog MIDI Synth Updated

"Today new updates 5.0 of NLogSynth PRO for iPad and NLog MIDI Synth for iPhone/iPod touch will be available via App Store for free.

While working hard at the new NWave app in collaboration with Waldorf, we took some time to update the classic virtual analogue synth apps of TempoRubato. In the last couple of months the codebase was renewed to add flexibility for projects like the NWave app and more to follow.

The NLogSynth update adds most wanted user requests and further complements the app with outstanding features:

- MIDI Learn
- Overdub Recording & Looping
- Sound Bank Import & Export
- True Mono/Legato Mode
- Export Media Files in another App
- Core MIDI Network Support
- Reset Parameter to Default Value
- Full MIDI CC Range 0-127 for external control
- New Default Sound
- Running Phase parameter improved & fixed.
- Update to new SDK for Akai SynthStation 25
- Modulation of the keytrack source has been increased within modulation matrix (iPad only)
- The “flat” setting for envelope slopes fixed (iPad only)
- Optimization for devices with arm7 based CPUs
… and many other fixes and improvements.

Our feature lists are fully packed with further ideas, user requests and more for upcoming updates. TempoRubato will continue to further develop NLogSynth apps apart from releasing new apps.

The Mac standalone app and AudioUnit version of NLogSynth will follow with a corresponding update in the following weeks.

Happy Synth!"

iTunes:
tempo rubato
iPads on eBay
iPod Touch on eBay

MUSE RECEPTOR PRO Jr. 750GB VST SOFTWARE SYNTH RACK UNIT

via this auction

"This is the Receptor PRO Jr., meaning it has the upgraded CPU and RAM but origanlly had 400 gb smaller hard drive and was upgraded to a 750 gb drive which was the largest in this series of units, so you have more than enough space.

It is mounted within a 2"foam re-inforced Anvil road with removable front and back case.

Also included are the following software programs (worth hundreds of dollars): Spectrasonics Atmosphere, Native Instruments B4II, Kompakt Nostalgia, Bosendorfer Ivory, MTron, and SampleTank 2. Look them up. You would pay over $800 in software to buy these package programs. I have never toured with this rig and it has limited hours on the machine. I used it in 2008 for a recording session. The strings/mellotrons on Rocco Deluca's "Mercy" album, recorded with Daniel Lanois were from this Muse Receptor.

Also incuded is a 17" Envision Monitor, a full sized typing keyboard and a mouse.

Other soft-synth programs that come inside this machine ( I am picking out the better ones... ) include: 4 Front Bass Module, 4 Front EPiano Module, 4 Front Piano Module, 4 Front Rhode Module, A Sine, Cheese Machine, Claw, ComboSister, CosmoGirl, Crystal, daAlfa2k, daHornet, Delay Lama, Drawbar, Drum Kid 4, DX10, E-Flex, EMM Knagalis, Enigmatron, ePiano, EVE, Express 3, Free Alpha, GTG 7, GTG Micro, JG-3, LogSynth, MPS.1, Mysteron, OnePingOnly, Pandemonium, PDPoly, Piano, PQNCooly, PQN Mopar, sf2, Synger

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Modbap Introduces HUE "AUDIO COLOR PROCESSOR" Eurorack Module

video upload by Modbap Modular

Modbap Modular makes colorful Eurorack entrance at Brooklyn SYNTH+PEDAL EXPO with HUE debuting as AUDIO COLOR PROCESSOR


LOS ANGELES, CA, USA: following hot in the footsteps of Trinity, the fourth entry in its expanding Eurorack product lineup as a three-channel DIGITAL DRUM SYNTH ARRAY (as introduced at Knobcon Number Ten, a one-of-a-kind synthesizer convention held just outside of Chicago, IL, USA at the Hyatt Regency Schaumburg, September 9-11), black-owned Eurorack modular synthesis and electronic musical instrument manufacturer Modbap Modular is proud to debut HUE as its latest Eurorack entry — this time being billed as an AUDIO COLOR PROCESSOR, packing a chain of five effects (each imparting a particular coloration, tone, distortion, and/or texture to the source audio) into a 6HP- width module, making drums bang with more magnitude and melodies morph into lush lo-fi tones — at Brooklyn SYNTH+PEDAL EXPO, a free-to-the-public pop-up event of synths and guitar effect pedals, at 718 Studios, Brooklyn, NYC, USA, October 8-9…

“HUE was originally designed as the effects section for Trinity; the thought was to create an effects section that would simulate the classic, lush boom- bap and lo-fi vibes that we’ve come to love.” So says Modbap Modular founder/owner/designer Corry Banks, before continuing: “I want to bring those nostalgic textures that make things bang a bit harder and feel a bit grittier and more soulful into a single Eurorack module. HUE pairs very well with drum sources, such as Trinity, or melodic sources, such as Osiris, to further cultivate ‘that sound’. Saying that, HUE, in moderation, makes things sound more beautiful, but it can become brolic when pushed to its limits.”

Maximum (musical) muscle notwithstanding, HUE’s goal is to simply color its user’s sound — hence highlighting that the aim of its name is true, thanks to the COLOR PROCESSOR wording written across the top of its slimline front panel. Its initial concept was born out of a debate about the techniques and processes used to make drum machines sound so big, bold, and delicious. It is worth bearing in mind here, then, that the sounds that tug at the heartstrings of boom-bap, lo-fi, and, subsequently, Modbap — meaning the fusion of modular synthesis and boom-bap (or, indeed, any form of hip-hop) — are those demonstrating great texture, lush degradation, soft distortion, and big bold strokes of color.

Classic beloved drum machines were often processed with outboard gear; recorded to tape; pressed to vinyl; played over big, booming sound systems; sampled; resampled, and so on. It is no surprise, therefore, that those are the sounds that become nostalgic and reminiscent of all that the black-owned Eurorack modular synthesis and electronic musical instrument manufacturer adores about classic lo-fi boom-bap production, with HUE representing its attempt at bringing that vibe into Eurorack as a 6HP-width module.

Acting as a COLOR PROCESSOR, HUE’s effects chain signal path is as follows: DRIVE, FILTER, TAPE (saturation), LO-FI, and COMP (compressor), with the panel layout allowing for the DJ-style FILTER knob to sit in first position for ease of tweaking — LP (low-pass) when turned to the left through to HP (high- pass) when turned to the right. Digging deeper, DRIVE boosts and lightly distorts the signal, while SHIFT+DRIVE adjusts the DRIVE tone; the TAPE effect is intended to impart cassette tape saturation, while SHIFT+TAPE adjusts the intensity; LO-FI adjusts bit depth, while SHIFT+LO-FI adjusts sample rate; and, lastly, the one-knob COMP mini-pot serves as the final glue in the signal path that brings everything together. There are also DRIVE CV, FILTER CV, TAPE CV, and LO-FI CV inputs, as well as mono INPUT and OUT connections, collectively opening up a wealth of creative possibilities. Put it this way: when throwing creative modulation at it, HUE is truly a textural beast.

But best of all, HUE puts the power to shape and transform its user’s sound at their fingertips — perfect for beefing up drums while equally as magical when working on melodic content, which is exactly why it pairs so well with Trinity (https://www.modbap.com/products/trinity), the fourth entry in Modbap Modular’s expanding Eurorack product lineup as a three-channel DIGITAL DRUM SYNTH ARRAY, and Osiris (https://www.modbap.com/products/osiris), a sensational-sounding BI-FIDELITYTM WAVETABLE OSC (oscillator) module for Eurorack (introduced to widespread critical acclaim at last year’s Knobcon Number Nine). Needless to say, HUE — like its Eurorack siblings — exemplifies Modbap Modular’s musical mantra: Made for Eurorack, dope enough for boom-bap!


Expected to ship in late-October 2022, HUE is available to preorder at an MSRP (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price) of $299.00 USD via San Clemente, CA, USA-based distributor Electro Distro’s growing global network of dealers (https://www.electro-distro.com/dealers) — including Sweetwater (https://www.sweetwater.com), the USA’s number one eCommerce provider of music instruments and pro audio gear — or directly via its dedicated webpage (which includes more in-depth information) here: https://www.modbap.com/products/hue

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Moogfest 2017: Program Themes & Lineup Announcement

Just a heads up, the lineup for Moogfest 2017 has been announced. As always, check out moogfest.com for full details on the event. The following is a small capture for the archives via the Moogfest newsletter.

"Hailed as 'the most adventurous and cutting edge' festival of 2016, Moogfest returns with a commitment to futurist conversations and performances that wrestle with our historic moment, and reflect on the festival’s home in North Carolina.

In celebration of its 11th iteration, Moogfest will unveil its lineup over the next 11 weeks through their weekly “Future Thought Future Sound” email newsletter, inviting the Moogfest community to explore program themes like Transhumanism, Techno-shamanism and Protest.

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Radikal Technologies SAC 2.2

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This one made me to a double take. It is not a synth, but is indeed from the synth company Radikal Technologies, as you can see here. I thought it was worth capturing for the archives.  It's always interesting to see what other products interest boutique synth manufacturers.

The SAC 2.2 is a "Multi-platform Moving-fader USB / MIDI Control Surface

Full info:
Gain instant hands-on control of your audio software with the SAC-2.2 Software Assigned Controller!

There's no need to install or program this sleek control surface for interaction with your favorite music software. The SAC-2.2 connects to your computer via USB bus, and you instantly gain a new operational surface. Then, the SAC-2.2 lets you perform all your essential audio production operations - EQs, dynamic processing, effects, etc. There are plenty of motorized faders, rotary encoders and buttons. The rotary LEDs of the 12 encoders and 2x40 symbol displays further facilitate your music production. And the USB bus gives you an enormous advantage in speed of transmission compared with MIDI transfer of data. It's compatible with Pro Tools, Cubase, MOTU's Digital Performer, Logic, and many others!

One of the coolest new features of the SAC-2.2 is that you can control several different programs simultaneously and switch between them in real time. The SAC-2.2 will automatically update itself with the correct operating mode and parameter settings as you switch between programs! In addition, this feature is networkable, meaning it will allow you to control different programs on different computers on your network! Got a great Mac-based sequencer and an awesome PC-based sampler? No problem. One SAC-2.2 integrated into your network means you can control them both at the same time - without the need to re-configure and re-boot! Save time and money with the versatile Sac 2.2 control surface!

• 9 touch sensitive motorized faders

• 12 rotary encoders with 31 step LED displays

• 3 2x40 symbol displays

• 1 locator-Display

• 9 track select buttons

• 8 mute/solo switches

• 10 buttons for selection of mixer-parameters (pan, send/insert selector switch, send/insert 1-4, 4 EQ select buttons)

• 6 buttons for track-selection (audio, MIDI, input, instrument, bus, group)

• 4 buttons for track bank selection (1-8,9-16,17-24,25-32)

• 12 software navigation buttons, which can also be used for numeric input

• 5 channel-strip buttons • 5 transport-control buttons (play, record, stop, rewind and forward)

• 1 jog wheel

• 4 location markers

• 1 scrub-button

• 1 system button

• 1 shift button

• USB port with one input and a 4 way HUB for connection of additional USB devices

• MIDI port with MIDI-in, out, thru and power jack"

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