IDUM Firmware Update 3 - Split Mode, Improved Looper, and Much More!

video upload by Mystic Circuits

"This video covers the basics of the newest IDUM firmware as well as some news about IDUM restocks, the new hardware redesigns etc. If you have either a red or pink LED stay on while your IDUM boots up you have an old firmware version, you should definitely upgrade to the latest version!

Instructions on how to do the actual update can be found here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xqDko...

If you want to grab the files for the most recent IDUM firmware go here:

https://github.com/mysticcircuits/IDU...

This firmware implements a number of bug fixes and stability improvements but there are two new features that are the most noteworthy:

Split Mode - this option allows for the decision on whether to activate a modification to be done separately per channel. This means that rather than having a ratchet modification perform a ratcheting effect to all of the channels at once, each channel makes it's own decision about whether or not it will engage a ratchet whenever a clock is received. A nice bonus of doing things like this is that we can finally have different modes active on each channel. The active mode is sampled whenever a clock is received so if the mode is either being changed quickly or modulated and the length slider is above 1 then different channels will activate whatever mode is currently selected when the decision to start a modification is made.

Looper Improvements - the looper has gone through a number of changes but the most impactful one is that the trigger inputs are now recorded four times per clock instead of only once. This not only means that the looper can now differentiate triggers and gates but also it can record multiple lengths of triggers and also capture ratchets that are twice as fast as the clock fairly accurately. Captured ratchets will also be multiplied or divided along with the speed of the loop being changed by altering the param knob. On top of this, the looper now remembers the mode that was active before the looper was engaged so that the looper always starts in time with the input pattern. Finally the modification code has been changed so that the captured modifications now more consistently reflect their behavior during the loop recording and also can capture different parameters per channel when split mode is active.

Finally check out the "super secret options" page that has been added to make the secret options easier to find. It's full of different bits that can be easily modified to change the behavior of your IDUM.

IDUMs will be back in stock in the next few weeks!"

YAMAHA GENOS 2 - Behind The Scenes at SECRET LAUNCH EVENT

video upload by

"I was honoured to be a VIP guest at the SECRET LAUNCH EVENT of the new YAMAHA GENOS 2 WORKSTATION ARRANGER KEYBOARD during October 2023. Join me in Berlin for a recap and the behind the scenes story and footage. I was one of the first lucky people in the world to lay my hands on this new arranger keyoard. Plus an exciting visit to the exclusive Yamaha Synth Museum in Berlin.

Whilst we are here, we will also take a look at the remains of the Berlin Wall!

Many more demo, review and tutorial videos to come over the coming weeks when I receive my own GENOS2.

Library music by Jeremy Blake (Red Means Recording)."

Yamaha Genos2 on “MAKE AN IMPACT – together²” event – Woody

video upload by Yamaha Global



MORE WOODY PIANO SHACK:
► PATREON http://bit.ly/woody_patreon
► WEBSITE https://woodypianoshack.com

Artist Picks: Best Music Gear of 2023 Part 2

video upload by Perfect Circuit

Part 1 here

"2023 is soon drawing to a close—so, we're taking a look back at the year, and taking account of all of the weird and wonderful instruments that gave us some inspiration this year. Synthesizers, drum machines, and Eurorack modules to samplers and effects, this year had no shortage of inspiring instruments.

So, we reached out to some of our friends and content creators to fill us in on their year, asking one simple question: what was the coolest piece of gear you got this year? For some, that meant brand new releases, but for others, it meant sitting down and digging into classic instruments.

In this video, we hear from:
00:00 Red Means Recording on the Elektron Syntakt
01:07 Midlife Synthesist on the Akai MPC X SE
03:20 DivKid on the Intellijel Cascadia
06:30 Jorb on the Roland S1
09:13 Bo Beats on the Teenage Engineering OP-1 Field
12:45 Trovarsi on the Anti-Kulture Precision Disruptor

Read more about all of this gear on our blog, Signal: https://bit.ly/3MEhpfE"

Synthfest UK 23 New Videos

video uploads by sonicstate

Playlist:

1. Synthfest UK 23: MyVolts - Nifty USB Power Solutions

At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with Caroline from MyVolts, and they've added to their panoply of useful power solutions for musicians. MyVolts showcased their new product, the Alchemist power distribution hub, which harnesses the versatility of USB-C to deliver various voltages from 5V to 20V. This means you can power a range of equipment, from vintage synths to modern gear, with one device. They've also taken their USB power innovation to the next level with a step-up 12V power tip, allowing users to draw 18W from USB to power gear like the Electron Analog Four on the go. MyVolts aims to simplify power management for musicians, addressing issues like earthing and noise, and they're actively seeking input from the community to fine-tune their solutions.

In addition to the Alchemist power hub, MyVolts will be releasing their own power banks, USB-C power cables with wattage indicators, and a range of power tips compatible with various voltages. This expansion means users can power a wide range of devices efficiently and conveniently. These products are expected to be available around February or March. MyVolts encourages you to fill out their survey to help them better understand and solve the unique power challenges musicians face.

https://myvolts.co.uk/

2. Synthfest UK 23: Rides In The Storm - SED CSM Synth Voice

At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with Uwe from Rides In The Storm to get a glimpse of their upcoming modular synth voice module, the SED CSM. This module is a powerhouse of sound design possibilities, offering a wide range of features packed into a single unit. With two oscillator sections, three waveform options, pulse width modulation, and a wave folder, there's plenty of sonic flexibility on tap.

The SED CSM also includes a robust mixer section, a ring modulator, wave folder, noise source, and an external input, expanding its sound-shaping capabilities. Uwe demonstrated how the module can be used for lush soundscapes and dynamic modulation with its various features. SED CSM offers envelope generators with loopable modes and versatile LFOs and filter options.

SED CSM Price: around £390

3. Synthfest UK 23: Analogue Solutions - Ample Desktop Pin matrix

We returned to the Analogue Solutions booth to chat again with Tom who showed us the second synth he’s released this year, Ample. Ample is a 3 VCO synth which combines some of the greatest bits of other Analogue Solutions synths, including a patch pin matrix similar to the Vostok, a sequencer taken from the generator, an interval generator similar to that on the Fusebox, and a 24dB filter akin to that of the Pro One. It even has the same delay circuit from the new Maximus.

There are 3 types of pin for the pin matrix with resistances of 0 ohms on the black pin 10k ohms on the red one and blue giving a value of 100k, which allows for more flexibility in attenuating the signals you patch. Tom told us that Ample is particularly suited to percussion, with its snappy filter, and various clock sources available, and though Ample is in a desktop format, Tom has given us plenty of space between the controls so no accidental knob bumping can occur.

Available October 23

Ample Price: around £2000 plus vat

4. Synthfest UK 23: Expert Sleepers - Analogue Modules

At Synthfest UK 2023, we had the chance to chat with Os from Expert Sleepers, known for their versatile digital modules. However, Os has been exploring the analog side of modular synthesis and has introduced a range of eight analog modules.

Among the analog modules, Os showcased a squelchy filter, oscillators with unconventional sine wave cores, and an intriguing octave fuzz effect. He emphasized that these analog modules offer a different approach to sound generation and signal processing compared to their digital counterparts. Os also pointed out that once an analog module is designed and built, it's a finished product, offering a sense of completeness that's distinct from the continuous updates often associated with digital modules.

Expert Sleepers Analogue modules Prices: from £159

5. Synthfest UK 23: Yamaha - DM3 - Super Compact Digital Mixer

At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with Chris from Yamaha to take a look at their latest offering, the DM3 digital mixer. This compact 16-input mixer packs some impressive features into a small footprint, making it suitable for a variety of applications. With a focus on pro audio and audio versatility, the DM3 boasts brand-new microphone preamps inspired by Yamaha's high-end CL and QL series, ensuring top-notch audio quality. Operating at 96 kHz, the DM3 offers pristine audio resolution. We have to admit, we're all Gassing for this one...

The DM3 boasts a touchscreen interface, complemented by touch-and-turn knobs for tactile control. This innovative combination allows users to efficiently navigate and control the mixer's parameters. The DM3 can also serve as an audio interface, providing 18 in and 18 out over USB, making it an excellent choice for recording and streaming applications. With a compact and portable design, this mixer is versatile enough for live gigs, corporate events, podcasting, and studio work.

DM3 Standard Model Price: Around £1,500

DM3 Dante-Enabled Price: Around £2,000

6. Synthfest UK 23: Tone Science - Triple Cross - Chance Delay

At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with Ian Boddy from DIN Records, known for his prolific work in the electronic music scene. While DIN Records is celebrating its 25th anniversary next year, Ian has expanded his creative endeavors with the release of two modules under the sub-label Tone Science in collaboration with AJH Synth. The Triple Cross module offers versatile signal manipulation capabilities, enabling crossfading, morphing, panning, with non-synchronous LFOs and DC-coupled outputs. The Chance Delay module introduces a unique concept of probability-driven gate delay. Musicians can control the likelihood of triggers passing through, allowing for rhythmically intricate and ever-changing sequences. These modules are designed to enhance the performative aspect of modular synthesis, providing musicians with dynamic tools for evolving soundscapes and rhythmic complexity.

Triple Cross Price: £260

Chance Delay Price: £175

7. Synthfest UK 23: 1010 Music - Bluebox Eurorack Edition

At Synthfest UK 2023, we had the opportunity to chat with Steve from 1010 Music about their latest creation, the Bluebox Eurorack Edition. This module was born out of customer demand, as users of the original Blue Box desktop unit clamored for a Eurorack-compatible version. The Bluebox Eurorack Edition packs all the power and versatility of the desktop version but with a few key differences. It offers mono inputs and outputs that can be combined into stereo, six CV inputs for mapping to various parameters, and two dedicated USB-C ports—one for MIDI and the other for USB audio. This means you can connect your Blue Box to a Mac, PC, or iPad, send and receive audio tracks, and still record all 12 tracks, plus a master track and two effects sends, separately on a micro SD card. An upcoming firmware update will also bring stereo audio in both directions to the Blue Box Desktop Edition, offering even more flexibility in routing and recording. With its compact 30 HP size and thoughtful design, the Bluebox Eurorack Edition also offers a clock output bridging the gap between hardware and software seamlessly.

Bluebox Eurorack Edition Price: $699

8. Synthfest UK 23: Nonlinear Labs - C15 - Software Updates

At Synthfest UK 2023, we had a conversation with Tim from Nonlinear Labs, the creators of the highly expressive C15 synthesizer. Tim shared some exciting updates that have recently been implemented with the inclusion of LFOs via looping envelopes providing musicians with more sonic versatility. The C15's unique concept, based on a two-operator FM synthesis engine, remains intact, but these new LFO capabilities expand its sonic palette. Tim also showcased the expanded key tracking options, which can stretch pitches to create unique tonal textures. Furthermore, he highlighted the new twin-engine feature, which allows for cascading delays and creating captivating stereo soundscapes. Tim also hinted at future developments that owners of this expressive synthesizer can look forward to.

C15 Black Price: 4,300 Euros (incl. VAT)

C15 Cherry Wood Price: 4,750 Euros (incl. VAT)

9. Synthfest UK 23: Kenton - LNDX Midi Line Driver

At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with John from Kenton Electronics to check out their latest offering, the LNDX Line Driver, a handy solution for extending MIDI signals over long distances. Designed to address the challenges of maintaining stable MIDI connections in large venues and studios, the Line Driver utilizes Cat5 cables to transmit MIDI signals up to an impressive 500 meters. It's an ideal tool for live gigs in massive stadiums or situations where the control center is far from the performance area. The Line Driver features LEDs to monitor both the incoming and outgoing MIDI signals, providing essential feedback for troubleshooting and ensuring signal integrity. This straightforward and robust solution adds reliability to any MIDI setup, whether it's in the music industry, broadcasting, or even unconventional applications like flight simulators. With its opto-isolation and straightforward connectivity, the Line Driver is set to become an essential tool for professionals seeking rock-solid MIDI signal transmission over long distances.

LNDR pair Price: £127.92

10. Synthfest UK 23: Sweet Discrete - Synth Panel Restoration

At Synthfest UK 2023, we had a chat with Craig from Sweet Discrete, a company specializing in unique synth restoration and custom creations. Craig showcased their latest endeavor, which goes beyond their well-known synth overlays. Sweet Discrete has taken on the ambitious task of restoring classic synths like the Jupiter 8 to their former glory. These aren't just simple restorations; they're meticulous, artisanal processes, involving lead loading to remove rust and imperfections, followed by precise silkscreening. What's more, Sweet Discrete manufactures exact replica shells for various synth models, offering three versions for the Jupiter 8 alone. They've even delved into MIDI mods for the Jupiter 8, bringing modern convenience to these vintage gems.

Beyond their cosmetic work, Sweet Discrete is exploring the possibility of delving into electronics and design for synthesizers. With a keen focus on quality and precision, they're making a name for themselves in the world of synth restoration and custom solutions. To learn more about their offerings and explore the range of products, visit their website

See the SYNTHFEST UK label for more coverage of this year's event.

Circuit Tracks: 11 Short Beats and Song Ideas

video upload by Bleeding Solar Flare

"This is my 11 short beats and song ideas.
I made these with my favorite sound pack 'Red Means Recording Novation Circuit Tracks Mega Pack: Volume 1'.

I hope you will enjoy!

Thanks so much for watching! Have a great day!

皆さん、こんにちは！

この動画は、'Red Means Recording Novation Circuit Tracks Mega Pack: Volume 1'を使用して制作した短い曲のアイデアを１１曲分まとめたものになります。もし良かったら聴いてみてください。

いつもありがとうございます！

それでは、また！"

Non-Linear Memory Machine by Holocene Electronics

video upload by Stazma

"Today I'll be showing you the Non-Linear Memory Machine (NLMM for short), a stereo digital delay with pitch, freeze and granular functions. I had a great fun trying out this module, many thanks to @holocene_electronics for sending this to me to make this demo."

via Holocene Electronics

"The Non-Linear Memory Machine is an audio buffer device. Set to a short buffer length, the NLMM is capable of creating alien phaser sounds to reverb and delays. While in a longer buffer length Frippertronics / time lag accumulator style looping is available.


FUNCTIONS / CONTROLS

TIME/SCRUB

Controls the delay time of the signal. The delay time can span from a few milliseconds to up to 15 seconds, depending on the buffer length. Unlike analog delays like tape or BBD delays, when modulated the pitch of the signal does not drift. Instead, it compresses and expands time in interesting textures via a custom time-stretching algorithm. When activating Freeze via the freeze switch, this knob functions as the play head's position within the buffer.


SMEAR

Randomizes the Time/Scrub control, adding random jitters to the position of the playhead and diffuses the signal in a way that can be utilized as a pseudo reverb effect. (experiment with the Time/Scrub knob and Feedback knob to create glitchy reverbs.)


PITCH

Pitch shifts the signal +- 1 octave. This knob snaps to perfect 5ths and an octave but you can dial it in between intervals. Nice crunchy aliasing when pitch shifting is applied.


DRY/WET

Crossfades between the dry signal and processed wet signal.


FEEDBACK

Feedbacks the delayed signal back into the input. Set it up to 4’o’clock when in Medium or Long mode to experiment with TLA or Frippertronic style looping.


BUFFER RANGE

Switch between delay ranges according to the list below.


\SHORT – 20ms ~ 320ms

\\MEDIUM – 320ms ~ 1.6sec

\\\LONG – 1.45sec ~ 15sec


FREEZE

The Freeze switch acts like an infinite sustain pedal, but you can also scrub through the buffer with the time/scrub knob when activated. Red means recording, and unlit means the buffer is frozen / not recording. Great for practicing scales or droning away."

BASTL Made Him Do This

video upload by Red Means Recording

"I can't stop thinking about Bowser."

00:00 intro
02:03 delay panel walkthrough
07:30 delay for rhythmic interest
10:10 delay on percussion
13:02 delay as a voice
16:13 terrible lizard

Habanera by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license.
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/..."

Tempera: A New Granular Instrument

video upload by Red Means Recording

"This video is sponsored by the makers of Tempera: http://playtempera.com
Tempera is a new granular instrument by the makers of the Vector Synth (https://www.vectorsynth.com/). It features 8 sample slots, each represented by a verticle column, that can be played back polyphonically, 4 granular emitters, envelopes, lfos, a filter, and a reverb.

I've been alpha-testing this unit and have made some content for it. Check it out in person at Superboooth 2023."

How to Learn a Module ft. Knobula Chord Pilot

video upload by Red Means Recording

"The unit in this video was provided by Knobula.

Let's learn the Knobula Chord Pilot and make some music.

Join me on Patreon and get access to music, presets, samples, and a great community: http://bit.ly/rmrpatreon

Take a lesson with me: https://rmr.media/education

00:00 intro
01:26 first approach (no manual)
11:54 first jam
14:01 second approach (with manual)
22:02 final thoughts
23:46 second jam

Two Takes on the midicake ARP

Take a BITE of the midicake ARP video upload by Starsky Carr

"Generative and evolving or well controlled and precise - it's your choice. A clever concept - tracks are built with lots of lines playing a variation on the same chord.. .arps, bass, pads.. This takes that idea and gives you plenty of scope for experimentation. Keep it tightly controlled for Tracey arp interactions, or let it loose to discover ever evolving pattens.

0:00 Fancy some cake?
0:51 Demo #1 Hands in The Air
1:35 The Ingredients
2:23 Ambient Track Breakdown
2:56 Arp Pad & Chord Mode
3:39 Semi Random Patterns
5:22 Demo #2 Ambient & Glitchy
5:40 Main Parameters
7:37 Rhythm and Groove
8:34 FX and Modulation
9:35 Playing and tweaking it live
10:31 The knobs at the top are for Macros
11:58 Chaining Bars
13:33 Its a sort of sequencer
15:50 Use Bounce PROPERLY!!
17:17 All-in-all? thoughts
19:11 More of that Ambient track again
21:17 Ibiza & Miami need some cake

WTF is an Arpeggio?

video upload by Red Means Recording

00:00 intro
00:41 what's an arpeggio
03:46 ableton arpeggiator
06:45 xfer cthulhu
09:18 midicake arp main functions
16:44 midicake pad mode
17:47 midicake chord mode
18:34 bass
20:26 final thoughts
21:05 outro jam

Erica Synths Perkons: Love and Thunder

video upload by Red Means Recording

00:00 intro
01:25 overview
02:37 demos 01
04:52 walkthrough
18:07 demos 02
18:44 perkons q and a
23:54 final thoughts

"Join me on Patreon and get access to music, presets, samples, and a great community: http://bit.ly/rmrpatreon

Take a lesson with me: https://rmr.media/education"

ZAPS Makes Me Feel Funny Inside

video upload by Red Means Recording

"Winter Plankton Zaps is a percussion-line synth eurorack voice designed for creating organic sequences that can mutate over time.

The unit in this video was provided by Winter Modular.

00:00 intro to zaps
02:29 zaps walkthrough
08:19 zaps as a melodic voice
10:36 bank exploration and jam

Join me on Patreon and get access to music, presets, samples, and a great community: http://bit.ly/rmrpatreon

Take a lesson with me: https://rmr.media/education"

I'm a Minifreak and So Can You

video upload by Red Means Recording

"I made factory presets for the Arturia Minifreak. Let's check them out and find out why I think this synthesizer is so special.

Join me on Patreon and get access to music, presets, samples, and a great community: http://bit.ly/rmrpatreon

Take a lesson with me: https://rmr.media/education"

The Long Call (ZOIA Ambient)

video upload by Red Means Recording Ambient

"A self-playing ZOIA patch by user wz on Patchstorage. Get it here: https://patchstorage.com/the-long-earth/ I've added additional audio elements and effects. Check out the rest of wz's cool stuff here: https://patchstorage.com/author/wz/"

The Long Earth (ZOIA Ambient )

video upload by Red Means Recording Ambient

"A self-playing ZOIA patch by user wz on Patchstorage. Get it here: https://patchstorage.com/the-long-earth/ I've added additional audio elements and effects. Check out the rest of wz's cool stuff here: https://patchstorage.com/author/wz/"

Polyend Play: A Thorough Look

video upload by Red Means Recording

"A thorough look at the Polyend Play algorithmic/generative sample-based groove box and performance sequencer."

00:00 intro
00:53 what is the play
01:08 importing samples
03:00 sequencer basics
04:39 fill: random and euclidian
05:35 fill: beats
07:41 sound parameters
09:59 randomize and chance
12:43 entering notes
14:31 delay and reverb
17:34 reversing sounds and parameter locks
18:19 chance for generative pitch
19:22 adding chord sounds
20:19 adding percussion and folder management
21:22 play modes
23:26 sound presets and limiter
25:40 saving and naming projects
26:04 patterns and variations
27:26 session save and recall for performance
28:42 performance mode
31:10 a note on loading and saving
31:45 final thoughts

PPG Dreams: The Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave

video upload by Red Means Recording

"What's old is new again, and better. A modern PPG Wave is here, the Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave. Let me show it to you.
https://www.groovesynthesis.com/
For pre-orders, reach out to: sales@groovesynthesis.com

00:00 intro
02:11 the ppg wave history
09:55 synth specs and demos
13:36 the filters
20:15 wavetable envelope demos
23:27 multipart performance
25:40 effects
30:50 feature review
33:46 making custom wavetables
37:20 final thoughts"

Klevgrand Tomofon Preset Playthrough

video upload by Red Means Recording

"Tomofon converts audio files into a large set of oscillating waves, which then are mapped into pitch zones where each wave represents one layer (a bit similar to how a sampler structures different velocity zones)."

You can find additional posts featuring Tomofon here.

Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave: Favorite Factory Presets

video upload by Red Means Recording

"First step in getting to know a new synthesizer: find and play your favorite factory presets. The Groove Synthesis 3rd Wave is the modern spiritual successor to the classic wavetable synthesizers of old, like the Waldorf and PPG Wave.
https://www.groovesynthesis.com/"

The Make Noise XPO: A Musical Exploration

video upload by Red Means Recording

"Let's explore the Make Noise XPO stereo oscillator and then improvise some music with it and friends.

00:00 panel and feature walkthrough
02:15 sync
02:55 fm
04:36 adding a filter
05:32 bringing in a second output
06:58 some thoughts
07:52 bringing in some drums
08:49 performance: how to make friends
14:00 performance: i'll see you again when I'm dead"