"I present the LOFI uTape Scrubber….. based around modified dictaphone including the same replay and AC record circuits used in the upcoming 1U Taperack system!
The uTape scrubber module is easy to set up, use and maintain so requires no previous experience with tape or tape loops unlike the 1U taperack system which will be best suited to people with experience working with tape.
The Bi-directonal motor driver circuit I have designed is a huge improvement over the standard dictaphone motor driver circuit making it possible to scrub the tape back and forth with a single control knob or a Biploar CV signal.
The Pitch knob is used for fine tune control of tape speed, the range of the speed will depend upon the direction/range control.
The direction / range control knob can be used to choose the direction of the tape movement and the range of the overall pitch.
The Pitch CV control knob is an attenuator for the CV input.
The CV input works well with +/- 5V CV signals but for extreme speeds and scrubbing use +/- 10V.
1. Bristronica 24: MyVolts The Silent Alchemist Nears Shipping
We caught up with Caroline who gave us the latest update to the *Silent Alchemist*, a versatile power hub designed for musicians. Featuring five isolated USB-C outputs and a high-wattage sixth output capable of delivering 100 watts, the device can power a Mac with the remaining outputs providing 20 watts each. Its independent circuits ensure noise-free operation, catering to a variety of devices including the Dreadbox module and Sysmo slope generator.
The Silent Alchemist uses innovative step-up power tips to convert USB-C input to the correct voltage for various devices. There's also new feature: an uninterruptible power supply allowing seamless transition between wall and power bank sources. Also introduced were updated cables, such as silver candy cords and floating ring TRS to TS cables, expanding connection flexibility. The Silent Alchemist is expected to be available in December with a competitive pricing strategy.
At Bristronica 2024, we caught up with the creator of the *ML2M*, who introduced us to the latest version. The ML2M is a compact Eurorack module with Wi-Fi capabilities, allowing seamless synchronization with Ableton Live, Bitwig Studio, and iOS music apps using Ableton Link without the need for cables. It either connects to an existing network or creates its own, ensuring robust sync even in environments with unreliable Wi-Fi. The module, which retains its 2HP size, now features MIDI integration through TRS jacks. Users can access a web interface to configure each output for different clock divisions and reset triggers, making setup straightforward and flexible.
Alongside the ML2M, there's also the Missing Link Junior. This desktop version offers the same functionality but in a box format, complete with MIDI and CV clock outputs. Both products are now accessible, with a starting price of $250.
At Machina Bristronica 2024, we caught up with Arran from @archaea_modular_synthesis who presented the *Exchange Module*. This programmable patcher, a year in the making, evolved from its early prototype stage to a fully functional module. Arran explained how the Exchange can route synth voices via a beam controller and three exchange modules installed within the skiff, allowing for versatile patching. Operating like a matrix patchbay, it enables users to select inputs and outputs with the push of a button, create presets, and chain multiple modules for synchronized patching.
Communication between the modules occurs over the Eurorack power bus as well as over MIDI via the USB-C connection. The Exchange maintains analog integrity, ensuring there’s no conversion latency. The forthcoming release expected in late November 2024, includes a USB-driven editor for enhanced control capabilities.
"Discover the wide range of sounds in Komplete 15 with producer Tonnerre as he plays through different presets he used to build tracks with the Select – Electronic, Standard, Ultimate, and Collector's Edition bundles."
"Dive into the sounds of Komplete 15 with @RedMeansRecording as he breaks down an electronic track he built using instruments, effects, and sounds from the latest bundles.
Regarding the wobbly knob, that looks defective to me. I have SN 01091 and the knobs are solid. His is SN 3925. If you have an OB-6 leave a comment with your SN# and whether your knobs are solid or wobbly. If you pick up a new one just check the knobs out of the box, but obviously don't force them. That said, this is an interesting comparison between the two synths.
0:00 opening and wobbly knobs
5:52 the comparison
7:33 wave shapes on both
14:00 filters
17:00 lets make patches on both synths
37:00 closing thoughts
She's a 16 track polyphonic midi sequencer and recorder / song arranger that can record pitch bend, MIDI CCs, and aftertouch. She's got 128 songs, 16 blocks per song, and 16 tracks per block.
Each block can be up to 2048 steps, and each track can be up to 2048 steps. Blocks automatically sequence at the end of the previous block, and you can jump freely between any blocks by tapping them in the scroll menu. Each block can have its own set of 48 program change messages to trigger new programs in sync with the block changes. You can change songs with no load times and no hitch. She's got 30 NeoPixel MX switches that can be freely customized or changed, 8 push-switch rotaries, a 5" touch AMOLED screen, and the software is going to be fully open source from day 1. The unit seen here is the first tactile prototype, but I've started production run for the first batch and I'm getting ready to launch it next month.
It's been a year of hard work and this is the first tune I've actually gotten to make, I'm excited to be able to make music again and not have to focus so much on the software and hardware side of things. I'm a little bit out of practice, it's hardly a perfect performance, but it's always fun! Thanks for listening in and checking it out :)
Here's unit #002, with red anodized aluminum, black knobs, pudding keycaps, and smokey black sequencer key caps. All of this is fully customizable to taste, and each unit will be built and tested personally by hand."
Midina is an open-source sequencer born from a passion for electronic music and technology, designed to be powerful and accessible.
Midina stands out with its ability to record pitch bends, aftertouch, and MIDI CCs, providing you with a versatile and expressive sequencer. There are easy ways to trigger program changes automatically or manually. The linear sequencer within each Song provides a clear Block Order, designed to help you make music that moves. It supports extended track and block lengths, enabling different creative methods of song building to be explored. Additionally, for those who enjoy a traditional approach, Midina offers robust step sequencer options that will only get better with time.
One of the core philosophies behind Midina is community engagement, iterative software development, and the support of customization through community contributions to both software and hardware. I believe that anybody who wants to contribute should be welcome to contribute. By opening the code, I hope to see others tailor Midina to their personal needs, enhancing their creative process and the project offerings along the way.
Midina is built on the versatile Raspberry Pi platform, making it an accessible and affordable choice. Its open-source nature means that you have the freedom to explore, modify, and expand its capabilities.
Midina is still young, but it is a project I am committed to developing and improving for the long haul. I set out to build a sequencer which fits my own production needs in a live environment, and I am happy with what it currently offers.. At the same time, I know it can do much more over time, and I am excited to iterate and improve as the days go on.
Thank you for exploring Midina. I look forward to hearing the music you create with it.
"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:
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!"
"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
"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
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.
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.
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.
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
"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."
"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."
"The Univer Iter is a MIDI to CV converter by Noise Engineering. It lets you configure up to 8 outputs per module to turn a huge number of MIDI signals into a huge number of voltage signals. Make sense? Don't worry, it will soon. Sponsored by @NoiseEngineering"
00:00 intro to univer inter
01:45 sequencing modular with push (basic)
06:08 one-note multitimbral modular with ableton
09:35 control change fun with akemis castle
11:40 digitakt sequencing and modulating modular
15:00 m8 sequencing and modulating modular
18:19 WIND CONTROLLER
21:46 playing the entire rack with erae touch
"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."
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
