The Amazing NINA synth - Must be heard to be believed!

video upload by School of Synthesis

"Watch Tristan from School of Synthesis make a track using only the incredible Nina Synth in morph mode! It’s exciting to see some truly compelling synthesis innovation coming out of School of Synthesis' home town Melbourne Australia. In this video, Tristan explores the expressive sounds of the Melbourne Instruments NINA synth with its morphing functionality and hybrid analog/digital oscillator section. It’s also extremely helpful from an educational / sound design perspective to see exactly how each parameter is changing as a sound morphs from one layer to another thanks to NINA’s trademark motorised knobs.

Check out the Nina here: https://www.melbourneinstruments.com

0:00 Intro
0:53 Making a Track on the Nina with Presets and the Morph Feature
4:03 Exploring the Morph Feature"

Synthesis Tutorial | Making A Synth Lead Sequence

video upload by School of Synthesis

https://www.melbourneinstruments.com/

"In this video Davide demonstrates how to make a synth sequence / acid riff using a step sequencer on the Melbourne Instruments Nina Synth and reproduces the steps using a digital synthesiser to create the classic triplet feel synth riff. Here he shows how to assign a modulation envelope to the cut off filter to create variation in a riff and how to perform it live. This video also demonstrates how to fit it into a track, in this case he Is programming the riff in C Minor.

This video is taken from the up and coming Sound Design course from the School of Synthesis, a follow up to the Scaler 2 Course, which will be available Q4 2023.

0:00 Intro
1:14 Making A Lead Sound on Melbourne Instruments Nina Analogue Synth
2:53 Programming A Sequence
4:13 Assigning A Modulation Envelope to the Cutoff Filter
5:55 Adding A Delay
7:10 Adding Oscillators and Shaping the Sound
10:25 Programming a Digital Synth to make a Lead Riff
11:53 Writing the Notes
13:50 Assigning A Modulation Envelope to the Cutoff Filter in Carbon Electra
15:30 Adding Variation and Performing Live"

Tunegirl - live at SUPERBOOTH23

video upload by Superbooth Berlin

"Tunegirl's musical journey began in the 70s as a devoted fan of Hard Rock icons like Status Quo and AC/DC. Starting as a guitarist in a school band, she rocked out to her idols' tunes, playing by ear and gaining local recognition.

In the 80s, funk and soul captivated her, leading her to explore DJing in local discos and immersing herself in the grooves of the era. It was during this time that she first encountered synthesizers, drawn in by the sounds of Depeche Mode and Human League.

The 90s brought a love for techno, inspired by artists like Jeff Mills and Richie Hawtin. Despite dabbling in software production, she longed for the tactile experience of hardware instruments.

Rediscovering her passion in 2009, she embraced software production but missed the spontaneity of jam sessions. Returning to hardware, she explored Elektrons, Volcas, and Roland Airas, yet still felt something was missing.

A turning point came when she discovered modular synthesis through a YouTube video. Intrigued, she embarked on a journey of discovery, diving into Eurorack with determination.

Despite the challenges, her dedication paid off, and she found her ideal instrument in the Eurorack system, unlocking a newfound freedom of expression and creativity. Tunegirl's journey is a testament to the transformative power of music and the endless possibilities of artistic exploration.

https://www.instagram.com/the_tunegir..."

2MGT METAMUSIC GENERATIVE TOOLS

This one was sent in via Brian Comnes who had the following to say (links will take you to more info):

"Here's some stocking stuffers for Christmas.

Boris Kovalev has been making ambient sound tools for over a decade. Back in 2011 I was messing with his AMBITRON and PSYBOX synths and having a lot of fun. see here

Well lately by chance I came across his latest work at 2MGT and I have to say, these are some nice tools for those of us interested in the ambient side of synthesis. Yes they are software, no real knobs to twist but they do sound really nice. Best part they are donation/freeware. I'd say they are as nice as anything Giorgio SanCristoforo is doing and getting $20 a pop for.

The UIs do take a little bit of initial head scratching to decipher and attain competence, but they offer nice eye candy to work with compared to say the current sparse dials only ones popular today.

=========================

EVOX
EVOX is an Experimental Soundscape Synthesizer (standalone tool application for Windows) that employs two separate and programmable layers each with extensive FX and Modulation Matrix modules

=========================

Nasca
Nasca is an standalone tool application for Windows that employs Wavetable / Granular / Sample-based synthesis in two separate and programmable layers each with extensive FX, Modulation Matrix, Chord Sequencer and two Arpeggiators modules which provide the user with maximum control over sound creation.

With the built-in 16steps Chord Sequencer and two Arpeggiators, long evolving ambient and atmospheric sounds can be created. Also, the Sequencer and Arpeggiators allows for more rhythmic based compositions or patches as well. It is possible to create an entire composition just by creating many layers.

=========================


Modularis / Analog Style Sequencing Tool / is the next instrument in the 2MGT suite of experimental synthesizers (standalone tool application for Windows).
No installation is necessary, and it works without problems in Windows XP...11.
Modularis is Free/Donate (the Free version has some limitations).
Dual 16 step sequencer with a built in synths that also has the ability to control other softsynths via it's MIDI out (will need a virtual MIDI cable).
Dual Layer Random Seed Pad Arpeggiator
Modularis has an extensive range of sound creation possibilities especially for Ambient, Berlin School as well as others genre of electronic music.
Modularis has a built-in Recording module.

=========================

Elumia / Sample Manipulation Tool / is the next instrument in the 2MGT suite of experimental synthesizers.
Elumia is a standalone tool application for Windows. No installation is necessary. Elumia is Free/Donate.
A free sample manipulation synthesizer housed in a simple and intuitive interface, Elumia is based on a granular synthesis method specially designed for creating and experimenting with ambient soundscapes and noise backgrounds with rhythmic elements."

Roland JD 800/990 - "Explorations" Soundset 64 Presets

video upload by LFOstore

"We are continuing our JD Synth Family Series!

BUY: https://lfo.sellfy.store/p/roland-jd-...

Unique 'Explorations' soundset made by expert of JD synth series -
Saga Musix - https://sagamusix.de/

Soundset compatible with JD-800, JD-990, JD-800 VST, Zenology and the JD-08!

Words from Author:

Thank you for purchasing this sound set! With these sounds, I aim to explore all the many different faces of the JD-800,
so you will find a diverse set of sounds, some more old-school, some with a more modern touch, some pads, some leads,
some sound effects - it's all there and I hope you enjoy using it as much as I enjoyed creating it.

64 amazing presets are waiting for you and ready to fill your compositions with new colors and inspire creativity.

From Ambient & Electronica to SynthWave & SynthPop with benefits of JD synthesis.

Enjoy and may the music come with you!"

New Batch of Synthfest UK 23 Videos

video uploads by sonicstate

Playlist: (you can use the player controls to skip around)

1. Synthfest UK 23: Sequential - Trigon 6 Desktop

At SynthFest UK 2023, we had the opportunity to chat with Chris from Sequential, a part of the Focusrite group. Chris introduced us to the Trigon 6 Desktop, the latest addition to Sequential's synthesizer lineup. This compact desktop version of the Trigon 6 packs a powerful punch, offering three oscillators and a distinctive Dave Smith ladder filter. Designed for those seeking a space-saving solution without compromising on sound quality, the Trigon 6 Desktop retains all the features of its larger sibling, including patch recall, a versatile effects section with various modulation possibilities, and the distinctive feedback control that allows you to sculpt sub-harmonic richness.

Trigon 6 Desktop Price: $2,499

https://www.sequential.com/

2. Synthfest UK 2023: Calc And the Prophet X

At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with Calc from Sequential, and he gave us the lowdown on the Prophet X. Now, you might be thinking, Prophet X? Haven't we seen that before? Well, you're right, but this hybrid instrument has been quietly making waves in the music world. It combines digital and analog elements, with digital oscillators and a unique twist in the form of multi-sample-based instruments. Yes, you heard that right, it's not just your run-of-the-mill synth; it's a full-on sampler too, boasting an impressive 50 gigabytes of memory for your custom samples. You can treat it like a rompler, a sample player, or even use those samples as oscillators, creating a whole new realm of sonic possibilities.

Plus, it's packed with stereo goodness, allowing you to explore a wide soundstage with ease. It's not your typical synth, and that's what makes its a favourute of Calc's

Looking for some more info on the Prophet X? Check out Sequential's official page: www.sequential.com/prophet-x/

CLICK FOR MORE »

Morton Subotnick & Steve Horelick @ Brooklyn Synth & Pedal Expo (October 21-22)

Details follow:

"The Brooklyn Synth & Pedal Expo, a free for all interactive display of synthesizers and pedals of all kinds, will return to Brooklyn on the weekend of October 21st and 22nd in a new, larger venue in Greenpoint.

Hosted in a 6k sq ft warehouse in the heart of one of Brooklyn’s most musical neighborhoods located between Williamsburg and Queens, this year's event is expected to be attended by around 2k visitors. Pictures from previous editions can be found here [you can find some video coverage in previous posts here].

Morton Subotnick and Steve Horelick VIP Guest Speakers
The organizers are excited to announce the involvement in this year's expo of two legendary NY synthesists who will be hosting talks and a performance on Sunday 22 in the 70-seat theater embedded in the venue

"Buchla Focus" on Sunday October 22
The two presentations will be part of a 3 hour block from 12pm to 3pm on Sunday 10/22 dedicated to Buchla, which will also feature a Music Easel product presentation and an industry panel featuring the company owner Eric Fox among others.

The full program of talks and workshops can be found here.

Morton Subotnick, one of the pioneers in the development of electronic music and multi-media performance, is best known for his 1967 composition Silver Apples of the Moon, the first electronic work commissioned by a record company, and for his creative output linked to Buchla synths. He will host a talk about synthesis on Sunday October 22 in the early afternoon (schedule to be released soon). He will be the event's keynote speaker.

Steve Horellick is a tireless educator and acclaimed soundtrack composer (he wrote the Butterfly in the Sky song from PBS's Reading Rainbow). He is also known for his immersive, textural surround performances. At the Brooklyn event, he will perform using a hybrid setup of synth and pedals in surround sound. Steve will be hosting a talk/performance involving several synths (including Buchla) and some guitar pedals.

Eurorack Classes and GSG.live workshops
The schedule of the presentations will be also integrated by two Eurorack classes hosted by Ben Atchouel of the New York Modular Society and two workshops about online performances curated by the team at GSG.live.

Confirmed Vendors
Visitors will find a varied mix of companies, over 70, with almost all the heavyweight synth and pedal brands and several boutique builders, and also a selection of Eurorack and many pedal builders. Full list below.

Please find attached the event's flier.

This is a free event, anybody can RSVP here.

LIST OF PARTICIPATING MANUFACTURERS:

CLICK FOR MORE »

Synclavier Under the Hood Tour

video upload by Anthony Marinelli Music

"We discuss the basic hardware and software components, how to boot up the system with a 5.25" floppy disk and some special features that were later added. Remember this is an early computer and it's physically a lot bigger than what you would expect to see today. You'll see how it's built and connected together by ribbon cables with big connectors. Also the available memory was a lot less than what we have come to expect today. The early floppy disks held no more 128 kilobytes of data and the early internal 5 megabyte hard drive sold for $20,000. Here is a list of the features in this system:

-additive synthesis
-FM synthesis with 32 voices
-5 MB Hard Drives
-monophonic sampling
-8 channels of MIDI
-filter switches
-SMPTE sync code
-2 floppy disk drives

Anthony's musical touch as both composer and performer is connected with some of the most influential creative minds over the last 40 years. He’s composed and conducted original orchestral scores for over 80 feature films including Young Guns, Internal Affairs, The Man From Elysian Fields, 15 Minutes and Planes, Trains & Automobiles, been commissioned by the Los Angeles Philharmonic for his symphonic work "In the Family Way", written over one thousand TV commercials in a myriad of musical styles, co-founded Levels Audio Post (LA's premiere post production facility) and performed and arranged on big-box-office films and influential hit records such as Michael Jackson's Thriller.

His extensive work as a young arranger, orchestrator and performer for Quincy Jones, Jack Nitzsche, Lamont Dozier, Arthur Rubenstein and Giorgio Moroder was vital in launching his own career. His early years pioneering modular analog synthesizers along with his wide-ranging music scholarship positioned Anthony at the center of the music technology revolution. He attended the University of Southern California School of Music as a piano and composition major.

Website: www.anthonymarinelli.com"

Ambient eurorack modular soundscape inspired by the original Blade Runner film

video upload by Piotr Garbaczonek

"Thanks for watching!
"Take a look at my latest Eurorack modular synth patch! After a long day of school or work, it's always great to unwind with some patching. I spent over an hour creating a patch that features a stereo-brassy synth sound reminiscent of the iconic Yamaha CS-80. To achieve this, I used my Instruō Cruïnn module, expertly modulated by the øchd module. The audio signal is routed into the Qu-Bit Electronix Tone, a powerful quad filter with two Low Pass channels, each modulated by varying øchd's.

The output from these filter channels is then thoroughly managed by the Make Noise X-Pan module, which features modulated X-Fade and Pan parameters that are expertly controlled by two slow LFOs on separate øchd modules. The final signal passes through the Qu-Bit Aurora, which adds a touch of blur and mix to the sound before being routed to the VCA for additional volume control. Finally, the audio exits through the Expert Sleepers ES-9.

This patch is just one example of the endless possibilities of eurorack modular synthesis. Whether you're an experienced musician or just getting started, eurorack modules like these offer a world of sonic exploration and experimentation. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this immersive audio experience.

Here are some links of mine:
https://linktr.ee/pgarbaczonek

Go become my Patreon here:
https://www.patreon.com/pgarbaczonek?...

Perks of being a member include Patch from scratch videos, behind-the-scenes, HD pictures of gear and such, unreleased music, sample packs, and many more :)"

EML Electrocomp 500

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this auction

"Original vintage 70’s EML Electrocomp 500 analog synthesizer in excellent playing condition!

This fine example has just been fully serviced, recapped, calibrated, and is ready for another 50 years of weirdness!

For the uninitiated, these old EML machines are beasts! They were designed for possibilities, rather than performance, and can get really, REALLY far out in terms of sound creation, and experimentation. Sure, you can make leads and basses, and classic Moog/ arp sounds, but you can also go deeeeep. This one was actually used in a high school science lab to teach electronics and synthesis, and still has the school name, and serial inscribed on the walnut side panel!

Super rare, super cool. Enjoy!!!!"

CLICK FOR MORE »

WHISTLE 2 by BABUMAS DEVICES - BANDED WAVEGUIDE PHYSICAL MODELING SYNTH

video upload by Babumas Magic School Bus



via Isotonik Studios

"Whistle 2 is a physical modelling synthesizer with a banded waveguide as a resonator, disturbed with a granulated noise exciter source.

Banded waveguide synthesis is a physical modeling synthesis method that can be used to model elastic solids, like a vibraphone or a marimba. The synthesis method propagates exciter disturbances across tuned frequency bands. In whistle the amplitude and the partials of these frequency bands can be dialed in and automated.

The exciter of Whistle uses a granular engine to process the noise source. This design creates a uniquely unpredictable texture, with any tonal elements in the exciter source interacting with the resonator to create random harmonic content."

https://isotonikstudios.com/product/whistle-2-by-babumas-devices/

Vintage 1986 Amsco Publications - Synthesizer Basics by Dean Friedman Synth Book w/ Flexi Disc

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.

via this auction

Dean Friedman is the man behind the New York School of Synthesis as seen in previous posts here.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Herzlich Labs OMEN / DUAL PASSIVE RESONANT LPG with BITE / quick playthrough

video upload by BRiES

"This is a short video demonstrating the basic sound and functionality of OMEN. There's two channels of LPG goodness which both sound really different, and you can further shape the sound with the on board switches and knobs. It's possible to use the channels seperately (for different sound sources) or to use the two channels of OMEN linked with just one signal going into the first input. You'll hear that this sounds really wonderful!

You can download the user guide poster I made for OMEN here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/11Opq...

Herzlich Labs hand-builds a variety of modules, but one of the things that they're extra proud of is the MMI. This module is a MAN-MACHINE-INTERFACE that lets you modulate parameters around your rack by touching the different capacative plates on the frontpanel. If you're interested in something like that you should definitely check out their Etsy or Reverb webshops (links below). If you have any questions about the Herzlich Lab modules, send LB a direct message, he's usually really quick to respond.

Herzlich Labs on Reverb: https://reverb.com/shop/herzlichlabs
Herzlich Labs on Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/shop/HerzlichLabs

DISCLAIMER: LB from Herzlich Labs sent me this unit to explore and demonstrate. I think it's interesting to shine a light on some makers that are not as well known as the big names in the field, as sometimes they make really great designs and usually these modules are relatively affordable. I hope that by watching the video you can figure out if OMEN is right for you or not."

"The Omen is a dual LPG with a bit more than you might be used to. Like you, I once was lost in the world of low pass gates, seeking something more, something bigger and somehow juicier. The inspiration came to me as I was reading a particularly heavy book on passive filters, and I realized it was possible to make far more interesting LPG designs than the standard we've become so accustomed to.

In a convergence of old-school LPG design and more modern components, the Omen boasts two -6dB resonant filters, custom built vactrols, built in CV attenuation and no less than three cutoff modes per filter. Filter 1 is soft and light, imparting a gentle, naturally gated touch of filtering on your sound, while Filter 2 is darker and more resonant, and can turn downright growly and distorted when left wide open.

Designed to give you as many creative options as possible, the Omen has the unique ability to function as either two discrete LPG, or as one 4-pole resonant LPG. When plugging a signal in to Input 1, and with no signal plugged into Input 2, the output will be present at both Output 1 and Output 2, with Output 2 producing the signal as it passes through both filters. Tweaking both filters independently will generate a wide array of soft and sometimes harsh tones, ranging from Buchla bongos to early synthesis brass and organ sounds. There is much to love here.

CV is similarly handled, by plugging in only one CV source, it will act on both channels - this is useful for creating musically similar outputs as well as when using the dual filter operation. However, the dual filter mode greatly benefits from having two CV inputs: use an envelope in CV1 to act as a VCA, and an LFO in CV2 to create tremolo, for instance.

Using custom designed, hand built vactrols, care has been taken to mitigate the less desirable aspects of passive LPGs - in most modules, the user can expect zero bleed through on the LPG channels, and signal attenuation is minimal even with the 4-pole filter settings engaged. Of course, many of the natural features of vactrols remain, such as subtle memory effect when engaging the vactrol for long periods.

Finally, you receive maximum blinkenlights as LED's on the front panel simulate the action of the vactrols, so you'll always know what's going on under the hood. No collection of fancy LPG's is complete without the Omen."

Physical Synthesis Cicada Acoustic Vibration Synthesizer & Nymph Eurorack Module Update

video upload by Physical Synthesis



You might remember the Physical Synthesis Cicada - Acoustic Vibration Synthesizer posted back in April of 2021 - you'll find a playlist of demos there. The initial run was sold out. They are now teaming with USA-based distributor Electro Distro on a new run of Cicadas as well as a Nymph eurorack module.

The press release follows:

NEW YORK, NY, USA: having sold out of its initial production run, unique products-producing hardware startup Physical Synthesis is proud to announce that it is working with San Clemente, CA, USA-based distributor Electro Distro’s growing global network of dealers (https://www.electro-distro.com/dealers) to bring its game-changing Cicada — an ‘acoustic synthesizer’ that transforms electronic signals into physical vibrations that can be fully manipulated before being reconverted back into a new, never-heard-before electronic sound — to a wider audience in advance of Nymph, its upcoming Eurorack module…

It is fair to say that every once in a while, a moment comes along whereby human interaction with sound changes completely. Cicada is effectively one of those moments — one of those new instruments that moves the needle in music technology. Indeed, it is pioneered by unique products-producing hardware startup Physical Synthesis as an ‘acoustic synthesizer’ that transforms electronic signals into physical vibrations that can be fully manipulated before being reconverted back into a new, never-heard-before electronic sound. Says company founder Spencer Topel: “Cicada was the first step in introducing physical synthesis methods to the synth community; it is an award-winning interface that really lets musicians explore microscopic sounds with precise control.” Clearly, Cicada made musical waves when winning the Judge’s Special Award at the Guthman Musical Instrument Competition 2022, hosted by Georgia Tech School of Music — one of the few schools in North America that offers Music Technology as a major in undergraduate, graduate, and Ph.D levels of study — as an annual event dedicated to identifying the newest and greatest ideas in music.

Musical waves notwithstanding, ‘noise' is a subjective term; while electromechanical devices like speakers or headphones try to minimise the distortion inevitably introduced in physical systems, Cicada is designed to precisely exploit these distortion products as the basis of a new kind of synthesis. Cicada converts voltages to vibrations in a mechanical oscillator to create intermodulation — the addition of frequency content in a nonlinear system — in place of typical analogue or digital oscillators. By bringing the signal chain into a physical space, Cicada allows users to shape such content with natural, tactile gestures that truly transcend twiddling with a knob or pushing a slider. “As a violinist and composer, my experience of creating sound is highly physical,” proclaims Spencer Topel, adding: “With Cicada, I wanted to make an instrument that connects these elements, allowing musicians to produce complex, compelling sounds, but through tactile interaction.”

Insofar as actually doing what it does, Cicada receives two Eurorack-level signals that drive oscillation in a cantilevered Bridge positioned atop a Soundboard at an adjustable height. Digging deeper, distortion caused by the Bridge-Soundboard interaction adds frequency content to the input, determined by the specific qualities of the system. Self-explanatory Polycarbonate Soundboard, Foam Soundboard — made of EVA (Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate) foam, and Wood Soundboard — made of Birdseye maple — options each provide a range of resonating/filtering properties that combine uniquely with the likes of the Coral Wing Bridge — tip made of solid oak (resulting in a bright, clear tone), Coral Dual Tip Wing Bridge — tip made of premium rubber (allowing for a hard, precise attack with a balanced low-end), and Grey Wing Bridge — tip made of soft neoprene foam (resulting in a mellow, balanced acoustic effect); each pairing opens up a portal to a distinct sonic universe.

Users can dynamically change the system (and, therefore, how it is transforming signals) by adjusting the Bridge height, changing the region and degree of contact between Bridge and Soundboard, or applying pressure to either — effecting real-time, tactile timbral control, in other words. With that being said, premium vibration damping materials, such as Delrin, and custom circuitry minimise unwanted noise, allowing the intermodulation products to shine, while the output, captured by a pickup microphone positioned beneath the Soundboard, can be monitored directly, processed modularly, or recorded into a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation).

With behaviours akin to those exhibited by a traditional acoustic instrument, Cicada is highly responsive to differences in the excitation mechanism — the input signal, in other words. As an example, striking a snare drum with a stick or using it with brushes produce vastly different-sounding results; driving Cicada with quiet or loud, spectrally simple or complex, or bass- or treble-heavy signals similarly yield very different timbres.

Though Cicada is designed to work with a Eurorack setup out of the box, one of its strengths lies in its inherent flexibility. Indeed, it can just as easily receive signals from a DAW, boosted to the appropriate 5-10Vpp level via an outboard mixer. Moreover, the choice of input is completely left open to the user: an Ableton Live loop run through Cicada acting as a physical filter to provide timbral variety over time, for example; an LFO (Low Frequency Oscillator) from a Eurorack module, generating rich percussive tones on the maple Soundboard as the foundation of a beat; or a harmonically dense signal — similar to the output of a Max/MSP FM patch (which many would, without doubt, prefer to navigate physically rather than digitally) — made by moving the Bridge around the Soundboard to amplify certain harmonics and suppress others, finding a grittier sound with the Bridge barely touching or coaxing a more ethereal tone with it centred and depressed.

Endless exploration possibilities are a given, guaranteeing that any sonically-ambitious Cicada user is likely to while away the hours playing with input signals, system configurations, gestures, modulation combinations, and more.

It is hardly surprising, then, that Physical Synthesis sold out of its initial Cicada production run, really hitting a home run by counting luminaries like renowned electronic music composer and performer Hainbach — citing Cicada as being “The Tesla of electro-acoustic workstations, miles ahead of standard piezo and solenoid boxes...” — and Ableton CEO Gerhard Behles amongst its fan base, and has now turned to working with US-based distributor Electro Distro’s growing global network of dealers to bring its game-changing ‘acoustic synthesizer’ to a wider audience. “I want to bring acoustic synthesis to a wider range of musicians,” maintains Spencer Topel, before ending on a high note: “We are building some really exciting expansions of Cicada to different formats, including a Eurorack module called Nymph, which is coming soon.”

Physical Synthesis’ ‘acoustic synthesizer’ is now available as Cicada Founders Edition Extended — encompassing two dual AMPs, one PRE, one Actuator, five Bridges, three Soundboards, three Meanwell power supplies, three custom SATA Cables, and one custom Nanuk 935 Flight Case — for $2,700.00 USD or as Cicada Pro Series individual modules — starting at $79.00 USD — via San Clemente, CA, USA-based distributor Electro Distro’s growing global network of dealers (https://www.electro-distro.com/dealers) or directly from Physical Synthesis’ online Shop (https://shop.physical-synthesis.com).

For more in-depth information, please visit the dedicated Cicada webpage here: https://www.physical-synthesis.com

New York School of Synthesis - Mugs & More…

Avialable Here

BTW, if you somehow haven't heard of The New York School of Synthesis video series, see this post. You can find a series on the DX7 posted here.

via the Dean Friedman email list:

"Hey Folks,
Dean Friedman here with a friendly suggestion: if you're finding it a challenge to stay up for those all-night synth sessions, our New York School of Synthesis Coffee Mugs (filled with your favorite java, tea or other stimulating beverage) is the ideal solution for modulating those waveforms, oscillators and envelopes and tweaking those filters into shape.

And, of course, we've got plenty of New York School of Synthesis T-Shirts in stock, in both classic white and night-owl black. These classic T's are the epitome of synth fashion. Wearing your NYSS T-shirt out in public will show that you have your finger on the popular pulse wave of the bleeding edge of synth culture. (note: I have no idea what that actually means). Plus they're cool!

Enjoy your holidays and keep making cool sounds!

Dean Friedman
New York School of Synthesis"

RIP Rob Hordijk - Creator of the Blippoo Box, Benjolin, and Hordijk Modular Systems

video uploads by Pedro Trotz

"Rob Hordijk explains his modular designs at the European Electro Music Event 2012 that took place at Mallorca - Spain."

Sad news in via an anonymous reader today, who spotted the following from Pedro Trotz on Mod Wiggler. Those of you that have been following the site should be familiar with Rob Hordijk's work through numerous posts on the site. Two of his most famous creations were the Benjolin and Blippoo Box.

"I am deeply saddened to announce that my friend and mentor, Robert Ernst Hordjik, passed away earlier today. He was an important part of my life and I am sure also of many others here. He will be greatly missed.

I first met him in the Chateau Sonore event he organized in Belgium, in July 2007. There, lots of similar souls shared our passion for electronic music and electronic instruments. There was a lot of G2 and modular talk, but also performances, instrument demos, concerts, rehearsals... That's when I first heard of the Blippoo, one of his first creations that made him famous.

A few years later he started his work on the modular system that has his name. I felt so grateful for his initiative in Belgium that I couldn't help but planning a follow-up, this time in Mallorca. This time, our meeting had a lot less participants but it was an even better opportunity to make friendships that will last for a lifetime. I believe that in this meeting, in a trip we made to the north coast of the island, between the mountains of the Serra de Tramontana and the Mediterranean Sea, is when Rob decided that he wanted to retire to Mallorca. I can't blame him. It was the middle of January and we were having a pic-nic on the side of a curvy road facing the sea and enjoying what we natives call "the little summer" which is something that happens from time to time in mid-winter when the sea suddenly calms and temperatures rise up to 20 degrees Celsius.

We had a Benjolin workshop, we talked a lot about his design philosophy, and I was happy to record the first series of videos about his modular System. The ones you can find in my Youtube channel. After that series of videos I asked him to build a modular for me and soon enough he came back to Mallorca to deliver it in person.

During this visits I introduced him to Biyi and they automatically made a great connection. Biyi went a few times to The Hague to assist him in the building of Blippoos and modular systems. He even built his own under Rob's supervision. We all three had the idea to start a company in Mallorca where Rob would make the designs, Biyi build the stuff and I would take care of the business side of things. It was all set-up. As soon as his obligations in the Netherlands were fulfilled he would come to Mallorca. The moment arrived but almost at the same time his illness and COVID made things extra difficult.

In one of our talks he said to me that the Benjolin, the Blippoo and the Modular System were his dearest creations and that he was honored to have made so many people happy with them. Let's honor his memory by using them and making the most beautiful sound imaginable.

Farewell, my friend. I love you." - trotz

The following is from the Synth DIY wiki page on Hordijk.

Born in 1958, self described "synthesizer designer and builder,[3]" Rob Hordijk began learning electronics from around age 12 after developing a fascination with the glowing tubes in stereo amplifiers.[1][4] When he was 14 his father who had noticed young Rob's interest gave him a subscription to an electronics course, which lead to an examination for a ham radio license.

Trained as a designer and not a musician, Rob came from an arts background, studying as a sculptor and jeweler in the 1970s. He approached electronic music in a similar spirit to abstract painting, inspired by the ambient works of Brian Eno, and Luigi Russolo's Intonarumori instruments; where attempts were made to blur the boundaries between music and art:[1]

"In those days I was quite interested in the idea of sound as a material to be sculpted, in the same way you can sculpt wood and metal. [...] You can make mechanical objects that make all sorts of sounds, or you can make electronic objects that make all sorts of sounds. but what I like about the electronic objects is that you don't see what makes the sound. [...] It opens the way to sort of make it a bit mysterious."[1]

In the early 1980s as various integrated circuits, micro-controllers, and processors became available to hobbyists, Rob began buying things such as the early Curtis chips and RCA 1802 based SuperElf processor board out of curiosity more than professional ambition.[1][5] Later switching to an Apple ][+ and the Mountain Hardware Music System, for which he developed a Forth language version that could do all sorts of stuff with the Mountain cards, like KarplusStrong-type plucked string sounds and pitch shifting.[5] His first introduction to a DSP was to the DMX1000 around 1984. In 1986 he switched to Atari ST and an Akai S900.[5] These days he is a Clavia Nord Modular G2 aficionado.[5]

"I am not really a gear freak. But I do believe in mastering synthesis techniques, in making synthesis a second nature, so to be able to fully concentrate on the creative processes."[5]

After finishing art school, Rob also completed 11 years of study in Information Technology, learning about design methods and inventory control.[1] As well as his own instruments Rob worked on the Nord Modular G2 including contributing many patches to the Nord Modular online community, and wrote a comprehensive unofficial manual of the instrument. He has produced music for environments, buildings, film, and dance performances, but is yet to produce an official release on a label.[5] As of 2022 Rob has announced his retirement and will no longer be taking orders.[6]

Design Philosophy
Rob's personal definition of a modular synthesizer is more to do with modulation than modularity; referring to functional modules as 'sections'. Everything is supposed to be able to modulate or effect everything else. All levels within the system are optomised for comparability with one another.[1]

See https://sdiy.info/wiki/Rob_Hordijk_Design for more.

Update via brian comnes: Hordijk info on synthesis: https://rhordijk.home.xs4all.nl/G2Pages/ - quite in depth.

Allen Strange's Electronic Music Reprint Seeks Funding on Kickstarter

via Kickstarter

"Hello fans of Allen Strange and electronic music:

In June 2018, I was looking to buy a copy of Allen Strange's Electronic Music: System, Techniques and Controls, at a time when I was getting back into electronics and electronic music after an almost 30-year hiatus. I had vague recollections of a copy in the Electronic Music Studio at York University, where I made my first explorations into sound synthesis. The spine was gone and it was mostly a pile of papers stuffed into a folder. Finding that the only copies available were either poorly scanned PDFs, and used copies for sale online for hundreds of dollars, I was disheartened, to say the least. But I had a thought: what about finding the copyright holder and getting permission to reprint a few copies? It couldn't be that hard, right? I work at a university with lots of resources, so I should be able to figure out how to do it. AND, that way I'd be able to contribute something to the electronic music communities that I'd started to join, such as modwiggler.com, modulargrid.net, and other online forums, and who had been so welcoming, sharing all their collective knowledge and wisdom. These were places where I had heard about Allen Strange's Electronic Music: System, Techniques and Controls, in the first place.

I started a thread on Modwiggler to gauge interest. The interest was overwhelming, and motivating. After tracking down the original publisher, it took time to find out who currently owns the copyright. With the endless help and advice of librarians Ann Ludbrook and Sally Wilson at my school who specialize in e-publishing and copyright, we got to work. One of them tracked down Allen's partner Pat and helped ensure that the family once again held title to the work, and Pat agreed to let us give this whole Kickstarter a shot, and sent us her copy of Electronic Music: System, Techniques and Controls to disassemble and scan. Working with library staff and my research assistant Heidi Chan, we worked to get the book digitized, and ready for reproduction. One of the biggest challenges was to replace all the images of modules. That work fell to Heidi, who scoured the internet for people who still owned the original modules and synths used in the book, getting them to take new photographs for us to use. In some cases, the original designers of some of the modules no longer had them, but they helped us track down modules and acquire new images. With Pat's help, we have added a new introduction by Stephen C. Ruppenthal, as well as a few pages of testimonials from people who learned from and were inspired by Electronic Music: System, Techniques and Controls, from Suzanne Ciani and Todd Barton, to Dave Smith, Dave Rossum, Serge Tcherepnin, Dieter Doepfer and Tony Rolando. The book has a new cover, compliments of Allen and Pat's daughter Erin Strange, who did a wonderful job of creating a new design that carries the spirit of the original 1972 cover into this new edition. The text of book is faithful to the second edition of Allen Strange's Electronic Music: System, Techniques and Controls, published in 1983 by Wm. C. Brown Company.

Republishing Allen Strange's Electronic Music: System, Techniques and Controls, has been a four-year project since its inception. The goal, from the beginning, has been to bring this important work back into the hands of fans of the original, students and teachers of the history of electronic music, musicians and electronic music practitioners, and designers of electronic music systems. We have permission to make Allen's work available in print and electronic form from Pat Strange who holds the copyright, and Pat has been actively guiding our efforts through much of the project. At present, Allen Strange's Electronic Music: System, Techniques and Controls, will only be available through this Kickstarter.

In Pat's own words (from the preface): "Since it's first edition in 1972, Electronic Music: Systems, Techniques and Controls has been acknowledged as the definitive text on modular synthesis. In today’s musical community analogue techniques have made a resurgence among many musicians and composers. The idea of a republication has been in the works for many years and the timing of doing it now just made sense. I am very grateful to Jason Nolan, Ann Ludbrook and the team at Toronto Metropolitan University who saw the importance of this endeavor as well as taking on the task of bring this book back to life. I am so appreciative of their attention to preserving the quality of the book and respecting its content. I know that this project would have meant a lot to Allen, specifically in knowing that his techniques and teachings are continuing to influence the future of electronic music."

This is a non-profit project. Costs involved are royalties, production, logistics and shipping costs. Any residual funds will be donated to community music initiatives focusing on electronic music and electronic music learning. At present two organizations have agreed to receive funds, but we will identify more (in Europe next) depending on the amount of residual funds. These organizations are the Canadian Accessible Musical Instrument Network (http://camin.network) and the Willie Mae Rock Camp (https://www.williemaerockcamp.org).

Finally, I would like to thank Walker Farrell for the wonderful Kickstarter video.

Thank you to all supporters for being part of this project.

Jason Nolan"

NYC Composer Michael Whalen on the Minimoog Model D Signed by Herb Deutsch

video upload by moogfoundation

"'... It's a piece of art ... a piece of history.' - Michael Whalen

Recording artist, synthesist, composer, and producer Michael Whalen on why the Minimoog is so iconic, and why this one, in particular, is priceless.

Enter to win this stunning vintage Minimoog Model D in a custom walnut cabinet, signed by synthesizer pioneer Herb Deutsch https://bit.ly/DeutschMinimoogRaffle

The Minimoog featured is serial number 11,535, built at Moog Music’s Cheektowaga, NY factory during the late 1970s. It has an estimated value of $10,000. Due to the highly-coveted nature of this archetypal synthesizer, and the iconic signature from Herb Deutsch, it is likely to increase in value. This Minimoog has been meticulously restored by revered synthesizer technician Wes Taggart of Analogics, who also crafted its new custom walnut cabinet enclosure. It is in excellent technical and physical condition.

The raffle begins on February 9th, to commemorate Deutsch’s 90th birthday, and serves as an homage to his seminal contributions to the Moog legacy. It ends on March 7, 2022, at 11:59pm ET, or when all 4,500 tickets sell out, whichever comes first. Tickets are $20 each, six for $100, 14 for $200, or 40 for $500

Funds raised from the raffle will be used to expand the Foundation’s hallmark educational project, Dr. Bob’s SoundSchool, which has inspired over 20,000 elementary school students through the science of sound. The raffle will also help support the Moogseum, an immersive, experiential facility located in Asheville, NC, which brings Bob Moog’s pioneering legacy and the science of sound and synthesis alive for people of all ages. The Moogseum, which opened in late May of 2019, has welcomed over 14,000 visitors from all over the world, despite significant challenges due to the pandemic.

Our last raffle sold out so be sure to purchase your tickets early."

Synth Pioneer Herb Deutsch on the Minimoog-Enter to Win this Vintage Model D Signed by Herb Deutsch

video upload by moogfoundation

Click here for additional posts featuring Herb Deutsch.

"We both thought that this instrument should be an instrument that people are going to want to buy and have in their homes, and bring to gigs with them." - Herb Deutsch

Enter to win this stunning vintage Minimoog Model D in a custom walnut cabinet, signed by synthesizer pioneer Herb Deutsch https://bit.ly/DeutschMinimoogRaffle

The Minimoog featured is serial number 11,535, built at Moog Music’s Cheektowaga, NY factory during the late 1970s. It has an estimated value of $10,000. Due to the highly-coveted nature of this archetypal synthesizer, and the iconic signature from Herb Deutsch, it is likely to increase in value. This Minimoog has been meticulously restored by revered synthesizer technician Wes Taggart of Analogics, who also crafted its new custom walnut cabinet enclosure. It is in excellent technical and physical condition.

The raffle begins on February 9th, to commemorate Deutsch’s 90th birthday, and serves as an homage to his seminal contributions to the Moog legacy. It ends on March 7, 2022, at 11:59pm ET, or when all 4,500 tickets sell out, whichever comes first. Tickets are $20 each, six for $100, 14 for $200, or 40 for $500

Funds raised from the raffle will be used to expand the Foundation’s hallmark educational project, Dr. Bob’s SoundSchool, which has inspired over 20,000 elementary school students through the science of sound. The raffle will also help support the Moogseum, an immersive, experiential facility located in Asheville, NC, which brings Bob Moog’s pioneering legacy and the science of sound and synthesis alive for people of all ages. The Moogseum, which opened in late May of 2019, has welcomed over 14,000 visitors from all over the world, despite significant challenges due to the pandemic.

Our last raffle sold out so be sure to purchase your tickets early.

Minimoog Model D Signed by Herb Deutsch - NYC based Michael Whalen on why this synth is so special

video upload by moogfoundation

"Get your raffle tickets: https://bit.ly/DeutschMinimoogRaffle

'The Mini[moog] is iconic because of the sound ... really nothing sounds like it.' - Michael Whalen

Recording artist, synthesist, composer, and producer Michael Whalen on why the Minimoog is so iconic, and why this one, in particular, is priceless.

Enter to win this stunning vintage Minimoog Model D in a custom walnut cabinet, signed by synthesizer pioneer Herb Deutsch https://bit.ly/DeutschMinimoogRaffle

The Minimoog featured is serial number 11,535, built at Moog Music’s Cheektowaga, NY factory during the late 1970s. It has an estimated value of $10,000. Due to the highly-coveted nature of this archetypal synthesizer, and the iconic signature from Herb Deutsch, it is likely to increase in value. This Minimoog has been meticulously restored by revered synthesizer technician Wes Taggart of Analogics, who also crafted its new custom walnut cabinet enclosure. It is in excellent technical and physical condition.

The raffle begins on February 9th, to commemorate Deutsch’s 90th birthday, and serves as an homage to his seminal contributions to the Moog legacy. It ends on March 7, 2022, at 11:59pm ET, or when all 4,500 tickets sell out, whichever comes first. Tickets are $20 each, six for $100, 14 for $200, or 40 for $500

Funds raised from the raffle will be used to expand the Foundation’s hallmark educational project, Dr. Bob’s SoundSchool, which has inspired over 20,000 elementary school students through the science of sound. The raffle will also help support the Moogseum, an immersive, experiential facility located in Asheville, NC, which brings Bob Moog’s pioneering legacy and the science of sound and synthesis alive for people of all ages. The Moogseum, which opened in late May of 2019, has welcomed over 14,000 visitors from all over the world, despite significant challenges due to the pandemic.

Our last raffle sold out so be sure to purchase your tickets early. Purchase tickets here: https://bit.ly/DeutschMinimoogRaffle

Learn more about the Bob Moog Foundation: https://moogfoundation.org/"