E-mu Systems Modular 2023 Patch Demo

video upload by Silicon Breakdown

"E-mu Modular system recorded 6/5/2023. This video shows how 3 sounds are combined into to one using the mixer on the E-mu Modular. Each voice has 2-3 oscillators patched to a filter or two, an ADSR controlling a VCA that is then sent to the output mixer.

I am riding the mixer 2 channel that has the Sample and hold patched to control the frequency of a Low pass filter to add more of this channel as the sound develops.

Adding separate sounds that have their own oscillators, different ADSR and different filters as well as separate modulation to the filters you can create evolving sounds that have lots of depth.

#analogsynthesizer #Emusystems #synthesizer"

Marion Systems MSR-2 Super Patch Mode

video upload by Silicon Breakdown

"This video demonstrates the MSR-2 Super Patches that are set up on this specific MSR-2. Super Patches can have each 8 voice playing a different preset allowing a doubling of sounds and an easy way to make unique sounds.

New Patches are dialed in with the encoder and show and ASTERIK on right. Pressing enter switches to that Patch and ASTERIK goes away."

Oberheim Xpander Quick Test all voices working

video upload by Silicon Breakdown

"A very basic test to see that a Oberheim Xpander has all its voices working
Note there is some light modulation on single notes
Ends with tuning process"

This appears to be the one listed for sale here (pics captured here).

Marion Systems MSR-2 SN 01408

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

via this auction

Interesting location for the serial number.

"Marion Systems MSR-2 16 Voice Analog Synthesizer

Unit has Two Analog Synth Modules and was customized by Marion Systems

This auction is for one of the most powerful 1 unit analog synthesizers ever made. Two MIDI inputs and a 25 pin connector on each module to access all sorts of advanced features. Full MIDI implementation with velocity and aftertouch This MSR-2 comes with Original Manual and Original Power Supply Main unit 1.09 O.S. and 1.13 O.S. for each of the two ASM modules

A new Energizer battery was installed 3 years ago so should be good for another 15-20 years, but back up your stuff if you create great sounds.

Customized by Tom Oberheim and Marion Systems
In 1998 I sent the unit back to Marion Systems for an upgrade. They added a second Analog Synth Module (ASM) and upgraded the O.S. I was working as a tech at E-mu Systems and Tom Oberheim called me at work and we talked about my love for all synths Oberheim. He told me he could disable the EQ in the MSR-2 and get an addition al 3 DB of gain. I told him that would be great, they removed EQ, and the volume gain is significant. Tom was really nice and it was an honor, as an EE myself, to talk to him.

So yes this is a customized MSR-2 by Tom Oberheim and his Marion Techs. The Eq section screen is still there in software, but has no effect since disabled

Custom programmed SuperPatch sounds
I have created several Super Patches as shown in video below to show the power of this synth. The Super Patches are organized in groups
10 Bass Super Patches
10 Pad Super Patches
10 Lead Patches
and Sound Effect Super Patches
The factory patches are installed in the first 200 patches on each Analog Synth Module.

Search three words Silicon Breakdown Oberheim to see my love for the Oberheim synths. I have a picture of Tom Oberheim hanging in my studio. I have owned the website Silicon Breakdown since 1999, which is devoted to American analog synths.

This MSR-2 has been used in many songs by Mad Science Lab, search Spotify, Apple Music or my music site MadScienceLab(.)com
I only sell one or 2 synths a year from my collection.

The unit has never had any mechanical or audio issues and is 100% working."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Marion Systems MSR-2 16 voice demo

video upload by Silicon Breakdown

"This video demos basic features of the Marion Systems MSR-2 analog synthesizer by Tom Oberheim. This unit has two 8 voice analog modules. The SuperPatch mode is shown in detail where I have programmed 10 Bass SuperPatches and 10 Pad SuperPatches to show the real power of this synthesizer. I slowly demo each of these SuperPatches.
The units LCD screen is hard to focus on without getting close, so early section unit screen is slightly blurry.
Moving in closer camera focuses on LCD.
SuperPatches are selected, and then an asterisk shows next to name.
Pushing enter switches SuperPatch to selected"

Korg EX-8000 Demonstration

video upload by Silicon Breakdown

"This video demonstrates the basic functions of the Korg EX-8000. An external keyboard transmits MIDI to the unit, and Filter Changes, Volume changes and program changes are shown to be fully functioning on this unit"

Zlob Introduces the VC F3DB Fixed Filter Bank Eurorack Module

What is a Fixed Filter Bank? | Chaos + Control with Zlob VC F3DBvideo upload by Sarah Belle Reid

"In this video, we explore the history of fixed filter banks in synthesizers (what they are, how they work), demonstrate some classic fixed filter bank concepts, and then dive into a series of patch examples exploring the Zlob Modular VC F3DB.

Zlob Modular's VC F3DB is a filter bank for Eurorack modular synthesizers. But it's much more than just that as well; while it can produce the clean, dry, nasal tones you might expect from a classic Moog or Buchla filter bank, it is designed to leverage feedback, clipping, and per-band envelope followers, allowing it to act as a chaotic sound source, spectral decoder, and intense distortion.

To access extended audio from this video (aaand there's a lot of it!), check out my Patreon page! You're free to use these sounds as materials for you own music, as well:
www.patreon.com/sarahbellereid

Video Timestamps:
00:00 Intro + Video Overview
01:40 What's A Fixed Filter Bank?
03:36 What's a Filter Bank Good For?
07:42 F3DB Module Overview
09:53 Patch #1: Clipping
11:37 Patch #2: Adding Modulation
16:00 Patch #3: Feedback
19:48 Patch #4: Feedback (But Less Crazy This Time)
22:00 Patch #5: Feedback with Modulation
24:43 Patch #6: Spectral Decoder"
Zlob VC F3DB First Look video upload by Brett Naucke

"A first look at this fantastic new 6-Band Voltage Controlled Filterbank by Zlob Modular. Patch examples including manual filtering, drum processing, voltage controlled filter animation, 'vocoding' and some exploitations using the filterbank as a chaotic audio source. This is a GREAT filterbank capable of some very unique overdrive and distortion functions that set it apart from all other filterbanks in eurorack modular."

https://zlobmodular.com

via Zlob Modular

"VC F3DB stands for Voltage Controlled Fixed Filter Feedback Distortion Bank. The simplest description is it’s a 16hp six band voltage controlled fixed filter bank. But with the additions of so much gain, clipping, feedback, and self-oscillation it becomes a very flexible and unique gestural sound sculpting tool capable of; graphic equalization over 6 octaves, multi-band distortion, spectral processing, crude vocoding, multi-frequency envelope following, self-modulation, and even as an instrument on its own. With no input it can be used as a pseudo chaotic “harmonic” feedback oscillator.

The filter frequencies were specifically chosen to emphasize more ambiguous and dissonant intervals. Although the frequency bands are spread out over many octaves I purposely tried to leave out “3rds” besides a major 10th at the top frequencies to even out all the dissonance below. But the frequencies aren’t exactly equal tempered, so it’s relative. The bands roughly equate to F2, B3, F#5, C6, F7, A8.

The design is based on the Moog 914 filterbank, which it borrows the frequency bands from. But this circuit uses active filters with opamps inspired by YU Synth opposed to passive cells using inductors on the original. The 88hz is a low pass -24db/oct and 7k is a high pass -24db/oct, the rest are -12db/oct band pass filters all with a Q around 4.

The hard and soft clipping circuit on the input is fairly standard which appears in many different iterations of classic guitar pedals. But it has a lot of gain and can even boost line level signals. What makes it a bit unique is the feedback on the clipping circuit which needs to be turned on by the GFB(gain feedback) switch and the amount can be controlled by the Gain FB pot which can add some fuzz/bite to the signal depending on which clipping switch is engaged or at the extremes it will self oscillate from audio rate to LFO sort of clicking range. All the clipping stages in the module are using silicon diodes.

Consult the Signal Flow Chart to the left for a rough visual breakdown of the controls,in/outs,normalizations, and optional settings for the module.

Each band can also be muted by the top toggle switches or clipped(at the VCA) by the top slide switch which makes this design a bit different than other filter banks. As well as the overall feedback section(bottom middle) takes the sum/all bands out through a VCA(controlled by the feedback pot and FB CV) back to the input gain/clip circuit. and you can also tap into this using different sends/bands to the FB In jack to break the normalization. With this extra feedback “resonance” you can get more whistley and howly filter sounds kinda like the Serge res eq, which can also go into self oscillation.

All cv ins are expecting +5v to open the VCAs(they wont respond to negative voltage), once you get closer to +8v or so it can clip the vca regardless of the gain settings or clip switches. Output amplitude in high gain settings will exceed 10vpp and can get up to 20vpp. The envelope followers tend to stay around 0-5v out, but with clip switch active they can go up to 10v.

Since this is a high gain module there can be bleed between the bands in certain configurations and situations. Also in high gain modes with higher frequencies the 2.8k and 7k bands can bleed a little with the VCAs closed.

This is a highly involved DIY all through hole project. It is a long build with 5 different pcbs to solder and assemble.

THIS IS NOT A BEGINNER OR INTERMEDIATE PROJECT."

Vintage 1976 Arp 2600 (S/N 2601-0064) & 3620 Keyboard Controller

Note: Auction links are affiliate links for which the site may be compensated.
videos by Silicon Breakdown

"Recorded April 2021 using Vintage 1976 Arp 2600 (S/N 2601-0064)"

Playlist:
1. Arp 2600 Filter Modulation 2021
2. Arp 2600 Oscillator Check
3. Arp 2600 How to tune up oscillators and verify they are calibrated correctly

via this auction

"This is an Arp 2600 in great condition. Not only is the exterior and Tolex in great condition, the electronics are also in great condition, and all features work. Every key on the keyboard plays without glitches or drifting. Every slider, pot and jack work. All hardware on the cases and the Tolex covering are original. A matching 3620 keyboard is also in great shape and plays perfectly. The original lids for the 2600 and 3620 are included."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Overview & Demo | Korg Wavestation SR

Thoughtful Clips

"The last & most powerful Wavestation hardware to see daylight in the 1990s (without audio inputs, sadly). The SR is an evolution of technology with touches from some of the most influential sound designers and synth engineers of all time.

[active links on YouTube here]

MU:ZINES:
http://www.muzines.co.uk/articles/kor...
Dan Phillips’ Wavestation SysEx banks page:
http://www.danphillips.com/wavestatio...
Dan Phillips’ excellent Wavestation comparison chart:
http://www.danphillips.com/wavestatio...
Controlling the SR from an external X/Y controller:
https://www.gearslutz.com/board/elect...
KorgForums Wavestation has all three SR RAM banks:
http://korgforums.com/support/wavesta...
Insights from Dr. Mike Metlay on Wavestation history and technology:
http://forums.musicplayer.com/ubbthre...
Edisyn Editor (works with Wavestation SR):
https://github.com/eclab/edisyn/
01 series card sets:
https://indra.com/~cliffcan/01pcm.htm...
SOS Wavestation Tips:
https://www.soundonsound.com/techniqu...
VintageSynth:
http://www.vintagesynth.com/korg/korg...
Silicon Breakdown’s look at the Prophet VS:
http://www.siliconbreakdown.com/proph..."

EML 101 Analog Synthesizer Filter Modulation

Published on May 23, 2018 Silicon Breakdown

"This is a demonstration of the filter modulation capabilities on an EML 101 Analog synthesizer. Oscillator one is used as a source for the Sampler producing the well known sample and holfd effect on the filter frequency. Also Osc 1 is sent directly to the filter frequency for additional modulation.All without a patch cable."

EML 101 Analog Synthesizer Tuning & 4 Voice Unison

Published on May 22, 2018 Silicon Breakdown

"This is a short demonstration of the correct tuning on the 4 oscillators of an EML 101 Analog synthesizer.
Then a short demonstration of oscillator and mixer controls working cleanly with no noise is done.
Excellent condition for a synth of this age
more information on the EML 101 here
http://www.siliconbreakdown.com/eml.html"

EML 101 Analog Synthesizer 4 Voice Operation

Published on May 22, 2018 Silicon Breakdown

"This is a demonstration of the 4 oscillators of an EML 101 Analog synthesizer all playing in unison
This short demonstration shows the oscillators tracking and mixer controls working cleanly with no noise
Excellent condition for a synth of this age"

Sequential Circuits Prophet 5 Rev 3.3 with MIDI

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

via this auction

"This is a fully functioning Prophet 5 in great condition. It has not been in a storage unit and shows no signs of rust. (tip: always look at the rear screws and jack washers for signs of rust on old synths) This Prophet 5 correctly runs autotune on all 5 voices and has been hot tuned by Riley Smith.. It has been in the Mad Science Lab for the last 14 years and used by the group Silicon Breakdown on many songs..."

CLICK FOR MORE »

Oberheim OB-X with Encore Electronics MIDI

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

via this auction

"This is a 4 voice OB-X with the Encore Electronics MIDI kit installed and it comes with the owners manual, service manual, and Encore Electronics kit Manual. It will be shipped in a brand new road case.

This OB-X was serviced November 4th 2012 by Riley Smith former tech at Sequential Circuits and E-Mu Systems. He went through the unit completely, replaced the key bushings so it plays great, retuned all the oscillators, and calibrated and tested the unit as specified in the service manual.

More pictures and sound examples of this OB-X here.

CONDITION

This OB-X is in near perfect condition. It has NOT been in a storage unit and shows NO signs of rust

(tip: always look at the rear screws and jack washers for signs of rust on old synths)

It has been in the Mad Science Lab for 16 years and used by the group Silicon Breakdown on many songs. The second photo on this page shows the studio where it’s home has been.

I bought the OB-X from the Starving Musician store in San Jose in 1996. The tag on the back says 8 voice, but it is a 4 voice, I assumed they used the other voice cards to fix other Oberheims. Check out sound examples to see how fat 4 voices can be.

The wood panels and screws and jacks are all original, yet they look almost new. It has never left the studio except to be tuned. The front panel graphics are perfect. The tech mentioned the D key near the word Programmer had been repaired at some point, but the key plays, it is just goes down about 1/8th of inch less then the other keys and feels more squishy then the other keys. It is not visible till you know it's there, and it's not visible in these pictures. I did not know about the key until he tore the keyboard apart to replace the key bushings. There is one large scratch on the back of the unit near the MIDI jack, which is clearly visible in the pictures.

MIDI

This OB-X has the Encore Electronics MIDI kit installed.


This kit allows for MIDI notes as well as midi control of the filter cutoff, resonance and many other controls. It also increases the patch storage from just 32 to 120. And you can save the presets over MIDI so no more messing with tapes. I had the Kenton MIDI kit initially but the Encore Electronics kit is much better. The Oberheim OB-X never had MIDI when produced, and you do not want to deal with a special sequencer DSX hookup to control an OB-X. You need MIDI so you can control the OB-X from a computer sequencer, or a midi keyboard that has controllers to route to the many MIDI controllers on the OB-X Encore kit."

Silicon Breakdown's Interview of Emu's Dave Rossum

Full interview here.

Some excerpts:

"My first encounter with Dave Rossum was over the telephone some nine years ago, when he prevented me from purchasing sight unseen thousands of dollars of E-mu equipment. Dave instead encouraged me to purchase a few submodules and test them out. I did and I was hooked. Dave is an original. His first E-mu modular system has set the standard by which all other modular systems will be judged. Brilliant and witty, Dave is a new breed of electronic music pioneer whose contribution to the design of equipment for other manufacturers may have shaped the nature of the synthesizer as much as did Robert Moog's original thinking...

JL: Your influence in the design of both the Prophet 5 and the equipment of Oberheim Electronics have been grossly overlooked. Would you care to comment on what you've done for both companies?

DR: Let me talk first about Tom Oberheim, whom I met at an AES convention in the spring of 1974. We both liked each other immediately and started talking about ideas. He was talking about his phase shifter, and said something to the effect that he knew it could be done with a 3080 transconductance amp, but didn't know exactly how to do it. So I scribbled out a circuit and said here's how you do it. He said "I bet that�s patentable", and I said "I'm sure it is". He asked how would I feel about patenting it and sharing the rights under the patent? I thought it was a great Idea, and that was the beginning of our association...

The involvement with the Prophet 5 was very similar. Dave Smith had come to us for design help with other projects, when he decided to get into a synthesizer, he came over and basically started picking our brains from the beginning, which was an intelligent thing to do. We did some specific circuit designs for the Prophet 5,reviewed virtually everything in it, and gave him access to lots of E-mu documentation. Again, we had a royalty arrangement, the product went over well, and we made a lot of money...but of course had the Prophet not gone over, we wouldn't have gotten anything for our time so essentially, we again invested in the company. Still, royalties are not a trouble-free way to conduct business. One reason why we have a bit of trouble right now in our relationship with Oberheim and Sequential Circuit* - I can't say I'm close friends with, or see a lot of, either company - is because of this arrangement where they're still paying us royalties for things we did a long time ago. Sometimes, people forget how much they appreciated you a long time ago. So we've learned that royalties aren't always best, not so much because they're not financially lucrative, but because they destroy friendships - and as far I'm concerned, friendships are probably more important than the money itself..."

Do check out the full interview. You'll find tons of interesting nuggets of synth history.

Silicon Breakdown Synths Page

link via Oliver Chesler in the comments of this post. The site includes ARP, MOOG, Emu, Oberheim, and EML.