The Best 'Budget' Synth You've Never Heard

video upload by Starsky Carr

"The Korg DW-8000 & the Retroaktiv DW-8P mk2 MIDI Controller. The DW-8000 is something of a hidden gem, with a fervent following among its fans for good reason. Released in 1985 it was ahead of its time, coming with 16 digital waveforms and Korgs own gorgeous analog filter it is a lovely sounding hybrid. Add to that it came along with the world's first onboard digital delay and cost less than 20% of a PPG this was truly groundbreaking. The Prophet VS didn't arrive until a year later, and the Waldorf Microwave wasn't released until 1989.

It does suffer from 80s minimal interface syndrome, but luckily we have the Retroaktiv DW-8P mk2 which not only brings all the controls to hand but improves on the mk1 with loads of extras like the assignable mod matrix, dual DIN connections, USB MIDI and power, larger screen, improved interface and graphics.

And most of all it brings out the best in the synth as the mod matrix and hands on control really bring it to life."

0:00 Intro
2:12 Interface and Synth Overview
4:27 Ta Dah... the DW-8P
6:13 ADBSSR Envelopes
7:07 Pitch Ramp
7:28 Digital Delay/Chorus
10:59 A Word on the DW-6000
11:58 Closer Look at Some Waveshapes
13:44 A Patch From Scratch
15:29 Arpeggiator + Voice Modes
16:59 Loading and Storing
17:30 Espen's Patch(es)
19:05 Import from the Synth
20:20 Assign/Mod Matrix
23:22 Chord Mode
25:37 Patch Generator

Redshift 6 - Firmware Update 1.2

Press release follows.

"Supercritical Synthesizers have just released the second firmware update for the Redshift 6 and it’s available at our website. The Firmware Update 1.2 brings Clock, LFO clock sync, NRPN support for parameter control, Mod Lock, and also 65 new presets from Gattobus, Starsky Carr, and our team.

VERSION 1.2

Added
Clock that can be synced via MIDI
LFO clock sync
Tap tempo
All parameters can now be controlled with NRPN and some with CC
Velocity to Amp quick modulation on AMP page
Mod lock
Double-tap a mod source to latch mod assignment mode
Hold a source and double-tap another one to latch mod + via assignment
Tap the blinking source or via button or Esc to unlatch
DCO keyfollow setting -400% to 400% on the KEY page
Keyboard octave switching: Up/Down on Key page, or Shift + Up/Down anywhere
Filter keyfollow snap to nominal 1:1, 2:1, 3:1 (these are not super accurate in self oscillation)
65 new presets by Gattobus, Starsky Carr and our team

Changed
New parameter adjustment logic
Default is as previously, except adjustment is more responsive (much smaller “deadzone” when starting to move a knob)
Holding shift now enables parameter fine tuning, allowing for much smaller adjustments (you can for example adjust tune by less than a cent)
Double-tap Shift to latch fine tune mode, tap Shift or Esc to unlatch
Parameter steps are now accessed by holding down a knob while turning
Perform page now shows clock status and incoming MIDI
Clarify a bunch of names around the UI
LFO Reset Phase now has steps at 25%, 50% and 75%
DCO Stack & Detune visualization now more accurately reflects what’s happening in the voice
Short grace period after adjusting modulation to prevent accidentally changing the parameter
Keyfollow now also follows pitch bend and portamento (might change behaviour of some presets)
Minor visual tweaks and fixes

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Novation Summit + Peak // Recreating Classic Vintage Patches

video upload by Starsky Carr

"Classics Vintage Patches from The Novation SUMMIT and PEAK Just a bit of fun... not meant to be identical, but I attempted to recreate some of my favourite patches on my Juno 60, Minimoog, Prophet 5, DW-8000 and OB-X8 - and it was going so well I ended up creating a soundbank.

These were selected to give a nice wide range of tones - single, dual and triple, VCO, DCO and digital oscillators

It can't do everything, obviously, but it gets really close on loads of tones - I was not expecting them to be identical but it can get close to the characters.

For this I created a few wavetables for the Summit/Peak from the DW-8000 waves and also the stacked waves from the Prophet 5. You can select multiple waves on the Prophet, but you can't on the Novation's so it was simple enough to create a wavetable to give all options.. saw+sq, saw+sq+triangles etc.

Buy the pack here:
https://www.starskycarr.com/patches/p..."

Behringer RD78 // Review and Demo

video upload by Starsky Carr

"Superbly CHEESY The Behringer RD-78 is their take on the classic *Roland CompuRyhtm CR-78*. The CR78 was famous for having user patterns, you could actually save your own! You've heard it on loads of tracks, and as it was originally designed as an organ accompaniment - like all the OG drum machines - its got some wonderfully cheesy rhythms - who doesn't love a Beguine, Foxtrot, Tango or Mambo?"

0:00 what is it?
0:40 Classic Patterns
6:43 Writing User Patterns
9:22 Some MIDI info

3rd Wave vs Behringer Wave // A PPG Style Digital Artefact Comparison

video upload by Starsky Carr

"A look at the digital artefacts generated by the Behringer WAVE and Groove Synthesis 3rd WAVE and how they process the sounds. If I compared everything it would be 95% 3RD WAVE as it does so much more. So here I'm concentrating on the raw tone when using the 3rd Wave in 'PPG Mode' ie all the modern stuff turned off, and keeping it raw.

The Behringer WAVE is designed essentially to emulate the PPG almost exactly. Although it does have a few additions, overall it sticks rigidly to the PPG experience. The 3rd wave is a flexible studio centrepiece with a modern interface and comprehensive set of functions... which is reflected in the price!

I take a look at the wavetables, aliasing, imaging and a brief look at the envelopes."

Roland Aira S-1 // A mini SH101 and so much more

video upload by Starsky Carr

"The Roland Aira Compact S-1 uses Roland's Analog Circuit Behaviour (ACB) technology to emulate the classic SH-101 monosynth from the 80s. ... plus a lot more, like 4 voice poly, delay and reverb, wave drawing, fast LFO, MIDI (obvs), poly sequencer with parameter locks, extra LFO shapes, and D-motion.

In this I have a play with a few of the factory sequences to give a feel for its range and play it alongside my vintage SH101 to see how close it gets."

Check with dealers on the right for availability.

THE Ambient MONSTER // Steampipe

video upload by Starsky Carr

"Yes it can do flutes, pan pies, strings, pipe organs and cellos. For me, however, the Erica Synths and 112dB Steampipe is a glorious ambient machine. Scary movies, sci fi spaceships, beautiful textures and feedbacks..

But if you've got a wind controller, the delicate nuances you can get from the Steampipe are like nothing else."

Which one is for you? UDO Super6 or Super8 .. or Gemini?

video upload by Starsky Carr

"While I've got these 2 UDO synths 2 in the studio I thought I'd put them together. Thy are very similar. The Super 6 costs less, has 4 octaves but longer sliders. The Super 8 has an amazing keyboard, more voices and a couple of extras.

i thought sonically they would be the same, but the filter is different. It's more resonant on the Super 8 and the modulation amount is much greater ... much more like my Jupiter6. Something I noticed when I put the Super6 and the Jupiter 6 together was less mod. This has been improved... loads better!

My overall takehome is -- if you're a keyboard player (not tweaker) it's the Super8 all day long. The Super 6 fits neater on my rack, and still has the poly aftertouch with the upgraded keyboard. I'm so fickle the Super 8 caught my eye as it looks more like my Jupiter 6 - the dimensions have a real classic feel. Being practical I should keep the Super 6, but who's lead by their head not their heart? ;)"

The GS Music E7 is Currently 10% Off For Presidents' Day

via GS Music

The GS E7 synthesizer is an innovative instrument offering robust features for both amateur and professional musicians. It’s the first polyphonic and multitimbral analog synthesizer made in Argentina, reflecting years of dedicated research and development. The E7 is capable of generating a wide range of sound possibilities, boasting seven voices of polyphony, which can be split across four different parts, making it effectively multitimbral. Key features include two voltage-controlled oscillators (VCOs) per voice, with ultra-stable tuning over seven octaves and several waveform options. It also features a 24dB/oct low-pass filter with resonance control, dual ADSR envelope generators, and three low-frequency oscillators (LFOs) for complex modulation possibilities.

Furthermore, the E7 supports MIDI Polyphonic Expression (MPE), enhancing its performance capabilities. This allows each note to be articulated individually, providing nuanced expression and dynamic control that can bring each performance to life. This is especially beneficial for advanced players looking to push the boundaries of sound texture and musical expression.

Additionally, the E7 includes onboard effects such as Chorus and Delay, enhancing the synthesizer’s sound-shaping capabilities. The design ensures easy access to a wide range of functions via a streamlined interface with minimal controls, making it user-friendly while still allowing for deep sound exploration. For President’s Day, the GS E7 is now available with a 10% discount exclusively at gsmusic.com.


This is why people LOVE the tone of the e7

video upload by Starsky Carr

Video previously featured here. You can find an additional video from Starsky Carr featuring the E7 here. See the GS Music label below for more.

https://www.gsmusic.com/

UDO Super 8 // Sounding Lush

video upload by Starsky Carr

"A sounds only demo of the UDO Synthesizers Super 8 Synth. It sits between the Super 6 and the Super Gemini in the line-up, having a few extras to the Super 6 but without the additional set of controls we get on the Super Gemini.

All 3 synths use effectively the same engine with a few minor tweaks (I've a demo coming this week so keep an eye out for it).. so all of them can create all these tones."

This is why people LOVE the tone of the e7 by GS Music

video upload by Starsky Carr

https://www.gsmusic.com

"A Sounds Only Demo of the GS Music e7 Synth. It's a back to basics VCO based 7 voice analog warmth machine.

These are sounds I made while on my journey of discovery, experimenting with the various functions. I always find it easier to demo a synth using tones I'd use in tracks... which normally means creating my own. So that goes hand in hand with understanding how it works for my demos.

This is a selection of tones from my bank of 64, which is available here: https://www.starskycarr.com/patches/p..."

Introducing Novation Bass Station by GForce Software

video upload by GForce Software

"Novation and GForce are proud to announce the release of the GForce Bass Station, a brand-new software version of the original analogue synthesiser.

Bass Station is an iconic mono-synth, celebrated for its raw, punchy bass and distinctive analogue filter. First launched in 1993, it has been a core part of Novation's brand ever since.

The new GForce Bass Station AU / VST is an exact emulation of the original Bass Station, now with a new expanded mode, which includes up to 16-voice polyphony and unison modes, taking its versatility far beyond the monophonic hardware original.

More info at https://www.gforcesoftware.com/produc...

Credits
Reverb Machine - audio demo
Graeme Rawson - video production
Çağatay Çetin - 3D animation"

Novation Bass Station by GForce Walkthrough

video upload by GForce Software

00:00 - Intro
00:45 - Overview
02:22 - LFO
03:15 - Oscillators
06:32 - OSC Modulation
07:30 - Filter
08:30 - Envelopes
09:15 - Modulation
11:22 - XMods
14:15 - FX
17:10 - Controls
20:07 - Macros
21:07 - Sequencer
28:02 - Arpeggiator
29:01 - Settings
30:50 - Browser
33:30 - Collections
34:20 - Saving a Patch
35:25 - CC Mapping
36:15 - Undo / Redo

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Connecting the Stylophone Drone Synth to External Gear // Who Needs Envelopes Anyway?

video upload by Starsky Carr

"Retriggering slow LFOs can give you envelope style modulation. In this I demo how it works on the Stylophone CPM DS-2 drone synth.

It s super short video, but shows CV to pitch connections so I'm showing how to control the oscillator pitch with external eurorack modules, keys, sequencers etc."

Introducing the Stylophone CPM DF-8, a powerful addition to the Compact Portable Modular (CPM) range

video upload by Stylophone

What is This Madness - A Synth with No Envelopes? // Stylophone CPM DS-2

video upload by Starsky Carr

"What can you do with a synth that has no envelopes? It turns out to be very therapeutic. Stylophone's latest release is the CPM DS-2 (what happened to DS-1?) - it's a drone synth which can create all sorts of interesting, ambient, dramatic, demonic, lush, chilled textures and soundscapes.

The clever bit is having everything bouncing around to a single LFO with multiple waveforms, 2 outputs, different phases etc."

0:00 WTF is a drone synth?
3:12 Intro demo
4:48 What's in the box?
5:53 Oscillators 3340 VCOs
8:42 Filters 12dB LP HP 3320
11:29 ULTRA LFO
16:03 Reverb abd Delay
19:08 Final Jam
22:01 Final Thoughts



"This cutting-edge filter unit combines the precision of a smooth analog recreation of the classic 2045 Lowpass filter with the bold, dynamic character of Stylophone’s proprietary GEN R-8 filter.

Sign up for the waiting list:
https://stylophone.com/stylophone-df-...

Come and see it at NAMM 2025

Dubbed 'Beauty and the Beast,' the DF-8 offers unparalleled flexibility. The 2045 filter delivers a silky 24 dB/octave Lowpass mode, while the GEN R-8 snarls and howls in all four modes—Lowpass, Bandpass, Highpass and Notch. Together, these filters unlock three additional combination types: Bandpass+, Band Reject+, and a wide Notch+ mode, providing an expansive palette of unique filter sounds.

Both filter channels have all eight filter types and are controlled by two full ADSR envelopes with multiple trigger modes to cater for every need. They can be triggered by a gate signal, by an audio signal threshold, by a manual trigger button and they can even auto-repeat in a loop mode acting as LFOs.
The DF-8 is so much more than a dual filter box—it’s a complete sound design tool. Equipped with two white noise sources, a Sample & Hold modulation source with adjustable slew, and a crunchy PT2399 delay with modulation, it serves as a sound source capable of everything from subtle atmospheres to all out sonic chaos.

Like all CPM units, the DF-8 is designed for portability and flexibility. It features:
• Multiple power options, including AA batteries, external PSU, or Eurorack power bus
• A built-in 2W speaker for instant listening without amplification plus stereo outputs
• Stylophone’s unique enclosure design with side ribs allow multiple CPM units to be locked together, for stability like a large modular, and for easy system expansion
Pair the CPM DF-8 with the CPM DS-2 to create the ultimate compact portable analog modular system for studio or stage use.

Features list:

2 Analog multi-mode filter channels with high resonance self-oscillation

8 Filter types per channel:
4 types of GEN R-8 (12 dB/oct) filters with LP, BP, HP and NOTCH modes
1 type of 2045 (24 dB/oct) filter with LP mode
3 combination types (12/24 dB/oct) with BP+, BR+ and NOTCH+ modes

2 ADSR envelopes with linear and exponential response

4 Envelope trigger/gate modes:
Analog CV trigger/gate signal input
Audio signal input with adjustable trigger/gate threshold
Manual trigger/gate button
Auto-repeat AR envelope loop mode

2 VCAs with envelope inverters

2 White noise sources with volume controls

3 Envelope depth attenuverters

4 Bypass switches for filters and VCAs

1 Sample & Hold modulation source with sync input and adjustable slew

1 Vintage PT2399 tape-style delay with modulation

14 Modular patch points for audio, envelopes, filters, VCAs and S&H

3-Into-1 mixer with stereo or mono output

2 Stereo outputs (line level/phones) with seperate volume controls

1 Built-in 2 Watt speaker

6 AA battery compartment

1 Eurorack power bus connector

42 HP Eurorack front panel format"

Vintage Soul in a Modern Body // GS Music E7

video upload by Starsky Carr

https://www.gsmusic.com/

"Drawing inspiration from the classics the GS Music E7 takes a 'best of' approach to bring us a modern VCO with a totally vintage vibe. It doesn't replicate any synth in particular, (it's got 7 voices for a start!) but you'll be familiar with all the functions and can recreate pretty much any classic tone. Talking of tones, it's got a wonderful sound quality that pulls you in and charms your socks off.

But it doesn't stop in the 80s.. we have MPE mode, it's 4-part multitimbral, with MIDI CC control, 600 preset slots, USB and full sized MIDI IN OUT & THRU

It also vas CV control for more sonic explorations - something I've not delved into yet."

0:00 Modern VCO with a Vintage Heart
5:51 Lil' Demo with a 909
6:53 Voicing Options
13:28 It's 4-Part Multitimbral
19:40 The Oscillators
24:18 Sync
25:39 24dB Resonant Filter
30:23 It's MPE Compatible
31:09 MPE Demo
32:16 The Envelopes have Lots of options
36:20 The LFOs have Loads of modes
39:56 Chorus and Ensemble
42:21 Digital Delay
45:23 Amp Mod
45:26 Pros and Cons

https://www.gsmusic.com/

Redshift 6 // All Factory Presets // Sounds Only

video upload by Starsky Carr

"Running through all of the Factory Presets in the Supercritical Redshift 6 synth. This is a no talking demo, I've a full breakdown of the concept here: • Supercritical RedShift 6 // Analog We... [posted here]

I've added reverb to the more reverb friendly tones in the first half. I think this gives a better understanding of how the sounds would fit in a mix. If you prefer them in the raw I still got you covered. Jump to the second half. It's the same recordings, same sounds etc, naked."

Supercritical RedShift 6 // Analog Weight with Multiple Personalities

video upload by Starsky Carr

"The Redshift 6 is based on the Supercritical Demon Core Oscillator and Neutron Flux Filter eurorack modules.. both of which offer a huge amount of flexibility for analog oscillators and filters. Supercritical have been able to do this through designing a system where they can control the character of the filters and oscillators under digital control.

Which is why this is called a variable character synthesizer. It has 5 distinct characters, from smooth and gooey to nasty and dirty howling resonance.

Although the final firmware has not yet been 100% implemented - I thought it would be interesting to demo the overall principles and how it all works."

0:00 What is it?
1:46 Hardware
4:28 It's got 5 Distinct Characters
7:11 It's got 6 Complex Oscillators
13:23 Filter.. or is that Filters?
21:31 Drive
28:23 Modulation
34:55 To Be Implemented
35:56 Wrapping Up

Novation Launchkey Mk4 // All The Cool Bits

video upload by Starsky Carr

"Novation's Launchkey Mk4 has a few lovely little tricks up its sleeve - great Ableton integration, a cheeky little chord mode for exploration and inspiration and variations on the Arp that can create interesting lines beyond the standard.

Here I run through the main 'special' bits without going into too much detail on the system as a whole... i.e. just the highlights."

0:00 intro
1:02 Independent Controls
2:02 Ableton Integration
3:23 Bundled Software
4:36 Drum Sequencing XOX style
6:25 Recording, Quantisation and Undo
7:29 Chord Modes
12:07 Arps
14:59 Scales
17:10 Show me the money!

Motorized Knobs // Gimmick or Gamechanger?

video upload by Starsky Carr

"The Melbourne Instruments Nina and Delia use their proprietary motorised potentiometers, which have created a lot of interest... and also a fair amount of intrigue... whats the downside? are they really that good?"

0:00 Motorized Faders?
3:11 Haptic Feedback
5:32 THE FORCE - reacting to MIDI CC
6:34 Reliability & Maintenance
8:16 Price & Power - What are the costs?
10:52 Gimmick or Gamechanger?

MiniFreak - Firmware Update 3.0 | ARTURIA

video upload by Arturia

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