NAMM 2013: Akai MAX25 USB/MIDI/CV Keyboard Controller Overview

Akai MAX25 USB/MIDI/CV Keyboard Controller Overview - Sweetwater Sound at Winter NAMM 2013
Published on Jan 24, 2013 SweetwaterSound·1,180 videos

"Drew Hollis from Akai Professional gives an overview of the MAX25 keyboard controller. See the MAX25 and other NAMM products at Sweetwater's Winter NAMM 2013 Show Report: http://www.sweetwater.com/publications/reports/?action=day&day=1&sid=48

Akai's MAX25 USB/MIDI/CV controller breaks new ground by giving you unprecedented control over any processor or sound module - MIDI gear, software instruments, or even analog synthesizers with CV and Gate connectivity. Innovative touch faders give you a new way to control parameters, whether you assign them to control faders in your DAW's mixer or use them to tweak effects during a DJ set.

Akai Professional MAX25 Keyboard Controller Features:

• Semi-weighted keys with aftertouch
• MPC pads, MPC Note Repeat, and MPC swing
• Step sequencer and expanded arpeggiator
• CV & Gate outputs"

1940 Hammond Novachord Synthesizer Fully Rebuilt

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

via this auction

Beautiful, but pricey!

"This is the exact instrument that was recently featured at Sweetwater Sound's 2017 GearFest. To see a video of this synthesizer up close and hear what sounds it can produce, search YouTube for "Sweetwater Novachord".

Having spent more than five years, my son and I have recently completed a thorough rebuild of this Hammond Novachord Synthesizer. This legendary instrument is now fully functional as original. It looks as good and performs as well as it did the day it left the factory in 1940, and is considerably more reliable, with all of its capacitors and resistors replaced, and the original cotton-covered wiring replaced with Teflon insulated, silver-tinned copper wire. All 163 vacuum tubes test as new or nearly new. The pedals have been replated in polished nickel, and the original Bakelite and Plaskon keys are smooth and shiny.

The Novachord is considered to be the first commercially available polyphonic synthesizer, and was used extensively in science fiction and horror movie soundtracks of the 1940's and 1950's, as well as radio theatre and nightclubs around the country.

To our knowledge, there are only five Novachords that exist in this condition.

This rare instrument is currently located at Sweetwater Sound Studios in Fort Wayne, Indiana."

How much?

$96,000.00 listed here.

CLICK FOR MORE »

New ASM HydraSynth 8 Voice Digital WaveMorphing Hardware Synthesizers - First Demos & Details

Update: Playlist added above. You can use the player controls to skip around.
Update2: New pics and product description added below.
Update3: Official press release with higher res pics starting with the desktop added below.

Playlist:

1. ASM Hydrasynth Keyboard Preset Sounds - Perfect Circuit - interview here
[Note Supporters of MATRIXSYNTH get %10 off at Perfect Circuit! See the support page for details. Thank you to all who support the site!]
2. ASM HydraSynth Overview Demo arp and Poly Touch Pads - Ken Flux Pierce Fluxwithit
3. HYDRASYNTH FIRST IMPRESSIONS – This is an INTENSE synthesizer - BoBeats (Patreon)
4. New Polysynth - HYDRASYNTH - From ASM - Sonic LAB First Look - sonicstate
5. Hydrasynth: Review, detailed tutorial // Keyboard vs Desktop // Polyphonic Aftertouch - leploop
6. Hydrasynth Review - BBoyTechReport.com
7. Welcome the ASM HydraSynth! Digital Wavemorphing Synthesizer - Ken Flux Pierce Fluxwithit
8. ASM HydraSynth Exploring Oscillators and Mutants - Ken Flux Pierce Fluxwithit
9. ASM Hydrasynth Sounds Demo 🎹 - Sweetwater
10. ASM Hydrasynth Synthesizer Deep Dive 🎹 - Sweetwater

ASM stands for Ashun Sound Machines, not to be mixed with the Elby Designs ASM2 & ASM STRAT 1.

Screen grab of the desktop version.

via Fluxwithit

"Over the past year or so I was fortunate enough to work on this project. Eventually it became one of the most interesting synthesizers I have seen hit the market in ages. What makes the ASM HydraSynth so special? let’s start with a run down of the bullet points first.

Hydrasynth is an 8 voice digital wavemorphing synthesizer.

8 voices3 oscillators: 219 waveforms, custom wavetables with wavelist/wavescan function, ring mod, 3 noise colors.4 custom “mutator” sections each with 7 effects FM-lin,wavestack,PWM,PWM squeeze, PWM-ASM,Sync,Harmonic sweep. oscillators can be stereo panned.

2 Simultaneous filters that can be arranged in parallel or series. Filter 1 has 11 filter models including traditional Moog style 12 and 24db ladder filters, q compensated 12 and 24db ladder filters ala MatrixBrute, 18db slope LP,BP,HP,filters based on the Threeler eurorack filter, MS20 style HP and LP filters,LPG filter and a Vowel filterOscillators can blend into filters at varying amounts, Filter 2 is a SEM style multimode filter with morph control LP-BP-HP.dedicated analog 270 degree pots for cutoff, resonance and Drive/Morph.

5 6-stage DAHDSR envelopes with BPM sync allowing you to sync the slope of each stage to the beat. Looping with definable number of repeats

5 LFO each with 10 waveforms + noise, delay, fade in/out, and phase. multiple trigger modes , step mode with pattern length.

32 point mod matrix with 28 sources and 188 destinations .

8 macros each with scribble strip and up to 8 destinations each. Macro buttons also allow for quick value changes.

CLICK FOR MORE »

New Features in NI Kontakt 4 Sampler, Part 1 of 2 - Sweetwater

YouTube via SweetwaterSound
"Check out the new features in Kontakt 4 sampler in this 2-part video with Native Instruments' Josh Fielstra. In this first video, you'll get an in-depth look at the new Performance View."

New Features in NI Kontakt 4 Sampler, Part 2 of 2 - Sweetwater

Sweetwater iOS Update - Vol. 26, FunkBox Drum Machine

Published on Jan 7, 2013
http://www.sweetwater.com/shop/ios/apps.php

"Check out the Funkbox drum machine app! Mitch Gallagher also shows how you can use the BassLine app along with Funkbox. Enjoy, then get the apps at the link above!"

iTunes:
FunkBox Drum Machine - Synthetic Bits, LLC
iOS Devices on eBay - Daily Tech Deals

Roland Boutique Synths Overview Demo Video

Published on Oct 1, 2015 SweetwaterSound

Disclaimer: Sweetwater is not a sponsor of MATRIXSYNTH. If you are going to pick up a new Roland Boutique synth be sure to check with the dealers on the right. They help support the site and I do my best to help support them. Sweetwater gets some free exposure curtesy of Roland.

http://www.rolandus.com/promos/roland_boutique/

"Mitch Gallagher gives an overview of Roland's Boutique Series synthesizers: the JP-08, JU-06, and JX-03, along with the optional K-25m keyboard controller and module dock. These synth modules bring back classic Roland synth designs for a new generation of musicians, using their Analog Circuit Behavior modeling to re-create their original analog character.

All of these synth modules give you the sound and feel of working with the original synths, plus some new enhancements. The JP-08 is based on the Jupiter-8 synthesizer, and expands on the original with extra waveforms and an extended VCO range. The JU-06, based on the Juno-106, adds a variable highpass filter and a faster LFO. And the JX-03, modeled after the JX-3P, adds extra waveforms for the LFO and DCOs, as well as an extended DCO range.

These synth modules offer tons of hands-on control, built-in sequencers, and true portability thanks to battery operation and a built-in mini speaker."

Moog Model 15 App Review by Sweetwater

Published on May 9, 2016 SweetwaterSound

"Mitch Gallagher presents the Moog Model 15 synthesizer app with help from Sweetwater's synth guru, Daniel Fisher. Based on Moog's classic Model 15 modular synthesizer, this synth app offers deep sound design potential and iconic Moog character."

iTunes: Model 15 - Moog Music Inc.

New Roland Driftbox-R - Reon Driftbox Re-Branded with Updates

via Sweetwater:

"The Roland DriftBox-R Limited is an updated version of the original Reon DriftBox in AIRA green livery. Originally commissioned by Roland to demonstrate the the SBX-1 Sync Box, the DriftBox-R Limited is a cool analog synth module in its own right. You get two oscillators, a great-sounding filter, and an envelope generator, as well as CV/gate I/O that turns this little tabletop unit semi-modular. You can use it by itself and trigger its envelope with the onboard momentary button - or combine it with other hardware and the possibilities are endless. Paired with a CV-equipped keyboard or sequencer, it's a great source for soaring leads and massive bass lines. It's available in very small numbers - only 80 for North America, so better get your Roland DriftBox-R from Sweetwater today!

Roland Driftbox-R Limited Analog Monosynth Module Features at a Glance:
Updated version of the original Reon DriftBox
A wide range of functions in a small desktop box
Two VCOs, a great-sounding filter, and an envelope generator
CV/gate I/O for semi-modular flexibility
Use it alone, triggering its envelope with the onboard momentary button
Combine it with other hardware for endless possibilities"

CLICK FOR MORE »

Pigtronix Mothership Guitar Synth CV Controls Korg MS-20 Mini Analog Synthesizer

Published on Oct 14, 2013 Pigtronix·138 videos

"Official demo for the Pigtronix 'Mothership CV' controlling the KORG MS-20 Mini analog synth to make a monster guitar synth.

CV (Hz/Volt) and Gate (S-trig) outputs have been added to the Mothership to accomplish the instantaneous, analog control over the Korg.

This custom shop version of the Mothership comes factory-calibrated to the KORG MS-20 Mini and is available exclusively from Sweetwater here:

http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/MothershipCV

Gear Used:

Schecter Avenger SLS
Pigtronix Mothership
KORG MS-20 Mini
Ampeg SVT II (DI)
UA 610 Preamp
AVID ProTools 9"

Hammond Novachord with Sweetwater's Daniel Fisher

Published on Jan 10, 2017 SweetwaterSound

"Daniel Fisher, Sweetwater’s full-time synth fanatic, gives an in-depth tour of the Hammond Novachord, which is widely regarded as the father of the modern polyphonic synthesizer. It debuted at the 1939 World’ Fair and featured 72-note polyphony, oscillators, filters, envelopes, and frequency modulation, which were used to craft its organic and otherworldly sounds.

After a close look at all of the Novachord’s parameters and internal components, Daniel gives an impromptu performance while sweeping through all of the parameters’ values. Then, as an example of what it would sound like in modern times, Fisher plays the Novachord through an Eventide H9 Multi-Effects Processor.

Only five fully restored Novachords are known to exist today.

Joseph Fill and his son, Justin, poured more than 2,000 hours of work restoring this 1941 Hammond Novachord. They replaced countless components, rewired all the connections, and then cleaned and polished the internal and external surfaces by hand.

Please feel free to contact Joe Fill if you wish to inquire about purchasing this beautifully restored piece of musical instrument history: hangarjoe@sbcglobal.net"

See the Novachord label below for more.

Akai MPX8 Sample Pad Controller Overview - Sweetwater at Winter NAMM 2013

Published on Jan 29, 2013 SweetwaterSound·1,210 videos

"Drew Hollis from Akai Professional presents the sweet MPX8 sample controller at Winter NAMM 2013 - http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/MPX8

Simplicity is the key to the Akai Professional MPX8 SD sample pad controller. Sporting eight velocity-sensitive and pressure-sensitive pads, the MPX8 can trigger samples and sounds loaded on standard SD card. An included drag-and-drop sample editor makes it easy to manage your sounds, and there's a massive library of built-in sounds included.

Akai Professional MPX8 SD Sample Pad Controller Features:

• 8 x velocity-sensitive and pressure-sensitive pads
• Add sound samples via standard SD card or use the extensive built-in library
• Tune, add reverb, save sample sets for easy recall
• USB MIDI plus standard MIDI inputs and outputs
• Drag-and-drop sample editor for Mac and PC included"

iOS Update - Vol. 48, Thor Synthesizer App and Novation Launchkey Power Tip

Published on Jul 29, 2013 SweetwaterSound·1,567 videos

"Check out the Propellerhead Thor synthesizer and other music-related apps right here: http://www.sweetwater.com/shop/ios/ap...
And learn more about the Novation Launchkey MIDI controller used in this video here: http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detai...

Mitch takes a look at the Thor polyphonic synthesizer app by Propellerhead. It's the same synth as found in their Reason DAW software - you can even load patches you created on this app into Thor in your Reason software.

After that, Mitch circles back to a product he's presented in the past, the Novation Launchkey. Mitch explains how to set up the camera connection kit so that your iPad can provide power to the Launchkey keyboard.

Enjoy the video, learn more about the apps and controllers at the links above!"

iTunes:
Thor Polysonic Synthesizer - Propellerhead Software AB
Novation Launchkey - Novation

Dave Smith Instruments Prophet '12 Synthesizer Demo - Sweetwater at Winter NAMM 2013

Published on Jan 26, 2013 SweetwaterSound·1,195 videos

"Dave Smith himself demonstrates the awesome Prophet '12 at Winter NAMM 2013 - http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/Prophet12/

Dave Smith, the legendary synth designer, unveiled the Prophet 12. This 61-key analog beast gives you 12 voices - each featuring four oscillators, a sub-oscillator, resonant analog low- and high-pass filters, and analog VCAs. And to shape and effect all this sonic firepower, the Prophet 12 gives you enough real-time onboard controls to pilot a space shuttle.

Dave Smith Instruments Prophet 12 Polyphonic Analog Synthesizer Features:

• 12 voices, each with four oscillators, sub-oscillator, low- and high-pass filters, and analog VCAs
• Character section adds a variety of wave shaping and sound sculpting options
• Tuned feedback path, a four-tap stereo delay per voice, expanded arpeggiator functionality
• Deep modulation capabilities, bi-timbral operation
• LFOs, delay, and arpeggiator can all be synced"

Moog Emerson Modular Synthesizer System Review

Published on Jul 20, 2017 SweetwaterSound

"Daniel Fisher, Sweetwater’s maven of modular madness, gives a quick run-through of the Emerson Moog Modular synthesizer. Sweetwater is proud to be chosen to sell the final unit (third of three) that Moog Music will build of this historic synthesizer.

Because it was built using only ’60s-era technology and techniques, the Emerson Moog Modular doesn’t ring out with crystal-clear digital perfection. Subtle distortions and noise of every kind assault every note, and that is the secret of the clone’s success."

Casio XW-P1 Performance Synthesizer Demo

Casio XW-P1 Performance Synthesizer Demo - Sweetwater Sound

YouTube Uploaded by SweetwaterSound on Feb 28, 2012

"Mike Martin from Casio visited Sweetwater Sound to give us a deep overview of the XW-P1 Performance Synthesizer. Mike shows off a lot of sounds, the ability to mix oscillators on the fly, and some awesome sequencing and arpeggiation capabilities. Enjoy the demo, then learn even more about the Casio XW-P1 Performance Synthesizer right here: http://bit.ly/sw_XWP1"

Don't miss my NAMM demo post here:
NAMM 2012 Video of Mike Martin & the Casio XW-P1 Including Deeper Editing

Don't miss the red Update note on real-time editing of the filter.

Sequential Trigon-6 Sonic Deep Dive – Daniel Fisher

video upload by Sweetwater

Be sure to see the dealers on the right for availability.

"Nearly 50 years of heritage design and analog expertise have been distilled into the superlative circuitry of Sequential’s groundbreaking new polyphonic 6-voice synthesizer: the Trigon-6. Historic synthesis is masterfully blended with modern sonic possibilities to create a forward-looking instrument that won’t compromise on vintage character. Join Sweetwater’s premier synthesist, Daniel Fisher, to explore this polyphonic powerhouse. Check it out!"

0:00 – Intro
1:04 – Trigon-6 Oscillators
5:17 – Trigon-6 Noise Source
5:34 – OSC 3 as Modulator
8:51 – Trigon-6 Oscillator Sync
10:28 – Trigon-6 Vintage Knob
11:18 – Pan Spread
12:03 – Program Volume
12:18 – Pitch Wheel Range
12:37 – Trigon-6 Key Modes
13:10 – Trigon-6 Glide
15:17 – Hold Button
15:49 – Trigon-6 LFO
18:54 – Trigon-6 Polymod
20:17 – Trigon-6 Aftertouch
21:49 – Trigon-6 Filter
28:39 – Trigon-6 Amp Envelope
29:21 – Feedback, Drive, and Distortion
33:02 – Trigon-6 Arpeggiator
35:06 – Trigon-6 Sequencer
36:08 – Trigon-6 Effects
42:13 – Thanks for Watching!

Akai SynthStation 49 Overview by Sweetwater

iOS Update Vol. 11 - Sweetwater Sound

YouTube Published on Sep 10, 2012 by SweetwaterSound

"Mitch Gallagher demonstrates the Akai Professional SynthStation 49 keyboard controller for your iOS device or your computer. It comes with the Akai SynthStation app, and even has a handy iPad holder on the keyboard itself.

Enjoy the demo, then learn more about the Akai SynthStation Series right here: http://bit.ly/sw_SynthStations"

SynthStations on eBay
iPads on eBay

Waldorf Kyra Synthesizer Demo & Sounds with Daniel Fisher 🎹

Published on Oct 14, 2019 Sweetwater

"Is the Waldorf Kyra truly an "alias-free" virtual analog synthesizer? Join Sweetwater's synth savant Daniel Fisher for this in-depth overview and sonic exploration. Sounds begin at 6:26!"

Remember to support the shops with banners on the right of the site. Along with individual supporters of the site, they help make the site possible.

Sequential Joins the Focusrite Team Interview with Dave Smith & Tim Carroll

video by Sweetwater Sweetwater

"Sequential has joined the Focusrite team! Mitch Gallagher is joined by Sequential founder Dave Smith and Focusrite CEO Tim Carroll to talk about the acquisition."

0:00​ - Intro
0:34​ - How Did this Partnership Form?
5:16​ - What Does the Future Hold?
9:45​ - Any New Products You Can Tease for Us?
12:20​ - Thanks for Watching!

Buchla Easel Command Modular Synthesizer | Multi-tracked Demo and Walkthrough

video upload by Sweetwater

Interesting seeing the Buchla used in this context. Be sure to check with dealers on the right for availability as well.

"In this video, Sweetwater‘s Jake Jenkins runs the Buchla Easel Command through its paces, which takes the 208c module and places it into an updated desktop synth featuring full MIDI/DAW compatibility. As a result, it mixes the exploratory ethos of Buchla design with the streamlined form factor of a desktop synth that doesn‘t depend on the complexities and space of a whole modular system. The Easel Command allows for tonal operation well beyond the limitations of 12-tone equal temperament, with a near-unlimited number of possibilities through control voltage regulation of nearly all parameters. This analog, mono synth uses a simple pair of oscillators, additive FM signals, and wave shaping to construct its base sounds, molded and manipulated into an infinite pantheon of sonic possibility."