Percussa Intros Synthor Modular Synthesis System (Knobcon 2016)

Published on Oct 3, 2016 Synthtopia

https://www.percussa.com

"At Knobcon 2016, Synthtopia talked with Percussa's Bert Schiettecatte, who gave us an overview of their new Synthor Modular Synthesis System.

The Synthor system is built around the idea of tangible computing - where physical objects are used to represent and control virtual objects within software applications.

With Synthor, the Percussa AudioCubes act as wireless controllers that let you create synth patches, while the Remote lets you control things like patch selection and settings for virtual modules.

This video is part of Synthtopia's Knobcon 2016 coverage:

http://www.synthtopia.com/content/tag..."

Leisuresonic SynthTopia Spectral Synthesizer for iPad Demos

PlanetMaster by Leisuresonic
"SynthTopia Leisuresonic electronic synth spectral iPad
Performed live with SynthTopia, the spectral synthesizer for iPad. PlanetMaster is considered moderately accessible to most listeners. Created with pythagorean tuning."

EmphaticSurnames by Leisuresonic
"Performed live with SynthTopia, the spectral synthesizer for iPad. EmphaticSurnames is considered quite accessible to most listeners."

Leisuresonic on iTunes:


http://leisuresonic.com/
http://twitter.com/Leisuresonic

Artisan Electronic Instruments at Knobcon 2016

Published on Oct 2, 2016 Synthtopia

"At Knobcon 2016, Synthtopia talked with designer Michael Bachman about his Ottava analog synthesizer and neuroRack Eurorack synthesizer modules.

The Ottava Desktop Analog Performance Synthesizer is a two-oscillator monophonic synthesizer, with a 4-pole analog low-pass ladder filter, 4 LFO's and 4 EG's and patch storage.

The Ottava was designed with modular construction, so that the synth can easily be customized. The boards that make up the core of the Ottava can also be used in custom synth designs and Bachman even has plans for using them to build a polyphonic analog synth.

The neuroRack modules are Eurorack designs with some unique features, including per-module patch storage and system-wide patch storage.

This video is part of Synthtopia's Knobcon 2016 coverage:

http://www.synthtopia.com/content/tag..."

Roland TR-8S Masterclass

Published on Jun 16, 2019 Synthtopia

"This video captures a Roland TR-8S drum machine masterclass, presented by Roland's Peter Brown at the 2019 Brooklyn Synth Expo.

In the video, Brown goes beyond traditional 808/909 style programming and digs into some of the more advanced capabilities of the TR-8S, including using custom samples, modulation sequencing, effects sequencing and polyrhythms.

From Synthtopia's coverage of the Brooklyn Synth Expo:

http://www.synthtopia.com/content/tag..."

Using MPE With The Sensel Morph & Buchla Thunder Overlay

Published on Jun 15, 2019 Synthtopia

"At the 2019 Brooklyn Synth Expo, Sensel's David Abravanel presented an overview and demo of using the Sensel Morph controller with the Buchla Thunder Overlay as an MPE controller.

The Thunder Overlay is a joint project of Sensel & Buchla USA, and is inspired by Don Buchla's classic Thunder controller.

From Synthtopia's coverage of the Brooklyn Synth Expo:

http://www.synthtopia.com/content/tag..."

Gamechanger Audio Motor Synth Sneak Preview

Published on Jun 15, 2019 Synthtopia

"At the 2019 Brooklyn Synth Expo, Gamechanger Audio’s Ilya Krumins explained the details of the Motor Synth and gave an in-depth demo of how it works.

The Motor Synth is a unique synth design that uses drone engines as oscillators. It's being funded via a crowdfunding project on Indiegogo (https://www.indiegogo.com/projects/mo...), which has already raised 5 times their project goal.

From Synthtopia's coverage of the Brooklyn Synth Expo:

http://www.synthtopia.com/content/tag..."

If you are interested in mechanical based electronic instruments be sure to check out the mechanical instruments label here. Both Gieskes & Bastl have been known to dabble in mechanical based designs. Check out Gieskes Reverse DC Motor (eurorack module), Motor Keys Tape from 2009, and Bastl's servo based modules.

ROLI Instruments & Expressive Performance With MPE

Published on Jun 14, 2019 Synthtopia

"At the 2019 Brooklyn Synth Expo, ROLI’s Ruben Dax gave a presentation on MPE (MIDI Polyphonic Expression) - a new standard for expressive musical performance.

From Synthtopia's coverage of the Brooklyn Synth Expo:

http://www.synthtopia.com/content/tag..."

Novation Summit Synthesizer Hands-On Demo

Published on May 12, 2019 Synthtopia

"Here's a hands-on demo of the Novation Summit – a new flagship synthesizer that packs two of their Peak synthesizers into a knob-filled keyboard.

From Synthtopia's Superbooth 2019 Coverage:
https://www.synthtopia.com/content/ta..."

New Minimoog Model D in the Works? Spotted at Moogfest!

Minimoog Model D Pilot Production

Published on May 19, 2016 Moog Music Inc

Update5: We now have confirmation with an official video from Moog Music.

"After more than 30 years, the Minimoog Model D returns with a pilot-production run at Moogfest 2016 in Durham, NC. Handcrafted in the Moog Pop-Up Factory, the pilot-production units built during the festival will only be available for purchase on-site in the Moog Store by Guitar Center."

Update6: and a video from Moogfest:

Moog Reintroduces The Minimoog Model D - Moogfest Video

Published on May 19, 2016 Synthtopia

"At Mioogfest 2016, Moog Music has reintroduced the classic Minimoog Model D.

We talked with Moog's Nick Montoya about the new Minimoog Model D, what's changed and what they've kept the same.

They've gone to great lengths to recreate the iconic Minimoog sound - but also added a new LFO, a better keyboard and support for additional control voltage options."

Inside The New Minimoog Model D

Published on May 22, 2016 Synthtopia

"At Moogfest 2016, Moog reintroduced the classic Minimoog Model D.

We talked with Moog's Nick Montoya, gave us a tour of the inside of the new Minimoog Model D, and explained some of the lengths they went to to nail the original Minimoog sound, and also what they changed to make the new Minimoog more reliable."

How To Build A New Minimoog Model D Synthesizer

Published on May 26, 2016 Synthtopia

"At Moogfest 2016, Moog reintroduced the classic Minimoog Model D synthesizer.

They also had a 'pop-up factory' onsite at the event. Basically, they moved their production line to Durham for the week and were assembling the new Minimoog's at the festival.

We talked with Moog's TJ Mills, who gave us a tour of their assembly process.

They start from a collection of individual parts and pre-assembled components from suppliers. The circuit boards, for example, are supplied pre-populated, using a variety of new and 'new old stock' parts. And the metal components are supplied reshaped and drilled to Moog's specifications.

In the video, TJ discusses what gets done at each stage of their assembly process, and how they calibrate and test the synthesizer once it is assembled."


Original post:

This one in via Soviet Space Child, via @Peff

I heard a rumor that it might have been shown at the Musikmesse, but there were no images at the time. This looks a bit more legit, unless of course that's just a vintage Model D being refurbished for Moogfest. :)

Update: via the Herald Sun: "A Moog Pop-Up Factory, featuring the interactive Global Synthesizer Project and assembly of Minimoog Model D synthesizers, opens in the Power Plant Gallery of the American Tobacco District."

Note the plural in "assembly of Minimoog Model D synthesizers". These are real and new. Soviet Space Child also noticed the three MINI jacks on back and the lack of an S-Trig jack on the left.

Update2: Another pic in via Soviet Space Child below. This one shows a dedicated LFO knob in the mod wheel section.

Update3: One more image of the parts spread out below and a quick video test of one being played by Gene Stopp.

Update4: Suggested price is $3499

CLICK FOR MORE »

Gamechanger Audio Motor Synth Makes Music Using Drone Engines

Published on May 12, 2019 Synthtopia

"At Superbooth 2019, Gamechanger Audio gave us a demo of their upcoming Motor Synth - one of the most unique synthesizers we've ever seen.

From Synthtopia's Superbooth 2019 Coverage:
https://www.synthtopia.com/content/ta..."

Korg ARP Odyssey Module Overview & Demo

Published on Oct 3, 2016 Synthtopia

"At Knobcon 2016, we talked with Korg product specialist Nick Kwas about the new Korg ARP Odyssey Module.

When the KARP Odyssey keyboard was introduced, a lot of readers said that they had enough keyboards - what they just wanted a Odyssey synth module. Korg seems to have been listening, because that's exactly what they've introduced.

In the video, Kwas gives us an overview and demo of the Korg ARP Odyssey Module.

This video is part of Synthtopia's Knobcon 2016 coverage:

http://www.synthtopia.com/content/tag..."

Grove Audio Synth Modules At Knobcon V

Published on Oct 7, 2016 Synthtopia

"At Knobcon 2016, we talked with John Burdick of Grove Audio, who makes a range of 5U and Eurorack synth modules.

This video is part of Synthtopia's Knobcon 2016 coverage:

http://www.synthtopia.com/content/tag..."

Novation's 'Synth Mountain' At Superbooth 2019

Published on May 13, 2019 Synthtopia

"At Superbooth 2019, we talked with Novation's Chris Calcutt (Calc), who showed us their 'Synth Mountain' and demonstrated how they were playing it all with the company's SL MkIII keyboard controller.

From Synthtopia's Superbooth 2019 Coverage:
https://www.synthtopia.com/content/ta..."

Korg Volca Nubass Vacuum Tube Synthesizer At Superbooth

Published on May 12, 2019 Synthtopia

"At Superbooth 2019, Korg introduced the Volca NuBass synthesizer.

Here's an overview and demo of the new acid bass synth.

From Synthtopia's Superbooth 2019 Coverage:
https://www.synthtopia.com/content/ta..."

Superbooth 2018 - Behringer Clones Pro-One, 808, ARP Odyssey & More

Published on May 7, 2018 Synthtopia

"At Superbooth 2018, Behringer was displaying a wide range of engineering prototypes of clones of classic electronic music gear.

We talked with Rob Belcham, Senior Principal Systems Engineer at Music Group, and got a quick overview of what Behringer had on display.

Many of the synths displayed are being developed by a team in China and are prototypes, so the UK-based engineers that we talked to were seeing them for the first time at Superbooth.

Belcham, however, is supervising the development of the RD-808, a clone of the classic Roland TR-808 drum machine, so he was able to give us a lot more insight into its design and development."

Superbooth 2018 - Behringer Pro-One Synthesizer

Published on May 7, 2018 Synthtopia

"At Superbooth 2018, Behringer was displaying a wide range of engineering prototypes of clones of classic electronic music gear.

We talked with Erik Steckmann - Music Tribe Engineer, Product Management - and he gave us an overview of the Behringer Pro-One, and some insight into its development.

Note: Steckmann said that the Pro-One, along with most of the other new gear on display, was an engineering prototype and that the device's sound, functionality, etc. could change.

An official introduction - with specs, release date, etc - is expected to come later this year."

John Burdick of Grove Audio has Passed Away

Some sad news in via John L Rice.

We have lost John Burdick of Grove Audio.

via legacy.com

John "Jack" Charles Burdick

Dec. 1, 1948 - March 22, 2023

RACINE - John "Jack" Charles Burdick, 74, passed away on March 22, 2023, at his residence.

Jack was born on December 1, 1948, in Racine to Milton and Frances (nee: Ferguson). After serving in the United States Army, he earned his BA in Journalism from the University of Wisconsin. Jack was a member of the Racine Astronomical Society. He owned and operated Grove Audio in Cottage Grove. In his free time, Jack enjoyed astronomy, computer technology, photography, and music - he worked as a roadie for Jackson Browne and Chick Corea.

He is survived by his brother, Paul (Jeni) Burdick; sisters: Carol (Thomas) Rudey and Susan (Michael) Lambert; nephews: David (Casey) Rudey and Scott Rudey; aunt and uncle, John and Donna Ferguson; and other cousins, family members, and friends.

Jack is preceded in death by his parents, Milton and Frances Burdick.

A public celebration of life will be held in the summer.

In lieu of flowers, donations should be sent to the Modine-Benstead Observatory in care of the Racine Astronomical Society.

Some pics of Grove Audio at Knobcon last year via their last post on Facebook on September 21, 2022 with the following:

"Knobcon Ten was a great event, once again. Thanks to all the people who made it the largest show in Knobcon history. Several friends dropped by the Grove Audio booth to see what we have new for this year. We emphasized new modules for 5U as part of a renewed effort to build the popular format. This effort also includes accessories to support new systems such as power supplies, cables, and cabinet options."


And a video with John from Synthtopia at Knobcon in 2018:

Grove Audio Expands Its 5U & Eurorack Modular Lines
video upload by Synthtopia

"At Knobcon 2018, we talked with John Burdick of Grove Audio, who makes a range of MOTM-compatible, Dotcom-compatible and Eurorack synth modules."

See teh Grove Audio label for additional posts.

Omnisphere 2.5 Hardware Integration Demo At Knobcon 2018

Published on Sep 10, 2018 Synthtopia

"At Knobcon 2018, we talked with Spectrasonics product specialist Eddie Spinelli, who gave us a hands-on demo of hardware integration in Omnisphere 2.5.

Omnisphere 2.5 was originally introduced by founder Eric Persing at Superbooth, but was released a few weeks ago. Here's an in-depth look with Persing at Superbooth:"

Superbooth 2018 Omnisphere 2.5 Hands-On Demo

Published on May 4, 2018 Synthtopia

"At Superbooth 2018, we talked with Spectrasonics head Eric Persing about Omnisphere 2.5, a free update that introduces some impressive new features."

Art + Music + Technology Interview with Tom Oberheim

via Art + Music + Technology

"NOTE: This podcast is presented as a collaboration with Synthtopia.com for the presentation of people working with and creating expressive MIDI controllers. You can listen to the podcast here, on the synthtopia website (in an embedded player) or on iTunes. But you can also read the article as well as search for information by viewing the transcription available here.

In this first podcast in our series on Synth Designers, we talk to one of the people that was at the forefront of synth design - so much so, that his original synth design is still at the heart of his work! Tom Oberheim and the Synthesizer Expander Module (or SEM) is widely known for its rich, smooth and musical sound, and Tom's work has been featured on recordings by almost anyone that has used a synthesizer.

In our chat, Tom talks about how he got started in both electronics and music, and how he stumbled upon musical electronics. We also talk about how the SEM has been able to endure despite all the changes in backing technology, and how it differs from most of the synths that were its contemporaries. It's also interesting to hear about how the resurgence of analog culture and the emergence of DJ/producer culture caught him by (pleasant) surprise, and have set the stage for his future work.

You can see what he is up to by checking out his site: http://tomoberheim.com/, or just by talking to anyone that is a synth fanatic - they (or you...) will know his work well.

Enjoy!"

Jaguar I-Pace to Feature Synthesized Sounds by Richard Devine and the Yamaha Montage

Richard Devine On Jaguar I-Pace Sound Design & His New Album, Sort\Lave

Published on Sep 20, 2018 Synthtopia

The Jaguar I-Pace will feature synthesized sounds by Richard Devine. Above is a video from Knobcon and below you can hear a demo of the acceleration. On a related note, don't miss Roland's Single Knob Synth for Cars from 2015, and don't miss the Synth Cars label.

"At a special event on Sept 14th, Yamaha introduced their new MODX line of synth keyboards.

At the event, we talked with synthesist and sound designer Richard Devine about his recent work, including sound design for the Jaguar I-Pace - their first electric car - and his upcoming album, Sort\Lave.

Sort\Lave on Bandcamp:
https://richarddevine.bandcamp.com/al..."

Richard Devine sounds for Jaguar I-PACE

Published on Sep 20, 2018 Synthtopia

Yamaha MODX Synthesizer In-Depth Demo & Sound Design With Richard Devine

Published on Sep 16, 2018 Synthtopia

"At a special event on Sept 14th, Yamaha introduced their new MODX line of synth keyboards - a more affordable version of their Montage synthesizer.

At the event, we talked with Yamaha's Blake Angelos, who gave us an in-depth look at the new MODX, explained how it compares to the Yamaha Montage and demonstrated how it sounds."

Yamaha MODX Sound Design With Richard Devine

Published on Sep 16, 2018 Synthtopia

"At a special event on Sept 14th, Yamaha introduced their new MODX line of synth keyboards - a more affordable version of their Montage synthesizer.

At the event, Richard Devine demonstrated how he's using a MODX6 with a Eurorack modular system, and sequencing them all with a Polyend SEQ step sequencer.

He also talked about how he uses FM synthesis, and the Montage, in his sound design work."