Memento turns audio memory into an instrument // Review & tutorial of Enjoy Lab's Memento

video upload by loopop

TIMELINE: 0:00 Intro 1:55 Overview 5:00 Controls 8:45 Web App 9:30 Connections 11:00 Multi-head 13:00 Texture FX 13:40 DPD 14:15 Granular 16:20 Vinyl 17:00 Looper 17:55 Delay 18:50 Filter 19:25 Reverb 20:40 Modulation 21:30 MPE 22:45 Pros & cons 26:00 DPD jam 26:45 M. Head jam 28:00 Reverb jam 29:05 Vocal scratch

Meet The New FLpad: the FL Studio grid controller range

video upload by Novation and FL Studio

Everything you need to know about the NEW FLpad

video upload by Novation and FL Studio

Novation FLpad vs FL Key 2 vs Akai Fire: Which is better for FL Studio? // Review & Tutorial

video upload by loopop

TIMELINE: 0:00 Intro 1:00 Overview 3:20 Sequencer 4:00 Notes 4:55 Patterns 5:35 Channel Rack 6:40 Mixer 7:10 Graph Edit 9:15 Custom Modes 10:40 Plugin Control 12:00 Performance 13:00 Pros & cons 14:05 FLkey 2 15:15 Akai Fire 16:30 Outro

"Explore our full FL range - https://novationmusic.com/fl?utm_sour..."



"Introducing the new FLpad, co-developed with Image-Line. FLpad Mini and FLpad were created for fast, hands-on beatmaking in FL Studio’s Channel Rack.

Teaming up with Image-Line once again, our latest collaboration brings you our very first grid controller made specifically for FL Studio.

Use the 64 velocity-sensitive, RGB-backlit pads to play or step-sequence drums and melodic parts, slice samples, create and edit Patterns, and more. Sequence up to four instruments at once, get creative with drums and melodic parts, and arrange your ideas.

From the user interface to the firmware and DAW scripts, FLpad has been designed with FL Studio in mind and shaped by our ongoing collaboration with Image-Line and features an array of dedicated controls for building tracks with Patterns, mode switching, transport control, undo/redo, and more.

Plus, with Novation Components, you can easily create custom layouts for specific FL Studio workflows or for working with other software and hardware."

Elektron Outbox 8 — Information from Sweden

video upload by Elektron

"Outbox 8 adds eight outputs for configurable audio and CV, meaning you can turn your compatible Elektron machine into an octopus of connectivity. Add external effects. Separate your tracks out to a mixer or wherever. Control and sequence your modular gear or any other CV-equipped devices. And though Outbox 8 is predominantly made with your Elektron units in mind, it can do the same with a bunch more class-compliant gear too. Break out your sound and control, whatever the moment calls for."

This is Outbox 8

video upload by Elektron

ELEKTRON OUTBOX8 IS HERE!!! The Power of Extra Outputs & CV

video upload by Catenation

What Elektron Outbox 8 does, and not just for Elektron Gear // Review & tutorial

video upload by loopop

"Eight-channel audio/CV breakout box

Outbox 8 is a versatile eight-channel audio/CV breakout box and USB host/device designed to expand your connectivity, with creative possibilities to boot. It adds eight fully configurable physical outputs to a compatible connected device, letting you send audio and CV in any combination its capabilities allow. Route your sound and control wherever the moment calls for.

Send audio

Outbox 8 enables you to route individual tracks for external processing, mixing, or performance – creating a flexible bridge between your Elektron workflow and the wider world of sound and control.

MIDI to CV

CLICK FOR MORE »

Haken Slim 21 Continuum // The World’s Most Advanced Synth, Now Smaller & Cheaper

video upload by loopop

"Get the ideas, tips and insights from this video and all my others in my ever-expanding book of electronic music ideas, tips and tricks here: ► Patreon: / loopop"

TIMELINE: 0:00 Intro 2:00 Overview 3:30 Others 4:05 Controls 6:00 Presets 6:25 I/O 7:00 Resynthesis 8:30 Loris lite 10:50 Analysis 13:00 Motif lite 16:40 Ishango bone 18:05 Ratio 19:50 Jenny 20:15 Mobile overlay 21:05 Mobile app 22:45 Pros & cons 26:00 Outro

The NEW Eventide Gen 2 H9 Goes Cosmic... // Review, all 74 algorithms and tutorial

video upload by loopop

TIMELINE: 0:00 Intro 1:25 Overview 2:20 vs H9max 3:15 Only 1 fx? 4:20 Preset mode 5:20 Params mode 5:50 Mapping 7:00 Hot knob 7:30 Perform mode 8:00 Quick knobs 8:30 Foot switches 9:55 Hot switches 11:55 Saving psets 12:20 Select mode 13:35 Other modes 13:50 I/O 15:45 Control app 16:05 THE ALGORITHMS 16:25 Delays 18:20 Distortion 19:35 EQ 19:55 Granular 22:55 Harmonizer 26:40 Harmonizer+ 28:05 Looper 28:50 Modulation 30:40 Multi 31:05 Reverb 34:05 Synth 35:30 Misc 35:50 Pros & cons 37:00 vs H90 38:00 Outro

Akai Introduces MPC Key 37 G2 & MPC One G2

video uploads by Akai Professional

"Two ways to create. One MPC mindset. https://inmusic.to/5n8b3m62

The MPC One G2 and MPC Key 37 G2 introduce a new generation of standalone MPCs built around the same core idea: faster workflows and bigger creative potential. Both devices are powered by MPC3 and a new G2 eight-core processor, delivering significantly increased performance for larger sessions, faster load times, expanded track counts, and deeper plugin usage.

For beatmakers and producers who want the classic MPC feel in a compact desktop unit, MPC One G2 delivers next generation standalone power, MPC3’s modern track and arrangement tools, and USB-C hybrid connectivity—making it the most capable and future proof entry point into the MPC standalone ecosystem. https://inmusic.to/2p87e2nv

For producers and players who write on keys but want the speed and focus of an MPC workflow, MPC Key 37 G2 delivers next-generation standalone power, MPC3’s modern track and arrangement tools, and one-cable USB-C studio connectivity in a compact production keyboard that eliminates the laptop dependency. https://inmusic.to/yckvp6ef

Together, they represent two approaches to the same creative system. Whether you start on pads or keys both deliver a complete, modern MPC experience built to create, arrange, and finish music in one place, with the flexibility to plug into your studio setup when needed."

MPC One G2 vs MPC Key 37 G2 // & OS 3.9’s Wild New Oscillators // MPC G2 Review

video upload by loopop

TIMELINE: 0:00 Intro 1:35 Layout 2:00 Pads 2:25 Colorway 2:45 8 core CPU 3:15 RAM 3:35 Storage 4:05 I/O 4:25 USB C news 5:05 Pro pack? 5:40 OS 3.9 Features 6:00 Oscillators 6:20 Osc expansion 7:20 Osc overview 8:15 Osc in a pad 8:35 Osc layers 8:55 Osc types 10:55 FM/RM 12:50 Wavetables 13:30 User waves 13:50 Mod matrix 15:00 Arranger news 16:10 Insert clip row 16:30 Misc new 16:50 Pros & cons 19:30 G2 One vs 37 21:35 Outro

Pics

CLICK FOR MORE »

Arturia Introduces MiniLab 37 Universal MIDI Controller

video uploads by Arturia

Arturia Minilab 37 MIDI controller: How it competes, Buyer’s guide, pros, cons // Review & Tutorial

video upload by loopop

TIMELINE: 0:00 Intro 0:50 Overview 1:40 Keybed 2:15 Pitch & mod 2:35 Pads 3:50 Screen 4:15 Knobs 4:40 Faders 5:10 I/O 5:45 Build 6:05 Other buttons 6:25 Hold 6:55 Shift 7:25 Brains 7:45 Arp 8:55 Chord 9:25 Custom modes 9:55 Control center 11:00 Other smarts? 11:35 Analog lab 14:00 Effects 14:50 Ableton Live 17:20 Komplete Kontrol 20:00 Other Arturia 20:20 Pros & cons


Building on the much-loved MiniLab formula, MiniLab 37 expands Arturia’s best-selling compact controller with 12 additional slim keys, a refined layout, hands-on DAW control, creative performance features, and a complete software bundle. Designed for beginners, producers, performers, and musicians looking for a compact controller, it offers the freedom of two-handed play without sacrificing portability.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Iridium Desktop MK2 // Is Waldorf's Next Gen synth worth the upgrade? // Review & tutorial

video upload by loopop

TIMELINE: 0:00 Intro 1:30 Overview 2:20 “Oscillators” 3:30 Filters 4:00 Routing & FX 4:20 Modulation 4:45 Workflow 5:30 Build & IO 6:20 4 Timbres (MK2) 6:50 Round robin (MK2) 8:05 Seeds (MK2) 9:50 Parts seed 10:45 Wave seed 11:45 FM seed 12:35 RM seed 13:10 Dirt seed 13:30 Lucky 15:00 Note locks (MK2) 17:50 Drum synth? 19:30 Flavor (MK2) 20:20 4.0 features 20:40 Mutator 22:45 Poly Arp 24:15 Pros & cons 27:10 Outro

"I was asked how Iridium compares to Hydrasynth. Here are some pros and cons:

Hydrasynth pros:
Less expensive
Velocity and pressure sensitive pads (desktop) poly aftertouch and ribbon (keyboard version)
More filter and reverb models
Different wave mutators vs digiformer
Macro mode for the knobs
More flexible arpeggiator
Desktop version is smaller and lighter, and comes with rack ears

Hydrasynth cons:
Monotimbral, 8 voices vs Bi-timbral and 16 voices on Iridium
No resonator engine
No custom wavetables
Shorter wavetables (8 vs 128 waveforms in a table)
No sampler/granular playback engine
No engine like the kernel engines
Mono filters as opposed to stereo filters in Iridium
No proper sequencer vs two sequencers on Iridium"

The New FLkey is here: the go-to controller for FL Studio

video upload by Novation and FL Studio

"Check out the New FLkey range here - https://novationmusic.com/flkey?utm_s...

Read the news story - https://novationmusic.com/articles/in...

"Introducing the new FLkey, the go-to controller for FL Studio. This video gives you a quick glimpse of what our new FLkey can do and how it integrates with FL Studio.

The next generation of FLkey is here, and this new iteration has been upgraded and refined to offer an even more seamless connection to your essential beatmaking workflows.

The new hardware introduces an array of upgrades including better-feeling keys and pads, continuous encoders, and a crisp OLED display that shows essential information about your project. In addition, FLkey now features inspiring built-in creative tools in the form of Scale and Chord Modes and a powerful arpeggiator.

We’ve also deepened FLkey’s connection to many of the most important FL Studio tools, including the Channel Rack, Mixer, and plugins. We’ve also added useful new workflow shortcuts and upgraded the pads’ sequencing capabilities.

From bedroom to studio, there’s an FLkey for every setup with four sizes to choose from:
FLkey Mini 25
FLkey 37
FLkey 49
FLkey 61"

New FL Studio Keyboards - Novation FL KEY MK2 First Look and Review

video upload by In The Mix

"Today, Novation have released the FLkey 2 MIDI keyboards for FL Studio. It's a brilliant update to the incredibly popular FLkey range released in 2022. These new keyboards have now taken the top spot as the best MIDI device for FL Studio.

In this video, I share the important updates and give you a feel for the workflow and build quality of the new FLkey 2 in all sizes.

You can find out more about the FLkey MIDI keyboards and the included software here.
This is not an affiliate link: https://novationmusic.com/en/keys/flkey

This video is supported by Novation. I want to be transparent about this but I am genuinely glad to be showcasing the update to these keyboards. These MIDI keyboards are a brilliant pairing with FL Studio and are a joy to use.

0:00 - Intro
0:45 - 60 Second overview
1:45 - Build Quality
3:00 - Channel Rack Control
4:30 - Faders Controlling the Mixer
6:18 - My favourite features
9:40 - Don't make this mistake!

Prices (Rest of world excluding tax. Prices vary by location):

FLkey 2 MINI 25 = $119.99
FLkey 2 37 = $209.99
FLkey 2 49 = $249.99
FLkey 2 61 = $299.99

I don't mention the price during the video because it varies so much by location and I don't like to mislead anyone who expects a simple dollar conversion to their own currency!"

Novation's new FL KEY MK2 for FL Studio // Pros, cons & full tutorial for FLkey 2

video upload by loopop

TIMELINE: 0:00 Intro 0:45 Overview 1:45 25 v 37 v 49/61 3:15 I/O 3:45 Build & keys 4:45 What’s similar 5:45 MK2 vs MK1 6:50 Pad modes 7:10 Patterns 7:30 Channel Rack 8:10 Drum 8:45 Sequencer 10:05 User chords 10:50 Chord maps 12:10 Fixed chord 12:35 Arp 14:50 Encoder modes 15:10 Plugin 15:30 Mixer 15:50 Insert FX 16:05 Channel mixer 16:25 Transport 16:45 Faders 17:35 Fader buttons 18:20 Custom modes 19:45 Components 20:35 Parts/Splits 21:00 Scales 21:40 Settings 22:10 Pros and cons

1010music Introduces Blackbox 2 - Back in Black Compact Sampler Sequencer

video upload by 1010music

Two user videos further below. Press release follows:


"NEW blackbox 2 – Next Generation of a Compact Sampler Classic with 2X the Power

May 7th, 2026: 1010music unveils new blackbox 2 with features fueled by user requests and the development of the flagship bento sampling production lab.

A new high-resolution color touchscreen lets you load up to four Tracks where each Track can host Loop, One-Shot, Slicer, Shredder or Multisample Instruments. Record sequences in real time by using the touchscreen to finger drum on one-shots or play notes using a virtual keyboard with multisampled instruments like pianos. Or quickly create and edit sequences by drawing notes into the Piano Roll. Plus there’s a new Step Sequencer if that’s your preference.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Introducing Osmose CE

video uploads by Expressive E

Playlist:

1. Introducing Osmose CE — Trailer
2. Osmose CE - The New Generation Of MIDI Controllers
3. Osmose CE — Overview
4. Osmose CE — DAW Control with Ableton Live
5. Osmose CE — DAW Control with Cubase
6. Osmose CE — DAW Control with Logic Pro

Osmose CE // A MIDI Keyboard That Feels Alive // Review & Tutorial

video upload by loopop

Press release follows:

CLICK FOR MORE »

UDO DMNO // A Synth Designed for Exploration, Feedback & Happy Accidents // Domino Review & Tutorial

video upload by loopop

TIMELINE:
0:00 Intro
2:05 Overview
2:55 Play modes
5:40 Voices
6:30 Binaural
7:40 Dual filters
8:05 Ext input
8:25 In a voice
10:25 Workflow
12:55 Build & I/O
15:35 Oscillators
18:35 Osc mods
21:15 Osc mixer
22:20 Single filters
26:00 Cutoff delta
28:10 Parallel mode
29:30 Series mode
30:45 Filter mods
31:20 Module mixer
31:50 Effects
34:45 LFOs
38:00 VCA
38:25 Envelopes
39:15 Mod matrix
39:30 Env follower
40:35 LHC
41:15 Unison
41:40 Misc
42:20 Pros & cons
45:55 Presets

SEQUENTIAL TRIGON-6 POLYPHONIC ANALOGUE SYNTH (DESKTOP)

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

via this listing

Additional Signal Sounds listings

"We say...
A pre-owned Sequential Trigon-6 in very good condition. It comes with original packaging and power cable

Manufacturer's description
Experience the Power of Three Oscillators and a Ladder Filter with the Trigon-6 Module

The Sequential Trigon-6 desktop module delivers the same massive sound and hands-on sonic control as the Trigon-6 Keyboard. It features the same pure analog signal path with discrete oscillators and filters, and the same high-quality digital effects. It also has the same intuitive layout with full-sized knobs and switches that make it quick and easy to shape new sounds.

The Trigon-6 module sounds huge — just like the keyboard, because it is the same six voice polyphonic instrument, just in a smaller form factor. And if you want even more polyphony, you can use the poly chain feature to link any two Trigon-6s for a stunning twelve-voice synth!

A Sound That is Bold and Familiar

The Trigon-6 is Sequential’s polyphonic take on the classic, thick and creamy, 3-oscillator-plus-ladder-filter analog sound that defined the dawn of the synth era. It’s a sound that bridges genres and styles — now refined and redefined with Sequential’s own modern imprint.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Akai Introduces the MPC Sample

video uploads by Akai Professional

Playlist:

1. DNU MPC Sample with Dibia$e | Akai Professional
2. MPC Sample | Overview
3. MPC Sample | Where Beats are Born | Akai Professional

Getting Started with the MPC Sample Tutorial Videos

video uploads by Akai Professional

And three user videos:



Playlist:

1. Akai MPC SAMPLE Review // Does it BEAT the Competition? + 5 Power Tips // Tutorial - loopop
2. (•˕ •マ.ᐟ Jam With ‪@Akai_Pro‬ MPC Live III - Isobutane
3. Akai Professional | MPC SAMPLE | Techno Jam (No Talking)

Pics and details via Perfect Circuit

Also check with your favorite dealers on the right for various deals and bundles.

"Akai's MPC Sample is a portable chopping machine that is ready to go whenever a moment of inspiration strikes or as your lightweight companion through a day of slow-moving errands. Styled after their beloved MPC60, this beige beauty gives nostalgia and function in a battery-powered package. To ensure the size and ease-of-use remains paramount, the MPC Sample has a stripped down OS and micro pads but don't let the size fool you: this is an MPC through-and-through.

Whether using the built-in microphone, the stereo 1/4" jacks, or USB audio, you get quick access to the Sample Record section that is as easy as pressing a pad. A few quick trims using the multifunction knobs or using the shift and main encoder in combination will have you chopping and trimming in no time. Once you have your samples loaded, chopped, and assigned, recording a sequence is just as easy: just set the mode to Seq, adjust settings to taste, press the pad you want to record to, and you've got a loop. Resample that loop for further processing, use the step edit mode to make micro adjustments, and precompose a few sequences to switch between for full track performances.

The MPC Sample lets you engage effects in two different ways: the Knob FX and Pad FX. As their names portend, the Knob FX gives you access to a gang of effects including delays and reverbs, amp simulations, modulation effects, and vintage emulators. These effects are controlled with the three multifunction knobs for excellent playability. The Pad FX, on the other hand, are 16 always available effects that get triggered momentarily by the pads and are expressed via velocity. This is where you can get a stutter effect, several coloration effects, a half-speed effect, and other performable, musical delights. A fantastic choice for newcomers and veterans alike, the MPC Sample from Akai is a powerful tool for studio or stage that complements just about any other piece of equipment in your audio arsenal.

MPC SAMPLE FEATURES

Portable, battery powered sampler

16 Velocity sensitive mini pads

Built-in mic

Record and save sequences

Edit and chop samples

Dedicated volume slider lets you mix chops on the fly

16 Pad FX engage at the press of a pad

Selectable Knob FX including vintage sampler emulation

8 Banks of samples per project

Built-in Speaker

Simple OS with crisp screen

Retro styling"

CLICK FOR MORE »

Novation Introduces New Launch Control

Meet The NEW Launch Control: What does it do? video upload by Novation

Find out more about Launch Control - https://novationmusic.com/products/la...
Discover the Launch Control range - https://novationmusic.com/launch-cont...
Explore Launch Control XL - https://novationmusic.com/products/la...

Watch our livestream feature dive walkthrough for the new Launch Control - [BELOW] News Story - https://bit.ly/_Discover_The_NEW_Laun...

"We’re excited to unveil the latest generation of our most compact control surface, Launch Control 3 - available to order now. This video gives you an overview of everything our new Launch Control can do for you and your unique workflow.

Our new controller packs the most powerful features of Launch Control XL 3 into a smaller footprint and is perfect for adding an extra layer of tactile control to any studio or stage setup. Launch Control is a compact and highly portable MIDI control surface designed to integrate with all major DAWs, software synths, effects, and external hardware. Connect via USB or MIDI I/O and adjust parameters with 16 endless rotary encoders, eight assignable buttons, and a new OLED display.

Launch Control comes bundled with studio-grade software to get you started. Ableton Live Lite lets you record, launch and perform, while Cubase LE is ideal for songwriting and production projects. You also receive a selection of plugins from Klevgrand, Baby Audio and Output.

Chapters:
00:00 - Introducing the new Launch Control
00:24 - Launch Control Feature Overview
00:55 - Launch Control's DAW Integration
01:17 - Launch Control's DAW Control and Mixer Features
01:53 - Launch Control's Hardware Integration
02:08 - Launch Control's Custom Modes
02:19 - Launch Control: The DAW, Plugin, and Hardware Control Surface"

Launch Control | Everything you need to know | Livestream

video upload by Novation

Novation Launch Control MK3 // Here's what's new // Review & tutorial

video upload by loopop

"TIMELINE: 0:00 Intro 1:10 Screen 2:20 Encoders 3:10 RGB LEDs 3:45 vs XL MK3 4:30 Build 5:20 I/O 6:25 DAWs 6:45 HUI (Reaper) 7:10 Ableton 8:55 User modes 9:55 Components 11:35 Synth params 13:50 Write an app! 15:00 Motion rec 16:05 Morph 16:30 Random 18:10 Setup 19:20 Settings 20:00 Pros & cons"

"Launch Control is a compact and portable MIDI control surface designed to integrate with all major DAWs, software synths, effects, and external hardware. Connect via USB or MIDI I/O and adjust parameters with 16 endless rotary encoders, eight assignable buttons, and a crisp OLED display.

Key features

16 endless encoders
Eight assignable buttons
MIDI routing via USB and 5-pin DIN
Store up to seven Custom Modes

The Creative Control Surface
Get hands on with your DAW, plugins, and hardware from a portable-yet-powerful controller with 16 endless rotary encoders; eight assignable buttons; and a crisp OLED display for essential info. Mix and sculpt sounds right out the box, and create up to seven Custom Modes to fit your specific workflow in the studio or on stage.

16 endless encoders
Launch Control’s smooth-feeling endless rotary encoders each feature a dedicated RGB LED that indicates its relative value. Pan tracks, adjust sends, or do anything else you want via Custom Modes — all with adjustable response curves."

You can find additional details at Novation.

CLICK FOR MORE »

Arturia Introduces KeyStep 37 mk2

Playlist:

1. Tutorial | KeyStep 37 mk2 | Overview
2. Arturia KeyStep 37 MK2 // All the new features it unlocks // Review & Tutorial - loopop
3. Arturia KeyStep 37 Mk2 Review - Molten Music Technology
4. Arturia KEYSTEP 37 MK2 — My New Favorite MIDI Keyboard! = BoBeats
5. Arturia Keystep 37 Mk2 Review and Demo - Starsky Carr

Check with dealers on the right on pricing and availability.

KeyStep 37 mk2 is the go-to compact controller and sequencer. Combining extended playability, enhanced hands-on control, visual feedback, and deep connectivity. It makes it ideal for jamming, live performing, and finding new musical ideas with any hybrid setup.

_Features

KeyStep 37 mk2 builds upon the original with new generative tools like Mutate, a clearer OLED interface, extended connectivity, a more powerful sequencer and arpeggiator and a refreshed design.

_Sequencer with pattern chaining and unquantized recording

From live feel to locked grooves, edit or evolve your ideas

_Mutate, Spice, Phrase Arpeggiator

Transform sequences instantly without stopping the music.

_Scale and Chord Modes

Stay musical, create harmonies, or keep it experimental.

_What’s new?

KeyStep 37 mk2 has more physical controls:

5 more keys, 2 additional buttons and 4 knobs to control sub-menus.

This drastically enhances the overall playability of the instrument while keeping the same amount of functionality.

Users also get additional visual feedback on the Keystep 37 mk2 compared to the KeyStep mk2 as there's a strip of 39 LEDS over the keybed that indicates notes played by the keyboard.

CLICK FOR MORE »

TAL Sampler + Baby Audio Tekno Jam

video upload by Coastal Satellites

"TAL Sampler (using Loopop's Oberheim TEO 5 sample library) + Baby Audio Tekno.

Bass Station 2 as a MIDI controller and using its onboard arpeggiator, controlling TAL Sampler. I loaded a pluck patch, from Loopop's Oberheim TEO 5 synth sample library, running through an Akai S100 style DAC in TAL sampler, to give it an even more vintage/lo-fi feel.

Lastly added an analog style delay to the synth arp via Valhalla Delay. There's also a shaker loop on top of Tekno, also using Valhalla Delay (on the phaser setting). No external FX on Tekno."

Why Electra One Feels Like the Future of MIDI Control // Mini vs MK2 Review

video upload by loopop

TIMELINE:
0:00 Intro
1:10 Overview
2:50 Build
4:00 MK2 vs Mini
4:30 Controls
5:45 Multis
6:50 Pages
7:30 Presets
8:10 Snapshots
8:50 Morph
9:50 Rand #1
10:20 Rand #2
10:45 Captures
11:05 Pin presets
11:40 I/O
12:05 MK2 exclusives
12:25 Performance
13:40 Devices
14:05 Routing
14:40 Assigns
15:05 The Editor
17:25 Convert psets
17:50 AI coding
22:25 Ableton Live
24:30 Pros & cons

Korg Phase8 Review: What happens when Physical Resonators meet Synthesis?

video upload by loopop

"Explore Phase8 at home with my multisamples on Patreon: ► / loopop"

TIMELINE: 0:00 Intro 1:45 Overview 3:15 Vel & env 3:55 Buttons 5:30 Air fader 6:00 Shift 6:20 Pluck 6:50 Drones 7:20 Drone jam 7:50 Build & IO 8:15 In the box 8:35 Mod left 8:55 Mod right 10:25 Mod center 10:50 Settings 11:25 Center #2 11:45 Step seq 12:35 Live seq 13:55 Automation 15:25 MIDI 15:45 Pros & cons 19:00 Three jams

The Phase8 has finally made it to market. Check with dealers on the right for availability.

Press release follows:

KORG Introduces phase8, an Eight-Voice Acoustic Synthesizer

MELVILLE, NY - KORG announces the phase8, an eight-voice acoustic synthesizer designed for musicians and creators who want sound that feels alive, immediate, and deeply responsive. Using Acoustic Synthesis technology developed at KORG, phase8 merges physically vibrating steel resonators with precise electronic control to deliver an instrument that behaves like an acoustic object while offering the creative flexibility of a synthesizer. It answers the need for a new kind of expressive electronic instrument by generating sound in the physical world, responding to touch and interaction, and integrating seamlessly into today’s creative setups through MIDI, USB-MIDI, Sync, and CV connectivity.

At the heart of phase8 are eight independent electromechanical voices driving steel resonators to produce genuinely acoustic vibration. KORG supplies 13 chromatically tuned resonators with the instrument, eight of which can be installed at a time, allowing players to customize the tuning, scale, and character of their setup. Through envelope control, these resonators can move from short, percussive hits to long, sustained tones, encouraging hands-on exploration and performance. The resonators are easily swappable and tunable, making the instrument adaptable to individual playing approaches and musical environments.

phase8 has been designed not only to sound organic, but to feel interactive in use. Players are invited to shape sound directly, touching, plucking, strumming, or tapping the resonators, or even experimenting with found objects to introduce new textures. An AIR slider lets users boost or quiet the acoustic response of what they bring into contact with the instrument, enhancing its tactile, haptic character and underscoring its role as a physical instrument as much as an electronic device.

For structured creativity, phase8 features an intuitive sequencer that supports both step programming and unquantized live recording, with step skip available per voice to enable complex polymetric rhythms. Sequences can be stored and recalled across eight memory slots, while all front-panel parameters can be automated using the record function, allowing evolving passages and detailed motion to be captured directly into performance. Three modulation modes are available, including tremolo and two pitch-dependent audio-rate modulation types, with the final mode offering optional harmonic quantization. A trigger delay, controllable via the instrument’s shift knob, allows delayed resonator triggers relative to the selected or synchronized tempo, further expanding rhythmic expression. phase8 is designed to integrate effortlessly into modern creative workflows. External MIDI devices can trigger the Acoustic Synth, while the phase8 sequencer can, in turn, trigger external MIDI instruments over MIDI or USB-MIDI. Tempo synchronization is available over MIDI, USB-MIDI, and Sync, and CV input (±5V) allows parameter control from compatible analogue hardware. The instrument provides MIDI TRS-A In/Out, USB-C for USB-MIDI and firmware, Sync In/Out, a ¼-inch line audio output, and a 3.5mm headphone output.

Practical considerations match the innovation inside. phase8 runs on a 12V AC adaptor and consumes 4.8W of power. It measures 231 x 236.5 x 46 mm, weighs 1.71 kg, and ships with an AC adaptor, hex key, Quick Start Guide, Precautions Sheet, and five more resonators alongside the included chromatically tuned set. phase8 is a new chapter in expressive instrument design, bringing together acoustic behavior, electronic precision, real-time interaction, and deep sequencing control in a compact, performance-ready form. For more information, please visit NAMM Booth #6802 or online at www.korg.com.

Street Price: $1149.99 USD

Introducing MPC XL | The Next-Generation Flagship Standalone MPC for Sampling and Sequencing by Akai

video upload by Akai Professional

MPC XL Overview | Akai Professional

video upload by Akai Professional

MPC XL with Teddy Riley | Akai Professional

video upload by Akai Professional

And a user video by loopop:

Review: Akai MPC XL vs MPC X // MPC 3.7's biggest new feature // Using MPCe

video upload by loopop

THE FLAGSHIP OF ALL STANDALONES
MPC XL has everything you need for pro-level music making. It features ultra-responsive MPCe pads, a dedicated step sequencer, touch-sensitive Q-Links with OLED displays, a next-gen 8-core processor, 16 GB RAM, hands-on performance controls, advanced sequencing tools, deep I/O connectivity, and so much more. Integrated with MPC3 OS, this system supports up to 32 plugin instruments, 16 audio tracks, and 256 voices, making it a studio-grade workhorse.

A COMPLETE STUDIO CENTERPIECE
The flagship of all standalone music production systems, MPC XL is an all-in-one studio hub. Produce your entire album, drive your external hardware, and command your setup from one powerful instrument—no computer required.

POWERFUL PROCESSING
Powered by a new Gen 2 8-core processor with 16GB of RAM, MPC XL delivers four times the performance of previous MPCs. Load multiple plugin instruments, run complex sessions, and navigate your projects without interruption.

CREATIVE CONTROL AT YOUR FINGERTIPS
MPCe pads with 3D-sensing technology brings a new level of expression to beatmaking and production. Each pad features four distinct quadrants, enabling advanced X/Y control, sound morphing, looping, layering, and modulation for the most dynamic playing experience.

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