Novation Circuit Template for Easily Playing Notes with Samples

Published on Oct 22, 2016 loopop

"Hello! I'm sharing a template that will let you play your Novation Circuit samples melodically. Please watch the tutorial so you'll know what to do."

Novation Circuit hack/template for playing melodies with samples - version 2

Published on Oct 24, 2016 loopop

"Hi there! This is an advanced version of the template for playing melodies with Novation Circuit samples. This version includes major, chromatic and blues scales. Please watch the first tutorial for details on how to use this template.

Here's a link to download it:

http://www.mediafire.com/file/thxxda1..."

CLICK FOR MORE »

New Arturia Keystep Pro Released

Published on Apr 14, 2020 Arturia

Playlist:
Arturia Performance | KeyStep Pro
KeyStep Pro Tutorials | Episode 1 - Overview
KeyStep Pro Tutorials | Episode 2 - Sequencer basics
KeyStep Pro Tutorials | Episode 3 - Sequencer advanced
KeyStep Pro Tutorials | Episode 4 - Arpeggiator
KeyStep Pro Tutorials | Episode 5 - Performing
KeyStep Pro Tutorials | Episode 6 - Connectivity & settings

Priced at $449/399€

Two new videos below. One by BoBeats and one by Loopop. You can find previous posts featuring the Keystep Pro here.

"Main Features
37 note slim keys, velocity and aftertouch sensitive
LED above each key for efficient visual feedback
Four track step sequencer
16 step buttons, up to 64 steps per sequence
Up to 16 notes of polyphony per step
Melodic sequencer
Real-Time recording, step recording, step editing
Pitch, velocity, gate length, time shift and probability for each note
Scale quantization with user scales
Polyphonic CV outputs
Drum sequencer
24 part drum sequencer
Polyrhythm
Performance-oriented sequencer
Forward and two random playing modes
Pattern randomization
Quantized or unquantized recording
Looper
Arpeggiator
7 arpeggiator modes, 5 octave range
Chord mode
Controller mode
Use the 5 encoders to send CCs
Automate the CCs
Crisp OLED display
4x (CV, Gate, Mod) outputs + 8 drum gate outputs
1 MIDI in, 2 MIDI out, USB, Clock synchronization
Metronome with included speaker and line output
Sustain pedal input"


Keystep Pro Hands-On Review: Arturias long awaited midi keyboard & sequencer is FINALLY here!

Published on Apr 14, 2020 BoBeats

"Today we are checking out the new KeyStep Pro From Arturia. It's a 4 track midi keyboard & sequencer. Sponsored by DistroKid. Get 7% off using my link: http://distrokid.com/vip/bobeats - a great way to get your music to Spotify/Apple Music and more stores...

Listen to my latest release Frankly: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/bob..."

►Patreon: http://bit.ly/bobeatspatreon

And one from loopop:

Arturia KEYSTEP PRO // Review & full tutorial // vs BeatStep Pro and SL mk3

Published on Apr 14, 2020 loopop

TIMELINE:
0:00 Overview
3:20 Connectivity
4:30 The setup
5:15 Arpeggiator
8:05 Time divisions
8:30 Step Sequencing
10:05 Track polymeter
10:20 Live record
11:45 Step edit
12:25 Seq modifiers
13:20 Drum sequencer
14:55 Mutes
15:35 Drum polymeter
17:20 Control track - tested with iPad
18:55 Scales
20:40 Chains
22:30 Scenes
23:00 Jam walkthru
25:15 Projects
25:40 Performance controls
26:45 Looper
29:50 Splits
30:10 Chords
30:55 Control center
31:20 CV routing
32:45 Utility menu
34:05 KSP vs SLmk3, BSP
36:35 Pros & cons

Did Akai fix the "cons"? MPC LIVE II vs MPC ONE // Speaker test, review and 2.8 tutorial

Published on May 14, 2020 loopop

See the MPC LIVE II announcement post here.

Get loopop's expanding book of synth and electronic music ideas, tips and tricks here:

► Patreon: https://patreon.com/loopop

TIMELINE:
0:00 Intro
0:30 Live II vs I vs One
2:15 Buttons
3:30 Connectivity
5:45 Size
6:50 Storage
7:30 Speaker test
9:50 Version 2.8
10:15 “Cons” fixed
10:25 Track select
10:35 Q-link overlay
11:45 Pad perform
12:35 Timestretch
14:30 Retro record
15:25 Custom chords
16:10 Other misc
16:25 Multi MIDI
17:30 MIDI settings
18:45 Config & arm
21:00 Live looping
23:15 Pros & cons

Synthstrom Deluge 3.0 Firmware Released

DELUGE 3: Full tutorial and workflow walkthrough loopop Published on Sep 15, 2019 loopop - New featured covered 30 minutes in.

Additional overview videos by Ron Cavagnaro further below.

"Deluge firmware V3.0.0 is released today, another major update adding some of our biggest new features yet.

New features
* Audio clips (an all-new type of clip, in addition to synth, kit, CV and MIDI)
* Live looping of audio and instrument / MIDI clips, including easy overdubbing / layering, and automatic tempo setting
* Audio clip live looping includes option to record additional audio "margins" either side of loop (from before you even pressed record), to allow a brief crossfade to eliminate click at loop point
* Auto-extending of clip length during note recording
* Recording count-in
* Recording audio or MIDI directly into arrangement tracks
* Audio thru
* Alphanumeric keyboard, allowing text-based names of presets and files
* Deleting of audio and preset files
* New preset-loading interface, with "clone" function for adding multiple preset instances
* USB host mode for MIDI devices
* Ability to switch off automatic sample previewing"
* Expanded MIDI control of functions for pedal control of live looping
* Further CPU optimizations to allow an even greater number of sounds to be played at once

Loopop has created an excellent walkthrough video on the Deluge to coincide with the V3.0 firmware release. Skip to 30mins to just check out the new features, but watching the whole video offers a nice little refresh over some of the core functionality."


Published on Sep 15, 2019 Ron Cavagnaro

Playlist:

1. Audio Clips (3.0) // Synthstrom Deluge Tutorial

Intro 0:00
Loading in a drum loop 0:30
Setting Tempo To Clip 1:08
Stretching Audio Clip 1:56
Trimming End of Audio Clip 2:24
Audio Clip FX 3:40
Arranger View 4:37
Extended Audio Clip Improvisation Demo 5:48

CLICK FOR MORE »

NI Kontrol S Series MK3 Review & Overview by loopop

Review & Overview by loopop added to the announcement post here.

201 Pocket Piano // a minimalist synth that's infinitely tweakable // review & tutorial

video upload by loopop

"Get bonus content and my exclusive In-Complete Book of Electronic Music Ideas, Tips and Tricks, on my Patreon: ► https://www.patreon.com/loopop"

TIMELINE:
0:00 Intro
1:25 Overview
3:40 Factory synths
5:50 Factory arps
7:10 Sequencer
8:00 Custom LFO?
8:30 Polyphony
8:55 Build & IO
10:25 vs Organelle
11:20 Patch swap
14:10 More macros?
14:30 Multisamples
14:55 More arps
15:15 Text arps
15:30 Pure data
16:10 Mother-in-law
17:45 Custom 201?
18:00 MIDI settings
18:15 Pros & cons
20:05 Outro walkthru

Additive Synthesis Magical Mystery Tour // Pigments 3, Razor, Loom & Alchemy Resynthesis Tutorial

video by loopop

"Get these insights and many more in my ever-expanding book of electronic music ideas, tips and tricks :

► Patreon: https://patreon.com/loopop​

Synths/gear in the video:
► Pigments 3
► Alchemy (part of Logic Pro)
► Razor from Native Instruments
► Loom II from Air
► Polyphylla (available from Ableton)
► Fabfilter Q
► Scopes by Melda: https://www.meldaproduction.com/​"

PERKONS HD-01 Review // Did Erica Synths bottle up thunder in drum synth? Detailed tutorial here...

video upload by loopop

Download a thunderous sample pack of Perkons on my Patreon:
► Patreon: https://patreon.com/loopop

TIMELINE:
0:00 Intro
1:30 Overview
3:45 Grid views
5:05 Connectivity
5:40 Banks
6:30 Sound engines
8:00 Voice 1
10:05 Voice 2
12:10 Voice 3
16:05 Voice 4
19:05 BB Delay
20:50 Compressor
21:50 MIDI control
22:15 External FX
24:05 Tempo
24:35 Sequencing
25:00 Speed & groove
25:45 Play modes
26:35 Ratchet & odds
29:00 Live rec
29:20 Motion seq
29:50 Param locks
31:15 Accents
31:45 LFO
34:20 Pros & cons
39:05 Outro

Introducing the Roland SP-404MKII Creative Sampler and Effector

video upload by RolandChannel

The SP-404MKII Creative Sampler and Effector will be available in the U.S. in November for $499.99.

Chapter Breakdown
0:00 Introduction
What’s New:
0:52 Hardware
01:41 Inside
Workflow:
2:09 Sampling Workflow
5:27 New + Classic FX, Bus FX
9:05 Pattern Sequencer
10:58 DJ Mode
Personalization
12:36 Customization

ROLAND SP-404 MK2 Review // 9 tips & ideas to make the most of it // Tutorial for the SP-404 MKII

video upload by loopop

"For a limited time until October 24, download my SP-404 MKII Superbooth sample pack for free here, maybe even finish a track in time for my contest if you get your hands on one! ► https://loopopmusic.sellfy.store/p/sp...

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: https://patreon.com/loopop"

"The SP-404MKII is the ultimate Roland SP sampler. Carefully refined through feedback from the beatmaking community mixed with extensive research and development, it’s faster and better than ever. With a vivid OLED display, 17 expressive new pads, expanded effects, fluid sequencing and sampling, and a massive library of authentic sounds, get ready for even more inspired creations.

Lightning-fast boot time, project loading, and sample import will have you knocking out beats in no time. Plus, 16 GB of internal storage give you ample space to store your creations or have your favorite samples at the ready. Whether you’re a beatmaking newbie or an SP pro, you’ll feel right at home with the intuitive layout and classic SP effects, plus a revamped sampling and sequencing workflow, Skip Back Sampling for quick performance capture, DJ mode to mix beats live, and more.

The SP-404MKII makes on the go beatmaking even easier. With its lightweight-yet-rugged design and expanded features, this unit is ideal for making amazing sounding beats on the move. Run it on AA or mobile battery power, capture audio from or stream directly to your mobile device via USB, or collab with a partner using the dual headphones outputs and mic/guitar input.

With the SP-404MKII’s vivid OLED screen and zoomable waveform view, sample editing is smooth as silk. Chop up samples by tapping out edit points in real time or slice samples automatically. Then finesse them with envelope and pitch shift. Use the new resampling workflow to re-record patterns and effects layers for detailed sound design. And with Skip Back Sampling, you can preserve those fire moments by capturing up to 25 seconds of audio from your last jam. Now, it’s never been easier to dial in and cook up beats the moment inspiration strikes."  

CLICK FOR MORE »

Intellijel METROPOLIX

Metropolix - First look

Additional overview video by loopop below.

Pic via CONTROL

The Intellijel Metropolix is a unique and powerful Eurorack format musical sequencer. With an abundance of hands-on, tactile controls and a wealth of modulation possibilities (both internal and external) you can quickly and easily create infectiously musical sequences that are never boring. Even the simplest riff can be brought to life with seemingly endless options to create variations or real-time manipulations. Equally at home in the studio or a live improvised performance, the Metropolix is sure to become a staple source of fresh ideas and killer riffs in your creative process.

On first blush, it appears to be a simple 8-stage sequencer — but there is far more functionality than first meets the eye:

● There are two tracks (TRK 1 and TRK 2) that are variants of the single master pitch/gate sequencer, which is programmed via the PITCH sliders, PULSE COUNT and GATE TYPE switches. Each track interprets the master sequence in a variety of ways — creating complementary sequence variations that enable you to generate counterpoint, polyrhythms, and all manner of sonic movement (both subtle and extreme). Each of these tracks has its own playback ORDER, sequence LENgth, clock DIVision, SWING amount, SLIDE time, and track GATE lengths. Other track-based sequence variables are accessible from the TRACK MENU, and include Pitch Slider inversion; sequence note range; track transposition; and more. In addition, Tracks 1 & 2 both have multiple lanes of per-stage playback parameters, including: GATE override; PITCH override; RATCHet count; PROBability of playback; ACCUMulating transposition, and a dedicated CV lane. Each stage also has a SKIP feature, and a pitch SLIDE option.

● 8 separate and individual MODulation lanes are accessed via the MOD button. Each MOD lane has 8-stages of modulation values and its own playback ORDER, LENgth, and clock DIVision; and each lane is routable to one of Metropolix’ two assignable outputs or to dozens of internal destinations, allowing for some sophisticated and powerful self-modulation.

● A trio of AUX inputs allows for external modulation of user-assignable sequencer parameters for even greater variation, while two assignable CTRL knobs give you direct access to the parameters you want to adjust most frequently during a performance. With dedicated Pitch/Gate outputs for both Track 1 and Track 2; two totally user-assignable outputs (A and B); and internal MOD routing, Metropolix features a wealth of patching opportunities.

● Metropolix also features a Loopy mode, allowing you to instantly play back short sub-sequences, or even “play” the stage buttons directly (like a ‘keyboard’).

● Metropolix stores up to 64 preset configurations (in 8 banks of 8 presets), and all live settings are stored in EPROM, ensuring that your Metropolix will always power up exactly as you left it — even if you haven’t saved them to a preset. By default presets can change all the structural (menu-based) elements of your sequencer without overwriting the front panel controls, but full recall is also available.

● The operation of the Metropolix is optimized for live performance and jamming, with quick access to all the most important performance parameters, and the ability to greatly affect your sequences with a single slider or switch.


video by loopop

TIMELINE:
0:00​ Intro
1:00​ Sliders & switches
2:05​ What’s old?
3:30​ What’s new?
3:55​ Two tracks
5:10​ New lanes
6:30​ More news
8:45​ Stage buttons
10:40​ Track controls
13:35​ Knobs & IO
15:10​ This setup
17:10​ Home screens
17:35​ Mod tracks
21:15​ Skip invert
22:30​ Decoupling 1 & 2
23:20​ “Split view”
24:20​ Pitch override
26:45​ Accumulator
28:40​ Loopy
29:20​ Split kbd/seq
30:30​ Using presets
32:40​ Pros & cons
37:45​ Outro track

Review: Octatrack at year 8 - Is it still worth it?

Published on Jan 14, 2019 loopop

"With plenty of upgrades and 8 years after it was released, is the Octatrack still worth it? This review attempts to find out, in light of a few other instruments that have come out recently.

The review is split up into two parts, first, the top 10 features I think still make it stand out, and then a deeper look at what the user experience “cost” is in terms of complexity.

There are a few sampling and LFO tricks used in this video, all of which can be found in my In-Complete Book of Electronic Music Ideas, Tips and Tricks (hint: it's in-complete because it's always being updated…):

► Patreon: https://patreon.com/loopop

TIMELINE:

0:00 Intro
0:50 #1: Live sampling
3:10 #2: Audio I/O x 4
5:10 #3: Crossfader
7:00 #4: Time/Pitch
10:15 #5: Power slicing
11:30 #6: “Plays free”
13:00 #7: Audio streaming
13:20 #8: LFO designer
15:10 #9: Built in FX
16:25 #10: A lot more...
17:55 Is it easy to use?
18:45 Track machines
21:20 Static & flex slots
23:20 Recorders & buffers
25:00 Banks & parts
26:45 Trig key modes
28:25 Summary "

Loopop exclusive: ContinuuMini review and tutorial

Published on Nov 26, 2018 loopop

"Here's my exclusive review and tutorial for the ContinuuMini, now available at a reduced price on Kickstarter.
​
Here's a link to my review of the bigger Continuum, including how to create basic presets on using the EaganMatrix: [posted here]

Timeline:
0:00 lntro
1:05 Mini vs. keys
4:30 Built-in synth
6:55 Preset controls
7:50 Rounding
8:40 Effects
9:20 Onboard menu
10:35 EaganMatrix
11:25 The build
12:40 Mini vs. Continuum
14:15 Connecting a foot-switch and expression pedal
15:15 External synths
16:30 Pros and cons
17:30 Summary"

Roland SH-101 vs Behringer MS-101: Can you hear the difference?

Published on Jun 11, 2019 loopop

"The Roland SH-101 is a classic for good reason. It sounds great and has a clear and straightforward interface. Unfortunately, Roland stopped making them over 30 years ago, which is what makes Behringer's MS-101 so interesting, not to mention the fact that the MS costs between a third and fourth of a second hand SH.

This video starts with a feature comparison but tries to answer the big question which is - do they sound the same? It also includes a blind test - can you hear the difference?

TIMELINE:

0:00 Intro
1:00 Feature comparison
2:30 The Oscillators
4:15 The Filter
6:05 Envelopes
6:40 Blind test
8:20 Conclusion
9:00 Loopop jam
10:30 Isak jam"

UDO SUPER 6 // Full Review and Tutorial

loopop

"Get the outro sound and close to 20 SUPER 6 presets, and check out my ever-expanding book of electronic music ideas, tips and tricks here:

► Patreon: https://patreon.com/loopop

TIMELINE:
0:00 Intro
1:00 Overview
6:05 Connectivity
7:20 Binaural
10:00 DDS 1
11:20 User waves
12:05 DDS 2
14:25 LFO 1
16:55 User LFO
17:30 Analog filter
19:40 Envelopes
20:00 LH control
21:25 Unison
21:40 Arpeggiator
23:25 Sequencer
26:10 Mod matrix
28:15 Effects
29:25 Pros, cons
34:10 Outro"

Loopop and 20+ synths at Superbooth 2018, in B-Flat

Published on May 9, 2018 loopop

Oberheim OB-X8 Review // Desktop v Keyboard v OB-6 // 15 synth tips and ideas // Tutorial

video upload by loopop

"Want to try out the OB-X8 at home without buying one? Check out my favorite patches - multisampled on my Patreon here:

► https://www.patreon.com/loopop"

TIMELINE:
0:00 Intro
1:35 Overview
4:10 Page 2
6:30 vs Keyboard
7:50 Connectivity
9:30 Stereo

CLICK FOR MORE »

Introducing Digitakt II

video upload by Elektron

Pics & details previously posted here.

"We are delighted to announce the release of Digitakt II - Send yourself to another sampling dimension, weaving splinters of sound in stereo, ripped from the moment and brought to your fingertips for marvelous audio manipulation and beat arraying. Preserve or distort reality as you so desire with 16 tracks ready for stereo or mono samples, or MIDI. Choose from several swappable filters for each track and utilize a wide assortment of effects and modulation, pull on massive processing power, and enough memory for a lifetime of samples. And with further tasty features like a Euclidean sequence generator, an extended 128 step sequencer, kits, trig modes, an extensive sample library, and a modular workflow to play with, your sonic-montage sculpting potential will know no beat-making bounds.

Digitakt II is available to purchase from the Elektron website or from retailers carrying the Elektron range of products. Pricing on elektron.se is 999 USD/1049 EUR."

Digitakt II — At A Glance

video upload by Elektron

"Digitakt II offers endless drum collage with 16 audio tracks all ready for stereo or mono samples or MIDI, swappable filters, 3 LFOs per track, a 128-step sequencer, expanded memory and power, and so much more. Here, Risa T talks through a bunch of the awesome features on offer, and takes us all on some sweet sonic escapades."

Review: DIGITAKT II vs OG Digitakt // Everything new in Digitakt 2 // Detailed tutorial

video upload by loopop

Timeline below.

Digitakt 2 - Beginner's MEGA TUTORIAL

video upload by True Cuckoo

Timeline further below.

CLICK FOR MORE »

How to synthesize the Dune 2 Duduk on a 50 year old synth (ARP 2600 patch walkthru)

video upload by loopop

"Don't have an ARP 2600? Download a multisample of this patch on my Patreon:

► https://www.patreon.com/loopop

Thanks to Isak for the inspiration for this patch:
► https://www.instagram.com/isak_madeon...

TIMELINE:
0:00 Intro
0:45 Oscillators
1:20 Envelopes
1:40 Reverb
2:00 Unfiltered noise
2:40 Edge of clipping
3:35 Aftertouch vibrato
4:40 Filter type
4:55 Outro

New Arturia MicroFreak Vocoder Update & White Edition

Playlist:
1. Arturia Performance | MicroFreak Vocoder Edition
2. Tutorials | MicroFreak - Episode 6: Vocoder Mode
3. Arturia MicroFreak Vocoder First Test. (feat additional Reverb) - Sound Provider
4 Arturia Microfreak Vocoder Update (setting things up, exploring the sounds, vocoding drum machines!) - Oscillator Sink
5. Arturia MicroFreak Vocoder Review - loopop

TIMELINE for loopop video:
0:00 Intro
0:15 Hidden input
0:45 Limited edition
1:25 MicroFreak overview
2:10 Vocoder basics
3:50 Setting gain
4:30 Osc controls
6:10 Hiss controls
7:35 Vocoder presets
9:00 TIPS FOR LEGIBILITY
9:05 Pronounce well
9:20 Headphones
9:35 Tune with samples
10:30 Intervals
10:40 Repeat lyrics
10:50 Mix OG vocal
11:00 OTHER TIPS & IDEAS
11:05 Use beats
11:45 Complex envelopes
12:50 Earphone gain
13:35 Pitch bend and mod
13:45 Glide
14:10 Compression
14:30 Bold beatboxing...
14:55 Reverb and delay
15:15 Pros and cons

And the press release with some pics:

"Arturia Unleash MicroFreak Vocoder Edition

Sing alongside glistening digital textures. Add paraphonic harmonies to external sound sources. Scatter spoken word across sprawling modulated sequences. This is the uniquely unpredictable MicroFreak formula but not as you know it.

Limited edition, limitless madness
A new look, a new configuration, a new sound. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this exclusive limited-run Freak tick...

Gooseneck microphone
Easily adjustable and removable, the mic connects to the headphone socket, designed to fit snug against MicroFreak’s rear connectivity panel.

Limited-edition finish
MicroFreak Vocoder Edition has been given a makeover, featuring a sleek, eye-catching white design with a unique Swan graphic.

New 16-band Vocoder engine
Accurately detect, filter and replicate the complex harmonics of the human voice. Sawtooth, pulse width and noise waveforms, with 16 new presets to boot.

Connect external sound sources
Process an external sound source like a drum machine/synth via the headphone socket for glitchy vocoder sound processing.

The MicroFreak Vocoder Edition is available to purchase at any authorised Arturia dealer while stock last.

Street price $349/329€

CLICK FOR MORE »

Review and tutorial: VRL (Voltage Research Lab) from Pittsburgh Modular

Published on Oct 24, 2019 loopop

"Chapters about Sample and Hold, LFOs and Eurorack for beginners in my ever-expanding book of synth and electronic music ideas, tips and tricks here:

► Patreon: https://patreon.com/loopop

A full download of the jam is available on my Patreon as well as an exclusive Patron benefit.

TIMELINE:
0:00 Intro
1:05 Overview
3:20 MIDI
4:45 Clock
5:00 Arpeggiator
6:50 Primary oscillator
11:10 Secondary oscillator
12:30 FM, AM, Ring, and wave modulation
14:45 Function Generators
17:10 Unison
18:00 Dynamics controllers
19:30 Response
20:40 Pluck
21:40 Analog Delay
23:00 Random tools
24:40 Touch controller
28:00 Sequencing
29:30 System utilities
29:50 Pros & cons
32:50 Outro jam "