video uploads by Under the Big Tree
Looks like I missed these when they initially went up.
Playlist:
1. 1010 Music Fireball and Lemondrop Nanoboxes | Knobcon 2022
Steve Joslin of 1010 Music takes us on a test drive of the amazing Fireball and Lemondrop Nanobox synthesizers. Small but mighty, these synths take up very little room while delivering a lot of bang for the buck.
2. New Buchla Music Easel | Knobcon 2022
Nick Kwas of Buchla shows us the brand new and improved Music Easel, slated for release by the end of the year.
3. Knobcon 2022 Walkthrough
I'm in Chicago for Knobcon 2022, one of the finest synth conventions in North America. For those who are interested but could not attend, I did a simple walkthrough of the exhibit hall.
4. Therevox ET-5 | Knobcon 2022
We talk to Mike Beauchamp of Therevox about their new model ET-5.
Based on the Ondes Martenot, the ET-5 is an exotic and beautiful instrument, capable of vocal-sounding melody lines, as well as ambient drones and even noisy sounds. Truly fascinating.
5. Five12 QV-L Quad Variable LFO | Knobcon 2022
We talk to Five12 founder Jim Coker at Knobcon 2022 about his upcoming Eurorack quad LFO. The QV-L is an incredibly feature-rich module with four LFO's. Two OLED displays and in-depth configurability with a streamlined user interface make this module a true LFO powerhouse.
Playlist:
1. Modular on the Roof - Improvising with Eurorack Modular Outdoors
2. Modular on the Roof 2 - Dreadbox Erebus and Intellijel Atlantis sequenced with Korg SQ1
3. Modular on the Roof 3 - Colin Benders (Kyteman)
4. Modular on the Roof 4 - Myles Avery
5. Modular on the Roof 5 - Nick Kwas (W A N D E R T A L K)
6. Modular on the Roof 6: Sean Krames
7. Modular on the Roof 7 - Federico Chiesa (Oora)
8. Modular on the Roof Episode 8: Simone Pomposi [Pianosa]
9. Modular on the Roof 9: Collin Crowe
10. Modular on the Roof 10: Bubba Ayoub [Juggable Offense]
"two steps to figure out what size battery you need:
1. figure out power consumption of your synth -look at the synth's power supply for voltage and current (mA) -multiply volts times current in Amps (A=milliamps/1000) -Resulting number is the power consumption in watts -do this for each synth you want to power
2. look at the mWh (milli watt hours) spec of the battery -divide the number (in watts = milliwatts/1000) by the total power consumption (in watts) of your synths -the resulting number is how many hours you can run this load for
therefore: if your synth draws, say, 30 watts, and you want to be able to run it for two hours, get a battery that provides 60 watt hours, or 60000mWh - the halo bolt is pretty close to this at 58830mWh. if you need a beefier battery, look for something with a higher mWh rating, something in the 100000mWh-200000mWh range. happy synthing :)
Update: Details are in... Playlist with the first user videos added below.
"Legendary synthesis, radically re-imagined. Organic, inspirational, and mind-blowingly powerful.
KORG’s legendary Wavestation introduced the world to Wave Sequencing, transforming raw samples into sounds that no-one had ever heard before. The flagship OASYS and KRONOS keyboards developed Wave Sequencing even further, expanding on its unique palette of lush, evolving pads and driving rhythms.
Now, KORG is proud to announce the next step in digital synthesis: the wavestate. Featuring the radically re-imagined Wave Sequencing 2.0, the wavestate delivers astonishing, ever-changing sounds with extensive hands-on control.
Far from a nostalgic reissue, the wavestate is designed from the ground up for a new generation of musicians, producers, and composers, taking cues from sources as diverse as modular synths, groove boxes, and algorithmic composition. The compact form-factor, with 37 full-size keys, transports easily and fits neatly into any stage, studio, or desktop setup."
Korg Wavestate User Videos
New Korg Wavestate Vector & Wave Sequencing Synthesizer - Perfect Circuit
Korg Wavestate - All Playing, No Talking! - Kraft Music
Korg Wavestate - Overview with Nick Kwas - Kraft Music
Korg Wavestate - New Keyboard! - sonicstate
KORG WAVESTATE FIRST IMPRESSIONS - BoBeats
Korg WAVESTATE // Review and full tutorial // Wave sequencing and Vector synthesis explained - loopop
Korg Wavestate Wave Sequencing Synthesizer | Reverb Demo
First Look: Korg Wavestate Synthesiser with Wave Sequencing 2.0 - Noisegate
First jam with the Korg Wavestate - Honeysmack
Korg Wavestate - Sound Design Tutorial 1 - True Cuckoo
Highlights:
"With the Wavestation, each step of a Wave Sequence had a duration, a sample, and a pitch. This created ear-catching patterns–but the patterns repeated the same way, over and over. What if they could evolve in organic, unexpected ways, instead of just repeating?
Wave Sequencing 2.0 splits apart the timing, the sequence of samples, and the melody, so that each can be manipulated independently. Also added are new characteristics including shapes, gate times, and step sequencer values. Each of these is a “Lane,” and each Lane can have a different number of steps and its own start, end, and loop points.
Every time the sequence moves forward, the individual Lanes are combined to create the output. For instance, a sample may be matched with a different duration, pitch, shape, gate length, and step sequence value every time that it plays. You can modulate each Lane’s start, end, and loop points separately for every note, using velocity, LFOs, envelopes, Mod Knobs, or other controllers. Each note in a chord can be playing something different!
Lanes can also randomize the step order every time they play, with realtime control over the range of included steps. Finally, individual steps can be randomly skipped, with a modulatable probability from 0 to 100%. The result is organic, ever-changing sounds that respond to your control. The four onboard arpeggiators can interact with Wave Sequences for even more possibilities."
"KORG R&D created the original Wavestation, co-created the OASYS and Kronos, and has developed fundamental technologies behind many other KORG instruments. The wavestate reflects their unique aesthetic, delivering stunning sound and deep flexibility via cutting-edge technologies.
Three of the key sound designers from the original Wavestation, John Bowen [of John Bowen Synth Design & the Solaris], John “Skippy” Lehmkuhl (Plugin Guru), and Peter “Ski” Schwartz, joined Belgian artist Airwave and the renowned KORG voicing team to create the incredible wavestate sound library."
"Bursting with knobs and controllers, the wavestate invites you to explore. All of the basics–filter, envelopes, LFOs, effects–are at your fingertips with dedicated front-panel controls. Eight programmable Mod Knobs are customized to bring out the most in every sound, often taking them in entirely new directions. Use the knobs in realtime performance, and also save the results as new sounds. Add in the Pitch Bend and Modulation Wheels and the unique Vector Joystick, and you’ll always have multiple dimensions of realtime expression.
Want to dig deeper? Almost all front-panel knobs, and most on-screen parameters, can be modulated. You can even modulate settings for individual Wave Sequence Steps! Mod Processors let you transform modulation signals using quantization, smoothing, curvature, and more."
"Randomization that inspires.
Looking for even more inspiration? A dedicated front-panel button, marked by a “dice” icon, generates new sounds via intelligent randomization. Randomize the entire sound or just a part of it, such as the filter, the Sample Lane, or the effects. Use the results directly, or as a jumping-off point for your own creations.
An arsenal of effects.
The wavestate’s superb effects deliver production-ready sounds. Each Layer has three dedicated effects; additionally, the Performance has a master reverb and parametric EQ. Along with standards such as compressors, EQs, choruses, flangers, phasers, and stereo delays, you’ll find distinctive processors such as the Wave Shaper, Talking Modulator, Reverse Delay, Multiband Mod Delay, and Overb (from the OASYS), plus modeled effects including VOX guitar amps, VOX wah, multi-head tape echo, and a collection of classic guitar pedals."
"Choose your filter.
Add vintage character to your sounds with the aggressive MS-20 Lowpass or Highpass filters, or the strong, sweet Polysix Lowpass. Shape and refine with a full collection of resonant 2-pole and 4-pole Lowpass, Highpass, Bandpass, and Band Reject filters. Or, step outside the box with KORG’s unique Multi Filter, which creates modulatable blends of multiple modes simultaneously.
Ample samples. 64 stereo voices.
Totaling in the gigabytes, the wavestate’s sample library is more than a thousand times larger than that of the original Wavestation. That’s a lot of great-sounding raw material for Wave Sequences. There’s a bank of samples from Plugin Guru, brand-new samples from KORG, and a selection from the Kronos and Krome libraries. Of course, KORG also provides all of the Wavestation’s samples (including all options), plus a huge library of Wavestation Wave Sequences. Play up to 64 stereo voices with pristine clarity, using KORG’s proprietary anti-aliasing sample playback technology."
"Multiply by four.
With all of that synthesis power, you might think the wavestate would play only one sound at a time. Not a chance. For even more rich and complex results, layer up to four Programs together in a Performance–each with their own effects and arpeggiator. The Vector Envelope and Joystick mix the individual voices of the four Layers, and can also modulate any other parameters."
"Set Lists and Smooth Sound Transitions.
Set Lists offer effortless organization of your wavestate Performances, and deliver instant access at the gig or in rehearsal. Smooth Sound Transitions allow previously-played voices and effects to continue to ring out naturally, even once a new sound has been selected.
Plays well with others.
Balanced stereo outputs connect to any recording or monitoring system, and a stereo headphone output is provided for private playing or onstage cueing. Din-style MIDI jacks ensure connection to other MIDI-equipped instruments and audio gear. The wavestate supports class-compliant USB MIDI connections to Windows and Mac computers, and the wavestate librarian program is available as free download from KORG."
Nick Kwas talks about the the Korg Microkorg Platinum Limited Edition at Kraft Music.
With its unmistakably unique exterior and its inimitable sound, the Korg microKORG set the standard for analog modeling synthesizers. In use everywhere from bedroom studios to the biggest stages, the microKORG synthesizer / vocoder delivers powerful sound and functionality in a compact package. Other features include 128 programs, a freely settable arpeggiator, controls designed for easy access, and an included mini-mic.
Get more for your money with an exclusive Korg microKORG synthesizer / vocoder bundle from Kraft Music. These package deals include the accessories you'll need to get the most out of your new synth, all for one low price. If you have any questions, please give us a call. Our knowledgeable Sales Advisors will be happy to assist in choosing the bundle that's right for you!"
"In this series of videos, Korg USA product specialist Nick Kwas explains Korg monologue’s oscillator, filter, LFO, envelope and micro tuning features as well as going over different user scales."
"Korg's Nick Kwas played this jam in our studio with the Korg Volca Mix as the mixer for a Monologue, Minilogue, and Volca Sample, the Mini Kaoss Pad 2S is used in the effects send of the Volca Mix. The Volca Mix can power and mix together your Volcas as well as synching them all together and it has built in speakers.
"The Korg NTS-1 is an easy to build DIY monophonic digital synthesizer released earlier this year. The NTS-1 is also completely compatible with the logue-SDK*, so it is possible to run any custom oscillator and effect content available for minilogue xd and prologue, or, create your own.
Nick Kwas was on hand to talk us through the mini little synthesizer."
"The KORG volca nubass is a groundbreaking bass synth implemented with KORG’s new-generation vacuum tube: NuTube. This modernized technology is implemented into the oscillator, sub oscillator and drive circuits; creating incredibly warm tones and rich distortions that only a tube can provide. This unique form of sound generation, along with nubass’ low-pass ladder filter, delivers countless timbral possibilities.
Compact, battery powered with built-in speakers included, the new volca nubass has everything the modern musician needs to take their music to the next level."
Playlist:
KORG’s volca nubass delivers huge bass via a real vacuum tube
Korg Volca Nubass - Overview with Nick Kwas | Kraft Music
Korg Volca NuBass | Reverb
"A powerful bass synth with a sound source based around a vacuum tube oscillator.
The acid bass machine with the pinnacle of modulation and distortion.
Even today, when digital technology allows electronic musical instruments to simulate any sound imaginable, people seek the warm harmonics and distortion produced by analog vacuum tubes. This distinctive sound has a quality beyond words that sets it apart, and cannot be captured by a response curve; it's the unmistakable sound of tubes.
The volca nubass is the first analog synth to be equipped with a Nutube new-generation vacuum tube in its oscillator. Vacuum tube plus analog means that the sound is warm, thick, and rich. The familiar transistor ladder filter gives it the character of a classic bass machine, along with overdrive, and huge-sounding distortion.
An acid bass machine for a new generation combines classic sound with the power of modern synthesizer design. It's the volca nubass.
The fusion of a newly developed vacuum tube oscillator with a classic ladder filter
A vacuum tube oscillator circuit forms the heart of volca nubass, utilizing groundbreaking Nutube technology
The Nutube is equipped with two vacuum tubes; one is used in the oscillator to generate a sawtooth wave or square wave. The other vacuum tube is used in the drive circuit of the sub oscillator, adding depth and warmth one octave below the oscillator. This oscillator and sub oscillator provide a circuit structure that brings out the harmonic character that only a real vacuum tube could provide.
A transistor ladder low-pass filter that produces a distinctive sound
The low-pass filter defines the sound of this bass machine; it uses a transistor ladder design found on classic analog bass synths. This filter is uniquely dynamic in the way it affects a sound more than just ranging from bright-to-dark. Its wide range of timbral possibilities makes it ideal for a broad variety of dance music; you can use it to create the distinctive modulation that can be heard in acid house, or increase the resonance to bring out a sharp character that's appropriate for techno.
Analog driver circuit
nubass is equipped with overdrive that uses an analog circuit reminiscent of a classic stompbox. Turning the knob toward the right compresses the volume while causing mild distortion, adding thickness to your bass sounds. The tone knob also lets you adjust the crispness of the high-frequency range.
volca sequencer makes performing and composing simple and intuitive
A 16-step sequencer that lets you automate parameters
"KORG’s latest polyphonic analog synth, minilogue xd, took the minilogue, the most popular synthesizer of the past decade, to an entirely new level. Now, that same extraordinarily powerful synthesizer platform is available in a compact desktop module. Welcome to the minilogue xd Module."
Playlist:
KORG minilogue xd Module: Your Desktop, Evolved.
Korg Minilogue XD Module - Overview with Nick Kwas | Kraft Music
Korg Minilogue XD Module - All Playing No Talking! | Kraft Music
Korg Minilogue XD Module | Reverb
"The long-awaited desktop module of KORG’s next-generation analog synthesizer
minilogue xd module is the new desktop module version of minilogue xd, the four-voice polyphonic analog synthesizer with a customizable digital multi-engine and built-in stereo digital effects.
The desktop module is equipped with the same controllers as the keyboard version, making it a great choice not only as an additional sound module for your keyboard or DAW but also providing excellent performability, giving you an easy way to include an analog polyphonic synth in your setup. It's also equipped with a poly-chain function that lets you connect it with another minilogue xd or minilogue xd module so that the two units can operate as a polysynth with a total of up to eight voices in your studio or on stage.
Add the sounds of the minilogue xd to your setup or system!
Equipped with an analog synthesizer circuit and a digital multi-engine
Voice structure of minilogue xd is 2VCO + MULTI ENGINE, 1VCF, 2EG, 1VCA, and 1LFO. In addition to the distinctive circuits found in the series, such as wave shaping to shape the overtones of the oscillator and a sync/ring switch, there's also cross modulation, a two-pole filter that can be both sharp and fat, and a drive switch that adds thickness and drives signal into minilogue xd’s filter. Every parameter has been tuned in detail based on what musicians want out of their synth. The sounds range from the warm pads typical of analog to fat basses and crisp lead sounds, covering every situation.
The additional sound design possibilities of digital sound are delivered by the multi-engine: the third oscillator in addition to the two analog VCOs. This engine, which is equipped with three different types of sound generator (noise, VPM, and open-source user oscillators) lets you take advantage of a sonic character that's different than analog, and use it at the same time as the analog engine, infinitely expanding xd module’s potential through hybrid sound design.
High-quality digital effects
minilogue xd’s high-quality digital effects use 32-bit floating point DSP processing, adding a finishing touch to its deep sound design platform. The three types (modulation effects, reverb, and delay) can be used simultaneously, letting you choose from a wide range of variations including chorus, ensemble, warm tape delay, and a diverse variety of reverb. The user effect slots allow you to load your own effect programs that you've created.
"The most exciting and surprising news I've found here at NAMM 2020 is Korg's announcement that they are re-releasing the legendary ARP 2600, in a limited run. Nick Kwas from Korg tells us what the scoop is."
