Gamechanger Motor Synth MKII - Sonic LAB Presentation

video upload by sonicstate

"The @GamechangerAudio Motor Synth MKII is an interesting instrument. One we've known about for some time, but only really heard it do dirty and aggressive sounds. In this presentation, we explore some of the features and also hear some of its sweeter side.
At its heart are 8 drone grade brushless motors that generate the oscillators - for up to four voices. There's a pair of analog filters, a third DCO, envelopes, sequencer, arpeggiator and CV control with a comprehensive mod matrix. Its a most unusual instrument.
€2,726 + Taxes"

00:00:00 Playing
00:00:59 Intro and background
00:04:23 The M Wave
00:07:44 Unison
00:12:32 Waveforms
00:17:09 physical noise
00:18:54 Filter
00:22:21 DCO
00:24:05 Sounds
00:26:58 CV control
00:36:50 Wrap

Expressive E OSMOSE Synth JAM - Friday Fun

video upload by sonicstate

"More exclusive footage for this on: http://patreon.com/sonicstate
#fridayfunsynthjam #osmose #rc505

We've been lucky enough to get hold of an Osmose - which is the new keyboard instrument from Expressivee.com .

We've been struck by the way it encourages you to create, the extra expressivity afforded by the per key pressure and lateral movement is a joy. It sort of pushes you to go for notes one might not ordinarily attempt - obviously thats not without risks 😁

Each of the on-board patches that take advantage of the Eagan Matrix - the physical modelling engine at the heart of this instrument are almost like an instrument in their own right, with expressivity allowing for quite drastic timbral changes, whether it be velocity, initial pressure, secondary pressure or lateral movement of each key!

However, its not all good news, the editor for the Eagan Matrix only runs in MaxForLive and frankly is a nightmare, assuming you can actually get it running. We've not managed that yet.

But there are a four macro knobs per patch, plus the additional mod wheel and keyboard modulations for each of these as well as editing of the master FX, EQ, compression and drive - so you can modify a lot.

We love it so far."

UDO Audio Super Gemini - Presentation Sonic LAB

video upload by sonicstate

"Always a pleasure to spend time in the company of George Hearn from UDO Audio, and especially as he brought the production ready Super Gemini poly synth with him.
The Super Gemini is now officially shipping, units are leaving the buillding and soon the 20 voice (10 in binaural mode) FPGA oscillator equipped synth will be making its way into the hands of those lucky folks whov'e ordered one.
Two FPGA oscillators per voice, (with 3rd trackable LFO), Analogue filter, analogue VCA with two discrete synth layers that can be played in two 5 voice each (binaural oscillator mode), or 10 voice per synth, each with discrete controls and chorus/delay FX.
In the hands of George it sounds wonderful, - in fact if you are an upper tier supporter, we've posted some additional playing in another post to whet your whistle.
Its not cheap, ut you do get a heck of a lot of synthesizer for your money..
Super Gemini is shipping and available now priced at £3799 from all good retailers."

Soundtoys Effect Rack and Super Plate - Sonic LAB Presentation

video upload by sonicstate

"Soundtoys Deals: http://soundtoys.com http://patreon.com/sonicstate

Black Friday is almost upon us, and as is customary, we catch up with Tony from Soundtoys, who takes us through a processing ideas using elements of the SoundToys 5, Effect Rack and the Super Plate.
Currently SoundToys are giving away Little Plate (usually $99) and also heavily discounting their range for the sale period - currently around 50% savings to be had on the SoundToys 5 bundle ($249 from $499) and Effect Rack ($149 from $299) with up to 80% on individual plug-ins.

Effect Rack consists of 14 SoundToys Plug-ins:
Crystallizer, Decapitator, Devil-Loc Deluxe, EchoBoy, EchoBoy Jr., FilterFreak, FilterFreak 2, MicroShift, PanMan, PhaseMistress, PrimalTap, Radiator, Sie-Q, and Tremolator.

Note: SuperPlate can be used within Effect Rack V5.4 when you purchase and add a SuperPlate license to add to your Effect Rack plug-in. SuperPlate is NOT included with your Effect Rack plug-in purchase.

For more information:
https://www.soundtoys.com/"

Norand Mono MKII Unique Hybrid Mono - Sonic LAB Review

video upload by sonicstate

"We're looking at the Norand Mono MKII, we first saw this at Superbooth earlier in the year and were impressed with the unique approach to modulation.
The analog oscillators and 3 pole filter are at the heart of the sound, and in addition, there's an FPGA processor that allows for complex manipulation and routing of the control voltages.

Sonically, its a great synthesis playground even though there are some quirky areas - for instance bi-polar square wave mod of Oscillator pitch will rarely reach perfect intervals due to the calibration required to reach the impressive 7/8Octaves of key tracking.

Currently available prices at around £749/839 Euros
https://norand.io/monomk2

More exclusive content for this review on our Patreon
http://patreon.com/sonicstate

|--------|
00:00 Start
00:24 Intro
05:36 Oscillators
10:37 3 Pole Filter
14:08 Sounds
16:42 Undo/Redo
18:33 Mod Notes
28:48 Sequencer
30:11 Conclusion"

Alessandro Cortini + MATTHS Rig Tour

video upload by sonicstate

"Alessandro Cortini played a rare UK gig last weekend, and regular Sonic TALK panelist Matt Hodson AKA MATTHS was booked in the support slot.

We figured it was a great opportunity to have them talk about their gear selection and approach to the performance.

Alessandro opted for something minimal to support his completely improvised approach, with two Make Noise Strega (these were designed in conjunction with Alessandro) and two 0-CTRL - sequencer/CV controllers, Strymon Blue Sky and Volante all into an Allen and Heath Zone 96 DJ mixer, the laptop runs Resolume visuals for the show.

http://cortini.bandcamp.com

Matths has a different approach basing his set around pre writtern material and re-voicing larger modular rig, with the Knobula Poly Cinematic for chords, 1010music Bit Box for triggering CV and gates, the Expert Sleepers ES-9 running from the laptop for triggers from Bitwig, the Soma Pulsar-23, Beatstep

Matt uses an analogue parallel compression path to give the stereo feed to front of house a more consistent polished sound.

https://matths.bandcamp.com/

We have a full 360 Video of MATTHS set available on our Patreon
and also on MATTHS Bandcamp
http://patreon.com/sonicstate

|--------|
00:00 Alessandro Cortini interview
13:55 MATTHS interview"

Knobcon 23: JoMox Moonwind MKII Audio Demo

video upload by sonicstate

"Michael from Voltage Audio gave us a demo of the JoMox at Knobcon 2023, the Moonwind Mark II is a stereo filter with a sequencer and some improvements from the first version, including a touchpad where users can edit the cutoff steps and an inbuilt effects processor.

The Moonwind Mark II will be available fall 2023.

Moonwind Price: around 850 Euros

Mod FM Price: 1,000 Euros"

Knobcon 23:Infrasonic Warp Core Dual Oscillator

video upload by sonicstate

"At Knobcon 2023, we had the pleasure of speaking with Nick from Infrasonic Audio as he unveiled his debut Eurorack module, the Warp Core. This innovative stereo phase distortion oscillator presents a range of compelling features for the modular synth community. Warp Core boasts eight distinct phase distortion algorithms and two slots for customization, offering up to 64 different combinations. With intuitive controls and CV inputs, users can fine-tune the timbral qualities of their soundscapes. This unique digital synthesis module is non-linear in nature, with the order of algorithms impacting the resulting sonic textures. Its stereo capabilities with zero and 90-degree outputs allow for spatial and timbral exploration. Additionally, onboard phase modulation and an external phase modulation input expand the creative possibilities, with the latter capable of pushing sounds into uncharted territory. Furthermore, Warp Core's precise tuning system ensures accurate pitch calibration and tuning convenience for live performances. With a range of features and a price point of $375, Warp Core is now available for purchase on the Infrasonic Audio website.

Intriguingly, Nick also mentioned an upcoming expander for Warp Core that will transform it into a complete voice, adding an envelope and VCA. While the price for the expander hasn't been finalized, it's expected to be an affordable addition to enhance the module's capabilities further. With its unique synthesis possibilities and precision tuning, the Warp Core module brings a fresh and creative dimension to the world of Eurorack synthesis. If you're interested in exploring this innovative module, you can find it on Infrasonic Audio's website at infrasonicaudio.com."

Knobcon 23: MIDI Blaster and Noise Machine

video upload by sonicstate

"At Knobcon 2023, we caught up with Zach from this.is.noise inc to check out their latest offerings, the Noise Machine and the MIDI Blaster. The Noise Machine is a compact Bluetooth MIDI controller that boasts 12 buttons, each assigned to send different MIDI notes, making it a versatile tool for music production. Alongside the buttons, an effects knob lets you manipulate your assigned effects, while a bank slider offers access to various button configurations, including drum and sample chopping banks. The Noise Machine is designed to be compatible with a range of platforms, including iOS, iPadOS, Mac, Windows, and any system that accepts Bluetooth MIDI. Its low latency, under 10 milliseconds, ensures that it performs almost as quickly as USB MIDI, making it a valuable addition to the arsenal of music creators seeking a portable and responsive MIDI controller. The Noise Machine is available for $99, and you can find it on the this.is.noise inc website.

In addition to the Noise Machine, Zach also showcased the MIDI Blaster, a unique MIDI controller that operates like an infrared theremin, translating hand movements into MIDI CC or MPE notes. While you won't hear the sounds directly from the MIDI Blaster, it offers a fascinating way to control MIDI parameters with hand gestures, adding an innovative dimension to music creation. The MIDI Blaster, priced at $200, is another intriguing option for musicians and producers looking to explore creative MIDI control possibilities. To purchase these products and learn more about this.is.noise inc, visit their website at thisisnoiseinc.com, where you can explore these unique controllers and find additional details and purchase options."

Knobcon 23: NDLR 2 Updates

video upload by sonicstate

"At Knobcon 2023, we had the pleasure of chatting with Steve from Conductive Labs, who introduced us to the NDLR 2. This innovative sequencer has recently been re-released, addressing previous chip supply challenges that had temporarily halted its production. The NDLR 2 is a multi-track sequencer with an innate understanding of music theory. What sets it apart is its chord-changing capabilities, which occur seamlessly when you modify the chord structure, making it a valuable tool for musicians seeking an intuitive and chord-aware sequencer. Furthermore, Steve unveiled an exciting new feature – the Rotator algorithm, contributed by Robbie Kilgore, which transforms monophonic notes into triads, opening up exciting possibilities, particularly for jazz enthusiasts. The NDLR 2 is currently available for $379, and with its fresh feature and ample stock of 1,000 units, it's poised to be a valuable addition for musicians and producers looking to streamline their sequencing and composition process.

For more details on the NDLR 2 and to stay updated on its availability and features, visit the Conductive Labs website at ConductiveLabs.com. The NDLR 2's unique chord-aware sequencing and the newly introduced Rotator algorithm make it a compelling choice for musicians who seek creative control and expressiveness in their music production."

Knobcon 23: Take The Wildwood Express To Music Town

video upload by sonicstate

"Knobcon 2023 showcased an intriguing product by Wildwood Soundworks, as we spoke to Tony about the Wildwood Express.

This digital sequencer and synthesizer presents a unique blend of features, boasting a capacitive touch sensor-based interface. With an innovative one-octave keyboard that's part of an eight-octave range, the Wildwood Express allows users to craft music with ease. It features a chord selector, strum plate, and one-octave keypad, enabling you to select chords, roots, and strum them individually or in sequence.

Furthermore, this device serves as a MIDI input and output hub, making it compatible with external MIDI controllers or digital audio workstations. With features like internal flash storage, a built-in web server, and the ability to read and write standard MIDI files, the Wildwood Express offers a range of creative possibilities for musicians and composers.

The Wildwood Express is an enticing option for those seeking an affordable and handmade sequencer and synthesizer. Priced at $199.99 during the show and $249.99 on Etsy, this handcrafted device features a hardwood base and is meticulously assembled in Penn Valley, California. You can explore its capabilities further on their website, WildwoodSoundworks.com, where you'll find detailed descriptions, videos, and links to their Etsy shop. With its unique interface and versatile MIDI capabilities, the Wildwood Express opens up new avenues for music creation and experimentation."

Knobcon 23:Hive Mind Eurorack Pixie Dancefloor Module

video upload by sonicstate

"At Knobcon 2023, we caught up with Mike from Hive Mind Synthesis to get a closer look at their innovative products. One of their standout offerings is the Honey Light to CV module, a unique device that converts various light sources, whether it's sunlight, ambient light, or LEDs, into voltage. Demonstrating its capabilities, Mike showcased how shining a flashlight across it could impact the LFO and filter settings, all of which can be adjusted to positive or negative voltage. Hive Mind offers this versatile module in four different colors, making it a perfect addition to your synth setup. The best part? These light-to-CV modules are available at an affordable price point, with a single module priced at $35, and you can grab two for $60 or four for $100, making it an enticing addition for synth enthusiasts looking for an affordable and creative addition to their setups.

Another noteworthy product from Hive Mind Synthesis is the Pixie Dance Floor, a DIY Eurorack building platform designed for circuit enthusiasts. It simplifies the process of moving circuits from breadboards to your modular rack. The Pixie Dance Floor provides positive and negative 12-volt rails, complete with a power switch for easy on/off control during circuit experimentation. With six jacks, two pots, and two switches, it offers all the necessary tools for building your custom circuits within your Eurorack setup. The best part? The full kit, including all components, is priced at an incredibly accessible $50, making it a valuable resource for modular enthusiasts eager to tinker with their own creations. If you're looking to dive into the world of modular synthesis and circuit building, Hive Mind Synthesis has you covered with these practical and budget-friendly offerings.

For more information and to explore these exciting products further, visit Hive Mind Synthesis at their website: http://HiveMindSynthesis.com."

Knobcon 23:Circuit Happy Missing Link Junior

video upload by sonicstate

"Back at KnobCon 2023, (yeah we know its been a while - lets just say there was data recovery in play) Ed Guild from Circuit Happy unveiled their latest innovation, the Missing Link Junior.

The Missing Link Junior is the successor to the original Missing Link Desktop, which faced challenges in production due to parts shortages and manufacturing issues. To overcome these hurdles, Ed went back to the drawing board and completely rebuilt the device, leveraging the hardware platform of their previous product, ML2. The result is a clock generator with enhanced robustness, addressing previous jitter issues.

This new hardware promises a seamless clock output, ensuring precision in synchronization for music production. The Missing Link Junior features Ableton Link integration, allowing it to synchronize with other devices over Wi-Fi, even if they are not running Ableton Live, making it an essential tool for any musician looking to maintain tempo and timing consistency during performances. The device also boasts a handy safety feature that allows users to reset synced devices in case they fall out of sync. With a proper MIDI port and analog sync outputs, the Missing Link Junior offers a more modular-centric option for those looking to expand their music setup.

The product is expected to hit the shelves in two to three weeks, with a price tag of $240 USD, while the previous model, ML2, is priced at $215 USD.

For more information on the Missing Link Junior and Circuit Happy's range of music production tools, visit their website at Circuit Happy."

FIVE MINUTES WITH The Tiny 1010music Tangerine Sampler

video upload by sonicstate

"The newest in the 1010music nano-box range, the Tangerine packs a lot of power into a tiny box, perhaps moreso than previous models. With 24 voices of stereo sample playback, and 8 channels of stereo disc streaming its a clip launcher, one-shot sample, multi-sample instrument solution.

Chris B from @BOOelectric takes a break from their album launch (check it out, its a goodie) to take a look.

The only downsides we can see is the limited single stereo output (two would have been fab!), and the cost - as you might want more than one of these to handle live duties if discrete outputs are required.

Tangerine is shipping November 2023, priced at $399
https://1010music.com/product/tangerine"

Knobula Pianophonic - Poly Wavetable Synth review by MATTHS for Sonic LAB

video upload by sonicstate

"Another polyphonic module from Knobula, who are making a habit of this sort of thing. Pianophonic is an 8 voice Wavetable multi-sample player with a unique mix of multisample front end (Hammer portion) and a wavetable sustain/release portion (Sides). These can be blended and controlled and mixed and matched from the 24bit/48kHz samples stored on the front panel mounted microSD card.

And yes you can created your own samples using their own Waveslicer utility.
There's also Unison and detune with three oscillators cloned per voice, compress/overdrive and a delightful Reverb.

@matthsmatthsmatths gives us his take on the unit.

Available now priced at £420/$449

http://knobula.com

00:00 Start
00:43 Intro and Overview
08:56 Sound Components
15:24 Sounds
18:42 Connections
19:54 Examples
26:20 CV modulation
28:15 Conclusion"

APC64 Ableton Live Controller | Touch the Future | Akai Professional

video upload by AkaiProVideo

"Touch the Future and discover new musical possibilities with APC64. With 64 vibrant RGB pads featuring poly-aftertouch, 8 assignable Touch Strips, and a standalone Step Sequencer, APC64 is the revolutionary Ableton Live hardware controller that will unveil a new world of musical inspiration for next-level production and performance.

Watch prolific finger drumming performer Carl Rag display a masterful exhibition of APC64 now.

Visit https://www.akaipro.com/apc64.html now to learn more about APC64 or to find a dealer near you."

Akai APC64 First Look - Sonic LAB Presentation

video upload by sonicstate

"The brand new APC64, switches things up with a deeply integrated 64 RGB pad type surface, that Push users will feel right at home with. But with the APC64, you also get 8 assignable Touch Strips, with multiple modes of usage - you can control, the mixer, FX sends Devices and generic MIDI CCs, as well as the 64 RGB, pressure and velocity sensitive pads for clip launching or sequencing.

The other big news is that APC64 also has a standalone mode with 8 sequencers, up to 32 steps each that can send note data over MIDI via the two minijack outputs (there's also a MIDI input) and 8 assignable CV or Gate 1/8th inch jack outs to control your external synths, or modular.

Power is supplied over USB-C, with a dedicated power switch, and there's a small but useful AMOLED display and rotary encoder for parameter access, although you can access most via the pads themselves in setup mode.

There are also dedicated Project memories for storing setups and sequences - these can be chained for more song type structures.

The on board sequencer can be used as a standalone device, or integrated into the Live setup with patterns that can be sent back to Live and auto create clips.

We had a visit from Tom Robinson (@duncan_thomas_music) to give us the low down in this first look at the unit.

APC64 will be available worldwide at a price of £359 MSRP

00:45 Overview and Live integration
3:30 Touchstrips, Note and Drum Modes
5:50 Connections
06:30 Ableton Live integration
08:50 Generic MIDI control
09:30 Internal Sequencer
11:23 Standalone mode"

AKAI APC64 Review // Pros and cons vs APC40 MK2, Push, LaunchPad and others // APC 64 tutorial

video upload by loopop

TIMELINE:
0:00 Intro
1:40 Overview
2:05 Grid modes
4:30 Fader modes
6:30 Seq mode
8:40 Buttons
9:35 Screen
10:35 Build
11:00 I/O
11:50 Note mode
12:45 Chord mode
13:20 Drum modes
14:00 Ableton Live
14:30 Live rec
15:15 Quantization
16:05 Automation
17:00 Step seq
17:45 Seq settings
18:40 Modifiers
20:10 Seq live rec
21:45 Performance
22:15 Important tips
22:25 Poly AT v MPE
23:00 Device params
23:50 More buttons!
25:20 Device lock?
25:55 Seq + Live
26:40 Note repeats?
26:55 Latency
27:30 Pros and cons
32:15 Outro

New Batch of Synthfest UK 23 Videos

video uploads by sonicstate

Playlist: (you can use the player controls to skip around)

1. Synthfest UK 23: Sequential - Trigon 6 Desktop

At SynthFest UK 2023, we had the opportunity to chat with Chris from Sequential, a part of the Focusrite group. Chris introduced us to the Trigon 6 Desktop, the latest addition to Sequential's synthesizer lineup. This compact desktop version of the Trigon 6 packs a powerful punch, offering three oscillators and a distinctive Dave Smith ladder filter. Designed for those seeking a space-saving solution without compromising on sound quality, the Trigon 6 Desktop retains all the features of its larger sibling, including patch recall, a versatile effects section with various modulation possibilities, and the distinctive feedback control that allows you to sculpt sub-harmonic richness.

Trigon 6 Desktop Price: $2,499

https://www.sequential.com/

2. Synthfest UK 2023: Calc And the Prophet X

At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with Calc from Sequential, and he gave us the lowdown on the Prophet X. Now, you might be thinking, Prophet X? Haven't we seen that before? Well, you're right, but this hybrid instrument has been quietly making waves in the music world. It combines digital and analog elements, with digital oscillators and a unique twist in the form of multi-sample-based instruments. Yes, you heard that right, it's not just your run-of-the-mill synth; it's a full-on sampler too, boasting an impressive 50 gigabytes of memory for your custom samples. You can treat it like a rompler, a sample player, or even use those samples as oscillators, creating a whole new realm of sonic possibilities.

Plus, it's packed with stereo goodness, allowing you to explore a wide soundstage with ease. It's not your typical synth, and that's what makes its a favourute of Calc's

Looking for some more info on the Prophet X? Check out Sequential's official page: www.sequential.com/prophet-x/

CLICK FOR MORE »

Synthfest UK 23 New Videos

video uploads by sonicstate

Playlist:

1. Synthfest UK 23: MyVolts - Nifty USB Power Solutions

At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with Caroline from MyVolts, and they've added to their panoply of useful power solutions for musicians. MyVolts showcased their new product, the Alchemist power distribution hub, which harnesses the versatility of USB-C to deliver various voltages from 5V to 20V. This means you can power a range of equipment, from vintage synths to modern gear, with one device. They've also taken their USB power innovation to the next level with a step-up 12V power tip, allowing users to draw 18W from USB to power gear like the Electron Analog Four on the go. MyVolts aims to simplify power management for musicians, addressing issues like earthing and noise, and they're actively seeking input from the community to fine-tune their solutions.

In addition to the Alchemist power hub, MyVolts will be releasing their own power banks, USB-C power cables with wattage indicators, and a range of power tips compatible with various voltages. This expansion means users can power a wide range of devices efficiently and conveniently. These products are expected to be available around February or March. MyVolts encourages you to fill out their survey to help them better understand and solve the unique power challenges musicians face.

https://myvolts.co.uk/

2. Synthfest UK 23: Rides In The Storm - SED CSM Synth Voice

At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with Uwe from Rides In The Storm to get a glimpse of their upcoming modular synth voice module, the SED CSM. This module is a powerhouse of sound design possibilities, offering a wide range of features packed into a single unit. With two oscillator sections, three waveform options, pulse width modulation, and a wave folder, there's plenty of sonic flexibility on tap.

The SED CSM also includes a robust mixer section, a ring modulator, wave folder, noise source, and an external input, expanding its sound-shaping capabilities. Uwe demonstrated how the module can be used for lush soundscapes and dynamic modulation with its various features. SED CSM offers envelope generators with loopable modes and versatile LFOs and filter options.

SED CSM Price: around £390

3. Synthfest UK 23: Analogue Solutions - Ample Desktop Pin matrix

We returned to the Analogue Solutions booth to chat again with Tom who showed us the second synth he’s released this year, Ample. Ample is a 3 VCO synth which combines some of the greatest bits of other Analogue Solutions synths, including a patch pin matrix similar to the Vostok, a sequencer taken from the generator, an interval generator similar to that on the Fusebox, and a 24dB filter akin to that of the Pro One. It even has the same delay circuit from the new Maximus.

There are 3 types of pin for the pin matrix with resistances of 0 ohms on the black pin 10k ohms on the red one and blue giving a value of 100k, which allows for more flexibility in attenuating the signals you patch. Tom told us that Ample is particularly suited to percussion, with its snappy filter, and various clock sources available, and though Ample is in a desktop format, Tom has given us plenty of space between the controls so no accidental knob bumping can occur.

Available October 23

Ample Price: around £2000 plus vat

4. Synthfest UK 23: Expert Sleepers - Analogue Modules

At Synthfest UK 2023, we had the chance to chat with Os from Expert Sleepers, known for their versatile digital modules. However, Os has been exploring the analog side of modular synthesis and has introduced a range of eight analog modules.

Among the analog modules, Os showcased a squelchy filter, oscillators with unconventional sine wave cores, and an intriguing octave fuzz effect. He emphasized that these analog modules offer a different approach to sound generation and signal processing compared to their digital counterparts. Os also pointed out that once an analog module is designed and built, it's a finished product, offering a sense of completeness that's distinct from the continuous updates often associated with digital modules.

Expert Sleepers Analogue modules Prices: from £159

5. Synthfest UK 23: Yamaha - DM3 - Super Compact Digital Mixer

At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with Chris from Yamaha to take a look at their latest offering, the DM3 digital mixer. This compact 16-input mixer packs some impressive features into a small footprint, making it suitable for a variety of applications. With a focus on pro audio and audio versatility, the DM3 boasts brand-new microphone preamps inspired by Yamaha's high-end CL and QL series, ensuring top-notch audio quality. Operating at 96 kHz, the DM3 offers pristine audio resolution. We have to admit, we're all Gassing for this one...

The DM3 boasts a touchscreen interface, complemented by touch-and-turn knobs for tactile control. This innovative combination allows users to efficiently navigate and control the mixer's parameters. The DM3 can also serve as an audio interface, providing 18 in and 18 out over USB, making it an excellent choice for recording and streaming applications. With a compact and portable design, this mixer is versatile enough for live gigs, corporate events, podcasting, and studio work.

DM3 Standard Model Price: Around £1,500

DM3 Dante-Enabled Price: Around £2,000

6. Synthfest UK 23: Tone Science - Triple Cross - Chance Delay

At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with Ian Boddy from DIN Records, known for his prolific work in the electronic music scene. While DIN Records is celebrating its 25th anniversary next year, Ian has expanded his creative endeavors with the release of two modules under the sub-label Tone Science in collaboration with AJH Synth. The Triple Cross module offers versatile signal manipulation capabilities, enabling crossfading, morphing, panning, with non-synchronous LFOs and DC-coupled outputs. The Chance Delay module introduces a unique concept of probability-driven gate delay. Musicians can control the likelihood of triggers passing through, allowing for rhythmically intricate and ever-changing sequences. These modules are designed to enhance the performative aspect of modular synthesis, providing musicians with dynamic tools for evolving soundscapes and rhythmic complexity.

Triple Cross Price: £260

Chance Delay Price: £175

7. Synthfest UK 23: 1010 Music - Bluebox Eurorack Edition

At Synthfest UK 2023, we had the opportunity to chat with Steve from 1010 Music about their latest creation, the Bluebox Eurorack Edition. This module was born out of customer demand, as users of the original Blue Box desktop unit clamored for a Eurorack-compatible version. The Bluebox Eurorack Edition packs all the power and versatility of the desktop version but with a few key differences. It offers mono inputs and outputs that can be combined into stereo, six CV inputs for mapping to various parameters, and two dedicated USB-C ports—one for MIDI and the other for USB audio. This means you can connect your Blue Box to a Mac, PC, or iPad, send and receive audio tracks, and still record all 12 tracks, plus a master track and two effects sends, separately on a micro SD card. An upcoming firmware update will also bring stereo audio in both directions to the Blue Box Desktop Edition, offering even more flexibility in routing and recording. With its compact 30 HP size and thoughtful design, the Bluebox Eurorack Edition also offers a clock output bridging the gap between hardware and software seamlessly.

Bluebox Eurorack Edition Price: $699

8. Synthfest UK 23: Nonlinear Labs - C15 - Software Updates

At Synthfest UK 2023, we had a conversation with Tim from Nonlinear Labs, the creators of the highly expressive C15 synthesizer. Tim shared some exciting updates that have recently been implemented with the inclusion of LFOs via looping envelopes providing musicians with more sonic versatility. The C15's unique concept, based on a two-operator FM synthesis engine, remains intact, but these new LFO capabilities expand its sonic palette. Tim also showcased the expanded key tracking options, which can stretch pitches to create unique tonal textures. Furthermore, he highlighted the new twin-engine feature, which allows for cascading delays and creating captivating stereo soundscapes. Tim also hinted at future developments that owners of this expressive synthesizer can look forward to.

C15 Black Price: 4,300 Euros (incl. VAT)

C15 Cherry Wood Price: 4,750 Euros (incl. VAT)

9. Synthfest UK 23: Kenton - LNDX Midi Line Driver

At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with John from Kenton Electronics to check out their latest offering, the LNDX Line Driver, a handy solution for extending MIDI signals over long distances. Designed to address the challenges of maintaining stable MIDI connections in large venues and studios, the Line Driver utilizes Cat5 cables to transmit MIDI signals up to an impressive 500 meters. It's an ideal tool for live gigs in massive stadiums or situations where the control center is far from the performance area. The Line Driver features LEDs to monitor both the incoming and outgoing MIDI signals, providing essential feedback for troubleshooting and ensuring signal integrity. This straightforward and robust solution adds reliability to any MIDI setup, whether it's in the music industry, broadcasting, or even unconventional applications like flight simulators. With its opto-isolation and straightforward connectivity, the Line Driver is set to become an essential tool for professionals seeking rock-solid MIDI signal transmission over long distances.

LNDR pair Price: £127.92

10. Synthfest UK 23: Sweet Discrete - Synth Panel Restoration

At Synthfest UK 2023, we had a chat with Craig from Sweet Discrete, a company specializing in unique synth restoration and custom creations. Craig showcased their latest endeavor, which goes beyond their well-known synth overlays. Sweet Discrete has taken on the ambitious task of restoring classic synths like the Jupiter 8 to their former glory. These aren't just simple restorations; they're meticulous, artisanal processes, involving lead loading to remove rust and imperfections, followed by precise silkscreening. What's more, Sweet Discrete manufactures exact replica shells for various synth models, offering three versions for the Jupiter 8 alone. They've even delved into MIDI mods for the Jupiter 8, bringing modern convenience to these vintage gems.

Beyond their cosmetic work, Sweet Discrete is exploring the possibility of delving into electronics and design for synthesizers. With a keen focus on quality and precision, they're making a name for themselves in the world of synth restoration and custom solutions. To learn more about their offerings and explore the range of products, visit their website

See the SYNTHFEST UK label for more coverage of this year's event.

Synthfest UK 23: Analogue Solutions - Maximus - 8 Voice Monster

video upload by sonicstate

"At Synthfest UK 2023, we caught up with Tom from Analogue Solutions who gave us our first hands-on look at the Maximus Analog Synthesizer. While it might not be as colossal as its predecessor, the Colossus, the Maximus still packs a punch. This beast features 8 individual voices, each with its own sequencer, giving musicians the flexibility to craft a wide range of sounds, from lush pads to percussion elements. Maximus employs a vintage-inspired approach to tuning, with no central control, harking back to the 1970s ethos of hands-on control. While it is capable of huge polyphonic patches, Tom's vision for the Maximus is to offer musicians the ability to create diverse sequences and utilize the voices independently, allowing for rich sonic exploration. With its voltage-controlled filter and multi-mode options, it's clear that the Maximus draws inspiration from classic analog synths like the Oberheim SEM. Additionally, it boasts a five-octave keyboard with aftertouch and a unique touchplate with triggering and flexible CV capabilities. Analogue Solutions has embraced a normalization approach, making patching a breeze, while also providing the option to switch out circuits for advanced sound design. The Maximus also offers delay and spring reverb effects, further expanding its sonic palette.

With the first production run already sold out, tom is busy crafting the next batch and the Maximus should become available again in November 2023.

Analogue Solutions Maximus Price: £22,500"

You can find additional Analogue Solutions Maximus posts here.

Synthfest UK 23: Yamaha - FGDP-50 Fingerdrum - Nice

video upload by sonicstate

"At Synthfest UK 2023, we had a chat with Simon from Yamaha about their latest venture into the world of finger drumming with the FGDP finger drum pad. Yamaha may not be the first name that comes to mind for finger drumming, but they've entered the game with a fresh perspective. The FGDP-50 features a unique pad layout designed for ergonomic and intuitive finger drumming. With 18 pads thoughtfully distributed in a compact space, players can easily create intricate rhythms with a single hand. This pad isn't just about drumming; it offers three key functions: finger controller, DAW controller, and a session mode for playing internal songs and jamming along.

Beyond the layout, the FGDP-50 boasts 1500 sounds and offers flexible assignment options, making it versatile for both beginners and experienced drummers. It can function as a MIDI expander for electronic drum kits, and its USB audio capabilities allow for direct recording and playback without the need for a computer.

FGDP-50 Price: £220

https://uk.yamaha.com/en/products/mus..."