"Droid Mischief" - Akai MPC X + Arturia MiniFreak + ASM Hydrasynth + Novation BassStation II

video upload by Patrick Manderson

"'Droid Mischief' was recorded live late afternoon on Friday August 25, 2023 using a MIDI sequencer and a room full of synthesizers and drum machines. Three analog mixers were used with a rack of ouboard effects mixed in stereo and recorded. Mixing and automation was controlled by the sequencer directly to the synthesizers. The final recording required manual adjustments and muting of the of mixer channels to suppress the noise coming from some of the devices. Video was recorded weeks after afterwards.

'Droid Mischief' was inspired initially from a previous composition utilizing a number of budget analog synths from Behringer. At [3:35] these synth along with the everpresent Novation BassStation II play a series of bleeps and bloops with a backdrop of ominous vocal grunts and breaths by the *Korg MS2000*. Each of the Behringer analog synths were patched for their perspective parts with CV modulating their volumes from the *Akai MPC X*.

Three patches were programmed for the Xenomorph voice on the *Korg MS2000*. Each utilizing the Korg's distortion. Dual patches were used to mix breathing noise and throat noise with velocities. [0:24], [1:53], [3:21]

The second part 'The Feast', is anchored by a groove using syncopated bass notes on the ASM Hydrasynth and percussive embilishments using AFX-MODE on the *Novation BassStation II*. Note: 4-5 stacked BassStations w/AFX-MODE would make an incredible sounding percussion synthesizer.

The Korg Radias is always present with its flexible 16 voice drum kit filled with various bottom frequencies, mid and high filtered noises layered and mixed with various modulations to make all sorts of lovely percussions [3:30]. Vocal 'Ahhs' embelish the suspensful parts [3:46], [4:45].

Dave Smith Instruments Prophet REV2 filled in a number of spaces, most notably the drama strings at [4:36] with the Roland JP-8080.

Eight patches were staged for use in the first half on the *Roland System-1M*. Its fidelity cuts through very nicely. I was suprised by the sound coming out of it despite the generic sounding filter. The oscillators and overall fidelity is excellent.

The Korg Minilogue and Minilogue XD take turns playing bass as well as other parts throughout. Always useful and never disappointing. The Minilogue is permanently coupled with the Drawmer DL241's gate to manage its noise.

Engine drones were provided by the Sequential Prophet 6*. It also provided additional syncopated notes with the *Hydrasynth in the last 3rd.

The delicious sounds coming from the Arturia MiniFreak was on stage throughout. Liberal use of its two macro modulations over MIDI CC-117, CC-118.

00:00 somwhere on deck D of the Nostromos
00:39 introduction
01:06 MS2000 and System-1 layered voices
01:27 buildup using BS AFX sounds layered with Rytm and Radias
01:49 Minilogue XD playing the bass
02:15 all instruments playing here
02:51 transitions with synthesized percussions
03:28 the chase
04:36 string transition with Prophet REV2*
05:00 Hydrasynth syncopation at 'The Feast'
05:49 resolved tension
06:16 finishing up with 'the groove'
07:25 synth credits"

soundmachines DS1 Introduction Video

video upload by soundmachines

"Programming a pattern on the DS1drumstation. Using Light Strips to control various parameters (hi-hats humanisation, track randomisation, track density and shuffle)"

The last time we saw the DS1 was back in 2018.

HYPNOSIS Reissue by Dreadbox / Time Effects Processor / DIY Kit

video upload by Dreadbox

"Unleash the power of 80s nostalgia with HYPNOSIS Reissue, our multi-effect unit, designed to transform your instruments into a sonic time capsule.

AVAILABLE NOW in a DIY Kit
https://www.dreadbox-fx.com/product/h...

FEATURES
BBD Chorus - Flanger
Hybrid Delay
Real Spring Reverb
2 x wide range LFOs
Wide input range
11 patch points
Desktop or Eurorack Modular format
Compact, USB powered
42HP

+ More information on HYPNOSIS Reissue:
https://www.dreadbox-fx.com/hypnosis-..."

Native Instruments Introduces New Kontrol S-Series MK3 MIDI Controller Keyboards

video uploads by Native Instruments

Press Release follows:

Berlin, September 12, 2023 – Native Instruments today announced new Kontrol S-Series MK3 MIDI controller keyboards (S49, S61, and S88), offering seamless hardware and software integration, unique expressive control, and a stunning industrial design.

Kontrol S-Series keyboard controllers are truly best in class, with powerful new features and control capabilities that enable creators to stay in the flow with an intuitive connection to instruments, effects, and DAWs, all with deep navigation on a high-res screen. They are available in three size options: 49 semi-weighted keys, 61 semi-weighted keys, or 88 fully weighted hammer-action keys.

New polyphonic aftertouch functionality allows creators to take expression further with the slightest pressure on individual keys, controlling cutoff, pitch, vibrato, and much more without reaching for an extra encoder or dial. All three models include polyphonic aftertouch on an industry-leading keybed developed in collaboration with renowned Italian manufacturer Fatar.

Kontrol S-Series controllers bring virtual instruments to life and offer a genuinely immersive experience with in-depth control via extensive Kontakt integration and next-generation Native Kontrol Standard (NKS) technology. NKS brings software instruments, effects, loops, and samples into one smooth workflow, creating seamless integration between NI software, all major DAWs, and thousands of partner sounds, instruments, and effects. This effortless integration enables creators to focus on their performance, without being distracted by the need to look at a computer screen.

All three models feature a stunning industrial design with a large glass screen, touch-sensitive anodized aluminum encoders and mod wheels, and redesigned tactile buttons. A highly visual lighting system makes it easy to stay in the creative zone with an intelligent Light Guide that illuminates switches, key zones, scales, and more.


Kontrol S-Series controllers come with a range of software that enables creators to start making music out of the box:

Komplete 14 Select is the essential production suite, including powerful synths, drums, percussion, studio-grade effects, and a wide range of customizable sounds.
Komplete Kontrol software unites and organizes instruments, effects, loops, and samples, mapping everything to the keyboard controller.
Plus: Stradivari Cello, Hypha, Guitar Rig LE, iZotope Elements Suite, and Ableton Live Lite

Top Kontrol S-Series Features:

Refined industrial design, manufactured to the highest level of quality for the best playing experience
Full-color glass display for intuitive browsing, tweaking, and mixing
Industry-leading keybed from Fatar with polyphonic aftertouch as standard
Metal-touch pitch and modulation wheels with central illumination
Unparalleled hardware/software integration with direct connection to Kontakt helps you find, adjust, and play sounds quickly and easily
Seamless integration with all major DAWs lets you control transport and mixing commands directly from the keyboard: record, stop, rewind, mix, edit, and see project channels on the display
Precision tweaking for all your sounds, pre-mapped to key instrument and effect parameters
Redesigned Light Guide pinpoints notes with a light above each key
USB, MIDI, and bus-powered USB-C connectivity plus inputs for four pedals: one sustain, one expression, and two assignable pedals

Learn more https://www.native-instruments.com/kontrolsseries

Pricing and availability
Starting today, Kontrol S-Series MK3 is available for pre-orders from www.native-instruments.com and select retailers.

Kontrol S-Series MK3 will be fully available online and in stores this October, with preorders also shipping at that time.

Kontrol S49 MK3 pricing:
€ 749,00 / $ 749,00 / JPY 107.400,00 / £ 649,00 / AUD 1.099,00 / CAD 969,00 / CHF 749,00 / CNY ¥ 5.899,00

Kontrol S61 MK3 pricing:
€ 849,00 / $ 849,00 / JPY 121.700,00 / £ 749,00 / AUD 1.299,00 / CAD 1.099,00 / CHF 849,00 / CNY ¥ 6.699,00

Kontrol S88 MK3 pricing:
€ 1.299,00 / $ 1.299,00 / JPY 186.200,00 / £ 1129,00 / AUD 1.949,00 / CAD 1.679,00 / CHF 1299,00 / CNY ¥ 9.999,00

Update:

NI Kontrol S Series MK3: The pros and cons of upgrading // S49/S61/S88 MK3 Review & tutorial

video upload by loopop

TIMELINE:
0:00 Intro
1:10 Overview
1:55 Poly AfterTouch
2:55 Modes
6:35 Panel & guides
8:05 MK3 Changes
8:40 Next-gen NKS
9:15 More AfterTouch info
10:00 Panel changes
11:30 Connectivity
11:55 Settings
12:15 Komplete Kontrol
12:50 Preset filters
14:10 Non-NKS plugins
16:05 DAW devices
17:30 FX in Komplete
18:40 Scales
19:25 Chords
19:50 Arpeggiator
21:25 Loops & samples
22:00 Kontakt 7
22:30 Multi layers
23:10 Maschine?
24:30 MK3 S88
24:45 Pros, cons
24:55 vs MK2
26:55 vs the world
28:45 Outro

iConnectivity Introduces PlayAUDIO1U Revolutionary Audio and MIDI Interface

video upload by iConnectivity

"iConnectivity's PlayAUDIO1U is designed to support live performances at the professional level. It is a deeply-thought-out, bulletproof, fail-proof, and made-to-tour interface that provides pristine audio output as well as comprehensive MIDI connectivity to your whole stage. It’s perfect for control and playback of backing tracks, virtual instruments, or almost anything else you can think of that requires computers in a live environment."

Press Release follows:

Calgary, Alberta, September 12, 2023 – iConnectivity announced PlayAUDIO1U, a revolutionary audio and MIDI interface designed specifically for live musicians. PlayAUDIO1U builds on iConnectivity’s reputation for developing bullet-proof, fail-proof solutions for live music performance. Much like its direct predecessor PlayAUDIO12, PlayAUDIO1U integrates numerous redundancy fail-safes for control and playback of backing tracks, virtual instruments, and MIDI devices.

Imagine never having to worry about your computer playback failing, ever again. Imagine an interface where not just the big things, but even all of the little things that are important to your performance were thought of… Things like seamless failover protection of audio and MIDI, XLR outs you can just plug into without direct boxes, control ports that allow you to control all of your connected computers and other hardware, onboard power that works in any part of the world with standard IEC connection, and it all fits in a tiny 1U rack! Imagine no longer…

PlayAUDIO1U by iConnectivity is here!

PlayAUDIO1U allows every working musician access to an easy, seamless, simple & straightforward failover solution.

PlayAUDIO1U fuses iConnectivity’s vast engineering knowledge of the live arena, passion for performance, and decades of experience into one product. PlayAUDIO1U ensures working musicians never suffer the embarrassment of a silent show, ever again.

PlayAUDIO1U’s secret in part is integrating two computers connected directly to the interface, forming an incredible redundancy / failover protection system. Should your main computer fail, PlayAUDIO1U switches to the backup computer in a heartbeat; so fast that you and your audience won’t even notice. Backing tracks keep playing in time and your MIDI gear stays connected. It does this all in a package that is completely designed from the ground up made-to-tour.

PlayAUDIO1U also ships with iConnectivity’s new and improved Auracle 2.0. Auracle 2.0 is fast, flexible and intelligent, allowing performers to create a sophisticated live integration of all audio and MIDI connections, inputs and outputs; Auracle lets you do it in minutes, not hours. 'PlayAUDIO1U builds on everything we learned in creating and then supporting users of our PlayAUDIO12, an interface that quickly became the industry standard,” says Al Joelson, VP of Sales and Marketing. 'This interface is designed to be an even more ready-to-gig, comprehensive solution. It’s a crazy powerhouse of audio and MIDI capability for live performance.

Key Features:

12 Balanced panel reinforced XLR outputs
Integrated +48v phantom power protection on outputs protects your interface from accidental damage when plugging directly into consoles or stage boxes
1x 1/4” TRS stereo headphone output with dedicated control for convenient headphone monitoring
2x USB C type ports for connecting computing devices
Automatic and manual computer switching modes, for lightning-fast switching between connected computers
2x two-button “Control” footswitch selectable input/outputs can be mapped to MIDI functions, control over numerous functions on the interface and/or sending control messages to compatible devices
Audio Protection helps stop unwanted noise from corrupt audio sources/files from making it into the audience
USB MIDI host port, offering up to 8 ports worth of USB MIDI for Class Compliant controllers and/or modules
DIN-MIDI port built-in (1 in 1 out)
Ethernet MIDI with 22 ports of connectivity for rugged long-distance MIDI connections
Auracle 2.0 software enables you to tailor the PlayAUDIO1U’s settings to your exact needs
“MIDI learn” from external MIDI devices to control key functions on the interface
High-resolution audio - Studio sound quality for the live arena - up to 24-bit/96kHz AD/DA conversion
Comprehensive audio mixing and routing between connected USB computing devices and analog outputs
Easy-to-use capacitive touch control and 2 rotary encoders provide software-less control over PlayAUDIO1U’s key features from the front panel
OLED screen for instantaneous status information and precise control
100-240v switching power built-in with Industry-Standard IEC Power Connection
1U ready-to-tour rack-mountable chassis


PlayAUDIO1U™ US MSRP $1399.99 Estimated street price $1199.99, and will be available for pre-order immediately and shipping immediately from www.iConnectivity.com and iConnectivity resellers worldwide. Full product information can be found at iConnectivity.com/playaudio1u

Radikal Technologies Announces DELTA CEP A & A2 VERSION 2 & NEW MANUALS

via Radikal Technologies

"We are happy to announce, that the new firmware release version of the DELTA CEP A and it’s successor, the DELTA CEP A2 is now online! New manuals have been written to make sure you benefit from all new features from the first moment. The manual contains a detailed update procedure. Beside enhancements for the user interface we added a performance step sequencer and full MIDI parameter control. The Desktop versions even sends all knob movements out."

New Gieskes Klok Eurorack Module

video upload by Gijs Gieskes

via Gieskes

"This is a eurorack clock module with features related to a clock. On the left you have the audio output that is the sound that the clock makes, it is amplified via a piezo, the piezo is gated via a vactrol witha build in envelope. The clock can be advanced interlay via the build in LFO, but it can also be advanced via a external gate signal. There is a volume pot for the volume of the clock.

The center input goes via the volume potmeter above it to the vactrol, here you can put in external signals, these will be mixed in with the sound of the clock and gated with the vactrol.

Then there are two outputs for the LFO, they are one square wave and one sort of triangle wave. The potmeter above them sets the speed, when turned all the way to the left the LFO will stop oscillating and hold its state.

Specification:
+12v (Power consumption should be not much, maybe 100ma)
-12v (maybe 20ma?)
Width is 12HP"

Synthfox Introduces EBB & FLOW

video upload by SYNTHFOX Channel

Playlist:
EBB & FLOW: Generative Krell Patch Tutorial
EBB & FLOW: Complex Envelopes & Slope Shapes
EBB & FLOW: Ebb INJect INput
EBB & FLOW: VC Clock Division
EBB & FLOW: ~overview~
EBB & FLOW: Kickdrum Patch & Logic Gate Ratcheting
EBB & FLOW: Bouncing Ball Patch

via Synthfox Reverb

EBB & FLOW goes beyound just being an innovative slope generation combomodule. It consists of two slope generators - EBB on the left and FLOW on the right - and minimum/maximum voltage selectors at the bottom. With its four separate, yet intertwined submodules, EBB & FLOW is a compact and intuitive slope powerhouse with endless possibilities of external and internal patch-programming!

The Ebb slope on the left on the module produces a spike-like envelope, perfect for percussive and plucky sounds. Ebb can be set to loop and become a voltage-controlled time base generator of an immense time range. The inject input allows to use it as a vca/filter/suboctaver crossbreed with audio, or as a negative voltage transition slew limiter. The Flow slope on the right acts like an attack-decay or attack-release envelope when actuated through trig or gate inputs respectively. Rise and Fall times have individual CV inputs and a joined both CV in. Flow has two logic outputs along with its slope out, allowing for smart patch-programming inside and outside of the unit. Flow can be looped, producing an arbitrary shaped oscillation. The OMNI input provides instant control over all time parameters of the module, allowing to make the patch-programmed havoc drift together to slower or faster territories!

The Max and Min voltage selectors are a separate submodule. Its range of applications is OR/AND functions for gates and other logic signals, creative sound mixing and rectification, CV mangling and more. The inputs of Max and Min have outputs of Ebb and Flow normalled in, so with nothing plugged in, they act as instant combinators for of the two slope generators.

MODULE FEATURES
EBB voltage controlled decay-only slope with 2 triggering modes, VC looping, shape control and voltage injection

FLOW voltage controlled rise and fall slope with trig (AD) and gate (AR) mode and logic outputs for patch programming

EBB and FLOW time settings continuously span from very slow CV to audio-rate

The OMNI control voltage input controls all time settings, allowing for easy access to dramatic movements

MAX and MIN voltage selectors useful as logic functions, audio manglers, CV layering tools, and more

EBB and FLOW outputs normalled to both MAX and MIN inputs for instant slope combinator action

Four submodules in one, usable completely separately, but matched and intertwined for creative patching inside and outside of the unit

CLICK FOR MORE »

Rob Papen Introduces LowSane

video upload by Rob Papen

via Rob Papen

"Welcome to the world of breaking down the digital world! Yes, in our music production world, we are proud to record on 24bit and 192kHz to provide pristine audio for music lovers.
BUT... as we are, we are keen on crushing things as well, which means that LoFi audio quality is not a side effect of cheap Chinese child toys, but has become a creative tool in today's music creation and post-audio productions! Who could have thought of that in the 80ties when everybody screamed for 16bit instead of 8bit!
Yes, humans are creative and many years later the ‘LoFi’ sound sculpting became an art of its own.

Well, LowSane adapts to this creative process and adds some additional creative options like the ‘Disrupt Sphere’ to this world of crushing down the digital bits!

It offers in the audio route a Distortion module, Band Pass / Notch Filter, Lo-Fi section, Hi and low Pass Filters, and a Noise Gate.

These parameters can be controlled by the ‘Disrupt Sphere’, and additionally there is also an Audio Follower which again can control the 'Disrupt Sphere' or any of the other parameters.

Last but not least there is a 2-slot modulation matrix in which you can connect again parameters, or use MIDI to control parameters and also the ‘Disrupt Sphere’.
With LowSane you get your bits and pieces together going LoFi!"

LowSane is part of the eXplorer-8 bundle.

Roland TR-8S v3.0/TR-6S v2.0 Firmware Update Adds Roland CR-78 & TR-808 Chromatic Bass Instrument

Overview video upload by RolandChannel

"The TR-8S and TR-6S Rhythm Performers continue their sonic evolution with TR-8S v3.0 and TR-6S v2.0 updates. These free upgrades add new instruments and features to the Rhythm Performers, including the legendary Roland CR-78 CompuRhythm and TR-808 Chromatic Bass. Plus, the TR-EDITOR gets a refresh with compact mode for smaller displays.

In this video, you’ll learn about the new enhancements added with the TR-8S v3.0 and TR-6S v2.0 updates:
00:00 Introduction
00:50 CompuRhythm CR-78 ACB Model
05:26 TR-808 Chromatic Bass

The original CR-78 CompuRhythm was launched in 1978 as the first mass-produced programmable rhythm machine. Now, the TR captures that magic with pristine ACB CR sounds, including 14 instruments and original preset patterns, as well as updated advanced patterns to pepper your beats with CR-78 zest. Plus, discover an array of new parameter controls to push the CR-78 into new sonic dimensions.

Tuned 808 basslines are a staple in genres like trap, hip-hop, electro, and other styles of electronic music. The new 808 Chromatic Bass instrument allows you to use motion recording to tune basslines with legit 808 bass sounds directly from the TR-8S and TR-6S—no DAW required.

To learn more about the TR-8S v3.0 update, please visit: https://www.roland.com/global/product...

To learn more about the TR-6S v2.0 update, please visit: https://www.roland.com/global/product...

To read about the CR-78 history, please visit:
https://articles.roland.com/cr-78-the..."

*NEW V3.00* Roland TR8S & TR6S (V2) with CR78 and Chromatic 808

video upload by Starsky Carr

"NEW FIRMWARE for the TR8S gives us an ACB model of the classic CR-78 in addition to a tuneable 808 kick. Use CTRL to tune by semitones for super easy 808 subs.

The CR78 tones are all tweak able, with decay and tuning plus attack on the kick, snappy on the snare and a metallic clang on the hats.

We also have the original CR78 rhythms... Bossa Nova here we come... :)"

And the press release:

"Free Updates Add an ACB Model of the Classic CR-78 CompuRhythm Drum Machine and a New TR-808 Chromatic Bass Instrument

Los Angeles, CA, Sept. 12, 2023 — Roland announces significant system updates for the popular TR-8S and TR-6S Rhythm Performer products. Available as free downloads, TR-8S Version 3.0 and TR-6S Version 2.0 feature an authentic ACB model of the CR-78 CompuRhythm—an influential Roland rhythm machine from the late 1970s—plus a new TR-808 Chromatic Bass instrument for creating basslines. The companion TR-EDITOR app has also been updated with a compact UI option for more efficient operation on smaller displays.

The TR-8S and TR-6S carry on the long-running legacy of Roland rhythm machines, bringing legendary sounds together with the latest technologies and a host of fresh performance tools for today’s musicians, producers, and DJs. These powerful instruments feature authentic models of important TR products from the company’s history, including the TR-808, TR-909, TR-707, TR-727, and TR-606. With the addition of the CR-78 CompuRhythm, the TR-8S and TR-6S now offer the most complete collection of classic Roland rhythm machines available in hardware form.

TR drum machines have driven music culture for decades, forming the backbone of hip-hop, pop, and electronic styles and defining the sound of multiple genres and subgenres. Introduced in 1978, the CR-78 was a direct predecessor of the TR-808 and the first mass-produced programmable rhythm machine. Its distinctive sound has left its own indelible footprint on pop classics from the 1980s and beyond, and it remains highly sought-after in the vintage marketplace.

Brought to life with Roland’s ACB (Analog Circuit Behavior) technology, the CR-78 model offers every sound and nearly all preset patterns from the original analog hardware. It also includes new patterns and advanced sound design capabilities made possible with the modern ACB approach.

Along with the CR-78, the TR-8S and TR-6S updates add a newly developed TR-808 Chromatic Bass instrument. The sound of the TR-808 bass drum revolutionized popular music with its deep, rich sub-bass and punchy quality. Clever producers began using samples of this revered instrument to play the sound chromatically, creating a new hybrid voice that fills the role of both kick drum and bass. The TR-808 Chromatic Bass instrument puts this ability at the user’s fingertips, allowing them to create tuned basslines with the versatile TR-808 bass drum in the TR-8S and TR-6S.

The free TR-EDITOR for macOS and Windows significantly enhances the workflow of the TR-8S and TR-6S, providing an easy-to-use graphical interface with expanded visual controls and organizational tools. The latest version includes a compact UI option that frees up screen space for using the editor along with other applications on small computer displays.

Availability & Pricing

The Roland TR-8S and TR-6S are available now for $749.99 and $399.99, respectively, in the U.S. The Roland TR-8S, TR-6S, and TR-EDITOR updates are available now for free."