Synthesizers

Analogue synthesizer with dual oscillator

Review: The Korg Monotron Duo is capable of creating even stranger, extreme and diverse sounds. The combination of 2 oscillators in unison provide thick, rich analogue tones, while tuning them to different intervals can create classic solo synth sounds and powerful effects. Korg have utilized their X-Mod (cross modulation taken from their classic Mono/Poly synths) circuitry in the Monontron Duo, enabling you to generate the mildest of sounds, to vibrant vibrato, to sharp, fm style abrasive synth sounds.

The Monotron Duo features Korg's fantastic enhanced ribbon controller keyboard and now features the same scale function as used on the Kaossilator, chromatic, major, minor or off scales are available, allowing your music juices to flow freely over any music. The distinctive tone of an analog filter (VCF) can dramatically alter and enrich the sound. The Monotron Duo uses the same highly acclaimed VCF circuit as Korg's classic MS-10 and MS-20 semi modular synthesizers. Originally released over 30 years ago, these instruments are still coveted today for their aggressive, dynamic filters. The VCF Cutoff knob sets the frequency or tone of the filter; the VCF Peak knob adds emphasis. A powerful filter is an essential aspect of any analog synthesizer, applying dramatic tonal changes to the sound, and projecting an intense personality that will stand out in any live performance.

The input jack (AUX input) built into the Monotron Duo's compact body allow you to place any audio source into the Monotron Duo's signal path, directly before the analog filter. This provides a great way to connect a Kaossilator, a guitar, or a digital audio player to the Monotron and enjoy tone-bending filter effects.

A miniature speaker is built into the Monotron Duo. Along with the battery operation and compact size, this feature allows you to enjoy the share the Monotron Duo's analog synthesis sound with your friends, anywhere, at any time. There's also a headphone output that you can use when practicing in private, creating sounds at home, recording, or for connecting to an amplifier or PA system.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wWLOxRSll5Q

Review: The Pico Paso is a stepped tone noise noise synth designed by Dr. Bleep for Handmade Music Austin.

2 triangle wave oscillators can be combined or used separately. A wave shaper and square wave LFO are used to increase the aural possibilties.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j3Y7Ouj3Iss

Analog ribbon synthesizer

Review: Korg are no newcomer to the joys of analog synthesis. Back in the 1970s, Korg astounding fully polyphonic PS-3000 Series and our affordable semi modular MS Series set the bar for creative musicians around the globe. Surely one of the most popular of Korg's analog synthesizers was the coveted MS-20, famous for its dynamic sound creation capabilities and its fat, snarly, expressive filter. Kept popular by dance and electronic artists, this legendary MS-20 filter came back to life using the Component Modeling Technology in Korg's Legacy software collections. Now you can experience the glorious, evocative MS-20 filter along with true analog synthesis in Korg's new monotron Analogue Ribbon Synthesizer.

Powered by 2 alkaline AAA batteries, the compact monotron can be held in one hand. Although small enough to easily carry with you, the amazing monotron is packed with KORG's legendary analog technology, generating thick and powerful sounds. Concentrating on the most important sound parameters, the controls have been streamlined as much as possible. The panel contains only five knobs and one switch. With this level of simplicity, now anyone can easily enjoy the world of analog synthesizers.

Borrowing the enjoyment of performing with a simple touch from Korg's wildly popular KAOSS products, the monotron's ribbon controller keyboard takes this ease of use even farther. Simple finger gestures can produce expressive effects such as vibrato and glide. Used in a band, you can expand your possibilities by harmonizing with another instrument U or taking center stage for a monotron solo.

The monotron's circuit is radically simple: one voltage-controlled oscillator, one voltage-controlled filter, and one low frequency oscillator. Since each knob directly applies a specific change to the sound, the process of sound creation is intuitive, and instantly understandable. Simple is best. Gone are the deep lists of presets and parameters typical of today's synthesizers. Instead, the monotron encourages exploration and experimentation. The monotron provides the joy of sonic creativity that's at the heart of analog synthesis, making it an ideal choice for someone who is new to synthesizers, or for musicians who wants to expand their sonic palette.

The monotron uses the same highly acclaimed VCF circuit as KORG's classic MS-10 and MS-20 semi modular synthesizers. Originally released over 30 years ago, these instruments are still coveted today for their aggressive, dynamic filters. The VCF Cutoff knob sets the frequency or tone of the filter; the VCF Peak knob adds emphasis. A powerful filter is an essential aspect of any analog synthesizer, applying dramatic tonal changes to the sound, and projecting an intense personality that will stand out in any live performance.

Just as on the original MS-20, the monotron's filter can be patched into, allowing any external audio source to be processed by the monotron's filter. The input jack (AUX input) built into the monotron's compact body inserts the AUX input into the signal path right before the VCF. This provides a great way to connect a Kaossilator, a keyboard, a guitar, a digital audio player or even an un-mixed track to the monotron and enjoy tone-bending filter effects.

You can switch the LFO to control either the oscillator pitch or the filter cutoff frequency. Both LFO Rate and LFO Intensity knobs are provided. As you turn the LFO Rate knob U featuring an embedded LED U the speed of the modulation effect and the speed of the blinking LED will change in tandem. Turning this knob can add another level of impact to your live performances.

A miniature speaker is built into the monotron. Along with the battery operation and compact size, this feature allows you to enjoy the monotron anywhere, at any time. The ultimate in compactness, this system brings you new possibilities for performance. There's also a headphone output that you can use when creating sounds at home, for recording, or for connecting to an amplifier or PA system.

Analogue ribbon portable synthesizer with delay effects

Review: A good delay was an essential part of the classic analog synthesizer sound. More often than not, that delay came from a tape-style echo machine until affordable digital delays were created. The Monotron Delay is an analog synthesizer optimized for sound effects. In addition to its analog oscillator, filter and LFO, it also provides a space delay that's indispensible for swooping, cosmic sounds. The monotron Delay even reproduces the pitch changes that occur when you vary the delay time, just as though you were using an analog tape echo. This fat and warm delay will add an authentic edge to your analog sounds.

It also features Korg's class VCF filter for full control over your sounds. The distinctive tone of an analog filter (VCF) can dramatically alter and enrich the sound. The Monotron Delay uses the same highly acclaimed VCF circuit as Korg's classic MS-10 and MS-20 semi modular synthesizers. Originally released over 30 years ago, these instruments are still coveted today for their aggressive, dynamic filters. The VCF Cutoff knob sets the frequency or tone of the filter; the VCF Peak knob adds emphasis. A powerful filter is an essential aspect of any analog synthesizer, applying dramatic tonal changes to the sound, and projecting an intense personality that will stand out in any live performance.

Create classic sounding analogue tape delays to add warms and new dimensions to your synth sounds. Also included is Korg's fantastic enhanced ribbon controller keyboard, while a mini jack input also allows you to run any external audio, such as a Kaossilator, digital piano or guitar, through the Monotron Duo. As standard, the Monotron range comes with a powerful built-in speakers and is battery operated for the ultimate portable experience.

The Low Frequency Oscillator (LFO) waveform used to modulate the pitch now offers a choice of waveshapes, which is a new square wave plus the traditional triangle wave. Both the rate (speed) and the intensity (depth) can be adjusted independently. In addition, a trimpot on the back panel can continuously adjust the shape/direction of the triangle wave or the pulse-width of the square wave to deliver even more versatility. Used in conjunction with the delay, the LFO can create dazzling effects and provide unique possibilities for embellishing your songs.

The Monotron Delay's ribbon controller keyboard features a wide, 4-octave range. This design allows the pitch to be controlled even more aggressively and dynamically, making the Monotron Delay a great weapon for a DJ to get the floor moving with irresistible sound. The reversed white keys and body adornments glows under black light illumination, making the monotron Delay ideal for delivering a striking visual impact in nearly any club environment.

The input jack (AUX input) built into the Monotron Delay's compact body allow you to place any audio source into the Monotron Delay's signal path, directly before the analog filter and delay circuit. This provides a great way to connect a Kaossilator, a guitar, or a digital audio player to the Monotron and enjoy tone-bending filter and delay effect.

A miniature speaker is built into the Monotron Delay. Along with the battery operation and compact size, this feature allows you to enjoy the share the Monotron Delay's analog synthesis sound with your friends, anywhere, at any time. There's also a headphone output that you can use when practicing in private, creating sounds at home, recording, or for connecting to an amplifier or PA system.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CNXOI1AIjKo&sns=tw

Review: The Korg Monotron Duo is capable of creating even stranger, extreme and diverse sounds. The combination of 2 oscillators in unison provide thick, rich analogue tones, while tuning them to different intervals can create classic solo synth sounds and powerful effects. Korg have utilized their X-Mod (cross modulation taken from their classic Mono/Poly synths) circuitry in the Monontron Duo, enabling you to generate the mildest of sounds, to vibrant vibrato, to sharp, fm style abrasive synth sounds.

The Monotron Duo features Korg's fantastic enhanced ribbon controller keyboard and now features the same scale function as used on the Kaossilator, chromatic, major, minor or off scales are available, allowing your music juices to flow freely over any music. The distinctive tone of an analog filter (VCF) can dramatically alter and enrich the sound. The Monotron Duo uses the same highly acclaimed VCF circuit as Korg's classic MS-10 and MS-20 semi modular synthesizers. Originally released over 30 years ago, these instruments are still coveted today for their aggressive, dynamic filters. The VCF Cutoff knob sets the frequency or tone of the filter; the VCF Peak knob adds emphasis. A powerful filter is an essential aspect of any analog synthesizer, applying dramatic tonal changes to the sound, and projecting an intense personality that will stand out in any live performance.

The input jack (AUX input) built into the Monotron Duo's compact body allow you to place any audio source into the Monotron Duo's signal path, directly before the analog filter. This provides a great way to connect a Kaossilator, a guitar, or a digital audio player to the Monotron and enjoy tone-bending filter effects.

A miniature speaker is built into the Monotron Duo. Along with the battery operation and compact size, this feature allows you to enjoy the share the Monotron Duo's analog synthesis sound with your friends, anywhere, at any time. There's also a headphone output that you can use when practicing in private, creating sounds at home, recording, or for connecting to an amplifier or PA system.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wWLOxRSll5Q

Review: Korg are no newcomer to the joys of analog synthesis. Back in the 1970s, Korg astounding fully polyphonic PS-3000 Series and our affordable semi modular MS Series set the bar for creative musicians around the globe. Surely one of the most popular of Korg's analog synthesizers was the coveted MS-20, famous for its dynamic sound creation capabilities and its fat, snarly, expressive filter. Kept popular by dance and electronic artists, this legendary MS-20 filter came back to life using the Component Modeling Technology in Korg's Legacy software collections. Now you can experience the glorious, evocative MS-20 filter along with true analog synthesis in Korg's new monotron Analogue Ribbon Synthesizer.

Powered by 2 alkaline AAA batteries, the compact monotron can be held in one hand. Although small enough to easily carry with you, the amazing monotron is packed with KORG's legendary analog technology, generating thick and powerful sounds. Concentrating on the most important sound parameters, the controls have been streamlined as much as possible. The panel contains only five knobs and one switch. With this level of simplicity, now anyone can easily enjoy the world of analog synthesizers.

Borrowing the enjoyment of performing with a simple touch from Korg's wildly popular KAOSS products, the monotron's ribbon controller keyboard takes this ease of use even farther. Simple finger gestures can produce expressive effects such as vibrato and glide. Used in a band, you can expand your possibilities by harmonizing with another instrument U or taking center stage for a monotron solo.

The monotron's circuit is radically simple: one voltage-controlled oscillator, one voltage-controlled filter, and one low frequency oscillator. Since each knob directly applies a specific change to the sound, the process of sound creation is intuitive, and instantly understandable. Simple is best. Gone are the deep lists of presets and parameters typical of today's synthesizers. Instead, the monotron encourages exploration and experimentation. The monotron provides the joy of sonic creativity that's at the heart of analog synthesis, making it an ideal choice for someone who is new to synthesizers, or for musicians who wants to expand their sonic palette.

The monotron uses the same highly acclaimed VCF circuit as KORG's classic MS-10 and MS-20 semi modular synthesizers. Originally released over 30 years ago, these instruments are still coveted today for their aggressive, dynamic filters. The VCF Cutoff knob sets the frequency or tone of the filter; the VCF Peak knob adds emphasis. A powerful filter is an essential aspect of any analog synthesizer, applying dramatic tonal changes to the sound, and projecting an intense personality that will stand out in any live performance.

Just as on the original MS-20, the monotron's filter can be patched into, allowing any external audio source to be processed by the monotron's filter. The input jack (AUX input) built into the monotron's compact body inserts the AUX input into the signal path right before the VCF. This provides a great way to connect a Kaossilator, a keyboard, a guitar, a digital audio player or even an un-mixed track to the monotron and enjoy tone-bending filter effects.

You can switch the LFO to control either the oscillator pitch or the filter cutoff frequency. Both LFO Rate and LFO Intensity knobs are provided. As you turn the LFO Rate knob U featuring an embedded LED U the speed of the modulation effect and the speed of the blinking LED will change in tandem. Turning this knob can add another level of impact to your live performances.

A miniature speaker is built into the monotron. Along with the battery operation and compact size, this feature allows you to enjoy the monotron anywhere, at any time. The ultimate in compactness, this system brings you new possibilities for performance. There's also a headphone output that you can use when creating sounds at home, for recording, or for connecting to an amplifier or PA system.

Review: A good delay was an essential part of the classic analog synthesizer sound. More often than not, that delay came from a tape-style echo machine until affordable digital delays were created. The Monotron Delay is an analog synthesizer optimized for sound effects. In addition to its analog oscillator, filter and LFO, it also provides a space delay that's indispensible for swooping, cosmic sounds. The monotron Delay even reproduces the pitch changes that occur when you vary the delay time, just as though you were using an analog tape echo. This fat and warm delay will add an authentic edge to your analog sounds.

It also features Korg's class VCF filter for full control over your sounds. The distinctive tone of an analog filter (VCF) can dramatically alter and enrich the sound. The Monotron Delay uses the same highly acclaimed VCF circuit as Korg's classic MS-10 and MS-20 semi modular synthesizers. Originally released over 30 years ago, these instruments are still coveted today for their aggressive, dynamic filters. The VCF Cutoff knob sets the frequency or tone of the filter; the VCF Peak knob adds emphasis. A powerful filter is an essential aspect of any analog synthesizer, applying dramatic tonal changes to the sound, and projecting an intense personality that will stand out in any live performance.

Create classic sounding analogue tape delays to add warms and new dimensions to your synth sounds. Also included is Korg's fantastic enhanced ribbon controller keyboard, while a mini jack input also allows you to run any external audio, such as a Kaossilator, digital piano or guitar, through the Monotron Duo. As standard, the Monotron range comes with a powerful built-in speakers and is battery operated for the ultimate portable experience.

The Low Frequency Oscillator (LFO) waveform used to modulate the pitch now offers a choice of waveshapes, which is a new square wave plus the traditional triangle wave. Both the rate (speed) and the intensity (depth) can be adjusted independently. In addition, a trimpot on the back panel can continuously adjust the shape/direction of the triangle wave or the pulse-width of the square wave to deliver even more versatility. Used in conjunction with the delay, the LFO can create dazzling effects and provide unique possibilities for embellishing your songs.

The Monotron Delay's ribbon controller keyboard features a wide, 4-octave range. This design allows the pitch to be controlled even more aggressively and dynamically, making the Monotron Delay a great weapon for a DJ to get the floor moving with irresistible sound. The reversed white keys and body adornments glows under black light illumination, making the monotron Delay ideal for delivering a striking visual impact in nearly any club environment.

The input jack (AUX input) built into the Monotron Delay's compact body allow you to place any audio source into the Monotron Delay's signal path, directly before the analog filter and delay circuit. This provides a great way to connect a Kaossilator, a guitar, or a digital audio player to the Monotron and enjoy tone-bending filter and delay effect.

A miniature speaker is built into the Monotron Delay. Along with the battery operation and compact size, this feature allows you to enjoy the share the Monotron Delay's analog synthesis sound with your friends, anywhere, at any time. There's also a headphone output that you can use when practicing in private, creating sounds at home, recording, or for connecting to an amplifier or PA system.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CNXOI1AIjKo&sns=tw

Mini-synthesizer (built)

Review: The Nebulophone is an Arduino-based synth with a stylus keyboard, featuring eight waveforms, five adjustable LFO modes, six arpeggios, a programmable sequencer, three-speed portamento and more.


www.youtube.com/watch?v=ClCq0bTlCPA

Review: The Korg Monotron Duo is capable of creating even stranger, extreme and diverse sounds. The combination of 2 oscillators in unison provide thick, rich analogue tones, while tuning them to different intervals can create classic solo synth sounds and powerful effects. Korg have utilized their X-Mod (cross modulation taken from their classic Mono/Poly synths) circuitry in the Monontron Duo, enabling you to generate the mildest of sounds, to vibrant vibrato, to sharp, fm style abrasive synth sounds.

The Monotron Duo features Korg's fantastic enhanced ribbon controller keyboard and now features the same scale function as used on the Kaossilator, chromatic, major, minor or off scales are available, allowing your music juices to flow freely over any music. The distinctive tone of an analog filter (VCF) can dramatically alter and enrich the sound. The Monotron Duo uses the same highly acclaimed VCF circuit as Korg's classic MS-10 and MS-20 semi modular synthesizers. Originally released over 30 years ago, these instruments are still coveted today for their aggressive, dynamic filters. The VCF Cutoff knob sets the frequency or tone of the filter; the VCF Peak knob adds emphasis. A powerful filter is an essential aspect of any analog synthesizer, applying dramatic tonal changes to the sound, and projecting an intense personality that will stand out in any live performance.

The input jack (AUX input) built into the Monotron Duo's compact body allow you to place any audio source into the Monotron Duo's signal path, directly before the analog filter. This provides a great way to connect a Kaossilator, a guitar, or a digital audio player to the Monotron and enjoy tone-bending filter effects.

A miniature speaker is built into the Monotron Duo. Along with the battery operation and compact size, this feature allows you to enjoy the share the Monotron Duo's analog synthesis sound with your friends, anywhere, at any time. There's also a headphone output that you can use when practicing in private, creating sounds at home, recording, or for connecting to an amplifier or PA system.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wWLOxRSll5Q

Review: The Player 25 is the smallest, most lightweight and simple version of the series. It features a compact MIDI keyboard controller and light version of Analog Factory software. This makes for a very easy-to-use and affordable package, including the very best of Arturia's signature sounds and a dedicated quality keyboard perfect for the mobile musician. The rugged and lightweight keyboard make the controller a must for travel, while maintaining the profile of a high-end metal and wood controller that can be used with any other software. The Player software, offering 1000 sounds, is an ideal way to get the most out of Arturia's TAE based synths without getting into the details and complications of sound design.

Packed full of Arturia's hottest analog sounds made by their international team, this software gives a full spectrum review of 7 of Arturia's best analog emulating software synths. If you need a high-end, portable 25-key MIDI keyboard and a compilation of Artunia's best analog sounds then Analog Experience, The Player is for you.

Handmade analog & digital controlled synthesizer with light

Handmade analog & digital controlled synthesizer with light

Video synthesizer produces colorful oscilloscope style patterns on a TV or projector

Review: The new and improved video synthesizer produces colorful oscilloscope style patterns on a television or projector. It reacts to audio input and works particularly well with simple bassy tones.

The Video Scope has 2 knobs. One knob controls the input gain, and the other knob selects the display mode. There are now 4 modes: line, color shifter, trapezoid, and randomizer. The randomizer function randomly selects one of the other 3 modes at an adjustable rate. This is useful for hands free operation, and keeps the display always changing.

The video below demonstrates some of the possible patterns (this is an older video, so only the first 2 modes are being used). The sound in the video is the same sound that is feeding into the device to generate the patterns. Since it responds to an audio signal, the sky is the limit with the different kinds of patterns you can get.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=g-n2KJKK94w
www.youtube.com/watch?v=wFiok0tGp7E

Eurorack module extension for the Mono Lancet

Review: The Vermona Mono Lancet Modular Dock is a eurorack module extension for the Mono Lancet.

The Mono Lancet Modular Dock from Vermona connects to the Vermona Mono Lancet via D-sub to extend its possibilities by adding pulse-width modulation, and frequency modulation, and interaction with other synth modules for the creation of incredible new soundscapes.

Dynamic phrase synthesizer

Review: Introduced in 2007, the Kaossilator has won high acclaim as the original gadget instrument and gave rise to the Kaossilator Pro and iKaossilator for iPhone. Now say hello to the impressive Kaossilator 2.

Boasting a powered-up sound generator, the Kaossilator 2 delivers synth and drum sounds spanning a wide range of genres, plus dramatically expanded loop recording. The Kaossilator 2 is packed with capabilities that can be enjoyed alone on or together with other people. Use 2 loops to create DJ-like mixes. Use the internal mic to record guitar, vocal, or other audio source, just as with a looper effect. The Organic Electroluminescent (OEL) display provides superb visibility. Add to that a touch slider for ease of use, microSD card data saving, plus a built-in speaker and mic. All of these features reflect the enhancements incorporated into the sleek and exciting the Kaossilator 2.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FmQeP3y1F2w

Review: Introduced in 2007, the Kaossilator has won high acclaim as the original gadget instrument and gave rise to the Kaossilator Pro and iKaossilator for iPhone. Now say hello to the impressive Kaossilator 2.

Boasting a powered-up sound generator, the Kaossilator 2 delivers synth and drum sounds spanning a wide range of genres, plus dramatically expanded loop recording. The Kaossilator 2 is packed with capabilities that can be enjoyed alone on or together with other people. Use 2 loops to create DJ-like mixes. Use the internal mic to record guitar, vocal, or other audio source, just as with a looper effect. The Organic Electroluminescent (OEL) display provides superb visibility. Add to that a touch slider for ease of use, microSD card data saving, plus a built-in speaker and mic. All of these features reflect the enhancements incorporated into the sleek and exciting the Kaossilator 2.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FmQeP3y1F2w

Portable 4-part analog synthesizer & analog rhythm & step sequencer

Review: Korg take up the analog banner with the amazing Monotribe Analogue Ribbon Station, which is a new form of synthesizer that packs an amazing array of features and technology into its compact body.

Korg's Monotribe synthesizer shares the Korg analog DNA, yet quickly delves deeper into the rich, organic and often chaotic world of analog synthesis. Additionally Monotribe synthesizer brings together intuitive ease of use and a 3-part discrete analog rhythm section, plus the proven appeal of electribe-style sequencing. Complete with built-in speakers and battery power, the Monotribe is self-contained, highly portable and able to deliver your ideas with style and personality.

The Korg Monotribe Analogue Ribbon Station brings responsive realtime control to analog groove making.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LuqJfAWkN2c&feature=player_embedded

Pocket-sized dynamic phrase synthesizer

Review: The Kaossilator 2, the pocket-sized dynamic phrase synthesizer that's known for providing a world of rich sounds and effects plus loop recording, is now available in a limited edition pearl white finish. Stand out from the crowd with this unique finish that's only available for a limited time.

The Korg Kaossilator 2 Dynamic Phrase Synthesizer takes all of the best features from the original Kaossilator, the worlds first gadget instrument, and updates, expands and adds loads more. The Kaosillator 2 is a flexible synth that anyone can play and get great results (whether they be a pianist, DJ or anyone in fact). This must-have gadget offers incredible musical power, hours of fun, and amazing effect sounds with amazing ease. With external source audio recording and dual looping it is possible to do an entire gig with nothing but a Kaossilator and your voice. There is even a biult-in speaker, so you can experiment with this powerful Kaossilator anywhere.

There are 150 built-in sounds, which cover all styles of dance and eletronica. Using the Korg Kaossilator 2 you can create 2 separate loops and mix them simultaneously, record external sources (i.e. guitar, vocals, etc.), do unlimited overdubs with loops and even control fades/paramaters/crossfades with the touch sensitive value control. You can also plug external sources into the mic input. The built-in gate arpeggiator lets you control time and swing top play musical, rhythmic passages.

There are lots of great features to augment your performance. The drums are produced with a PCM sound engine in the Korg Kaossilator 2 for added realism, which gives a bigger sound and offers greater versatility than the original Kaossilator. Also, you can make sure you always sound in tune with scale key and note range functions, which help you to avoid any clashes by limiting the notes available across the pad to ones that will work with your music.

The microSD/SDHC card slot lets you salve loops and record your performances, so you can record anywhere and then distribute your results, or put them into computer music software to add to your production projects.

On top of all this you can use batteries, so you are completely free to use the Korg Kaossilator 2 anywhere. You can easily see the screen with its high-visibility OEL display. All you need is a finger and you can use strokes, taps and rub movements to produce countless combinations of sounds that can inject a bit of an improvisational/impulsive/unpredictable edge to your music.

Mini electronic synthesizer with 4 waveform & 6 modes

Review: The Pocket Piano is a mini electronic synthesizer with a big sound. The synthesizer features 6 unique modes:

Vibrato synth
Harmonic sweeper
2-Octave arpeggiator
Octave cascade
Mono FM synth
FM arpeggiator

The Pocket Piano is housed in a sturdy aluminum and hardwood case and also includes a built-in speaker, a 1/4" output jack, and wooden keys made for a refined touch. It can be powered both by a 9V battery or a 9V DC Power Supply (not included).

When you change modes with the right-most wooden button, a color LED above that button indicates what mode is selected with a different color for each mode. The entire keyboard may be tuned over a 2 octave range by turning the knob second from right. Volume is controlled by the right-most knob. The function of the remaining two left knobs depend on what mode is selected, and are described below. There is also a button that selects waveform (sine, square, triangle, sawtooth) in the first four modes, and shifts the keyboard an octave higher in the last two modes.

http://vimeo.com/14598032

Mini electronic synthesizer in green aluminum case with 7 sound modes

Review: Green aluminum case + extra sound.

The Pocket Piano GR is the same great instrument as the regular Pocket Piano with an added special mode. In addition to the 6 sound modes of the standard piano, the GR has a 7th mode: a monophonic 4-oscillator beating synthesizer with glide. 7 modes total:

Vibrato synth
Harmonic sweeper
2-Octave arpeggiator
Octave cascade
Mono FM synth
FM arpeggiator
Mono glider.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=njz6QG61ER0&feature=player_embedded

Review: Size doesn't always matter, despite its compact dimensions, the Nanozwerg is a full-featured monophonic analogue synthesizer. With VCO, an additional sub-oscillator and its 12 dB-slope-multimodefilter, the Nanozwerg offers multiple bass- and lead-sounds. In addition, the Nanozwerg offers a noise-generator and also works as an effects-processor using its external audio-input.

The analogue VCO generates 4 waveform shapes: triangle, saw tooth, rectangle and needle-impulse. The base pitch can be switched over a 4-octave-range, while fine-tune can be specified within a range of one octave. The sub-oscillator with 2 mixable octave settings completes the Nanozwerg's sound foundation. The noise generator can alternatively replace the sub-oscillator to create non-harmonic sounds. Finally, a glide-control can be used to tie notes with portamento.

The state-variable multimode-filter runs with 12 dB slope per octave and offers Lo-, Hi- and Bandpass-modes as well as notch-filtering and resonance up to self-oscillation. Cutoff can be modulated manually, by LFO and by the ADSR-envelope simultaneously. In addition, pitch-dependent cutoff-frequency can be achieved using the key follow function. Finally, LFO modulation can be replaced by the VCO output signal.

The LFO offers 4 waveform shapes including sample & hold as well as a one-shot-function, where the selected waveform is played only once after a gate-trigger, thus imitating a simple envelope. Besides the cutoff-frequency, the LFO can also modulate the pitch or the VCO rectangle's pulse width.

The ADSR-envelope allows modulation of the filter's cutoff-frequency and the VCA-output, with positive or negative excursion. Selectively, the VCA can also be opened by a gate-trigger to free the envelope for exclusive filter use.

For integration into a modular system or use with an analogue sequencer, NANOZWERG offers several control inputs. There is CV/Gate for pitch control and note length as well as CV-inputs for cutoff-control, the VCA and LFO speed. The LFO also offers CV-output.

The audio-input allows signals to be fed into the VCF and VCA. NANOZWERG can be controlled by MIDI from any compatible keyboard or DAW. Note commands are received as well as pitch-wheel (+/- 2 semitones) and modulation-wheel data, the latter controlling the filter's cutoff frequency.

Mini synthesizer

Review: With the Rocket, Waldorf introduce a new mini synthesizer that boasts a feature set uncommon in its class. With its advanced oscillator section, this small black cube can generate sharp edged leads, gargantuan basses and vast synthesizer soundscapes, that can resound as an 8-voice chord if desired.

The logical layout of the user interface and the choice of available parameters bear witness to the ample experience Waldorf have creating exclusive sound generators. As a result of its heritage all functions that essentially define a synth sound are available for immediate manipulation.

Every knob movement changes the sound directly and with immediate results. The characteristic analog Waldorf multi-mode filter (low/ band/ high pass) can also self oscillate. The integrated boost function intensifies the sound with sheer wickedness. Besides being used for modulation duties, the LFO also contains a flexible arpeggiator that can be synchronized to the outside world using MIDI.

The Rocket is an ideal sound design machine, which in combination with its extremely attractive price, will appeal to any sound designer or musician interested in quality sounds. It works as a stand-alone instrument or in any imaginable music production environment. But its most important feature is of course its sound: a real Waldorf synthesizer, powerful, direct and with a lot of love for the details. Naturally the Rocket is completely designed and built in Germany.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=4L_27GHFbjI

Hackable digital synthesizer

Review: MeeBlip is a hackable, affordable digital synthesizer, made for accessible sound and hands-on control. It can be someone's first synth. It can be a unique-sounding addition to your music setup, playable with MIDI hardware and software. It can be a synth you open up and modify, learning about sound creation, code, and electronics. Or it can be the basis of new projects and ideas.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uxg15hmmEeo&feature=player_embedded

Bass machine with built-in sequencer and full MIDI capabilities

Review: The Bolsa Bass is the new bass machine from Critter & Guitari. It has a built-in sequencer, full MIDI capabilities, and these 6 x modes:

Circle ramp
Sawtooth ramp
Analog style
Filter envelop
FM pad
Bass delay.

The entire keyboard may be tuned over a 1 octave range by turning the knob second from right. Volume is controlled by the right-most knob. The function of the remaining 2 left knobs depend on what mode is selected. The synthesizer modes provide elemental monophonic bass sounds, great for all kinds of musical scenarios. From classic filter sweeps to simple and pure tones, lush FM, and even a stretchy tuned delay which makes great string like drones.

The built-in sequencer lets you quickly create bass lines with the touch of a button. With MIDI in and out you can synchronize your sequences with other devices. The Bolsa Bass also sends and receives note messages so you can use it as a sound module or simple controller.

Minimoog Voyager CV output expander

Review: The VX-351 connects to the Voyagers accessory port with the included detachable cable. It houses twenty-one one-quarter inch jacks that are connected to the Voyagers CV and Gate outputs in a CP-251 sized enclosure with an optional rack mount kit. It also includes two 4-way mults and two attenuators. Adding this to your Voyager adds the capabilities of a modular synthesizer. Think: if Voyager = infinite sound possibilities, then Voyager + VX-351 = infinity squared!!!

Analogue synthesizer with a VCO designed in the tradition of MS-20 and TB-303

Review: The Domino is a discrete analogue synthesizer with a VCO in the tradition of MS20 and TB303. The VCO, filter & VCA are transistor made. This transistor architecture gives the Domino a unique raw sound. Rich and raw at the same time, no need of external effects to give life to the sound. The VCO offers a mix between sawtooth and square. Pulsewidth can be modulated by the LFO. The filter is a low-pass 24dB resonant filter. The analogue envelope range is from 1ms to 10s with attack, decay, sustain/release. The LFO has 8 different waveforms. On waveform 8, the modulation wheel can replace the LFO. MIDI CC 8 to 16 can transform the LFO in a sequencer to modulate pitch, pulsewidth, filter cutoff. The VCA can be modulated by a gate or by an envelope. In the legato mode, playing notes will generate glide between 2 notes. The glide time can be edited via MIDI CC. Additional features like a 8 steps sequencer, an arpeggiator and an accent recognition capability turns the Domino into a powerful tool.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RX9_nDjOV5s

Mini electronic synthesizer with 6 sound modes and MIDI capabilities

Review: The Pocket Piano MIDI has all the functionality of a Critter & Guitari Pocket Piano synthesizer, now with MIDI capabilities. It can interact with many other MIDI devices: drum machines, sequencers, computers, synthesizers, and other Pocket Piano MIDIs. It is both a sound module and a controller, sending and receiving MIDI note messages, and MIDI clock signals.

In addition to its intuitive interface, maple keys, built-in speaker, and aluminum and wood enclosure, it features the same 6 unique synth modes found on the original Pocket Piano:

Vibrato synth
Harmonic sweeper
2-Octave arpeggiator
Octave cascade
Mono FM synth
FM arpeggiator.

As a controller, the Pocket Piano MIDI sends out key presses as note messages, useful for triggering other synthesizers, samplers, or software. As a sound module the Pocket Piano MIDI responds to all 88 notes of a full size piano, so you are not limited to the 16 key range of the Pocket Piano. Using a full size controller, you can take advantage of the Pocket Pianos unique sounds and arpeggiators over a much larger range. Larger range = more fun.

But the fun doesn't stop there. The Pocket Piano MIDI also sends and receives MIDI clock, so you can synchronize the Pocket Piano's arpeggiators with your favorite drum machine, sequencer, or computer software. The Pocket Piano MIDI passes all received clock messages to its output, allowing you to chain many Pocket Pianos together to create an orchestra of Pocket Pianos.

The Critter & Guitari Pocket Piano MIDI is powered by one 9V battery or a 9V DC power supply.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8igJF6mdHRw&feature=player_embedded

Hybrid synthesizer with MIDI keyboard controller & software

Review: The Laboratory 49 is Arturia's professional grade version of the analog experience series. Featuring a top-notch 49-key MIDI keyboard controller and the Laboratory version of Arturia's analog software, the Laboratory 49 synthesizer includes the same preset-based collection of Arturia's best analog sounds, with the possibility to edit the patches in depth and a new layering mode turning analog factory into a small workstation.

The 49-key keyboard controller is made for performance and maximum expression, with a breath control input and aftertouch in addition to a set of knobs and faders, as well as full connectivity on the back panel. This premium controller gives the fullest access to Arturia's analog laboratory software, its pre-assigned controls make it the perfect solution for plug and play sound creation. In addition, the keyboard can be easily used in any other software context. The Laboratory software is Arturia's most advanced version of Analog Factory, giving you a new depth of access to the synth patches so you can really get in and customize the huge library of internationally designed presets. A new project mode allows several sounds to be played at the same time with the addition of an innovative sequence manager.

19" version of the x0xb0x without sequencer

Review: The Mode Machines x0x-Rack features the synth section of the open x0xb0x, without sequencer.

What's in the box

Power supply
Manual German
Manual English.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=HGYFunHUy-g

Monophonic analog synthesizer

Review: The Dave Smith Instruments Mopho Desktop Synthesiser Module is a compact and affordable but powerful monophonic analog synth.

The voice architecture is identical to the single voice of the Prophet '08, but with a couple of unique twists to distinguish it from its award-winning sibling. They've have added 2 sub-octave generators, one per oscillator, for additional girth and crushing basses. It also has an audio input that lets you process external audio and mix Mopho's own audio output back in pre-filter for feedback effects that can range from subtle distortion to extreme skronk.

The push it button is a manual trigger that lets you play a specific note or latch notes and sequences on. It can also step through a sequence to play short melodic lines without a keyboard. Of course, the Mopho can also be used with a MIDI controller or external sequencer.

The Mopho is fully programmable and all the parameters can be tweaked from the front panel. The 4 assignable parameters controls are assignable per program for optimum performance control. A free editor is available for Mac OS and Windows to facilitate programming. (If you already have a Prophet '08, most of the Mopho's parameters can be controlled from the Prophet's front panel via MIDI).

The Mopho is perfect for people who want to learn the inputs and outputs of real analog synthesis without spending a bundle, DJs looking to add some old school sonic spice to their setups and musicians who will appreciate a great-sounding, very portable mono synth.

Review: State-of-the-art analog modeling and multi-band vocoding are finally available in a compact, portable instrument. With 37 keys and 128 user-rewritable programs, the microKORG synthesizer/vocoder is perfect for the performer, producer, computer musician or beginner looking for an affordable synthesizer. The new microKORG delivers the quality sounds and features you expect from Korg at a price that will astound you.

The microKORG boasts the same dual-oscillator DSP synthesis engine found in Korg's critically acclaimed MS2000 and offers a wider selection of waveforms than any other modeled synth. Oscillator 1 features a total of 71 waveforms. These include traditional analog waves like saw, pulse, sine and noise, plus more unique choices like Vox wave and cross wave. Together they provide a cool selection that can be modulated to produce an extensive range of timbres. In addition, 64 exclusive DWGS waveforms from Korg's classic DW-8000 enable the microKORG to reproduce a broad collection of imitative sounds. Sounds like bells, electric pianos, guitars, basses and more that would be difficult reproduce on an analog synthesizer. You can also apply Ring and Sync modulation from Oscillator 2 to create the kind of complex timbres that are the true sign of an advanced synthesizer.

4 filter modes are available, offering -12 dB (2-pole) low pass, high pass and band pass configurations plus an extra steep -24 dB (4-pole) low pass setting. All include resonance. 2 classic ADSR envelope generators and two MIDI-syncable LFOs provide the power to shape your sounds. Add a virtual patch matrix that lets you create advanced modulation settings U routing the mod wheel to control filter cutoff or pulse width, using an LFO to control panning or amp level, etc. U and you have performance that is unheard of from a synthesizer in this price range.

The microKORG includes an 8-band vocoder with many advanced features. You can capture and freeze the formants of your voice, and then play it across the keyboard, or shift the formant frequency to make your voice sound male, female, like a child or just plain wacky! Best of all, the microKORG comes with its own microphone so you can start having fun right away.

3 types of modulation effects (chorus/flanger, phaser, ensemble), 3 types of delay effects (stereo, cross, L/R) and a 2-band equalizer add the finishing touch to the microKORG. The delays can be synchronized with the arpeggiator or to an external MIDI clock U a great feature for live performances or for laying down tracks. All effects can be edited to create your own, unique sounds.

Korg have used all of the microKORG's synthesis power in the creation of 128 great-sounding presets. They cover a wide range of the latest musical styles plus many vintage favorites. Sixteen vocoder Programs are also included. The pitch bend wheel, modulation wheel and 5 other knobs provide flexible realtime control over filter cutoff, attack, release and other important parameters. The edit mode allows you to fully edit the existing sounds, or to create your own new ones.

6 types of arpeggio patterns (UP, DOWN, ALT1/2, Random, Trigger) are built in, with control over tempo, gate time, swing, and up to a 4-octave range. You can turn individual steps on or off within a pattern, providing the feel and functionality of a step sequencer.

2 external audio input jacks are provided, so you can run other instruments, CDs and more through the microKORG's filter and effects, allowing you to process sounds in truly creative ways.

The microKORG's compact size is perfect for the musician or DJ looking to add a synth to his or her setup when space is tight. It's also a great choice for use in a computer-based music setup. The five realtime knobs on the front panel can transmit MIDI messages (control changes), so they can be used as controllers for software synthesizers. Use the 37-note velocity-sensitive mini-keyboard for controlling other gear or for recording and editing with your sequencer. And thanks to battery-power, the microKORG is the ultimate portable controller when used with a laptop computer!

There's no complex menu structure U all parameters are located on the panel for easy access to any function. A large dial and LED illuminated buttons provide easy program selection even on a dark stage. With its beige-gold body, wooden side panels and retro-influenced design, the microKORG has a look that's both vintage and funky.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=OV_TxlJDDts

CV input expander for Minimoog Voyager Rack Mount edition

Review: The Moog VX-352 is a control voltage input expander for the MMV Rack Mount Edition. The VX352 adds modular synthesis capability to the MMV Rack by providing inputs control voltages (CV) and gate signals for control of the MMV Rack's synthesis circuits. Two active attenuators and a four-way mult panel allow distribution and processing of the MMV Rack CVs.

Korg microKORG 10th anniversary limited edition

Review: Celebrating the 10th anniversary of the microKORG.

Korg's microKORG virtual analog synthesizer has gathered an enormous following among both professionals and amateurs since it appeared in 2002, and continues to be actively used around the world even today, maintaining the same high standard for the past decade. In 2007, Korg celebrated the 5th anniversary of the microKORG's creation by releasing the microKORG BK. The reversed keys drew a great deal of attention being reminiscent of the reverse model of the classic Korg POLY-800, and also due to its limited availability.

Now in 2012, Korg are releasing a new model that commemorates the 10th anniversary of the microKORG: the microKORG BKRD. For musicians who want to emphasize their personality, this custom colour model is an instant way to stand out from the crowd. The distinctive high contrast of the Black x Red model that's sure to raise the energy level on stage with its black and red reversed keyboard.

The microKORG boasts the same dual-oscillator DSP synthesis engine found in Korg's critically acclaimed MS2000 and offers a wider selection of waveforms than any other modeled synth. Oscillator 1 features a total of 71 waveforms. These include traditional analog waves like saw, pulse, sine and noise, plus more unique choices like Vox wave and cross wave. Together they provide a cool selection that can be modulated to produce an extensive range of timbres. In addition, 64 exclusive DWGS waveforms from Korg's classic DW-8000 enable the microKORG to reproduce a broad collection of imitative sounds. Sounds like bells, electric pianos, guitars, basses and more that would be difficult reproduce on an analog synthesizer. You can also apply Ring and Sync modulation from Oscillator 2 to create the kind of complex timbres that are the true sign of an advanced synthesizer.

4 filter modes are available, offering -12dB (2-pole) low pass, high pass and band pass configurations plus an extra steep -24dB (4-pole) low pass setting. All include resonance. 2 classic ADSR envelope generators and two MIDI-syncable LFOs provide the power to shape your sounds. Add a Virtual Patch matrix that lets you create advanced modulation settings, routing the mod wheel to control filter cutoff or pulse width, using an LFO to control panning or amp level, etc. and you have performance that is unheard of from a synthesizer in this price range.

The microKORG includes an 8-band vocoder with many advanced features. You can capture and freeze the formants of your voice, and then play it across the keyboard, or shift the formant frequency to make your voice sound male, female, like a child or just plain wacky. Best of all, the microKORG comes with its own microphone so you can start having fun right away.

3 types of modulation effects (chorus/flanger, phaser, ensemble), 3 types of delay effects (stereo, cross, L/R), and a 2-band equalizer add the finishing touch to the microKORG. The delays can be synchronized with the arpeggiator or to an external MIDI clock, a great feature for live performances or for laying down tracks. All effects can be edited to create your own, unique sounds.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cXGwVDA7zVE&feature=player_embedded

Korg microKORG 10th anniversary limited edition

Review: Celebrating the 10th anniversary of the microKORG.

The microKORG is now available in two limited-edition special-colour premium editions microKORG-BKBK (Black & Black). Korg's microKORG virtual analog synthesizer has gathered an enormous following among both professionals and amateurs since it appeared in 2002, and continues to be actively used around the world even today, maintaining the same high standard for the past decade. In 2007, Korg celebrated the 5th anniversary of the microKORG's creation by releasing the microKORG BK. The reversed keys drew a great deal of attention being reminiscent of the reverse model of the classic Korg POLY-800, and also due to its limited availability.

Now in 2012, Korg are releasing a new model that commemorates the 10th anniversary of the microKORG: the microKORG-BKBK. For musicians who want to emphasize their personality, this custom colour model is an instant way to stand out from the crowd. The full black model with its understated yet elegant presence.

The microKORG boasts the same dual-oscillator DSP synthesis engine found in Korg's critically acclaimed MS2000 and offers a wider selection of waveforms than any other modeled synth. Oscillator 1 features a total of 71 waveforms. These include traditional analog waves like saw, pulse, sine and noise, plus more unique choices like Vox wave and cross wave. Together they provide a cool selection that can be modulated to produce an extensive range of timbres. In addition, 64 exclusive DWGS waveforms from Korg's classic DW-8000 enable the microKORG to reproduce a broad collection of imitative sounds. Sounds like bells, electric pianos, guitars, basses and more that would be difficult reproduce on an analog synthesizer. You can also apply Ring and Sync modulation from Oscillator 2 to create the kind of complex timbres that are the true sign of an advanced synthesizer.

4 filter modes are available, offering -12dB (2-pole) low pass, high pass and band pass configurations plus an extra steep -24dB (4-pole) low pass setting. All include resonance. 2 classic ADSR envelope generators and two MIDI-syncable LFOs provide the power to shape your sounds. Add a Virtual Patch matrix that lets you create advanced modulation settings, routing the mod wheel to control filter cutoff or pulse width, using an LFO to control panning or amp level, etc. and you have performance that is unheard of from a synthesizer in this price range.

The microKORG includes an 8-band vocoder with many advanced features. You can capture and freeze the formants of your voice, and then play it across the keyboard, or shift the formant frequency to make your voice sound male, female, like a child or just plain wacky. Best of all, the microKORG comes with its own microphone so you can start having fun right away.

3 types of modulation effects (chorus/flanger, phaser, ensemble), 3 types of delay effects (stereo, cross, L/R), and a 2-band equalizer add the finishing touch to the microKORG. The delays can be synchronized with the arpeggiator or to an external MIDI clock, a great feature for live performances or for laying down tracks. All effects can be edited to create your own, unique sounds.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cXGwVDA7zVE&feature=player_embedded

Studio & live synthesizer

Review: The MiniNova is a compact, super-cool studio and live synth with the same sound engine as its big brother; the UltraNova. It comes with 256 x incredible onboard sounds that you can tweak with five knobs, or totally warp with 8 x animate buttons. It has up to 18 x voices with as many as five synth effects on each sound.

The MiniNova also has an onboard VocalTune effect as well as a classic vocoder so you can recreate iconic vocal sounds from hip hop, urban and electronic music.

Desktop synthesizer

Review: The Koe desktop is based on the Koe synth voice module and the Koneko midi to CV module in a laser cut clear acrylic case plus a power source.

This is the Koe module, it is japanese for voice because it is a complete synth voice in just one affordable module, if you are new to the modular world or if you want to add an extra voice to your sistem, this is for you.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=DQzMWNT0vks
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=TLMTcD57bDs
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EfnhzAtH6cY&feature=player_embedded

A unique hybrid 61-key synthesizer and MIDI controller

Review: The Analog Experience The Laboratory 61 is a 61-note MIDI keyboard with velocity and aftertouch-sensitive keys that is designed to easily integrate into any studio and stage environment.

Packaged with the Analog Laboratory software, it also offers straight-forward control over 3500 of the world's finest analog sounds. Browse sounds, tweak them, split your keyboard and launch loops. The 61-key controller offers unparalleled hands-on experience over the TAE synthesizer presets. Its plug-and-play connectivity and assignable controllers make it the ideal MIDI keyboard to control third party software or MIDI hardware devices.

The Laboratory keyboard can be easily used in any other software context. The Laboratory software is Arturia Analog's most advanced version of Analog Factory, giving you a new depth of access to the synth patches so you can really get in and customize the huge library of internationally designed presets. A new project mode allows several sounds to be played at the same time with the addition of an innovative sequence manager.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aJcHTG9YKaI&feature=pyv

Keyboard synthesizer

Review: Vintage and more.

With its unmistakably unique exterior and its inimitable sound, the microKorg set the standard for analog modeling synthesizers. The year 2008 saw the introduction of the microKorg XL, which inherited the microKorg's fat and powerful sounds, while adding keyboard staples such as electric piano and the CX-3 organ. And now, in the next evolutionary step, the microKorg XL+ delivers a fresh update to the sounds and design of the microKorg XL, making it the ideal compact keyboard.

The microKORG XL featured a sound selector that lets you choose your sound using 2 large dials: music genre and instrument category. The new microKORG XL+ offers an additional selection of these music genres to fit today's fast-moving music scene. Now you can select a program that matches your song more intuitively than ever. For even more convenience, you can also leave one of the dials fixed and only use the other dial to make program changes during a song (music genre fixed), or use the dial to select vocoder variations (instrument category fixed).

Lush analog modeled synthesizer sounds that are characteristic of the microKORG have been freshly added to the microKORG XL+. In addition, for band use, the microKORG XL+ comes equipped with the piano sound from Korg's classic stage piano, the SGproX (famous for its ability to stand out in your band's mix), as well as its hard-edged grand-type electric piano. This compact package also includes sounds from the M1 and the VOX organ, vintage tape-type string and flute machines, as well as other gorgeous sounds from keyboard history. Each of these 128 programs are genuinely usable sounds, giving the microKORG XL+ plenty of variety to serve as your main keyboard or of course as a secondary keyboard in your rig.

The microKORG XL+ projects a style that's reminiscent of vintage electric pianos, featuring a futuristic yet retro design with a stylish black panel. High-quality parts such as metal levers, dials that move with an audible click, and knobs with a sturdy operating feel are some of the ways that the microKORG XL+ outclasses other instruments in its range and enhances your experience editing synthesizer sounds.

The microKORG XL+'s sound engine uses MMT (Multiple Modeling Technology), borrowing from Korg's well proven wealth of analog modeling technology. The MMT sound engine has been featured on numerous products, and provides 2 oscillators that generate huge powerful sounds. Oscillator 1 (OSC1) gives you a total of 7 types of oscillator algorithm to choose from, including formant waveforms such as human voice, and PCM/DWGS waveforms for vintage keyboard and strings. It also lets you use techniques that cannot be imitated on typical PCM synthesizers, such as cross modulation, unison, and VPM (Variable Phase Modulation). By taking advantage of modulation (sync or ring) with oscillator 2 (OSC2), it's easy to create complex and powerful sounds.

The microKORG XL+ can function as a powerful vocoder that lets you connect a mic and use its audio input to shape the tonal character of the oscillator's sound to create talking effects. The vocoder consists of a 16-band filter bank that can simulate the vocoder sounds of the past and also shift the filter frequencies (Format Shift function) or adjust the level and pan of each band to dramatically change the sonic character. Using the Vocoder is an easy way to add sounds that can be found in today's popular electronic music. Since a gooseneck microphone is included, you can immediately start using thevocoder in your songs.

2 master effects utilize the effect engine that was brought to perfection in Korg's Kaoss Pad series, giving you a total of 17 powerful effect types including delay and echo effects as well as dramatic effects such as ring modulator and grain shifter. In addition, effects such as delay can be synchronized to MIDI clock for a wide range of possibilities in live performance.

10th anniversary limited edition Korg microKORG XL+ synthesizer/vocoder in black & red

Review: Updated in both its appearance and sounds, the microKORG XL+ is now available in limited-edition colour variations. With its black-based colour scheme, the microKORG XL+-BKBK is the Full Black model that emanates a sense of understated elegance, even when placed on a chaotic live stage. Simply seeing the distinctive contrasting keyboard and body colour of the Black x Red microKORG XL+ BKRD will inspire performances to a higher level.
Which model inspires you?

With its unmistakably unique exterior and its inimitable sound, the microKorg set the standard for analog modeling synthesizers. The year 2008 saw the introduction of the microKorg XL, which inherited the microKorg's fat and powerful sounds, while adding keyboard staples such as electric piano and the CX-3 organ. And now, in the next evolutionary step, the microKorg XL+ delivers a fresh update to the sounds and design of the microKorg XL, making it the ideal compact keyboard.

The microKORG XL featured a sound selector that lets you choose your sound using 2 large dials: music genre and instrument category. The new microKORG XL+ offers an additional selection of these music genres to fit today's fast-moving music scene. Now you can select a program that matches your song more intuitively than ever. For even more convenience, you can also leave one of the dials fixed and only use the other dial to make program changes during a song (music genre fixed), or use the dial to select vocoder variations (instrument category fixed).

Lush analog modeled synthesizer sounds that are characteristic of the microKORG have been freshly added to the microKORG XL+. In addition, for band use, the microKORG XL+ comes equipped with the piano sound from Korg's classic stage piano, the SGproX (famous for its ability to stand out in your band's mix), as well as its hard-edged grand-type electric piano. This compact package also includes sounds from the M1 and the VOX organ, vintage tape-type string and flute machines, as well as other gorgeous sounds from keyboard history. Each of these 128 programs are genuinely usable sounds, giving the microKORG XL+ plenty of variety to serve as your main keyboard or of course as a secondary keyboard in your rig.

The microKORG XL+ projects a style that's reminiscent of vintage electric pianos, featuring a futuristic yet retro design with a stylish black panel. High-quality parts such as metal levers, dials that move with an audible click, and knobs with a sturdy operating feel are some of the ways that the microKORG XL+ outclasses other instruments in its range and enhances your experience editing synthesizer sounds.

The microKORG XL+'s sound engine uses MMT (Multiple Modeling Technology), borrowing from Korg's well proven wealth of analog modeling technology. The MMT sound engine has been featured on numerous products, and provides 2 oscillators that generate huge powerful sounds. Oscillator 1 (OSC1) gives you a total of 7 types of oscillator algorithm to choose from, including formant waveforms such as human voice, and PCM/DWGS waveforms for vintage keyboard and strings. It also lets you use techniques that cannot be imitated on typical PCM synthesizers, such as cross modulation, unison, and VPM (Variable Phase Modulation). By taking advantage of modulation (sync or ring) with oscillator 2 (OSC2), it's easy to create complex and powerful sounds.

The microKORG XL+ can function as a powerful vocoder that lets you connect a mic and use its audio input to shape the tonal character of the oscillator's sound to create talking effects. The vocoder consists of a 16-band filter bank that can simulate the vocoder sounds of the past and also shift the filter frequencies (Format Shift function) or adjust the level and pan of each band to dramatically change the sonic character. Using the Vocoder is an easy way to add sounds that can be found in today's popular electronic music. Since a gooseneck microphone is included, you can immediately start using thevocoder in your songs.

2 master effects utilize the effect engine that was brought to perfection in Korg's Kaoss Pad series, giving you a total of 17 powerful effect types including delay and echo effects as well as dramatic effects such as ring modulator and grain shifter. In addition, effects such as delay can be synchronized to MIDI clock for a wide range of possibilities in live performance.

Synthesizer with 2 x VCOs, 2 x multi-mode filters, 1 x ADSR envelope and 2 x LFOs

Review: The mk2 version is technically identical to the old version but it comes in a nice looking, black anodized metal housing with wooden sides.

The Microzwerg not only bridges the gap between Nanozwerg and Kraftzwerg. Due to its dual multimode-filter, it also offers an individual signal-path with specific sound potential. Microzewrg's numerous patch connections are perfect for interfacing with other analog synthesizers or sequencers.

The Microzwerg Mk2 has 2 x VCOs, 2 x multi-mode filters, 1 x ADSR envelope and 2 x LFOs.

Oscillators: VCO1: triangle, sawtooth, square and needle impulse VCO2: triangle, sawtooth, square and noise. Maximum detuning of oscillators is one octave. Oscillator synchronisation possible via a patch cable.

The 2 x filters are 12dB/octave state variable multi-mode filters with resonance up to self-oscillation and the filter types available are low pass, band pass, high pass and notch (band reject). The filters are coupled serially for creating new filter types like dual band passes or to double the slope when both filters are set to the same filter type. By patching a cable you can set both filters parallel. there are common cutoff and resonance controls for both filters. the space control shifts the cutoff frequencies. Each filter has an own audio input e.g. for filtering external aufio signals.

The envelope is a classic ADSR type.

The 2 x LFOs offer 4 x waveform shapes each and a one-shot-function, where the selected waveform is played only once after a gate-trigger, thus imitating a simple envelope that might be used for pitch or VCA control. LFO 2 includes a sample & hold. Internal modulation wirings offer LFO control over the filters' cutoff as well as the oscillators' pitch or VCO 2's pulse width. LFO 2's speed can be modulated by an external control voltage, allowing increasing or decreasing the speed by a factor of 30. Using this feature, the Microzwerg is capable of extreme slow and fast modulations.

The signal-path VCO 1/2-VCF 1/2-VCA as well as the common main modulations is internally prewired, so that Microzwerg can be played immediately. All further routings are created using the patch jacks. These can be used or controlled by Microzwerg itself or any compatible external device.

The Microzwerg can be controlled by MIDI from any compatible keyboard or DAW. Note commands are received as well as pitch-wheel (+/- 2 semitones) and modulation-wheel data, the latter controlling the filter's cutoff frequency.

A monophonic stand-alone synthesizer with USB and MIDI interface

Review: The Dark Energy II is a monophonic stand-alone synthesizer with USB and MIDI interface. The sound generation and all modulation sources are 100% analog, only the USB/MIDI interface contains digital components. The Dark Energy is built into a rugged black metal case with wooden side plates. High quality potentiometers with metal shafts are used and each potentiometer, except the filter mode control, is fixed to the case (no wobbly shafts and knobs). The distance between the controls is a bit wider compared to A-100 modules and knobs with vintage look are used.

VCO:

Sawtooth based VCO core
Manual tune control (with an internal jumper the range can be set to ~ +/-1 half an octave or ~ +/-2.5 octaves)
Range switch -1 / 0 / +1 octave
FM (frequency modulation) control with modulation source switch (LFO1 / off / ADSR)
Manual pulsewidth control for rectangle waveform
PWM control with modulation source switch (LFO2 / off / ADSR)
Waveform switch (sawtooth / off / clipped/inverted sawtooth)
The sum of the waveform chosen by this switch and the rectangle is fed into the VCF (to turn the rectangle off the PW control has to be set fully CCW)
External CV input for VCO frequency (1V/octave)
External CV input for external PWM of the rectangle
Internal CV input for frequency (1V/octave) connected to the CV1 output of the built-in USB/Midi interface
Because of the pure analog circuit and the temperature control it may take up to 30 minutes until the VCO is in tune.

VCF:

12dB multimode filter with lowpass, notch, highpass and bandpass
Mode control for continuous transition from lowpass via notch to highpass and along to bandpass
Manual frequency control
Tracking switch half - off - full (internally connected to the external frequency CV input of the VCO, i.e. the VCF tracks to the VCO if the switch is set to half or full position)
Exponential frequency modulation control (XFM) with modulation source switch (LFO2 / off / ADSR), the XFM control has polarizer function, i.e. the modulation source (LFO2 or ADSR) selected by the Source switch may affect the filter frequency in a positive (right half of the control range) or negative way (left half of the control range)
Manual resonance control (up to self oscillation)
External audio input (this signal is added to the VCO signal)
External CV input for filter frequency
1V/octave tracking for usage of the VCF as a sine wave oscillator over a few octaves (not as precise as the VCO and not temperature compensated, but much better than most of the other filters)

VCA:

Manual amplitude control (initial gain)
AM (amplitude modulation) control with modulation source switch (LFO1 / off / ADSR)
External CV input for VCA amplitude
Exponential scale.

LFO1 and LFO2:

Manual frequency control
Waveform switch (triangle / off / rectangle)
Range switch (low, audio, medium)
LED display (dual green/red color for positive/negative share of the signal)
The LFO1 signal is available as an additional socket (to use the LFO1 signal for external modules)
An internal jumper can be used to select between the LFO1 signal or the inverted LFO1 signal.

ADSR:

Manual controls for Attack, Decay, Sustain, Release
Range switch (long, short, medium)
Blue LED display
ADSR signal is available as an additional socket (to use the ADSR signal for external modules)
External Gate input (normalled via switching contact of the socket to the Gate output of the built-in USB/Midi interface)

USB/MIDI-interface:

MIDI channel and reference note are adjusted by means of a learn button and LED at the rear panel. The interface generates the gate signal that controls the envelope generator and 3 x analog control voltages: CV1 is used to control the pitch of the VCO, CV2 the VCF frequency (free assignable Midi controller) and CV3 is available as an additional socket at the rear panel (controlled by volume/velocity). It can be patched e.g. to the VCA control input.

The 3 x CVs and the gate signal are also available at the rear panel as jack sockets cascading of several units via internal MIDI O/I connection, because of shortage of space the unit has no MIDI output socket available this connection has to be established internally, for this the metal case has a hole on both sides so that the MIDI O/I connection can be made via this hole provided that both units are mounted to one another, the MIDI output has thru function with one exception: the signal does not include the MIDI note messages that have been processed already, consequently polyphonic cascading (all daisy-chained Dark Energies on the same MIDI channel) or monophonic cascading (different MIDI channels) is possible, it's possible to connect only the first unit to USB and pass on the MIDI data via the internal MIDI link to other devices.

*** B-STOCK: Box opened but product is new & unused ***

Review: The Casio XW-G1 Groove Synthesizer keyboard is designed with today's DJ in mind, incorporating step and phrase synthesizers, hands-on control and a sample looper.

The Casio XW-G1 can create and play back a variety of rhythm patterns and musical phrases, all in a single unit. Users can enjoy playing an all-in-one instrument that enables control of cool sounds via sets of nine sliders, 16 Step Sequencer buttons and four assignable knobs arranged on the left side of the top panel.

Rhythmic patterns can be sequenced end-to-end to create entire songs and grooves and then be manipulated in real time with the set of 16 buttons. The phrase sequencer lets users create and play back musical phrases that spice up DJ performances, and up to 100 musical phrases can be spontaneously played on the keyboard and be stored in memory as user phrases.

The sample looper in the Casio XW-G1 digitally records any sound and this can be overdubbed to build up complete grooves with ease. Sampled sounds that are saved as user tones can be played in keyboard performances and looped to create original on-the-fly music. 420 preset tones including Solo Synthesizer and PCM tones can be quickly accessed in keyboard performances and the arpeggiator can automatically spice up melodies just by pressing keys.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FILSSI0QItg

Lightweight keyboard synthesizer with 37-note velocity-sensitive keyboard

Review: Who says keyboardists need to hide behind their gear? Liberate yourself and roam free with the AX-09 Keytar Synthesizer.

The AX-09 Keytar is compact, lightweight, and loaded with great sounds, all easily selectable with the onboard category buttons. Plug in a USB stick and add backing tracks to your performances with the Audio Player function, or plug in an MP3/CD player and jam along with your favourite songs. This ultra-light Keytar synth is designed to fit all musicians. It's super easy to use yet it packs a heavyweight musical punch with its stellar sounds and expressive controls.

The AX-09 Keytar is packed with dozens of high quality sounds spanning a wide stylistic range from scorching synth leads to silk-smooth pads. Find the perfect sound quickly with the category buttons, and press the preview button to hear the currently selected sound with a pre-programmed riff. Assign your top 12 x sounds to the favourites bank for instant, one button recall. Volume and reverb level settings can be stored with each Favourite.

Plug into traditional power with an AC adaptor (included) or roam free with batteries. Jam for hours (approximately 4 x hours of continuous use per 8-battery load). with 8 x standard AA batteries installed (Ni-MH AA rechargeable batteries). A battery-strength indicator lets you know when battery power is getting low so you never miss a note onstage.

The built-in audio player feature lets you sound like an entire band. Simply load up a USB stick with your favourite songs in MP3, WAV, or AIFF format, plug it into AX-09's USB port, select the song you want, press Play, and jam along.

Put a personal stamp on your performances with the expressive controllers built into the AX-09. Wave your hands over the invisible D Beam for dramatic effects, and dig your fingers into the modulation bar and touch control to bend, twist, and sculpt each sound you play.

http://www.roland.co.uk/products/productdetails.aspx?p=10261&tab=Downloads

Keyboard synthesizer

Review: The Casio XW-G1 Groove Synthesizer keyboard is designed with today's DJ in mind, incorporating step and phrase synthesizers, hands-on control and a sample looper.

The Casio XW-G1 can create and play back a variety of rhythm patterns and musical phrases, all in a single unit. Users can enjoy playing an all-in-one instrument that enables control of cool sounds via sets of nine sliders, 16 Step Sequencer buttons and four assignable knobs arranged on the left side of the top panel.

Rhythmic patterns can be sequenced end-to-end to create entire songs and grooves and then be manipulated in real time with the set of 16 buttons. The phrase sequencer lets users create and play back musical phrases that spice up DJ performances, and up to 100 musical phrases can be spontaneously played on the keyboard and be stored in memory as user phrases.

The sample looper in the Casio XW-G1 digitally records any sound and this can be overdubbed to build up complete grooves with ease. Sampled sounds that are saved as user tones can be played in keyboard performances and looped to create original on-the-fly music. 420 preset tones including Solo Synthesizer and PCM tones can be quickly accessed in keyboard performances and the arpeggiator can automatically spice up melodies just by pressing keys.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FILSSI0QItg

Review: The original desktop Evolver is a compact monophonic synthesizer that packs an amazing amount of sonic power into a small package. It features two analog oscillators and two digital oscillators utilizing the waves from the legendary Prophet VS. Classic Curtis analog lowpass filters and real analog VCAs round out the analog section. But what really sets the Evolver apart from the rest of the pack is the way in which analog and digital are integrated. The LFOs, step sequencer, and three separate delays can all be synced for massive, rhythmic, time-based effects in stereo.

Analog synthesizer

Review: The Arturia MiniBrute is a revolutionary new analog synthesizer. Featuring a pure analog signal path and a host of unique features, it sets a new standard for what a hardware synthesizer should be.

Its 100% analog audio signal path features a VCO wave mixer, the classic Steiner-Parker multimode filter, as well as numerous analog innovations such as the Metalizer, Ultrasaw, and the Brute Factor. Boasting a complete MIDI, CV and USB connectivity, the MiniBrute is right at home with your computer or your vintage synths, making it the ideal companion to deliver a pure analog blast anywhere you go.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T7O946lG7Ik

A modified version of the standard Etherwave Theremin Kit with the additional electronics

Review: Now you can build your very own Etherwave Plus. This build-it-yourself kit has an unfinished wood cabinet and pre-built circuit board. Several wiring points require soldering.

All Etherwaver Plus Kits ship with a DVD containing 2 video tutorials: Clara Rockmore: the Greatest Theremin Virtuosa, and Mastering the Theremin, featuring Lydia Kavina.

For full assembly instructions download both the Etherwave Assembly instructions and the Etherwave Plus Field Upgrade instructions.

Performance synthesizer ideal for live performance

Review: The Casio XW-P1 Performance Synthesizer is ideal for live performance in any situation, being light-weight and slim-line with the ability to run off dry-cell batteries.

The XW-P1 has a wide selection of presets including Solo Synthesizer, Hex Layer, Drawbar Organ tones, and a wealth of PCM and Synth waveforms. Performance setups can be pre-defined for quick access and sounds can be layered and split across four keyzones. On-board phrase and step sequencers can create instant beats and phrases, and the arpeggiator gives instant melodic movement to any sound.

SMF data or audio data saved on an SD card can be played back while playing the keyboard, and MIDI devices, microphones, audio players, and other equipment can be connected using the various input and outputs. The Casio XW-P1 can also accommodate external sound modules and portable audio equipment that be placed on the designated rubber holding space for a convenient live setup.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fLrWoS0JXGs

32-step step sequencer (240V only)

Review: MFB's step-sequencer Urzwerg Pro is the extended version of the Urzwerg. This advanced version has been inspired by feature requests and suggestions of many users to ensure better flexibility than ever. Most prominently, the URZWERG PRO now offers output of MIDI-notes and -controllers as well as 32 x individual step LEDs to keep track of the sequences' status.

THe Urzwerg Pro offers 32 x steps that can either be used for 2 x sequences with up to 16 x steps each or with 4 x sequences with up to 8 x steps each. You may control up to 4 x synthesizers or CV-controllable parameters in an analogue modular system simultaneously. Using the MIDI-output allows to address 4 x separate synthesizers or multitimbral parts in a single synthesizer. In addition, you may play your MIDI-synth with 2, 3 or voices polyphony. When playing it duo-phonically, the 2 x remaining tracks can be used to control velocity and mod-wheel-data (MIDI-CC 01). Using it with 3 x polyphonic voices, still allows for velocity control.

In 4 x 8 mode, the Urzwerg Pro can control up to 4 x individual Nanozwerg synths using CV/gate. As another example, you can also control and individually modulate pitch, pulse width, filter-cutoff and LFO-speed in MFB's Kraftzwerg. Finally, using the Urzwerg Pro in combination with a modular synthesizer-system will allow for even more versatile options. The Urzwerg Pro's gate- and CV-inputs are fully compatible to all common eurorack-format modular systems.

The use of MIDI allows similar applications as using CV/gate connections but will add further functionality. Sounds can be played polyphonically with up to 4 x voices. Using the Urzwerg Pro duo-phonically or as dual-monophonic, you can use the remaining 2 x MIDI-controllers to output velocity and mod-wheel-data in parallel with the first 2 x tracks. In a CV/gate-based synthesizer, all parameters with CV-input can be addressed directly. On the contrary, MIDI-control through Urzwerg Pro always also depends on the routing-options of the connected instrument.

The Urzwerg Pro was designed for intuitive operation. All functions feature designated controls for editing while the sequencer is running. For best overview, the Urzwerg Pro now features LEDs per step. These LEDs do not only visualize the sequence current position but also the skip-buttons' status. While setting the MIDI-channel and the operating modes, these LEDs also function as a display.

When using the Urzwerg Pro on stage, you can set, edit and remove steps live. In addition, you can also modify the sequences' directions and their individual lengths. As a new feature, the Urzwerg Pro features a random-function to playback a row's steps at random. Another novelty is the auto-glide-function. Here, as in the TB-303, glide will only become active with tied notes.

The Urzwerg Pro allows setting of independent gate-lengths, ranges and glides for rows 1/2 and 3/4. Range defines the CV-range for the step-knobs between 1-10V. For pitch control, the range up to 5V can be quantized. Here, we have added four different scalings to chose from: semitones, whole tones, pentatonic, hexatonic.

All 4 x rows feature skip-buttons per step to activate/deactivate gate-triggers for these positions. Alternatively, the skip-buttons can also deactivate the CV-step-control. To add more liveliness, Urzwerg also offers two optimized shuffle-modes.

The Urzwerg Pro provides 4 x gate- and CV-outputs to control compatible analogue synthesizers and modular systems. Start-I/O and Clock-I/O allow the URZWERG PRO to be synchronized to and sync other analogue sequencers. The additional CV-Clock-input allows for dynamic tempo-control, e.g. using an external LFO or a CV-controller. To sync Urzwerg Pro via MIDI, the unit can send and receive start/stop-commands as well as MIDI-clock. In addition, it is possible to transpose sequences and address individual steps using a MIDI-keyboard or DAW.

MFB's Urzwerg Pro has the following dimensions: 350 x 180 x 60mm. An external power supply is included.

Moog analog bass synthesizer

Review: The Minitaur is a compact analog bass synthesizer that features a classic one knob per function layout. It is the first instrument in the Taurus family that does not have foot pedals.

The Minitaur has all the growl, snarl and body associated with the Taurus family of bass synthesizers. Moog are really excited to be able to offer this in such a compact package that is both immediately playable as an extremely versatile analog synth and also integrates seamlessly into the world of MIDI and USB control environments, says Cyril Lance, Chief Engineer of Moog Music.

The Taurus Bass Pedals enjoy a nearly 40-year history and have made a seismic impact in the music world since their introduction in the mid-Seventies. The Taurus opened up so many possibilities for me, it also opened up a whole way of looking at what I do, says Geddy Lee, of the multi-platinum band Rush.

In 2009, Moog Music released the Taurus 3 Bass Pedals, a modern reinterpretation of the classic Taurus Bass Pedals. The Taurus 3 is currently used by artists such as The Black Keys, Animal Collective, Jean Michel Jarre, Yes, Weezer, Rush and The Dave Matthews Band.

Since the inception of Moog Music, Bob Moog tested his ideas, instruments and sounds on musicians as a key part of the product development process. In keeping with this tradition, Minitaur has been presented to a broad array of producers, artists and songwriters including Geddy Lee of Rush, techno legend Derrick May, Flying Lotus, Moby, the renowned record producer Nick Raskulinecz as a part of the final product development process. The enthusiastic response from these artists marks the beginning of the next generation in the Taurus Bass Synthesizer line.

In keeping with this tradition, Minitaur has been presented to a broad array of producers, artists and songwriters including Geddy Lee of Rush, techno legend Derrick May, Flying Lotus, Moby, Holy F*ck and renowned record producer Nick Raskulinecz as a part of the final product development process. The enthusiastic response from these artists marks the beginning of the next generation in the Taurus Bass Synthesizer line.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TvG-yyjLDbs