Tuesday, December 17, 2019

Behringer Neutron + Eurorack DEMO [Nanotech]


Spacy tech demo track. Headphones recommended.

Concurrent Bass + Percussion | Behringer Neutron
Sparse Lead | 101-VCO | 2xVCA | Mutable Clouds
Arpeggio | Basimilus Iteritas Alter | Mutable Rings
Effects | Timefactor | Big Sky
Euro Performance Mix | Infusor-X
Sub-mix | Mackie 802-VLZ3
Sequences | Beatstep Pro
Post-Processing | Cubase 7

Recorded live in 1 shot to Tascam DR-05

Tuesday, November 19, 2019

Behringer VC340 Vocoder + 101-VCO [Demo #1]


Today the gorgeous sounds of the Behringer VC340 Vocoder
Strings and Choir paired with my 101-VCO on arpeggio.
101-VCO going to my 101-VCF for that classic SH-101 sound.
Future Retro Transient is going to the vocoder mic input.
Transient is modulated by Batumi to result in those
shifting vocoder effects - almost chanting/talking?
Arturia Drumbrute Impact is clocked to the Beatstep Pro.
Some Big Sky reverb and Timefactor Delay.

Recorded direct to Tascam DR-05.
More info on my 101-VCO

Tuesday, November 12, 2019

Behringer Neutron First Patch [Demo #1]


Today a first patch soundscape/sequence on my new muse,
the Behringer Neutron. Listen that on headphones. No, really.

I haven't come across any compelling demos on the Neutron.
It has great specs, but not much attention was given.
Until I had a chance to play one last weekend at the Dallas Synth Meet.
HOLY SHNITZEL. This thing blew me away.
The analog BBD delay section is one of the nicest.
So responsive, expressive,
...and lovely thick feedback harmonics.
You can ride the feedback right up to pure chaos, then
back away. It will abide your every move.
And every time I tweaked something it got better and better.
I am really looking forward to getting more cutting edge
sound design with this one!

Sequencing: Beatstep Pro
Recorded Direct to Tascam DR-05.
Additional delay using Timefactor Delay.

Thursday, October 24, 2019

SH2-VCF IS BACK! Version 2 using BA662 clones

I am happy to announce the SH2-VCF is available once again.
It was very important that Version 2 had all the same glory.
And the BA662 clones this one uses can definitely deliver the goods.
For more details visit Modular Grid
Be sure to check this out and my other cool modules in my Reverb Store

Tuesday, October 22, 2019

Sequencing a Univox Minikorg 700S [Demo #3] Using KVP + Beatstep Pro


Third video on the Univox Minikorg.
This Minikorg has been modified to take an external pitch CV + gate signal.
It expects pitch in hz/v and lo-active gates.
While the Beatstep Pro can do it - it's a global setting.
Using my KVP module to convert the signals, it means I don't need to mess w/ the BSP globals whenever I hook up a Korg product.

Timestamp
0:00 Pt 1: Delay- Timefactor
1:36 Pt 2: Percussion - Basimilus Iteritas Alter, FR Transient (hats)
3:13 Pt 3: Percussion - Basimilus Iteritas Alter
Bass Pad - 101-VCO/101-VCF/106-Chorus
Delay - Timefactor
Reverb - Big Sky

KVP details at Modular Grid.

Recorded direct to Tascam DR-05.

Tuesday, October 8, 2019

Korg MS-20 Controlled By Eurorack


ime to kick back and let this play in the background.

Been wanting to try the MS-20 w/ Temps Utile and Ornament and Crime. Using the KVP to achieve that. Beats from Basimilus Iteritas Alter. Kick from FR Transient. Some delay and reverb used.

Recorded direct to Tascam DR-05.

Thursday, October 3, 2019

Introducing KVP - A Pitch CV + Gate Processor for Korg MS-20


Today I am introducing my new module - the KVP.
KVP is a pitch and gate CV processor that makes the MS-20 compatable w/ Eurorack (v/oct).
It works for the vintage MS-20, the MS-20 Mini reissue as well as the Behringer K-2.
And any manufacturer synth using the Hz/v standard.

Percussion: Basimilus Iteritas Alter
Sequencing: Arturia Beatstep Pro
Delay: Timefactor
Reverb: Big Sky

KVP details at Modular Grid
KVP is available exclusively in my Reverb store.

Saturday, September 28, 2019

Meet the Makers of Modular

GSE is humbled to be included in a Tech Crunch article focusing on the makers of modular synthesizers.

"Fuelled by passion not venture capital, most companies in the Eurorack space are neither startups nor established OEMs. Instead – and quite remarkably – the industry remains a long tail of boutique manufacturers, with some of the best-sellers still operating as one-person shops." -Steve O'Hear, Tech Crunch article "Meet the Makers of Modular"

Continue to read the full article HERE.

Tuesday, September 24, 2019

101E Output Expander for 101-VCO Now Available

Introducing my 101E Output Expander for the 101-VCO.
101E adds buffered, individual wave outputs from the 101-VCO.
I will show how to interconnect them.
And just a few things you can do with the expansion.

Links for more information...
101E
101-VCO
Buy

Tuesday, September 10, 2019

GSE 101-VCO Audio Only [Demo 3] (Roland SH-101) (No Talking)


Audio only demo of my new 101-VCO with the 101-VCF. The 101-VCO is Eurorack adaptation the Roland SH-101 voltage controlled oscillator. Feeding it various sequences and CVs while changing the settings. At the end I mix an envelope signal with the pitch CV to get a nice PWM Hoover sound, then plug a second oscillator into the Hard Sync.

101-VCO full details at Modular Grid

Recorded direct to Tascam DR-05.
No additional effects or processing.

Friday, August 30, 2019

First Batch 101-VCO Sub-Octave Generator Issue

Attention first batch VCO-101 buyers: I've been hashing over the prototype and noticing some situations result in poor performance of the Sub Octave Generator. I realize this sucks very much now, and would love to make some simple mods to your unit so the Sub generator works brilliantly.

Buyers can ship their unit back to me affordably using first class mail and I'll make the necessary mods, then I'll ship it back at no charge.

FWIW, the second batch boards will have the right mods. Third batch boards will have redesigned PCBs w/ the fix. Thank you for your attention and kind patience.

GSE 101-VCO Complete Overview [Demo 2] (Roland SH-101)


Today I am giving a full overview of my new 101-VCO. The 101-VCO is a Eurorack adaptation the Roland SH-101 voltage controlled oscillator.
While I tune and calibrate the 101-VCO before send them out, your module may require fine Tuning adjustment to suit your system.
Only very small adjustments to TR1 and possibly TR2 should be required.
However the Tuning section of this overview covers the full tune calibration procedure.

Timestamps
0:00 Audio - FM on Pulse + Sub w/ PWM
0:36 Waveforms
1:52 Audio - FM on Triangle
2:06 Tune, Range, FM and FM Type
3:01 Audio - Sequenced Pulse + Sub
3:31 Sync
4:02 Complete Tune Calibration Procedure
6:30 Audio

101-VCO full details at Modular Grid

Recorded direct to Tascam DR-05.
No additional effects or processing.

Wednesday, August 28, 2019

101-VCO First Look Eurorack Oscillator [Demo 1] (Roland SH-101)


Quick 1-minute demo sounding off some waveforms of my new 101-VCO.
101-VCO is a eurorack adaptation of the SH-101 oscillator section.
Including sub-octave generator, octave range switch, and PWM.
Plus FM, Hard and Soft Sync I'll show in a future video.

Filter: GSE 101-VCF
Envelope: GSE 2xADSR
Kick Drum: GSE Pro-VCF in self oscillation + Bastl Skis.
Sequencing: Arturia Beatstep Pro

A more thorough overview is coming soon.
101-VCO full details at Modular Grid

Recorded direct to Tascam DR-05.
No additional effects or processing.

Wednesday, August 14, 2019

GSE Announces the 101-VCO in Red and Blue Panel

GSE is pleased to announce my first VCO module. There are many 3340 VCOs out there, but none like this. The 101- VCO is an authentic realization of the Roland SH-101 voltage controlled oscillator adapted to Eurorack. The 101-VCO packs a dizzying array of the original circuit features sorely lacking from other modules: that lovely Sub-Octave Generator, that snowy Noise Generator, an integrated Mixer section to bring all the waves together, and a dedicated octave Range switch. Most of all - that sound you’ve been wanting. Needing. Waiting.

101-VCO also expands the original features to reveal the full potential of the CEM3340 chip: Triangle wave, Hard and Soft sync, Exponential FM. And 2 flavors of Linear FM: Lo Range to find those vibrato sweet spots, and Hi Range for full-on Linear FM madness. Expand the palette of original sounds using an external CV signal for Pulse Width Modulation that is summed against the initial Pulse Width amount. While the initial PW amount can go right up to the edge of vanishing, PWM can take the Width right down to 0% up to 100% for complete cancellation.

Great care was taken to keep the 101-VCO fully analog circuit as close to the original as possible. Featuring an OnChip CEM3340 re-issue at the core of the design, surrounded by nine 20mm slide pot controls. When this well-calibrated beauty drops into your rack, the CEM3340 pitch tracking might become the standard by which you track your other oscillators. You will always be close to the correct center frequency when you boot your system, there is a fine range +/- 3 semitone Tune slide pot that can get you there. There’s even a 5-pin header on the back panel: it’s for a future planned expansion module (sold separately) providing all buffered, DC-coupled individual wave outputs. Every 101-VCO is meticulously hand-crafted in limited quantities, not mass-produced, and ready to rock your world.

Watch Modular Grid for pricing and Availability.
Be sure to check out my other cool modules available in my Reverb store.

Tuesday, August 13, 2019

Tweaking Sounds on a Korg MS20 While Sequenced [Demo #5]

Tweaking sounds on an Korg MS-20 while getting sequenced by Beatstep Pro. I'm using a little circuit that converts the eurorack standard to pitch CV and gate triggers the MS-20 can understand.

Tuesday, July 30, 2019

Pro VCF Eurorack Filter First Look [Demo #1]


The Pro VCF is a faithful adaptation of a well-known 4-pole synthesizer filter in Eurorack.
The core of this design lies an Alfa AS3320 filter chip based on the original Curtis.
Let's put the Pro VCF through some paces.

Timestamps
0:00 Opening
0:23 Intro
1:01 Audio
0:19 Features
1:49 Audio
2:04 Input: analog PWM, Saw (Pittsburgh Synth Box)
2:43 Input: Digital Wavetable (E352) (PPG anyone?)
3:22 FM of Cutoff

More info at Modular Grid
Now available in my Reverb Store.
Audio recorded direct to Tascam DR-05.
No added effects.

Sequencing - Arturia Beatstep Pro Pitch CV + gate

Monday, July 22, 2019

Announcing the Pro VCF Eurorack Module

Coming next week: the Pro VCF.
The Pro VCF is a faithful adaptation of a well-known 4-pole synthesizer filter in Eurorack.
The core of this design lies an Alfa AS3320 filter chip based on the original Curtis. Countless synthesizers used the 3320: Sequential Pro One, Prophet 5 rev 3, Drumtraks, Crumar Trilogy, Stratus, Elka Synthex, some Fairlight CMI, Linndrum, Oberheim OB-8, OB-Xa, PPG Wave 2
At full resonance the Pro VCF can self-oscillate.

FEATURES
Two selectable filter slopes: original 24 db/oct, and 12 db/oct.
Two voltage controlled input jacks for frequency CUTOFF w/ signal attenuators.
A voltage controlled input jack for RESONANCE w/ a signal attenuator.
Two signal input jacks w/ individual attenuators. At full clockwise, these inputs can overdrive the filter from most eurorack oscillators and audio sources.

More details at Modular Grid

Tuesday, July 9, 2019

Infusor-X [Comprehensive Overview] Eurorack VC FX Bus Switch / 10-Ch Mixer


This is a comprehensive overview of my new Infusor-X Eurorack module.
Switcher mode jumps between your effects modules on the fly – in timing w/ your groove.
MIXER mode is a straightforward 10-Channel Audio Sub-Mixer.

0:00 Quick Overview / Front + Back Layout
1:50 SWITCHER mode
2:50 PROGRAM mode for user CV Breakpoints
5:35 MIXER mode

To learn more about Infusor-X
and for module availability visit Modular Grid

Wednesday, July 3, 2019

My DC571 Lo-Fi Dual Compressor Has Returned

Bringing this one back out of retirement.
Currently available in my Reverb Store.

There's nothing like an Analog Compressor to warm up your sound.
Make percussion grooves a little punchier, bass a bit snappier, and glue the mix together.
My DC571 module has TWO fully independent channels of no-nonsense audio compression made especially to give your Eurorack some of that subltle swingin' groove.
You can even cascade channel 1 output into channel 2 for even more compression.
The DC571 uses an 80s design dual compander chip (still in production) to work its mojo.
Each channel has controls for input level attenuation, output make-up gain, and a true bypass switch.
The DC571 is hand-crafted in USA in limited quantities.

Tuesday, July 2, 2019

Infusor-X Eurorack First Look / VC FX Bus / 10-CH Mixer [No Talking]


Taking the new Infusor-X for a spin.
Switcher mode jumps between your effects modules on the fly – in timing w/ your groove.
MIXER mode is a straightforward 10-Channel Audio Sub-Mixer.

0:00 Switcher Mode: Manual
0:35 Switcher Mode: CV using Beatstep Pro
1:27 Mixer Mode Jam

Switcher Mode Effects:
ch1 / Dry
ch2 / JP6-VCF
ch3 / 2HP Freez
ch4 / Mutable Instruments Warps
ch5 / Mutable Instruments Clouds (uBurst)
ch6 / Synthrotek 308 Distortion
ch7 / Pittsburgh Analog Replicator
ch8 / GSE Spring Tank Reverb

Mixer Mode
ch1 / Arturia Drumbrute Impact
ch2 / Behringer Model D
ch3-4 / Roland Juno-1 Stereo / uBurst
ch5 / 3340 VCO / GSE 101-VCF / Analog Replicator
ch6 / Pittsburgh Synthesizer Box / GSE SH2-VCF / GSE 2xVCA
ch7 / Synthesis Technology E352 Out 1 / GSE 2xVCA
ch8 / E352 Out 2 / Bastl Skis

A more in-depth overview coming in a future video.
To learn more about Infusor-X visit Modular Grid

Monday, June 24, 2019

Transistor-82 Lo-Fi Oscillator FM Demo #2


I was contacted by Frederic on Reverb about my Transistor-82 analog percussion module.
He was wondering about the range of the oscillator pitch CV input.
And what it sounds like with oscillator FM.
Be warned, there are some pretty rough sounds ahead.
Audio recorded direct to Tascam DR-05, no added effects.

Infusor-X VC FX Bus Switch / 10-Ch Active Audio Mixer

Summer is about to get a little bit hotter.

It's a mixer, it's a VC FX bus routing switcher.
Coming July 2019. Details at Modular Grid

Tuesday, June 11, 2019

Erica Synths Sample Drum USER REVIEW Eurorack [Pt. 2/2]



Today I am continuing my user review of the Erica Synths Sample Drum. I will be covering the On-Board Effects, CV Mapping, Performance Mode, Saving Projects, and global settings. Along the way I'll try a couple of interesting experiments using the features covered. Be sure to hang around for the end of the video where I'll share my final thoughts.

Audio samples were recorded and processed in ocenaudio.

0:00 Opening Intro
0:52 On Board Effects
1:35 CV Mapping
3:18 Sample Drum as an Oscillator?
4:44 Performance Mode
5:26 Saving Projects
6:21 Mult-sampled Instrument Project
7:45 Global Settings
9:04 Final Thoughts

Recorded direct to Tascam DR-05.
No outboard effects nor processing of any kind.

Tuesday, June 4, 2019

Erica Synths Sample Drum USER REVIEW Eurorack [Pt. 1/2]


Today I am giving another new product user review, this time the Erica Synths Sample Drum Eurorack Module. The Sample Drum is described as an easy-to-use, two voice, modular sample player designed with percussion and loops in mind. So how does the Sample Drum perform as a loop playback sampler? Can it be as crunchy as your Akais or Emus? Let's see.

Recorded direct to Tascam DR-05. No outboard effects nor processing of any kind.

Thursday, May 23, 2019

GSE 4023-VCF Filter Demo #3 Saturated Drums


In a previous video I showed how the 4023-VCF has some lovely saturation with synthesizer sounds.
Today I will be running some percussion though the filter. In most cases, when the input slider is above 60% the filter input will start to become overdriven. Resulting in a warm and fuzzy distortion.
I'll be using control voltages to use the saturated filter as a gate,which can change-up the grooves.

Audio recorded direct to Tascam DR-05.
No additional effects other than what you see.

0:00 Opening
0:15 Talking
Audio Demos
0:52 Roland Tr-8
3:33 Drumbrute Impact
5:43 Future Retro Transient+

Modulations
Envelope Contours - 2xADSR dual envelope
LFO - Batumi
Reverb - GSE Spring Tank Reverb Driver
Sequencing - Beatstep Pro

Wednesday, May 22, 2019

SH2-VCF Temporarily Unavailable

I have pulled the SH2-VCF to resolve a known bug w/ the resonance section. It was very important to me to make the module as close to the same circuit as the original. However, adapting circuits to eurorack isn't always simple. Most likely, because of the difference in operating voltages. If all goes well, the resonance response will be much better in the end. Stay tuned, the SH2-VCF will be returning.

Tuesday, May 14, 2019

GSE 4023-VCF Demo #2 Lovely Saturation


Darkwave, deep house, tribal and Carpenter-esque sounds ahead.
Of the filters I'm offering, 4023-VCF has the most lovely saturation to me.
In most cases, when the input slider is above 60% the filter input will start to become overdriven.
Resulting in a warm and fuzzy distortion.
Audio recorded direct to Tascam DR-05.
Some use of the Timefactor Delay and Big Sky Reverb.

0:00 Opening
0:14 Talking
1:01 Audio demos w/ talking intros

Kick Drum - Future Retro Transient+
Oscillators - Pittsburgh Synth Box + Rozendall CEM3340
Envelope Contours - 2xADSR dual envelope
Ring Mod - Mutable Warps
LFO - Batumi
MIDI Sequence - Beatstep Pro

Sunday, May 5, 2019

SH2-VCF Eurorack Filter Module Demo #3


Today I demo my SH2-VCF with more basslines, melodic leads, and a few arpeggios.
I'll keep the talking to a minimum, but explain how I'm setting up the sounds in general.
Audio recorded direct to Tascam DR-05.
I've kept the Timefactor Delay and Big Sky Reverb to a bare minimum.
But you'll hear them from time to time.

0:00 Opening
0:25 Talking
1:55 Audio demos

Oscillators - Pittsburgh Synth Box + Synthesis Technology E352
Envelope Contours - 2xADSR dual envelope
VCA - 2xVCA
MIDI Controller - M-Audio Venom

Saturday, May 4, 2019

Behringer VC340 Vocoder USER REVIEW Synthesizer


Today I am giving a user review of the new Behringer VC340.
The VC340 is billed as a complete reproduction of the Roland VP-330 all-analog circuitry.
I have some experience having owned an original VP-330 MK1.
And previously reviewed the Roland Boutique VP-03 which had an Achilles heel IMHO.
How does the VC340 measure up?

0:00 What is the Vocoder VC340
1:07 Build Quality
2:50 Sound & Features
9:10 Summary of Final Thoughts

Recorded direct to Tascam DR-05.
No other effects nor processing of any kind.

Tuesday, April 30, 2019

Roland Juno-106 w/ Gravitational Slingshot Chips Overview + Demo


Today I got a special package from Syntaur, the USA distributor of Analogue Renaissance products. It's a set of six 80017A-GS VCF/VCA replacement upgrade chips for the Roland Juno-106 synthesizer. What's involved to install them? How do they sound? I'll demonstrate - but you be the judge!

0:00 Talking
- What are the Gravitational Slingshots?
- What I did to prepare for installation.
- A word on testing/calibration: it's absolutely required
- A minor caveat about my particular synth.
4:17 Audio Demos
- Listen to this w/ some nice headphones.

Audio recorded direct to Tascam DR-05
No additional effects.

Tuesday, April 23, 2019

Roland Juno-106 + Eurorack DEMO [Tesla Coil]


The Juno-106 has landed once again in the studio. I put together a little sequence on the BSP. And a warm saturation bassline in Eurorack.

Juno-106 | Timefactor | Big Sky: Arpeggio and swells
2xADSR | 4023 VCF (self resonance): Kick
Synth Box | JP6-VCF | 2xVCA | 106 Chorus module: bass line
Transistor-82 | Spring Tank Reverb | EMW VC Pan: Percussion
Modulations/Triggers: Batumi, Varigate4

Recorded live in 1 shot to Tascam DR-05
Some post processing in Cubase 7.

Monday, April 8, 2019

Announcing 4023 VCF - an ARP Odyssey MK-I Filter Eurorack Adaptation

Here it is - the mystery module presented yesterday at the Dallas Synth Party.

The 4023 VCF is a no-compromises Eurorack filter adaptation of the MKI ARP Odyssey synthesizers that boasted the colorful 4023 module. Slim. 8HP. Elegant beauty. Don’t be fooled by this early 2-pole 70s design, it retains bass power at higher resonance very well, and can self-oscillate with a robust sine wave when you top out the Resonance.

This 4023 VCF adaptation as close to the original as possible including Rochester re-issue CA3080 OTAs struck from the Intersil masks, matched discrete TO-92 transistors, 2N5459 FETs, a temperature compensation resistor for frequency stability, and six 20mm Alpha slide potentiometers inspired by look of the original. Per usual, when the input sliders are above 75% it will overdrive the filter input for some lovely saturation. 4023 VCF has the classic ARP vibe you’re seeking in spades.

Tuesday, March 19, 2019

Transistor-82 Lo-Fi Analog Percussion Synthesizer Overview Demo #1


Today I am proud to introduce my Transistor-82:
a low tech analog percussion synthesizer Eurorack module.
It's been in the works over a year.
Circuit testing has been well...quite addictive!
First I explain the concept of Transistor-82 and how it came about.
Then take a quick tour of the front panel features/controls.
And close out with some audio demos.

Timestamps
0:00 Opening Demo
0:10 Intro, Development, and Lo-Fi Drum Brains
1:22 Opening Demo Continued
1:28 A Quick Tour of Transistor-82!
3:15 Audio Demos

Trigger shots coming from Varigate4.
CV modulations from S/H and Batumi LFOs.
Audio recorded direct to Tascam DR-05, no added effects.
Transistor-82 is now available in my Reverb Store.

Saturday, March 16, 2019

Tuesday, March 12, 2019

Yamaha TX81Z Forever [Bank 2 w/ FX, Demo #5]

Selected patches from Bank 2 for the TX81Z FM Synthesizer.
Deeper into the dreamy, dark soundtrack territory.
This time using Big Sky reverb and Timefactor Delay.

Recorded direct to Tascam DR-05.
Get the free patches on my download page

Wednesday, March 6, 2019

Announcing the Transistor-82 Lo-Fi Analog Percussion Module

Thump, hiss, whack, booooom. Transistor-82 is a highly tweakable, retro percussion synthesizer in 14HP Eurorack format. This time around the Transistor-82 is different circuitry than its predecessor. But still has the same vintage charm + adds a ton of features and input CV control over many parameters. I have found this single voice, with this extent of control, can sound like 4 or 5 voices.
The Transistor-82 combines an oscillator with a noise source, along with an optional click transient. The noise source comprises two types: hat and snare (more filtered). With extensive control over decay, pitch, and the Oscillator/Noise Mix – you’ll never run out of old school percussion action.

FEATURES:
Sensitivity Trimmer – controls input trigger response
Decay Knob – controls overall decay
Decay Type Switch – Choose Normal/CV or Short. In Normal position, incoming CV can toggle Norm/Short. Approx 3V is the breakpoint of the toggle.
Oscillator Decay Knob – adds decay time to the Oscillator
Noise Type Switch – Choose Hat/CV or Snare noise types. In Hat position, incoming CV can toggle Hat/Snare. Approx 3V is the breakpoint of the toggle.
Pitch Knob – Initial frequency of the Oscillator.
Pitch CV Jack/Trimmer – control voltage for Oscillator Pitch
Bend Knob – The Decay envelope can affect Oscillator Pitch. 12-o’clock has no effect. CW from 12-o’clock adds to the initial pitch, CCW from 12-o’clock subtracts from initial pitch.
Click Switch – additional attack transient
Mix Knob – controls balance between noise and oscillator
Mix CV Jack/Trimmer – control voltage for Mix

Available mid-march. Be sure to check out my other cool modules available in my Reverb store.
More details on Modular Grid.

Tuesday, March 5, 2019

Feedback 106 Chorus Demo DIY SMD Version X-Vive Eurorack


Here it is. My fully assembled 106 Chorus by Feedback electronics.
I am not affiliated w/ Feedback or this project.
Just here to give a demo.
And to give some 'feedback' from my build of the surface mount version.

How difficult is the SMD version to build from a bare circuit board?
What are some pitfalls on this build?
How does it sound with the re-issue X-Vive chips?

0:00 Opening - Demo w/ Pittsburgh Synth Box PWM
0:30 Talking - MN3009 BBD Chips and X-Vive Re-issues
1:17 Demo w/ M-Audio Venom Polysynth Sawtooth Patch
1:34 More Talking - Building the SMD version
Demos...
2:57 Pittsburgh Synthesizer Box - Square, Saw, Tri
4:24 Synthesis Technology E352 - Wavetable
5:10 Future Retro Transient
5:34 Arturia Drumbrute Impact
6:34 Mutable Instruments Rings
7:50 Venom Polysynth "Super Juvee" Patch

Recorded direct to Tascam DR-05.
No other effects.

Tuesday, February 26, 2019

Yamaha TX81Z FM Synthesizer Patches Bank 2 [Demo #4] (no FX)


Some new selected patches on the TX81Z FM Synthesizer.
Dark soundscape, dreamy, indie synthwave stuff.
This time without the Big Sky Reverb.
Using a single TX81Z unit.
Raw, naked, mono, FM synthesis goodness.

Timestamp
0:00 cold opening
0:10 Bangzwap!, noise stab
0:22 Dream4Days, breathy pad
0:46 Vaporware, choral pad
1:11 Vinyl Tone, bell tone + vinyl crackle static noise
1:30 ChorusSyn, swirly synth
1:45 Warm Poly, big ol' fat poly
2:11 Poles, smooth metalic tones
2:32 Harmonix, glitchy pad + EP
2:47 $ummer Cola, dreamy pad
3:03 Retrofit, 80s synth
3:36 Love Scene, soundtrack
4:06 Icewave, chilly brooding soundscape
4:40 Ruination, dark soundtrack

Recorded direct to Tascam DR-05.
No other effects nor processing of any kind.

Get the free patch download.
Check out the sidebar >>>
Look for "download links" :D

Tuesday, February 19, 2019

Transistor-82 Lo-Fi Analog Percussion Synthesizer Test (in progress)


You may remember my discontinued Transistor-80,
it was a retro analog percussion Eurorack module.
Simple, quirky, fun. But it just begged for more.
I've been working on an advanced version, today I am giving a sneak preview.
I'm calling it the Transistor-82.
It's been a long time coming, testing sessions have been well...
...quite addictive!

The Transistor-82 will have all different circuitry compared to the predecessor.
But retains that special early 80s Lo-Fi Synsonics / Cynare / Drumfire vibe.
Along with many proper drum synthesis controls.
And welcome additions including CV input control over many parameters.
More will be announced soon as progress and design concludes.

WARNING - loud analog percussion chirps bleeps chaos, watch your levels!
Trigger shots coming from Varigate4.
CV modulations from S/H and Batumi LFOs.
Audio recorded direct to Tascam DR-05, no effects. None.

Check out my Eurorack modules currently available in my Reverb store.

Tuesday, February 12, 2019

Cascading Two Filters Tips/Tricks Delta VCF Eurorack Synth [Demo #4]


Today we've got a good one.
I'm going to show you some fun to be had running two filters in series and parallel.
You can do these things with any filters w/ lowpass and bandpass.
This time using two of my Delta VCF modules.

0:00 Opening
0:38 Cascading Filters (2 Filters in Series)
4:20 Parallel Filters

The Delta VCF is an adaptation of the Korg Delta/Poly-61 filter.
Per usual, my sound source will be the Pittsburgh Synthesizer Box.
LFOs are coming from Batumi.

Audio recorded direct to Tascam DR-05.
Some normalization, otherwise no effects.

Be sure to check out the Delta VCF and my other cool modules available in my Reverb store.

Tuesday, February 5, 2019

The Wild Side of the Delta VCF 8HP Eurorack Synth Demo #3


This is my Delta VCF 8HP analog filter module.
It's an adaptation of the Korg Delta/Poly-61 filter.
The Delta VCF 8HP is exactly the same circuit as my previous versions.
Today I'm patching into the wilder side of this filter.
I bumped the resonance trimpot a bit for this one.
So be warned, there's a bit of wonderful resonant squaling ahead.
There's a variety of sound sources and CV modulations being fed in.

Arturia Drumbrute Impact, Pittsburgh Synthesizer Box, Synthesis Technology E352 Cloud Terrarium, CEM3340 VCO, Batumi, 2xVCA, 2xADSR, Basimilus Iteritas Alter, Varigate4, Temps Utile.

Audio recorded direct to Tascam DR-05, no effects.

Be sure to check out the Delta VCF and my other cool modules available in my Reverb store.

Thursday, January 31, 2019

101-VCF Red + Delta VCF 8HP Eurorack Modules

I am proud to introduce two Eurorack modules. The first is my 101-VCF now available in Red panel, and it looks as stunning as it sounds. And the other...the Delta VCF is back! Now in 8HP, draped in a space-age white aluminum panel.
Available exclusively in my Reverb Store.

Tuesday, January 29, 2019

2xVCA Dual VCA Eurorack Synth Tips/Tricks Demo #2


Today I'm looking at some tips/tricks using a dual VCA.
First I'll briefly go over what is a VCA,
then the features of my dual VCA module.
And lastly, show you some cool things you can do with VCAs.

0:00 Intro
0:16 What is a Voltage Controlled Amplifier?
N:48 A Quick Tour of the 2xVCA
2:21 Volume Knob
2:39 Envelope Amp
3:09 For Percussion Sounds
3:33 Amplitude Key Tracking
4:23 Ducking (sidechain style)
5:22 Audio Amplitude Modulation
6:07 Tremolo
7:02 Gated LFO
7:37 Wave-mixing

Be sure to check out the 2xVCA and my other cool modules available in my Reverb store.

Wednesday, January 23, 2019

Update from the Studio/Lab January 2019

January is normally D-E-D....dead. So slow. Not this year! So much happening: modules are getting sold out, a couple of great modules getting makeovers, and recently released a new and awesome module - but totally slipped under your radar. Shame on you, starting with that one then...

If you haven't seen it yet, be sure to check out my 6HP 2xVCA dual VCA in my Reverb store. It uses BA6110 chips just like those used in my amazing SH2-VCF filter. So many fun tricks to do w/ that one - I'll have to make a video of those things soon so keep an eye out for that one.

The Tonus VCF is sold out at the moment, as it very well should be - it's the MK1 infringement filter virtually plucked from an ARP 2600. I should have more of those ready to go very soon, just been a little tricky to keep up with the demand.

Lastly. TWO awesome things are getting a killer makeover and should be hitting the road in a week or two. The first is my 101-VCF coming soon in a RED Panel. It looks every bit as tough as the original synth. The other is my 8HP Delta VCF coming in a space-age White panel. Not to worry, I'm keeping those funky green LED sliders for extra vibe.

Tuesday, January 15, 2019

Introducing My 2xVCA 6HP Eurorack Dual VCA Module


Today I demonstrate my 2xVCA Eurorack module, an analog dual voltage controlled amplifier. Channel 1 is processing modulated noise coming from the E352. Channel 2 is handling an arpeggio from the CEM3340 VCO. My 2xADSR dual envelope is sending CVs to the VCA. I've added a kick from Future Retro Transient, and bass from DNA/101-VCF.

Recorded direct to a Tascam DR-05, some Timefactor delay used.

Specs and details are available at Modular Grid.
Be sure to check out the 2xVCA and my other cool modules available in my Reverb store.

Tuesday, January 8, 2019

Alesis Ineko FX Pedal Demo w/ A Synthesizer #11 [unboxing?]

This is the fabled Alesis Ineko effects pedal. Hasn't been out of the box in a while, time to unleash the Kraken. It's like the culmination of all the algorithms that appeared in Alesis modfx effects pedal series. It doesn't look like much, but it is very tweakable and has a few surprises. Like a lo-fi playground for happy accidents. Today I want to share w/ you what it sounds like on synthesizers, drum machines and stuff like that.

Monday, January 7, 2019

Announcing 2xVCA Dual Voltage Controlled Amplifier 6HP

Hello 2019. Hope everyone had a good holiday. I've already been hard at work to bring you my first module of the New Year, the 2xVCA. It's a dual envelope based on BA6110 chips, and the test circuit is sounding pretty good. Should be ready to go mid-January. More details can be found at Modular Grid.