Author: Sacha Ketterlin

Befaco

Befaco

Manu from Befaco introduced three new modules: Burst, Kickall & Muxlicer.

Burst is a little pingable trigger burst generator –  and can be triggered from any trigger source making them fit to your tempo in a cycling proportion . It also can divide or multiply triggers and  can be linear or in a synced nonlinear mode so that you can have  more  or less trigger over the time range – which gives you a kind of creative random mode including triplets quintuplets and so on – and creates true  polyrhythms in your modular synth. The module should come very soon and will cost 195 €.

Befaco_2

A 6hp analog drumvoice will come later this summer – called Kickall. It will feature two envelopes for decay and pitch and two vca‘s for volume und accent. Furthermore the waveform can be morphed from sine to square for nice wave-shaping effects and sounds really nice and fat. A price is not clear yet. More drum modules will follow .

Befaco_3

Last but not least the multifunctional eight stage Muxlicer which can easily generate complex sequences – and also switch, slice and mangle with your CV / Gate audio sources. An absolute fun tool -acts like a bidirectional analog switch and eight step sequencer. It delivers CV adressing and advanced tempo features like independent clock  divider/multiplier and tap tempo, one shot , VC Gate multiplication and so on –  all of that in just 16 hp without beeing to tiny and its chainable too. It will be out in june for 240€.

Cwejman

Cwejman

In a long hot corridor on the second floor between speaker brands, magazines and music schools, the Cwejman booth was to be found. 6 rows of 84TE analogue gorgeousness causing salivary flow to the so called „Cwejman Junkies“. Resignated, heartbroken looks where exchanged among many well dressed visitors, presumably due to the rarity of all Cwejman items. Especially the Cwejman MBC-3, Wowa´s newest creation, a CV controlable mono multiband compressor gives reason to feel pain if one is not able to achieve ownership in time. Not even a well filled bank account can help easing the heartship on this one……a rare situation in our capitalistic world.

Cwejman_2

 

Wowa excused himself but entrusted Franz and Phil to represent the brand. They patched gloriously and tried to help with updates regarding delivery dates. The updates so far: Modules are available again with grey front panels. The S1 mk3 will most likely arrive some day but needs an official announcement.

Cwejman_3

The MBC-3 is a super amazing 3 band compressor with insane patching potential. To learn more about it, please take a look at Wowa´s presentation one month ago at Schneidersladen. Wowa is in great shape, very motivated to develop new great modules and is very relaxed.

 

 

 

Black Corporation

Black Corporation

Next to the well known CS80 clone „Deckard´s Dream“, the Black Corporation had their newest synth Tier on display. The RSF Polykobol clone „Kijimi“. Stuffed with 8 voices, 2 CEM3340 based VCOs per voice and SSM2040 filter clones. Loopable envelopes, which have 4 different zoom levels meet 2 LFOs. All in all great stuff that sets itself apart from some low priced clones that flood the market by  diving deep into the material, using good custom components and implementing additional cool features.

Deckardsdream_2

The manufacturer was happy that a solution for a lost banner was found quickly by the main men René and Jan.

Mordax

Mordax

Right before entering hostile territory (the oxigen free catacombs of suffering) on the 1st floor we encountered Mordax’s booth and had a quick chat with Brandon.

Mordax_1

Mordax is developing a very promising new granular processor: the GXN. It is able to record and process audio in real time. The format is .wav and it provides full CV control over all parameters. The final bit depth is yet undecided but 32bit depth and very high sample rates are possible. The ad/da conversion means business so we can all look forward to a top level player on this field. Once released, there will not be much inbetween you, the world of oily texture and morphing shazaaam. The author was also very impressed by Brandon´s slick haircut and thinks about improving his own cutting edge. Compliments.

WMD

WMD

At the Superbooth 2018, WMD presents a new trigger sequencer and various digital drum modules.

WMD_3

The prototype of the Advanced Trigger Sequencer features 16 Tracks and memory for saving sequences. Arrange parts and songs, and save it all to memory! The module looks very promising and very hands-on.

WMD_2

WMD has integrated a large number of micro-samples, i.e. ultra-short samples, into their percussion synthesizer Fracture. It was supposed to become a module that can only reproduce clap sounds, but in the end the sound repertoire was much larger than expected. According to the manufacturer, various sample templates such as claps, table tennis balls or the sound of an opening beer bottle are used. WMD Fracture then plays excerpts of these samples simultaneously and the different percussion sounds are created.

Another drum module is the Chimera which was developed to emulate the sound of a tambourine and shakers.

WMD also presented a few other modules like the Octavus and a new digital VCA.

WMD_4

 

Macbeth

Macbeth

Ken Macbeth’s Elements is one of the most inspiring synthesizers currently available. No matter how hard you detune its oscillators, the results are always musical. The instrument’s basic character comes across creamy and fat at the same time. Thanks to a custom-made metal touch keyboard, the playability is one of a kind. With the Elements EL-2, Ken Macbeth presents a new version of his masterpiece at Superbooth 2018. At first sight, the synthesizer hasn’t changed much. – Besides the color, of course. Sound is generated by three VCOs with varying waveform selection and a white / pink noise source. External signals can be fed to the instrument via an audio input. For processing sounds, the Elements offers a ring modulator and a low-pass filter / resonator with variable edge steepness (-6 dB to -30 dB per octave). – Plus a VCA, of course. Furthermore, the instrument features a tape delay emulation and a spring reverb. In terms of modulators, there are two ADSR envelopes with a loop function and an opulently equipped LFO. The latter can be used as a fourth oscillator as well. The other way round, it is possible to decouple the third VCO from the audio path and use it as a modulator. For PWM sounds, you’ll find a separate, rather simple LFO. Instead of pitch and mod wheels, there are two extremely large, very handy knobs.

So, what is new about the EL-2 version? – Well, there is no MIDI interface anymore. This isn’t a big deal, as the implementation wasn’t that great anyways. No velocity, no aftertouch… You get the idea. – But what about the improvements? Did the old Scotsman f*ck us over? – He didn’t, of course. MIDI was dropped as an effort to implement new features. First of all, there are now separate enhance functions for the first and second VCO. In addition, you can now synchronize the third to the second VCO and / or the second to the first VCO. – The first version of the Elements only offered one synchronization option. Furthermore, a new, way more atmospheric spring reverb has been built-in. On top of that, the three VCOs now have separate outputs at the rear of the unit. And by the way: You still can control the synthesizer externally via CV and gate inputs. Modulations via external control voltages sources are possible as well.

Macbeth_Elements2

But that’s not all. The overall sound of the EL-2 may sound a little more “vintage” to you. – Why, you ask? Well, because Ken now uses legendary RCA semiconductors from the 1970’s, including ICs type CA3046, CA3083, LM1458 (metal can) and CA3080E.

A final thought: The Elements EL-2 is all discrete Through Hole parts. Mr. Macbeth is not a big fan of SMD components.

Doepfer

Doepfer

At Superbooth 2018, Dieter Doepfer introduced new “quad” modules made for polyphonic use.

Doepfer_3

The A-190-5 is a new polyphonic MIDI/USB-CV/Gate interface. For each voice a pitch control voltage (1V/octave standard to control VCOs), a gate output (to control envelope generators) and two additional control voltages (CV2, CV3) are available. The two additional CV outputs can be controlled by Midi velocity, volume, modulation, pitch bend, after touch or free assignable Midi controllers.

Doepfer_2

A-111-4 Quad VCO contains four precision VCOs and has individual controls, inputs and outputs for each VCO available as well as a common control and output unit. After all the A-111-4 is very similar to four A-111-3 without LFO mode but built in output mixers for the three waveforms, and a master unit for all four VCOs.

A-105-4 is Doepfer’s first polyphonic filter and contains four identical 24dB Lowpass filters (SSM2044 type). It has available common manual controls and CV inputs with attenuators for these parameters.

A-132-8 is an octal VCA and primarily planned for polyphonic applications. The module contains four VCA pairs. Each pair includes two daisy-chained VCAs. One VCA has a linear control scale, for the second VCA linear or exponential control scale can be chosen by means of jumpers. We decided to provide two VCAs for each voice because usually one VCA is required for loudness envelope and a second one for velocity (or other functions like individual voltage-controlled loudness of each voice, amplitude modulation and so on).

A-141-4 is a quad voltage controlled Envelope generator and is primarily planned for polyphonic applications. The module contains four ADSR type voltage controlled envelope generators with common manual controls and CV inputs with polarizers for the all parameters Attack (A), Decay (D), Sustain (S) and Release (R). Each of the four envelope generators has available a gate input, a control LED and an envelope output.

Doepfer also introduced a few other modules with interesting features.

A-123-2 is a voltage controlled highpass filter with four filter outputs (6, 12, 18 and 24dB slope). It also features voltage control of the resonance.

Module A-140-2 contains two ADSR type envelope generators behind a front panel with 8 HP only.Module A-142-2 contains two envelope controlled VCAs behind a front panel with 8 HP only. Each of the two sub-units is the combination of a simple AD/ADSR/AR envelope generator and a VCA. The type of envelope can be selected by means of a toggle switch.

A-157-4 is an expansion for the A-157 Trigger Sequencer and adds a MIDI/USB/Control-Outputs Option.

Erica Synths

Erica Synths

Girts presents his idea of a modular drum computer at Superbooth 2018. – A little spoiler: it is fantastic!

Erica_2

In detail, the case shown contains the following new modules:

  • Bass Drum: An extensively equipped, analog Kick module with pitch control, an AD envelope for modulating the tuning and a drive circuit. The module’s sound is huge!
  • Snare: A hart-hitting circuit with several controls for shaping the body and rattling noise of sounds.
  • Toms: Three drums in one module. Low tom, mid tom and high tom can be independently tuned plus there is a decay parameter per drum.
  • Clap: The smallest of Erica’s analog drum modules. It has a very dense sound.
  • Hi-Hats: This module uses seven oscillators and a metallic noise source to generate sounds. Additionally, a digital synthesis system is implemented. – Very versatile.
  • Sample Drum: An audio player based on the technology of the Pico drums module, but with lots of additional controls and CV inputs. Thanks to new DA convertors, its sound is very clean and powerful.
  • Bassline: A bass synthesizer with two oscillators, which can be detuned. The audio generators are followed by a beefy low-pass filter and a VCA.
  • Mixer and Mixer lite: Two analog mixers with typical functionality plus booming drum compression.
  • Stereo Mixer: 4-channel mixer, which can also be used as an output interface.
  • Dual FX: This module is composed of two digital multi-effects with eight algorithms per channel. It is based on the Spin chip.
  • Dual Drive: Saturation / distortion module with full-bodied sound. The drive stages can be used in serial or in parallel.

For playing the modular system, a Drum Sequencer was used. – The last year’s Superbooth highlight from Erica Synths. It’ll be available at SchneidersLaden next week! (Tuna the cat is doing the final quality control as you read this lines.)

The other drum modules will become available over the next months. As usual with Erica Synths, the prices will be very fair.

Tiptop Audio

Tiptop Audio

After an absolutly dope little live set from Konstantin Gervis  who presents „mostly loud and tasty„ the tiptop audio modules – we got an introduction into Tiptops „new hot stuff“.

tiptop_2

First of all the new beige version of the Z Dsp –  24 Bit VC Digital Signal Processor. While the function and the panel layout stays the same – like in the former silver version, the audio hardware was improved a lot and the quality of the components got higher  –  the headroom increased  and can take way stronger signals without clipping to fast –while the analog feedback path is 10 db less and makes it easier to use it without beeing scared of destroying your sound, and older phasing problems belong to the past as well . The module is also much slimmer and lighter as well.

It comes with two cards now– Dragonfly version 2 and Halls of Valhalla – so you ve got a topnotch echo-delay from scratch – and more cards besides the existing one are planed as well  – of course the old ones are still useable in the new version .

The price should be 50€ less than the first version (around 450 €) and it will be out mid june.

tiptop_3

Another new beige family member will be the z4000 coming with a new panel and smoother news. It will be available in june at SchneiderLaden.

A new sample card for the ONE comes with samples from Datachi, a famous sound designer.

And also two prototypes can be seen: a steiner parker filter – called Forbidden Planet and a morphable VCA with direct output level – also very nice for distorting the sound on grungy level, but both are work in progress and will take a bit time to get in production.

Intellijel

Intellijel

At Superbooth18, Wes and Danjel from Intellijel introduced some additions to their 1U product line. They expanded it with a new module called System Link. It is similar to the doepfer A-180-9 Multicore, to which it is compatible – a balanced link of up to eight audio and cv connections through ethernet cable.

Intellijel_5

Another addition is a 1U four track gate sequencer. Each track has following options: gate length, clock division, swing and …sequence length!

Intellijel_4
Now for „big“ news: Intellijel showed the new versions of the Planar and the Rubicon, which were announced already a few months ago.

Intellijel_1

The most obvious new feature of the Planar2, is the addition of a motion recorder for the joystick. It can be clocked and scrubbed. A gate track can be recorded separately. Under the hood, the analog VCA circuitry has been reworked. Don’t forget that this module is not only a CV Joystick, but also a mixing device, which can be used for vector synthesis, blending the waveforms of one or more oscillators.

Intellijel_6

 

The Rubicon has been totally reworked from its core to improve the tracking. It features three new inputs: Warp, X and Squish, which is a wavefolder circuit. Self-pachting to one of these inputs shows already rewarding sonic results. With the Rubicon2 you will be able to create absolutely clear and „modern“ sounds with unheard timbral shifts.

Planar2 and Rubicon2 will be available soon at SchneidersLaden!

 

Random Source

Random Source

The guys from Random Source show their new TKB at Superbooth 2018, a redesign of Serge’s classic touch keyboard and sequencer combination.

RandomSource_2

Just like its predecessor, the machine features four tracks with 16 steps each. They can be used separately (vertically) and jointly (horizontally). The touch sensitive keys are pressure sensitive. – Kind of an aftertouch control. The feel is awesome! Serge fans will soon discover that Random Source added a new glide feature for the first track. It is controlled by the second channel. The touch keyboard can be decoupled from the sequencer, meaning both sections are usable independently. Thanks to key priority, it is of no harm to press several keys at one time. – Oh, there is a vertical reset as well! We’ll tell you more about all the TKB’s features as soon as the first units arrive at SchneidersLaden.

RandomSource_1

Random Source also presents an eight-step sequencer module at Superbooth 2018. Its concept is pretty much straight forward. The original design, created by Serge in the 70’s, was updated with an All Gate output. One special feature: You can jump to steps using trigger signals or buttons.

RandomSource_4

By the way: Random Source told us that the first batch of Variable Q VCFs and Resonant Equalizers will be shipped to us soon.

RandomSource_3

Make Noise – Morphagene

Make Noise

Morphagene Firmware Update

Make Noise is the modular synthesizer company by Tony Rolando. On one hand Make Noise is very succesfull in creating analog devices that are often inspired by classic westcoast modular synthesizer circuits by Buchla and Serge. On the other hand they develop cutting edge digital oscillators and sound sound processing devices. Their most recent module took a long time to develop and is more than just being the successor of their musique concrete inspired sampling device Phonogene. The Morphagene is rather a complete make over of the phonogene and expands the functionality by stereo ins and outs, higher sampling rate and longer recordings are possible to begin with. Moreover the Morphagene allows you to dive in to the world of Microsound i.e. granular synthesis. The device is available since last year and has experienced a lot of attention in the modular world. On this years Sooper Booth Walker Farrell gave an very inspiring insight in the feature set of the just announced firmware update. This not only good news for those who have the Morphagene already but it is also a good point to look into for those who are interested (without being to overwhelming in a technical sense). Let‘s jump right in and see what‘s new.

We are talking about a total of nine new features in the new firmware. I will conclude the features briefly and highly recommend to read the updated Morphagene manual to get more familiar with the features in detail. Note that all original behaviors are still accessible. The update gives you more options instead of overwriting thr original behavior.

Vari-Speed option

You can now have three different options how the varispeed operates.

– The original behavior (bidirectional with smooth motion)

– New bidirectional v/oct behavior. This makes it possible to the Vari-Speed to track 1 volt per octave

– Single direction option offers significantly more precision on the control

Input option

– You can now make the Morphagene record only what is at the input and ignore the output regardless of the SOS settings

– Output Buffer replacement makes a siginificant change to the Time Lag Accumulation. Instead of accumulating it is now possible to use the Morphagene as a single-repeat microsound delay.

Phase/Position Modulation option

– The right input can be used to phase modulatethe sound coming out of the Morphagene

Organize option

– Organize and Shift can be used immediately regardless of the position of the playback head

Gene Smooth option

– A second option to the original allows a more pronounced windowing of Genes. In effect this results in slight fading in/out between Genes at low Gene Size settings. With smaller Genes it results in a more liquid microsound texture.

Record option

– With this option you can record into a new Splice with every press/release of the RECORD button

Play option

– One of the new options is a Momentary Play input. This will cause the Morphagene to start playing immediately upon gate high, and stop immediately on gate low.

– The other new option is a Trigger Loop Mode in which the Morphagene will continue playing at all times.

Clock Control option

– Option one is to make Clock input Shift Genes regardless of Morph setting.

– Option two makes Clock input dive Time Stretch regardless of Morph setting.

CV Output option

– Instead of outputting the the followed envelope it is possible to make the CV Out to output a Ramp wave that is timed to the current Gene Size.

Animal Factory Amplification

Animal Factory Amplification

Aditya Nandwana from Bombay, India, presents a new synth: the Ahimsa.

Ahimsa means “without violence” in Sanskrit. This complete synth voice features two oscillators, a six step sequencer, an envelope generator, LFO and headphone output.

The synth is still in the prototype stage but looks very promising!

Another big news is a new version of the Pit Viper with a new faceplate, cleaner sound and two new switches.

The Pit Viper is a solid-state overdrive derived from the Flail Channel of the Ozymandias pedal. With a bite that is poisonous and mesmerizing, it goes from a gritty clean boost to a raw, full-fledged amp-on-full-tilt roar.

Animal Factory_1

ALM Busy Circuits

ALM Busy Circuits

Big hello from Mr Matthew Allum at Superbooth18 . The man behind  ALM Busy Circuits introduces four new modules which all should come up this year.

First module coming out very soon this spring – it will be a little 2 HP headphone output called HPO with minijack out. The price should be very affordable.

The other three modules are still prototypes and kind of work in progress.

The second one is a 6 HP Digital VCO called M-DCO including eight wavetypes with diffrent shapes. It features a sub out and a post wave modulation. The pulse output is inspired by the juno synth pulse modulation and sounds very musical, from nasal to brachial in a very tasty way.

Price should be moderate as well and the module should come out this summer.

The third one is the Quaid Megaslope.

Mdco Quaid HPO

A multistage envelope generator with five stages  – which can also be used as Lfo and Step sequenzer similar to the Pipslope .

The Level fader can be also used for pitch control and slope – could be used to control the time also cv controlable  – In Loop Mode the  sustain control change the slope from linear to logaritmics. Another update planed will be a dc retrigger .

It will probably be available in around three months – the price is still unclear.

The last one will be a sampler with eight input trigger and it can hold 100 Banks with eight sounds each.

The name is still unclear – right now the prototyp is questionmarked ???????? – cool idea btw.

alm sampler vco

The output will be mixed in pairs 1-2 / 3-4 / 5-6 /7-8 or a mix output and the samples can be loaded with a normal usb stick or directly record and asign it in the Audio In section.

Of course, it will be possible to pitch & stretch the samples via cv with the assign inputs and choosing the sample over the little screen –the last three can be also pitched directly on the surface.

Also a individual working reverse function is available and start end end will be cv controlable as well and the rate function will change the rate  from 44  to 22 or 11 Hz while quality can be changed from 1 to 16 bit to go from totally destruction to high fidelity – further updates like a delay function are planed but have not been included yet.

It should come out at the end of summer and will be under 500€.

 

Birdkids

Birdkids

Birdkids introduces a new modulation source with endless possibilities: Crow Intelligence.

CrowIntelligence_ConceptRendering2-1024x764

Thanks to a connection via ethernet, you can manage the functions of the modules directly from a browser on the device of your choice (PC/MAC, iOS, Android …) and then save the patch for later recall. Any patch can be recalled standalone on the device.

Birdkids_1

Thanks to this system, you can easily reprogram the Crow Intelligence for your needs. It can work as a sequencer, LFO, function generator, random trigger source or Sample and Hold. It can create every modulation you imagine, thanks to its flexible modular patch editor. It can adapt to your workflow and let you control your modular system with ease.

At the core of the hardware is a powerful ARM processor, which will never run out of processing power!

The module features two USB connections, four trigger inputs, four trigger outputs and four CV outputs.

Birdkids_2

Another new module from Birdkids is the Crow XO, an expander for the Crow Intelligence. They are connected through ethernet cable. It gives you four additional trigger and four CV outputs.

 

Eventide

Eventide

The EuroDLL is based on classic Eventide delay effects, which were first introduced in the 1970’s. True to its ancestors, the module combines a digital echo processor with analog circuits. The saturation clipping stage at the input, a low-pass filter, the feedback channel, an insert loop and a drive circuit (+20 dB) are all analog. Nearly every parameter is voltage controllable.

Eventide_2

The resolution of the module’s digital building block is 24 Bit. Its sampling rate can be set to values ranging from 12 kHz to 192 kHz. Thus, you can create echo effects with a classic to modern character. Depending on the sample rate chosen, the maximum delay time varies. While being set to 12 kHz, values ranging from 0.11 milliseconds to 160 seconds are possible. Therefore, the EuroDLL can be used to create long, atmospheric delays as well as short, metallic sounding comb filter and Flanger effects. With a sampling rate of 192 kHz, the maximum delay time is ten seconds. The basic character is always musical. – Just like the ancestors, that can still be found in many professional studios. With the drive circuit, it is possible introduce some crunchy madness. You can synchronize the EuroDLL via its clock input and output. Additionally, there is a tap tempo function. You need a special effect? – Then try out the reverse and infinite repeat options.

 

CHRT

CHRT

The CHRT synthesizer does not just feature a fully analog signal path, but is composed completely of tube stages. Oscillator, drive circuit, filter / resonator and VCA all come equipped with the warm, glowing components. The instrument’s basic character is creamy and somewhat magical. Some potentiometers affect way more than just one parameter respectively character trait. You can generate sounds reminiscent of woodwind, sax and trumpet sounds. The attack phase can be shaped very nicely. The CHRT synthesizer was designed to be played with a wind controller. Using an alternate firmware, it is also possible to control it via a MIDI keyboard or sequencer. After a very short warm-up period, its pitch tracking works perfectly over a range of at least five octaves.

We are sure: You’ll be fascinated by this instrument.

CHRT_2

CHRT_3

Endorphines

Endorphines

This year, Endorphines introduces an amazing 30 HP modular drum synth with a very flexible sound-engine based on the Roland CR-78 CompuRhythm.

endorphines_1

Unlikely other modules from Endorphines, this one is black, thus the name: Blck_Noir. It includes 7 drum voices: bass drum, snare, tambourine, closed and open hi-hat, cymbal and metal beat. It uses hybrid sound generation: digital noise with spectrum animation, injected into analog circuits. The analog generation part is fully discrete, using inductor coils instead of op-amps, giving a raw and powerful sound. Thanks to this special design it will sound good in every setting.

Several CV inputs will let you control various parameters for lively drum sounds.

endorphines_3

On top of that, the module has an on-board effect processor with eight effects: hall, shimmer, room, plate, spring reverb types, tap and tape delay types as well as a new freezer effect with additional auxiliary input and firmware update over audio.

With this module you will be able to create drums that have character! It will fit all styles of music, from EDM to Techno.

Xirid

Xirid

The guys from Xirid show two prototypes of their first product, the MIDI sequencer XS2, at Superbooth 2018. – A world premiere. The machine will offer 64 tracks. A pattern can be up to 256 steps long. The XS2 will be packed with features. For instance, Xirid plans to implement user editable music scales, chord editing and micro timing options. Patterns can be recorded step-by-step or in real-time. Thanks to individually selectable track lengths, it will be very easy to create polyrhythms. Swing and humanize functions plus the so-called user grooves guarantee that songs composed with the XS2 won’t sound sterile. – Even though the timing seems to be very precise already. Remix and random editing options allow you to generate variations of patterns in no time. Besides notes, parameter movements will be recordable as well. A MIDI learn function helps with integrating the sequencer into your setup. Additionally, there some clever sync options are planned. Five routable MIDI outputs and two inputs, a total of eight control voltage / gate ports and a pedal port are available at the lastest prototype. Furthermore, there are USB-A and USB-B connectors for attaching controllers plus a computer to the sequencer. Last but not least, the XS2 can be used as a MIDI Looper. User assignable keyboard shortcuts, track names and colors help you operating the unit.

The XS2 will be available in fall 2018.

Analogue Systems

Analogue Systems

AS_4

The guys from Alex 4 present new versions of some classic Analogue Systems modules at Superbooth 2018.

AS_2

The circuits remain unchanged. New features include overhauled front panels and dual power connectors, making the modules compatible with cases in the Analogue Systems as well as Doepfer format. Besides the extremely beefy sounding oscillator RS-95N, a modern version of the Modulator RS-380N and the (audio) Processor RS-35N are shown. Next in line for an upgrade are the EMS-style modules, followed by other classic circuits.

AS_1

MFB

MFB

Jean Fricke and his dad Manfred present a new drum instrument at Superbooth 2018. – The Tanzbär 2. It features analog as well as digital voices. Besides drum generators, there are three sample players and a FM synthesizer voice. On top of that, there is a multi-track step sequencer with classic layout. A pattern can be up to 64 steps long. Each track can have a different length. Thus, polyrhythmic results can be easily created.

MFB_2

In detail, the Tanzbär 2 features the following instruments:

  • Two kick voices
  • Two snares
  • Three toms / congas
  • Three sample voices
  • Two crash variations
  • Closed hi-hat
  • Open hi-hat
  • Clap / Perc 1
  • Rim / Perc 2
  • Ride / Perc 3

The second generation of the Tanzbär will be available in summer 2018. The price will be 980 Euro (including 19% VAT).

In other news: MFB also shows some new modules at Superbooth 2018. – All circuits will be available soon, the price per product will be less than 100 Euro. In detail, the following modules were announced:

  • VCO / DCO – An audio generator with switchable core (analog / digital)
  • ADSR – An envelope with voltage controllable parameter and loop function
  • Visual VCA – Combines a VCA and an oscilloscope
  • 24 dB VCF SSI – A filter, based on the circuit design of Korg’s Monopoly.

ACL

ACL

ACL_1

Martin Schönauer and Stefan Lewin introduced a very impressive oscillator circuit at Superbooth 2018, the Multifunction Discrete VCO. As the name suggests, it is a fully discrete design based on a saw tooth core. The module consists of a VCO and a sub-oscillator. Both (!!!) feature outputs for sine, triangle, saw, ramp and variably wide pulse waveforms. By layering several waves, you can create extremely fat sounds. – Not exactly a surprise, as the circuit was inspired by classic Moog designs. For altering the main VCO’s pitch, there are coarse and fine tune controls. The latter is not just an average knob, but a 10-turn potentiometer. – We love the feel. Thanks to a linear detune option, pitch independent “beating” effects, as Martin calls them, can be achieved. The results are very musical and lively. On top of that, there are individual, voltage controllable PW / PWM sections with switchable carrier. Depending whether the saw, ramp or triangle shape is selected, the behavior while altering the pulse width changes.

ACL_3

As known from the Roland-based Variable Sync VCO, ACL’s Moog-style oscillator offers extensive synchronization options. In detail, you can crossfade between no sync, several degrees of soft sync and hard sync. Additionally, there is a switch to decide whether synchronization should happen on rising or falling edges. – This is important for maintaining the correct phase relation with some applications. A gate input makes it possible to restart the VCO. – Great for generating punchy basses and drums. An LFO mode allows you to use the module as a complex modulation source.

Last but not least, the FM functionality of the Multifunction Discrete VCO should be mentioned. There are linear and exponential inputs with attenuators. The linear FM can be used in an AC or DC mode.

The Multifunction Discrete VCO will become available in summer. Its price will be 860 Euro including German VAT (19%).

In other news, ACL will not only offer individual modules, cases and power supplies from now on, but a fully loaded modular system as well. It consists of the following circuits:

  • Two Variable Sync VCOs
  • Dual State Variable VCF
  • VC Panning Amplifier
  • Gate Mix
  • Oktave
  • Envelope X3
  • QLFO
  • VC Dual Delay
  • M/S Matrix
  • Audio Interface

ACL_2

For powering the system, ACL designed a high quality 4 HP module. It emits 1000 mA at +12 V and -12 V as well as 500 mA at +5 V. We admit, this data isn’t exactly mind-blowing. However, keep in mind that you don’t need to calculate any “headroom”, as known from other power supplies. For instance, you really can draw 1000 mA from the +12 V rail without ever worrying about overheating. The other specs scream high quality as well. This is why ACL decided to make the module available as an individual product as well. – We should have it in SchneidersLaden very soon. The price will be 225 Euro including German VAT (19%). The ACL modular system will also be available in a matter of weeks. Its price has yet to be determined.

Pittsburgh Modular

Pittsburgh Modular

The Electronic Sequence Designer 128 from Pittsburgh Modular is a very complex and flexible 32-step sequencer.

Electronic Sequence Designer 128

You can create up to four sequences going on simultaneously with four gate and pitch outputs. This four sequences can share the 32 faders, dividing the control panel in 2 x 16 steps or 1 x 16 + 2 x 8 to be accessed directly via the faders – which make this sequencer really hands-on! It is also possible to use the sequencer in layers of 32 steps, giving you only direct access to the last programmed sequence. This way you get 4 x 32 = 128 steps!

It features MIDI in and out, which enables you to send all four sequences to your computer or other musical gear, and receive MIDI Data for transposing sequences for example. You can apply different scales via buttons on the front panel. Furthermore there is an euclidian system integrated which will distribute the active steps through the sequence.

The sequencer offers a lot more features like swing, ratcheting and two modulation inputs.

Lifeforms Primary Oscillator

In a very compact module, Pittsburgh Modular presents a new oscillator, the Lifeforms Primary Oscillator. It has a very large spectrum of sound and interesting shaping options – with only three faders!

It features four waveforms : sine, saw, pulse and blade – a mix between pulse and sawtooth. A special sine mode called Harmonic Sine gives you a sine with more harmonic content. There is also a sort of bit crusher output called Fragments which gives rather digital type of sounds. It is controlled by the Fragments Density fader. The Timbre output comes from a wave-folder which is adjusted with the Timbre Depth fader.

This oscillator module gives you a lot of sound-sculpting options.

AJH Synth

AJH Synth

At Superbooth18, AJH Synth presents the Wave Swarm module, a dual six-stage wave animator reminiscent of Roland’s Super Saw introduced in 1997 with the JP8000.

It will take a simple sawtooth wave to six or twelve simultaneous sawtooth waves and give you very big sound out of only one oscillator. Both channels feature a Dry knob to blend the original signal with the wet signal. The volume of each of the twelve wave animator is controlled by a potentiometer so you can precisely adjust the sound.

It features two inputs, two outputs and a mix output, which gives you a mix of both channels. So for example you can feed a triangle to A, a sawtooth to B and take the sum of both channels at the mix out.

AJH_1

Another new module from AJH Synth is the V Shape. It gives you an amazing wave-shaper featuring a distortion and a wave-folder.

The shape potentiometer will make it possible to morph from a sawtooth to triangle, to a ramp waveform. Additionally there is an integrated distortion you can use independently thanks to separate inputs and outputs. It features CV over drive.

There is also an integrated wave-folder which you can turn on and off to further shape the sound. On top of that you can choose between soft and hard clipping with a switch.

With this module you will be able to twist and distort the incoming signal in many ways.

Frap Tools – Falistri

Frap Tools

This year at Superbooth18, Frap Tools presents a new movement manager. It is a function generator with lots of interesting features. The Falistri is a full analog multipurpose trajectory manager designed to generate and process voltages.

A big improvement over other function generators is the fact that you can change the shape of the envelope without changing the time – times are independent from shapes which can be different for each stage, for each generator. Thus you can really use it as an oscillator without altering the pitch when you change the shape of rise and fall.

The module can be divided in two big parts: in the upper two third of the panel take place tow specular function generators, while the lower third is composed by a dual cascaded frequency divider, a linear slew limiter and a four quadrant multiplier.

Frap Tools_Falistri

 

Both manual button and external trigger/gate input are available, and are used in three possible play modes. In the loop mode, where end of fall stage triggers the start of rise, incoming triggers are not needed, but if present reset the rise. In transient mode only the low-to-high transition of the trigger/gate signal is used to start the rise stage while the fall stage is automatically recalled at the end of rise. In sustained mode, the low-to-high transition of the trigger/gate signal is used to start the rise stage,  while the fall stage is triggered by the high-to-low transition of the trigger/gate signal. A Gate input for switching from Loop to Transient mode and vice versa is also available on the module.

Thanks to a Quadrature mode (Q) you will be able to combine both function generators, connecting various stages together.

There are two function editors : cascaded frequency dividers and a four quadrant multiplier.

Each of the frequency dividers, also known as flipflop or sub-octave processor, changes its logic state each time a low to high transition is performed. The two sections are normalled so you can achieve 1/2 and 1/4 outputs from a single input which is very handy. This works as a sub-octave generator if an audio signal is used. With a clock at the input it works as a clock divider.

Furthermore, there is a four quadrant multiplier section with an exceptional linearity and a bandwidth from DC to more than 20 kHz. This can be used as a ring modulator or as a VCA with linear CV response. Thanks to the four led matrix, you can see which of the quadrant is currently in use.

Finally, there is a linear slew limiter which can process any voltage. With independent rise and fall slew rates, you can precisely smooth any kind of voltage transition.

Steady State Fate

Steady State Fate

SSF_6

Andrew Morelli never runs out of great ideas! At Superbooth 2018, the man introduces his Stereo Dipole to us, a two-channel dual filter. – Yes, the module contains two multimode circuits with switchable high-pass, band-pass and low-pass characteristics per channel. The filters can be wired in parallel or in series, allowing you to create really complex results. Besides cutoff and resonance potentiometers, there is a Spread knob per channel. This control allows you to offset the cutoff frequency of both multimode filters contained. All parameters are voltage-controllable as well. Furthermore, 1 v / octave inputs where implemented. Drive circuits give audio material a more crunchy character. Two audio outputs per channel emit the results of filter A and B. – Or the results of both, depending on the settings chosen. Additional potentiometers and CV inputs allow you to use the module as a stereo processor. For instance, you can evenly edit and / or modulate cutoff and resonance parameters of both channels. The Stereo Dipole’s sound is clean and more or less analytical. Yet, it appears to be crunchy and very musical. – We can’t wait to have it in our store!SSF_2

Another new SSF module is the Ultra-Heterodyne, a stereo panning VCA. It features gain stages at the inputs and manually as well as voltage controllable panorama parameters. The pan law is switchable, meaning you can choose between linear and a curved behavior. On top of that, you can also create effects reminiscent of a ring modulator with the circuit.SSF_3

Andrew also shows the Autodyne at Superbooth 2018, a compressor with parallel processing and sidechain input. Thanks to its punchy character, the module appears to be great for beefing up drum sounds. Of course, visitors of Superbooth 2018 can also have a look at the modules Andrew presented at the NAMM show in January. Muton is a click-less, eight-channel analog mute stage and summing mixer. Detect-RX combines the functionality of an envelope follower, a gate extractor and a rectifier. The Zero Point Oscillator is a great-sounding Thru-Zero-VCO that generates lots of waves, has morphing capabilities, linear as well as exponential FM and it comes equipped with a sub-oscillator. The Thru-Zero application point can be shifted.

SSF_8

Last, but not least, there is the Bantam. It is an awe-inspiring synthesizer voice with two oscillators plus Mod VCO, noise generator, mixer, multi-mode filter, VCA, ADSR envelope and a function generator. In addition, a delay effect and a two-channel MIDI / CV interface are built-in. (Yes, you can create duophonic patches.) A total of 54 patch points makes the Bantam a great entry point for modular beginners. That said, we’re sure that hard-boiled synthesizer nerds will also be highly interested in this synthesizer, once they hear its powerful and precise sound.

SSF_5

All new SSF modules will be released somewhen this year. Prices are yet to be determined. However, we can tell you one thing already: Andrew’s ideas on pricing seem very reasonable.

Møffenzeff Modular

Møffenzeff Modular

Ross Fish, creative mind of Møffenzeff Modular, introduced two new instruments to us. First and foremost, there is the Stargazer. – A powerful, sometimes ear-piercing drone generator. The synthesizer features two wavetable oscillators with 90 waveforms and a detune option. Furthermore, there are two resonant low-pass filters, three wavetable LFOs, sample rate and bit reduction, amplitude modulation as well as CMOS distortion. An expression pedal input can be used to control the speed of all the LFOs at the same time. – Very nice for playing live! Hint: You can also use a photo cell wired to a TRS jack and play the synthesizer like a Theremin. – Extremely cool! Thanks to the 12 bit resolution of its wavetables, the Stargazer’s sound is much more “in your face” than other drone generators. Add some additional sample rate / bit reduction and you get crunchy, sometimes screaming results. – Perfect for people who like it rough. Its steel enclosure makes the instrument a perfect companion for hardcore gigs. All that said, it should be mentioned that the Stargazer can also generate smooth sounds. For instance, we created some very atmospheric organ-style drones at Superbooth 2018.

Møffenzeff Modular_2

The second new instrument is called Jarmageddon. It basically has one purpose: Noise! – Not soft, analog white or pink noise, but disturbing, unpredictable, bleeping, ear-crushing, digital noise. The miniature synthesizer has one voltage controllable parameter: Glitch. Feed Jarmageddon’s output to a voluminous reverb and / or a smooth sounding delay and you’ll have tons of fun! As the name suggests, Jarmageddon was designed to be housed in a jar. Of course, you can also put the miniature noise beast into lots of other housings or just play it “naked”. Jarmageddon is powered by a 9 V battery.

A small quantity of Stargazers will be available at SchneidersLaden soon. We’ll also have the Jarmageddon in stock soon. – A great gift for friends who like noise… Or for yourself.

Joranalogue

Joranalogue

Joranalogue presents a multimode filter and eight-phase oscillator at Superbooth 2018. – In one module! As the name suggests, Filter 8 features eight outputs with the following characteristics:

  • Low-pass with an edge steepness of -6 dB per octave
  • Low-pass with an edge steepness of -12 dB per octave
  • Low-pass with an edge steepness of -18 dB per octave
  • Low-pass with an edge steepness of -24 dB per octave
  • High-pass with an edge steepness of -6 dB per octave
  • Band-boost plus notch
  • Phase shift
  • Band-pass with an edge steepness of -24 dB per octave

Joranalogue_2

Instead of a cutoff knob, there are Coarse and Fine potentiometers. For modulating the filter frequency, linear (with AC option) and exponential CV inputs plus attenuators. The resonance is manually and voltage controllable as well. Its sound is clean and beefy. Our personal favorite is the band-boost plus notch characteristic, which can be used to create voluminous, slightly vocal-like sound alterations.

While self-oscillating, Filter 8 can be used as a VCO or LFO, emitting eight sine waves with 45 degree phase-shifts. A Comp switch allows you to compensate amplitude disparities between the outputs. Using the V/Oct connector, it is possible to play the module chromatically over a range of approximately four octaves. On top of that, there is a Ping input. With this socket, you can turn the Filter-8 into a powerful percussion generator, creating wooden to metallic drum sounds. Some listeners might be reminded of Buchla bongos. Use the linear or exponential FM to add wetness. – Awesome!

Another new Joranalogue module is the Select 2, a dual gated precision CV processor. We won’t bother you with all the details right now. Let’s just say: This circuit can do really nasty (and fantastic) stuff to control voltages.

Select 2 will be available in June 2018. The price is 160 Euros. Filter 8 will follow a few months later. It’ll cost 295 Euro.

Five12 – Vector Sequencer

Five12

James Coker, owner of the company Five12, announced that his Vector sequencer will go into production soon. The module is a digital composition tool with eight tracks. Each of them features two sub-sequencers for internal modulation. An extensive set of chance-based functions, including options like random ratcheting, pitch and playback alterations plus mute options, allow you to create variations of sequences on the fly. Two new features, which James announced at Superbooth 2018, are a chord mode and a record thru function. Patterns can be organized in playlists to create songs and live sets. Thanks to two OLED displays plus a total of nine encoders, a piano-style button matrix and other control elements, operating the Vector is easy as pie. – Despite its high level of sophistication.

Five12_1

 

The Vector itself offers analog outputs for two tracks. In detail, it emits pitch, gate and velocity signals. Additionally, there are two 3.5 mm MIDI connectors and both USB A and B ports. Three bi-directional trigger sockets can be used for sync, clock and trigger functions. On top of that, there are two CV inputs, which allow you to feed external modulation signals to the sequencer. Incoming control voltages can influence various parameters. If this configuration is not enough to fully control your setup, it is time for the Five12 Jack Expander. This module adds four more analog output sets, each consisting of pitch, gate and velocity connectors. Furthermore, the Jack Expander features eight more bi-directional trigger sockets, a MIDI DIN input and output plus DIN Sync ports. You can freely assign all these connectors to the sequencer tracks.

A micro-SD card slot is installed on the back of the unit. There are auto-saving and load functions, so you’ll always have the last session at hand when you switch on your modular system. The USB A port can be used to transfer data to your computer, meaning to create a backup.

Vector and Jack Expander will be available for pre-order at SchneidersLaden soon. James said the prices will be 699 USD (Vector) and 359 USD (Jack Expander). Prices in Euro have yet to be determined. The Vector will be available in August. Its Jack Expander will follow about a month later.

Euterpe Synthesizer Laboratories

Euterpe Synthesizer Laboratories

Stefano, founder of the Euterpe Synthesizer Laboratories, shows the second generation of his analog filter bank Vertice at Superbooth 2018. The unit’s appearance alone will make many musicians’ mouth water. It is completely hand-made, using high-quality, Through Hole components only. The feel is excellent. Stefano gives each of his babies a different name. It is engraved on a plaque, which can be found on the back of each unit. Wooden side panels with engraving are optional. – These audio processors area not built with attention for detail, but with unconditional love!

Euterpe_3

The Vertice is composed of three voltage controllable multimode filters. In detail, high-pass, band-pass and low-pass modes are available. Each filter comes equipped with a cutoff and a resonance knob. In addition, there is a big Master cutoff potentiometer. The filters are based on the Sallen-Key topology. Therefore, the Vertice’s basic character might be more rough than you’d expect, considering the noble appearance. It sometimes sounds like a cleaner, classy version of the Korg MS-20 filter circuit. – At least with the smooth resonance path active. There is a second option, which can be activated on a per filter basis. These “psycho” resonance paths, as Stefano once called them, give the Vertice some erratic, brute character traits.

In front of each filter, there is a pre-amp. An overload circuit allows you to use the unit as a multichannel distortion effect with extremely beefy results. Thanks to several routing options and audio connectors, it is possible to combine the pre-amps and filters in various ways. For instance, you can use two of the circuits to process stereo material or chain all three filters in series to create complex, rhythmically moving results.

Euterpe_2

In terms of modulators, the Vertice features an ADSR envelope with loop and invert functions. It offers three timing ranges (percussive, smooth, slow). The envelope can be used to influence either the Master cutoff parameter or the final VCA. – By the way: The second, really large knob is the final volume control.

With driving one filter into self-oscillation, you can play the Vertice like an instrument. Thanks to all the audio inputs and outputs, it is possible to patch feedbacks and tie in external effects. – Very inspiring! If you don’t believe us, come by at Superbooth 18 or SchneidersLaden. We have a Vertice in our showroom, waiting to be ambitiously fondled.

ABOUT STROMKULT


STROMKULT is our platform for updates and news on SCHNEIDERSLADEN and SUPERBOOTH, selected electronic musical instruments and events related to modular synthesizers, sequencers, competent drum machines, analog modular systems, midi tools, controllers, converters and related products of all kinds. You can find all kinds of events related to these topic in our EVENT CALENDAR. Also on this site you will find lots of videos from SUPERBOOTH – the world’s largest trade fair for electronic musical instruments, news about events and workshops at SCHNEIDERSLADEN.

Herr Schneider started in 1999 with SCHNEIDERSBUERO as a sales and marketing platform for the smallest manufacturers and inventors of electronic musical instruments. Products were shown online, in our showrooms and at the original SUPERBOOTH – workshops and countless reviews have been featured in magazines all over Europe.

These very special instruments and tools are now often available from specialist dealers all over Europe and can be purchased directly from our webshop SCHNEIDERSLADEN worldwide.