Macbeth

Written on 5. May 2018. Posted in about NEW products .., SUPERBOOTH18.

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.

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.

About the interaction between humans and machines – SOOPERtalk @SUPERBOOTH18

Written on 5. May 2018. Posted in SOOPERTALKS.

The first panel discussion this year reflected the interaction between humans and machines in the process of music-making. Mylar Melodies moderated the talk with very special guests – Lady Starlight, Katia Isakoff, Lady Blacktronika and Andrew Huang.

They gave us an insight into their personal experiences with various instruments and tools with which they play, produce or make music themselves.
The relationship that artists build up with their instruments can have a strong influence on creativity and the workflow. This discussion is also about which aspects of the instruments inspire, promote or perhaps even disturb the artists.

Doepfer

Written on 5. May 2018. Posted in about NEW products .., SUPERBOOTH18.

Doepfer

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

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.

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

Written on 5. May 2018. Posted in about NEW products .., SUPERBOOTH18.

Erica Synths

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

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

Written on 5. May 2018. Posted in about NEW products .., SUPERBOOTH18.

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“.

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.

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

Written on 5. May 2018. Posted in about NEW products .., SUPERBOOTH18.

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.

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

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

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.

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

Written on 5. May 2018. Posted in about NEW products .., SUPERBOOTH18.

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.

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.

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.

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

Make Noise – Morphagene

Written on 4. May 2018. Posted in about NEW products .., SUPERBOOTH18.

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

Written on 4. May 2018. Posted in about NEW products .., SUPERBOOTH18.

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.

ALM Busy Circuits

Written on 4. May 2018. Posted in about NEW products .., SUPERBOOTH18.

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.

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.

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

Written on 4. May 2018. Posted in about NEW products .., SUPERBOOTH18.

Birdkids

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

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.

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.

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

Written on 4. May 2018. Posted in about NEW products .., SUPERBOOTH18.

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.

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

Written on 4. May 2018. Posted in about NEW products .., SUPERBOOTH18.

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.

Endorphines

Written on 4. May 2018. Posted in about NEW products .., SUPERBOOTH18.

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.

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.

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

Written on 3. May 2018. Posted in about NEW products .., SUPERBOOTH18.

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

Written on 3. May 2018. Posted in about NEW products .., SUPERBOOTH18.

Analogue Systems

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

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.

MFB

Written on 3. May 2018. Posted in about NEW products .., SUPERBOOTH18.

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.

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

Written on 3. May 2018. Posted in about NEW products .., SUPERBOOTH18.

ACL

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.

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

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

Written on 3. May 2018. Posted in about NEW products .., SUPERBOOTH18.

Pittsburgh Modular

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

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.

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

Written on 3. May 2018. Posted in about NEW products .., SUPERBOOTH18.

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.

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

Written on 3. May 2018. Posted in about NEW products .., SUPERBOOTH18.

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.

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

Written on 3. May 2018. Posted in about NEW products .., SUPERBOOTH18.

Steady State Fate

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!

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.

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.

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.

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

Written on 3. May 2018. Posted in about NEW products .., SUPERBOOTH18.

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.

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

Written on 3. May 2018. Posted in about NEW products .., SUPERBOOTH18.

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

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

Written on 3. May 2018. Posted in about NEW products .., SUPERBOOTH18.

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.

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

Written on 3. May 2018. Posted in about NEW products .., SUPERBOOTH18.

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!

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.

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.

GusGus (+special guest) live concert @SUPERBOOTH18

Written on 3. May 2018. Posted in SUPERBOOTH18, Videos.

GusGus at SUPERBOOTH18 – what a special night and special guest! As the final headliner on the last day of SUPERBOOTH18 GusGus played in the K1 and it was a perfect last act for a successful third year of Superbooth! The packed room not only saw a great performance by GusGus, but also witnessed Dieter Döpfer joining the stage and playing together with Birgir „Biggi Veira“ Þórarinsson on the mostly Doepfer equipment. These special situations make Superbooth an outstanding event in the annual program of electronic music events, it is about community, making music and sharing a passion. Enjoy this video!

Almost SUPERBOOTH18 time! Got your tickets?

Written on 1. May 2018. Posted in SUPERBOOTH.

SUPERBOOTH18 starts on Thursday – so you have plenty of time to book a flight and hotel, buy your three-day-pass online or at the door and …ok ok HURRY UP!

If you are not able to make it to SUPERBOOTH18 this year, don’t worry! You might miss the highlight of the year, but at least we got you covered regarding any interesting news! Most of the SchneidersLaden crew will search for the most interesting new products at SUPERBOOTH18 and post about it here on stromkult.com!

BUT – If you can make it to the event, here are some details that might be helpful:

Opening hours
10am – 1pm trade visitor opening times for professional visitors only (tickets can be ordered online, with proof of professional classification)
1pm – 7pm public opening hours for the trade fair
7pm – 11.30pm evening program

Day tickets allow access to the fair from 1pm to midnight. Discounted tickets are offered for the evening program on superbooth.com.
All tickets from the presale entitle you to use our shuttle boats free of charge as long as sufficient seats are available on board.

Boat shuttle – Jannowitzbrücke to SUPERBOOTH18
08.30am Exhibitors/ professional visitors
11.30am Regular guests
2.30pm Late risers
5.30pm Guests coming for the evening program

Boat shuttle – SUPERBOOTH18 to Jannowitzbrücke
8.30pm perfect to get to the after-show program in the C-Base on time
0:00am

Links
Program
Exhibitors
Tickets

Pre-sale tickets include the right to use the boat shuttle!

SchneidersLaden presents: SUPERBOOTH18
May 03 – 05, 2018
FEZ Berlin, Straße zum FEZ 2, 12459 Berlin

ZOOM ARQ presentation @Superbooth17

Written on 30. April 2018. Posted in SUPERBOOTH, Videos.

Zoom offers with the ARQ rhythm track a very innovative interface for a groovebox controller solution. The ARQ offers an internal battery and Bluetooth connectivity, so you can move and perform on stage with ease. ARQ is a drum machine, sequencer, synthesizer, looper, and MIDI controller with a built-in accelerometer. In this video you can hear what the ZOOM ARQ can do.

The Japanese manufacturer ZOOM is once again present at SUPERBOOTH18 – find them at Booth H304.

Livia B. Gesprächskonzert for Arrel Audio @Superbooth17

Written on 27. April 2018. Posted in SUPERBOOTH, Videos.

Livia B. was playing a Gesprächskonzert for Arrel Audio on Superbooth17 introducing their Eurorack products that can be declared as outboard accessories, too. Their outstanding modules are a summing mixer, a Mid-Side Processor and a Stereo Parametric Equalizer.

Livia will be presenting Arrels product range again this year on Saturday 2:40pm – Arrel Audio will be found with all their wonderful products on Booth H375.

In preparation for SUPERBOOTH18 why not watch the official trailer too? Head over to HerrSchneiders vimeo!

Regroove your audio files – Accusonus Regroover @SUPERBOOTH17

Written on 27. April 2018. Posted in SUPERBOOTH, Videos.

Accusonus builds audio repair software and music creation software for jamming, inspiring and innovative sounds. Here they present the unique software Regroover that lets you discover unheard elements and sounds within your drum loops and other samples. Create new sounds from old or simply adjust the volume of individual elements inside a loop. Regroover uses Artificial-Intelligence to extract layers from within your previously recorded beats and samples. Here Ben Lucas Boysen demonstrates this unusual software with different source materials.

Accusonus will be at SUPERBOOTH18 again – find them at Booth O139 and don’t miss their next Gesprächskonzert Saturday 3.20pm in the cinema at SUPERBOOTH18!

New SUPERBOOTH18 trailer!

Written on 24. April 2018. Posted in SUPERBOOTH.

HerrSchneider just uploaded the new trailer for the upcoming SUPERBOOTH18 next week at FEZ Berlin. Make sure to get your ticket now on superbooth.com!

SchneidersLaden presents: SUPERBOOTH18
May 03 – 05, 2018
FEZ Berlin, Straße zum FEZ 2, 12459 Berlin

Opening hours
10am – 1pm trade visitor opening times for professional visitors only (tickets can be ordered online, with proof of professional classification)
1pm – 7pm public opening hours for the trade fair
7pm – 11.30pm evening program
Day tickets allow access to the fair from 1pm to midnight. Discounted tickets are offered for the evening program on superbooth.com.
All tickets from the presale entitle you to use our shuttle boats free of charge as long as sufficient seats are available on board.

Boat shuttle – Jannowitzbrücke to SUPERBOOTH18
08.30am Exhibitors/ professional visitors
11.30am Regular guests
2.30pm Late risers
5.30pm Guests coming for the evening program

Boat shuttle – SUPERBOOTH18 to Jannowitzbrücke
8.30pm perfect to get to the after-show program in the C-Base on time
0:00am

Links
Program
Exhibitors
Tickets
Pre-sale tickets include the right to use the boat shuttle!

Radek Rudnicki’s presentation of AJH Synth modules @SUPERBOOTH17

Written on 24. April 2018. Posted in SUPERBOOTH, Videos.

AJH Synth are a UK based manufacturer of Eurorack modules, specialised in handmade vintage analogue designs. The MiniMod system is a range of analogue modules that very accurately recreate the early Moog Model D synthesiser in Eurorack modular format, with further modules now available to expand it into a fully featured modular synthesiser. And they even have some unique designs like the Sonic XV Filter, Ring SM ring modulator/sub bass/mixer and the Finaliser R-EQ. Here you can hear some experimental sounds from the classy AJH Synth eurorack module line. This is a short excerpt from Radek Rudnicki’s AJH Synth Gesprächskonzert at SUPERBOOTH17.

You can get an impression of this quality line of modules at AJH Synth’s Booth E150 during SUPERBOOTH18.

MODULAR SYNTHESIZER EMSEMBLE – Project for participants between 14 and 18 years @SUPERBOOTH18

Written on 23. April 2018. Posted in SUPERBOOTH.

During SUPERBOOTH18 the project MODULAR SYNTHESIZER EMSEMBLE will be presented again, which successfully celebrated its premiere at last year’s Superbooth. The teenagers work independently on the 12 provided modular synthesizers. Guided by Gammon, they experiment, improvise and develop a composition of their own which will be performed publicly on 5th of May in the FEZ Berlin.

www.modularsynthesizerensemble.at

Date: 05 May 2018 – SUPERBOOTH18 at FEZ Berlin

The participants meet at 9:20 am at the carousel in the foyer.
Start of the project at 9:30 am.
Performance on stage at K1 at 1:30 pm.

Please register at: mail@gammon.at

Participation is free – the workshop is limited to 12 persons. Parents, legal guardians, siblings etc. of the participants need a regular admission ticket to the fair.

Befaco presenting their mixer modules @SUPERBOOTH17

Written on 23. April 2018. Posted in SUPERBOOTH, Videos.

In February 2010 Befaco was created as an open hardware platform focusing on professional DIY musical hardware. Befaco presented their modular modular mixer solution for eurorack – Hexmix, Hexpander, Hex Mix VCA. This mixer might be the closest to an external mixer that you can buy for eurorack. But it also has some very handy features for live-performances – like vactrol-based mute buttons.

The Barcelona based company will also offer their legendary workshops during SUPERBOOTH18 and you can find them also at Booth O512.

Yamaha presents the MX88 @SUPERBOOTH17

Written on 18. April 2018. Posted in SUPERBOOTH, Videos.

Yamaha presented the MX88 synthesizer in a Gesprächskonzert at SUPERBOOTH17. The new top model of the MX series has a weighted keyboard with 88 keys and brings the legendary Motif sound engine to the table once again.
What you can expect from this video is some nice keyboard sounds and a skilled performance from Yamaha’s presenter.

Yamaha will be at SUPERBOOTH18 again – you can meet them and check out their latest products at Booth #H310 or watch the next Yamaha Gesprächskonzert on Saturday at 3pm.

Vermona Gesprächskonzert with Tomka Manu Modula @SUPERBOOTH17

Written on 12. April 2018. Posted in SUPERBOOTH, Videos.

Vermona presented the most part of their product line at SUPERBOOTH17 with a Gesprächskonzert by Tomka Manu Modula. They played a slow jam session with lots of high quality sounds coming from the modular, equipped mostly with Vermona and Cwejman modules and an additional Vermona ‘14 Synthesizer Keyboard.

Vermona will be at SUPERBOOTH18 again – you can meet them and check out their products at Booth #O234 or watch the Vermona Gesprächskonzert on Friday at 5:20pm in the cinema.

Alissa DeRubeis and Yasi Perera – experimental live performance @SUPERBOOTH17

Written on 10. April 2018. Posted in SUPERBOOTH, Videos.

Alissa DeRubeis and Yasi Perera played an experimental (modular) live set at SUPERBOOTH17. Their performance is called “Quite Eyes of Air” and is described as “wake up music, for when youwakeup.”

Using a modular Synthesizer, vocal elements, samples and noise, they create an experimental sound collage – and a world of their own.

Alissa is a founder of the Portland S1 Synth Library, that will also open a venue in Prague! The Portland Synth Library was created in Spring 2016 in partnership with 4MS Company. It is a unique resource for hands-on access to modular synthesizers and other electronic musical instruments for people of all experience levels. They regularly offer introductory courses for all interested individuals. Alissa will also offer special daily introductory workshops on the usage of modular synthesizers at SUPERBOOTH18 for women and non-binary.

Program for SUPERBOOTH18 announced!

Written on 9. April 2018. Posted in events and meetings .., SUPERBOOTH.

SchneidersLaden presents: SUPERBOOTH18

SUPERBOOTH18 at FEZ Berlin – 03-05 May 2018 – Trade Fair for Electronic Musical Instruments.

The latest developments in (modular) synthesizers, keyboards, effects, studio equipment and software. Almost 250 exhibitors from all over the world, 22 concerts and Gesprächskonzerte daily, panel discussion, workshops and much more.

It starts at 11:30 am with the spacious boat shuttle starting at Jannowitzbrücke and a trip through the eastern part of the German capital. Arrived at the FEZ Berlin the visitors can enjoy daily at 1 pm the first concert of the still young day program on the Seaside stage, or they can attend one of the beginner workshops on modular synthesizers, one exclusively for women and non-binary persons, and one open to everyone. Gammon, together with a school class, develops a performance for the Modular Synthesizer Ensemble, presented daily at 1:30 pm. Afterwards, at 2 pm, the promotional stage program begins with concerts by Caterina Barbieri on a modern Eurorack modular system and Leon Michener on a prepared grand piano. Altogether there are 11 concerts of this kind daily, on Friday for example with Bernd Kistenmacher on classical synthesizers, as well as Udo Hanten on a 5U modular system. On Saturday, among others, there will be the Gesprächskonzert of Nonlinear Labs with Stephan Schmitt and the C 15 keyboard. Parallel to this, DIY workshops, specialist workshops from the participating educational institutions and the entertainment program of the other exhibitors will take place throughout the day. So it makes sense to come to SUPERBOOTH18 for more than one day, to also watch the concert of Carolina Eyck on the Theremin or Tobi Neumann and Fadi with an ambient performance.

For people who like to sleep a little longer the boat shuttle is available at 2:30 pm or 5:30 pm. Thus one reaches the FEZ Berlin on time for the evening program and for spending some time on the exhibition before the evening program begins at 7 pm. Here #instantboner, T.Raumschmiere & FucketYbUcKetY, Ströme and Tikiman shake hands. With the low-priced ticket for the evening hours you can also see Boys Noiz with 2244, ATEQ, GusGus and many others. Max Loderbauer, who was on the SUPERBOOTH17 stage last year together with Ricardo Villalobos, will play together with Tobias Freund as NSI this year.

Those who like it a bit quieter will be pleased about the film screening of The Potential of Noise, a documentary about the legendary music producer and studio operator Conny Plank. The film is commented and explained by the initiator of the film, the son of the protagonist. On all three evenings there will also be discussions with guests such as Daniel Miller, Uwe Schmidt and Mark Ernestus. Some aspects of The Potential Of Noise will also be addressed here. During Thursday’s SOOPERtalk Lady Starlight, Andrew Huang, Lady Blacktronika and Mylar Melodies will discuss the fascinating interaction between humans and machines in the creative context of music making.

The return trips of the boat shuttle at 8:30 pm and 12:00 am take the guests directly to the landing place at the Jannowitzbrücke in Berlin Mitte, from there it is not far to the official after-show location C-Base. The after-show program will be announced at short notice.

More details and additions to the three-day program can be found on the official website. You can also keep up to date by subscribing to the newsletter on superbooth.com.

Opening hours

10am – 1pm: trade visitor opening times for professional visitors only (tickets can be ordered online, with proof of professional classification)

1pm – 7pm: public opening hours for the trade fair

7pm – 11.30pm: evening program

Day tickets allow access to the fair from 1pm to midnight. Discounted tickets are offered for the evening program on superbooth.com.

All tickets from the presale entitle you to use our shuttle boats free of charge as long as sufficient seats are available on board.

Boat shuttle – Jannowitzbrücke to SUPERBOOTH18

08.30am: Exhibitors/ professional visitors

11.30am: Regular guests

2.30pm: Late risers

5.30pm: Guests coming for the evening program

Boat shuttle – SUPERBOOTH18 to Jannowitzbrücke

8.30pm: perfect to get to the after-show program in the C-Base on time

0:00am

Links

Program: www.superbooth.com/en/events.html

Exhibitors: www.superbooth.com/en/messe-102.html

Tickets: www.superbooth.com/en/tickets_en.html

Pre-sale tickets include the right to use the boat shuttle!

“The knobs are amazing” – Erica Synths presenting their Drum Sequencer @Superbooth17

Written on 9. April 2018. Posted in SUPERBOOTH, Videos.

The long awaited Drum Sequencer by Erica Synths did get a lot attention at last years SUPERBOOTH17. Still being under development this presentation of the module is a great way to get an impression of the workflow of this module. And: “The knobs are amazing.”

Kodek plays some Dub inspired music, with the Drum Sequencer being the heart of his modular system. The all improvised performance proves this sequencer to be a really nice tool to create live music on the fly. Additionally some of the drum modules he uses are soon-to-be-released modules by this busy company from Latvia.

At SUPERBOOTH18 Erica Synths will play another Gesprächskonzert on Saturday at 3:40pm and you can find their Booth E245 in the Foyer.

Moon Modular – 5U Synthesizer live performance @SUPERBOOTH17

Written on 5. April 2018. Posted in SUPERBOOTH.

The Berlin manufacturer of 5U modular synthesizers Moon Modular invited Udo Hanten to present this versatile modular in a live presentation. Hanten who has been practicing the style of the Berlin School since the 70s, is known for his work with Harald Grosskopf, Zenamon and the Space-Rock Band YOU. In the 80s he gained intensive sequencer experience in productions in the
Tangerine Dream Studio by Chris Franke. His performance consists of ambient Sound creations, surrounded by contemporary beats.

Moon Modular will return to SUPERBOOTH18 with their Booth H351 and of cause with another Gesprächskonzert – Friday (5:40pm).

Video: Bitwig Gesprächskonzert @SUPERBOOTH17

Written on 3. April 2018. Posted in SUPERBOOTH.

Bitwig did a Gesprächskonzert at SUPERBOOTH17 presenting the versatility an flexibility of this interesting piece of software. In this video you see their live performance with three musicians, integrating a Roland MC202 with CV and Gate and a guitar. Bitwig is already a landmark in the field of music production and live performance software.

You can experience Bitwig at their Booth H324 at SUPERBOOTH18 in May, together with almost 250 other exhibitors and dozens of concerts every day! But first enjoy the video of this improvised jam session:

Video: Elektron at SUPERBOOTH17

Written on 29. March 2018. Posted in SUPERBOOTH.

The Gesprächskonzert by Elektron features the Digitakt and Analog Heat. The more affordable and most hands on Elektron sound source – the Digitakt – was announced at Superbooth in 2017. Here you can see Dataline playing with it on the first day of the release of this versatile sampler and sound design machine. Sound design (and destruction) can also be achieved with the second product in this video – the Analog Heat. Here you can here both machines in action.

Elektron will also be at SUPERBOOTH18, where you can also see their latest product – the Digitone! You can find the Elektron Booth in the new West Wing at SUPERBOOTH18 -> Booth W110
Elektron will do another Gesprächskonzert at SUPERBOOTH18 -> Thursday 3rd of May, 5pm

Tiptop Audio and Konstantin Gervis @SUPERBOOTH17

Written on 26. March 2018. Posted in SUPERBOOTH.

Tiptop Audio product specialist and artist Konstantin Gervis played a Gesprächskonzert at SUPERBOOTH17. Konstantin is long time Tiptop Audio user and composed his live rig almost entirely with Tiptop Audio modules. The pretty complete product line with VCOs, envelopes, sequencers, effects, sample players and the mighty drum modules Tiptop offers a suitable range of modules for playing techno and most other styles of electronic music live.

In this video Konstantin explains his live rig, how it is composed, which modules he uses, explains the signal flow and why he made certain decisions about his (almost) all-Tiptop-System.

To find out more about the current line of Tiptop Audio modules come to SUPERBOOTH18 – you can find them here.

Gudrun Gut and HerrSchneider talking about Monika Werkstatt @ SUPERBOOTH18

Written on 1. March 2018. Posted in SUPERBOOTH, Videos.

Gudrun Gut once had a place in West Berlin, where everyone met, founded one of the first relevant women’s bands – Malaria, and has been working for years to help relax the unhealthy predominance of male DJs, artists and performers in electronic music through more female acts, which is not easy.

In this conversation between Gudrun Gut and HerrSchneider they pass SUPERBOOTH17 in review, talking about the constellation of Monika Werkstatt, the concept behind their two concerts and the life in Berlin before and after the Fall of the Berlin Wall. Monika Werkstatt is a project of female artists that perform together. For SUPERBOOTH17 they had a special and courageous concept. Each of the five performers chose an instrument from one of the exhibiting manufacturers. Without knowing the instruments, other than from the event itself, they played two improvised concerts. An excerpt of each of the concerts can be seen in this video. Monika Werkstatt will be back at SUPERBOOTH18 in May! Get your tickets here.

Please enjoy! And please learn German for the conversation part, luckily the concert parts are in the universal language of music.

Carolina Eyck and Eden Grey will be performing @ SUPERBOOTH18

Written on 23. February 2018. Posted in events and meetings .., SUPERBOOTH, Videos.

We are delighted to announce two artists that will be playing at SUPERBOOTH18 – Carolina Eyck will be performing with her Theremin and Eden Grey with her modular synthesizer.

The Theremin concert will be performed on the Pro version of the Moog Etherwave Theremin. This model has been discontinued more than 10 years ago. It is considered to be the most professional and serious Theremin model Moog ever made. Due to the better scaling of the pitch field it is more suitable for professional Theremin playing. To improve the playability of the standard Moog Theremin Plus there is a modification available that has been developed by Thierry Frenkel. This modification is available from a shop in The Hague.

If you are willing to learn this unusual and historic electronic musical instrument, there is the Theremin Academy happening in Berlin one week after SUPERBOOTH18. Check out their website for more information.

The second announcement for today – that we are very happy about – is the return of Eden Grey to SUPERBOOTH18. The organizer of London’s famous CV FREQS modular synthesizer event already played at SUPERBOOTH17 and she is very welcome to be part of the program again. To get an impression of what to expect, we have added a small portion of her concert from SUPERBOOTH17 to this video.

Feld at SUPERBOOTH17

Written on 16. February 2018. Posted in SUPERBOOTH, Videos.

Feld were unusual, but very welcome guests at SUPERBOOTH17. Their energetic music is created in a three-part band with guitar, bass and drums. With his bass guitar, Konstatin lays the sonic foundation for the landscape of the obscure melodies created by Chrsitian with his guitar. In addition, Carlo adds a good portion of energy to the sound with his drums and contributes psychedelic sound-walls to the mix with various small sound generators and effects. A very pleasant addition to the Superbooth program.

Enjoy this video of Feld’s live performance at SUPERBOOTH17!

Tyler Thompson for WMD @SUPERBOOTH17

Written on 8. February 2018. Posted in SUPERBOOTH, Videos.

WMD did a very nice Gesprächskonzert with their wide range of products at SUPERBOOTH17. Tyler Thompson from WMD is performing a hardware techno session on a modular synthesizer with the new Arpitecht and Chimera modules by WMD. A perfect example of how to use a Gesprächskonzert for the presentation of products in their natural habitat. In this way, the audience can imagine how the products can be effectively used and what they can achieve.

Wachtelei at Schneiders kitchen with Mouse on Mars

Written on 1. February 2018. Posted in SUPERBOOTH, Videos.

Herr Schneider and Herr Schneider Jr. are presenting the first cooking show by SchneidersLaden.

Jan St. Werner and Andi Toma are Mouse on Mars. They have been an influential part of the electronic music scene since the mid-90s and released several albums on different labels since that time. Their most recent releases are the E.P. Synaptics (out now) and the album Dimensional People which will be out in April. Andi and Jan like to work with digital sound generators, like apps and little gadgets – as you can also see in the SOOPERtalk 3 video from SUPERBOOTH17. In this video you will learn how to make an omelette ‘Mouse on Mars-style’ and why mice on mars smoke mysterious pipes.

Mouse on Mars: E.P. – Synaptics (out now) // L.P. – Dimensional People (out in April)

SOOPERtalk 1 – Flake Lorenz talking about how to become famous

Written on 25. January 2018. Posted in SOOPERTALKS.

“As a musician, you are already successful in the moment you start making music.” Flake Lorenz

This is one of our personal highlights in the young history of SUPERBOOTH. Flake Lorenz is the keyboard player of Rammstein, he is talking about his youth and the early years of his musical career. In the end this is the story of how to become famous in the music industry (don’t do what you are told), discovering their passion for fire and how they were able to tour the GDR. As his early Band Feeling B did. They played everywhere they could – on camping grounds, exhibition openings and open fields. Always with him on stage was his Casio SK-5 Sampling Keyboard and Flake is still searching for a remake of this special piece of hardware, because all comparable and available instruments are just too complicated to work the way they should.

Enough said. If you are curious to know why Rammstein once stood on a street in New York with bleeding wounds and nobody cared, then watch this lecture: … and yes, please learn German first!

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.

ABOUT STROMKULT

FRIENDS AND PARTNERS

Superbooth

SCHNEIDERSLADEN