Synthesizers
We’re heading into the final stretch of 2023 and synth manufacturers have been busy with new and updated models that offer sonic inspiration. With so many choices, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. In this buying guide, we’ll demystify some of the latest synthesizer technology and find that perfect instrument for you or a loved one that fits any budget.
Synthesizers have been around for more than 60 years and, as much as technology progresses, we still find the same basic analog subtractive synthesis principles used for most synthesizer designs.
Modular synthesizer enthusiasts are over the moon with the news that B&H is now carrying Erica Synths’s line of electronic instruments. Based in Latvia, Erica Synths has slowly been carving out its place among high-end synthesizer manufacturers. The brand offers a remarkable range of modular and desktop synthesizers and drum machines. For anyone interested in modular synthesis, Erica Synths offers a wide range of products for any budget and skill level. Each of the complete systems comprises modules that are available individually, so you
B&H welcomes UDO Audio’s magnificent musical instruments to the fold. UDO (Unidentified Dancing Objects) is a UK-based company that creates electronic musical instruments that foster a strong and inspiring connection with the player. By using cutting-edge technology balanced with an intuitive, user-centric design, UDO Audio creates products that are powerful and unapologetically enjoyable. If you did an Internet search for Roland Jupiter 8 alternatives, the
0 Views ·Posted 06/06/2023
Which one of these synthesizers is right for you? Gabriel Richards discusses their specs and demonstrates Arturia’s MiniFreak 6-Voice Spontaneous Algorithmic Synthesizer and Arturia’s Pigments 4 Polychrome Software Synthesizer.
0:00 - Introduction
1:07 - Minifuse 4 and Minilab 3
1:28 - MiniFreak Demo
3:27 - MiniFreak Key Specs
4:28 - Synth Engines
7:43 - Modulation Matrix
9:14 - Analog Filter and Envelope Generators
10:48 - Custom LFO Shapes
11:17 - Digital Effects
0 Views ·Posted 05/22/2023
In this B&H video, Gabriel Richards tests the MELBOURNE INSTRUMENTS NINA, a 12-Voice Analog Polyphonic Multitimbral Synthesizer with Motorized Controls. Join Richards as he demonstrates this synthesizer and discusses its features.
0:00 - Key Specs
2:23 - Physical Specs
6:17 - Signal Path & Synth Engine
10:01 - Filter
12:20 - Modulation
16:06 - Stacking
19:28 - Final Thought
Are you interested in trying the MELBOURNE INSTRUMENTS NINA for yourself? Post questions or repartee in the Comments
0 Views ·Posted 03/22/2023
Gabriel Richards tests the ExpressiveE Osmose Synthesizer and MPE Controller, a 24-voice polyphonic synthesizer with an innovative way to control sound using gestures. This unit blends tradition and innovation, allowing you to unleash your creativity.
Does this technology interest you?
0:00 - Main Specs
0:43 - In Use
3:03 - Physical Specs
5:18 - Interface (Menus and Presets)
13:49 - MPE Controller
15:44 - Is This for You
0 Views ·Posted 01/08/2023
Gabriel Richards demos the re-released, retro, and legendary Moog synthesizer, the Minimoog Model D! This updated version maintains the exact sound engine as the original but with some additions, including analog LFO and Filter Contour as modulation sources, a Fatar TP-9 keybed with velocity and aftertouch, CV outputs for Pitch, Aftertouch, Velocity, and Gate, an external Modulation CV input, MIDI In, Out, and Thru, and improved circuit-board connectors for touring reliability.
0:00 - Introductory jam
1:
Expressive E, in collaboration with Haken Audio, announced the release of a new standalone polyphonic synthesizer, the Osmose. Designed to set a new standard for musical expressivity, the Osmose features a deep, modular digital sound engine; hundreds of high-quality, ready-to-use presets; and new MPE gesture technology that allows you to not only play with ease but unlock new ways to control sound, such as pressing,
Synthesizer designs in the 21st century have returned to hands-on control knobs for immediate, tactile sound sculpting, but when you switch between stored patches, the knobs don't accurately reflect the settings. This mismatch can lead to sudden, abrupt changes in the sound—like that time your dramatic live filter sweep accidentally began with the frequency knob maxed out. Well, all that is set to change with the introduction of the
I’ve been a fan of Novation since the early 2000s when the company released the virtual analog Nova series. To this day, I still own and love my Nova desktop synth. When I was asked if I was interested in writing a hands-on review of the Novation Peak, I couldn’t say no. The Peak is a hybrid 8-voice analog/digital synthesizer. There are pros and cons to both analog and digital technologies,
Joining Novation's popular and portable Circuit Series music-making machines is Circuit Tracks, a potent groovebox (and so much more) purpose-built for EDM and dance music production in the studio or anywhere creativity flows. With its dual poly-synth engines, sample-based drum tracks, screen-free workflow, and internal rechargeable four-hour battery, Circuit Tracks is an all-in-one music studio solution that can go
During the holidaze, it's easy to get overwhelmed, and sometimes we forget to get a gift for that someone special. If that someone is a musician, then we've got a list of great gift ideas that won't break the bank and will guarantee to put a smile on their face.
Digital Metronome
For hundreds of years, musicians have used a mechanical musical chronometer, or a metronome, to keep tempo during practice and performances. Any musician will find a metronome invaluable.
The
Despite the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, synthesizer manufacturers have been churning out some magnificent instruments with a wide pallet of sonic inspirations. This buying guide features 2020’s best offerings. From the top of the line to the basic budget, you will find something for everyone.
Arturia
Arturia turned some heads years ago with its release of the classic MatrixBrute. This year, the company upped the ante with
Many kinds of keyboard players will be delighted by Korg’s new offering of music workstations and synths. Whether you need a workhorse to handle your live shows, an FM synth to explore the boundaries of sound design, or a powerful controller to serve as the nerve center of all your Eurorack gear and drum machines, Korg has you covered.
For live players who rely on a Korg keyboard workstation during shows, Korg is releasing the
Leave it to Moog to make esoteric electronic musical instruments that are bound to intrigue anyone from the synth-curious musician to the avid collector. The company's latest releases feature the limited-run return of the Werkstatt-01 analog synth kit and the Claravox Centennial premium performance theremin, available in standard