Black Lion Audio announces availability of affordable PG-XLM and PG-X as best-in-class power conditioning CHICAGO, ILLINOIS, USA: boutique audio company Black Lion Audio is proud to announce availability of the PG-XLM Power Conditioner and PG-X Power Conditioner — providing best-in-class professional power conditioning as affordable 1U rack- mounting must-haves with PG-90 Filtering technology providing an average of 90% of noise filtering — as of December 28… Anyone actively involved in professional music-making — onstage or otherwise — knows that it takes more than a few rack-mounted power outlets to inspire true confidence in a power conditioner. Clearly, acquiring a must-have piece of gear only to find it noisier than expected or missing high-frequency detail — or, worse still, having it fried by an unwanted power surge — are all far from ideal scenarios! Such sorry setbacks need not happen, however; Black Lion Audio is here to help, having long since been trusted to modify the best gear and make it even better, which is what it took to create the PG-XLM and PG-X — taking industry-standard designs, and improving them to the point of peak performance. Power conditioning comes naturally to Black Lion Audio. After creating its original PG-1 (https://www.blacklionaudio.com/store/products/pg-1/) as a confidence- inspiring, rack-mountable power conditioner — also available as the PG-1 TYPE F (https://www.blacklionaudio.com/store/products/pg-1-type-f/) variant with 230V Europlug connections, the company collectively realised that there are a lot of professionals out there working with a smaller budget who felt left out since some of its features could conceivably be viewed as overkill when seeking something appropriate at a more affordable price point. It is with this in mind that Black Lion Audio has built both the PG-XLM and PG-X, while still providing best-in-class professional power conditioning! Clearly not all power conditioners are created equal, yet Black Lion Audio acknowledges that everyone’s hard-earned equipment purchases deserve the best power possible, which is why it took great care in making sure that the PG-XLM and PG-X both deliver just that — thanks to that best-in-class PG-90 Filtering technology providing an average of 90% of noise filtering, as opposed to the typical average of 76% found in other power conditioners at the same price point. Putting this into practice, the PG-XLM features a back-panel-sited bank of eight switched, filtered, and surge-protected power outlets. On the front panel, there is a single SWITCHED OUTLET, an LED (Light Emitting Diode) display-based real-time VOLTAGE MONITOR, two pull-out lamps, and a (5V1A) USB CHARGER for device charging. As implied by its shortened nomenclature, the PG-X drops the lamps and metering from that specification, yet far from falls short of the mark by duly delivering the same core functionality to also provide confidence-inspiring power as an affordable 1U rack-mounting must-have.
The PG-XLM Power Conditioner is available to purchase through Black Lion Audio’s growing global network of dealers/distributors (https://www.blacklionaudio.com/dealers) with a MAP (Minimum Advertised Price) of $199.00 USD and an SSP (Suggested Selling Price) of €199.00 EUR (excluding VAT). For more in-depth info, please visit its dedicated webpage here: https://www.blacklionaudio.com/store/products/pgxlm/
The PG-X Power Conditioner is available to purchase through Black Lion Audio’s growing global network of dealers/distributors (https://www.blacklionaudio.com/dealers) with a MAP of $119.00 USD and an SSP of €119.00 EUR (excluding VAT). For more in-depth information, please visit its dedicated webpage here: https://www.blacklionaudio.com/store/products/pgx/
Erica Synths’ Black Sequencer takes classical modular sequencing to a new level by adding tons of features required for contemporary modular synthesizersNovember 20, 2020 — Erica Synths announces the arrival of its long-anticipated Black Sequencer Eurorack module, which is shipping at the beginning of December. Sequencing power for a new generation of synthesistsThe Black Sequencer features four channels with CV, gate and modulation outputs, and up to 64 step sequences that can be chained into songs, independent track time divisions, multiplications and lengths. It ncludes a built-in quantizer, LFOs, envelope generators, parameter randomization, a MIDI in/out and many other features essential for composing and performing electronic and experimental music. Despite the Black Sequencer’s depth of features, it provides many programmable parameters per step. Further, it is intuitive, easy and straightforward to use, and can serve as a master controller for many modular setups. Features4 CV/GATE/Modulation tracksMIDI IN and MIDI OUTClock and Reset In/Out16 encoders for easy sequence inputUp to 64 steps per patternSong mode – up to 64 patterns in chain, each pattern can be repeated up to 32 timesNote, Glide, Gate length and Modulation adjustment per stepProbability, repeats and ratcheting per stepMicrotonal tuningAdjustable shuffle per track, shuffle mode customizationTiming divisions/multiplications per trackBuilt-in quantizerRandom pattern generator16 banks of 16 pattern memorySD card slot for backup and firmware updates Erica Synths Black Sequencer will begin shipping in early December at a cost of €510. For more information, please visit the Erica Synths website.
Bristol, UK: leading British synthesiser manufacturer Modal Electronics is proud to announce availability of COBALT8 — an immensely powerful, eight-voice extended VA (Virtual-Analogue) synthesiser that brings traditional and entirely new analogue-style sound textures to modern music creation and production as an innovative, sophisticated synthesis concept comprising two oscillator groups with selectable algorithms in self-contained elements enabling multiple oscillator modulations, an all-new 4-pole morphable ladder filter with switchable configurations, an unparalleled modulation engine, and much more besides, extending far beyond the limits of its analogue forefathers — as of October 29… Creatively kickstarting a new synthesiser series by building on the tradition of warm and punchy analogue-style synth sounds seeded by bygone legendary synthesisers, COBALT8 creatively unlocks the full potential of analogue waveforms with up to 64 high-resolution VA oscillators with extended drift — up to eight for each of its eight true polyphonic voices. The two independent and self-contained Osc (oscillator) groups include sine, pulse, triangle, and sawtooth waveforms alongside 34 unique algorithms allowing for complex analogue synthesis techniques, built-in cross-modulation (sync, ring modulation, and more), PWM (Pulse Width Modulation), smooth morphing between VA waves, bit crushing, and filtered noise — unlike any other VA synthesiser before it, increasing creative options for new-generation synth sounds. Speaking of which, Algorithm1 and Algorithm2 each have an associated simple-to- use pair of controls — A1 and B1, A2 and B2 — chosen to suit the particular algorithm or character, providing musicians with the power of traditionally complex oscillator modulations or processes spontaneously. But beyond COBALT8’s innovative oscillator engine an all-new 4-pole morphable ladder Filter — with Cutoff (frequency), Res (resonance), and Morph controls — has been added by Modal Electronics to inject more warmth and bite into the creative proceedings. Put it this way: with four switchable filter modes to play with, getting creative with the Notch filter or forming unusual synth textures with the Phasor, for instance, is only part of the story since two different characteristics are also available to instil a more subtle behaviour or process the sound with sheer raw power. Pushing onwards and upwards to tap into its unparalleled Mod (modulation) engine, COBALT8’s three dedicated envelope generators for filter (FEG), amplitude (AEG), and modulation (MEG) are all accessible independently or simultaneously, with negative (reverse) versions for the modulation and filter envelopes, enabling extensive control over dynamics and expression. Switchable envelope types provide greater options for tailoring them to suit specific sound purposes. The three — two polyphonic — audio-rate LFOs (Low Frequency Oscillators) can be routed to a multitude of destinations using the sophisticated modulation matrix with eight assignable modulation slots and four additional fixed modulation routings with 12 modulation sources and 55 modulation destinations, duly supporting easy assignments of complex routings to keep the sound evolving.
Elsewhere, the integrated 512-note realtime/step sequencer (Seq) features four powerful animation lanes — Anim1, Anim2, Anim3, and Amin4, letting users compose and create complex melodic patterns with ease. Indeed, its polyphonic 64-note step mode (with eight notes per step) enables easy step input for note and animation values. Meanwhile, multiple sequencer trigger modes coupled with the powerful onboard arpeggiator (Arp) — programmable up to 32 steps with rest capability (and up to 2,048 steps before repeating) — alongside other fanciful features (such as chord hold, inversions, transpose, sustain, and latch) all serve to further enhance COBALT8 playability.
Performance-wise, professional keyboard players will, of course, cherish COBALT8’s rugged, road-ready steel and aluminium chassis and premium FATAR TP/9S 37-note full-size key bed. Better still, the velocity-sensitive keys themselves support aftertouch and deliver smooth action with which to express powerful performances, while COBALT8 itself supports MPE (MIDI Polyphonic Expression) for next-generation expressive creativity. COBALT8’s 29 endless encoders (enabling realtime CC), 24 buttons, and a virtually ‘lockable’ four-axis joystick (assignable to a wide range of modulation destinations) provide direct tactile control over all crucial parameters for instant sound adjustments and changes, ably aided by a large 1.54-inch OLED display for instant visual feedback at all times. And all attractively presented in a compact — 55.5 cm/21.9” (L) x 30 cm/11.8” (W) x 10 cm/3.9” — form factor, flexibility and portability guaranteed. Glide/portamento (with both legato and staccato mode), and multiple — Mono, Poly, Unison (2, 4, and 8), and Stack (2 and 4) — keyboard modes are also at hand, as is stereo Width voice control. Readily reshaping sounds is also achievable using COBALT8’s three phenomenally powerful, independent, and user- configurable DSP-driven effects engines (FX1, FX2, and FX3), in-depth programming provided. Polish to suit with 11 available algorithms adding character and depth — namely, Chorus, Flanger (Pos), Flanger (Neg), LoFi, Ping-Pong Delay, Phaser, Reverb, Rotary, Stereo Delay, Tremolo, and X-Over Delay. COBALT8’s capacity for storing patches, sequences, and effects creations is outstanding. Out of the box, 300 of the total 500 patches are filled with factory creations, carefully programmed by some of the most accomplished sound designers in the world, with eight ‘Quick Recall’ slots always accessible from the front panel for fast loading of favourite patches. Performance enhancements continue with 100 sequences that can be linked to any patch for fast loading of arrangements alongside 100 customised effects configurations. Thanks to two (Right and Left Mono) unbalanced 6.3 mm (1/4”) TS audio outputs, a 6.3 mm (1/4”) stereo Headphones output, a 3.5 mm (1/8”) stereo Audio In (with an ability to route incoming audio through the effects), 6.3 mm (1/4”) Expression and Sustain pedal connections, 3.5 mm (1/8”) analogue clock Sync In and Sync Out connections (configured to the Teenage Engineering/Korg specification), MIDI In and MIDI Out DIN connections, and also a class-compliant USB MIDI connection to a host tablet or computer, COBALT8 is a perfect fit for any live performance or studio setup. Saying that, the free MODALapp brings the comfort of screen-based editing on a computer or mobile device to COBALT8 (and all other Modal Electronics hardware). Available as a standalone app for macOS (10.10 or above), Windows (8 or above), iOS (12 or above), iPadOS (13 or above), and Android (6 or above), and also in VST3/AU macOS (10.10 or above) and VST3 Windows (8 or above) plug-in formats for keeping users in the flow while producing music with any compatible DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) software, it is the perfect companion for synth enthusiasts looking to dive deep into all sound forming and performance parameters to create their own signature sounds, and to backup and manage patches and sequences. Musically meeting the requirements of next-generation electronic musicians, synth aficionados, and producers alike, COBALT8 is, indeed, an immensely powerful, eight-voice extended VA synthesiser with which Modal Electronics has creatively kickstarted a new synthesiser series.
COBALT8 will soon be shipping and available through selected Modal Electronics dealers worldwide in November 2020 with an RRP (Recommended Retail Price) of £579.99 GBP (including VAT), MSRP (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price) of €649.99 EUR (including 20% VAT), and a MAP (Minimum Advertised Price) of $749.99 USD.
Empirical Labs announces availability of its BIG FrEQTMplug-in, partially extrapolated from its Lil FrEQ hardware LAKE HIAWATHA, NJ, USA: having hitherto made available an earlier version for prerelease, professional audio signal processing equipment designer and manufacturer/plug-ins producer Empirical Labs Inc. (ELI) is proud to announce availability of BIG FrEQ 1.0 — the full release version of its first EQ plug-in, partially extrapolated from its much-loved Lil FreQ hardware EQ (that takes a somewhat unusual approach to the task at hand by combining most of the sound-sculpting tools an engineer needs into a compact single rack space box), but expanded upon in terms of available sections and features — as of October 14… With no fewer than 12 powerful sections of processing to its appropriate appellation, BIG FrEQ should single-handedly handle all tonal and spectral-shaping needs for single tracks, as well as busses, including use as a versatile mastering tool. As always, ELI itself strives to bring new functionality and creative twists to plug-in EQs with its first such release, having labored long and hard over making it easy to learn and plain fun to use. But best of all, BIG FrEQ is immensely useful, obviously, offering the ability to create modern ‘flat-top’ EQ curves with an analog workflow and added controls for more tone-shaping possibilities than a typical EQ plug-in. Put it this way: each of the six parametric bands has an additional SLOPE control that allows for flattening out the EQ shape and grabbing more frequencies equally, while switching on the focus (F) function lets users fine tune frequency adjustment — centring the selected frequency and reducing the range of the FREQ (frequency) knob — to hear exactly what frequencies are being affected with the simultaneously switchable solo (S) buttons available on each parametric band. Elsewhere, each parametric section’s GAIN knob can be expanded from ±15dB to ±30dB with the range (R) button, while parametric section settings can uniquely be copied and pasted from one to another for quickly moving and duplicating bands, facilitating faster operation. On top of that, the unique FINISHER section adds warmth to any track with organic saturation and provides for up to 8x oversampling (tested up to 768 kHz operation). Other features are also well worth highlighting: Hi Pass and Lo Pass filters with adjustable Q and selectable filter orders from 6dB to 96dB (per octave); Lo Shelf — smooth bass boost or cut, centered around 120 Hz — and complimentary Hi Shelf controls; WIDTH slider — controls bandwidth or, inversely, Q; and master PHASE switch — inverts the phase of the audio. Additionally, a modern spectral display shows cumulative EQ shape as well as colored individual bands, while the built-in preset management system (with proprietary preset format for cross-DAW preset access), smooth automation of all parameters, available direct entry for all parameters (by double-clicking on any parameter to type in a value), un-linkable stereo version for dual mono operation, and an ability to bypass any section (to monitor changes and free up processing) rounds out BIG FrEQ’s fattened features. Following in the footsteps of ArouserTM— ELI’s first foray into the software arena as the only Distressor-derived compressor plug-in, produced by the creators of the award-winning hardware Distressor itself, BIG FrEQ is another fine example of how the professional audio signal processing equipment designer and manufacturer/plug-ins producer brings the quality of its hardware to its software products and continues to offer things that cannot be done in the hardware realm to in-the-box mixing. Making room in any plug-in collection for BIG FrEQ is to see and hear what it can do when single-handedly handling all tonal and spectral shaping needs for single tracks, as well as busses, including use as a versatile mastering tool. BIG FrEQ is available for purchase as an AAX-, AU-, and VST3-supporting 64-bit effect plug-in for macOS (10.7 or higher) and AAX- and VST3-supporting 64-bit effect plug-in for Windows (7 or higher) for a time-limited introductory promo price of $129.00 USD for the first 30 days — rising thereafter to an MSRP (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price) of $149.00 USD — directly from ELI’s online Shop here: https://store.empiricallabs.com/big-freq-p/bf1-rtl.htm A fully-functional, 15-day trial of BIG FrEQ is available to download from here: https://www.empiricallabs.com/downloads/ An iLok 2 or iLok 3 USB dongle is required for activating both the demo and full versions of BIG FrEQ. For more in-depth information, please visit ELI’s dedicated BIG FrEQ webpage here: https://www.empiricallabs.com/big-freq/
Modbap Modular enters Eurorack market with powerful Per4mer quad performance effects module inauguration LOS ANGELES, CA, USA: Eurorack modular synthesizers and instruments developer Modbap Modular by BeatPPL is proud to introduce Per4mer — perfectly portraying its inaugural offering as a 14HP quad performance effects Eurorack module inspired by beat-maker/DJ performance styles, and available to preorder — as of October 10… The basic principle behind Per4mer is immediately apparent in its easy-to-follow front panel, packing a creative knockout punch in a compact (14HP) stereo effects-enabling Eurorack module form factor — feed in an audio input to then trigger on-the-fly effects, bringing DJ- style live improvisation to a modular environment. Effects can be triggered simultaneously or individually, where an inspiring effect palette combines to generate uniquely unconventional beats and melodies. Per4mer puts a Doppler-style DELAY, lush REVERB, GLITCH (beat repeat), and TAPE STOP effects easily at anyone’s fingertips for triggering via four dedicated translucent mini-arcade buttons — buttons that can be manually operated or triggered from the four external gate inputs. Each effect has a set of four effects parameters that can be controlled using the four (FX 1, FX 2, FX 3, and FX 4) rotary knobs or by the four CV (control voltage) inputs. COMP (compression) with SIDE CHAIN input and COLOR processing effects are also available, along with CLOCK input and TAP tempo options. Obviously, external side chain and clock can be connected to interface with other modular and electronic music gear. “Per4mer acts like a bridge between hip-hop and Eurorack.” So says Modbap Modular Designer and Founder Corry Banks. As a writer, emcee, producer, hip-hop artist (Phashara), and IT pro, he should surely know! “It packs in concepts familiar to lo-fi and beat-making circles, but it brings something fresh to Eurorack,” continues Corry Banks, before adding: “I think Per4mer will be a great entry point to modular synthesis for the modular-curious beat-maker — throw it into a small pod and use it like a standalone performance effects unit or rack it up with other modules to liven things up a bit.” But best of all, Per4mer’s four performance effects — influencing its notable nomenclature, clearly — can be momentarily engaged or latched individually or simultaneously. Each effect has four tweak-able parameters associated with the four rotary knobs, duly designed for facilitating live improvisation with endless one-off, on-the-fly sounds and rhythmic dynamics. All audio inputs (INPUT L and INPUT R) are provided as mono connections, paired for stereo. Subsequently, Per4mer not only delivers a series of excellent effects and sound design possibilities, but it also allows the creative, classic, tried-and-tested techniques used by beat-makers and DJs to be applied to the wonderful world of Eurorack modular, especially enhanced by manual performance. Digging deeper, the compressor allows for control over four compression (Threshold, Ratio, Attack, and Release) parameters via the four rotary knobs. Catering perfectly to those users craving the classic ducking sound of side chaining, the compressor also features selectable side chain detection that allows side chain activation via ‘sidechain input’, ‘audio input’, ‘clock input’, or ‘tap tempo’. The COLOR processor features four color presets bringing texture and character to the signal path, pre effects — namely, Classic (12-bit), LoFi (8-bit), Saturation, and Wax (vinyl simulation). Such presets can be used in combination with the performance effects and compressor for a more characterful result. Reasons Corry Banks, eventually ending on a high note: “The COLOR processor is the special sauce built into Per4mer. It adds so much mojo and attitude. I lose time just enjoying processing audio through it and creating soundscapes to sample. Per4mer is a dope sound design tool as much as it is a dope performance effects module!”
Per4mer is now available to preorder at a retail price of $399.00 USD directly from Modbap Modular’s online Shop (https://modbap.com/shop/) and expected to start shipping in November 2020. For more in-depth information, please visit the dedicated Per4mer webpage here: https://www.modbap.com/product/per4mer/ See and hear Modbap Modular Designer and Founder Corry Banks introducing Per4mer here: https://youtu.be/UJFmw4qRMe8
Black Lion Audio announces availability of British-style B173 mkII and American-style B12A mkIII portable preamps CHICAGO, ILLINOIS, USA: boutique audio company Black Lion Audio is proud to announce availability of the B173 mkII and B12A mkIII — British-style (1073) and American-style (312A) portable preamps packed into convenient half-rack-sized units, respectively, allowing users to mix and match as they sonically see fit — as of October 1… Simply speaking, Black Lion Audio’s B173 mkII is the most portable 1073 ‘British sound’ around! As such, it uses the same Cinemag input and output transformers that are found in the company’s ‘full-size’ B173 Quad mic preamp to duly deliver a whopping 70dB of gain, alongside a revamped gain stage and a lower noise floor for a cleaner, lower distortion sound. Sonically, the front panel-positioned Hi-Z IN (high impedance input) brings a harmonically rich tone to guitars, keyboards, and synthesizers, while the stepped input 1073-style GAIN and variable OUTPUT LEVEL attenuation knobs allow for flawless control over transformer saturation. 48V phantom power and phase inverse controls round out the front panel with self-explanatory XLR IN (input) and TRS OUT (output) connections literally bringing up the rear. Representing the most portable 312A ‘American sound’ around, Black Lion Audio’s B12A mkIII uses the same Cinemag input and output transformers that are found in the company’s ‘full-size’ B12A Quad preamp to duly deliver a whopping 70dB of gain — just like its B173 mkII half-rack-sized sibling. Similarly, the front panel- positioned Hi-Z IN input also brings a harmonically rich tone to guitars, keyboards, and synthesizers, while the stepped 312A-style input GAIN control allows for perfect recall. Remaining on the front panel, there are also 48V phantom power and phase inverse controls, plus an 18dB PAD, while the B12A mkIII’s rear panel-positioned XLR IN and TRS OUT connections mirror those found on the B173 mkII.
The B173 mkII is available to purchase through Black Lion Audio’s growing global network of dealers/distributors (https://www.blacklionaudio.com/dealers) with a MAP (Minimum Advertised Price) of $449.00 USD and an SSP (Suggested Selling Price) of €449.00 EUR (including VAT). For more in-depth information, please visit its dedicated webpage here: https://www.blacklionaudio.com/store/products/mic-pres/b173-mk2/
Plugin Alliance announces availability of ADPTR AUDIO Streamliner, making masters ready for streaming “I love being able to see at a glance what my dynamic range and loudness levels are in a clear, easy-to-read format, and the ability to audition lossy audio formats and reference all the major streaming platforms is a must nowadays. For all aspiring mastering engineers, the target levels and dynamic ranges — with well-known presets — are gonna be a game changer!” – GRAMMY® Award-winning mastering engineer Glenn Schick (Future, J. Cole, Missy Elliot), 2020 SANTA CRUZ, CA, USA: Plugin Alliance, supporting all major plugin formats and uniting some of the best-known international audio companies under one virtual roof, is proud to announce availability of ADPTR AUDIO Streamliner — a perfectly positioned plugin that eliminates guesswork and allows anyone to finally find out how their masters will sound on all the major streaming services — as of October 7…
ADPTR AUDIO Streamliner’s simple and comprehensive codec auditioning feature allows anyone to easily preview audio through the very same algorithms used by Apple Music, Spotify, Tidal, YouTube, and many more streaming platforms besides. But the plugin itself does much more than simply let its users quickly hear how audio will sound through streaming and download codecs. Indeed, it also serves as an intuitive and powerful metering suite, combining state-of-the-art meters for LOUDNESS, DYNAMIC RANGE, and TRUE PEAK levels — complete with Target levels. Additional features well worth highlighting here include loading, comparing, and level-matching reference tracks using ADPTR AUDIO Streamliner’s integrated A B REFERENCE switching system, as well as instantly exporting tracks at all the bitrates used by each major platform so users — and clients — can preview them on a variety of listening systems. Comprehensive codec selection is instantly available, including those used by Apple Music, Bandcamp, Beatport Pro, Deezer, Facebook Video, Gaana, Instagram, Mixcloud, Napster, Pandora, Primephonic, Soundcloud, Spotify, Tidal, Twitch, and YouTube Music — hear how mixes will sound to end listeners and discover how much loudness normalization will affect a master when it is featured in playlists alongside other tracks with ADPTR AUDIO Streamliner, a perfectly positioned plugin that eliminates guesswork and allows anyone to finally find out how their masters will sound on all the major streaming services. ADPTR AUDIO Streamliner is available for purchase (as an AAX AudioSuite-, AAX Native-, AU-, VST2-, and VST3-supporting effect plugin for macOS 10.9 through 10.15 and Windows 7 through 10) at an attractive introductory price of $169.99 USD until November 1, 2020 — rising thereafter to an MSRP (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price) of $199.00 USD — from here: https://www.plugin-alliance.com/en/products/adptr_streamliner.html
Moog Music’s new Dark Series design for their popular Matriarch and Grandmother analog synthesizers pays tribute to the timeless aesthetic of legacy Moog modular systems. The instruments are now available worldwide. Plus, Moog debuts the first protective cases custom made for Matriarch and Grandmother.Asheville, NC, September 24, 2020 —
Today, Moog Music announced a new addition to its line of semi-modular keyboard synthesizers. Dark Series for Matriarch and Grandmother strikes the perfect balance between classic and modern, featuring an all-black aesthetic that invokes the timeless look of early Moog modular systems—with all the functionality and versatility these two state-of-the-art sound design machines are known for.The new visual twist for Grandmother and Matriarch is a nod to the modular control panel designs that inspired their very creation. In 2018, when the first of these two patchable analog keyboard synthesizers was introduced, Moog explained that “Grandmother’s circuits, spirit, and spring reverb are inspired by the classic Moog modular synthesizers designed by Bob Moog during the 60s and 70s.” The instrument quickly became a staple in studio setups and live performance settings, a go-to first synthesizer for beginners, and a multifaceted creative tool for musicians of all skill levels to explore. Following Grandmother’s success, Moog developed an even more expansive, expressive semi-modular analog keyboard synthesizer: the four-note paraphonic Matriarch.A complement to the distinct multi-colored artwork of the original Matriarch and Grandmother synthesizers, Dark Series presents a style option that celebrates the intersection of tradition and innovation. To learn more about these instruments and locate a Moog authorized dealer, visit moogmusic.com.VIDEO: Lisa Bella Donna | The Mothership II: Night FlightAs a sequel to her mind-expanding video The Mothership, sonic sorceress Lisa Bella Donna modifies her setup to unleash the vast potential of the complete five-member Moog semi-modular family for the first time. Witness her first encounter with the new Dark Series Matriarch and Grandmother synthesizers alongside their keyless counterparts: Mother-32, DFAM, and Subharmonicon.
WATCH VIDEO HERENew Patches & Firmware UpdateNew exploratory patches are now available to download for Matriarch and Grandmother registered owners. These 30 patches (16 for Grandmother and 14 for Matriarch) are designed to guide your eternal experimentation and open your mind to each instrument’s unparalleled analog sound. Visit moogmusic.com/register to access the latest patch sheets right in your account.Along with the inspiring new patch ideas, firmware v1.2.0 for Matriarch and v1.1.0 for Grandmother are now available for both versions of the instruments (original edition and Dark Series). The updates feature a new sync engine that keeps the internal arp/sequencer, analog clock, and MIDI all tightly locked in phase; a new easy method to reset global settings to defaults; a new Envelope Multi-Trig mode for Grandmother; and many other firmware enhancements, new features, and bug fixes based on customer feedback for both instruments.
Visit moogmusic.com/register to access the latest firmware and explore the added features for your Grandmother or Matriarch.Matriarch & Grandmother Protective SR Series CasesAlong with the new look for Matriarch and Grandmother, the Asheville-based synthesizer company unveiled Moog SR Series Cases, which are now available to pre-order for both instruments.See Moog SR Series Case for Matriarch here.See Moog SR Series Case for Grandmother here.Developed with artists for artists, Moog SR Series Cases were meticulously designed based on conversations with musicians to protect these two instruments better than any other offering on the market. These durable, weather-resistant protective cases ensure that your Moog Grandmother or Matriarch synthesizer (original colorway or Dark Series) are safeguarded at home, in the studio, and away. Featuring generous padding around a semi-rigid ABS shell, water-resistant zippers, non-slip straps, and ample storage, Moog SR Series Cases offer complete protection, comfort, and convenience—so that you can continue to create with your favorite synths for years to come.Moog SR Series Cases will begin shipping in October 2020.LEARN MORE HERE
