Tag Archives: Moog

New Design for Moog’s Semi-Modular Keyboard Synthesizers Harkens Back to the Classics

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TWIN DARK MOOG

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

The Creators of PATCH & TWEAK Team up with Moog Music for New 200-Page Book on Semi-Modular Analog Synthesizers

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The Creators of PATCH & TWEAK Team up with Moog Music for New 200-Page Book on Semi-Modular Analog Synthesizers
PATCH & TWEAK with Moog is now available for pre-order worldwide.Asheville, NC, September 15, 2020 — PATCH & TWEAK with Moog is the ultimate resource for Moog synthesizer enthusiasts and musicians of all skill levels interested in an immersive modular synthesis experience. Author, designer, and electronic musician Kim Bjørn has inspired thousands to explore the world of modular synthesis with his 2018 release of PATCH & TWEAK. This fall, Bjørn and legendary synthesizer company Moog Music invite readers on a new journey of discovering a deeper understanding of electronic sound.The forthcoming release of PATCH & TWEAK with Moog is the result of more than a year of extensive collaboration with electronic music icons, established and emerging artists, and Moog employee-owners. Opening with a foreword from acclaimed film score composer and sound designer Hans Zimmer, this hardcover book features 200 pages full of synthesizer techniques, creative patch ideas, sound design tips, professional artist interviews, in-depth discussions with Moog engineers, and a glimpse into Moog’s remarkable history. Readers will get an inside look into the Moog factory in Asheville, North Carolina, where these iconic instruments are built by hand, and learn about the modular synthesis innovator who started it all: Dr. Bob Moog.


What Readers Can Expect to DiscoverThroughout PATCH & TWEAK with Moog’s 200 pages, readers will explore more than 100 tips, ideas, and patches to use as creative inspiration, ensuring artists of any skill level can experience the joy of analog synthesis.●      Introduction to modular synthesis concepts●      Specific overviews, tips, and techniques for each Moog semi-modular instrument●      Expanded options for more advanced modular users●      Ideas for integration with external gear and Eurorack modules●      Interviews, patches, and tips from artists and composers●      Insider interviews with Moog engineers●      The history of Bob Moog, Moog Music, and the many Moog synthesizers Click here for a sneak peek of PATCH & TWEAK with Moog.Meet the Moog Semi-Modular FamilyPATCH & TWEAK with Moog focuses exclusively on Moog’s well-loved line of semi-modular analog synthesizers: Mother-32, DFAM, Subharmonicon,Grandmother, and Matriarch. These modern electronic instruments, each unique in sonic character and functionality, are inspired by the original analog circuitry of the very first modular synthesizers developed by Bob Moog in the 1960s. The pioneering synth company’s introduction of the Eurorack-compatible Mother-32 in 2015 made it more accessible than ever to explore classic Moog modular sound, helping to spark the modular renaissance. In the five years since, the Moog semi-modular family has expanded to include an instrument designed for percussive pattern creation (DFAM), expressive monophonic and paraphonic keyboard synths (Grandmother and Matriarch), and the new polyrhythmic Subharmonicon. PATCH & TWEAK with Moog captures and celebrates exactly why this collection of instruments is renowned throughout the music industry as quality sound design and performance tools.All of these semi-modular synthesizers are 100% analog, offer users the option to explore with or without patching, and are equally suited for beginner and expert synthesists alike. 

Ordering & AvailabilityPATCH & TWEAK with Moog is now available for pre-order worldwide. Just in time for the holiday season, the book’s official release date is November 6th, 2020. Visit moogmusic.com, your favorite reseller, or bjooks.com to place your pre-order today.More about Kim Bjørn & BJOOKS
BJOOKS is known for the highly acclaimed industry-standard books PUSH TURN MOVE, PATCH & TWEAK, and PEDAL CRUSH. All titles received five-star reviews and have become go-to books within the electronic music scene. Combining high-quality design with diverse artist interviews and overviews of gear, these books have earned their place in the hearts, hands, and studios of musicians and producers all over the world.BJOOKS is the boutique publishing company started and run by author, designer, and musician Kim Bjørn after the success of his first international book, PUSH TURN MOVE, in 2017. Following his passion for design, music, technology, and people, Kim created PATCH & TWEAK in 2018 with Chris Meyer of Learning Modular, and this book soon got the label “bible of modular synthesis.”Kim teamed up with brand manager Lars Juhl early on, and the dynamic duo from Denmark has decades of experience in design, publishing, sales, and music creation. Together with collaborators worldwide, the team follows its passion for making beautiful, highly usable, and tangible products in a digital world.The mission of BJOOKS is to continuously create exciting hardcover books about music technology, artists, and makers—to document, inspire, and explore the world of music creation. Learn more here.

Moog announces Sirin synthesizer

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MOOG MUSIC DEBUTS LIMITED EDITION SYNTHESIZER AT LA POP UP
Sound has the power to evoke feelings and images, translating energy from one level of reality to another. Musical experience brings us into contact with these transpersonal realities through the intelligent organization of sound waves. Artistry is in fact the art of translation.ABOUT SIRIN
Sirin is a limited-edition synthesizer module created in celebration of the Moog House of Electronicus Pop-up experience. Based on the legendary Moog Taurus sound engine, and presented in the familiar compact form of the Moog Minitaur–Sirin is the first instrument in Moog’s Taurus family of bass synthesizers designed to generate pitches far above above middle C, with an extended frequency range that reaches notes up to D8. Connect Sirin directly to any MIDI-note controller and immediately access a portable world of powerful analog sound, or hook up to a computer via USB to explore even deeper layers of sound design, where every parameter can be manipulated, automated, and recalled using Sirin’s dedicated Editor Librarian Software (free download for PC and Mac).Secured in a brushed stainless steel enclosure with a retro-inspired color palette, Sirin is an intoxicating conjuror of both quintessential leads and menacing Moog bass. Sirin’s fully-recallable analog sound engine originates with two analog Taurus Bass oscillators that have been re-engineered to soar octaves beyond the traditional boundaries of its mythical ancestors. Sirin’s harmonic transmissions are dynamically shaped and sculpted by a classic Moog Ladder filter operating in consummate harmony with two lightning-fast ADSR envelopes and a multi-wave LFO, offering a wide spectrum of expressive timbral variety and versatility.Sirin integrates seamlessly with modern computer-based production environments via its dedicated Editor Librarian software (available as a free download for registered Sirin owners)–manage patches, automate parameters, unlock 6 additional LFO waveforms, engage Hard Sync, load up to 128 presets into Sirin, access full ADSR envelopes and more as you explore the vast magical realms of analog synthesis.A limited production run of 2500 Sirin are being produced by the employee-owners at the Moog Factory in Asheville, NC–after which no more will be available.Sirin will officially debut at the Moog House of Electronicus Pop-Up in LA’s historic Chinatown. During the week of Jan 24 – 30, Sirin will be available for purchase exclusively at www.mooghouseofelectronicus.com (US only) and on site at the Moog House Of Electronicus Pop-up (712 N Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, 1/24/19-1/30/19), after which, the remaining synthesizers will be distributed world-wide.SIGHT & SOUND
In this video from Moog Music, Nick Sanborn (Sylvan Esso, Made Of Oak) explores the power of sound using Sirin and DFAM analog synthesizers. Sanborn weaves multiplexed patterns of sound waves–translating the thoughts and feelings of the collective individual into a shared musical experience.With the exception of the DFAM’s percussive analog backbeat, all sounds in this video come from Sirin. Nick Sanborn uses the free downloadable Sirin Editor Librarian software to automate and recall parameter settings as he layers multiple monophonic tracks from Sirin.Sirin is now shipping and all orders placed through the House of Electronicus website will ship within 5-7 business days of order.ABOUT THE MOOG HOUSE OF ELECTRONICUS
The Moog House of Electronicus is a synth-guided exploration of the power of sound, inspired by the Moog Island Of Electronicus; an experimental gathering that took place on the barrier island of Tierre Verde during the 1970s. After Moog missionary David Van Koevering was presented with a vision in a dream, the Island of Electronicus became manifest–a synthesized celebration of peace and love; an electronic happening designed to unite mind, body, and soul in a creative explosion of thought and feeling. Today, the Moog House Of Electronicus continues this legacy by inviting all to trust their curiosity, express their innermost selves, and share in the vast creative force of the collective individual.The Moog House of Electronicus Pop-up is open to the public daily from 12pm – 8pm, Thursday, January 24th – Wednesday, January 30th. Visitors will have the opportunity to get hands on with Moog synths (including Sirin and the new polyphonic Moog One synthesizer), as well as explore the deeper dimensions of sonic experience through interactive sculptural synthesis installations, an immersive audio visualization system, and daily synthesizer workshops led by synthesist Bana Haffar. Workshop space is limited–those in the LA area can sign up at here to reserve a space.

Arturia MatrixBrute (A few videos to quench your curiosity!)

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The Arturia MatrixBrute is an impressive beast. I am here to give it a decent showing so you can better understand what this synth is really capable of. Admittedly this synth has so much potential, simple videos won’t do it justice and I really recommend getting some hands on time with this beast for yourself. Below are some videos I have done (and I plan on doing many more) that show off just what this thing sounds like and can do. Be sure to check out all of these videos and more!

First lets check out a simple Ladder filter comparison.

Now how about we make a patch from scratch 

And now how about a nice long live stream Q and A

and while we are at it how about an interview with the Product designer Glen Darcey

 

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Mode Machines OMF-1 Analog Rack Filter

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The Mode Machines OMF-1 is an analog 19″ rack filter designed for use with a wide variety of sources. the preamp in this unit can handle signals from guitar (instrument level) input all the way up to eurorack modular levels.  Far from just a basic Moog ladder filter clone, the OMF-1 adds a tap for the phase reversible single pole -6 db per octave slope (labeled FIZZ) phase reversible 4 pole -24 dp per octave slope(labeled Smooth), as well as extensiv modulation options. Also included in this circuit is a beautiful sounding overdrive. By sending signal into the filter and adjusting the preamp, you can overload the filter core (indicated by a red LED) to add additional harmonic content to the signal.  The OMF-1 features a side chain input as well as CV and Gate inputs for external filter control. The modulation options are Follower (think Mutron bass filter) Attack Release and Attack Decay settings. the LFO has triangle and square waveforms with a rate control and dedicated depth control as well as the ability to self trigger the envelope (which essentially will act like a complex lfo shape).  clocking in £666.00 direct from the mode machines site, this is an impressive all analog rack mount filter that truly has an impressive character.Take a listen to the video for plenty of sound demonstration. take a look at the Manual here 

Arturia Beatstep Unlocks the Hidden Sub37 in the Moog Sub Phatty

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The Arturia BeatStep is a wonderful little midi controller and Sequencer.

 

When I first purchased it I had the intentions of using it as both a nice little sequencer for my analog synths and other gear.  I also had considered using it as a dedicated controller for my Moog Sub Phatty. Why you ask? Well the Sub Phatty has a plethora of hidden features that must be reached by complicated button presses from the from panel or a VST editor. With the Arturia BeatStep I am able to control all of those functions with direct hands on control just as you can on the Moog Sub37.  In recent videos I have seen people wowed by the Sub37’s wonderful looping envelopes. I often here people wishing for those envelopes on their Sub Phatty… little do they know they already have them! yes thats right the Sub Phatty has those same envelopes just hidden!

I spent some time looking into the Moog Sub Phatty Manual and found all of the Hidden Function MIDI CC#’s and then mapped them directly to a template on the Arturia BeatStep… you can download it here —> Beatstep Template for Sub Phatty Hidden Controls

 

To see it in action, Check the video out.