Signal by Output for Native Instruments Kontakt Review

Posted on May 15, 2015 by flux302

Signal Review

Output, a relatively new content producer has recently been making waves with their well thought out and stunning GUI designs, inventive Kontakt scripting and genuinely evocative sonic content.

Their latest product SIGNAL doesn’t disappoint with its over 40 GB of content and beautifully intuitive interface.

Consisting of 4 “Pulse” engines the user has full control over unique rhythmic layered synthesis.

build in layering of both synthetic sound sources and acoustic recorded sources allow for interesting textures.

the 4 macro controls vary from patch to patch and give quick control of some of the most interesting sonic sculpting features. For those of us that like to dive deeper, there is also an advanced edit mode that gives you full control.

the Rythmic aspect of Signal really sets it apart by giving you complex LFO patterns, a step sequencer per part, Arpegiators, and an interesting Looper effect that lets you loop sections of the sound source to interesting effect.

These rhythms can all be tempo sync’d and utilized to create deep syncopated patterns, Lush evolving textures and even sharp biting leads and basses.

Of course all of this is up to the user, you can turn off these aspects if you just want access to the raw sounds, or you can opt to use any of the beautiful built in effects to sculpt your own sounds.

If you have the Full version of Kontakt you can even import your own sound sources.

Overall I really enjoy this library and it ranks up in the top 5 of my favorite Kontakt libraries.

definitely worth checking out.

SUMMARY

500 Pulse Instruments for instant playability
A massive array of content
40GB including analog synths, digital synths and organic instruments
Up to 4 separate pulses at one time
All pulses lock to tempo
Rhythms: Looper, Step Sequencers, Arpeggiators, LFOs
4 central MACRO sliders unique to each of the 500 Pulse Instruments

Grab it now and get 2 free expansion libraries FREE.

Priced at $199 on sale now from Output‘s website

Modal 008 8 Voice analog Power house!

Posted on April 14, 2015 by flux302

Check it out HERE

008 provides eight discrete voices of polyphony with an uncompromising analogue architecture utilising the highest grade components throughout
Two 100% analogue VCO’s per voice with two sub oscillators, providing sawtooth, triangle, square with PWM and noise. Each of the waveforms can be blended together to provide completely new complex wave shapes
Innovative and extremely flexible 16 multi-mode filter, consisting of traditional modes such as low-pass, band-pass and high-pass as well as more unusual notch, phase and combination modes.
Filter overdrive enables the sound to be driven to sonic extremes
A range of classic analogue polysynth features such as oscillator and filter FM bringing amazing sonic power
Two LFO’s, both capable of reaching audio rates with multiple wave shapes and midi sync
11 modulation sources with unlimited destinations. Each destination can be set it’s own unique depth, a super smooth sample rate of 10kHz and all accessible from the front panel – no menu diving
008 features a range of sequencing options – a built in 2 Track, 12 row, 32 step sequencer with 16 dedicated step time editing knobs on the front panel and MIDI sync capabilities. Sequences can also be transposed dynamically while running
A very highly featured arpeggiator with a wide range of different modes, including ‘hold’ mode, enabling arpeggiator-based sequences to be created
The Modal Electronics Animator, which enables any control parameter on the 008 to be sequenced, enabling very complex filter transisitions, wave form changes and modulation matrix changes to be sequenced
Ethernet port to connect your 008 to your network and enable updates via the internet (no more midi sysex dumps) and access to the Modal Electronics cloud features

Two part multi-timbral (bi timbral) allowing splits across the keyboard or stacks to create amazingly complex sounds
Superb UI, a great departure from the norm of synthesisers, featuring a very high quality 4.3″ screen with wide viewing angle, display is context sensitive where the control parameters of any control knob that is touched by the user, is immediately displayed
Eight ‘quick recall banks’ are accessible directly from the front panel, enabling performing musicians to get rid of their set sheets and build set lists of presets, sequences and animations, all quickly accessible from dedicated front panel buttons. Up to ten banks of quick recalls can be created, making live performance a doddle
Ultra fast (1ms) VCF and VCA envelope generators. VCF-EG is one of the 11 modulation sources that can be freely assigned to any parameter by it’s own unique amount
Four Key Modes – Polyphonic, Monophonic, Unison and Stack
Very high quality construction, uses a premium FATAR semi-weighted five octave key mechanism with aftertouch
All voice control parameters are accessible from a well designed and intuitive front panel, that follows a traditional synthesiser work flow
Combined XLR/TRS sockets for balanced / unbalanced outputs. Further, each of the eight outputs can be brought out individually via a dedicated d-sub socket.
Optional Digital Output board providing multi voice outputs over USB (Class Compliant) with FX available Q2 2015.
Two audio inputs enabling audio processing from the VCF onwards plus external MIDI in and out
XY joystick and Sustain and Expression pedal inputs for performance controls – any control parameter can be assigned to any joystick axis (X+, X-, Y+, Y-) by pressing the dedicated front panel selector button

BRISTOL, UK: breakthrough British electronic musical instruments manufacturer Modal Electronics is proud to present 008, an eight-voice, 16-VCO (Voltage-Controlled Oscillator), and 16-sub-oscillator pure analogue polysynth powerhouse par excellence, representing the third of three new ‘numerical’ products that it is simultaneously showcasing at Musikmesse 2015, April 15-18 in Frankfurt, Germany…

All three of these new synthesisers share the OS (Operating System) common to 002, so speed of development is now rapidly accelerating. Amazingly, within mere months of 002 taking the synth world by storm at the time of its July 2014 launch, then turning heads and opening ears at The NAMM Show 2015, January 22-15, in Anaheim, California, today’s amazing announcement — after all, no other synthesiser manufacturer has delivered such a diverse range of cutting-edge instruments in less than a year — coincides with Modal Electronics experiencing rapid growth, establishing a growing global network of authorised dealers while expanding its home-grown talented team by hiring some of the most brilliant (synth design) minds in the UK.

Continue reading →

Pittsburgh Modular makes modular effects pedals possible!

Posted on April 14, 2015 by flux302

Pittsburgh Modular makes modular effects pedals dream come true at Musikmesse 2015

PITTSBURGH, PA, USA: modern, fully-patchable, modular synthesizers and accessories manufacturer Pittsburgh Modular is proud to launch its Patch Box line of modular effects pedals — redefining both modular synthesis and the venerable stomp box by creating unique patchable effects units for guitarists and keyboardists — at Musikmesse 2015, January 15-18 in Frankfurt, Germany…

In a seismic shift in the definition of what a modular synthesizer can be, Pittsburgh Modular’s Patch Box redefines modular synthesis around the venerable stomp box by creating a monster performance device for guitarists and keyboardists alike — a patchable, modular system designed to handle anything. As a playground for unrestricted creativity, the Patch Box is a fully-patchable, customisable performance pedal enclosure. Its open architecture allows users to create unique effects unattainable with standard, fixed-signal path guitar effects. The Patch Box is not just another empty Eurorack case, however. Rather it can be packed to the gills with the functionality of (up to) five highly-tuned modules integrated into a heavy-duty steel enclosure that’s as road-ready as it is ready to use.

To protect the tone of user instruments, thoughtfully the Patch Box features a true BYPASS and a unique preamp with extremely high headroom in addition to a pair of fully-buffered outputs. Custom-engineered soft-limiting circuitry built into the preamp adds character without unwanted noise at higher gain settings. Said preamp has dual, buffered outputs to allow for complex signal routing, but for patching a single modulation or audio source into two destinations, the patchable signal splitter is a perfect solution. Also known as a MULTIPLE, the signal splitter has one input and two outputs, allowing any signal to be routed to two destinations.

Dual, assignable expression pedal INPUTS allow the Patch Box to easily integrate third-party expression pedals anywhere into the signal path to allow for realtime foot control of any voltage-controllable parameter or split the signal from the foot controller to control two parameters at once. Dual, assignable A/B foot switches — SWITCH 1 and SWITCH 2 — expand signal routing options. Perfect for use as on/off switches or to flip between two signals, the foot switches can be patched up to enable/disable individual modules or route audio and control voltages. Try patching a modulation source, such as an LFO (Low Frequency Oscillator) or external expression pedal, through the foot switch to enable or disable the modulation while playing. Patch the outputs of two effects into one of the foot switches to bounce between effects. With two independent, patchable foot switches to play with, there are countless options for realtime signal routing. The last stage of the Patch Box signal path is a master OUTPUT level control. Adjust the output signal level to connect with a wide range of devices.

Continue reading →

Waldorf Slickly Announces New iOS Drum Synth App!

Posted on April 14, 2015 by flux302

Waldorf CEO

Stefan Stenzel has recently uploaded a track on Soundcloud titled “All I am is Digital”

The Track appears to be the first sonic demo of the NEW Waldorf iOS drum synth app “ATTACK Drums” from the tunes it looks to be very promising. there is also a screenshot of the start up screen similar to NAVE’s start up screen. Here is the description on sound cloud

“Song made entirely in a preliminary version of Waldorf Attack Drums App for iOS. In case you hear vocals, these are synthesised using the built-in Phrase Vocoder – a novel Vocoder that uses written text instead of spoken words as modulator.” … check it out here. https://www.waldorf-music.info/attack-drums-overview

Specifications

24 different sounds
4 independent insert effects with
Delay
EQ
Drive
Phaser
Flanger
Chorus
Phrase Vocoder – a novel vocoder controlled by written text
Algorithmic reverb as send from every single effect channel or directly from sound
Compressor for the output sum
16-step pattern sequencer
Fractional track/step timing
Polyphonic steps
Audiobus support
Inter App Audio support
Core MIDI support
Export song to audio file
Dynamic voice allocation
compatible with iPad 3 (Retina), iPad mini (1,2,3), iPad Air (1,2)
Minimum iOS 7.0 required
Content control via iTunes
Trigger pads
Mixer
Recording
Shipping 2 quarter of 2015

Signal By Output is released

Posted on March 31, 2015 by flux302

Signal by Output

Output, a relative new comer to the virtual instrument market continues to make waves. Today they announced Signal. This is the second product (REV was the first offering from them and was very well received) offering from the new developer and looks to impress.

Signal offers up a compelling way to create pulsing rhythmic sounds while combining fat analog, shimmering digital synths and beautiful acoustic instrument sources. These sources are deeply integrated with powerful sequencing and LFO modulations. All of this is controlled through a clever GUI that is very pleasing on the eyes and inspiring. The macro controls and fast browsing experience looks to really enhance workflow.

I am looking forward to doing a full review on this product in the near future. Until then I’ll hold you over with these gorgeous shots and this nice video

500 Pulse Instruments for instant playability
A massive array of content
40GB including analog synths, digital synths and organic instruments
Up to 4 separate pulses at one time
All pulses lock to tempo
Rhythms: Looper, Step Sequencers, Arpeggiators, LFOs
4 central MACRO sliders unique to each of the 500 Pulse Instruments

Signal is available for $199 NOW

HexInverter.net Midi2CV Eurorack Module keeps Maschine in sync

Posted on March 17, 2015 by flux302

Available as a kit or completed module this sucker is deep with features.check it out at Hexinverter.net

The ACXsynth MIDI2CV Eurorack module is an 8HP, 4 channel CV/Gate interface with a robust feature set you can build yourself!

The original circuit and firmware were designed by the talented Alain Coupel of ACXsynth. His design is used here with permission. Dmitry, a forum member, took it upon himself to update the firmware with a slew of new and exciting features!

FEATURES

12bit DACs with high quality Intersil opamps for great CV accuracy
Monophonic mode offers full control of one voice (mod, pitch wheel, etc.) as well as sequencer control (start/stop, reset, sync)
Split and duophonic modes accessible through advanced features
Sync output emits MIDI clock pulses for driving sequencers
MIDI channel auto-learn at startup means no configuration if only basic functionality is desired

UVI BeatHawk iPad Sequencer/sampler Review

Posted on February 8, 2015 by flux302

The BeatHawk iPad app has been hotly anticipated for some time now. With powerful step sequencing, easy to use sample recording and editing, song arrangement, fx and more. BeatHawk from UVI boasts and intuitive workflow that lends it self greatly to instant hands on creation of beats while on the go or in the studio.

BeatHawk offers full support for CoreMIDI, Inter-App Audio, AudioBus, Audio Copy and WIST allowing you to create with your favorite tools in whatever way you like. Play your tracks with an external MIDI keyboard or sequence them over Wi-Fi from your computer. If you want to wrap up a track in your favorite DAW just export the stems or MIDI files, it couldn’t be simpler.

FEATURES & COMPATIBILITY

Continue reading →

Analogue Solutions ships space-saving real analogue monosynth module with SEM-style filter

Posted on February 8, 2015 by flux302

British ‘boutique’ analogue synthesiser and accessory designer/manufacturer Analogue Solutions is proud to announce availability of its all-new Nyborg-12 — an Oberheim SEM-style 2-Pole 12dB/Octave MULTIMODE FILTER-equipped standalone monophonic synthesiser module with real analogue voice and modulation circuitry

front-flat

An analogue renaissance has ensured that the one-time state-of-the-art sounds of analogue synthesisers have long since become highly sought after again. Why? Well, many musicians realised that the convoluted menu-driven access systems deployed on many ‘modern-day’ digital synthesisers with weaker sounds bathed in built-in effects are no substitute for the hands-on immediacy of having access to a control per function at hand when it comes to speedy sculpting of ear-opening and often powerful electronic sounds suited to a variety of musical genres. With more mainstream recording artists and producers than ever now relying on custom sounds as a result of this rising and renewed interest in analogue (subtractive) synthesis, is it any wonder, then, that yesteryear’s often wonderful-sounding (though not necessarily reliable) analogue classics are rapidly rising in value, pushing them out of reach of many musicians of more meagre means? Meeting this demand head on, more analogue synthesisers than ever before are available today from manufacturers both bigger and smaller. Into this healthy and highly-competitive climate comes Analogue Solutions’ latest analogue offering, the Nyborg-12 SEM synthesiser — so-called on account of its 2-Pole 12dB/Octave MULTIMODE FILTER, the same flexible filter with LP (lowpass), BP (bandpass), HP (high pass), and NOTCH settings that is used on Analogue Solutions’ own Telemark SEM semi-modular synthesiser, similar (though not identical) to Tom Oberheim’s original 1974-vintage SEM (Synthesizer Expander Module®), much sought after itself.

Continue reading →