Monday, June 15, 2026
Home Blog Page 5

Korg Releases One of The Most Recorded Workstations – Free For Nautilus

M1 Nautilus

The introduction of the M1 in 1988 represented a seismic shift in music production. As one of the most recorded workstations of all time, its sound is iconic – whether powering the music scene of the late 80s and 90s or featuring in Beyonce’s 2022 “love letter to the Korg M1” single “Break My Soul”.

Korg UK are excited to bring the sound of this legendary instrument to new and existing owners of Nautilus for free.

The pack includes the full complement of 100 programs, 100 combis, and the original demo songs first seen and heard in M1.

M1 is even more powerful in Nautilus

In addition to being able to play the full content of M1 within Nautilus, it is also possible to take advantage of the huge evolution in technological and musical power it represents:

  • Powerful effects
  • Drum tracks
  • Arpeggiators
  • Smooth Sound Transition
  • Polyphony (M1 had 16 notes!)
  • 16-part combis (M1 had 8)
  • Powerful 32 track audio and MIDI sequencing (M1 had 8 MIDI tracks)
  • Immersive ease of use with real-time controls and colour touch screen
  • Access to 9 other unique sound engines

Available for free from 1st November 2022

http://www.korg.co.uk/m1-for-nautilus

 

Moogerfoogers Are Back: All 7 Pedals Now Available as Powerful Audio Effects Plug-ins

Moogerfoogers

Beginning with Bob Moog’s first instrument designs in the early 1950s, Moog Music’s storied legacy centers on the company’s ability to develop and manufacture some of the world’s best-sounding electronic musical instruments.

Over the last seven decades, Moog’s product catalog has spanned everything from DIY theremin kits and custom large-format modular systems to dynamic polysynths and compact Eurorack-able sound design machines. More recently, the company has brought back some of its most legendary instruments, such as the Model 10 modular system, and introduced professional music apps that have surpassed a million downloads.

This brings us to Moog’s latest venture in reimagining some of its most influential analog instruments of the past for today’s audio production workflow. Enter Moogerfooger Effects Plug-ins. Compatible with all major DAWs across Windows and macOS in AUv2, VST3, or AAX formats, this new software version of Moog’s retired effects pedal collection — used by guitarists and experimental artists ranging from Lou Reed to Thom Yorke, Kim Gordon, Daft Punk, and Thundercat—makes the Moog sound now more accessible than ever.

Visit Moog’s website here.

 

Orba 2 by Artiphon Arrives With New Artist Presets From Taetro & Tom Thum

Orba 2

To celebrate the launch of Orba 2, Artiphon has collaborated with popular YouTuber, producer, and beat maker Taetro, and world-renowned beatboxer Tom Thum to release exclusive sample packs. This is just the start of Artiphon’s collaboration with a diverse and award-winning roster of artists soon to follow, all excited to bring their music into this fan-playable format and expand the possibilities for music creation and inspiration on Orba.

Tom Thum is one of the most prolific beatboxers of our time. He holds the record for the most-watched Ted Talk, which demonstrates his abilities and has reached 35+ Million views on their platform, while he actively shares his vocal range through short-form performances on TikTok. Tom curated a set of his favorite beatbox percussive sounds; his vocal bass stretched and repitched, a rounded vocal tone, and a short blip sound for lead, all for the Orba 2. Tom pushes the boundaries of beatboxing, in the same way Artiphon pushes the boundaries of music making.

At-home producers look to Taetro for musical mentorship, as he shares the best, newest, and coolest gear in the market on his channel. With over 200k subscribers on YouTube, his content includes in-depth tech reviews that enlighten prospective creators, who want to take their beat making to the next level. Taetro’s samples include gentle percussion, weighty bass, and handpan and lyre samples. Check out this behind-the-scenes look at Taetro’s new presets.

“With Orba 2, being able to be out, capturing sounds with the app and nearly instantly turning it into an instrument is empowering because, no matter your relationship with music, being able to do fun sampling things like that is huge,” says Taetro. “It can open up worlds for people, and people can interact with it in the same way they would by picking up a pen and doodling on a sketchpad.”

Additional tastemakers will release samples for Orba 2, transforming music making across genres and expanding the versatility of digital music creation. BPM Create is a mainstay for DJs and producers looking to get high quality music, and will release monthly sample packs for the next six months. Laura Escudé is the world’s first certified Ableton trainer and a music programmer who has toured with Kanye, Ariana Grande, Miguel, and American Idol. French electronic producer Fakear is an artist on CloZee’s record label Odyzey.

Orba 2 is now in stock and available at Artiphon.com, Guitar Center, Musician’s Friend, Perfect Circuit, American Musical Supply, zZounds, Uncommon Goods, and many other retailers around the world. View Artiphon’s Where To Buy page for a complete list.

About Artiphon

Artiphon designs smart instruments for the next billion musicians by combining hardware, software, and shareable content that anyone can play. The company’s electronics products, Orba and INSTRUMENT 1, are award-winning handheld smart instruments that let anyone create music wherever they go. Artiphon’s founder/CEO Mike Butera holds a Ph.D. in Sound Studies, and Artiphon’s investors include Warner Music Group, Shure Microphones, and other industry leaders.

artiphon.com

 

Akai Pro Announce MPK Mini Plus

Akai MPK

Akai Professional, a leading manufacturer of music equipment for performers and producers, announces the MPK Mini Plus MIDI keyboard controller. Featuring an extended 3-octave keybed range, a built-in sequencer, a new I/O interface to connect MIDI and modular synth devices, dedicated Pitch and Modulation wheels, RGB MPC Pads, 360-rotarty knobs, Transport controls and so much more. MPK Mini Plus adds everything the modern music-maker needs for a supercharged workflow and creative process.

The best-selling MPK Mini line of keyboard controllers revolutionized how producers and beat-makers created music with its portability and advanced feature set. The new MPK Mini Plus builds on that legacy with the expanded 37-key velocity-sensitive Gen 2 dynamic keybed. With 3 full octaves, users can perform and create their greatest and most impressive melodic ideas ever. Complementing the dynamic keybed, the onboard polyphonic 2-track Sequencer with Step and Live modes capture new melodic and drum patterns on the fly. Eight notes of polyphony per key step, 16 notes per drum step and an onboard Arpeggiator offer endless creative possibilities.

Eight velocity-sensitive RGB-backlit MPC Drum Pads are the backbone for not only playing dynamic beats and programming drums, but for also assigning program changes and triggering additional CC parameters. Eight assignable 360-rotary knobs offer functionality and control for filters, pan controls, effect parameters, and writing precise automation to add depth and dimension to mixes.

MPK Mini Plus also features intuitive Chord and Scale Modes to help simplify and accurately enhance performances. Chords Mode plays multiple notes and inversions with a single key, and Scales Mode enables the keybed to play notes only in the selected scale. For both modes, many creative options are available along with 15 scale settings.

Senior Akai Professional Product Manager Dan Gill said, “The MPK Mini Plus is an exciting addition to the MPK Mini line, and the advanced features on this new keyboard controller are like nothing else on the market. A built-in sequencer, CV and Gate connectors, Sync inputs and outputs, and eight RGB-backlit MPC Drum Pads are just a few of the advanced features enhancing the workflow and creativity for modern music-makers. From the beginner to the expert, the MPK Mini Plus will be a welcomed addition to anyone’s studio.”

The MPK Mini Plus has dedicated Transport Controls for total integration into any DAW with dedicated Play, Stop, Record, and Locator buttons. With more keys, MPK Mini Plus adds dedicated Pitch Bend and Modulation Wheel con- trollers to help all keyboard performances truly come alive. For even more expression, the iconic Joystick from the MPK Mini line offers up to four assignable parameters to its X/Y axis for morphing effects and creating interesting textures in music productions.

The MPK Mini Plus offers advanced connectivity with Class-Compliant USB and 5-pin MIDI devices along with CV/Gate connectors and Sync I/O to trigger and control Euro-racks and other modular synths. A classic Sustain input also adds valuable functionality for any keyboard performance. MPK Mini Plus also works with popular DAWs, featuring dedicated mappings for streamlined and efficient creative workflows that incorporate the 8 Assignable Knobs, Transport Section, Clock Sync, and more. MPK Mini Plus integrates seamlessly with a wide range of external gear and is perfect for the expanding studio.

Software Bundle Included

The included MPC Beats DAW for Mac and PC is based on the iconic MPC hardware workflow with sampling and sequencing that revolutionized groove-based music production. Thousands of plugin instrument presets, drum samples, and loops, offer everything needed for modern music creation. Additionally, an impressive VSTi collection featuring Mini Grand, Hybrid and Velvet offers an incredibly versatile sound palate from shimmering piano tones to the thickest of synthesizer sounds.

Key Features

  • 37 Gen 2 Dynamic Keys
  • Built-in 2-Track Step Sequencer
  • 8 RGB-backlit MPC Pads
  • Assignable X/Y Joystick
  • (3) 1/8” (3.5mm) CV Outputs
  • (2) 1/8” (3.5mm) CV Clock In/Out
  • (2) MIDI DIN In/Out Ports
  • Chord and Scale Modes
  • Sustain Input
  • Transport Control Section
  • Dedicated Pitch Bend & Modulation Wheels
  • Includes MPC Beats Desktop Software

Launch Info

MPK Mini Plus will be available on Thursday Oct 20, 2022 for $169.

To learn more about MPK Mini Plus, visit akaipro.com

 

 

Roland Introduces 50th Anniversary Concept Model Piano and Project D-Flux Drum Kit

Roland
Roland Corporation has announced the launch of their 50th anniversary concept model piano and project D-Flux electronic drums. To further commemorate 50 years of innovation in the musical instruments and electronics space, Roland has also launched corresponding Roland Articles highlighting the history of their electronic drums, pianos, and synthesizers.
Founded in 1972, Roland, a company passionate about expanding the possibilities of music, has leveraged the latest technologies in each era to create a variety of electronic instruments that have consistently transformed music. Electronic drums, pianos, and synthesizers have since grown into the core categories of Roland’s business, used by everyone from professional musicians to amateur enthusiasts. In celebration of the 50th anniversary, Roland has created concept models that highlight the past and the future, truly representing Roland’s roots and transformation. Each of the new Roland Articles introduces an anniversary concept model and features stories that spotlight the history and development of Roland’s products and how they have shaped music over the years.
Electronic Drums 
Throughout Roland’s 50 years of innovating music technology, Roland has remained passionate about the development and potential of electronic drums. In 1985, Roland transformed the world of drum and percussion with the release of the α (Alpha) Drum, one of the first electronic drum kits to adopt digital PCM waveform synthesis to achieve realistic sound. In 1992, Roland followed with the release of the Compact Drum System, fulfilling the desire of drummers to play drums at home. And finally, the notable V-Drums series with its innovative mesh heads, designed to achieve performances comparable to traditional acoustic drums, has consistently evolved since the line debuted in 1997.
The Roland 50th anniversary concept model electronic drum kit, project D-Flux, was designed to reimagine the modern drum. With the newly developed D-Flux pads, which inherit the geometric shape of the Alpha Drum, multiple tones can be assigned to a single pad to express a variety of drum sounds. For the bass drum, Roland developed a unique belt kick feature with two beaters and two belts, replacing the conventional drumhead to achieve a dynamic bass drum performance.
Redefining Rhythm: A History of Roland Drums 
Digital Piano
Since the company’s inception, Roland has always pursued the most promising electronic technologies to reinvent the experience of playing acoustic piano while honoring the beautiful sounds and history of the instrument. Since the release of Japan’s first electronic pianos, the EP-10 and EP-20, in 1973, and the world’s first touch-sensitive electronic piano, the EP-30 (1974), the RD-1000 (1986), Roland has continuously worked to transform the space. Additional innovations including the V-Piano (2009), the Kiyola (2015), jointly developed with the Japanese furniture maker Karimoku, and the Facet Grand Piano (2020), the Grand Prize-winning design searching for the piano of the future showcases how Roland has continued to innovate electronic pianos over decades.
Roland carries on this inherent tradition of innovation today with the release of the 50th Anniversary Concept Model Piano, equipped with Roland’s latest sound system and tones alongside Roland’s most legendary piano sounds and expression while featuring a keyboard touch more natural and responsive than ever before. The concept piano’s one-piece molded wooden body, also designed in collaboration with Karimoku, was inspired by the fusion of the past and the future, while its rigid body, incorporating Japanese oak wood, provides faithfully resonant piano tones from the speakers.
The Future Never Ends: The History of Roland Pianos
Synthesizer
It is no exaggeration to say that the history of Roland is the history of synthesizers. The company’s first domestic synthesizer, the SH-1000, was introduced in 1973 soon after the company was founded. After the JUPITER-4 (1978), with 4-note polyphony and an arpeggiator, the JUPITER-8 (1981) was introduced, with its 8-note polyphony and its unique blend of soft and warm sounds that won the hearts of many professional musicians and has had a major influence on the direction of Roland’s synthesizers ever since. In 2019, Roland introduced the JUPITER-X Series, featuring the ingenious ZEN-Core Synthesis System. With a design reminiscent of the retro JUPITER-8, the JUPITER-X series has gained the support of many synthesizer fans as a flagship model equipped with numerous Roland synth engines, from previous generations to the latest models.
The JUPITER-X 50th Anniversary Model, announced in May, is a concept model with an intrepid design featuring a black keyboard with gold accents and is attracting attention at events around the world.
JUPITER: King of the Polysynths
Availability & Pricing 
The 50th anniversary concept models are not for sale.
To learn more, visit Roland.com.
About Roland Corporation 
For 50 years, Roland’s innovative electronic musical instruments and multimedia products have fueled inspiration in artists and creators around the world. Embraced by hobbyists and professionals alike, the company’s trendsetting gear spans multiple categories, from pianos, synthesizers, guitar products, and electronic percussion to DJ controllers, audio/video solutions, livestreaming products, and more. As technology evolves, Roland continues to lead the way for gigging musicians, producers, and beatmakers, providing modern software-based solutions and seamless creative workflows between hardware products, computers, and mobile devices. For more information, visit Roland.com or see your local Roland dealer. Follow us on Facebook, on Twitter (@RolandGlobal), and on Instagram (@RolandGlobal).

New Powered Eurorack Cases and Semi-Modular Synth Accessories from Moog

Moog Music have released an assortment of new accessories for current synth owners and those interested in getting into Eurorack for the first time. Now available at Moog dealers worldwide.

Moog Powered Eurorack Cases (60HP & 104HP)

Moog Eurorack

Moog’s new Powered Eurorack Case, available in both 60HP and 104HP formats, invites modular artists to expand their setups and serves as the perfect jumping-off point for anyone interested in constructing their very first Eurorack system.

The intuitive plug-and-play unit features 10 Eurorack-compatible 16-pin power connectors and is designed for low-noise performance, high efficiency, and convenient input voltage compatibility. Mount your modules perfectly every time with the included sliding nuts and mounting screws. Once assembled, all modules can be turned on or off as a system using the rear-mounted power on/off button.

Featuring a durable aluminum case with wood sides, the Moog Powered Eurorack Case offers a versatile solution for expanding your setup of Moog’s semi-modular family of synthesizers (Mother-32, DFAM, Subharmonicon, Mavis) and the case’s angled extrusion mounts into Moog 2-Tier, 3-Tier, and 4-Tier Rack Kits. The 60HP case allows for easy expansion of Mavis alongside smaller Eurorack modules, while the 104HP option perfectly fits Mavis plus one Mother-32, DFAM, or Subharmonicon.

Learn more about Moog Powered Eurorack Cases here.

Dust Covers for Matriarch, Grandmother & More

Moog Eurorack

Moog’s latest dust covers are designed specifically to protect Matriarch, Grandmother, two-tier setups, and three-tier setups, made with high-quality materials and features customized for these instruments and configurations.

Protective coverings are essential for keeping these coveted semi-modular synths safe when not in use.

Each water-repellant dust cover is made from rugged Ballistic Cordura to safeguard gear from dust, spills, and other studio (and stage) mishaps, while the ultra-soft interior remains gentle against the instrument. This protective covering is custom fit with room to accommodate patch cabling and rear I/O panel access.

Learn more about Moog semi-modular dust covers here.

Available at Dealers Worldwide

Moog Powered Eurorack Cases and dust covers for owners of Moog semi-modular synthesizers are now available through authorized dealers worldwide. To locate a dealer near you, visit our dealer locator or contact our team directly at sales@moogmusic.com.

Modal Electronics COBALT8 Firmware v2 – Now Available

Modal Electronics COBALT8 Firmware v2 – Now Available

Modal Electronics, a leading global synthesiser manufacturer, has just released an all-new firmware update for their feature-packed COBALT8-Series synthesisers. COBALT8-Series firmware v2 redefines the sound and functionality of Modal Electronics’ extended virtual-analogue synths by adding various new forward-thinking features to inspire the creativity of musicians, producers and sound designers.

New in Firmware v2

With the brand-new Vintage parameter and Oscillator Free Run, COBALT8 adds more vintage and classic synth capabilities. The Vintage setting alters the organic fabric of the advanced virtual-analogue algorithms by emulating the behaviour of vintage synths’ technical imperfections, where certain tuning and other variations were introduced into the sound generation. Oscillator Free Run is a feature known from analogue synthesisers and, when activated, adds to the sonic flexibility of COBALT8. ‘Classic’ Synth sounds are so much more alive with the vintage, and free run parameters ensuring every key press is slightly different than the one before.

A whopping 27 new filter types increase the already impressive arsenal for creative sound design with COBALT8 Firmware v2. The list includes 2-Pole State Variable Filters, various Lowpass, Bandpass and Highpass Ladder Filters with drive, combinations of traditional filter types with Notch characteristics, and much more. The new filters unlock even more classic synth tones and expand COBALT8’s experimental capabilities with the more complex filter outputs to create sounds that no one could imagine before. For all new filter types featuring Drive, the Morph control allows for dialling in the right filter drive amount to taste.

The new Cutoff Scaling patch parameter unlocks improved filter cutoff behaviour with three distinctive modes to increase creative performance and sound design options.

Note-to-Cutoff Scaling can now track with full accuracy in one of two new modes; Relative, and Bipolar. These modes can be tailored to match your preferences on a per-patch basis. The original note-to-cutoff characteristics remain available in Legacy mode.

Additionally, COBALT8 Firmware v2 includes 14 powerful new effects. Harnessing our flexible processing distribution system, some of the new additions harness the power of two effects slots for more sonic power and depth. The V2 Reverb is great for adding a little bit of space to a sound, huge near-infinite reverbs, and everything in-between. Creative sound gourmets will also enjoy the new Phaser v2, Compressor, Three-Band EQ, Unisoniser, Utility and additional Drive effects, giving enough options to give custom patch creations a final, production-ready touch

With the new firmware, the programmable Arpeggiator receives new Arp Directions to inspire musicians and producers. Firmware v3 also improves the capabilities of the OLED display, the Audio In quality, the gain staging of the audio output and much more. For a full list of new Features and Improvements, we recommend the Release Notes, available on the product’s web page.

Firmware v2 is available as a free update via our MODALapp software.

About the COBALT Series 

Building on the tradition of warm and punchy analogue-style synth sounds conceived by legendary synthesisers from the past, COBALT8 unlocks the full creative potential of analogue waveforms. This powerful, inspiring instrument reinvents the aesthetics of analogue sounds and invites musicians, producers and sound designers to explore a new era of virtual-analogue synthesiser textures far beyond the limits of its analogue forefathers.

On top of the innovative oscillator engine of COBALT8, we added a new morphable 4-Pole Ladder Filter. Combined with Modal’s unparalleled modulation options, an inspiring real-time / step sequencer, the energising arpeggiator, the Premium FATAR 37-note keyboard, MPE, studio-quality effects and MODALapp integration, COBALT8 is the perfect synth for everyone who wants a versatile electronic music instrument to play vintage synth sounds and is eager to enter new sound dimensions.

Eight true polyphonic voices tempt players to lay out wide string or rich synth pad chords, while a monophonic bass or lead patch, played with 64 oscillators can shake the walls of every stadium. And with the avant-garde sound forming features, every synth enthusiast can refine his performance with sounds that no other synthesiser is able to generate.

The free MODALapp brings the comfort of screen-based editing of all COBALT8 Series parameters to your computer or mobile device. Available as a standalone app for macOS, Windows, iOS, iPadOS or Android systems and in VST3 and AU plug-in formats, it is the perfect companion for synth enthusiasts looking to deep dive to all sound forming and performance parameters to create their own signature sounds – not to mention a fantastic tool to backup and manage patches and sequences. In tandem with the release of the COBALT8-Series’ v2 firmware, MODALapp has also been updated to v2.8.5 to reflect the latest changes in ARGON8’s synth engine.

The COBALT8 Series are available in 3 models, each tailored to suit your workflow – the COBALT8 37-key variant, the COBALT8X 61-key variant and the COBALT8M desktop module.

www.modalelectronics.com

The Model 10 Modular Synthesizer Returns to Production at the Moog Factory

The Model 10 Modular Synthesizer Returns to Production at the Moog Factory

One of Moog Music’s most beloved legacy instruments, the Model 10 modular synthesizer, is officially back in production at the Moog factory in Asheville, North Carolina. This re-issue of the instrument follows a limited-time production run in 2019 that helped enliven the large-format modular space and introduce these systems to a whole new generation of synthesists.

Today’s Model 10 is a faithful recreation of the first compact modular synthesizer model created by Dr. Bob Moog in 1971, all the way down to its hand-soldered electronic circuits. The fully analog instrument is made up of 11 discrete analog modules, including the 907 Fixed Filter Bank, revered for its vast sound shaping and timbral possibilities, and three 900 Series oscillators, the foundational sound behind works like Wendy Carlos’s Switched-On Bach and Isao Tomita’s Snowflakes Are Dancing.

The predecessor to the Model 15, the Model 10 design focuses on purity of sound, speed, and simplicity while providing the enormous sonic depth and dimension found only in a vintage Moog modular synthesizer.

Learn more about Model 10 here.

Key Features of the 2022 Model 10 Build

The individual modules that make up each new Model 10 are engineered and manufactured just as they were over 50 years ago, using traditional wiring methods. Each module is then tested, finished with an aluminum panel, and placed into a custom cabinet before the instrument leaves for its new home.

Each system is built to order and now includes a host of updates that allow this machine to be more easily integrated into modern studios across the globe.

  • An updated, onboard power supply now supports a broader range of selectable voltages including 100v, 120v, 220v, and 240v. For users outside the US, this allows you to power your synthesizer without the need for an external step up/down transformer.
  • The system’s redesigned rear panel accommodates an updated main power switch, power lamp, power inlet, grounding lug, and voltage selector switch.
  • Model 10 now has improved calibration and tuning reliability, with this current production model holding tighter calibrations with little variance.

The instrument and its contents are packaged with care in preparation for transit anywhere in the world. Model 10 is also internationally recognized as emission, radiation, and safety compliant.

Available at Moog Authorized Dealers Worldwide

A true recreation of the vintage system, Model 10 is built to order using original documentation, art, and circuit board files, with each hand-crafted module securely mounted into a solid wood, Tolex-wrapped cabinet.

This reissue of the Moog Model 10 is crafted with care by employee-owners inside Moog’s single factory in Asheville, North Carolina. Units are now shipping to trusted Moog dealers and distributors within the US and internationally. To find a dealer near you, visit this locator page or contact the Moog Music team directly at sales@moogmusic.com.

GEWA PP-3 Stage Piano – Keys Review

Here’s our review of a GEWA PP-3 Stage Piano, featuring…

  • GEWA Smart Touch keyboard – 88 weighted hammer action keys
  • Smart operation via GEWA Piano Remote App (Android / iOS)
  • Two-way speaker system
  • Simple and modern user interface with 4 freely assignable favourite sounds
  • Sound Library with 15 high resolution sounds
  • Sound generation based on the newest DSP and memory technology
  • Bluetooth Audio + MIDI Function
  • Split/ Layer function with 2 sounds
  • User Calibration Tool for fine-tuning the keyboard behaviour
  • Virtual piano technician to adjust string resonance, pedal resonance, hammer head, half pedal values, una corda, attack and tuning parameters.
  • Metronome and click with pre-selectable rhythms
  • 4 reverb effects, 8 modulation effects
  • 256 polyphonic voices
  • Connections: USB to Host, 3.5mm Aux Input, 6.3mm Soft/Expression Pedal, 6.3mm Sostenuto/Sustain Pedal, 6.3mm Line Out, 6.3mm Headphone jack
  • Optional stand and triple pedal

GEWA Says…“The PP-3 is the first portable piano from GEWA and is based on exactly the same technological basis as the home pianos that are already available on the market for years. Two-way speaker system & high-resolution Hamburg Grand Piano sample

The PP-3 has a two-way speaker system with a total power of 2×20 watts RMS. The proven high-resolution Hamburg Grand Piano Sample can be optimally reproduced via this system. The sample base is the same as for all GEWA digital pianos. No compromises have been made compared to the more expensive models UP365 and UP385.

In addition, the PP-3 has 15 high-resolution sounds, various effects, and flexible split & layer options.”

Find out our thoughts in the video above!!

GEWA PP-3 Stage Piano – UK RRP: £500.00 (approx.) without stand, £560.00 (approx.) with stand

For more info, visit: www.gewamusic.com

————

For more completely impartial, HD video reviews, please subscribe to our YouTube Channel: Keys Review YouTube and click on the bell icon to be notified as soon as each new video is released. You can also follow us on our social media channels:

https://www.facebook.com/KeysReviewUK​​​

https://twitter.com/keys_review​​​

https://www.instagram.com/keysreviewuk

All of Keys Review videos are recorded in a top quality studio with the finest equipment. To get the best from our reviews and really hear the instruments perform be sure to listen on good quality speakers or headphones!

Modal Electronics ARGON8 Firmware v3 supercharges popular Wavetable Synthesisers

Modal Electronics, a leading global synthesiser manufacturer, has just released an all-new firmware update for their critically-acclaimed feature-packed ARGON-Series synthesisers.

Modal Electronics, a leading global synthesiser manufacturer, has just released an all-new firmware update for their critically-acclaimed feature-packed ARGON-Series synthesisers. Never content with a static approach to product development, ARGON-Series firmware v3 redefines the sound and functionality of Modal Electronics’ advanced Wavetable synths and adds a raft of new forward-thinking features that guarantee to supercharge users’ creative output like never before.

New in Firmware v3

The brand-new Vintage parameter helps to alter the organic fabric of the wavetable textures by emulating the behaviour of vintage synths’ technical imperfections, where certain tuning and other variations were introduced into the sound generation. Oscillator Free Run is another new feature known from analogue synthesisers and, when activated, adds to the sonic flexibility of ARGON8. ‘Classic’ Synth sounds are so much more alive with the vintage and free run parameters ensuring every key press is slightly different than the one before.

Firmware v3 adds four new filter types, incl. 4-Pole Ladder Filter, a 1-Pole Ladder Hybrid, a resonant Phaser Ladder Filter and a new 2-Pole Sallen-Key Filter. All new filters come with Pre-Filter drive, and the integrated polesweeping allows seamless morphing through the audio spectrum. The Ladder filter unlocks even more classic synth tones as well as expanding ARGONs experimental capabilities with the more complex filter outputs and the  Sallen-Key filter brings a whole new level and character to gnarly, driven sounds, especially when paired with the Drive FX.

Additionally, ARGON8 Firmware v3 includes 15 new powerful effects. Harnessing our flexible processing distribution system, some of the new additions harnessing the power of two effects slots for more sonic power and depth. The V2 Reverb is great for adding a little bit of space to a sound, huge near-infinite reverbs and everything in-between. The new Chorus v2 was brought from our successful COBALT5S and COBALT8 synths and injects vintage Chorus tones to ARGON8. Creative sound gourmets will also enjoy the new Phaser v2, Compressor, Three-Band EQ, Unisoniser, Utility and additional Drive effects, giving enough options to give custom patch creations a final, production-ready touch.

With the new firmware, the programmable Arpeggiator receives new Arp Directions to inspire musicians and producers. Firmware v3 also improves the capabilities of the OLED display, the Audio In quality, the gain staging of the audio output and much more. For a full list of new Features and Improvements, we recommend the Release Notes, available on the product’s web page.

Finally, Firmware v3 launches with the addition of a dedicated new bank of 100 new factory presets to showcase Firmware v3 in action.

Firmware v3 is available as a free update via our MODALapp software.

About the ARGON Series 

Leaning on the heritage of Modal Electronics’ legendary OO series synthesisers, the ARGON Series are modern wavetable synths for music performers, producers and sound designers. Fusing a transparent and rich sound, an array of real-time controls, MPE support, a clear structured user interface and integrated performance tools, The ARGON Series are a unique collection of instruments designed to deliver an unmatched sonic experience.

The ARGON Series’ sophisticated wavetable engine generates thousands of different sonic combinations with its seamless waveform morphing feature. Explore ambient evolving textures, classic pads and modern chords, brutal basses, dark drones and psychedelic noise textures – this truly is a sound designer’s playground. Process and cross-modulate the waves using either the 32 static wavetable modifiers and unlock additional wavetable variations. With the ARGON Series, virtually every sonic imagination can be realised with ease.

The free MODALapp brings the comfort of screen-based editing of all ARGON Series parameters to your computer or mobile device. Available as a standalone app for macOS, Windows, iOS, iPadOS or Android systems and in VST3 and AU plug-in formats, it is the perfect companion for synth enthusiasts looking to deep dive to all sound forming and performance parameters to create their own signature sounds – not to mention a fantastic tool to backup and manage patches and sequences. In tandem with the release of the ARGON-Series’ v3 firmware, MODALapp has also been updated to v2.8.4 to reflect the latest changes in ARGON8’s synth engine.

The ARGON Series are available in 3 models, each tailored to suit your workflow – the ARGON8 37-key variant, the ARGON8X 61-key variant and the ARGON8M desktop module.

About Modal Electronics

Founded in 2013 and headquartered in Bristol, UK, Modal Electronics is redefining modern synthesiser technology for musicians, producers and performers. Guided by the philosophy to create “Machines for Musicians,” Modal Electronics combines sophisticated analogue and digital circuitry in their products. Synthesisers from Modal Electronics contributed to countless hit records and top movie scores, and are used in recording studios and on live-performance stages around the world. www.modalelectronics.com
1...456...18Page 5 of 18
© Keys Review2026