Monday, June 15, 2026
Home Blog Page 6

Erica Synths Announces LXR Drum Module

Erica Synths Announces LXR Drum Module

Erica Synths announces its new LXR Drum Module, a compact and great-sounding percussion synthesizer based on the sound engine of the LXR-02 drum machine. While retaining the core interface of the LXR-02, this module adds the essential eurorack ingredient – assignable CV control over parameters and many more tweaks in the user interface for better integration in any eurorack system.

Features

  • 6 drum/percussion voices
  • 7 trigger inputs with accents
  • 5 assignable CV inputs
  • 4 assignable outputs
  • 3 voices can be used as basslines due to 1V/oct tuning
  • Over 30 adjustable parameters per voice
  • Insert FX section
  • Kit memory
  • SD card for Kit exchange and easy firmware updates
  • Kits compatible with the LXR-02

The LXR Drum Module will be shipping from September 30th and priced at €420. ​ Please visit the Erica Synths webshop for more information: https://www.ericasynths.lv/shop/eurorack-modules/by-series/drum-series/lxr-drum-module/

About Erica Synths
​Erica Synths team of visionaries, engineers and musicians have been working hard to bring you modules and instruments that will set your modular system apart from mass in terms of how it sounds, looks and functions.

Moog Releases Software Version of Iconic Minimoog Model D Synth, Compatible with All Major DAWs

Moog Releases Software Version of Iconic Minimoog Model D Synth, Compatible with All Major DAWs

Free to all current Minimoog Model D iOS App owners, and just $24.99 for new users, this update to the app makes it easy and affordable for musicians of all levels to harness the legendary sound of the Minimoog Model D inside their favorite DAW. Now available in the App Store.

One of the most celebrated and influential musical instruments of all time, the Minimoog Model D synthesizer, is now available as a powerful production and sound design tool for Mac users in the form ofthe first official Minimoog Model D App for macOS.

The Minimoog Model D App allows users to emulate the sounds and workflows of their favorite musicians and create original tracks within a feature-packed software synth for a limited-time introductory price of $24.99 USD.

This free update to the app, which was first released byMoog Music as a mobile synthesis solution for iPhones/iPads, is available for all Mac users (Big Sur or newer), making it possible to recreate the sounds of the classic hardware Minimoog Model D using a macOS device through Audio Unit v3, using a VST3/AUv2 wrapper, or as a standalone sound design tool. Now optimized for both iOS and macOS, anyone with an Apple device can jump in and play with over 160 included presets or begin exploring electronic sound design to craft their own unique style.

The Minimoog Model D App incorporates a number of inspiring tools and capabilities not present on its analog antecedent. This powerful software synth includes the ability to play chords with up to four-note polyphony, an easy-to-use arpeggiator for rhythmic pattern creation, a real-time looping recorder with unlimited overdubbing capacity, a tempo-synchronizable stereo ping-pong delay module, and the Bender—a wide-range stereo time modulation effect module. This latest update also includes a redesigned preset management system for quicker navigation and adds a random preset generator function.

Start Exploring the Minimoog Model D iOS App

Classic Moog Sound Meets Your Favorite DAW
​Perfect for bedroom producers, studio musicians, professional audio engineers, and beginner synthesists alike, this new offering for macOS allows for seamless integration with Logic, GarageBand, MainStage, Reaper, and through a free VST wrapper in Ableton Live and Cubase for use in studio and live performance environments. The Minimoog Model D App can also be used as a standalone instrument or as an effect in your existing audio chain.

This added universal compatibility is now included in all future downloads of the Minimoog Model D App. If you already own the Minimoog Model D App on your iOS device, no additional purchase or upgrade is required to use the app on your Apple Silicon or Intel based Mac laptop or desktop, and it can be downloaded from your previously purchased items.

Download the Minimoog Model D App Here

More to Explore: Expansion Packs & App Bundles
​To encourage further experimentation with novel sounds and experiences while inside the Minimoog Model D App, users will find 90 new presets available to download and explore. Each of these expansion packs comes with 30 unique presets, ranging from polyphonic “organ” patches and vintage bass tones to sci-fi sounds and soft, pastoral leads.

Today’s release of the Minimoog Model D App for macOS also presents a new bundle option for users new to Moog’s macOS instruments: install both the Minimoog Model D App and the Model 15 Modular Synthesizer App for $49.99. This bundle allows users to experience what it’s like to produce music with two of the most iconic Moog synthesizers of all time–at a fraction of the cost of their hardware counterparts. Learn all about Moog’s Model 15 Modular Synthesizer App here.

No matter where you are on your journey in synthesis, Moog’s software synths make it easy, affordable, and fun to make music from your home, studio, or on the go.

Visit Moog Music in the App Store Here

About the Original Minimoog Model D Synthesizer
​Introduced by Moog in 1970, the Minimoog Model D served as the archetype for all synthesizers that followed. It provided a whole generation of artists the ability to design their own sounds, translating imagination into reality. The Minimoog’s portability, affordability, and accessibility made it the go-to instrument for musicians looking to expand beyond the traditional sounds of the time.

Bernie Worrell used the Minimoog Model D to establish Parliament Funkadelic’s futuristic funk sound. Kraftwerk employed the Minimoog Model D on the influential concept album Autobahn, sparking an entirely new genre. Gary Numan replaced his live band’s guitars with Minimoog Model D synths, creating the prototype for industrial music. The classic sound of the Minimoog Model D can be heard on Bob Marley’s Catch a Fire, Michael Jackson’s Thriller, Dr. Dre’s The Chronic, and many more iconic releases by renowned musicians.

More about Moog Music Moog Music is the world’s leading producer of theremins and analog synthesizers. The employee-owned company and its customers carry on the legacy of its founder, electronic musical instrument pioneer Dr. Bob Moog. All of Moog’s instruments are built with love inside its factory in downtown Asheville, North Carolina. Learn more here.

Modal Electronics Launches Filton as Exclusive Kickstarter Project

Modal Electronics, a leading global synthesiser manufacturer, has announced Filton, a 20HP Dual Analogue Transistor Ladder Filter Module for Eurorack.

Based on the most popular classic filter design in synth history, Filton delivers the distinctive saturated transistor overdrive, resonant harmonic peaks and warm analogue timbres that is adored by many synth lovers for generations. In our acclaimed 002 synth we introduced the concept of polesweeping into the circuitry to allow seamless filter morphing from four pole through bandpass to one pole 6db per octave, or anywhere in between.

Since then, we were asked by many to release the 002 filter as a separate product to use with external sound sources or in Eurorack setups. Filton is our answer to these passionate musicians and producers.

Although the ladder filter within Filton incorporates the same filter circuitry from the 002 synthesiser, Modal made many alterations to the original design to improve both stability and sound. Also, this module contains two discrete filters rather than just one, to process two sound signals independently or allow for series or parallel processing of a single source.

Each filter features an audio input, four analogue CVs with attenuvertor controls for FM, Resonance, Morph and Level, pitch tracking provided by the 1V/Oct input, an audio output and a mixed output. All CV inputs on Filter A have been normalled to Filter B, meaning any CV signal plugged into Filter A is automatically sent to Filter B if nothing is plugged into the corresponding input.

Filton will be available as a limited Kickstarter edition from 7th September 2022. Modal has no plans to distribute it using its usual distribution network. Various pledge models are available, whereas a single Filton module will be at £299.

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

Oberheim Begins Shipping OB-X8 Eight-Voice Analog Synthesizer

Oberheim Begins Shipping OB-X8 Eight-Voice Analog Synthesizer

Oberheim today began shipping the OB-X8: an eight-voice polyphonic analog synth that combines the classic sound and key features of the legendary OB-X, OB-Xa, and OB-8 products from the 1980s – including all of the original presets that gave them their signature sounds.

“It’s an exciting day for Oberheim and for musicians that have been anxiously waiting for the OB-X8 since we first announced it,” said company founder Tom Oberheim. “Naturally, we’re proud to reintroduce the Oberheim sound in a new instrument. But even more, we’re proud that we’ve been able to combine the voice architectures of the various original OB series synths in a way that gives players unique new sounds and capabilities that even the originals didn’t have. It’s an amazing-sounding instrument.”

The catalog of artists associated with the original OB-series synths is long, and includes innovators like Prince, Eddie Van Halen, Jimmy Jam, and Herbie Hancock. For many, it was much more than just an instrument; it was part of their signature sound and a key part of the musical tapestry of the 1980’s and beyond.

Oberheim alumni Marcus Ryle, who was deeply involved in the design and execution of the OB-X8, summed up the new synth: “As a whole, the OB-X8 covers more sonic territory than any OB-series synth ever created. The Oberheim team has delivered an instrument that will satisfy even the most die-hard Oberheim fans — and introduce an entirely new generation to the incomparable Oberheim sound.”

Oberheim CEO David Gibbons added: “Bringing back Oberheim and creating the new OB-X8 has been a true labor of love. Even more gratifying is the overwhelmingly positive reaction we’ve received from both artists and the music industry as a whole. Everyone is excited about this instrument — and nobody more than us.”

Oberheim brings its products to market with the help of the Focusrite organization and renowned synth maker, Sequential.

The OB-X8 eight-voice analog synthesizer is available now with a US MAP of $4,999.

For more details visit www.oberheim.com.

About Oberheim

Oberheim is the 21st century return of the legendary company that helped fuel the electronic music revolution. Now, just as then, Oberheim is guided by the vision of engineer and inventor, Tom Oberheim. Tom’s genius for innovation introduced the world to the first commercially available poly synth and other groundbreaking electronic instruments that literally changed the sound of music. Today, Oberheim reawakens this legacy by bringing the famed Oberheim sound to a new generation of instruments and artists. The company’s passion remains unchanged by time or technology — to once again provide the world with the finest-sounding analog synthesizers ever made. Oberheim brings its products to market with the help of the Focusrite organization and renowned synth maker, Sequential.

Update on Erica Synths Pērkons HD-01

HD-01

Riga, Latvia, July 7, 2022 — Erica Synths announces production updates to Pērkons HD-01, its unique live production and sound design desktop instrument. Firstly, despite global shortages, the company has secured all the necessary parts for production of the second batch. This has been a challenge, since micro-controller cost has increased ten times — yet the price of Pērkons HD-01 has only slightly increased to 1700 EUR / 2059 USD respectively. ​
​
​Other important updates:

  • The first batch of Pērkons HD-01 has completely sold out.
  • Orders made before June 22 will ship in August / September
  • Orders made after June 22 will ship starting October, assuming no manufacturing delays occur.

Meantime, two new videos from Erica Synths have now published: a sound demo and a video overview of Pērkons HD-01 – see below:

More on Pērkons HD-01
​ It’s rather sudden– the bolt of lightning strikes quickly, but the roar follows behind, as if giving one time enough to inhale. Finally, it strikes your ears like the skies breaking apart and in all its magnificence it rides the wind. PĒRKONS – a deity of old known by many names and also by ours on the eastern coast of the Baltic Sea – THUNDER, lord of the skies. We at Erica Synths proudly present our newest creation – PĒRKONS (THUNDER) – a drum machine and synthesizer that will change your approach to electronic rhythm synthesis – an instrument which bears the weight of a storm beneath its sturdy casing.

PĒRKONS features four sonically versatile hybrid voices (digital sound engine + analogue multimode filter with overdrive) and a sequencer with simultaneous control over all four percussion tracks.

Each voice has 3 sound engine modes, a HP/BP/LP filter and 8 controls for nuanced sound design, including an internal BBD FX send. All voice parameter settings can be saved as KITS. To add dynamics to the performance, parameter automation is implemented and a modulation LFO can be assigned to all parameters.

For a real thunderstorm, integration with external gear is considered – each voice has a dedicated trigger input, individual output and FX send and return with 6.3mm jack sockets, along with extensive MIDI implementation. All voices are summed and run through a built-in compressor.

PĒRKONS HD-01 is a unique live performance and sound design instrument that tears down the borders between drum machine, synthesizer and drone instrument. Time to ride the skies!

Features:

  • 4 hybrid voices (digital sound engine and analogue multimode filter with overdrive)
  • 8 controls per voice
  • External trigger inputs for each voice
  • Individual voice outputs
  • Individual FX sends and returns
  • Master FX send and return
  • 64 kit and 64 pattern memory + additional memory on the SD card
  • Built-in BBD emulation and a compressor
  • Modulation LFO with morphing waveforms; up to 8 modulation destinations per voice
  • 4 track sequencer, 4 time divisions and 4 time multiplications per track
  • Per-step ratchets and probabilities
  • Shuffle & groove settings for each track
  • MIDI IN and MIDI OUT

For more information on Pērkons HD-01, please visit the Erica Synths product page.
​
​About Erica Synths
​​Erica Synths team of visionaries, engineers and musicians have been working hard to bring you modules and instruments that will set your modular system apart from mass in terms of how it sounds, looks and functions.

 

Akai Professional Announces its First Standalone Production Keyboard Synthesizer MPC KEY 61

Akai MPC

Akai Professional, a leading manufacturer of music equipment for performers and producers, has announced the launch of the highly anticipated MPC Key 61 standalone semi-weighted production synthesizer keyboard, including 25 unique plugin instruments with the most modern sound design textures and tonality for all genres of music, making it a powerfully versatile tool for the music creative of today.

MPC has been a mainstay of contemporary production for decades, and has always defined chart- topping hip hop, pop and all variations of electronic music. The standalone MPC platform has built on that rich history with innovative mixing and instrument plugins, an intuitive user interface, and a wealth of technology that embraces the modern music producer.

At the heart of MPC Key 61 are the sounds, including 25 unique plugin instruments with the most modern sound design textures and tonality for all genres of music. From timeless acoustic to futuristic synth, the full sonic capability of MPC Key 61 runs the harmonic spectrum.

“Sound has always been the hallmark of MPC,” said Dan Gill, Akai Professional Senior Product Manager. “Our punchy and warm sampling, unique swing and groove, and lock-tight sequencing have all been heard on countless major music productions. We’re extremely excited to build on that heritage with a new industry benchmark. We’ve added a remarkable set of plugin instruments and production tools for the modern music creator. MPC Key 61 equips every music maker from any genre with a diverse palette of inspirational sounds and tools to craft chart-topping hits of today— and even develop the new signature sounds and styles of tomorrow.”

Fabric XL is the flagship power synthesizer offering the most dynamic and powerful synth-engines and sampled acoustic instruments for contemporary music production. Fabric XL’s wide selection of presets are powered by a revolutionary multi-sample-based synthesis engine for cutting-edge performance and sound.

OPx4, a powerful 4-operator FM Synthesizer engine, provides the classic sound of FM at the musician’s fingertips. Built around an elegant interface, the user can dive into a whole new world of sound design, effects and parameters to truly make it their own.

Stage Piano, Session Strings, Stage EP, and Organ offer world-class sounds of acoustic and electromechanical instrument plugins. Stage Piano includes a Steinway® grand and Bechstein® upright for a complete lineup of rich piano tone. Session Strings is an elaborate group of orchestral instruments destined to be a secret weapon in the composer’s toolbox.

From delicate solo violins to formidable ensembles of bowed instrumentation, Session Strings delivers everything needed to create stringed layers of depth and dimension. Stage EP’s tone is meticulously true to all the classic keyboards such as Rhodes, FM Electric Piano, Wurlitzer® and more, while the Organ plugin screams through its Leslie speaker simulation with the very soul and spirit of the mighty B3.

The Complete MPC Package

MPC Key 61 is the first MPC to introduce a 61 semi-weighted keybed with velocity and aftertouch, making the new plugin instruments come to life. With 2 onboard high-end mic preamps and AD/DA converters along with phantom power, MPC Key 61 delivers the full MPC sampling experience while also introducing new ways to morph, shape and define signature sounds with the assignable Touch Strip controller and Q-LINK knobs. From customizing personalized sounds, to composing and fully recording harmonic and melodic ideas, to delivering final productions—MPC Key 61 is the most complete music production tool in the industry for modern music creators.

16 velocity-sensitive RGB drum pads with aftertouch offer the world-renowned MPC beat making and rhythmic experience that is second to none. With an onboard Transport, lay down rhythms and sequences with an effortless workflow. Go from intuitively browsing the thousands of sound presets on the beautiful 7-inch multi-gesture color display, to quickly sequencing ideas and finalizing them with premium effects from award-winning AIR Music Tech. Assign and control all effect parameters with the (4) 360 rotary Q-LINK knobs, perfect for writing real-time automation.

With a wide selection of I/O, MPC Key 61 integrates seamlessly into any studio environment. Use the Class Compliant USB ports to connect devices such as MIDI controllers, audio interfaces, or removable storage. (8) 3.5mm CV/Gate outputs provide plenty of room to plug into your modular and synth gear, and dedicated Pitch Bend/Mod Wheels add expanded control, depth and texture. The onboard TRS ¼” audio outputs can be configured as dual-stereo or four-mono signal paths while the two XLR/¼” combination inputs enable sampling and recording from Mic, Instrument, or Line-level sources via the ultra-clean preamps and premium AD/DA converters.

Key Features

  • 25 cutting-edge instrument plugins
  • Expressive 61-key semi-weighted keybed with aftertouch
  • Powerful 4gb RAM / Quad Core Arm Processor – no need for a computer
  • 16 RGB velocity-sensitive MPC Drum Pads with aftertouch and Note Repeat
  • Assignable Touch Strip controller
  • 2 Mic/Line/Instrument inputs with high-end mic preamps
  • Onboard Audio Interface with premium AD/DA converters
  • Vibrant 7” color Touch Screen with Multi-touch & Gestures
  • Powerful 128 track MIDI sequencer
  • Onboard Wi-Fi/Bluetooth
  • 4 assignable Q-LINK Controller Knobs
  • Pitch Bend/Modulation wheels
  • Dedicated Transport section
  • Accepts Class Compliant audio interfaces and MIDI devices
  • 4 discrete Line outputs
  • 8 audio tracks
  • 8 CV/Gate output jacks for modular integration
  • MPC2 Desktop Software DAW for Mac/PC included

Availability

MPC Key 61 will be available globally on Thursday June 23, 2022. MPC Key 61 users will also receive a free update to the MPC 2.11 desktop software. To learn more about MPC Key 61, visit akaipro.com.

Pricing

USA MAP: $1899

MSRP €1,999.99 / £1,699.99

About Akai Professional

The world’s most influential manufacturer of music production gear, Akai Professional develops creative technologies to empower music makers with tools that are unmatched in expressive capability. Akai Professional is best known for creating the legendary MPC, an instrument that has inspired generations of producers and performers and spawned entire genres of music. Akai Professional is a part of the inMusic family of premier music brands.

 

 

Korg Excited To Announce New Pa5X Professional Arranger

Korg Pa5X

Featuring a brushed aluminium body with wooden side panels, the new Korg Pa5X boasts a detailed and immersive adjustable colour touch screen, supported by an array of intuitive hands-on controls. More than 2,200 professionally crafted sounds are powered by an expanded EDS-XP sound engine; these sit alongside more than 600 dynamic backing styles covering a huge array of musical genres.

Whether at home, in a studio, or on stage, an unprecedented selection of advanced features sets Pa5X apart as it marks the beginning of a new generation of professional arranger keyboards.

Key highlights

  • More than 2,200 incredible sounds with new EDS-XP sound engine
  • More than 600 realistic and versatile backing styles utilising new technology based on round-robin sampling
  • Luxurious brushed aluminium and wood design with a choice of three keyboard lengths
  • Expandable with onboard sampling, deep editing capabilities, and a new flexible file system
  • Dual players with exclusive XDS crossfade control allows the playback of any two styles, MP3s, or MIDI songs together
  • Versatile real-time controls
  • Songbook and set lists for simple setting organisation and recall
  • Powerful effects and extensive inputs/outputs

Design & versatility

Pa5X looks incredible in the home, while also being ready for the road. A beautiful aluminium body with luxurious wooden side panels ensures Pa5X not only has a premium feel but is also sturdy to support countless live performance situations.

From the effortlessly compact 61-key model to the versatile 76-key, and piano- weighted 88-key versions, Pa5X provides the player with a responsive feel, with aftertouch for added expressivity.

Design & versatility

Pa5X looks incredible in the home, while also being ready for the road. A beautiful aluminium body with luxurious wooden side panels ensures Pa5X not only has a premium feel but is also sturdy to support countless live performance situations.

From the effortlessly compact 61-key model to the versatile 76-key, and piano- weighted 88-key versions, Pa5X provides the player with a responsive feel, with aftertouch for added expressivity.

Pa5X-61

One of the most compact flagship arrangers, featuring 61 semi-weighted keys.

Pa5X-76

76 semi-weighted keys offer increased creative versatility with splits and key zones.

Pa5X-88

For the first time, our flagship professional arranger with 88 fully weighted keys.

Sounds

Thanks to a newly-developed EDS-XP sound engine (Enhanced Definition Synthesis– Expanded) and drawing on Kronos, Nautilus and SV2, Pa5X has massive sound libraries across every genre, from pianos to EPs, orchestral, synthesized sounds and more. A new drawbar organ section even offers realistic controls and a sound which benefits from the stunning effects found within Pa5X.

Smooth Sound Transition ensures seamless changes of sound and style, while Sound Controller 3 helps give an unprecedented level of sonic realism.

Styles

Pa5X features more than 600 backing styles, covering a breath-taking array of musical genres, from classic pop and ballads, to jazz, big band and movie soundtracks.

New drum and percussion sounds benefit from the use of technology based on round-robin sampling, meaning that no two drum hits are equal. This, combined with the ability to edit each part of the drum kit individually, gives new and recreated styles a fresh sound that you can make your own.

Features

Songbook

Songs, styles and sounds can be saved into the Songbook. This database-like system can then be organised into set lists for specific performances, types of music, or any other situation where quick recall of settings is needed.

Dual players

Thanks to two players and exclusive XDS crossfade control, Pa5X can play two styles, MIDI files, or MP3 files simultaneously and in any combination! These two players can be mixed or can be used to play a song while another one is waiting to start. All while the Pa5X’s sound engine ensures transitions happen seamlessly.

A bright clear display and Real Time controls

Key performance information is displayed on an immersive colour touch screen and can also be outputted to an external display thanks to a standard HDMI output.

Faders, switches, real and virtual matrices of real time controls, the joystick, and the ribbon controller can all be assigned to modulate any parameter of your sound. This provides precise control of the most subtle nuances and articulation.

Programmable controls and auxiliary display

Pa5X features a fully programmable control section with nine faders and nine buttons. Freely assignable, the current function is shown on an auxiliary strip display so that you always know what you have under your fingertips – even if you are on a different page on the main display.

Mixer and effects

Pa5X houses a vast array of studio-level effects resulting in a polished and high- production quality sound.

Inputs and outputs

Pa5X has a huge selection of audio, MIDI, USB, control, and storage connections. A microphone and guitar can be connected simultaneously to the Pa5X, where both inputs have dedicated on-board effects. Vocal processing adds incredibly lifelike four-voice harmonies that recreate the feel of real backing vocals, alongside a new Auto Pitch feature.

Key information

Product

Code

 Availability Guide

Price
PA5X-61 Immediate £3699.00
PA5X-76 Immediate £3999.00
PA5X-88 Immediate £4299.00

More information: https://www.korg.co.uk/pa5x

 

GEWA Introduces Its First Portable Piano PP-3

GEWA PP-3

With the GEWA PP-3, GEWA presents its first Portable Piano with a specially developed keyboard, two-way speaker system, app connectivity, and high-resolution Hamburg Grand Piano Sample.

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.

GEWA PP3

Easy operation via GEWA Piano Remote App

The GEWA PP-3 impresses with a very minimalistic user interface. It only has 7 illuminated buttons and volume control. Here the pianist can adjust the most important settings like sound selection or metronome. All other features are available via the GEWA Piano Remote app.

In the GEWA Piano Remote App (connected via the built-in Bluetooth module), many other options are available to the user. For example, you can edit four different favorite sounds and then select them directly from the piano.

Other features include the metronome, the combination editor, or the single key calibration for fine-tuning the keyboard behaviour. The app is available for Android and iOS smartphones and tablets.

The PP-3 has Bluetooth audio and MIDI functionalities it is therefore compatible with most of the available piano learning apps.

GEWA Smart Touch Keyboard

The keyboard of the PP-3 is called Smart Touch Keyboard by GEWA. This is an 88-key weighted hammer-action keyboard. The keyboard was developed by GEWA and is therefore perfectly adjusted to the piano sample.

GEWA PP3

Availability

The PP-3 is available now from GEWA digital piano partners.

More information at: www.gewakeys.com

 

Gamechanger Audio Presents The MOTOR Synth MKII

MOTOR Synth MKII

Audio electronics inventors Gamechanger Audio return to Berlin to present the newest version of their electro-mechanical desktop synthesizer – MOTOR Synth MKII. The company has expanded on features and the overall capability of its unique technology. Separate multi-mode analog filters, redesigned modulation section, and additional digital voice equipped with a separate envelope, portamento section, and digital multimode filter are only some of the new upgrades and features.

The Motor Synth was introduced in 2019. It is based on a unique motor oscillator engine – this is a system of electro-motors that are able to instantly change their rotation speed in order to produce musical notes. These motor oscillators can produce four distinct waveforms – Sine, Saw, Square and the so-called M waveform. The M waveform is produced by a set of electromagnetic pickups that are placed next to each motor’s rotating inner coils. As the coils rotate the motor’s coils create electromagnetic fluctuations that can be amplified to produce a unique Motor waveform.

The Sine, Saw and Square waveforms are produced by a set of specially designed Optical discs that are mounted to each Motor’s shaft. Each Motor Disc has three “tracks” engraved onto its reflective surface. These “tracks” are designed as a circular optical representation of the Sine Saw and Square waveforms. Each reflective “track” is paired with a separate infra-red laser and sensor that picks up the reflected beam. As the disc rotates and brings the differently shaded areas in circular motion, the infra-red reflectivity sensor begins outputting a so-called “Optical Waveform” – a proprietary technology that we developed specifically for the MOTOR Synth.

Besides the unique Motor oscillator engine, additional features include: TWO INDEPENDENT MOTOR VOICES The MOTOR Synth offers two separate MOTOR Voices with 4 Electromotor oscillators each – both voices can operate in mono, unison or in four-note polyphonic mode. Both MOTOR Voices are equipped with a separate set of controls for adjusting VOLUME, SCALE, WAVESHAPE, individual AMP ENVELOPE engines for each musical note, as well as very detailed control over a deep and versatile PORTAMENTO / PITCH MOD section (called “Acceleration / Brake”). SEPARATE MULTI-MODE ANALOG FILTERS Both Motor voices are equipped with a separate analogue multimode filter section with adjustable DRIVE, CUTOFF, RESONANCE, ENVELOPE SHAPE & AMOUNT and FILTER TYPE.

There are four analogue filter types – 24 dB LP, 12 dB BP, 12 dB HP, 12 dB AP (All-Pass). The new analog filter circuits have increased headroom, improved envelope response speed, and a very precise analog keytrack mode with adjustable depth, direction, and filter “glide”. DIGITAL VOICE The MOTOR Synth MK II features an additional third voice – a digital engine that can be used either independently or to augment the raw sound of the MOTOR Voices. The Digital engine (DCO) can be used to produce various classic waveforms (with waveshaping) or as a noise generator.

The DCO is also equipped with a separate, fully controllable AMP ENVELOPE, PORTAMENTO section, and its own Digital multimode Filter designed to reproduce the 4 analog filter modes. CONFIGURABLE STEREO OUTPUT The MOTOR Synth has a single output jack that can be configured either as mono, or as a stereo output – thus routing the synth’s two motor voices into separate channels.

The Digital voice can also be routed to the V1 or V2 outputs, or to both. MODULATION SECTION WITH THREE ASSIGNABLE LFOS The MOTOR Synth MKII also features an extremely powerful modulation section that includes 3 individual LFOs with adjustable positive and negative depth controls. Each LFO can be easily assigned to almost any knob or encoder value on two independent modulation slots A and B. There are five independent modulation waveforms available for each LFO – each with a detailed waveshaping engine. CROSS-MODULATION AND DETUNE OPTIONS The MOTOR Synth features a dedicated center indent potentiometer for creating amplitude cross-modulation with either Voice 1 or Voice 2.

The Detune / Drift knob gives you two kinds of oscillator detune effects. ARP, MOTION RECORD, SEQUENCER A powerful arpeggiator engine offers detailed control over a large variety of parameters, including note accent, pattern shift, note repeat and more. Multiple independent motion Record lanes, assignable to all sound parameters. A built-in sequencer engine with controls for micro-timing, probability, ratchets, pattern length, pattern saving and chaining and much more. PERFORMANCE KEYBOARD Non-velocity sensitive 8 key keyboard with 4 pitch shift encoders – this is a small but powerful note input system with a lot of performance tricks up its sleeve. Alternatively, the MOTOR Synth is fully MIDI and CV compatible and can be used with all of your favorite keyboards (incl. poly-aftertouch), controllers and sequencers. Sound characteristics and visual experience.

As an instrument that uses electromotors as its main sound source, Motor Synth inherently possesses many unique sound traits that will surely appeal to many musicians that favour analogue electronic instruments and synthesizers in particular. With its unusual tonal and timbral qualities, unlimited microtonal pitch adjustment and modulation abilities, and note attack and decay properties influenced by the acceleration and deceleration curves of electromotors, Motor Synth works well across a wide range of musical styles.

Whatever way anyone chooses to play Motor Synth a stunning visual experience is guaranteed. Motor Synth’s see-through protective glass cover above its core sound system of eight electromotors enables users to receive visual feedback from the instrument itself by being able to see those spinning electromotors in action.

The visual experience is enhanced by the visible set of reflective optical disks attached to the electromotors’ shafts being coupled to a set of eight mini strobe lights, so those spinning disks themselves turn into a hypnotic light show, courtesy of the strobe effect!

Find out more info and the full layout of the new design – https://gamechangeraudio.com/motor-synth/

IK Multimedia releases UNO Synth Pro Black Edition

IK Multimedia releases UNO Synth Pro Black Edition. IK’s award-winning true analog synthesizer now sports a bold new look. Featuring classic analog sound, incredible flexibility, an inspiring workflow and complete connectivity, this little black synth is perfect for every occasion.

Inside and out are all the sound-shaping features that users and reviewers loved in 2021, only back in black. No matter what genre or workflow, whether the rig is PC-based or outboard, whether on stage or in the studio, UNO Synth Pro Black Edition is guaranteed to make users look and sound their best.

Classic sounds

  • 3 discrete oscillators plus noise generator
  • Pulse-width modulation and hard sync
  • Continuously variable wave shape
  • FM and ring modulation

Incredibly adaptable

  • Dual state variable filters with 24 modes
  • Series and parallel configuration
  • 16-slot modulation matrix
  • Free Mac/PC Editor to integrate with DAWs

Fits in anywhere

  • 2 x CV / Gate input & output
  • 5-pin and USB MIDI I/O
  • Audio input to filters, FX, or pass-through
  • Balanced stereo & headphone outs

The perfect foundation

  • 256 user-editable presets
  • 10-mode onboard arpeggiator
  • 64-step sequencer with 40+ parameters
  • CV/Gate automation

Uno Synth Pro

Same thrill, but dressed to kill
Just like for the original, the UNO Synth Pro Editor makes it easy to create classic or new sounds or load any of the FREE artist preset packs at UNO Sounds.

With its compact size and sleek looks, UNO Synth Pro Black is destined to inspire new sounds and be part of any performance.

Pricing and availability
UNO Synth Pro Black Edition is available while supplies last from the IK Multimedia online store and from IK authorized dealers worldwide at a special price of $/€349.99* (reg. $/€399.99). An optional USB power bank is available for $/€29.99.**

*All pricing excluding taxes
**Check availability for your territory

For more information, please visit: www.unosynthpro.com/black

1...567...18Page 6 of 18
© Keys Review2026