It’s the return of MeeBlip Geode, the venerable SynthMaster levels up to version 3, learn synthesis on an Erica Synths Bullfrog XL and more in this week’s Synth Journal.
MeeBlip Geode Nightshade Edition
The original MeeBlip Geode was a wonderfully grimy and gutsy tabletop digital monosynth. Now developer Peter Kirn has re-released the MeeBlip Geode in a new, dark color scheme. He’s calling this new version, appropriately enough, the MeeBlip Geode Nightshade Edition.
If you’re unfamiliar with the MeeBlip Geode, it’s got two digital oscillators, each with PWM, pulse, sawtooth, and triangle or noise. This then passes through a unique analog filter which is based on a 1970s guitar distortion circuit. There’s also an ADS envelope, modulation and MIDI via USB (also power) or five-pin cable.
This new, dark MeeBlip Geode is limited to only 100 signed units so grab one soon if you’re interested.
KV331 Audio SynthMaster 3
Although the world can be a scary and unpredictable place, it’s nice to know there are some things you can always count on, like the rising of the sun, the deliciousness of McDonald’s french fries and the fact that there’s always a new SynthMaster update just around the corner.
The long-running SynthMaster soft synth from KV331 Audio has recently leveled up to number three. Each instance of SynthMaster 3 can now have 16 layers, with each layer sporting up to 16 modules, either oscillators or effects. There’s a new granular oscillator and VAnalog oscillator plus wave shaper, phase filter, formant filter, noise LFO and scaler modules.
SynthMaster has always been a solid and great-sounding synth and the new one looks like more of what the software does best.
KV331 Audio is currently running an intro price deal for SynthMaster 3. There are a variety of upgrade prices as well. See the KV331 site below for more information.
Hakke Roland M-64C Memory Cartridges
This makes me very happy. Developer Hakke has recreated the Roland M-64C Memory Cartridge with all new PCBs and components. If you own any vintage Roland gear from the 1980s, you’ve probably either had one of these or searched for a used one on eBay only to be shocked by the prices.
Thankfully, Hakke’s prices are not shocking at all, with the M-64C going for $52.50 and the M-64-2X Dual Memory Cartridge with switchable dual storage priced at $70. The Hakke carts are made to order in Taiwan with professionally 3-D printed cases and waterproof labels.
These are compatible with the Alpha Juno 2, GR-700, GR-77B, MKS-10, MKS-20, MKS-30, MKS-70, MKS-80, TR-707, TR-727, TR-909, JX-8P and JX-10. (I’ll take one of each, please.) They may also be compatible with M-16C and M-32C Memory Cartridges, according to the developer.
Synthesis Lesson with an Erica Synths Bullfrog XL
YouTuber Quincas Moreira Music has started a series of videos explaining subtractive synthesis with the Erica Synths Bullfrog XL. If you’re unfamiliar with the Bullfrog XL, it’s the large-format version of the Bullfrog, both of which Erica Synths designed with producer Richie Hawtin to aid students in learning how to program synthesizers.
As Quincas Moreira explains in the first video, the XL, which is large and stands upright, is for the teacher and is meant to sit at the front of the classroom, with each student getting a regular Bullfrog on their desk. (I want to take that class.)
Although the videos are actually aimed at teachers intending to use the Bullfrogs in a classroom setting, explaining how to use the XL and some programming tips, they’re useful for anyone wanting to know about subtractive synthesis or even just the Bullfrogs themselves.
As of the time of writing this article, Moreira had already released three videos in the series: the introduction, the VCO section and the filter.
The Korg Gallery Launch Event
London readers, take note! A new, Korg-focused permanent exhibition is opening at The Musical Museum in West London on September 17.
“With interactive displays and a vast selection of over fifty instruments, the Korg Gallery invites visitors to discover the iconic sounds behind countless records, film scores, and game soundtracks,” the press release says on the Korg UK site.
Although it doesn’t look like you can play all of the instruments (they are displays, after all), there will be an interactive area where visitors can try some synths out.
To celebrate the opening of the Korg Gallery, there will be a free event on September 17. The new PS-3300 will be on hand at the museum for the opening. Apparently it’s the first time that this new version of the monster 1970s poly will land on UK shores. Korg will also unveil its upcoming microKORG 2 at the show.
Entry is free but you need to reserve a ticket in advance at the Korg UK site. Follow the link below for yours.
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