Oscillographic Synthesizer and Computer Interface
The de/Rastra oscillographic synthesizer is a real-time audio/video instrument and computer-interfacing device that allows a performer to generate visualizations intrinsic to cathode ray tube technology while simultaneously creating the acoustic analog of the displayed imagery. The de/Rastra oscillographic synthesizer is an open source project and will eventually be accompanied by tutorials on methods of CRT hacking. Related tutorials can be found at http://www.crackedraytube.com/textstutorials.html but specific information regarding de/Rastra are in progress.
Introducing the All-Tube “Black Box” Mic Preamp
The Black Box Microphone Preamp was designed and built by Black Box Analog Design – established in 2009 by studio owners and audio engineers Eric Racy and Robert Wainscott. This tube pre has reportedly been “designed from the ground up, using the best parts and ignoring all of the standard ideas of how a preamp ‘should work’. The result is an incredibly versatile piece of gear that not only sounds amazing but shatters the idea of what a preamp can do.”
The all-tube Black Box mic pre (introductory price $1,995)
This tweak-friendly all-tube design features continuously variable triode and pentode stages, which puts the tonal character of the preamp in the user’s hands.
According to the product announcement:
“The Black Box enables users to uniquely shape their sound by implementing unconventional methods and such features as an entirely analog audio path, custom, hand wound Cinemag input and output transformers, hand soldered point-to-point wiring, independently controlled Pentode and Triode tube stages (as well as independent Pentode / Triode “Tone Boost” switches), 350v linear power supply and the ability to shape the frequency response without the use of an EQ.
For a complete list of specifications, click here.
Said Wainscott: “I approached the design of the Black Box Microphone Preamp in the same manner I would set up for a mix session. I mixed a single tube with everything plugged into a ‘patchbay’ and all the values that shape how the tube works were fluid. Everything from plate voltage to blocking capacitors could be changed in real time, which afforded me the room to perfect the Mic Pre’s design, resulting in the unit we have today.”
The Black Box Mic Pre (MSRP $2,500) is now available through Vintage King Audio at an introductory MAP price of $1,995.
For more information, visit www.blackboxanalog.com.
Akai Pro SynthStation49 – Overview and walk through
Here’s the pitch form Akai:
SynthStation49 is the most advanced, intuitive music controller designed specifically for use with the iPad and is the first true iPad performance tool for musicians. Working seamlessly with Akai Professional’s heralded SynthStation software, SynthStation49 provides unparalleled music creation capabilities, including direct in-app MIDI recording from its velocity-sensitive keyboard, nine MPC-style drum pads and array of transport controls. In addition to its integration with the SynthStation app, SynthStation49 is also completely iOS CoreMIDI compatible, making it instantly compatible with dozens of music apps already in the App Store and hundreds more on the way.
http://www.akaipro.com/synthstation49
Additional information:
Dock, power and position the iPad perfectly using the adjustable-angled cradle, or establish commanding control over your favorite computer software using SynthStation49‘s USB/MIDI port. Professional ¼” outputs and extreme portability ensure you’ll be able to take your sequences straight to the stage at a moments notice.
SynthStation49 is the only full-featured, professional keyboard controller allowing direct MIDI performance recording onto an iPad. Bridging Akai Professional’s popular MPK controllers with the previously released SynthStation25, SynthStation49 provides immense software control with forty-nine, full-size velocity-sensitive keys, nine backlit MPC-style drum pads and full transport buttons. An adjustable-angled dock for iPad allows the user to easily slide their tablet into the SynthStation49’s cradle and position the screen to their preference.
SynthStation49’s keyboard, pitch/modulation wheels and sustain pedal input provide great feel and the essential controls for musicians and producers to compose, record and perform. The nine drum pads of SynthStation49 give users immediate, intuitive beat-creation capabilities over the 50 classic and modern kits available within the SynthStation software. Program, Sequence, Song select and Transport buttons also provide quick navigation to the SynthStation App’s most used components for a seamless, efficient workflow.
SynthStation49 also contains a stereo pair of professional ¼” TRS outputs with volume knob for easy connecting to other pro audio equipment on stage or in the studio. A headphone output also lets users practice and compose in private. The SynthStation49’s USB port can be connected directly to a Mac or PC computer to receive power in addition to transmitting MIDI to and from music software – a great way to turn the SynthStation App or other CoreMIDI compatible App into a sound module. You can even use SynthStation49 as a traditional USB MIDI controller with your computer – no iPad required!
AkaiConnect SDK allows third-party developers to take advantage of all the professional controls and capabilities of Akai Pro’s SynthStation49 keyboard controller and incorporate support for those controls within their iPad applications. Software developers interested in creating programs compatible with SynthStation49 can submit an application now at SynthStationApp.com.
Secrets of analog & digital synthesis
Synth arts lesson 1 – the physics of sound
original title: secrets of analog & digital synthesis
(c) 1985, 1986 Ferro Productions
by Steve de Furia
Electronic music: Diskonnekted – Conspiracy
All the details on this video and the new album – Hotel Existence – below:
Buy @ iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/be/album/hotel-existence-bonus-tracks/id522303887
Buy album: http://www.alfa-matrix.com/shop_comments.php?id=2155_0_8_0_C
Buy limited 2cd BOX: http://www.alfa-matrix.com/shop_comments.php?id=2156_0_8_0_C
Official video by Romuald ‘Ishoothorizon’ Swieconek
4 years! Some 48 months… It’s the time it took for Belgian artist Jan Dewulf to redefine the DISKONNEKTED concept and return with an all new philosophy, new sound, new image… Strong and combative, DISKONNEKTED proudly presents on his 4th studio album “Hotel Existence” a new formula that brings the band through raving breaks, deep and stuttering bass, catchy poignant vocals and electronic soundscapes. Inspired by a Paul Auster novel, the new songs reflect the general idea of the inner fantasy that promises you a better world, but becomes a cancer of unfulfilled expectations. Apart from being an explosive intermix of styles that’s never been heard before in the contemporary industrial/electro scene, ‘Hotel Existence’ is also an emotional quest that will shake your inner world.
You can’t place DISKONNEKTED’s music in one specific genre, since every challenging genre is reflected in this album: from drum ‘n bass and dubstep, to floating electronics and solid EBM. A true clash of styles exploring different electronic genres and offering what might be the freshest album of the year! Fans of PENDULUM’s raving breaks or the uncompromising cross-over of CELLDWELLER will be delighted to see those elements being also introduced in a modern electronic hybrid style.
The album is also released as a double-CD limited carton box edition including remixes by LIQUID DIVINE, PAUL UDAROV, PSY’AVIAH, SLEEPLESS, MILDREDA, ESSENCE OF MIND, etc.
SketchSynth – A drawable OSC control panel
SketchSynth – A drawable OSC control panel (not to be confused with the SketchSynth 3D available on iOS)
“My final project for Golan Levin’s Interactive Art and Computational Design class at CMU, Spring 2012.
Built with openFrameworks, ofxCv, OSC, and Pure Data.”
More info: golancourses.net/2012spring/05/13/billy-keyes-final-project-sketchsynth/
Behind-the-scenes view: vimeo.com/42053693
Music: ioflow – mnml autmn
Thanks to Golan Levin, the CMU Art Department (Bob Kollar), and Nick Mazurek for lending me equipment for the project and the video. Also, thanks to Kyle McDonald for his excellent ofxCv addon, which makes it incredibly easy to work with OpenCV inside openFrameworks.
Solina String Ensemble – new sample library for Native Instruments Kontakt 4
Binary Music announces the release of Solina String Ensemble sample library for Native Instruments Kontakt 4.
Originally manufactured in 1974, by Dutch company Eminent, and later, under licence by ARP, it was an immediate success across a wide spectrum of music, with users including David Bowie, Pink Floyd, Parliament, Air, Stevie Wonder, Elton John and The Cure.
Every note of each voice (Violin, Viola, Horn, Trumpet, Cello and Contrabass), has been sampled at 44.1 kHz, 24 bit resolution.
Two distinct versions are included – one sampled with the original modulation and three round-robins per note, and one sampled without modulation, but with modulation recreated using Kontakt’s scripting and effects.
Available as an instant download, price: £15.00 (approx. $23 U.S. or €18) + VAT in E.U.
Full details and audio demos at: http://www.binarymusic.co.uk/solina.html
Teaser: Livetronica Studio – software –
Tour of the latest release of Livetronica Studio – software for looping, scratching, turntablism, controllerism, VST/AU hosting, and all sorts of live music making. Comes with tight Soundcloud integration, easy midi mapping for complete control, intense turntable visualization, and timecoded vinyl support.
Korg MS-20 + ARP Odyssey MK2 = Analog Improv
A little improve with two vintage synths. The MS-20 is also run through an mf-104z and mf-103 moogerfoogers.
Hardware:
Korg MS-20
ARP Odyssey MK 2
Moogerfooger MF-104z Analog Delay
Moogerfooger MF-103 Phaser
Software:
Valhalla DSP Room
PSP Vintage Warmer 2
U2 Tribute (Live Electronic Performance) – Pride + Vertigo
2 Electronic covers of songs by the band U2, arranged and performed by Gil Assayas. The songs are “Pride (In the Name of Love)” and “Vertigo”.
DATAMASKIN
