Commodore 64 Cynthcart
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kKADOmFqRMs]
Overview
A software / hardware combo that allows for control of the analog filter inside a Commodore 64 that is running Cynthcart from a host computer (eg, Macbok, PC).
Software
• 16-step filter sequencer
• Set the speed of the filter sequence (with intervals between values reaching 2ms)
• Set the length of the sequence from 1 to 16 beats
• Offset value allows for shifting the filter values up or down on a larger scale
• MIDI mode allows sending data directly to control the filter (this mode disables the sequencer)
Download the Max/MSP patch here:
http://milkcrate.com.au/_other/downloads/max_patches/C64_FILTER.zip
It requires Max/MSP runtime which can be downloaded from http://www.cycling74.com/.
Screenshot
Interface
The hardware is very simple, and is based around an Arduino board that is using a bit-banging SPI technique to write data to a 100KΩ digital pot (model MCP42100). Approximately 7 of the 8 bits of data actually change the value of the filter (this could be due to the resistance value of the pot).
Any microcontroller that can either do SPI natively or through bit-banging should be able to handle this simple operation.
Software, schematics + code >>
Introducing the Audeon UFO – good or bad, you be the judge
Audeon UFO Signal Flow
Yet another synthesis technique?
Audeon objectives: build a synthesizer where controls would be:
- Perceptually meaningful, to make sound programming an intuitive and quick process (unlike FM for instance)
- Continuous, so any characteristic of the sound can be modulated and evolve over time (unlike virtual analog or sample based synths for instance, where the character of the sound mostly relies on selectors: waveform and filter type), for unparalleled power and expressiveness.
UFO is:
- Innovative: it is built upon original algorithms, rather than an existing synthesis technique;
- Versatile, flexible and expressive: most parameters are continuous and can be modulated by many sources at once. You can apply envelopes and LFOs to virtually anything, have the velocity and aftertouch drastically alter the timbre or to turn a sound into a completely different one with the modulation wheel (“morphing” feature).
- Simple and intuitive: its parameters are either easy-to-understand perceptual attributes (mellow, chaotic, harmonic, noise…) or familiar controls (attack time, LFO delay…)
- Fast and easy to program: you don’t need many synthesis modules (thanks to their versatility) to build complex sounds, and the ergonomics of the user interface has been carefully designed.
About TransModal Synthesis (TM):
Thanks to Audeon’s strong background in signal processing and algorithm design, we came up with a set of innovative and flexible synthesis algorithms gathered under the name “TransModal Synthesis”. The name comes from the fact that instead of operating in several distinct modes, these synthesis modules can perform smooth transitions between their oscillation modes (periodic, chaotic, random, etc) or their filtering mode (low-pass, high-pass, etc). This capability makes them much more flexible and expressive than synthesis modules with waveform or filter type selectors for instance.
TransModal Synthesis algorithms include:
- K-Osc (TM): named after a contraction of “Chaos” and “Oscillator”, K-Osc is a powerful and versatile Chaotic Oscillator Model where the user controls the sound characteristics by balancing perceptual attributes like Mellowness, Brightness, Periodicity, Noisiness, Chaos or Transient duration. These high level controls drive the low level model parameters in order to favor one oscillation mode or another.
- Morphilter (TM): it can be a low-pass, a high-pass or a peaking filter, but also anything in between: you can make it evolve smoothly over time from one shape to another for more complex sound transformations than the usual cutoff frequency sweep.
- A few other synthesis modules are also available: vector synthesis oscillator (waveform interpolation), ring modulator, formant filters, effects…
Sound programming:
A good synthesis engine is nothing without a good user interface to go with. We designed UFO’s interface with two goals in mind:
- Make programming fast, by minimizing the number of required mouse clicks
- Make programming easy, by offering meaningful controls and a global and intuitive way of displaying them
Thanks to this interface, combined with the underlying synthesis algorithms, programming a sound is quick and intuitive.
Demo Version Download
(Save and Automation are disabled, A hissing noise can sometimes be heard, 6 Mb) :
Audeon UFO VST Synth DemoAudio demos:
Morphing (Mp3 File)
This example demonstrates the Morphing feature, between a wind instrument and a percussive sound. You will hear the source sound first: a pan flute / bottle type of sound, then the target sound: a kind of steel drum, and finally UFO slowly morphing from the source to the target.
Texture (Mp3 File)
To make this demo, we dialed the “Infinite space” preset, then pressed two keys at the beginning of the recording and released them at the end (no sequencer, no arpeggiator). A quick and easy way to compose ambient tracks!
Hardcore (Mp3 File)
starting with a virtual didgeridoo, this track evolves into a somewhat dark techno style. After the ethereal pads found in the first demo, some of the sounds in this track explore the opposite side of the sonic palette, showing the dirty and grainy sounds that can be achieved by pushing the oscillator to the edge.
Audeon UFO Screenshot
Future Audio Workshop unveils Circle
semi-modular software synthesizer
Future Audio Workshop unveils Circle is a new semi-modular software synthesizer, designed to be easy to use, allowing you to concentrate fully on sound design and performance. Circle, a new semi modular software synthesizer. Designed to be easy to use and intuitive through simple work flows. Circle comes with lots of great, ready to use sounds. Choose from a large varied pool of sound generators, effects, filters and modulations. Unrestricted modulation allows you to experiment with sound in new ways. Works as Standalone, Audio Unit, VST and RTAS.
What makes it unique is it’s interface. It has a fantastic new work “Flow” and feedback mechanism all presented via a high contrast single page user interface making it much easier to tweak and program than most synths.
Part of this flow is a scheme where modulate sources (LFO, Envelopes, Sequencers) have corresponding color coded “circles”. Simply drag the circle to the parameter you want to modulate and you’ll hear a preview. Drop the circle and the parameter is now connected to the modulation source (see a link to videos below). Very cool! The color coding makes it very easy to identify which modulation source is tied to what parameter making it easier to learn how Circle works.
The interface offers real-time feedback on parameters for the selected sound. For example, if you hit a note on your controller, this sends a circle down the volume envelope. Hold a key down and watch the LFO shape pulse. Again, this feedback system makes it much easier to see what’s happening inside the synth and then tweak to get a different result. Awesome!
Aside from the interface a few other features to note are:
- Midi Learn capability. A real time saver when it comes to assigning knobs from your favorite controller. Each instance of Circle in your host can have it’s own set of mappings.
- Wave morphing. Circle has a pre-defined set of waveforms. You can assign two to an oscillator and then use a modulator to morph.
- Built-in FX
- Sound browser not unlike Native Instruments Kore.
- Interesting “Keyboard” screen for setting up keyboard related modulations and more traditional arpeggiation.
Circle is now available for $199.00 / €149.00. Even you have other similar sounding synths in your rig, you should try the demo to get a feel for this innovative user interface.
More Info:
- Circle Web Page (mp3 demos of Circle in Action).
- Download a free demo
The Mobile Homes celebrates 25 yrs with new material
Check out their new single “Close”
[youtube=http://youtube.com/watch?v=PsTngq_2QkY]
Pretty OK I think 
Mabuse
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6h2W2Lmt15U]
Mabuse V1.1 was featured as part of the Gateway School of Recording / Digital Village launch party. Herb’s presentation on Mabuse was one of the highlights, and there’s some awesome pictures of the event.
It’s worth mentioning that Herb also talked about the most exciting synthesiser in the world – the Roland system 100m. Some of you know how much I love this machine. That’s what I call Music Technology.
More pictures here. Mabuse photo’s go from photo 128 to about 155 (it was a big day).
Lowe releases new album
Although not really a personal favorite of mine (they have released one or two nice tracks :-), though), Swedish new wave act Lowe’s sophomore album, Kino International, is available now from the Megahype label. Formed in 2002, Lowe received awards for Best Newcomer and nominations for Best Album and Best Song in the 2005 Scandinavian Music Awards. The group will perform in Sweden and Germany later this summer.
[youtube=http://youtube.com/watch?v=9zQ8bQWQHDM]
MOTU has finally released Digital Performer 6
Digital Performer 6 offers new features, enhanced operation and improved performance at all levels, from hundreds of small enhancements driven by user requests to major new features and plug-ins that add unprecedented value. Features like track comping will transform your everyday work, while industry-leading features like DP6’s new Final Cut Pro integration could very well transform the way film scoring is done. If you are an existing DP user, upgrade today to discover the many enhancements you’ve been waiting for. If you are new to Digital Performer, there has never been a better time to try DP.
MOTU has finally released Digital Performer 6 which is a a major upgrade to the company’s flagship digital audio sequencer. DP 6 features a redesigned user interface, which includes the ability to zoom in the Track window.
Two new signal processing plug-ins are included: Pro Verb, a convolution reverb that MOTU says is very CPU efficient, and Masterworks Leveler, a dynamics processor that models the classic LA-2A. A new, and very flexible track comping feature is also included. It gives you plenty of control for comping takes, and it even lets you comp your comps.
DP 6 will also include support for Broadcast WAV files, which means your sequence’s audio files no longer need to be in Sound Designer II format. Also included is support for Final Cut Pro XML files, allowing you easily edit your video’s audio track in DP. Another key addition is the ability to burn CDs directly from DP.
Collapsing New (Sweden) People
Well I know this is a music blogg, BUT I must comment on the horrible collapse of the Swedish National Soccer Team in the European Championships, it was a disaster and I didn’t think the Swedish should fall to such a low level in quality and loose with o-2 to Russia (of all teams) – it’s a shame 
Team of failures in the Swedish team (guys that need to go, in that order):
1. Johan Elmander
2. Fredrik Ljungberg
3. Henrik Larsson
4. Lagerbäck (coach)
5. Stoor
I made me associate to an old Fad Gadget fav of mine – Collapsing New People – which logically will be this week’s weekend treat, enjoy!
[youtube=http://youtube.com/watch?v=xGXBjwifubI]
I sure hope to see some major changes well in advance before the world cup in 2009. Well now it’s time to get ready for midsummer holidays here in Sweden, have a great weekend.
Ciao
Cool VSTs for Linux
Create music today, rather than tomorrow…
With features such as no loading-time, all-in-one synth, fx and sequencer, drum machine track, high quality time-stretching/pitch-shifting, REX2 and VST plugin support…you just can’t go wrong with energyXT2.
<!– downloads
| » no loading time » all-in-one synth, fx and sequencer » HQ time-stretching & pitch-shifting |
» clip-based automation » runs on Linux, out-of-the-box! » great user community |
–>
» 100% re-worked workflow
» elastique time-stretching and pitch-shifting
» drag & drop REX2 groove support, with slice editing
» non-destructive audio reverse
» shuffle/swing on midi, audio and drum tracks
» clip based automation embedded into midi, audio and drum clips
» warm and clean sounding phase modulation synthesizer with sample support
» multi-fx processor
» drum track with sample support
» main mixer with unlimited sends, inserts and group channels
» searchable browser with sample preview
» midi, audio and drum clips can be saved as self-containing library clips
» enhanced controller maps
» Works out-of-the box on Linux
Sequencer
The sequencer in energyXT2 works the same way as in Cubase and Logic and offers audio recording, different track types, clip based automation of mixer/EQ and VST plugins. It also has some unique features like drum-machine track, per audio clip resample & elastique time-stretching and modeless editing. Tracks can be arranged into folders to save screen space and VST plugin editors can be docked into separate tabs.
Synth/sampler
The built-in synth/sampler is a phase modulation synthesizer and sample player in one. You can layer and split synthesized and sampled sounds anyway you want. There are all the standard features like multi-mode filter, LFO’s, vibrato and glide. Add per sound phaser/chorus/flanger and per program reverb and delay send effects and you have yourself a workstation. The sound is very “Warm and clean” : bass/pads | bass/lead | synth pad | filter | bass sweep | fm synth | detuned bass | feedback synth
Drum track
The new drum track in energyXT2 works like an audio track with a built in drum sampler. The drum editor looks like a real drum machine and samples can be dropped right into it for quick drum set construction. Drumsets can be saved as presets. To create a new drum track, simply drag a drumset preset or just a wav file into the sequencer, and the drum track will be created for you automatically.
Mixer
All settings in the main mixer cam be automated from the sequencer, including volume, pan, mute, EQ and effect parameters. There are no limit to how many insert and send effects you can use in a project, well except for your CPU that is. Group channels are available for sub mixing, and can be automated just like normal mixer channels and supports insert and send effects as well. The mixer is dockable, and presets for different mixer views can be customized.
Browser
VST plugins, samples and presets can be dragged into the sequencer tracks and mixer effect slots. energyXT2 will autodetect if you drop a VST instrument into the sequencer, create a new MIDI track and connect it to the instruments automatically. Same if you drop a drum sample, a drum track will be created for you, ready to play!
Modular environmnet
energyXT2 offers a modular design, but its up to you if you want to use its features or not. The “Comps” view visualizes all the VST plugins, sequencers and audio inputs/outputs used in your project. In the comps view, you can easely set up energyXT2 as a standalone effect processor. Drop a few effetcs into the comps view, route audio input thru the effect plugins and then to the master out.
DAF plays M'era Luna, announces European tour
Legendary German electro-pop outfit DAF will perform August 10 at the M’era Luna festival in Hildesheim, Germany as a prelude to a European tour set to begin in January 2009. Tour dates include January 7 in Berlin, Germany, January 11 in Zurich, Switzerland and January 24 in Amsterdam, The Netherlands. Visit DAF’s MySpace page for the band’s current tour itinerary.
[youtube=http://youtube.com/watch?v=0-L2AHAbUNw]
In the early 1980’s, Deutsch-Amerikanische Freundschaft was the highly controversial electro-punk bank heading up the roster of the “New German Wave” of politically-motivated rock bands.
The first two D.A.F. albums featured the original four-piece line-up and a range of styles. Some songs on Die Kleinen und die Bösen (The Small Ones and the Evil Ones), featured thrashed guitars, electronic screeching, and hammered drums while Gabi screamed and ululated. The record was widely lauded by the British Music press, and earned the group an early cult following in the UK.
As their sound crystallized into a more rhythmically intense and minimalistic style, Gabi and Robert ejected the other members, who had become superfluous both musically and in terms of the chemistry within the band. On the later albums recorded by the remaining duo, the arrangements were sparse and heavily electronic, the singing evolved from abstract screams and mumbles to a very direct, rhythmic vocal style, and their live performances were delivered with such intensity that a 1980 concert in Düsseldorf had to be stormed by the police to bring the crowd under control.
DATAMASKIN
