Until we evolve more arms, foot controllers are very necessary. So it’s nice to see a new entry for both software and hardware control, in the form of the Nektar PACER.
Music
Lists aside, these 2024 albums are personal must-listens
Music Reviews Stories December 31, 2024
Saying goodbye to 2024 with music and reflections: David’s picks
Music Reviews Stories December 31, 2024
Tbilisi’s music scene is still out in the streets, defiant
Music December 27, 2024
Get lost in a Dasha Rush ambience, with hypnotic visuals to match
With all that sound out there, you’d better make your musical statement a strong one. And why not add the kinds of visuals we see when we shut our eyes and listen?
Make Noise are turning a classic 1972 synthesis book into a video series
Even as modular synths make a comeback, the definitive work on the topic languishes out of print since its 1972 publication. But now, one synth maker is translating its ideas to video.
From Argentina, spectacular custom controllers and a DIY platform
Latin America has long been a source of creativity in electronic music. But a bright spot in growing its own electronic hardware comes from Yaeltex, and their vision of unique custom instruments.
Universal Audio get two Neve preamps – in two knobs
Turn a knob, dial in a sound – that particular magic associated with specific hardware is showing up in software, too. Or such is the promise of the latest Universal Audio mic model.
Oi, Kant! is a raunchy, glitchy, out-of-control patchable groove machine
Artist Ewa Justka has built a drum/bass machine that’s as chaotic as our times – a dirty, feature-packed, mayhem generator. And you can buy or build one for yourself, too.
Upcoming Dreadbox Medusa combines analog synth, grid sequencer
The boutique maker of synths, effects, and modular are teasing something new for May. And it looks like this compact analog synth is getting a grid sequencer, too.
Watch a VU meter turn into percussion, control voltage
Here’s a fun hack: a vintage-style meter needle turns into a source of percussion and signal for a modular.
This custom TR-09 controller is also a great starting point for DIYers
Sometimes, when manufacturers don’t give us exactly what we need, a wonderful thing happens: people invent something to make up the difference.
Control and unlock hidden features on Roland’s TR-08 (the small one)
While everyone is chasing after Roland’s new TR-8S (see our hands-on test), there are lots of the little TR-08s around. This tool will help you get more out of the Boutique 808.