It’s the sound and expression of a modular synth, but you can mix it with guitar sounds and play it with the guitar techniques you already know. Here’s the latest no-extra-cost addition to MOD Devices do-it-all mobile effects boxes.

Ableton Live’s improvisatory clip- and device-based interface make the software feel like it could be as natural for visuals as it is for sound. But EboSuite 2.0’s plug-ins – some 54 of them – are the first that make the “V” side as complete as “A.”

The legendary Greek composer and electronic musician Vangelis Papathanassiou is the latest of a generation to leave us in 2022.

The OB-X8 was live in action at Berlin’s Superbooth – one big highlight was getting to see Dave Smith, Marcus Ryle, and team. But more sounds are coming out, as well.

It’s spring, it’s Superbooth – modular is in the air this May. So you’ve got your modular, and you’re an Ableton Live user – now’s a great time to revisit how to use the two together effectively.

At the beginning of May, The MIDI Association quietly announced MPE 1.1. What’s new? Absolutely nothing. It’s the same spec. So why the new version number? They listened to your questions, issues, and feedback, and made the whole document easier to read, understand, and implement. And that might be better than any new feature.

My favorite thing from Superbooth, the one thing I’d pull out a wallet right away and get? It’s none other than Dreadbox’s utterly brutal-sounding, wildly fun analog semi-modular groove synth for Eurorack or desktop.

A grid, sequencing, standalone operation – Polyend’s new Play, previewed at Superbooth, now looks like a familiar concept. But what makes Play look worth considering is right there in the name: fun and immediacy are the focus.

That’ll be just the right toppings. The latest from our friends at Bastl Instruments is an 8HP digital oscillator with hybrid synthesis and tons of patching options – three oscillators in one.

Spanning dance sets to gorgeous ambient music, mixing instruments and electronics and even some live dance (with JakoJako), here’s a window into the live sets from Superbooth Berlin in the fall as we gear up for this week’s spring edition.