Music tech Reviews Software Stories Tech
Mortal FM Kombat: Plogue’s meticulous OPMZ Yamaha emulation totally slaps
We’re awash with emulations at the moment, but this one is on another level. The chip that powered everything from Yamaha’s little-known CX5M computer to the best 80s FM synths and video game masterpieces gets a long-awaited (unofficial) rendition on your computer, and it’s just about perfect — both as a instrument plug-in and an ultra-authentic player for classic games. And where this emulation started was physical, not virtual: a workbench, vintage gear and documentation, research, and physical labor.
Read more
Free emulations of 80s Alesis MIDIVERB II, MicroVerb, in plug-in form
Beloved by digital reverb buffs and shoegaze aficionados, not one but two classic reverbs are now in unofficial plug-in emulations — the MicroVerb and the MIDIVERB II. That includes the full range of MIDIVERB multi-effects, from gated reverbs to chorus and triggered flange, plus the grit and reverse of the Micro. Let’s travel back to the hottest gear of the late 1980s, for free.
Peter Kirn - April 27, 2026
Music tech Software Tech
Massive power, every format: the BB-777 brings back a boombox icon
It was arguably the moment the boombox peaked: the GF-909/GF-777 from Sharp boasted dual cassettes, radio, and massive sound. Now, Bumpboxx has decided to reboot that boom box for 2026, with a modern machine that can do everything — CDs, tapes, radio, USB, Bluetooth connectivity, the works. It could be a holy grail across every generation burned out on soulless streaming and ready to love music all over again.
Peter Kirn - March 27, 2026
Tech
Here’s Laurie Spiegel introducing Music Mouse in the 1980s
Peter Kirn - February 16, 2026
Music tech Software Tech
ANIMEVOX by castpixel is a free retro anime-style sound fx generator
Peter Kirn - January 18, 2026
DIY + Unusual Gaming Music tech Software Tech Web
How Elizabeth Parker wove the score of 1984’s The Living Planet
Peter Kirn - August 28, 2025
Music Music tech Tech
