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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.

New, playful arpeggiator features for Sequential Take 5, Oberheim TEO-5

The 5-voice Sequential and Oberheim hybrid analog/digital synths each got an OS update last week, and their playful new arpeggiator features are a reminder of why we love both brands. Think ten new arp modes and a dizzying new feature called “whiplash,” plus other new firmware features.

Peter Kirn - November 10, 2025

Gear Music tech Tech

What to know about the Roland TR-1000, from voices to slicing to samples

Roland’s new flagship drum machine leaked everywhere. But we’ve got details on what’s new under the hood, including specifics on analog voices, expanded ACB modeling and other digital features, and new sampling powers, direct from the source. You wanted a new monster from Japan? You got it.