Zebra 3 is here, a sprawling semi-modular plug-in that runs deep

What if an integrated plug-in instrument could rival even full-blown modulars? That’s the question posed by u-he’s Zebra 3, out now at long last for macOS, Windows, and Linux. It’s unlikely any other soft synth takes on just this much synthesis territory, or with this much depth. From spline-based morphing oscillators to physical modeling and […]

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

Inside the new modules in the free AAS Multiphonics CV-3 v3.1 update

Applied Acoustics Systems’ flagship modular, Multiphonics CV-3, gets four powerful modules in “the FM+ update” out this month. Here’s a dive into what those modules can do — and if you’re pondering picking up CV-3 for the first time, it’s discounted now, too.

Peter Kirn - February 25, 2026