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.
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Novation Launch Control finally brings back the smart, little encoder box
The best thing about Launch Control XL is that it has faders. The best thing about Launch Control is that it doesn’t — and fits into a small space. It really is that simple, if contradictory, thanks to intelligent features shared between the two.
Peter Kirn - March 3, 2026
Gear Motion Music tech Tech
On 303 Day, acid bassline love abounds, and some freebies, too
Roland is fairly quiet on this 303 Day, but in the maelstrom of terrible news, it was a relief to see the Japanese music community out in force. This is what we really strive for: a world where we can just make bassline noises all day. Here are some highlights, and even some free Max for Live love if you need some acid therapy.
Modor DR-2 – a delicious, overlooked drum machine – adds trig conditions
Peter Kirn - February 6, 2026
Gear Music tech Tech
Best of show: walk NAMM with us in a gear-mas gallery
Peter Kirn - February 3, 2026
Gear Music tech Stories Tech
Soundbites: the music inventions of NAMM, Buchla and Friends
Nadia Says - January 30, 2026
Gear Modular-Analog Music tech Stories Tech
As much triggering as you can handle: Noise Engineering Multi Repetitor
Peter Kirn - January 22, 2026
Gear Modular-Analog Music tech Tech
