Elgato’s Stream Deck as a DAW companion; new Reaper controller

Elgato’s Stream Deck, a push-button desktop controller with interactive color keys and software shortcuts, has quietly become an ideal DAW accessory. Take, for example, this thoughtfully designed addition from Granite Coast Studio for the inimitable Cockos Reaper.

ALM records everything to stems, and now mixes, too, in compact modules

It’s Stem Ripper, and its expansion module accomplice, “With Mixer.” Patch it up quick, record individual stems, and perform stereo mixing with aux sends, panning, and even external USB MIDI control. And fit it all in 6HP + 8HP, with clever Eurorack modules from ALM/Busy Circuits.

Peter Kirn - September 13, 2026

Kevin Saunderson teaches a free 909 workshop, online and in Detroit

The best 909 Day reveal yesterday was this: on Saturday, Kevin Saunderson, techno originator and one of the Belleville Three, teaches a free workshop on the 909 with Roland (with Dustin Good). You can tune in online, and until tomorrow, there are in-person slots in Detroit, at Waajeed’s Underground Music Academy.

Peter Kirn - September 10, 2026

Nuclear test equipment inspired this new Eurorack module

Peter Kirn - September 2, 2026

A patchable solar-powered synth with a speaker; birds, hot dogs, and more

Peter Kirn - September 2, 2026

Patience, module from Olivia Artz, scales modulation from seconds to decades

Peter Kirn - September 1, 2026

Optical analog video feedback in a massive, rotating 4K machine

Peter Kirn - August 31, 2026

End-of-summer sales on gear and software

Peter Kirn - August 30, 2026

Playing KORG’s phase8, acoustic synth, with videos (mine and others)

Peter Kirn - August 28, 2026