SP-404MKII side chain compression; #404day videos

SP-404MKII version 5.50 brings two long-awaited features — side chain compression and exFAT SD compatibility. Here are those details, plus a #404day round-up of the fabulous videos you’re making. #404day has come to a conclusion in Japan — but that means my feed is alive with the sound of Japanese (mostly) 404 videos! Y’all always […]

Michigan Synth Works has an open-source 303 processor and a new kit

Call it the Bride of x0xb0x. Michigan Synth Works today teased a new, Arduino-compatible, open-source 303 processor, plus a full DIY kit. They’re both affordable ways to build your own all-analog, modern TB-303 with current components. And it feels like the early spirit of the open x0xb0x is back. The x0xb0x is the device that […]

Peter Kirn - March 3, 2026

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.

Peter Kirn - March 3, 2026

Best of show: walk NAMM with us in a gear-mas gallery

Peter Kirn - February 3, 2026

CR-78, more BOSS pedals: Roland adds more software for this Mad World

Peter Kirn - January 21, 2026

Autodafe has an explainer on getting JE-8086 up and running

Peter Kirn - December 31, 2025

A free emulator of Roland JP-8000 and the love of supersaws and trance

Peter Kirn - December 30, 2025

Roland’s pedal concept uses AI to let you process everything with anything

Peter Kirn - November 12, 2025

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

Peter Kirn - October 1, 2025