Music tech Software Tech
West Coast, with penguins: Aaltoverb on Linux; Aalto 2 coming soon
Madrona Labs’ patchable West Coast synth is one of the most playable, exploration-friendly, unique instruments around — a piece of software to last. And it comes with a reverb companion, now on Linux, too as a free demo you can beta-test. The big news: Aalto 2 is coming this fall for macOS, Windows — and Linux, too.
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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.
Peter Kirn - September 28, 2026
Music tech Reviews Software Stories Tech
Eminently controllable, accessible by design, Sting is now a plug-in
Now this is how to do generative melodies. Add expression. Get control with your hands. Make melodies accessible — including if you’re blind and visually impaired. Sting, the beloved maker of acid melodies and other patterns, is confined to Max for Live no more: now, it’s available as VST3, AU, CLAP / macOS, Windows, Linux.
Peter Kirn - September 8, 2026
Music tech Software Tech
Reason now offers 15 Reason devices, plus Rack Extensions access, for free
Peter Kirn - August 27, 2026
Music tech Software Tech
otophon is a plug-in to play tones inside your head
Peter Kirn - August 14, 2026
Music tech Software Stories Tech
VST is 30 years old, and Steinberg is giving away some of its earliest plugins
Peter Kirn - August 4, 2026
Music tech Software Tech
With audio and VST3 support, Isadora is now a complete interactive canvas
Peter Kirn - July 14, 2026
Motion Music tech Software Stories Tech
