NI’s new Massive XL is nicely overstuffed but easier to morph, mutate, and play

What do you get the music synth user who’s got everything? Here’s what: mutation and generation options that actually lead you into more tweaking, not away from it. Plus goodies from the original Massive and PPG, and some of our favorite NI effects. Massive XL feels like the sequel Massive X wanted to be. Here’s a first hands-on — at just the right time, with a $99 intro price.

Arturia’s new MiniFreak 49 synth is tactile, exploration-friendly: tested

It’s not just some extra keys or minor feature tweaks. Arturia’s MiniFreak 49 has evolved the range into a synthesizer you can freely explore just by playing, not programming. It’s a fusion of tactile experience and sound, right when we need that. Here’s a full hands-on test.

Peter Kirn - October 20, 2026

Baby Roland is back: Boutique JUPITER-08, n/vision wavetable synths

The kawaii look of the mini Rolands in the Boutique series has returned. There’s one vintage remake — the JUPITER-08, this time with full polyphony and then some (up to 32 voices). And there’s something new: the n/vision wavetable synth.

Peter Kirn - October 20, 2026

In Expressive E’s Noisy 2.6 synth, expression everywhere, MIDI to MPE

Peter Kirn - July 23, 2026

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

Peter Kirn - April 21, 2026

The best way to learn Bitwig Grid, Serum 2 is in Japanese from LOBOTIX

Peter Kirn - March 5, 2026

Rage with the machine: Pigments 7 with new filters, new FX, sound features

Peter Kirn - December 16, 2025

ZAVOLOKA’s high-protein live set on the new Waldorf synth is don’t-miss

Peter Kirn - December 11, 2025

Waldorf’s Protein: soul of Microwave in an 8-voice wavetable synth, €329

Peter Kirn - November 27, 2025