Master Class: Roland TR-8S

With the introduction of the TR-8S, Roland not only advanced the popular TR-8’s sequencing tools and iconic sound, but added sample import (via SD card) and expanded its editing features to a point where it truly is an instrument in its own right. Between performance-oriented patterns and sophisticated sound design amenities, you’ll get the most from this beast once you understand how to mold its sonic resources to match your artistic identity.

I'm also testing the waters for expanding this blog to include downloadable presets and examples for selected educational material. If you already own a TR-8S, below is a link to two original kits (with patterns) based on custom analog drum samples I created last month.

Master Class Link: https://www.musicradar.com/how-to/how-to-master-the-roland-tr-8s

Download the TR-8S kit/patterns  [Instructions included]

Master Class: The Minimoog Paradigm

Minimoog Model D

The synth that started it all.

Make no mistake, the Minimoog Model D was the synthesizer that kickstarted our industry. Its architecture has been the basis for countless analog monosynths to follow and its sound remains so distinctive that Moog recently reissued a circuit-perfect, limited-edition version for those with a devotion to authenticity.

But the modern era has brought us software and hardware versions of the Minimoog architecture that update the synth’s essential characteristics in ways that reflect the march of technology since 1971. For example, the Arturia Mini V has modulation amenities that would be impossible to do with analog hardware alone, whereas the Roland SE-02 offers far more flexibility than the original. And ApeSoft Mood, an iOS take on the Mini, approaches the original’s iconic filter behavior while adding sampling and FM to its array of Moogish oscillators. Consequently, if you’re in the mood for a Model D but can’t afford the real thing, these hardware and software interpretations can get you there, but with greater flexibility than the original and at a price that won’t break the bank.

My Music Radar masterclass shows you how to get the most out of of each of these synths.

LINK: https://www.musicradar.com/how-to/how-to-get-the-best-out-of-the-moog-model-d-and-3-emulations

Master Class: Korg Gadget

In 2017, Korg expanded Gadget’s range by introducing an identical version for Mac OS, bringing its intuitive approach to the desktop. The full install of Gadget for Mac is bundled with more than 30 plug-ins, including the recording gadgets Zurich and Rosario, as well as a virtualized collection of their most iconic hardware synths.

Though many of Gadget’s synths are so immediately approachable that there’s no real need for tutorials, others can look a bit cryptic to new users. Even if you’re an experienced synthesist, there are nuances in each of the instruments that go beyond the obvious functionality. So, for this Music Radar master class, we’ll dig deeper into the more sophisticated gadgets, exposing possibilities that may not be immediately apparent.

LINK: https://www.musicradar.com/how-to/the-definitive-guide-on-how-to-use-korg-gadget-for-mac

Vintage Synth Heaven

Earlier this month, ADSR invited me to join them for a tour of Austin's Switched On Music, one of the nation's top vintage synth boutiques—and the original stomping grounds of Michael Stein (Stranger Things, S U R V I V E).

Here's the video, including some very rare and iconic synthesizers, as well as a visit to their humongous warehouse of classic instruments in the process of being lovingly restored.

Environments

When launching the Scapes project in August, I invited readers to offer insights into previous examples of synthesized environments and environmental recordings.

One of the responses startled me, as I certainly recall seeing the Environments album series at the library when I was a kid.

I say “startled” because in researching the enhanced field recordings of Irv Teibel, I discovered that he was also from Buffalo, NY, then later relocated to Austin, TX.

Synchronicity is curious stuff.

Here’s a link to the story of Teibel and his recordings:
http://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/the-man-who-recorded-tamed-and-then-sold-nature-sounds-to-america

How 22 Classic Synths Fail

One of the reasons I’ve been moving my studio away from vintage gear in favor of detailed recreations that replicate their sound digitally (like the Roland Boutiques and System-8) or modern analog reissues of classics (Korg Odyssey and MS-20 Mini) is that vintage gear is expensive to maintain in a pristine state.

Of course, some diehard analog fans will remain determined to buff and polish (and repair) their classic synths, which is commendable. In fact, I’m a little jealous that they have the time and resources to keep up with that.

With those fans in mind, this piece from Reverb.com covers the specific component failures of 22 iconic instruments. Whether you’re an owner or just covet one of these rarities, it’s a great read for synth nerds.

LINK: The Most Common Maintenance Issues of 22 Classic Synths (and How to Fix Them)

Updated 09.30.17: Because of the file size of the above article, Apple News on older units will occasionally crash. If so, choose "Open in Safari". This seems to be an isolated case because of the lack of page breaks in the original article. I'll be more vigilant about this in future posts.