Way Out Ware’s Jim Heintz demos iSample 2 (App Store link), and makes some pretty freaky sounds along the way.

Here’s what’s new in iSample 2:

• sample trimming with pinch to zoom, two finger scrolling and scrubbing
• sample length quantization
• loop positioning/viewing screen
• mixer
• delay effect
• a reverb effect,
• step sequence pattern editor with 12 separate pattern buffers
• a song mode that allows you to build songs out of patterns
• WIFI sharing
• tempo control with tap to set tempo

iSample 2 retails for $9.99.

via wayoutware:

http://budurl.com/isamplevid

This is a straight take without video edits of an iSample 2.0 demo session by Jim Heintz. It was done using the built in sample bank called Chillbeat 86 that ships with iSample 2.0. This demo shows only a small fraction of the features new to iSample 2.0.

iSample 2.0 is available at the Apple App Store by clicking the following link: http://budurl.com/isamplevid

Native Instruments has released Maschine 1.1, a free software update for its groove production studio.

The new version optimizes the workflow and increases the creative potential of Maschine through new MIDI I/O capabilities, support for the REX loop format, enhanced controller interaction, and more.

To allow producers to easily incorporate external gear into their Maschine projects, the new version adds MIDI I/O functionality. Hardware synthesizers and similar devices can now be controlled from the Maschine sequencer both through polyphonic tracks and from individual monophonic sounds within a Group, while a special “Batch Setup” function makes it easy to set up MIDI input configurations in existing projects. Maschine 1.1 also adds support for REX files, enabling users to include pre-sliced loops in their projects that sync to tempo automatically. Any pattern in Maschine can also be directly exported as an audio file into a host sequencer or other audio software through a convenient drag-and-drop feature.

Further enhancements in Maschine version 1.1 include additional slicing options, advanced scene triggering, new metronome and record count-in options, extended controller integration for parameter adjustment and file saving, and a wide range of minor optimizations.

The 1.1 update is now available as free download for all owners of Maschine.

Kyle Evans created this electronically modified digeridoo.

Details below.

via yakthekyle:

I created this instrument to experiment in the combination of the organic sound qualities of a didgeridoo with the advanced signal processing capabilities of modern computer programming and sound synthesis.

This custom built didgeridoo features externally mounted modules that allow the performer to process and manipulate the sound of the instrument in real time. All control data is transmitted wirelessly via blue tooth and is controlling several audio processes created in a custom-built software environment.

OT: The Halloween Scream Machine (App Store link) is a free iPhone app for Halloween.

It plays back creepy sounds and soundtracks, and it also lets you record and play back custom samples.

Combine these scary sound effects with the Halloween dark atmospheric music mix and get read to scare the neighborhood……

This video gives an overview of what’s new in Native Instruments Komplete 6.

via NativeInstruments

Free Windows Music Software: Artifake_Labs has introduced a free software synthesizer, RedTron_MKV, that emulates the Mellotron MKV (essentially a double M400), one of the rarest Mellotrons ever made.

Features :

• Realistic user interface.
• Six sound types : 3 Violins, 8-Voice Choir, Flute, Brass, String Section, Cello.
• “Loop” and “Non-Loop” modes : as the original “Mellotron”, each sound is eight seconds long but you can switch to “Loop Mode” and allows the samples to loop continuously.
• Layer possibilities & independent parameters for layer A & B:
  • Volume, Tone, Reverb, Delay, Pan, Octave, Note & Attack parameters.
  • Delay effect (Amount, Time, Feedback & Pan parameters).
  • Reverb effect (Mix, Width, Size & Damp parameters).
• Pitch control
• Can be used as Soundfont Player to mix any .sf2 file with “Tron sounds” or to extend the sound palette.

Download from the Artifake_Labs site.

Boston based virtual instrument manufacturer SONiVOX has introduced Sampla – Hip Hop Production Sampler, a new virtual sampler plug-in for MAC and PC designed for fast sampling and beat creation for hip hop producers.

Features:

• MPC style editing & slicing for easy instrument & beat creation
• Imports Wav, Acid, Broadcast Wav, Aiff, & MP3 Format Files
  Easy to use record functionality for real time sampling
• Over 250 factory preset instruments and pad layouts
• 16 user assignable pads
• Tempo Sync Stereo Delay, EQ, and Chorus Effects
• Assignable filter section with 10 filter types
• Graphic waveform display with zoom, click, and drag functionality
• Midi Learn & Save functionality, Sampla is instantly compatible with any
• MIDI keyboard or pad control
• Pad-Specific Variable Resolution Note Repeat and Pattern Arpeggiation Mode
• PC Standalone, VST and RTAS Compatibility.
• MAC Standalone, AU, VST, and RTAS Compatibility.

Sampla is available now with a MSRP of $149 and an introductory street price of $99.

Click here to view the embedded video.

Description:

Sampla’s unique design bridges the gap between MPC style sampling and the computer based virtual instrument environment. Sampla allows users to easily record, slice, loop, and assign (keymap) their ownrecorded samples as well as any of their own wav, acid, aiff, and mp3 samples.

In addition to the flexibility provided by Sampla’s sampler engine, Sampla’s “Learn Mode” allows users to interface their MIDI pad controllers and controller keyboards directly with Sampla.

Sampla is packed with a diverse and extensive factory sound bank, all recorded and programmed by SONiVOX’s award winning sounddesign team, with over 250 high end instrument presets and pad layouts.

Included are acoustic and electronic drumkits, basses, keyboards, leads, guitars, strings, brass, pads, vocals, symphonic construction kits, scensorship bleeps and blips, as well as a selection of loops from the SONiVOX LoopLine series.

This is a demo of the quite awesome and relatively inexpensive Stylophone Beatbox.

Stylophone Beatbox Features:

• Three new sounds: Beatbox, Percussion and Steel Drums
• Record Loop and Playback function
• Tempo Adjust
• Volume control
• MP3 function – play along to any music – includes two way adapter

Description:

The Stylophone pocket synthesizer steps into the future with the all retro classic instrument taking the next leap on the evolutionary ladder. The result is the rocking Stylophone Beatbox delivering the coolest sounds of the new millenium.

The Stylophone Beatbox is available for $25.50 at 100milligrams.

Stylophone II Beatbox with MC Zani

Features 3 all new exclusive sounds – beatbox with MC Zani, percusssion, and steel drums.

Also new is the record and scratch functions that allow you to playback loops of your work. Another feature is the tempo adjust switch for beat pitch control during loop playback.

The MP3 input feature means it is also possible to syncopate your scratches along with your favourite tracks. Plug in your device and lay down some dope style to your favourites.

Product Details

• For ages 7+
• Requires 3x AA batteries – not supplied
• Original features
• Packaging (approx) 27cm(W) x 15cm(D) x 6cm(H)
• Product (approx) 15.5cm(W) x 10cm(D) x 4cm(H)
• Headphone socket

via streetvalueltd:

Wordwide release – the new Stylophone Beatbox with MC Zani.

Native Instruments has released an excellent free video tutorial series (above) on Maschine, their hardware/software music production workstation.

The Maschine tutorials cover:

• An overview
• Live recording
• Step recroding
• FX and automation
• Sampling with Maschine
• Beat slicing
• Scenes & performing
• Exporting audio from maschine
• Software sequencer integration
• Using Maschine as a MIDI controller
• Controlling Traktor Pro with Maschine
• Controlling Ableton Live with Maschine

Kontakt 4: This set of Native Instruments videos take a look at Kontakt 4, including:

• an overview of what’s new in Native Instruments Kontakt 4;
• the new Authentic Expression Technology of Kontakt; and
• how to find the sound you are looking for in the Kontakt 4 browser.

This video tutorial looks at getting started with Renoise, a music production environment for Windows, Mac and Linux.

Features include automatic plug-in delay compensation, support for VST and AU plugins, multi-core load balancing, MIDI I/O, audio recording, 4096 PPQ resolution and parameter automation.

via connerbw:

Renoise tutorial for beginners. Thanks to Ron from Indamixx.com for the samples. Count the amount of times I say “alright” and win a prize.

This is a quick audio demo of the first new Vako Orchestron title since 1975, Marimba.

Optigan.com is now taking pre-orders for this disc, which will retail for $99. The initial run will be limited to 25 copies, and they will require 15 pre-orders before going to press.

via peahix:

This is a recording of an acoustic marimba from the original Optigan/Orchestron master tapes. This particular sound never made it onto any Optigan or Orchestron disc… until now! P

lease note that my Orchestron is not in the greatest health, and I also live close to some radio towers that cause some pretty bad interference. Hum, buzz, radio intereference and the occasional scratchy key contact should be disregarded in your evaluation of the quality of the marimba sound.

“Minimalism” is sort of a generic working title. It’s very specifically and shamelessly Philip Glass Ensemble (circa late 70s / early 80s) style chord patterns. But I don’t want to call it “Philip Glass” for potential legal reasons.

Maybe I’ll call it something a little more clever like “MNMLSM” or “Half Full” or “Fill Up Glass” ok stop me before it’s too late… if anyone has any title suggestions, send ‘em my way!

This disc is intended to be more versatile than simply for churning out fake Glass riffs. Set at a slower speed, it can be used in a more ambient way, and I’ve specifically worked out the voicings and special effects tabs to allow for good sounding extended chords when you press more than one button (ie, Cmaj + Emin = Cmaj7). Also, the rhythms are varied enough that you can get some cool polyrhythmic effects, etc. At this point, the keyboard sound is going to be a solo female voice, singing vowels from the various solfege syllables.

The Optigan is a vintage sample playback keyboard that uses optical discs to generate sound.

This is a video demo of the Simmons Digital ClapTrap, a digital sample playback percussion instrument.

via zibbybone:

Quick run though of a rare percussion synthezier.

Want to buy a new Mellotron?

Streetly Electronics has announced initial deliveries of its M4000 Mellotron cycling tape replay keyboard instrument.

The new instrument improves on the classic Mellotron M400 design of the 1970s to offer as standard a total of 24 individual tape sound sets, plus an additional 16 two-sound combinations, with programmable attack, a much lighter keyboard feel, improved playing height, and an air filtration system and positively-pressurized cabinet.

The new M4000 Mellotron is priced starting at £4,900 (approximately $8,000).

Details below.

The Streetly Electronics M4000 Mellotron

The new Streetly Electronics M4000 is the first cycling tape replay keyboard instrument to be manufactured anywhere for nearly 40 years.

Unlike the nearly four-decades-old M400 and present day reproductions, which offer only three sets of sounds, the M4000 incorporates an improved tape cycling mechanism based on the original Mellotron Mk. I, Mk. II and M300 design. Eight “stations” that each includes three sets of prerecorded sounds (designated A, B, and C) may be individually selected. Each of those three sound sets, playable across the 35-note (G ??? F) keyboard, may be individually selected or blended with the immediately adjacent set (A+B or B+C).

The M4000 is delivered as standard with 24 sound sets selected from Streetly Electronics’ library of instrument and vocal recordings, which includes the backup masters of the original Mellotron tapes as well as more recent additions. Customers may optionally order tapes incorporating their own custom sounds for an additional fee.

Modern day electro-mechanical improvements to the tape replay and cycling mechanisms, which include a new custom motor and non-magnetic, stainless steel capstan, have also allowed the addition of a new “inching” feature to the M4000. This allows the performer to alter the start position — and therefore the attack — of any sound set by inching the tape across the playback heads to their desired location. The start position for any sound set may be selected on the fly or stored as a preset for future use. In addition to inching, sound set selection, and cycling controls, the top panel also offers volume, tone and pitch adjustment.

The height of the keyboard relative to the older M400 has been raised by five inches to provide a comfortable standing playing position. The single manual keyboard most closely replicates the action of the Mk. II, considered to be the best of all Mellotron models. The M4000 keyboard’s light and very playable feel is a revelation.

The signal-to-noise ratio of the M4000 is optimized by the use of the replay amplifier and other electronics from Streetly Electronics’ later model M400 and Novatron instruments. The instrument output automatically mutes when the tapes are cycling between stations.

Smoke and dust could very quickly foul the playback heads and damage the tapes of the old Mellotron and Novatron machines. The new M4000 eliminates these problems through the implementation of its unique Filtron air filtration system and a gently pressurized cabinet, which prevents the ingestion of any unwanted airborne agents such as stage smoke.

The standard M4000 is £4,900 (approximately $8,000) plus shipping from the U.K., customs duties and delivery charges to its final destination. A roadcase is available for £450 (approximately $735). Prices for custom tape sounds and non-standard cabinet finishes can be quoted on request.

Streetly Electronics, the U.K. company that originated and manufactured the Mellotron (and later the Novatron) beginning in 1962 for artists such as the Moody Blues, the Beatles, King Crimson, Pink Floyd, Genesis, and many, many others, closed in 1986. John Bradley — son of one of the three brothers who co-founded Streetly Electronics — and Martin Smith revived the company in 1997 in order to maintain and refurbish existing instruments, and are now manufacturing the M4000, the first cycling tape replay keyboard instrument to be manufactured anywhere for nearly 40 years.

via Gearjunkies

This is an official overview/intro video for the new Korg microSampler.

via KorgUSAVideos:

Introducing the microSAMPLER, from Korg. This dynamic, compact instrument extends the micro family with some of Korg’s most powerful sampling tools and effects, combined with 37 great-feeling Natural Touch mini-keys. Use the included power supply, or install 6 AA batteries for the ultimate in portable sampling.

For more information, please visit http://www.korg.com/microsampler .

Korg has released official specs for the new Korg microSampler sampling keyboard.

The microSampler offers multi-mode sampling, resampling, Pattern Sequencing and effects in a microsized keyboard.

The Korg microSampler offers sixteen-voice polyphony, reverse playback, editing operations such as Normalize and Truncate, and a Time Stretch feature that lets you change the tempo without affecting the pitch. Selectable sample rates of 48 kHz, 24 kHz, 12 kHz, and down to 6 kHz let you sample at rates beyond CD clarity or add in that Lo-Fi vintage vibe.

Each bank contains 36 samples (a maximum of approximately 160 seconds of recording time for monaural samples at a 48 kHz sampling rate) and sixteen patterns of sequence data; the microSAMPLER lets you store eight such banks in internal memory.

The Keyboard mode takes a single sample and assigns it chromatically across the keys for instant playability. With its recessed controls, bright LEDs and informative display, the microSAMPLER is designed to be fun to use and easy to operate.

The microSAMPLER Compact Sampling Keyboard will be available November 1, 2009, with a U.S. MSRP of $750.00.

Details below.

Keyboard:

37 Natural-Touch mini-keys, velocity sensing

Sampling Specs:

• Sampling Rates: 48 kHz, 24 kHz, 12 kHz, 6 kHz
• Bank Structure: 36 Samples per Bank (160 Seconds max.)
• Available Banks: 9 Total (8 User +1 ROM)

Polyphony:

16 voices

Sampling Modes:

One-Shot; Gate; Loop; Key Gate; Auto-Next
Resample in any mode

Keyboard Modes:

Sampling Mode: 36 Sample Playback Keys + 1 Audio Input
Keyboard Mode: Single sample assigned chromatically across the keyboard

Effects:

Structure: 1 Master FX
Effect Types: 21 (Compressor, Filter, 4-Band EQ, Distortion, Reverb, Delay, L/C/R Delay, Auto-Panning
Delay, Modulation Delay, Tape Echo, Chorus, Flanger, Vibrato, Phaser, Tremolo, Ring Modulation, Grain
Shifter, Pitch Shifter, Talking Modulator, Looper)

Pattern Sequencer:

Patterns: 16 Patterns per bank; x 8 Banks
Note Count: 64,000 notes total; 16,000 per bank
Resolution: 480 ppq (parts per quarter note)

Audio Connections:

Input: ¼” Jack (rear); XLR Balanced (top); with Mic/Line switch; Level knob
Outputs: L/Mono, R; ¼” unbalanced
Phones: ¼” Stereo Jack

Other Connections:

MIDI: In, Out
USB: Type B

Display:

Custom LCD; 37 LEDs above keys

Power Supply:

9 VDC (AC Adapter); 6 AAA Alkaline batteries – approx. 4 hours (sold separately)

Dimensions:

W x D x H: 20.31″ x 9.37″ x 2.56″
Weight: 4.19 lbs

microSAMPLER Editor Librarian Software:

Operating Requirements:
PC: Microsoft Windows XP (SP3 or later); Windows Vista (SP1 or later); USB port
MAC: OSX Version 10.4 or later; USB port

Swiss Army Sampling

Too many instruments simply offer sampling as an added feature. The microSAMPLER is all about sampling, in every creative form. Five distinct sampling methods allow you to work the way you want, to get the results you need. The microSAMPLER offers traditional One-Shot and Loop sampling, plus a number of creative sampling modes – Loop, Key Gate and Auto-Next. When it comes to sampling, the microSAMPLER has it all.

* Loop sampling for recording grooves and phrases, drum loops, etc.

* One-Shot sampling for grabbing and triggering single events such as drums, etc.

* Gate sampling for playing a sound musically across the keyboard

* Auto-Next sampling for capturing phrases as multiple samples. For grabbing a groove as separate samples on individual keys, choose the AUTO NEXT mode and use Tap Tempo to match the BPM of the source material. The microSAMPLER will automatically divide the sample equally across multiple keys. Each key can be set to capture anything from a 64th note to a full two measures. This method lets you automatically perform the same type of sampling as KEY GATE.

* Key Gate sampling is best for grabbing multiple samples from the same source. With Key Gate, you can take multiple samples from the same source or phrase and assign them to different keys as you play them! The individual keys assign the sample and enable recording all at the same time. This intuitive method of sampling, editing, and mapping in a single step is fun, interactive and fast.

In addition, there’s a resampling function that lets you play existing layered samples processed by an effect and played by the pattern sequencer – and capture it all as a new sample. You can even sample while playing, allowing the sampling process itself to become part of your expressive performance.

Sample anytime, anywhere – or anything!

The microSAMPLER can run on batteries, so you can perform on the go – or capture samples anywhere. Both line input and mic input are provided to allow a broad range of input sources including electronic musical instruments, CD, and voice. A gooseneck microphone is included so you can capture sounds with ease. The convenient caddies (located beside the mic jack) provide a cradle for your portable MP3/audio player when using it as a sample source. Truly, the world is yours to sample anytime and anyplace.

Pattern Possibilities

The pattern sequencer uses an overdub operating style that lets you continually layer your performances. You can switch between patterns during playback for seamless performances. Up to sixteen patterns (16,000 notes per pattern, or a maximum 64,000 notes) can be stored in each bank.

The KAOSS Effect(s)

Developed for Korg’s KAOSS PAD series, the effect engine serves up a great selection of effects – so important when editing samples. The twenty-one effects include not only traditional delay and chorus, but also ring modulator and grain shifter, and even a Looper that’s derived from the Loop Recording feature of the KAOSSILATOR Dynamic Phrase Synthesizer. The effects can be applied to any sound while resampling, allowing the effects to be used over and over again for more sonic expression.

Made to be Played

The microSAMPLER features our new Natural Touch micro keyboard, offering greatly enhanced playability and expressive power. By adjusting the proportion of the black keys and white keys, we’ve made chords easier to finger, and the touch has been improved so that rapid phrases can be played more easily – and with less fatigue. The box-shaped keys project a sense of quality, and also allow smoother glides and smears. The controllers you need for an exciting performance are laid out on the panel for intuitive operation. The status of the samples assigned to each key (and the item being edited) is indicated by the lit state of the LEDs running along the top of the keyboard, ensuring excellent visibility even on stage.

USB-eautiful

By using the free editor/librarian software for the microSAMPLER, you can manage a gigantic sample library that’s all your own. You can back up sample and pattern sequence data to your computer via USB, or load samples and patterns back in just as easily. . Importing and exporting of WAV/AIFF data on your computer is also supported. The possibilities are endless…

Sneak Preview: This is a unofficial preview of the Korg microSampler.

See the video in the comments for a demo of the Korg microSampler in action.

Here are the unofficial specs (thanks Rich!):

• 37 key (Natural Touch Mini Keyboard with Velocity) \
• 8 user bank (A ~ H), 1 ROM bank
• 5 types of sampling (LOOP / ONE SHOT / GATE / AUTO NEXT / KEY GATE)
• Sample rates of 48kHz – 24kHz – 12kHz – 6kHz
• Approximately 160 seconds per one bank (Mono / 48kHz sampling rate at 159.7 seconds)
• Up to 14 voice poly (stereo / mono regardless)
• 64,000 note sequencer (one per bank notes (16,000 notes max in one pattern))
• 96 ticks / quarter note resolution (real-time recording)
• MIDI IN, OUT and USB
• DC9V or alkaline 6 x AA batteries = giving 3 hours battery life approximately
• 516 (W) x 238 (D) x 65 (H) mm
• Weight of 1.9kg
• Software editor for Windows: Microsoft Windows XP SP3 or later, Microsoft Windows Vista SP1 or later Mac: Mac OS X 10.4 or later

Official specs and pricing aren’t available yet for the Korg microSampler – but it looks like it will be an interesting new sampling keyboard.

via FutureMusic

Native Instruments has released Kontakt 4, the latest version of its mega sampler, featuring a larger sample library, expanded convolution effects and new “authentic expression” technology.

Details below.

KONTAKT 4 will be availble on October 1st, 2009., priced at $399 / 379 €.

New features in KONTAKT 4:

• The new Authentic Expression Technology sees KONTAKT 4 radically redefining the authentic reproduction of acoustic instruments with all their dynamics and articulations, while adding completely new options for creative sound design. In addition to the traditional way of sampling different volume levels of an instrument statically, AET is able to capture specific spectral characteristics of samples and gradually apply them to another samples in real-time, allowing you to seamlessly “morph” between different instruments’ characteristics. This breakthrough allows for a new level in expression and realism when playing a sampled instrument.
• An extra 10 Gigabytes of new material enrich the KONTAKT library.
• Expanded Convolution Effect Library – KONTAKT 4 comes with more than 300 new and professionally recorded impulse responses from a wide rang of rooms, concert halls, churches, speakers etc, to add super-realistic reverbs to your instruments or the sonic characteristics of high-quality hardware equipment (amps, speakers, hardware reverbs etc.). The new impluse response samples are provided by Echochamber, Studiodevices and Acousticas.
• IMPROVED PERFORMANCE VIEWS provide custom control panels, that make Instrument-specific settings available without having to switch to Edit mode. In KONTAKT 4, a much larger control panel is available so each instrument has more important parameters accessible, as well as giving each instrument a distinctive feel through the easy-on-the-eye graphics.
• The enhanced KONTAKT Script Processor gives many more options for designing custom Performance Views and for controlling other KONTAKT areas such as the master section (when writing ‘multi scripts’).
• The complete KONTAKT 4 library has been pre-tagged for your convenience. You can also create custom attributes to tag your instruments according to your own criteria. Attribute-based browsing works for Instruments, Multis, Banks, Groups, Presets, and Samples.
• New Lossless Sample Compression format ‘NCW’ with real-time encoding – reducing the size of samples by up to 50%. Instruments with high disk streaming load, such as Grand Pianos, benefit from the fact that less data has to be read from hard disk. Note that the complete KONTAKT library is delivered in uncompressed WAV format – the Lossless Sample Compression is just an option for your choice when you save instruments.

Sunday Synth Jam. Plastic Stars is a synth fest, via mik300z:

inspired by some great analogue percussion from the akai s3000 sampler., i hope you like this electronica jam, got it done and dusted in about 3 hours,…:) Bass; Juno 106Drums: akai s3000Analogue strings: Juno 6synth lead : ESQ 1arpeggiator : MicrokorgFX;;Korg x5opening voices : Juno G