In episode 3 of the Get To Know Your Gear series, the guys from Blorp Corp get to know/pimp the Universal Audio LA-610 Mk II Vacuum Tube Microphone/Instrument/Line Preamp.

Metasonix TM-1 SE Vacuum-Tube Waveshaper and Ring Modulator demo

via bostich1:

Point Loma (bostich) jamming.

instruments: Metasonix TM-1 SE Vacuum-Tube Waveshaper and Ring Modulator

Roland TR-606Mutator

http://www.myspace.com/bostichpointloma

http://www.myspace.com/tijuanasoundmachine

From the tail end of Gearwire’s 2009 NAMM coverage comes this show video of Eric Barbour’s new Metasonix KV100 Assblaster.

Regular Synthtopia visitors know that we like to protect our readers’ sensibilities, so we’ll put this as delicately as possible: the Assblaster puts the anal in analog.

The KV-100 contains the basic preamp stage of the discontinued Metasonix TM-7 Scrotum Smasher, driving the waveshaping (pulser) and ring modulation functions of the discontinued TM-1 (minus the ring-modulator carrier oscillator). These two sections drive a VCO which was derived from the discontinued Metasonix TM-3.

As you can see from the video, the Assblaster features graphics that complement its name.

If you’ve had a chance to try out the Assblaster, leave a comment with your thoughts!

via gearwire

Ready to control your synthesizer with a blowtorch?

This video documents a proof of concept test for the Thermatron, a vacuum tube synthesizer controlled by a flame, created and built by Lorin Edwin Parker at Electric Western.

The right mixture of gas, air pressure, high voltage, chemical ions and heat vary the flow of current through a flame. This current feeds into the grid and / or plate of vacuum tubes controlling an Electric Western Phantastron Synthesizer.

About The Thermatron:

The Thermatron is essentially a voltage controlled oscillator and wave shaper controlled by the action of a flame. This is possible because electricity can be conducted through a flame. This is not a new discovery, in fact the electrical properties of flame have been known for hundreds of years and well studied. For example, many hot water heaters have a sensor that detects flame by sensing the current inserted through the gas flame (if the gas flame goes out, the current does not reach the sensor and the heater knows that the flame is out).

It’s not as simple as lighting a fire and sticking it into the input of a synthesizer or a speaker, though. There are a number of things going on here and the impedance of the flame (how much electricity it conducts) depends upon air pressure, chemicals (gas and ionic environment), heat, applied voltage, surface area, etc. A propane flame alone is a poor conductor and does not react as well until more ions are introduced (you see that I add a chemical mixture which introduces ions to the flame like salt in water). The added ions allow the current to flow from point A to B much more easily.

Also, the hotter the flame and electrodes get, the better the conductor. This is because there is simply more energy in the system, more ions whizzing around faster, and more plasma. Within the flame there is some plasma (which is highly energized gas which gives off its electrons and conducts quite well), but only a small amount compared to the plasma generated in an argon gas tube, for example. The addition of voltage, or electrical potential through the electrodes also facilitates the creation of a more energetic flame-conductor and donates electrons to the mix.

So, as the flame heats everything up, including the added ions and metal electrodes, the whole space becomes more energetic and conductive. This space, like the space within a vacuum tube, can conduct electricity, so the 200+ volts applied to the top electrode are attracted toward the bottom electrode. Only a small number of electrons actually make it through this flame environment,though, because it has a high electrical impedance. The current which does conduct is on the order of micro-amperes, but the voltage potential is still strong…

See the Electric Western site for more details!

via sheepslinky

This s what an AssBlaster sounds like. Is it what you expected?

Josh Humphrey rocks the Metasonix KV-100 Assblaster, with Mike Dobler on Korg ESX drum machine. Recorded at Big City Music.

More soothing Assblaster sounds at arrowbang’s YouTube page.

Musikmesse 2009: This is an overview of the Thermionic Culture Little Bustard, a valve-summing mixer, via soundonsoundvideo.

This demo video shows an Electric Western Zia Ribbon Controller controlling a Phantastron vacuum tube synthesizer.

via sheepslinky:

Demonstrating the new Zia Ribbon Controller and the Phantastron from Electric Western.

This setup is played much like a Trautonium. A ribbon controls the pitch and volume is controlled with a foot pedal.

Technical Setup:The ribbon CV is fed into a Solid State 1V/oct oscillator which is fed to the sync input of the Phantastron. Audio is taken from the Phantastron only and delay is added. Volume is controlled by a Roland expression pedal that plugs into the Zia Ribbon’s circuits (which are on the desk behind me) and controls a VCA. The ribbon shown is a prototype, and the nice wooden case has not been built yet…

Metasonix R-52 Multimode Filter Eurorack Module

via bigcitymusic:

Ok nerds. Here’s the ultra-dork demonstration of the new R-52 module from Metasonix.

We start with a square wave oscillator, the Analogue Systems rs95. The R-52 sounds great. It’s the same filter as the discontinued Metasonix TM-6.

You can see when the first cable gets plugged in. That’s when we start modulating the “Sweep CV In” with the A.S. rs200 sequencer. The second cable is another channel of the sequencer modulating the “Resonance CV Input”. Don’t ask about dB response. Just bask in the crusty warmth that is the R-52.

Update: I just talked to Eric. This is the prototype of the R-52. The actual production models will be revised and will self-resonate. Cool.

Looks like interesting and unpredictable addition to a Eurorack modular synthesizer.

If you’ve had a chance to try this out, leave a comment!

Metasonix‘ new line of vacuum-tube Eurorack synth modules is now available via Analogue Haven.

The new modules include:

• The Metasonix R51 Vacuum Tube VCA/Distortion Synth Module
• The Metasonix R-52 Vacuum-Tube Multimode Filter
• The Metasonix R-53 Vacuum-Tube Waveshaper Ringmod

If you want to know more about the man behind Metasonix, read our interview with Metasonix creator Eric Barbour.

The Metasonix R-53 Vacuum-Tube Waveshaper Ringmod is a unique tube-based synth module for Eurorack modular synthesizers.

Description:

The r-53 is directly derived from Metasonix’ tm-1 device. It uses a 12af6/bd6 remote-cutoff pentode and a 12av7 dual triode.

Waveshaping is provided by a vacuum-tube “pulser” circuit that spits irregular pulses onto the input waveform. They synchronize erratically with the input pitch (if a waveform with sharp transitions is used). combined with true vacuum-tube circuit distortion, this can provide a vast range of complex, aggressive distortion effects, utterly unique in the world.

A basic ring-modulation function is also available in the unit–applying a carrier pitch from an external oscillator to the screen grid of the pentode, This allows making inharmonic sum-and-difference pitch sound effects, with a unique vacuum tube pentode sound.

If you’ve used the Metasonix R-53, please leave a comment and let us know what you think!

Details:

Power requirement: +-12v dc, 200 ma

The metasonix r-series of vacuum-tube modules is intended for use in any “eurorack” standard modular synthesizer system.

All r-series modules are 22hp (112mm) wide and fit in any doepfer(tm), analogue systems(tm), or other compatible cabinet. They are powered entirely from the cabinet’s internal +-12v dc power supplies, using doepfer compatible 16-pin power connectors. their circuits protrude behind the panel less than 25mm (1 inch).

All vacuum tubes are nos (new old stock) types from classic american and european manufacturers that are run very conservatively for long life, and are readily available from distributors. The tubes protrude from the panel for visibility and cooling, less than 38mm (1.5 inches), and should fit inside a doepfer a-100 suitcase cabinet lid or into a doepfer mini case.

All audio inputs and outputs and cv inputs/outputs are 100% compatible with other synthesizer modules.

Plate voltage is provided by a tiny switching supply producing clean 48v regulated at low current, which is very safe and will not injure the user. Potentiometers are top-quality alpha rk12l types, and 3.5mm phone jacks are special kobiconn vertical-mount types,.

Each r-module is fully protected against reverse supply voltage, overvoltage, undervoltage, or incorrect hookup to external equipment. The r series is handcrafted in Northern California, USA.

Audio demos are available at Analogue Haven

The Metasonix R-52 Vacuum-Tube Multimode Filter is a unique synth module for Eurorack modular synthesizers.

Description:

The r-52 uses two pentodes, type 12au6. The circuit is derived directly from the Metasonix tm-2 filter, but with all the features of their tm-6 filter.

A pair of bandpass filters is swept with a vactrol(tm) control element, a resonant treble filter and a less-resonant bass filter, giving a 4-pole lowpass response. Filter sweep range (approx): bass-only 80-200 hz, bandpass/lowpass low setting 300-1000 hz, high setting 800-1900 hz. filter resonance/q adjustable from less than 1 to oscillation.

Voltage gain approx. 2 with resonance set to 10 o’clock position and input level set to maximum. both filters, or one at a time, may be selected and mixed in desired amounts using the front-panel response control. this allows for a wide range of equalization and special sound effects.

CV inputs are available for sweeping the cutoff frequency and for affecting the treble filter’s resonance. circuit distortion is less than 0.5% typical.

If you’ve used the Metasonix R-52, please leave a comment and let us know what you think!

Details:

Power requirement: +-12v dc, 150 ma.

The metasonix r-series of vacuum-tube modules is intended for use in any “eurorack” standard modular synthesizer system.

All r-series modules are 22hp (112mm) wide and fit in any doepfer(tm), analogue systems(tm), or other compatible cabinet. They are powered entirely from the cabinet’s internal +-12v dc power supplies, using doepfer compatible 16-pin power connectors. their circuits protrude behind the panel less than 25mm (1 inch).

All vacuum tubes are nos (new old stock) types from classic american and european manufacturers that are run very conservatively for long life, and are readily available from distributors. The tubes protrude from the panel for visibility and cooling, less than 38mm (1.5 inches), and should fit inside a doepfer a-100 suitcase cabinet lid or into a doepfer mini case.

All audio inputs and outputs and cv inputs/outputs are 100% compatible with other synthesizer modules.

Plate voltage is provided by a tiny switching supply producing clean 48v regulated at low current, which is very safe and will not injure the user. Potentiometers are top-quality alpha rk12l types, and 3.5mm phone jacks are special kobiconn vertical-mount types,.

Each r-module is fully protected against reverse supply voltage, overvoltage, undervoltage, or incorrect hookup to external equipment. The r series is handcrafted in Northern California, USA.

Audio demos are available at Analogue Haven

The Metasonix R51 VCA/Distortion Synth Module is a unique voltage-controlled VCA for Eurorack modular synthesizers.

Description:

The r-51 is unique and never before available in any form. It uses two remote-cutoff pentodes, type 26a6. two cv inputs are available for controlling circuit distortion from less than 2% up to more than 40% (varies with individual tubes). two cv inputs also allow use of the r-51 as a conventional synthesizer vca, with gain variable from less than -75db to +5db (typical).

Both distortion and vca features can be used simultaneously. This allows true vacuum-tube asymmetrical soft clipping to be applied to any waveform. with suitable cv processing, the r-51 can be configured as a true “variable mu” limiter or expander.

If you’ve had a chance to use the Metasonix R51, leave a comment!

Details:

Power requirement: +-12v dc, 150 ma.

The metasonix r-series of vacuum-tube modules is intended for use in any “eurorack” standard modular synthesizer system.

All r-series modules are 22hp (112mm) wide and fit in any doepfer(tm), analogue systems(tm), or other compatible cabinet. They are powered entirely from the cabinet’s internal +-12v dc power supplies, using doepfer compatible 16-pin power connectors. their circuits protrude behind the panel less than 25mm (1 inch).

All vacuum tubes are nos (new old stock) types from classic american and european manufacturers that are run very conservatively for long life, and are readily available from distributors. The tubes protrude from the panel for visibility and cooling, less than 38mm (1.5 inches), and should fit inside a doepfer a-100 suitcase cabinet lid or into a doepfer mini case.

All audio inputs and outputs and cv inputs/outputs are 100% compatible with other synthesizer modules.

Plate voltage is provided by a tiny switching supply producing clean 48v regulated at low current, which is very safe and will not injure the user. Potentiometers are top-quality alpha rk12l types, and 3.5mm phone jacks are special kobiconn vertical-mount types,.

Each r-module is fully protected against reverse supply voltage, overvoltage, undervoltage, or incorrect hookup to external equipment. The r series is handcrafted in Northern California, USA.

Audio demos are available at Analogue Haven

In this video, via GearWire, Josh from Bigcitymusic.com talks about the three upcoming Metasonix Eurorack synth modules:

• The R-51 — voiced for analog synth mangling — allows you to add mild tube warmth or take it to the next level (BAM!) and get all Metasonix-y (i.e. sounding like bathroom humor).
• The R-52 is a multimode filter based on TM-6 Multi-Mode pedal.
• The R-53 is the most extreme Eurorack so far, based on the TM-3 Ring Mod filter.

This is a demo of the new Metasonix KV-100 AssBlaster vacuum tube processor that was shown at the Big City Music booth at the 2009 NAMM Show.The video captures a drum pattern from the Jomox XBase999 analog drum machine getting mangled.

The KV-100 contains the basic preamp stage of the discontinued Metasonix TM-7 Scrotum Smasher, driving the waveshaping (pulser) and ring modulation functions of the discontinued TM-1 (minus the ring-modulator carrier oscillator). These two sections drive a VCO which was derived from the discontinued Metasonix TM-3.

A demo of the new Metasonix Eurorack modules at the Big City Music booth at NAMM 2009.

Electric Western has announced plans for some new DIY synth kits. 

There’s a lot on the list to get psyched up about:

First on the list is the EW Ribbon Controller:

20? long  & designed as an ergonomic instrument meant to be played! The current version sends 2 position CVs and has an optional expression pedal input/output (uses a roland or other keyboard expression pedal). It’s solid state & uses a permeable electric membrane touch surface. It’s not quite like John Simonton’s proposed ribbon at Paia, but it is driven actively and does provide two independent CVs allowing two hand (finger) playing & it will be compatible with pretty much any synth out there.

Phantastron Production Model: A phantastron designed to be economical as a completed instrument or module (not just a kit).

The 1936 Warmifier (v2):

Essentially a very tonal pre-amp / di with 1930s style vacuum tube input and output & a formant resonator section. Unlike a filter, the formants are RESONANT & can be additive or subtractive. This is accomplished with high quality inductors and shunts (not grounded resistors or potentiometers), much like the resonant networks used to add overall harmonic depth in the Trautonium or the Hammond Novachord.

I’m still searching out the right tranformer (1000-3000 ohms:600 ohms). Until I perfect my winding jig, I just can’t wind all the transformers myself. Oh and if anyone knows a good source of bakelite that might be nice too.

I’m also still working on theremins and martenot circuits. I think a FAITHFUL martenot inspired instrument is inevitable, but it’s taking some time. Currently, I do have a “gong speaker” and I’ve carved some wood for a “palm speaker”. I have also gotten the heterodyne oscillator and ring/string controller licked, but there are modifications that need to be done. Just because it works doesn’t mean it plays…

This is a demo of the Electric Western Phantastron all tube synthesizer processing and resynthesizing guitar.

A demonstration of an assembled Electric Western Phantastron vacuum tube synthesizer. 

This Phantastron was built for a customer from the same components & case parts in the standard kit. The Phantastron has a 30’s vacuum tube sound, like an Ondes Martenot in the highs and a Trautonium in the low range.

Phantastron was recorded direct to camera. No effects used…

This is a demo of the L.L. Electronics Rozzbox into the great sounding Vermona Retubeverb. First you hear the dry, then the wet.

Although the Retubeverb doesn’t have as many features as the Retroverb, it does have an amazing tube-tone spring reverb character and a three-band equalizer.

This is a demo of Eric Barbour’s Metasonix S-1000 all-tube Wretch Machine in action.

There are different clips, some using the Wretch as a drum processor, some as a synth. There’s a short little bit with the pulser section too.

It’s not very nice sounding, but aren’t most synths trying to sound nice? Different is good.

via bigcitymusic