Reason has a Rack for....

Anatomy jokes aside Reason 7 is out now! Check it:

Inspiration:

 

Instruments:

 

Mixing:

 

Loupe 2!

 

Now available @ ReaktorTips.com - Loupe 2! The latest Reaktor Ensemble creation from Peter Dines is a super CPU friendly Sample-based Granular Beastie with an awesome auto-slice feature:

"What is Loupe? It's a Reaktor ensemble that assigns freeform sections of a sample to different MIDI notes and allows them to be pitched, reversed, resized, filtered and enveloped individually. The incoming MIDI notes do not repitch the sample directly , but you can manually adjust each slice / key's tuning to create more complex melodic variation out of your source sample.

It works fantastically well to transform and remix a five to ten second musical phrase, a beat loop, a few seconds of a full song, or even a field recording of a drunk guy swearing at a lamp post. There is music lurking everywhere, sometimes in other music, sometimes in the notes between the notes, in the hissy crackle of decaying note tails on old vinyl samples, and Loupe will help you find it."

 

Intro:

Delay Mode:

Adding Samples:

Buy Loupe 2 today for $15 USD @ ReaktorTips.com!!!

Boards of Canada - Tomorrow's Harvest Transmission

A date has been confirmed for the coming Boards of Canada record Tomorrow's Harvest - June 10/11. The 17 track album is available as a double LP with gatefold sleeve and printed inner sleeves, of course coming with download code. You'll be able to purchase mp3 format, or even compact disc if you want to feel all 90's nostalgic. Preorder now from Bleep!

Adam Fielding's Icarus Now Available!

 

Adam Fielding's long awaited new album Icarus is now available on iTunes! From a quick listen I have to say this is my favorite long player from Adam yet, and that's saying a lot cause I really dig "And All Is As It Should Be". Check out some tracks below:

 

Boards of Canada Toonami ad

Boards of Canada have been dropping hints for the last month on their upcoming Warp release, evidently here's another:

Sweetwater interviews Chick Corea

Sweetwater's Mitch Gallagher interviews legendary jazz and fusion keyboardist Chick Corea in the latest Sweetwater minute:

Eclipse - A compilation by Project: Mooncircle

Eclipse is a brand new comp from Project: Mooncircle available as a FREE download or cassette!

"Every six lunar months -- when Sun, Earth, and Moon are aligned -- we experience a partial or total lunar eclipse that can be observed anywhere on the night side of Earth. Lunar eclipses can only occur at full moon, that time when the moon is directly opposite Earth in relation to the Sun. Many ancient civilizations cultivated a multitude of myths surrounding these astronomic events, most of them depicting wild animals or mystical creatures eating the moon or crossing it's path. Tibetan Buddhists say that during a lunar eclipse, our actions, whether good or bad, are multiplied one thousandfold, whereas, in ancient egypt, a lunar eclipse was considered to be the precursor of natural disasters, catastrophes, wars, and diseases and the biggest possible harm would be cast upon the earth if Isfet, the manifestation of the total eclipse and god of injustice and violence, would make the sky fall onto Earth and therefore bring chaos upon it.

As the soundtrack for tonight's lunar eclipse, we selected some exclusive and unreleased songs from Robot Koch, Submerse, Rain Dog, Sieren, Daisuke Tanabe, Lomovolokno, KRTS, and Daixie on this mini-compilation."

Check out Robot Koch's track "Gorom Sen Returns":

 

how-to KORG MS-20 mini - Part1:ノーマル・セッティング -

Korg has started making how to videos for the coming MS-20 mini, this one below in Japanese. Which is a good thing, because let's face it, these are going to sell like hotcakes and then messageboards are going to be lit up with people saying "I don't get it, it only makes three sounds?"

dubspot Flying Lotus interview!

dubspot interviews Flying Lotus at SXSW:

"The Dubspot crew caught up with groundbreaking DJ/producer and Brainfeeder label head Flying Lotus at South by Southwest 2013 for an interview about his influences, his creative process and methods, and some of his most recent projects."

Korg MS20 Mini Processed by Elektron Analog Four

Mr.Dataline pairs the MS20 mini with an Elektron Analog Four, a match made in heaven:

"There are 5 improvisation sessions in this video using this setup.

Analog Four is sending out CV sequence for pitch tracking, low pass filter and high pass filter on the MS20 mini. The output of the MS20 is then fed through the Analog Four's input using Filters, Overdrive and Digital effects. With this setting, the MS20 mini can be taken lot further by sequencing and adding automation to parameters. And when the Analog Four's Filters and Digital FX are added...well, its fun :) Using the Analog Four's extreme LFOs on MS20 Mini's filters results in some very interesting sounds which are not possible on the MS20 mini itself.

Track 1 is used for Analog four's input processing MS20. It also triggers the CV track controlling MS20's Pitch.

Track 2 is used for Kick

Track 3 is set for HiHats and Snares

Track 4 is used for Additional Analog Four synthesis."

CREATE 02 - Christopher Willits - Ableton Push + Harmonic Triangles

Christopher Willits looks at using the new Ableton Push instrument harmonically in the latest edition on CREATE, a collaborative series done by OVERLAP, a "growing creative community". Dig it:

MS20 mini VCO & VCF Test

Rishabh Rajan tests out the new Korg MS20 mini with Ableton Live's Push Controller:

"Testing out the oscillators and filters on the new Korg MS-20 Mini. The notes are not played in realtime. Its coming from Ableton via the USB-MIDI input on the MS-20 mini."

D-Filter RE

New to the Reason Rack - D-Filter RE:

"D-Filter is an extremely functional and easy-to-use 2-in-1 lowpass and highpass filter module. It can be used both as a high quality filter for mixing and as a creative FX."

Minibrute vs Harvestman

Ted James tries hooking up the Arturia Minibrute to his fantastic looking modular set-up:

"An example of the Arturia MiniBrute controlling the modular by way of the arpeggiator's control voltages. Modules by The Harvestman. All audio is from the modular. Signal chain is Piston Honda - Kuzminorgel - Bionic Lester - Double Andore - Tyme Sefari - Polivoks VCF - Evin 209 - Stilton Adapter direct to Mackie Onyx 820i."

Audio quantize and stretch in Reason 7 - Micro Tutorial

The Reason 7 release is less than two weeks away! Here's a micro tutorial on Audio Slice Markers in Reason 7 to wet your appetite:

"In this Micro Tutorial we take a look at audio slice markers in Reason 7. Whether you're quantizing your audio tracks for flawless timing, adjusting individual notes to re-imagine your phrasing, or just looking to experiment into unknown realms Audio Slice Markers are a powerful tool. And the best part? Thanks to Reason's legendary time stretch, it sounds amazing."

Global Sounds - Wavedrum

The new Korg Wavedrum looks like it would be a lot of fun to play! Just wish it had MIDI:

I

Biblio - You

I could listen to this all day:

Emulating the King - Introducing MONARK!

Brent Kallmer takes a look at Native Instruments newest synth MONARK - for Reaktor and the free Reaktor Player:

"The Minimoog is probably the most famous hardware synthesizer of all time—and likely the most emulated in the world of software. So does the world really need another Minimoog emulation? Native Instruments thinks so: Their new REAKTOR-based synth, MONARK, is based on years of research—but how does it sound?"

 

And in case you missed it, here's the dubspot video Brent refers to in the video:

DSI Prophet 12 Features Overview

Dave Smith Instruments posted a new video today showing the features of their new flagship synthesizer the Prophet 12:

"Introducing the Prophet 12! At twelve voices, the Prophet 12 boasts the greatest polyphony of any instrument designed by Dave Smith. Each voice features four oscillators capable of generating classic and complex waveforms, a sub-oscillator, resonant analog low-pass and high-pass filters, and analog VCAs. The new Character section adds a variety of wave shaping and sound sculpting options, like Drive, Hack, Decimation, Girth, and Air. Additional features include a tuned feedback path, a four-tap stereo delay per voice, expanded arpeggiator functionality, deep modulation capabilities, and bi-timbral operation. The LFOs, delay, and arpeggiator can all be synced, either to the internal clock or an external MIDI clock. Two programmable position- and pressure-sensitive touch sliders take the performance controls beyond the standard pitch and mod wheels."

 

Zoom H6

Zoom have a brand new portable recorder that appears to take cues from the famous Nagra SD line:

Zoom H6

• The world's first handy recorder with interchangeable mic system

• XY mics capture remarkable stereo depth and clarity

• Mid-side mics provide continuously variable stereo width

• Four XLR/TRS inputs for external mic/line connections

• Up to six channels of simultaneous recording

• High-definition audio of up to 24-bit/96kHz

• 6-in/2-out USB audio interface

• Over 20 hours of operation with 4 AA batteries

• Supports SDXC memory cards up to 128GB

• Optional Shotgun mic and external XLR/TRS inputs available

 

UPDATE:

Audio Fanzine TV has the first English language video from Musikmesse featuring the H6:

Korg MS-20 mini Patch Examples

When we last checked in with Marc Doty he was beginning to explore the patch panel on the new MS-20 mini... in the videos below he shows some patch examples, delving into the real charm of the MS-20 instrument:

1:

2:

3:

Sub_P Review!

 

AudioFanzine.com has posted one of the first thorough Moog Sub Phatty reviews I have yet to see on the interwebs! Complete with architecture, history, pros and cons and even audio. Check it out!

Gaslamp Killer vs Jungle by Night!

Red Bull presents the electric slam in Amsterdam:

The New Holy Trinity!

 

Korg once again showing the major manufacturers how it's done with the volca series! Three separate book-sized beatboxes announced today at Musikmesse and expected to cost only $149 USD.

"Korg announces the volca series of analog synthesizers. The volca series is a new lineup consisting of three units: the volca Keys lead Synthesizer, the volca Bass synthesizer, and the volca Beats rhythm machine. These units let you create a diverse array of fat sounds that can only be obtained from an analog synthesizer; and you can generate intuitive phrase performances using the loop sequencer. Multiple units can be used in tandem, or together with your DAW software."

 

UPDATE:

SonicState.com video from MusikMesse:

Handmade Analog Synth with Light Bulb Strobe

Kyle Evans has a new handmade offering on eBay! Check it:

 

Thao and the Get Down Stay Down live on KCRW

Thao Nguyen stopped by KCRW this morning with her band, The Get Down Stay Down, to perform on Morning Becomes Eclectic. Check out their latest album "We the Common" out now on Ribbon Music! Check it:

 

Mount Kimbie - Blood and Form

Another preview track from the coming Warp debut "Cold Spring Fault Less Youth"!

 

"We're very happy to share with you another song from 'Cold Spring Fault Less Youth'. Blood and Form came together quite late in the writing process and was started from some recordings of a Powerhouse 8 track drum machine with slightly warped tapes. Hope you like it!"

 

 

Novation Brings the Bass!

 

To celebrate their 21st year Novation is releasing the Basstation II:

"Twenty years ago, Novation released the ground-breaking Bass Station – a compact, elegant, analogue synth with a penchant for thick, fat and juicy bass sounds. Two decades later, Novation presents Bass Station II: a superb analogue monophonic synth in the traditional mould, but with the latest innovations. Based on the classic Novation Bass Station from two decades ago, Bass Station II has been completely re-worked for the 21st Century, with two filters, three oscillators, patch save and a fully-analogue effects section. There’s a step-mode sequencer, arpeggiator, a dual octave (25-note) velocity-sensitive keyboard with full-sized keys, and a comprehensive modulation section. There’s also full MIDI I/O and USB connectivity. Bass Station II’s signal path is all analogue, including the effects section, with three analogue oscillators (two independent oscillators plus a sub for rich bass sounds) and a noise generator; two discrete filters, Classic and Acid, with built-in overdrive; Distortion and Osc Filter Mod effects; dual ADSR envelopes and LFOs, and powerful Arpeggiator and Step Sequencer. Bass Station II’s traditional control layout breaks everything into modules for easy and familiar access, with dedicated pots, switches and sliders. But unlike a traditional analogue synth, there’s plenty of storage for custom sounds – there are 64 factory presets plus 64 more user slots in the hardware – and more can be stored on a computer."

 

21 years in under 4 minutes:

Well Hello There...

 

 

New from Tascam - the DR60 D, a 4 channel linear PCM recorder:

 

"The DR-60D from Tascam is a professional linear PCM recorder that allows you to capture up to four simultaneous channels of audio and store your recordings to SD or SDHC memory cards. Designed for recording high-quality audio for DSLR video applications, the DR-60D mounts to a tripod and allows you to screw your DSLR camera into the top of the recorder.

The DR-60D is capable of recording at 44.1, 48 and 96 kHz sample rates and at bit depths of 16- and 24-bit. Channels 1 and 2 are equipped with XLR/TRS combo jacks that can accept either mic or line level signals. These inputs can be used to connect microphones, audio playback devices and other gear. Each of the combo jack inputs are capable of supplying either 24V or 48V phantom power and each can be set independently of one another. They are also each equipped with peak indicator lights for monitoring your input levels as you record, as well as with discrete microphone preamps for independent gain control over microphones connected to these inputs.

In addition, the DR-60D is equipped with a 3.5mm stereo input that feeds into channels 3 and 4. It can be used to connect gear such as stereo microphones or external stereo audio equipment that terminates using a 3.5mm mini plug. It is capable of supplying plug-in power to video mics and other high output mics that require it. The 3.5mm input is equipped with one gain control knob that controls the input level to both channels 3 and 4 and it also has a peak indicator light.

Beyond these features, the DR-60D offers a variety of other functions that lend themselves to improved efficiency and convenience. Operating on four AA batteries, the DR-60D can record for up to 5 hours using Ni-MH batteries. Battery life can be extended to 12 hours by adding the optional BP-6AA battery pack. Also, the unit can be powered by a computer via the USB port. This can be useful to conserve battery life while transferring recordings off an SD card to your computer's hard drive. The DR-60D also features auto tone and slate tone functions that aim to simplify synchronization to video files during editing. Auto tones can be added to the beginning and ending of the recording and there is a slate button that can be pressed to add a slate tone to the recording at any time. These tones are also output to the 3.5mm camera out jack so they can be recorded to your DSLR camera's audio recorder for timing reference."

Specs:

• Records 4 external inputs in two pairs as two stereo audio files

• Tripod mounting threads on bottom of recorder and DSLR screw attachment that allows attachment and removal with a coin

• Remote jack for use with optional RC-10 wired remote or RC-3F footswitch

• Pre-recording function allows unit to record two seconds of sound prior to recording actually being activated

• Hold switch to prevent accidental adjustments

• Handles on both sides and can attach to a shoulder belt

• Camera in jack for monitoring DSLR recorder output

• Mid-side decoding

Now available to order at B&H for $349 USD!

 

Icarus!!!

The first single from Adam Fielding's long awaited new album is coming out April 15th! The title track "Icarus", on Distinctive Records, comes with 5 fantastic remixes and features The City of Prague Philharmonic Orchestra:

"After a long wait, I’m proud to announce that my third full-length original album Icarus is out in just under three weeks! This is preceded by the release of the first single from the album, Icarus. The single features the title track along with five remixes, spanning a wide range of genres from breaks through to house along with a film-score inspired take on the track. Both the single and album feature the incredible talents of The City of Prague Philharmonic Orchestra.

The album follows the same genre-spanning trend as the single and my previous albums, drawing inspiration from rock, classical, breaks, synth-pop, ambient and various other forms of electronic music. Spanning twelve tracks and clocking in at just under seventy minutes, it’s a rather epic musical journey that I am particularly proud of. With it being the culmination of just under three years worth of preparation, writing, performance and production, I am incredibly excited to finally have this chance to share it with you all.

The album will be released in both digital and physical formats. Full album lyrics and detailed information will be available from this site following the release of the album."

Album drops April 22nd!

 

Tycho Live at Amoeba!

Tycho stopped by Amoeba Records in Hollywood to perform the track "Dive" early last summer:

Drum Machine 101 with Redrum!

A brand new Reason Micro Tutorial!

"Ever since Reason 1.0 beatmakers, producers, and button-mashers alike have all loved the venerable old Redrum Drum Computer. And it's easy to see why. Step sequencing drum machines like Redrum or even the classic Roland 808 offer a nearly perfect layout for programming the rhythmic syncopated beats used in so many popular music genres. The 16 buttons, representing the 16 steps in the beat, provide the right blend of predictable beat construction and random experimentation when you want to spice up your beats.

In this micro tutorial, we'll get you started with drum step sequencing and get familiar with the Redrum's layout. You'll soon learn why producers the world over love Kong but also keep coming back to Redrum for that special creative simplicity."

Push Sonic Lab Review!

Nick Batt reviews Ableton's brand new baby:

Flying Adventure Time!

Flying Lotus has a new song created for a recent episode of the Adult Swim show Adventure Time called "About That Time // a Glitch is a Glitch". For context you can download the episode thru Pitchfork. Check it:

 

 

The Korg MS-20 Mini- Part 8 Sample and Hold

Marc Doty takes a look at the Sample and Hold capabilities on the new Korg MS-20 mini, and more importantly how to set it up on the patch panel: