“Don’t you forget about me! The formerly irredeemable 80’s return”
Family swapping has been extremely popular back in the 80’s but got forgotten along the way. Now it’s making a huge come back thanks tothe newest series of FamilySwapXXX. When it comes to executing funny ideas you can count on Nubiles, authors behind the project. It’s 4 families who mix between themselves in order to have some fun and build up a new family. So, do you think it is as easy as it sounds. Well, the answer is it’s not 80’s anymore!
These actually are three different headlines which made their appearance in three different trend pieces of the New York Times and were written for three different times over the last two decades. The very first one was one in which Michiko Kakutani made an argument that nostalgia for the 1980s had completely infiltrated the American culture. It was published in April 2001. The second one took note of the revival of the initial MTV decade, which particularly shook the music industry and was published just one year later in 2002. And the third confirmation that 80s were well living and kicking, most notably in the fashion world is the piece appeared in the Times recently.
We do not note all of this to suggest that the trend pieces of New York Times like history have a habit of often repeating themselves, but rather to underline the truth which is very much evident to anyone who watches TV, movies or listens to music. The self-evident fact is that the 80s have not and seems they will not ever go away. Our fixation on the 80s culture, featuring the decade of Duran Duran has now officially been sticking with us for longer than the decade itself.
The likeliness for the era featuring syth-pop first made an appearance mechanically, rich on the usual schedule for nostalgia for America: close to 20 years after the 80s had ended. Just like the fascination for the 1950s had swept through the 1970s, the obsession of people with the 60s appeared during the 1980s. The same happened with the presence of the 70s in the pop culture that was witnessed in the 90s. Similarly, the 80s wave began rebuilding in the 2000s, just in time.
With all things from the 80s, making a comeback, so have the synthesizers arrived on the scene too. Synthesizers have been with us for many years. As of today, synthesizers have gone on to become a very integral part of every modern music production studio. It is, hence, very critical for all music production individuals to manifest a lucid and better comprehension of how a synthesizer works.
While synthesizers may look like small ordinary electronic pianos, they actually allow for an order of magnitude of sound creation and manipulation options. With these instruments at their disposal, music producers have the unique opportunity for revolutionizing both recordings and productions. In addition to this, they will have the opportunity to personify the musical equipment of their choice while introducing customization in sounds. The synthesizer is plausibly the only musical instrument that allows the musician to comprehend how different musical units actually function.
Korg’s littleBits synthesizer kit is the one to go for if you are really fascinated by all the switches and knobs and want to learn more about them. The offering consists of a box that contains small modules, covering all the components of a basic synthesizer, namely the sequencer, envelope, oscillators, filter, keyboard, mixer, delay, and speaker.
Some people just yearn for a synthesizer that can make a lot of weird, loud noises, and there is nothing to be ashamed about in that. If that is you, the perfect thing for you is Arturia’s MicroBrute.
You can also find a world of options on online superstores like Amazon. So, go ahead and relive the 80s again with the amazing sounds of synthesizers.
]]>It enabled the Beatles as well as platinum pop princess, Donna Summer to create stellar hits during their respective peaks.
Dr. Robert Moog invented the first synthesizer to eliminate the need of having numerous electronic sound generators during recording sessions. Prior to Moog’s innovation, record labels spent a lot on sound engineers in order to provide maintenance to these sound devices.
Moog Music announced in February 2018 that it will only produce 40 Modular Synthesizers IIIp.
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37 Hand-Soldered Modules
Dr. Robert Moog consulted a team of ten seasoned music technicians in order to design the Moog Synthesizer IIIp prototype. Despite their meager financing, Dr. Moog and his team hand-stuffed and soldered 37 modules. This feature enabled music producers to create new sounds by manipulating sound waves.
To ensure maximum durability, Moog Music mounted the modules in a hardwood cabinet. This set of modules consists of ten 901 series oscillators. An oscillator produces unique waveforms that enable a synthesizer to produce sound. If you want to create a tune that invokes a laidback feel, you’ll use the oscillator to produce a mild tone.
The Moog Synthesizer IIIp has a 4-input mixer and a 902 series Voltage Controlled Amplifiers. Each module appears neatly on its own space.
Learn more about Modular synthesizers
Moog Synthesizer IIIp
This reincarnated limited edition synthesizer comes with the original designs and materials recommended by Dr. Robert Moog. One reason why the Moog Synthesizer IIIp is pricy is that most circuit components reached the end of their product lives decades ago. Moog Music had to convince former manufacturers to produce all hardware components used in the 60s.
Each buyer receives a discreetly designed Moog Synthesizer IIIp that matches its 60s hardware specifications. This means that each circuit board undergoes testing prior to advancing to the final assembling process. If someone accidentally spills a soda on your Moog Synthesizer, you’ll probably have to purchase a new one because no spare parts are available.
Dr. Robert Moog
Dr. Robert Moog liked the CP3 mixers manufactured in his era because they produced an auto-leveling effect. It simplifies audio mixing for sound technicians because auto leveling ensures all output channels are audible. Sometimes it’s difficult to capture sound when a recording session entails numerous musical instruments. Hence, a CP3 mixer enables music producers to capture the best vocals and live instrumentation.
The CP3 mixer helped music producers in the 60s and70s achieve desired sound panning for stereo listening. This led to the popularity of the 3D sound effect in pop music. Nowadays, Electronic Dance Music (EDM) producers love using the 3D sound effect to amplify a track’s climax.
Pink Floyd
No. In fact, the Moog Synthesizer IIIp broke genre barriers and enabled music producers to create new sounds through sampling. Disco pop genre became widely popular in the late 60s and 70s because the Moog Synthesizer IIIp enabled music producers to synthesize jazz guitars into unheard psychedelic electronic sounds.
During the 70s, punk rock band such as Pink Floyd and The Doors experimented with the Moog IIIp synthesizer in numerous recording sessions. In 2013, the international electronic music group Daft Punk spent over a million dollars to record an entire album using equipment and techniques used in the Moog-dominated 70s.
Below are some records which were derived from the jungle tekno sound.
This sound can be compared with Kraftwerk even though it contains a more clubby effect and has a fast tempo.
It comes with adequate breakbeats. Ron developed the track in collaboration with Donavon Badboy Smith.
Ron made this track together with Paul Clarke. Even though Paul had no prior dance music experience, Ron encouraged him to combine his pop artist and music skills to bring out the more musical concept of the tune. He played a major role in the track’s composition transforming each release to give it a more melodic effect.
The fast floor track has a combination of atmospheric and dreamy sound, which is a contrast to the rather up beat jungle tekno sound.
The 20 hurts combines some Belgian sound to give it the hardcore effect and bring out the jungle tekno feel. It was a fast and interesting track which seemed to increase its tempo with every production.
Learn how to play the analog vintage keyboard.
The idea of this track came into realization after Ron left his TV on record mode.
He heard a specific sound which he used as a smple to create this sound.
He incorporated a darkside jungle tekno tone within the sound capturing events that that took place then in an efficient atmosphere.
This track was created in collaboration with Spencer who was then a DJ. Spencer brought in break beats in the tune. However, they had to make several samples before settling on this particular one. By then, the jungle tekno sound was already a house hold name.
Bass and intelligent drum was making an entry into the sound industry which saw the elimination of 4/4.
The function of a filter is to alter a sound’s timbre by eliminating specific frequencies from the wave.
The function of a filter is to alter a sound’s timbre by eliminating specific frequencies from the wave. A keyboard has different notes which individuals can use to play notes. Even then, there is always a different in the sound some instruments produce despite users incorporating the same pitch to play them. This is caused by the sound’s timbre and it can spoil a sound’s harmonics.
Sounds consist of numerous frequencies whose combination is responsible for producing a powerful pitch. This explains why the C chord played on a guitar produce the same sound as a C note. Basically, these are harmonics which define a specific sound’s timbre or character. See commonly used synthesizers.
An oscillator produces a waveform and proceeds to change its pitch which is also defined as the frequency. This is achieved when voltage forms electrons which produce a waveform.
Many of the available synthesizers allow users to choose between different wave types. This is because different patterns produce varying sounds.
It creates different effects depending on the point of application.
The function of modulators is to build effects. However, some of them may cause damage to the sonic properties.
For instance, the LFO (Low frequency oscillator) forms low frequency signals so much so that the ear can hardly hear. For this reason, it is used for modulating specific synth parts such as a wah pedal to create effects, as compared to developing sound.
For instance, it creates a vibrato by wiggling the pitch on application to the oscillator, a wobble dub step bass when applied to the filter, and a tremolo when applied to the amplitude.
The function of the amplifier is to regulate the volume of the signal and modifies its size. It’s also capable of changing the signal’s amplitude over time by regulating the speed at which it achieves the peak of its volume and how long it is able to sustain it. Such can be compared with the sound produced by the violin string and the staccato sound produced by hitting the piano key.
Below is a list of 20 of the best available synths and where to purchase them.
The Oberheim OB-Xa was a response to the OB-X, having been released in 1980 only one year after the latter was released. It features curtis integrated circuits which make the interior less cluttered. Interested buyers can purchase it from RL Music
Roland JD 800 is a digital synthesizer. It comes with numerous sliders and knobs. Users can use them in performance control and patch editing. Interested buyers can purchase this instrument from Ebay
Yamaha CS-80 is a polyphonic analog synthesizer which can execute an ancient sound memory settings and 8 truce voice polyphony. Individuals seeking to purchase this instrument can get a modification of the same at Ebay
The Korg Wavestation was released in the 1990s and a software version of the same would later be released in 2004. It features Wave Sequencing,which allows the successful execution of pulse code modulation date. Get this instrument from ebay
This instrument is an FM synthesis digital synthesizer which comes complete with an electronic keyboard. It is compatible with MIDI which basically means that it can be linked with other MIDI compatible computers or instruments. Find it at Amazon
This instrument is an audio semi modular subtractive analog synthesizer. ARP 2600 can be operated with or in the absence of patch cords. Purchase this instrument from Ebay
Interested buyers can purchase it from Reverb
This instrument is an analogue synthesizer that comes with 5 polyphony voices complete with a patch memory. Find this instrument at Ebay
It is a monophonic analog synthesizer designed by Bob Moog and Bill Hemsath in the 1970s. Moog would later redesign it in the year 2002. Interested buyers can purchase this instrument from Amazon. Read about the Moog CEO.
The ARP comes with a manually modulated pulse width. Find it at Ebay
This instrument is an analog semi modular patchable monophonic synthesizer. Find it at Amazon. Interested parties many have to hurry up as only limited pieces are left.
This instrument is a monophonic bass synthesizer that comes with an inbuilt sequencer. Order it from ebay
The Roland SH 101 is a monophonic analog synthesizer which comes with 3 concurrent waveforms and one oscillator. Buy it from ebay
The Korg Minilogue is a polyphonic analog synthesizer which is entirely programmable. Purchase it from Amazon.
ARP 2600 is an audio analog semi modular subtractive synthesizer. Find it from ebay
The Korg Triton is a workstation music synthesizer. It focuses on sequencing and sampling. It can be purchased from Amazon.
Roland D-50 is a 61 key polyphonic synthesizer. It comes with a joystick to enable data manipulation, on-board effects, and linear arithmetic synthesis. Purchase it from ebay
Roland Juno 60 is a polyphonic instrument that lacks the MIDI control option. Find it from ebay
This instrument comes with 6 analogue voices complete with 2 analog and 2 digital oscillator. Purchase it from ebay
Finally, Individuals interested in buying this instrument can purchase it from ebay.
]]>His company organizes an annual festival dubbed Moogfest which brings together players from the art, technology, and music industry.
Mike Adams
The company is currently headed by Mike Adams who has been on the lead for 14 years now. In an exclusive interview, he passionately described Bob Moog saying that he was both a brilliant genius and a talented engineer. He described himself as a musician’s instrument designer which explains why he always had numerous pens. Even though he agrees with Bob’s description of himself, he is stresses that Bob’s abilities surpassed it.
On perceptions that Bob possessed little business prowess despite his huge vision and ability to combine engineering and music, Adams said: Presently, that remains a perception that Bob himself admitted
However, it is evident that he had a great role to play when it came to decision making. For instance, Moogs once hired a New York publicist and paid him a wooping $25,000 annually. That happened in the 1960s and that was lots of money then.
By doing so, he intended to increase his popularity and to sync the synthesizer with his name. That paid a whole deal seeing that years later his name remains synonymous with the synth even in his absence.
When the interviewer Adams to describe Moog the company and its products, he said:
Moog strives to develop electronic musical instruments with special preference to the synthesizer. The synthesizer is a programmable instrument. Users can achieve an ancient instrument’s sound by twisting and turning its knobs. It comes with untold creativity which enables music artists to create sounds and accomplish them on this instrument.
Moog
Adams is not worried about the ever rapidly growing technology and availability of digital gadgets overtaking the synthesizer. On this he said: Moog does not plan to abandon the synthesizer in favor of software or even apps. It is something the company has already surpassed. He reiterates that he took over the company at a time when the world was beginning to embrace software and computers.
It is until later when he realized that the fascination with computers and software sort of withered down. When he sought to understand why, he was informed that many players had since realized that while software was efficient and convenient, hardware remained more valuable.
Adams lives by the mantra that hardware is more valuable. However, he was fast to note that there was another issue to it, the fact that artists are more interested in getting tangible feedback, such as being able to flip a switch, twist and turn a knob, and revolve the dial. He concluded by saying that the fact that many people sought to get that fascinating experience from software was enough indication of how dynamic the synthesizer is.
A Eurorack System
The procedure involves structuring and studying a personalized electronic musical gadget comprehensively. It is important to note that individuals do not require prior experience or expertise to be able to build a Eurorack system.
However, studying already existing systems gives one an overview of what is required to execute the process. Today, there are numerous channels where beginners can carry out extensive research such as websites.
Many systems consist of a series of modules such as; a sequencer, Lopass Gate(LPG), VCO(Voltage controlled oscillator), and modulation sources.
Modules come in various types such as clock manipulators, filters, voices, digital effects, and controlled voltage mixing surfaces.
The VCO forms the basic source of sound in an instrument. While there are numerous VCOs, the best type should have inbuilt timbral animation within the module.
Lopass gate is a merge of Voltage controlled amplifier and Low pass filter which are available in monosynths.
The LPG plays two major roles which are; regulating an instrument’s amplitude dynamics, and carving the timbre. Lopass gate is a merge of Voltage controlled amplifier and Low pass filter which are available in monosynths.
Modulation sources move the modular synthesizer. Individuals can use a function generator at the beginning then follow it up with a random voltage generator when necessary. The FG enables users to execute predictable changes in the instrument’s sound. It can also be used to build LFOs and envelopes
The RVG develop unpredictable voltage controls.
However, an effective RVG should regulate the development of unpredictable voltages.
A sequencer enables users to execute changes in the timbre and pitch.
A sequencer enables users to execute changes in the timbre and pitch while building musical events in order to create musical passages. See how to create a sequence. It basically is an integral part of an instrument. Individuals who use the MIDI to control voltage complete with a Digital audio workstation, then the sequencer is not necessary. Even then, users who aim at building an instrument which can function in the absence of DAW, must incorporate the sequencer.
While it is not necessary to sequence melodies, voltage controlled effects such as tempo and timbre can be sequenced.
Apart from an effective collection of modules, users will require a 10 patch cables at most nd a cabinet complete with power supply. Patch cables are readily available and quite reasonably priced. It is important to carry out extensive research before choosing cables and power supply. While some options come at a lower cost, they could have some limitations.
These components make an integral part of the system and it is important for every user to study them to ensure that they purchase the best available ones. An efficient power supply and a good case format that caters for the user’s requirements not only allows the modules to function adequately, it makes its operations convenient and interesting.
A lot of effort goes into creating or even recreating sounds apart from just choosing notes.
Below is a comprehensive tutorial on how to execute the procedure appropriately.
In this case, one can choose to use a software imitation of the Nord lead classic 2 such as the Discovery DSPs synth. Users can also opt for other synthesizers of their choice. Consider selecting one that comes with an inbuilt delay and overdrive or distortion. Individuals whose synths lack these characteristics can achieve them by adding plug ins.
The sound should be founded on a square wave oscillator or an independent saw.
This tutorial seeks to recreate a classic acid machine sound by the name of Roland TB-303. While the original sound may not be achievable, it is likely to exemplify an acid edge if careful consideration is put in place during the sound creation.
The sound should be founded on a square wave oscillator or an independent saw. This will subsequently be run through a decay envelope and a low pass resonant filter. Using a single legato voicing mode will aid the generation of a classic acid glide. The portamento can also be used in collaboration with the legato to produce overlapped midi notes.
The final step involves inclusion of unison, distortion, decay, and phaser.
The ancient TB-303 enabled users to choose between a square wave oscillator and a saw. In order to maintain the originality, users can use a single saw wave.
The fact that the 303 only generated a single voice does not limit users from doubling up to generate a thick sound.
At this point the single oscillator design is playing which makes way for the subsequent step.
When creating a sequence, it is important to execute this step with utmost care. The glide effects offers acid machines a unique character. So important are these effects such that the glide effect remains active in almost all synth patches which come with a portamento feature.
However, in this case users can ignore that effect because the main objective is to get particular programmable gliding notes. This means that individuals have to opt for a synthesizer which has the legato mode available in the voicing category.
The glide effects offers acid machines a unique character.
Now that the sequence is playing effectively, it is time to utilize a low pass resonant filter to give it an extra edge. A dedicated envelope filter also comes in handy and goes hand in hand with decay set up at release and low sustain. This gives each note both patch movement and dynamics.
The final step involves incorporating extra effects as desired.
A synthesizer is a gadget through which sound production signals are developed using electronic circuits. While the sounds are often unique, they may also imitate already existing sound producing instruments such as strings, horns, and drums.
Synthesizers come in varying shapes and sizes and can either be knob or keyboard controlled.
Digital circuits utilize the numbers available either in a computer or a digital circuit to generate waveforms.
Digital circuits utilize the numbers available either in a computer or a digital circuit to generate waveforms. This generation takes up limited voltage steps in comparison to constantly charging voltages. Even then, they are capable of producing already existing sounds. Digital synthesizers are hard to program despite the fact that they are small and come with a preset storage.
Analog circuits on the other hand generate constantly variable waveforms which produce a natural and smooth sound. The ancient synths were huge and analog. They include: Buchla, ARP, and Moog.
The production of sounds in analog synths is achieved through subtractive synthesis. See more about creating unique sounds. This begins with a single or more oscillators to generate waveforms. Harmonics are then subtracted using filters.
In digital synthesis, sound is produced using sampling or frequency modulation. As mentioned above, digital processes are hard to implement as compared to the analog ones.
Guitar pedals
Performance blocks in the patchable modular synth are isolated and erected on movable panels. A good example would be guitar pedals. Users are at liberty to patch together the modules according to their preferences. In a normalized synth on the other hand, the functions come in already linked together. It then remains the user’s responsibility to modify the parameters. While patchable modular synthesizers offer limitless options, operating them is quite intricate.
Modular patchable synths feature a one note at a time play kind of format. This basically means they are monophonic. Many users are likely to get disappointed with that fact at first. However, the notes produce powerful sounds which can consist of numerous changing effects, filters, and oscillators. Additionally, users can also use the modular to execute polyphonic patching.
Voltage control is one of the most important aspects in a modular analog synthesis.
Voltage control is one of the most important aspects in a modular analog synthesis. It provides the modular with power and adaptability. In this case, it means that module parameters can be altered by voltage control just s knobs do. This enables the module to regulate other module parameters through patching them in sync. For instance, identify a slow output sine wave oscillator and patch it to an input control oscillator frequency. The former will control the latter to generate a vibrato.
An envelope can be defined as a voltage signal which is generated by an EG (Envelope generator). It is likely to change from time to time. EGs voltage is used to regulate parameters when sounds undergo changes. The envelope generator comes with controls that regulate the envelope output voltage timing with a specific timing.
Keyboard Gate signals often prompt EGs. However, there are various sources from where a gate signal can emanate from, which include a sequencer or even an oscillator.
In conclusion, the sequencer can be defined as a module which generates a series of gates and control voltages which are often used to regulate modules.
This is because drums have a unique way of communicating with the listeners.
In the ancient years dating the 1970s and 80s, the music industry experienced an influx of drum machines courtesy of Roland.
One very fundamental sound that remains easy to make is the bass or kick drum.
However, he was faced by a setback when two of them became outdated after lasting only a few years. This was blamed on the onset of the digital sampling era. For this reason, they were purchased at throw away prices and later disappeared into the books of history.
Today, the vintage 909s and 808s seem to be making a comeback but there is a drawback. Users need to spend a whole lot to own them. There is a cheaper option though. Individuals who use Eurorack are capable of developing sounds similar to the original composition. Again, this does not require prior expertise or even qualification. With the Eurorack, users are able to create unique sounds which can make way for new musical routes.
One very fundamental sound that remains easy to make is the bass or kick drum. The very first kick analogue circuit began with a sinusoidal sound. In simpler terms, it contained restricted harmonic content. It is important to understand that every basic sine wave should consist of a single harmonic and should cover the analogue circuitry wear and tear.
Many envelopes execute the kick purpose procedure excellently. While Moogs Pittsburgh, and Roland have snappy envelopes, the Tiptop Audio Z4000 envelopes remain among the most snappiest. It comes in handy in percussion sounds due to the absolute control on the front end. Even then, users should strive to ensure it is adequately flexible.
In order to create the best sound from a drum, it is important to analyze the already existing modules. See some of the tips on choosing synthesizers. Many times they have the same vintage unit circuitry. In this case, the best option would be the Tiptop Audio which comes with sufficient drum modules. These come complete with the appropriate design to enable musicians create a 909/808 design sounds.
Individuals also have the advantage of getting more regulation of the control voltage. In addition, they are reasonably priced and produce captivating sounds.
Feedback is likely to be relayed here in the form of a sine wave.
Start by identifying an oscillator which has a sine wave or triangle capability to evaluate an 808 style kick. Some users opt for the self oscillating filter. When using a self oscillating filter, one is required to revolve upwards the resonance control available on the filter. Proceed to revolve the cut off frequency control. At this point, the filter output should be directed to the Voltage Controlled Amplifier (VCA). Feedback is likely to be relayed here in the form of a sine wave. Remember to keep low volume levels to prevent destruction which the sine waves may cause.
Users will have the opportunity to utilize the cut off control frequency to change the pitch as well as listen to the tone of the sine. The fact that they are able to establish a kick sound through tone tuning is an added advantage. In the past, executing that move on 808 was impossible. The next step is to try and break the VCA volume followed by directing the ADSR envelope towards the VCA’s gate.