Archive for January, 2023

Best Service releases Chris Hein OCTA ‘Musical Workhorse’

 

Best Service has released Chris Hein – OCTA, described as “a musical workhorse that is incredibly adaptable and easy to be inspired by.”

 

OCTA features 100 solo instruments, 8 core multi-channel instruments, and an 8-channel sequencer. It’s designed to let you compose with a solo instrument or an ensemble of (up to) 8 instruments.

 

“The sonic magic comes to light when you combine and layer different instruments,” they say, like the wooden attack of a marimba combined with the metallic sustain of a vibraphone.

Features:

  • 100 high-quality solo instruments
  • 8 multi channel instruments
  • 8 channel sequencer

 

Chris Hein – OCTA is available now for $299. Registered users of previous Chris Hein Libraries are eligible for a discounted crossgrade offer through the end of January 2023.

 

Synth-Werk introduces 2 New Systems based on Classic Moog Modular Designs

Munich-based SYNTH-WERK – a maker of MU modular systems, based on classic Moog designs – has announced two new systems, the SW 1P-2022 and SW 2P-2022.

SYNTH-WERK modules are clones of vintage Moog designs, manufactured using the same hand-assembly methods used in the Moog Music factory in Trumansburg, NY in the ’60s. The modules are built by hand-stuffing and hand-soldering components to circuit boards, using traditional wiring methods and vintage NOS (new old stock) components.

The SYSTEM SW-1P-2022 is based on the Moog 1P, and features two cabinets and a control keyboard.

What Synth-Werk say about it:

“LEGENDARY SOUND – MADE EVEN BETTER

Without a doubt the sonic character of the original 1P system relies deeply on the unique qualities of the most legendary 901ABB oscillator bank accompanied by a single 901, which put together celebrated their reincarnation in form of our highly acclaimed SW901A, SW901B and independent SW901 modules.

Instead of performing a mere replication of the initial layout, we carefully redesigned the 901’s conductive track and component placing from scratch, solving common thermic stability issues of the archetype in the process to achieve the unrivaled tuning stability this unique oscillator deserved in the first place.

A MATTER OF TASTE AND IMAGINATION

Despite the initial version from 1969 we added a SW960 Sequencer which was an option back then. By gaining one open slot in the reconfiguration process, you also might like to add another sought after classic to your system, for example the SW962 Sequential Switch or our celebrated recreation of the famous Bode Ring Modulator SW6401M.

YOUR PERSONAL SYSTEM – YOUR PERSONAL WAY

With the modules SW907, SW907A and SW914 readily available from our SYNTH- WERK portfolio, you are also able to choose from three different fixed filter bank types to blend perfectly with your system. If you are looking into any further options and custom configurations, take your time and get in touch with us for an elaborate expert advice on creating the SW-1P-2022 of your dreams.

KEYBOARD AND SEQUENCING OPTIONS – THE PERFECT SYMBIOSIS

Note that the included CV and trigger routing module got specially designed for the SW-1P-2022, supporting CV1 and CV2, GATE1 and GATE2 connections coupled to a backside mounted socket reserved for a duophonic Moog style keyboard. On the right hand side of the frontpanel you can further choose between CV-signals and trigger-signals deriving from one connected keyboard or alternatively the IN1/IN2-sockets by utilizing the three inte- grated rocker switches. A third input can be used for connecting the installed 960 Sequencer, or any other CV signal. By the way, all three incoming signals are al- lowed to be sent directly to the CP3 mixer units. Use the third integrated rocker switch to easily choose between trigger 1 and 2 or two external trigger-signals to be routed to the SW993 CP module.

CUSTOM MADE VERSATILITY – SEAMLESSLY HOOKED UP TO YOUR WORLD

Note that the included CV and trigger routing module got specially designed for the SW-1P-2022, supporting CV1 and CV2, GATE1 and GATE2 connections coupled to a backside mounted socket reserved for a duophonic Moog style keyboard. On the right hand side of the front panel you can further choose between CV-signals and trigger-signals deriving from one connected keyboard or alternatively the IN1/IN2-sockets by utilizing the three integrated rocker switches. A third input can be used for connecting the installed 960 Sequencer, or any other CV signal.

By the way, all three incoming signals are allowed to be sent directly to the CP3 mixer units. Use the third integrated rocker switch to easily choose between trigger 1 and 2 or two external trigger-signals to be routed to the SW993 CP module.”

SW-1P-2022 Instrument Complement Case 1:

  • SW907 Fixed Filter Bank
  • SW904A VC Low Pass Filter
  • SW905 Reverberation Unit
  • SW901A Oscillator Driver
  • SW901B Oscillator
  • SW901B Oscillator
  • SW903A Random Noise SW901 Oscillator
  • SW991 Filter and Attenuator
  • SW CP3 Mixer SW CP3 Mixer

SW-1P-2022 Instrument Complement Case 2:

  • SW960 Sequencer
  • SW902 VCA
  • SW902 VCA
  • SW911 Envelope Generator SW911 Envelope Generator SW961 Interface
  • Blank (Optional)
  • SW Reversible Attenuator
  • SW993 CP
  • SW994 CP Multiple
  • SW Control / Keyboard Interface (Keyboard not included) SW Balanced Out

The SYSTEM SW-2P-2022 is based on the Moog 2p. What Synth-Werk say about it:

“Without a doubt, the sonic character of the original 2P system relies deeply on the unique qualities of the most legendary 901ABBB oscillator bank accompanied by a 901ABB oscillator bank, which put together celebrated their reincarnation in form of our highly acclaimed SW901A, SW901B modules.

Instead of performing a mere replication of the initial layout, we carefully redesigned the 901’s conductive track and component placing from scratch, solving common thermic stability issues of the archetype in the process to achieve the unrivaled tuning stability this unique oscillator deserved in the first place.

YOUR PERSONAL SYSTEM – YOUR PER- SONAL WAY

With the modules SW907, SW907A and SW914 readily available from our SYNTH-WERK portfolio, you are also able to choose from three different fixed filter bank types to blend perfectly with your system. If you are looking into any further options and custom configurations, take your time and get in touch with us for an elaborate expert advice on creating the SW-2P-2022 of your dreams.

KEYBOARD AND SEQUENCING OPTIONS – THE PERFECT SYMBIOSIS

Note that the included CV and trigger routing module got specially designed for the SW-2P-2022, suporting CV1 and CV2, GATE1 and GATE2 connections coupled to a backside mounted socket reserved for a duophonic Moog style keyboard. On the right hand side of the frontpanel you can further choose between CV-signals and trigger-signals deriving from one connected keyboard or alternatively the IN1/IN2-sockets by utilizing the three integrated rocker switches. A third input can be used for connecting a Sequencer, or any other CV signal. By the way, all three incoming signals are allowed to be sent directly to the CP3 mixer units. Use the third integrated rocker switch to easily choose between trigger 1 and 2 or two external trigger-signals to be routed to the SW993 CP module.

CUSTOM MADE VERSATILITY – SEAM- LESSLY HOOKED UP TO YOUR WORLD

Note that the included CV and trigger There is also the possibility of connecting an existing Eurorack system enabled through an added sextet of trunk lines that disembogue in a rear mounted connector to be chained with a multicore cable solution.

If you’re going to use your SW-2P-2022 in professional recording environments, you will be glad to hear, that we decided to implement a balanced passive XLR-output to suit your studio needs.”

Both systems are available now, with the following pricing:

SW-2P-2022 Instrument Complement Case 1:

  • SW907 Fixed Filter Bank
  • SW905 Reverberation Unit
  • SW903A Random Noise
  • SW902 VCA
  • SW901A Oscillator Controller
  • SW901B Oscillator
  • SW901B Oscillator
  • SW901B Oscillator
  • SW901A Oscillator Controller
  • SW901B Oscillator
  • SW901B Oscillator
  • SW991 Filter & Attenuator
  • SW CP3Mixer
  • SW CP3Mixer

SW-2P-2022 Instrument Complement Case 2:

  • SW 904B VC High Pass
  • SW 904C Filter Coupler
  • SW 904A VC Low Pass
  • SW 902 VCA
  • SW 902 VCA
  • SW 984 Matrix Mixer
  • SW 911 Envelope Generator
  • SW 911 Envelope Generator
  • SW992 CP
  • SW993 CP
  • SW 994 Multiple CP
  • SW Control /Keyboard Interface (Keyboard not included)
  • SW Balanced Out
  • Power Switch

 

Roland launches Bridge Cast Gaming Audio Mixer

 

It is playtime for the musical instrument giant – Roland switches gears and launches the Bridge Cast audio interface/mixer for online gamers.

Having spent the past 50 years focusing on musicians, Roland is now entering a different market with Bridge Cast, a new USB-C audio streaming interface and mixer for online gamers.

This neat-looking desktop box enables you to create two mixes – one for you and another for your online audience – and features vocal transformer effects derived from Roland’s VT series. In addition, there is an aux input for music playback, sound effects and an XLR input for high-quality mics. All processing takes place on the hardware, potentially freeing up your computer’s power so that it can deliver better gaming and streaming performance.

The dual mix functionality means that you can have a pure gaming mix in your own ears while viewers get additional background music and effects. There are dedicated volume knobs and mute buttons for the mic, aux input, chat and game audio, so you can make instant adjustments without having to dive into a software mixer. You can select mic effect and EQ presets directly from the unit, as well.

 

Besides, there is also a companion software app that enables you to dive deeper into the Bridge Cast’s features. Here, you can tweak the audio processing and voice transformer settings, select game EQ presets, re-assign the hardware controls and save/recall different setups for specific games and audiences.

That said, there is also the intriguing prospect of upcoming compatibility with Roland’s Cloud service. Arriving in the second quarter of the year, this will enable you to access thousands of royalty-free backing music titles, sound effects and more. You will be able to customize your mixer with alternative faceplates, as well.

Bridge Cast connects via USB-C to PC, Mac and mobile devices, and is also said to be compatible with the PlayStation 5. In the case of Sony’s console, though, you lose the option to individually control the voice chat and game audio separately. If you want to connect to Xbox or Nintendo Switch, you’ll need to do so via the 3.5mm aux jack.

The Bridge Cast will be available this month priced at $300. Find out more on the Roland website.