New software synthesizer maker Constructs of Time has introduced Gradient, a polyphonic synthesizer for Kontakt Player that they say “captures the raw and organic sound of analogue.”
The sound of Gradient starts with a Eurorack modular system and a modified ARP Avatar that are deeply multi-sampled, to create tube-saturated sine waves, chorused saw waves, noisy pulse width modulation and powerful ring modulation. Gradient’s filters, modulation sources and effects further shape the sound.
Features:
Works with Native Instruments’ free Kontakt Player
Roland’s “premier” GP digital grand piano range includes a $19,000 self-playing model, but there are cheaper options, as well.
The GP-6, GP-9 and GP-9M join the super-compact GP-3
Roland Corporation today has introduced its full line-up of flagship GP digital grand pianos, which are designed to look as good as they sound. We’d already seen the ultra-compact GP-3, and this has now been joined by the GP-6, GP-9 and GP-9M.
The GP-9 and GP-9M sit at the top of the range, coming in large cabinets that are finished in either high-gloss ebony or polished white, features the ‘Piano Reality Concert modelling’ represents Roland’s latest technology and is designed to emulate every element of an acoustic piano – from the soundboard material and frame to the strings, hammers and more.
GP-9 and GP-9M offer unlimited polyphony, notes and resonances, a progressive hammer action keyboard with escapement, hybrid wood/moulded key construction with Ivory Feel, and advanced acceleration sensing technology for accurate detection of the subtlest playing nuances.
You even get haptic feedback from the keys that’s designed to emulate the physical resonances of an acoustic piano’s body, along with “high-performance” sustain, soft and sostenuto pedals with a weighted feel and damper modelling.
Careful attention has also been paid to the sound system, which promises multi-channel amplification, premium audio circuitry and advanced sonic processing to create an immersive, surround experience.
The guts of the GP-9 and GP-9M are the same, but the latter model is notable for its self-playing key function. It also comes with pro-level audio outputs and a mic input that enables you to sing along through the onboard speaker system.
The GP-6 is the mid-level piano in the range but, you still get the Piano Reality Premium modelling sound engine and keyboard and unlimited polyphony, and even though the cabinet is smaller, we’re still promised amazing sound.
GP-6 and GP-9 will be available this month priced at $6,300 and $11,000 respectively. The GP-9M will be available in May priced at $19,000, while at the other end of the scale, the GP-3 is available now at $4,000.
Reliq is a new matrix-based “hybrid control surface” that can be used to route and mix audio, sequence your music and control your DAW.
The majority of Reliq’s top surface is taken up by a 16×16 grid of buttons. This can be used to connect any input to any output with a single press, and you can store and recall signal routings in real time.
When in its sequencing guise, Reliq offers 16 polyphonic sequencers, while modes include Euclidean and Stochastic. You get eight voices of polyphony and 128 patterns per track, an LFO and envelope per track, real-time parameter recording and MPE compatibility.
When it comes to modulation, you can draw automation, LFO shapes and envelopes on the button grid.
DAW control features the option to trigger loops and clips, adjust mixer and instrument settings and arrange clips. A dedicated plugin enables you to sync and control Reliq from your DAW, as well.
Naturally, there’s plenty of I/O: three MIDI Outs, one MIDI In, USB-C MIDI, USB Host, 16 x gate and 32 x CV, reset out and clock out. The CV/gate connectivity and 16×16 matrix I/O comes in its own Eurorack-compatible case; this can be powered from the main Reliq unit via USB-C or a Eurorack power supply.
It’s difficult to know what to make of Reliq without seeing it in action. There are no videos to watch at this stage, but you can sign up for a launch invite on the website and receive a discount. The standard price will be $1,699.
