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Synthesist John L Rice shared this complete guide to the latest Synthetic Sound Labs module, The Matrix Algorithmic Composer model 1660.

The Matrix is a deterministic algorithmic sequencer, inspired by the rare Triadex Muse from 1969.

The SSL module was designed by Doug Slocum and programed by Harold Screven, and is based on the Triadex Muse, which was created around 1969 by Edward Fredkin and Marvin Minsky at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (M.I.T.). The Triadex Muse was designed to be a part of a generative music and visualization system, and was one of the earliest digital music sequencers.

Topics covered:

0:00 – Beginning/Introduction Reel

1:48 – Brief Layout Overview

3:12 – Interval Controls and Binary Basics

5:33 – Normal vs Rest

6:10 – Scale Quantizer

6:45 – The C3 and C6 Difference

8:00 – Distraction and Audio Out Processing

9:00 – Back To Rests Plus Resets

10:41 – Partial Review Before Moving On

13:56 – Theme Controls and Shift Register Basics

17:42 – The Linear Feed Back Shift Register

20:42 – LFSR Pattern Watching

22:15 – Patch Example 1 – Clock Dividers and Quantizers

24:31 – Patch Example 2 – Audio Out as Modulation Source

27:51 – Patch Example 3 – External Shift Register and Quantizers

31:53 – End

The Matrix is available now for $425.

Behringer today teased that the 2-XM, a Euro format knockoff of the classic Oberheim Two Voice synthesizer, is now ready for production.

The company introduced the 2-XM in 2022 and, at the time, suggested that they thought that they could manufacture it with a $299 retail price.

The original Oberheim Two Voice keyboard synthesizer was introduced in 1975. It is a duophonic synthesizer, made up of two independent modular synth voices, and features a built-in 8-stage sequencer. Tom Oberheim released a limited-edition reissue of the original Two Voice in 2021, but demand was so high that it sold out in a day.

Like the original, the Behringer 2-XM offers two Synthesizer Expander Modules (SEM) – complete modular synth voices – along with an I/O and control section. It shrinks the design down to Eurorack format, though, and dispenses with the step sequencer.

Behringer is not saying anything about pricing or a release date for the 2-XM at this time.

Are you interested in a Oberheim Two Voice knockoff?  Share your thoughts in the comments!

Korg today introduced Gadget VR, a virtual reality application that they describe as ‘the DAW of the future’.

Korg Gadget VR promises ‘a future music production studio in VR space’. It’s based on KORG Gadget, a software virtual studio that’s been available for years on multiple platforms, including iOS, Mac and Nintendo Switch.

With Gadget VR, you can control music ‘gadgets’ that are arranged in 360°, as if they were surrounding you. To use it, you need is a compatible VR headset, which currently is limited to Meta Quest 2 / Pro.

Korg Gadget VR currently offers a scaled-down version of the original Gadget, with a selection of ‘gadgets’ redesigned for VR.

The company notes:

“We have carefully selected six gadget instruments from KORG Gadget. In order to make them more like physical instruments, the design used in the other versions has been expanded so that all of the knobs and sliders are displayed on the panels. The sophisticated parameter structure remains unchanged, allowing for the speedy creation of all kinds of sounds. You can enjoy not only immediate sounds, but also realistic visuals with attention to detail at the same time.”

The gadgets include:

• London – a drum sound module Gadget designed specifically for dance music.
• Miami – a Monophonic Wobble Synthesizer, designed for creating modern electronic bass sounds.
• Kiev – a software synth that features vector synthesis, using four oscillators that generate organic, spacey sounds.
• Chiang Mai – a polyphonic synthesizer Gadget that features VPM (Variable Phase Modulation) synthesis.
• Kingston – this polyphonic synthesizer Gadget is optimized for 8-bit or “chip tune” sounds.
• Warszawa – this synthesizer features a wavetable oscillator with a powerful filter and two modulation units,.

Korg Gadget VR Audio Demos:

Korg Gadget VR is available now for $29.99