Oversynth let us know that they have released a new series of overlays for the Roland SH-4D synthesizer.
Overlay designs range from classic black and white, blue, seafoam, brown, and various color-coding options to help with sound design and live performance.
All designs use high-contrast graphics and large type, where possible, for easy viewing in low light.
In addition, the designs also feature indicators behind the keyboard keys to help with live performance, color-coding to help identify functions associated with Pattern View and Rhythm Track editing, as well as shift function parameters. There are also several ‘cheat-sheet’ notes along the bottom to help remember some of the less obvious functions.
The Roland SH-4D overlays are available now, priced at $37 each.
Today, Tiptop Audio announced that they’ve released the first set of ART-equipped modules, which feature a new patching system that they say “makes polyphonic patching effortless.”
ART establishes a new signal standard in Eurorack systems, just like CV Gate and 1V/Oct. ART modules are Eurorack modules and use Eurorack signal levels for oscillator audio and gate/cv controls, the same power connector, and are designed to blend into any Eurorack system. But they also include ‘Polytip’ connectors, which are connected using special Polytip patch cables.
Tiptop is starting with the release of the ATX1 Analog VCO, Vortex Digital OSC, Octopus USB/MIDI interface, ART V/OCT Quantizer, and Control Path dual analog envelopes plus VCA.
Official intro explains how ART-equipped modules work:
Here’s A deep dive into the world of the Octopus ART interface:
In addition to making the ART-equipped modules, Tiptop Audio plans to publish information for both DIYers and module makers on how to implement ART, including a free reference design that adds ART to Mutable Instruments Braids and Plaits.
The first batch of ART modules is available now, and Tiptop is also offering discounted bundles of ART modules. Details available on the Tiptop Audio website.
WMD founder William Mathewson let us know that the company is back in business, and some of its modules are available again.
The company shut down at the end of 2022. At the time, they were unable to reliably get the parts they needed to be able to introduce and manufacturer synth modules.
“I needed a little time to sort things out,” explains Mathewson. “I’ve restructured a lot of things in my life and have made more bandwidth for designing new musical tools. I’m excited to be making electronics and music as my artistic outlet again.”
Mathewson says that some of their ‘legacy gear’ is back in stock. Preorders are also now open for a final run of Synchrodyne Expands, and the last of the Synchrodyne modules is already available on the site.
“I hope to have announcements about new gear to help you create the music I love to hear you make,” he adds. “Until then, check out some of the new WMD merch, and if you’re in Denver, check out some of the events we are sponsoring.”
