The new synth builds on PM’s Taiga synth module, adding full-sized keys, additional modulation, a unique modular expansion bay, and more.
“The extra size does make more sense of this instrument for performing and working on sounds,” notes Sonic State synth guru Nick Batt. “We would like to have seen a legato envelope mode, currently every note triggers the envelope, not something you can fix with an extra module, and a couple of the knobs response are quite sensitive – notably envelope release is somewhat on even with a small adjustment at the start of it’s travel, ditto FM depth for the oscillators. However this is consistent across both Taiga models.
“However, having the blend of complex West Coast style Oscillators, a multimode filter AND a resonant Low Pass Gate really gives a wide palette of sounds for the curious synthesist,” he adds.
Watch the review and share your thoughts on the TAIGA Keyboard in the comments!
Developer Geert Bevin – the author of the original MPE specification – announced via Facebook that “After 2 years of weekly meetings with the MPE working group, many discussions, heated debates, over 60 revisions, the MIDI 2.0 Profile for MPE is finally available for download from the new MIDI Association website.”
The MIDI-CI Profile for MIDI Polyphonic Expression (MPE) specification makes it possible for artists to perform independent gestures for each musical note, with up to three dimensions of expression. With MPE, every note a musician plays can be articulated individually for much greater expressiveness. MPE already has broad support from many DAWs, synthesizers and controllers.
The specification describes a recommended way of using individual MIDI Channels in MIDI 1.0 and/or MIDI 2.0 to achieve per-note control, enabling richer communication between increasingly expressive MIDI hardware and software.
Hypersynth has introduced the Hcard-101, a multibank memory card for expanding Korg M1, WS, DS8 and A1 external memory.
The Hcard-101 serves as a seamless replacement for discontinued Korg “MCR-03” RAM card. It boasts the capacity to store up to 126 banks of data, all without concerns about battery lifespan and potential data loss.
Features:
Memory Capacity: Supports up to 126 banks, segmented as follows: (M1:64 banks, WS: 40 banks, DS8:24 banks, A1:16 banks).
Pre-Loaded Soundbanks: Comes with 73 pre-loaded soundbanks, including 57 from Korg ROM cards. Additionally, it contains 11 Hypersynth categorized banks specifically for M1 and more.
Touch Pad Accessibility: Instantly switch between different banks using 4 touch pads. Display: Features a 128×128 pixel OLED display (free angle).
Adaptive Display: Automatic rotation feature corrects display orientation if the card is inserted in reverse, especially useful for rack-mount devices.
Enhanced Memory Protection: An independent “Memory Protect” option for each bank, offering protection without locking the entire card.
Customization: Allows user-defined names for banks.
Quick Bank Navigation: Easily navigate between banks via the bank list menu.
Efficient Management: Use the “Bank Copy” function to duplicate banks without overwriting the internal memory of the synth.
Battery-Free: Operates without the need for a battery.
Robust Build: CNC metal case sporting a scratch-resistant grey anodized finish.
Compatibility: Drop-in replacement for the Korg “MCR-03” RAM card.
Extensive Device Compatibility: Works seamlessly with Korg M1, M1-EX, M1R, M1R-EX, T1, T2, T3, WS, WS-EX, WS-A/D, DS8, and A1.
M1 Dedicated Features:
Format Decoding: Displays the format of the selected bank on the main screen. (100prg/100cmb, 50prg/50cmb/4200seq, 7700seq).
Capture Program: Presents valuable details about the chosen program, including its compatibility with M1/M1EX, or any requirements for an external PCM card.
List Program: Showcases 8 program names simultaneously, allowing for quick access and browsing of desired sounds.
Bank Info: Provides a comprehensive report highlighting the number of programs in the chosen bank that utilize M1 waveforms, M1EX waveforms, or External PCM card waveforms.
Wavestation Dedicated Feature:
Dynamic Update: Automatically updates the card name on the Wavestation display upon selecting a new bank on the Hcard.
Built-In SoundBanks:
Hcard-101 comes with 73 pre-loaded soundbanks, featuring many of the rarest Korg ROM cards and factory preload data for supported synthesizers. In addition, it includes 11 categorized banks specifically for M1.
