Wee Noise Makers has launched a project to fund production of the PGB-1, a compact, all-in-one, open-source groove box.
The PGB-1 is designed to be customized and modified to your taste. The front panel is a bare PCB, designed with the open-source software Kicad. The production file will be available so that anyone can make its own version with custom graphics and get it manufactured for a few bucks.
PGB-1 is also hackable with CircuitPython, C\C++, and Ada support for programming your own synthesizers, video games, or any audio-based projects.
Features:
All-in-one: you only need one device to craft complete music pieces
Powerful: Drums, bass, lead, samples, etc. with advanced sequencing features
Truly pocket-size: 10 x 6.6 x 1.5 cm, smaller footprint than a smartphone
Hackable: Designed for customization, open-source firmware, and compatible with several programming languages (including Python)
Production of the Wee Noise Makers PGB-1 is being funded via a Crowd Supply project, and it is available to project backers for $225.
This vintage synth review via synth4ever, takes an in-depth look at the Waldorf Q synthesizer.
“The Waldorf Q is still a very powerful, deep and versatile synth,” they note. “Even 20+ years later.”
The review covers the features, sounds and a demo of the Waldorf Q synthesizer, which was originally released in 1999.
The Waldorf Q is a virtual analog polyphonic synthesizer that features 3 oscillators, 4 envelopes and dual multi-mode filters per voice. It offers a 61-note keyboard, with velocity and aftertouch, arpeggiator, a step sequencer, and more.
If you’ve used the Waldorf Q, share your thoughts on it in the comments!
Unknown Devices has introduced the Topo T16, a compact MIDI controller that offers three “play modes”, each of which you can customize.
The modes include:
In Keyboard Mode, Topo makes full use of its pressure sensing ability to convert your finger movements to Velocity and per-note Pressure Midi Messages.
In Joystick Mode, the keys control a virtual cursor on an XY plane, sending CC messages.
Fader Mode transforms the device into a 4-channel control surface, with each column of keys acting as individual faders.
4 independent banks enable you to store and recall your favorite setups.
Features:
Expressive and compact Midi controller with pressure-sensitive keys
16 magnetic-sensing keys with velocity and aftertouch
Touch-strip for controlling mode-related
Keyboard, Joystick, and Fader play modes
4 Memory Banks, each with it’s own settings
Highly Customizable, from the layout to the response curve
WebMidi-based configurator for deep customization
USB-C for power and midi in/out
MIDI TRS output, both A and B modes supported
Experimental OSC support
3d printed, high quality case, STLs available for free
The Topo T16 is available now to preorder for €159 excl. vat, ships on June 3rd.
