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Synthesist Andy Whitmore – In his latest video – demonstrates how to program the classic Yamaha CS-80 synthesizer.

Whitmore discusses how each control on the CS-80 affects its sound, and how patch memory works on the classic synth. He also covers how to use the CS-80’s performance controls:

Video Summary:

“Master the Yamaha CS-80 with this in-depth programming guide! Explore filters, ADSR, LFO, aftertouch, ring modulator, chorus, tremolo, and presets to unlock its legendary sound.

Discover the secrets of the iconic Yamaha CS-80 in this comprehensive tutorial. We break down every control, slider, and button to help you understand its powerful features. Learn how to program its legendary filters, ADSR, LFO, aftertouch, ring modulator, brilliance, tremolo, and presets. Whether you own a CS-80 or use one of the famous CS-80 Clones (Arturia, Softube, Cherry Audio GX80), this video is your ultimate guide to this classic synthesiser.”

Topics covered:

0:00 – Introduction

0:38 – Patch memories: How they work on both sound banks

2:19 – Pulse width and sawtooth waveforms

3:05 – LFO and noise settings in the sound bank

3:27 – High-pass and low-pass filters

4:18 – CS-80 filter and ADSR (Attack, Decay, Sustain, Release)

4:52 – Sub-oscillator and amplifier ADSR

5:38 – Sound Bank 1: Aftertouch features

6:03 – Programming a brass pad sound

6:54 – Aftertouch filter (global controls)

7:13 – Keyboard volume and brilliance controls

8:12 – Global brilliance (cutoff frequency) and resonance

8:49 – Aftertouch modulation

9:03 – Global sustain settings

9:28 – Sub-oscillator (LFO) functionality

10:15 – Ring modulator: Exploring the feature

11:01 – “Doctor Who” intro sound design

11:23 – Ring modulator with four LFOs simultaneously

12:02 – Chorus effect

12:13 – Tremolo effect

12:21 – Glissando and portamento features

13:12 – Programming a bell sound

13:39 – Combining oscillators with the sub-oscillator: Creating brittle yet warm sounds

14:09 – Explanation of the two sound banks

15:03 – Summary and application to CS-80 simulations

Glitchmachines has introduced Skein, an FM synthesizer that they say is “focused on experimental sound design and electronic music production.”

Skein features 4 operators with skew controls and noise, as well as a flexible modulation matrix with per-cell modulation, per-operator feedback and eight user-definable algorithm presets.

Key parameters can be targeted by numerous modulation sources, including 4 LFOs with 15 wave shapes, 4 modulation sequencers with various utilities and up to 32 steps, and 4 multi-mode envelopes. Other features include two versatile multi-mode filters, and an effects processing chain that offers 4 multi-effects.

What they have to say about it:

“We’ve taken an unconventional approach with Skein.

Instead of replicating the classic digital FM synths of the past, we set out to create a new instrument that is primarily focused on sound design and sonic experimentation.

With a multitude of powerful modulation sources and a variety of processors such as distortion, bit crusher, chorus, phaser, delay, reverb and buffer effects, Skein is capable of generating an incredibly diverse and expressive range of tones and timbres.”

The official video intro:

Features:

• 4 Operator Modules with Skew & Noise
• FM Matrix with Per-Cell Modulation
• 8 Overwritable Factory FM Algorithms
• Flexible Modulation Panel System
• 4 LFOs with 15 Wave Shapes & Scopes
• 4 Sequencers with 32 Steps & Utilities
• 4 Multi-Mode Amplitude Envelopes
• 2 Versatile Multi-Mode Filters
• Poly Mode with 12 Voice Polyphony
• Monophonic Mode with Glide
• Quad Multi-Effects Chain with 7 Effects
• 160 Presets across 4 Preset Banks
• Windows & Mac VST3/AU 64bit

Glitchmachines Skein Audio Demo:

Skein is available now for Windows & macOS for $89.

The acclaimed Nord Organ is back – reborn and reimagined as the all-new Nord Organ 3.

The 2025 NAMM Show is fast approaching, and manufacturers of all manner of musical instruments and studio gear are unveiling new products in advance of the show.

Hot on the reel of the news that Ashun Sound Machines (ASM), makers of the Hydrasynth parent company MEDELI Electronics has applied for a US patent for the name ‘Leviasynth’. Clavia has announced the release of Nord Organ 3, a rebranded sequel to its Nord C2D electronic organ – first released all the way back in 2012 – that promises “massive improvements” to sound, design and performance.

The Nord Organ 3 with improved organ engine, new modulation effects and rotary speaker emulation.

The dual-manual Nord Organ 3 boasts a dramatically redesigned front panel that now occupies the breadth of its 61-key triple-sensor keyboard, with an OLED display in the centre and four sets of physical drawbars, equipped with LEDs that helpfully indicate the drawbar settings of the current preset.

Organ 3’s organ engine has also received a considerable overhaul, with its enhanced Hammond B3 emulation now featuring an improved chorus and vibrato and both Farfisa and Vox organ models receiving an upgrade: Clavia says the engine now offers an “unsurpassed level of detail and realism”. Alongside these we have two unique pipe organ emulations, and new synth bass options based on classic pedal synths.

The instrument’s effects section has been bolstered with an all-new spring reverb, an expanded reverb section with six reverb types, an analogue delay mode and new modulation effects, including phaser, tremolo, ring mod, flanger and chorus. There’s also a brand new rotary speaker emulation onboard with multiple mic placement options and drive modes available.

Shipping in May, Nord Organ 3 is now available to order and priced at $3290/£3222/€3799. Find out more on Nord website.