Firmware developer Amos Gaines offers an overview of the FR 777, a TB-303 inspired bassline synth that goes far beyond the capabilities of the original.
Initial production of the Future Retro 777 is being funded via a Kickstarter project, with initial units expected to start shipping in May. It’s expected to be available to order in October/November 2026 at $1,199 MSRP.
Developer Stuart Frederich-Smith shared this sneak preview of SampleStack, a native macOS app for managing audio samples for Eurorack modules and standalone samplers.
The application promises to automate and streamline sample conversion and management for a variety of samplers, including:
Intellijel Multigrain
Make Noise Morphagene
ALM Busy Circuits Squid Salmple
Erica Synths Sample Drum
Music Thing Modular Radio Music
1010music Blackbox/Bluebox
Elektron Octatrack & Digitakt
Features:
Browse and organize sample libraries with hierarchical folder view
Auto-detect module type from SD card structure
Validate samples against hardware requirements (sample rate, bit depth, channels, duration)
Convert incompatible samples to the correct format
Non-destructive audio editing with waveform display
Cue point/splice marker editing for Morphagene and Sample Drum
Strymon has introduced NightSky, a new reverb plugin for Mac and Windows, based on their hardware effect of the same name.
Here’s what they have to say about NightSky:
“Forget what you know about reverb, and prepare to experience ambience in a completely new way.
With the NightSky plugin, you can create vast soundscapes from just a few notes, and apply pitch and harmonic manipulation to your reverb tails with synth-like filter sweeps. It fundamentally changes what’s possible in the world of reverb, bringing new sonic inspiration with every twist of a control.”
Features:
3 reverb textures: Choose between Sparse (granular), Dense (plate-style), and Diffuse (atmospheric wash) engines for varied reflection behaviors.
Variable process rate: Allows for real-time continuous control of reverb pitch and core size simultaneously.
8-step sequencer: A powerful tool for sequencing pitch changes of the reverb core, capable of running at a tapped tempo or synced to MIDI clock.
Voice section: Dedicated controls for Shimmer, Glimmer, and Drive to enhance the harmonic spectrum of the reverberated signal.
Synth-style filter: Includes a 4-pole, 24dB/octave resonant low-pass filter for sweeping the reverb output.
Modulation section: Features six selectable waveforms (triangle, square, ramp, saw, random, and envelope) with multiple modulation targets.
Quantized pitch: Size and Pitch controls can be set to smooth operation or quantized to half-steps and specific musical scales.
Infinite sustain: A dedicated “Infinite” function allows for the freezing of audio within the reverb core to create endless drones.
Integrated drive: Soft-clipping non-linear saturation that can be applied pre or post-reverb for added grit and character.
Preset management: Instant access to 16 on-board presets with the ability to store hundreds more via the plugin interface.
Scalable UI: High-resolution user interface that can be resized to fit any modern screen setup.
Full automation: Every parameter is automatable within your DAW for complex, evolving soundscapes.
