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Synthesist Starsky Carr – in his latest video – shares his take on the Erica Synths Syntrx II , the second generation of the three-voice synth that offers an original, modern take on the EMS VCS 3 concept.

“I want to bust two big myths,” notes Carr. “It’s not as complicated as it looks, and it’s not just a crazy sci-fi sound effects machine.”

If you like crazy sci-fi sound effects, though, the Syntrx II has you covered.

Watch the video and share your thoughts on the Erica Synths Syntrx II in the comments!

Topics covered:

Syntrx II vs the original EMS VCS3 / EMS Synthi — key similarities and differences

Syntrx II vs Syntrx I — what changed and why

The 16×16 digital pin matrix explained

Using the Syntrx II as a standard 3-oscillator monosynth

The trapezoid (looping) envelope in practice

All-analog signal path walkthrough

Onboard 3-channel sequencer, DSP reverb and delay, envelope follower

FM, self-oscillation, noise modulation, and filter techniques

Sample & hold circuit — how to set it up

The joystick as an LFO / recording modulation source

MIDI setup tips (offset fix, CC assignments for X and Y axes)

Patch saving — what it DOES and DOESN’T save, and why it matters

Pros and cons

In this live performance GESPRÄCHSKONZERT from Superbooth 2026, Nonlinear Labs demonstrates their C25 48-voice performance synthesizer.

The Nonlinear Labs C25 is built around the Phase 22 synthesis engine, combining expanded physical controls, a touchscreen interface, and deep expressive playability.

Details on pricing and availability for the C25 are still to be announced at the Nonlinear Labs site.

At Superbooth 2026, JoMoX previewed the Transcendor FM synthesizer.

In this video, via Sonic State, JoMoX founder Jürgen Michaelis offers an overview of the new Transcendor and a demo of its sonic possibilities.

Video Summary:

“At Superbooth 2026, we had the opportunity to delve into the Jomox range with Jürgen who introduced us to a notable prototype named the Transcendor This intriguing device blends elements from their renowned Mod FM synthesizer with a formant filter, generating unique sonic textures through its interaction with sensors and antennas. Unlike traditional devices, the Transcendor targets art performances, featuring multiple LFO applications to filters and noise.

The Transcendor is designed for collaborative art, allowing multiple performers to trigger sounds using fingertip sensors. It promises versatility with its portable design, powered by a power bank, and can communicate wirelessly to transmit sound to a central station. Integrating aspects of the T-Resonator, it caters to creating drones and experimental sounds, with the potential for real-time interaction in performance settings. Although still a prototype, its future development holds exciting possibilities for innovative sound art expression.”

Details on the JoMoX Transcendor are still to be announced at the company’s site.