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e-instruments Intros Slower, A Tape-based Tone Generator Put Your Music On The Fast Track To Success

9 Apr, 2025  No Comment


Slower, e-instruments’ new tape-based tone generator – a lovingly-crafted Kontakt library that’s based on a carefully curated collection of half-speed samples. Suddenly – but also slowly – you have access to a huge bank of keys, guitars, strings, brass, synth and other sounds of the sort that you have simply never heard before.

Here’s the Official Walkthrough:

These were captured using four different types of vintage tape machine:

  • Studio: Studer A812 and Revox PR99 – large open reel to reel
  • Portable: Uher 4400 Report IC and Uher 4400 Report Monitor – small reel to reel
  • Cassette: Tascam Portastudio 424mkiii – standard cassette
  • Dictaphone: Sony M650v dictaphone – micro cassette

Each of which has its own distinct character. The common denominator is that they can all impart the kind of warmth and depth that you simply wouldn’t get from a digital recording.

Why drop these recordings to half-speed tape, though? To create blissful, rich and pitched-down textures that emphasize those analogue qualities, such as wobble, noise and flutter.

Because e-instruments has gone to such great lengths to hone the source material, your first hours with Slower are going to be spent simply playing these gorgeous sounds. Expect acoustic and electric pianos, guitars of every flavour, evolving strings, breathy woodwinds and brass and classic synths, all with that half-speed twist.

From here, you’ll likely set about experimenting with the various processing options that are on offer. Slower features include 27 effects, sample reversing, modulation tools (LFOs, a step modulator and aftertouch support, for example) and the ability to dial in just the right amount of tape degradation. And if you want to get hands-on fast, there are three macro controls, each of which adjusts multiple parameters with a single fader. They’re perfect for automating and morphing sounds in real-time and for live performance.

And let’s not forget that you can instantly switch between those four different tape machines. Whether you want to go hi- or lo-fi, dirty or clean, there’s a suitable option.

Above all, you’re invited to explore. Whether you’re a producer, musician or composer, this endless supply of atmospheres and soundscapes won’t just help you to finish your current projects – it’ll also inspire whole new ones.

Audio Demos:

Slower is currently available at the introductory price of $/€99, rather than the regular $/€149, but this offer is only available between 9 and 13 April.

Find out more on e-instruments website.

Cre8audio Reveals Assembler: Vintage Analog Audio Mixer For Modern Synth Enthusiast

8 Apr, 2025  No Comment


Today, Cre8audio also releases Assembler, a synth-focused analog audio mixer designed to deliver vintage console sound with intuitive hands-on control. Developed in collaboration with Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers, Assembler combines the warmth of classic analog mixers with a more modern workflow tailored for contemporary electronic artists, plus a few other fantastic sound sculpting tools.

The official Assembler intro video:

Vintage Sound, Modern Control. Inspired by the iconic consoles that defined decades of music production, Assembler brings the same warmth, character, and tonal shaping to today’s producers and performers. Featuring custom-designed Pittsburgh Modular analog circuitry, the mixer utilizes signal contouring and soft compression to unify the overall mix. This process emulates the beloved sonic characteristics of vintage recordings, offering a rich and cohesive sound.

Comprehensive Mixing Power. With ten audio inputs split into three distinct channel types, Assembler integrates into any live or studio setup.

Key features include:

  • Powerful preamps with up to 20x gain boost for line-level signals, clarity enhancement, or saturation.
  • Vintage tape saturation style contouring and soft compression on all channels and auxes
  • Three assignable aux sends for external effects and sub-mixing.
  • Detailed monitoring and performance flexibility with Three-segment LED meters, independent headphone Cue, and channel Mutes
  • Vintage-inspired high and low EQ with ±15 dB boost or cut on channels 1 and 2.
  • Six mono inputs with dedicated pan controls.
  • Two stereo inputs
  • Universal compatibility with Eurorack and line-level instruments

Unmatched Auxiliary Flexibility. Assembler’s three Aux sends provide extensive creative routing options. Two stereo returns and one mono return, each with independent gain adjustments up to 2.7x, enable professional-grade signal blending and effect integration, an essential tool for sound sculpting and performance.

Designed for Seamless Integration. Prioritizing ease of use, Assembler features a one-knob-per-function layout for frustration-free mixing. Whether adjusting EQ, Aux routing, panning, or levels, every function is easily accessible. The mixer is equally suited for line-level instruments and Eurorack signals, making it a versatile choice for any setup. A dedicated headphone output with a separate cue mix ensures precise monitoring, crucial for live performances.

Professional Analog Sound at an Accessible Price. Unlike many other Eurorack mixers, Assembler eliminates unnecessary complexity to focus on superior audio quality, reliability, and user-friendly design. Offering professional-grade sound at a highly competitive price, it stands out as a must-have tool for electronic musicians, live performers, and studio producers alike.

For those who push sonic boundaries, Assembler even self-oscillates, making it a powerful tool for noise artists and experimental musicians.

Cre8audio Assembler is available for preorder now, and is expected to ship to customers mid–May 2025. Street pricing is projected to be $399.99/€319.98. For more information, visit the Cre8Audio website.

Cre8audio Unveils Boom Chick, ‘Pure Analog’ Drum Machine

8 Apr, 2025  No Comment


Cre8audio is the brand behind two semi-modular desktop synths, West Pest and East Beast, developed in partnership with Pittsburgh Modular.

Today, Cre8audio introduced Boom Chick, a “pure analog” drum machine in Euro-compatible standalone format.

Boom Chick blends the inspiration of classic drum machines with “cutting-edge analog circuitry” from Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers.

“Boom Chick fuses expressive percussion voices with an advanced and intuitive sequencer, offering deep rhythmic exploration for today’s musicians and producers,” they note.

Here’s the official Boom Chick intro video:

Revolutionary Analog Percussion. Inspired by the hands-on playability of classic drum machines, Boom Chick delivers the character of analog percussion while embracing “new, forward-thinking design”.

Its knob-per-function interface ensures easy jamming and fine-tuning, making it an immersive drum machine for musicians seeking a tactile beat-making experience.

Hand Crafted Analog Drum Circuits. Designed by Pittsburgh Modular Synthesizers, Boom Chick, an Eurorack-friendly analog drum machine features five uniquely designed analog drum voices: Kick, Snare, Drum 1, Drum 2, and Hats.

Rather than relying on vintage designs, Boom Chick utilizes new analog synthesis concepts that provide fresh sonic possibilities, while maintaining the punch and warmth of traditional drum machines.

The Sound of Boom Chick

  • Kick Drum: Fat, deep, and punchy with extensive shaping controls.
  • Snare Drum: Dynamic and expressive, from crisp to experimental.
  • Drum 1 & 2: Multi-functional voices for toms, claps, cymbals, and creative textures.
  • Hats: Custom oscillator noise matrix for bright, crisp hi-hats and metallic percussive elements.

Boom Chick’s percussion palette is vast and endlessly customizable, offering everything from classic drum machine sounds to far-out, futuristic beats.

Modern Sequencer.  Boom Chick’s built-in sequencer offers depth without complexity, providing an intuitive workflow with two primary modes:

  • Step Mode – Program beats with precision.
  • Live Mode – Perform and record beats in real-time.

The sequencer also includes:

  • Step Shift, Roll, and Chance – For intricate rhythmic variation.
  • Humanize, Swing, and Quantize – To fine-tune groove and timing.
  • Per-Voice Polyrhythms – Set different step lengths for evolving beats.
  • Generative Rhythm Tools – Built-in Euclidean pattern and sequence generators.
  • 64 Save Slots & 16 Song Memory – Store and recall your creations.

With up to 64-step sequencing and advanced sequencer effects, Boom Chick invites deep experimentation, whether in the studio or on stage.

Seamless Integration: Modular Flexibility. Boom Chick is designed to integrate effortlessly into any setup:

  • Individual Drum Trigger Inputs and Outputs
  • 5mm TRS MIDI In/Out (Type A)
  • Analog Clock In/Out and Reset In/Out
  • Dedicated Line and Headphone Outputs
  • Eurorack Compatible (40HP, 30mm depth, +12V/250mA, -12V/200mA)

Boom Chick functions as a standalone instrument or as a Eurorack module, making it handy for both studio use and live performances.

Cre8audio Boom Chick is available for preorder now and is expected to ship to customers in mid–May 2025. Street pricing is projected to be $399.99/ €319.98

For more information, visit the Cre8Audio website.

 

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