Synthesist Starsky Carr – in his latest video – reviews the Behringer RD-78, a new drum machine that basically pairs the sequencing interface from their RD-8 and pairs it with the the sounds of the Roland CR-78 CompuRhythm drum machine.
Carr describes the RD-78 as ‘superbly cheesy’:
“The Behringer RD-78 is their take on the classic *Roland CompuRyhtm CR-78. The CR78 was famous for having user patterns, you could actually save your own!
You’ve heard it on loads of tracks, and as it was originally designed as an organ accompaniment – like all the OG drum machines – its got some wonderfully cheesy rhythms – who doesn’t love a Beguine, Foxtrot, Tango or Mambo?”
The sounds may be cheesy, and the preset rhythms, too. But, as Carr notes, the weirdness and cheesiness of the sounds can be a fun alternative to the 808/909 style sounds that are ubiquitous these days.
Watch the video and share your thoughts on the Behringer RD-78 in the comments!
Synthesist and sound designer Ian Dixon shared this video, offering his take on Korg multi/poly native, which is now available.
Korg multi/poly native is a fully-compatible software counterpart to their recently introduced hardware multi/poly synthesizer.
Dixon is an expert on Korg’s compact synthesizers, and has shared videos and sound libraries previously for the wavestate, modWave and opsix. His latest video, embedded above, showcases the range of the multi/poly, offers plenty of audio demos, and a deep dive into how it works.
Topics covered:
01:30 Introduction
03:09 What is Multi/Poly Native
04:57 Inspiration
05:30 Layer rotate
07:32 Oscillators
14:06 Wavetables
16:54 Waveshaping
17:59 Filters
24:55 Sync
26:52 Cross Mod
27:27 Ring mod
27:52 CMT
28:54 Motion Sequencer
39:02 Other features
42:30 Effects
46:24 Sound demos
View the demo and share your thoughts on the Korg multi/poly native in the comments!
The multi/poly native for Windows and Mac (VST3, AU and AAX) is available for $149 until March 31st, 2025 (normally $199).
Developer Cem Olcay has introduced ShapeStage, an AUv3 audio effect plugin that features a multi-stage morphing architecture.
Olcay says that ShapeStage is designed for:
Adding movement and evolution to static sounds
Creating complex rhythmic effects that respond to your playing
Designing unique atmospheric textures and soundscapes
Adding character and dimension to any audio source
Building custom effect chains with precise control
Features:
Multi-Stage Processing: Shape your sound through four distinct processing stages (A, B, C, D), each with independent parameter settings for drive, character, pitch shifting, time effects, motion, stereo spread, and texture.
Smooth Morphing Engine: Morph between stages to create evolving, dynamic effects that transform over time. Go from subtle warmth to extreme sonic manipulation with a single control.
Multiple FX Processors:
Drive: From subtle tube-like warmth to aggressive distortion that adds rich harmonic content
Character: Shape tonal quality with algorithms ranging from warm tape-like saturation to edgy wave-folding
Drift: Pitch shifting from -12 to +12 semitones with unique stereo detune capabilities
Motion: Delay processing (0-1000ms) with modulated feedback for evolving echo patterns
Flow: Dynamic feedback and modulation control creating movement within the time-based effects
Spread: Enhanced stereo imaging from focused center to dramatic width with frequency-dependent processing
Texture: Granular processing that creates complex sonic textures with variable density and character
Comprehensive Modulation System:
3 LFOs with multiple waveforms and tempo sync
2 loopable envelope generators with MIDI trigger support
Envelope follower that responds to your audio’s dynamics
Modulation matrix for complex routing possibilities
Extensive Modulation Matrix: Route any modulation source to virtually any parameter, with adjustable polarity and amount controls. Create pulsating rhythmic effects, smooth transitions, or dynamic responses to your playing.
AUv3 Plugin Format: Works with all AUv3-compatible hosts including AUM, Logic Pro, GarageBand, Loopy Pro, Cubasis, and more.
