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Italian synth maker Jolin has introduced ROSA, a multi-mode crossfader, scanner, and switcher module for Eurorack modular systems.

ROSA has three distinct modes that let you shape and route signals in various ways:

• Scan Mode: In this mode, you can seamlessly morph between up to four inputs. The scanning circuit moves progressively from IN1 to IN4, with the option to loop back to IN1 for continuous transitions. By adjusting the KNEE control, you can choose whether the transitions are smooth and gradual or sharp and instantaneous.
• Wave Mode: In this mode, the four VCAs operate independently. Each VCA still follows the same control from the scanning circuit, but they are kept separate. This allows you to modulate four different channels independently, creating complex dynamic changes in your patch.
• Pass Mode: Here, a single input is distributed across up to four outputs. If more than an input is plugged, they will be mixed together. This is ideal for sending the same signal to multiple destinations, like quadraphonic speaker setups or different effects chains. The transition between outputs can be smooth or sharp, giving you full control over how the signal moves between outputs.

The KNEE control shapes how the transitions behave in all modes, letting you switch from soft fades to abrupt jumps, depending on your needs.

The SHUT input mutes all VCAs simultaneously, making it ideal for performance control or rhythmic muting. Since the VCAs are linear, amplitude control can be gradual or instantaneous, depending on the nature of the CV input.

The official ROSA intro video:

The ROSA is available now for €269.00.

David Hilowitz – In his latest video – takes an in-depth look at a forgotten record player keyboard for kids from 1977, the Panasonic Do-Re-Mi.

Hilowitz demonstrates how the keyboard worked when he got it, what he did to fix its problems, and then how it works repaired:

Video Summary:

“I recently got my hands on a pretty neat vintage item: the Panasonic Do-Re-Mi. It’s essentially a little analog synth / organ with a built in record player. Panasonic also sold a version with a built-in tape deck, and another even rarer unit that just contained the synth portion on its own. All three versions were released in 1977, along with the Panapic multimedia system.

The one I got was not in very good condition: I had to replace the capacitors, clean the keyboard, and replace the record needle, but I did eventually manage to get it back on its feet.

Naturally, the very first thing I did once I got it working was sample it. This proved to be quite an easy task as it has only one sound. “

The Panasonic Do-Re-Mi is a very limited instrument, but it also has a sound that’s very evocative of its time.

Hilowitz has sampled the Panasonic Do-Re-Mi and made it available as a free sample library.

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