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Glitchmachines has introduced Skein, an FM synthesizer that they say is “focused on experimental sound design and electronic music production.”

Skein features 4 operators with skew controls and noise, as well as a flexible modulation matrix with per-cell modulation, per-operator feedback and eight user-definable algorithm presets.

Key parameters can be targeted by numerous modulation sources, including 4 LFOs with 15 wave shapes, 4 modulation sequencers with various utilities and up to 32 steps, and 4 multi-mode envelopes. Other features include two versatile multi-mode filters, and an effects processing chain that offers 4 multi-effects.

What they have to say about it:

“We’ve taken an unconventional approach with Skein.

Instead of replicating the classic digital FM synths of the past, we set out to create a new instrument that is primarily focused on sound design and sonic experimentation.

With a multitude of powerful modulation sources and a variety of processors such as distortion, bit crusher, chorus, phaser, delay, reverb and buffer effects, Skein is capable of generating an incredibly diverse and expressive range of tones and timbres.”

The official video intro:

Features:

• 4 Operator Modules with Skew & Noise
• FM Matrix with Per-Cell Modulation
• 8 Overwritable Factory FM Algorithms
• Flexible Modulation Panel System
• 4 LFOs with 15 Wave Shapes & Scopes
• 4 Sequencers with 32 Steps & Utilities
• 4 Multi-Mode Amplitude Envelopes
• 2 Versatile Multi-Mode Filters
• Poly Mode with 12 Voice Polyphony
• Monophonic Mode with Glide
• Quad Multi-Effects Chain with 7 Effects
• 160 Presets across 4 Preset Banks
• Windows & Mac VST3/AU 64bit

Glitchmachines Skein Audio Demo:

Skein is available now for Windows & macOS for $89.

The acclaimed Nord Organ is back – reborn and reimagined as the all-new Nord Organ 3.

The 2025 NAMM Show is fast approaching, and manufacturers of all manner of musical instruments and studio gear are unveiling new products in advance of the show.

Hot on the reel of the news that Ashun Sound Machines (ASM), makers of the Hydrasynth parent company MEDELI Electronics has applied for a US patent for the name ‘Leviasynth’. Clavia has announced the release of Nord Organ 3, a rebranded sequel to its Nord C2D electronic organ – first released all the way back in 2012 – that promises “massive improvements” to sound, design and performance.

The Nord Organ 3 with improved organ engine, new modulation effects and rotary speaker emulation.

The dual-manual Nord Organ 3 boasts a dramatically redesigned front panel that now occupies the breadth of its 61-key triple-sensor keyboard, with an OLED display in the centre and four sets of physical drawbars, equipped with LEDs that helpfully indicate the drawbar settings of the current preset.

Organ 3’s organ engine has also received a considerable overhaul, with its enhanced Hammond B3 emulation now featuring an improved chorus and vibrato and both Farfisa and Vox organ models receiving an upgrade: Clavia says the engine now offers an “unsurpassed level of detail and realism”. Alongside these we have two unique pipe organ emulations, and new synth bass options based on classic pedal synths.

The instrument’s effects section has been bolstered with an all-new spring reverb, an expanded reverb section with six reverb types, an analogue delay mode and new modulation effects, including phaser, tremolo, ring mod, flanger and chorus. There’s also a brand new rotary speaker emulation onboard with multiple mic placement options and drive modes available.

Shipping in May, Nord Organ 3 is now available to order and priced at $3290/£3222/€3799. Find out more on Nord website.

The 2025 NAMM Show – the annual trade show of The National Association of Music Merchants (NAMM) – is scheduled for January 21–25 in Anaheim, California.

The annual event provides an opportunity for music merchants to see the latest in musical instruments, and it’s traditionally been one of the most important events of the year for companies making new gear introductions.

This year’s NAMM Show is spread over five days. But the trade show is only scheduled for three of those days, one day less than it used to be.

While the LA area has been devastated by recent fires, NAMM President and CEO John Mlynczak says that “Anaheim is located 60 miles southeast of the wildfires and is currently unaffected.”

Here’s NAMM Week 2025 Preliminary Schedule:

• Tuesday, January 21
  • NAMM Foundation Day of Service and Networking with the Pros
  • Education offerings for exhibiting brands, including a workshop on influencer-marketing strategy
  • Networking opportunities
  • International Networking Reception
• Wednesday, January 22
  • Global Media Day, featuring iconic brands and formal executive remarks that focus on new music industry product introductions from top music brands to startups
  • Education sessions and workshops on the latest in AI for business, content creation and the financial management of a music business, as well as hands-on Dante training for pro audio.
  • International Coalition meetings and global receptions
  • Top 100 Dealer Awards ceremony
• Thursday, January 23
  • Industry Insights breakfast session with NAMM President and CEO John Mlynczak, along with music industry special guests
  • A robust program of educational sessions for retail, manufacturer brands, pro audio, entertainment technology, event safety and music education professionals, as well as artists and college music business students
  • Exhibits open 10 am to 6 pm at the Anaheim Convention Center
  • Yamaha Concert Series and Bands@NAMM
  • TEC Awards
• Friday, January 24
  • NAMM U Breakfast Session Focusing on Business Marketing Trends for 2025 & Beyond
  • Education sessions continue for retail, manufacturer brand, pro audio, entertainment technology, event safety and music education professionals, as well as artists and college music business students
  • Exhibits open 10 am to 6 pm at the Anaheim Convention Center
  • Yamaha Concert Series and Bands@NAMM
  • Parnelli Awards
• Saturday, January 25
  • Grand Rally for Music Education
  • Best in Show awards
  • Exhibits open 10 am to 5 pm at the Anaheim Convention Center
  • Bands@NAMM
  • SheRocks Awards

A full list of 2025 NAMM Show exhibitors, companies and brands from around the globe is available at the event site.