Previously known for its EssenceFM synth, Kodamo has now taken the wraps off the Mask 1, a new polysynth that uses the company’s ‘bitmask’ synthesis technique.
The instrument made its debut at SoundMIT 22, which took place last weekend. Mask 1 is a 10-voice polyphonic synth that’s powered by two oscillators (each with 200 built-in waveforms), a noise generator and a 12-state variable filter.
The bitmasking technique works by splitting a sine wave into multiple parts which are then rearranged in different ways, the theory being that this will enable you to create both classic and entirely new sounds.
Mask 1 other features include seven envelopes per voice, two LFOs and 15 modulation destinations. Control comes via a 61-note Fatar keyboard that responds to velocity and aftertouch but, are subject to change till it is released.
The rest of the interface is cryptic, with lots of mechanical keyboard-style buttons and just a small display.
Kodamo MASK 1 is currently in development and is expected to be available in March 2023
Little Radiator is free music software. Though it’s free plugin but there are many professional producers and musicians using free plugins, as well.
Example, Vincent Fenton – artist also known as FJK (French Kiwi Juice) has just revealed that his favourite digital distortion is none other than SoundToys’ super-simple Little Radiator.
Explaining his love for the effect, he says: “It’s such a simple plugin – there’s literally just two knobs on it. It’s just one called heat and one called mix, and it’s been my favourite digital distortion for probably the last three years.
“I use this every time I need distortion, or even if I don’t need distortion but need something to feel a little bit dirtier,” adds Fenton. “I really love it. It’s one of the most pleasing digital distortions I’ve heard.”
FKJ goes on to say that, while he’ll use outboard analogue distortion gear when he’s at home in his studio – he likes to make his preamps crack up because “it’s fun to do” – he thinks that LIttle Radiator can achieve very similar results.
“This always works,” he enthuses. “You get very close to [the sound] of the analogue console distorting, that special sound that you have with that. You get pretty close to that with this.”
XO Devices has launched a Kickstarter project to fund production of a new line of 1U drum modules, based on the voices of the classic Roland TR-808 drum machine.
The line includes the Acid Bass Drum, Snare Drum, Hi-Hats and Low/Mid/High Conga/Tom.
While the series is 1U, they also offer adapters that let you use 3 rows of 1U modules in the Intellijel format within any 3U rack. Also available in the add-ons is MP40, a multi-power cable that allows powering 3 modules while using a single socket on your bus board.
*Note: Crowdfunding projects can involve risk, which is documented at the project site.
