To mark the 75 anniversary of its launch the Rhodes MK8/75AE – a careful, precise remake of the classic – has been given even more cosmetic bells and whistles to mark the occasion and make it that bit more desirable.
The 75th Anniversary Edition isn’t cheap, at $13,495 plus tax apiece.
The MK8/75AE adds a black keybed, black accents and includes the full (previously optional) on-board effects unit and controls. It’s Rhodes’ best MK8 yet.
The company has promised attention to detail and faithfulness to the original sound that is second to none.
The original run (in its various options and forms) completely sold out, so this new Limited Edition version (there are only 75 models being built) might just be your last chance to secure one.
You can apply for a chance to pre-order one by registering your interest on the Rhodes website now in advance of pre-orders officially opening on the 15 September. But do be prepared to be asked for 50% of that $13,495 plus tax upfront to secure your order and be prepared to wait six months for delivery. Good luck!
Yamaha has officially introduced the MODX+, a major update to their MODX line of portable synthesizers that brings the synth’s capabilities closer to their flagship Montage line.
The MODX was launched in September 2018 being inspired by their top end, MONTAGE workstation keyboards but arriving at a much more affordable price point through different choices of materials (plastics rather than metals) and chipping away at memory, ins and outs and other ‘pro’ luxury features to deliver keyboards that to a closed eye did the same job but delivered far less wallet shock.
Now four years later the MODX+ range is officially revealed.
The updated MODX+ line features three keyboards: MODX8+, MODX7+ and MODX6+. Each of the synths offer more memory, greater polyphony and improved haptics over their MODX counterparts.
Yamaha MODX+ Upgrades
The three new synthesizers feature 1.75 GB of internal flash memory, an upgrade of 75 percent compared to the original models, giving you more space for custom samples and synth sound libraries. The MODX+ synths also offer more polyphony, with 128- note stereo AWM2 and 128-note FM-X polyphony.
The sound on board is AWM2 sample based (the MONTAGE is famous for its one-keyboard-does-it-all orchestra, brass, pianos and more) plus advanced FM-X for FM synth tones.
Yamaha says that they’ve also improved the line’s haptics, by rubber-coating both the modulation and pitch bend wheels for better grip and control, giving the MODX+ more of the Montage feel.
Other Features:
The MODX+ improvements build on an already-powerful synth engine.
MODX+ still features both sound engines: AWM2 stereo samples for natural-sounding instruments, and FM-X frequency modulation synthesis for synth sounds. The MODX+ also allows for up to 13 simultaneous Dual Insert effects and three additional Master effects to shape your sounds.
Seamless Sound Switching prevents notes from cutting off when switching to a different performance. The extensive sound library covers original sounds as well as compatibility with MONTAGE, MOTIF XS/XF, MOXF and even DX and TX sounds (via the free FM converter available at YamahaSynth.com). With Motion Control and a programmable matrix, these sounds can be dynamically performed, mixed and combined.
Three Yamaha MODX+ Models:
The Yamaha MODX+ series features three different models, with keyboards tailored for different types of players:
MODX6+: features 61 semi-weighted keys for sound designers and producers wanting deep synthesis capabilities;
MODX7+: features 76 semi-weighted keys for keyboardists needing a wide variety of sound, including all the layering and splitting they might need.
MODX8+: features 88 graded hammer keys for players that want an authentic acoustic piano touch.
The Yamaha MODX8+, MODX7+ and MODX6+ are available immediately, pricing:
MODX6+: $1,699.00 MODX8+: $2,499.00
MODX7+: $1,999.00 More information can be found on the Yamaha website.
Tiptop Audio and Buchla USA have announced that the Model 245t Sequential Voltage Source – a Euro-format version of the classic Buchla step sequencer – is now shipping.
With the 200 Series project, Buchla has teamed up with Tiptop Audio to resume production of Don Buchla’s 200 series, but adapted to the popular Eurorack standard.
What they shared in their update:
“The modules are packed and are now starting to ship to our dealers. The module is $245, pre orders will be open shortly worldwide, so please follow up with your favorite dealer.
Although we couldn’t fill the entire backlog, we managed to source parts to make a decent size run of these and we hope most of you will be able to get her/his order fulfilled. A follow up batch is in planning stage already too. We highly recommend checking the 245t user manual, to get to know this lovely module well.
Alongside the 245t, dealers are getting fresh stock of Model 281t Quad Function Generator. Production quantity is close to overall backorders so hopefully most of you will get your order fulfilled.”
The next module in their Buchla Eurorack line is the Model 257t Dual Voltage Processor, which they expect to ship by the end of September.
The Model 245t Sequential Voltage Source is available now to pre-order via Perfect Circuit and other vendors, priced at $245.
