17 Jun, 2021
Modal Electronics has just released Firmware Update v1.1 for their COBALT8 line; – COBALT8, COBALT8M and COBALT8X, a free update that adds six new algorithms and user-requested workflow enhancements.
With COBALT8 Firmware v1.1, users have access to six new unique algorithms, focused on FM and AM oscillation models, complete with dual controls for precise sound sculpting capability.
These new algorithms include:
- FM Saw:Square: Frequency Modulation using a Sawtooth as the carrier and a Square as the modulator with full control over FM Depth (A) and Modulator Frequency Ratio (B)
- FM Square:Square: Frequency Modulation using a Square as both the carrier and modulator with full control over FM Depth (A) and Modulator Frequency Ratio (B)
- FM Tri:Square: Frequency Modulation using a Triangle as the carrier and a Square as the modulator with full control over FM Depth (A) and Modulator Frequency Ratio (B)
- Noise AM Saw: Sawtooth Wave amplitude modulated by a filtered noise source with full control over AM Depth (A) and Noise filter cutoff (B)
- Noise AM Square: Square Wave amplitude modulated by a filtered noise source with full control over AM Depth (A) and Noise filter cutoff (B)
- Noise AM Tri: Triangle Wave amplitude modulated by a filtered noise source with full control over AM Depth (A) and Noise filter cutoff (B)
Additionally, Firmware v1.1 also adds a variety of new feature updates and workflow enhancements, including a Master Clock Mode to continually send MIDI clock information to compatible studio peripherals.
Details are available at the Modal Electronics site.
17 Jun, 2021
Behringer has just offered some fresh insight into the scale of the challenge with an update on the progress of its clone, the DS-80.
In a Facebook post, Behringer says that, after painstaking development, it has now got its VCF and envelopes performing 100% identically. The cloning process has been made particularly difficult because all of the chips used in the original CS-80 are no longer available, as is any related documentation.
Replicating Yamaha classic CS-80 synth was never going to be easy so, Manchester-based analogue guru John Price has been forced to measure every function of the CS-80 voice board and then redesign the circuitry with current components.
This has been no easy task, partly because the CS-80 has an unusual VCO, VCF and waveshaper design, which is one of the key factors behind its unique sound.
The next step, says Behringer, is to complete the VCO and waveshaper circuitry and build a voice board for final testing and comparison.
It sounds like the release of the Behringer DS-80 is still some way off.
17 Jun, 2021
IK Multimedia has kicked off another music software giveaway. This time it is offering all subscribers to its newsletter – both new and existing – the T-RackS Classic Clipper dynamics processor for free. The T-RackS Classic Clipper usually retails for $50.
Instead of using peak limiting, this uses peak clipping to tame unruly peaks, which can give you a more transparent result. This makes it a popular technique among masting engineers. You can also use it to add a bit of harmonic saturation and warmth.
Offering a vintage look that befits its name, the Classic Clipper features just Gain, Slope and Output controls, so it should be pretty easy to use. Classic Clipper works in both T-RackS 5 and the free T-RackS 5 CS, which can be used standalone and as a plugin within your DAW.
Peak clipper is yours for nothing if you sign up to the IK newsletter. It is free until 29 June.
You can sign up for the IK Multimedia newsletter here.
