Alex Theakston of Mylar Melodies – In his latest video – takes an in-depth look at the new Moog Labyrinth synthesizer.
*Note: This is a sponsored video, so it’s part of Moog’s marketing for the Labyrinth. But, as usual, Theakston does a thorough job of introducing and demoing the new synth. If you want to get a better idea of the Labyrinth’s synth voice and how the sequencer works, the video does a good job of covering them, and then features a wide variety of musical demos.
“Labyrinth is well suited to Techno and so there is a lot of techno in the video,” notes Theakston, “but there is ambient and more in there!”
Topics:
00:00 What’s a Labyrinth?
01:46 Voice Explained
11:32 Sequencers Explained
26:32 Mavis & Laby Jam
30:50 The Techno Bells
31:34 Proper Techno
32:40 Tuff Techno
34:27 Extremely Tuff Bass
36:49 Tuff Bass Techno
38:53 Duophonic Drums
43:39 Ambient Buffersaving
46:40 TR8 & Mavis MIDI Techno
53:34 Heaven & Hell
58:17 Cosmic Family Jam
1:04:43 Post Credits Scene
Watch the video and then share your thoughts on the Moog Labyrinth in the comments!
Today, Moog Music has officially introduced its Labyrinth, the latest in their line of all-in-one semi-modular analog synthesizers.
Like the Mother-32, DFAM, Subharmonicon & Spectravox, the Moog Labyrinth can be used as a standalone synth module, or integrated into larger Eurorack modular systems.
A semi-modular analogue machine, this represents a departure from past Moog instruments in that it offers a new voice architecture with unique oscillators, a different filter topology, wavefolding and parallel processing. There are also dual generative sequencers, which can be intertwined for polyrhythmic expression.
“Labyrinth is designed to be an engine of sonic exploration,” says Moog’s Rick Carl, System Architect and Lead Hardware Engineer on the new synth. “It allows users to create evolving sequences and rich timbres. It’s like having a compositional companion that navigates through a labyrinth of sound, constantly reconfiguring and surprising you with new sonic landscapes.”
Labyrinth comes in 60HP format can be used either standalone or part of a Eurorack setup. Its 32 patch points facilitate extensive modulation and routing options.
What they say about it:
“Departing from traditional Moog instruments, Labyrinth introduces a new voice architecture with unique oscillators, a different filter topology, wavefolding, and parallel processing. This innovative design also features unique dual intertwining generative sequencers to help inspire new compositional ideas.
As part of Moog’s semi-modular family, Labyrinth stands out as a unique tool for auditory exploration. Its dual generative sequencers and parallel voice architecture enable the creation of evolving soundscapes and intricate polymetric melodies. More than just an instrument, Labyrinth is an idea machine, offering limitless sonic potential that adapts to both live performances and studio sessions.
In a compact 60HP format, Labyrinth excels both as a standalone synthesizer and an integral part of larger Eurorack setups. Its flexible architecture allows musicians to add color and depth to any musical arrangement, from ambient soundscapes to dynamic rhythmic patterns. The instrument’s patch bay facilitates extensive modulation and connectivity with other modular gear, making it a versatile addition to any setup.”
Features:
Dual Generative Sequencers: Construct intertwining melodies and rhythms that mutate over time, uncovering new patterns and textures.
Parallel Voice Architecture: Features a combination of a voltage-controlled wavefolder and a state-variable filter for complex sound shaping.
Comprehensive Patch Bay: 32 patch points for extensive modulation and routing options.
Analog and MIDI Sync: Easily sync Labyrinth with other equipment using analog clock or MIDI.
Synthesist Jan Juno shared this extended tweak-a-thon of the still-to-be-officially released Moog Labyrinth.
The Labyrinth is an all-in-one synthesizer and sequencer, in Moog’s Mother-32 style standalone/Eurorack synth format.
Moog says that they will be officially introducing the Labyrinth on July 11th:
“We are excited to announce that Labyrinth will be bringing its fresh take on the classic West Coast sound to the world on July 11th. We can’t wait to show you what our newest creation is capable of, which is why we’ve collaborated with incredible artists and creators to create product demos and showcases.”
In the meantime, though, Juno’s unofficial demo offers a more musical exploration of the Labyrinth’s capabilities than previous videos that we’ve seen. The video starts off exploring more ambient textures, and the sound design options of the Labyrinth’s synth voice. The second half explores more of the sequencer’s capabilities, going from simple sequencing to automatically evolving sequencer to more of a techno vibe. Juno even tries out the polymetric capability of the Labyrinth’s dual sequencer channels.
Does this video do a better job of exploring the creative possibilities of the Moog Labyrinth?
Watch the video, and share your thoughts in the comments!
