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Shakmat Modular has introduced two new modules for Eurorack modular systems: Banshee Reach & Jeweler Cast.

Banshee Reach:
The module’s heart is based on a triangle core VCO, with thru-zero frequency/phase modulation capabilities. In addition to delivering independently the typical analog waveforms, the Banshee Reach has a vari output, combining a continuously variable waveform, crossfading with a sub-octave generator.

The analog core has been completed with a digital control for frequency locking and octave transposition, which helps make the Banshee Reach performance-oriented. Other features include LFO mode, hard or soft sync, digital noise modulation and PWM.

Jeweler Cast:
The Jeweler Cast melts, bends, and chisels all types of signals, audio, or CV. Composed of two independent sections, the Mix, and the Shaper, the Jeweler Cast combines a ring modula-tor, a crossfader, a wavefolder and a distortion.

This compact, fully analog module can manipulate basic waveforms and complex signals in a wide variety of ways.

Shakmat says that at Superbooth 2023, they will be showing both of these modules, plus some other new modules that they have in the works.

Both modules are available now, with the following pricing:
Banshee Reach – €290
Jeweler Cast – €185

Reliq is a new matrix-based “hybrid control surface” that can be used to route and mix audio, sequence your music and control your DAW.

The majority of Reliq’s top surface is taken up by a 16×16 grid of buttons. This can be used to connect any input to any output with a single press, and you can store and recall signal routings in real time.

When in its sequencing guise, Reliq offers 16 polyphonic sequencers, while modes include Euclidean and Stochastic. You get eight voices of polyphony and 128 patterns per track, an LFO and envelope per track, real-time parameter recording and MPE compatibility.

When it comes to modulation, you can draw automation, LFO shapes and envelopes on the button grid.

DAW control features the option to trigger loops and clips, adjust mixer and instrument settings and arrange clips. A dedicated plugin enables you to sync and control Reliq from your DAW, as well.

Naturally, there’s plenty of I/O:  three MIDI Outs, one MIDI In, USB-C MIDI, USB Host, 16 x gate and 32 x CV, reset out and clock out. The CV/gate connectivity and 16×16 matrix I/O comes in its own Eurorack-compatible case; this can be powered from the main Reliq unit via USB-C or a Eurorack power supply.

It’s difficult to know what to make of Reliq without seeing it in action. There are no videos to watch at this stage, but you can sign up for a launch invite on the website and receive a discount. The standard price will be $1,699.

Superbooth Berlin has opened the ticket presale for SUPERBOOTH23. The huge trade fair for electronic music instruments is happening May 11 – 13 at FEZ-Berlin.

This year’s Superbooth will have over 200 exhibitors from over 34 countries, presenting the latest in synthesizers and electronic music technology. The event also features workshops and presentations, along with quite a few musical performances and concerts, throughout the day and into the evening, on several indoor and outdoor stages at the FEZ.

Event organizers explain:

“At SUPERBOOTH23, there is something for everyone, from beginner to expert. Along with presenting the newest products, SUPERBOOTH thus also wants to provide an international platform for social, technical and artistic exchange.

“SUPERBOOTH23’s welcoming and inclusive spirit also manifests itself in its continuing initiative for a more inclusive industry, with the declared goal of making electronic music-making accessible to everyone. Thus, it is again hosting special workshops for women and non-binary participants, as well as a “Minibooth” for children and adole- scents under 14 that is happening in collaboration with the FEZ-Berlin one week before the main event.”   Tickets for Superbooth 23 are available now: One-day ticket: €39  Three-day ticket: €98