Synth Geekery 339

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In episode 339 we talked about synths, eurorack, sequencers, drum machines, samplers, effects and software! Plus all the usual segments! Funny Side, News from the Geekery, Price Watch, Name that Synth …

Show contents:

About the Synth Geekery Show

Synth Geekery is a weekly podcast/live stream (YouTube) show about everything synthesizers, drum machines, samplers, sequencers, eurorack and music technology. We take the “one of the masses” viewpoint, where we are also users of gear just like you (read: we’re not influenced by commercial product placement).

The show relies on the generous contributions of the synth community. You can contribute in many ways including supporting us via our YouTube Channel Membership or Patreon. We also have regular and special video guests: if you would like to take part in future shows – please contact me via email on the about page here.

Your Host

Ranzee (Ranz Adamson) is your show host. He’s based in Perth, Western Australia and has been a hobbyist musician and technologist for most of his life. More information can be found about him here.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/ranzee

BandCamp: https://ranzee.bandcamp.com

Guests

This week’s video guests are:

Daren T. Housse

Bandcamp Link: https://darenthousse.bandcamp.com/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLPHxpZgFKKE1wkG9ndto3A

Daren resides in the UK and is one of the first video guests on the show since 2019. He has a large amount of tracks on his youtube channel plus a great album collection over on BandCamp.

SynthAddict

Andy is a musician and technologist from the bay area in California. He has an amazing collection of music tech gadgets and a large knowledge of synthesizers.

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUtABvP7q29uvLKi73zIjFQ

Ian J. Cole

Ian is a musician, composer, sound designer and producer currently producing solo ambient electronic music. He also runs Sinners Music which is a Record Company and Online Music Retailer in East Yorkshire, England

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/IanJCole

Chris – Maikshifter

Chris is a musician and technologist from Perth, Western Australia. He’s always had a love for creating and tinkering with music electronics and has recently embarked on a new journey creating eurorack modules.

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Maikshifter

Video replay

Funny Side

The funny side segment is a collection of memes that are somewhat relevant to the synth geekery community. Some of these images are taken from Facebook, Instagram and other social media sources. Please respect the creators. Hope you enjoy this week’s selection:

News

Orpho Parapulse

Whether you’re crafting icy percussion hits or building the atmospheric foundation for an experimental soundscape, the Orpho Parapulse is a high-performance noise generator designed for the modern Eurorack enthusiast. Moving beyond the static “set-and-forget” nature of basic noise sources, the Parapulse offers a dynamic, playable approach to texture.

The Art of Textured Sound

The Orpho Parapulse is a compact 6HP Eurorack module that serves as a versatile noise laboratory. At its core, it allows for a seamless transition between White Noise (bright, full-spectrum) and Pink Noise (softer, low-frequency weighted). Unlike many modules that provide these as separate outputs, the Parapulse features a “color” control that lets you find the perfect balance in between without any audible steps or clicks.

The real magic, however, lies in its integrated filter and frequency modulation (FM) capabilities. This turns a simple static source into a breathing, organic element. By modulating the frequency, you can create anything from robotic chirps and alien vocalizations to the rhythmic “woosh” of ocean waves.

Key Features

  • Dual-Spectrum Morphing: Seamlessly blend between clear white noise and deep pink noise.
  • Integrated Filter: Precisely shape the frequency content to carve out space in your mix or create dramatic sweeps.
  • Frequency Modulation (FM): Expand your sonic palette with dynamic modulations for complex, evolving textures.
  • Organic Soundscapes: Ideal for creating percussive foundations (snares, hi-hats) or atmospheric drones.
  • Compact Design: Fits into any setup with a slim 6HP width and a depth of only 15mm.
  • Low Power Consumption: Efficiently runs on +12V | 40mA.

Pricing & Availability

Orpho modules are often handcrafted or produced in small batches. While prices can fluctuate based on specific retailers or custom order requests directly from Germany, the current market positioning for the Parapulse is as follows:

CurrencyEstimated Price*
EURO (€)€110.00
USD ($)$120.00
GBP (£)£95.00
AUD ($)$185.00

*Prices are estimates based on current exchange rates and typical MSRP for Orpho’s 6HP module line. Shipping and taxes may apply depending on your region.

Product Summary Table

SpecificationDetails
Module TypeNoise Generator / Sound Designer
Width6 HP
Depth15 mm
Current Draw+12V: 40mA
Rausch-FarbenWhite to Pink (Seamless Morph)
ModulationIntegrated Filter & FM
Best ForExperimental Textures, Percussion, Sound FX

Footnotes & Links:

Exploring the Orpho Q DRM 4: A Quad-Voice Powerhouse for Eurorack

If you are looking to inject organic, analog percussion into your Eurorack setup without sacrificing precious rack space, the Orpho Q DRM 4 is a module that demands your attention. Hailing from Berlin’s boutique synth scene, Orpho has built a reputation for specialized drum modules, and the Q DRM 4 (Quad T-Drum) is their latest minimalist masterpiece.

Overview: What is the Q DRM 4?

The Orpho Q DRM 4 is an analog Eurorack module featuring four independent “T-Drum” voices. Each voice is built around a Twin-T resonator circuit—a classic architecture known for producing legendary “boing” sounds, deep kicks, and resonant woodblock-style percussion.

While many drum modules focus on complex menus or digital modeling, the Q DRM 4 keeps it strictly analog and tactile. It is designed for musicians who want immediate access to techno toms, electro-percussion, and percussive bass hits. Its compact size makes it a perfect “utility” drum source that can fill out a rhythm section or act as the primary percussive engine in a portable skiff.

Key Features

  • Four Independent Voices: Four distinct channels (CH1–CH4), each with its own trigger input and dedicated audio output.
  • Twin-T Resonator Architecture: Provides a classic analog response that reacts dynamically to trigger signals.
  • Color-Coded Frequency Control: Each channel is tuned to a specific range to cover a full percussive spectrum:
    • CH1 (Red): Deep drum sounds and foundation-shaking Bassdrums.
    • CH2 (Black): Mid-range Tom frequencies.
    • CH3 (Blue): High-mid tones like Bongos, Claves, and Congas.
    • CH4 (White): High-frequency Rim-shot character with frequency sweep.
  • Individual Outs: Perfect for external processing, allowing you to send your kick to a distortion unit while keeping your toms clean.
  • Compact Footprint: At only 8 HP, it packs four voices into a very small space.
  • Low Power Consumption: Efficient design that won’t strain your Eurorack power supply.

Technical Specifications

  • Width: 8 HP
  • Depth: 20 mm (Skiff friendly)
  • Power Draw: +12V [40 mA], -12V [50 mA], +5V [0 mA]
  • Trigger Threshold: Reliable triggering from >2.5V (Typical 5–10V)

Pricing & Availability

The Orpho Q DRM 4 is priced competitively for a boutique analog module. Please note that Orpho currently specifies sales are restricted to within the European Union.

CurrencyEstimated Price*
EUR (€)€99.00
USD ($)~$108.00
GBP (£)~£83.00
AUD ($)~$165.00

*Note: Non-EUR prices are estimates based on current exchange rates and do not include potential import duties or shipping.

Summary Table

FeatureDetails
Module TypeAnalog Quad Drum Module
SynthesisTwin-T Resonators
Voice Count4 (Independent)
Inputs4 x Trigger In
Outputs4 x Mono Audio Out
Controls4 x Tone Knobs (Frequency)
Best ForTechno, Electro, West-Coast Pings, Percussive FX

Footnotes & Resources

Dive Deep into Atmosphere: An Overview of the Intellijel Swells Reverb

The Eurorack landscape is no stranger to reverb, but Intellijel’s latest offering, Swells, aims to be more than just a “set-and-forget” end-of-chain effect. Unveiled as a companion to the popular Sealegs delay and Multigrain sampler, Swells is a multi-model stereo reverb designed for performers who want to “play” their reverb like an instrument.

The Sonic Architecture

At its core, Swells is a 96kHz, 24-bit powerhouse with 32-bit internal floating-point processing, ensuring high-fidelity tails even at extreme settings. It features nine distinct reverb models, ranging from “Fog” (the lush algorithm found in Sealegs) to the experimental “Ritual,” which offers harmonic, spiraling dissonance.

What sets Swells apart is its tactile interface. Eight dedicated faders provide immediate control over essential parameters like Size, Decay, Pre-Delay, and Damping. Each model also includes two unique macro controls—Ebb and Flow—which morph specific characteristics of the chosen algorithm, allowing for textures that evolve from realistic spaces into glitchy, non-linear voids.

Performance & Mangling

Intellijel has leaned heavily into “mangling” features. The module includes a Freeze button for infinite drones, a Reverse mode with sync options, and a Burst function for sudden surges of noise or feedback. For those seeking grit, a Lo-Fi switch provides two levels of digital degradation, while a saturating Drive circuit warms up the input signal before it even hits the reverb tank.

The namesake of the module is the Swell Generator, a built-in multi-mode envelope follower. It can track the input, output, or an external sidechain to create “ducking” effects or auto-modulate any of the fader parameters via internal normalization.

Key Features

  • 9 Reverb Models: Fog, Blur, Shadow, Velvet, Asterion, Deadspace, Buckets, Ritual, and Gaze.
  • Tactile Control: 8 high-quality faders for real-time parameter manipulation.
  • Swell Generator: Integrated envelope follower with Rise, Fall, and Threshold controls.
  • Performance FX: Dedicated Freeze, Reverse, and Burst controls with trigger inputs.
  • High-Fidelity Audio: 96kHz / 24-bit stereo I/O.
  • Lo-Fi Modes: Two selectable stages of bit-crushing and sample-rate reduction.
  • Extensive CV: 9 CV inputs with attenuverters for full modular integration.

Pricing & Availability

Intellijel Swells is currently rolling out to major retailers worldwide. Below is the estimated street price across various regions:

CurrencyEstimated Price
USD$499.00
EURO€499.00
GBP£439.00
AUD$799.00

Summary Table

SpecificationDetails
FormatEurorack Module
Width20 HP
Depth30 mm
Power Consumption117mA (+12V), 6mA (-12V)
Audio Resolution96kHz / 24-bit (32-bit internal)
I/OStereo Input & Output (DC Coupled)
Best ForAmbient Drones, Performance Mangling, High-End Studio Reverb

Footnotes & Sources:

Randomwaves Drumboy: The Portable, Open-Source Beatmaking Powerhouse

The landscape of portable music production has just received a shot of adrenaline with the release of the Randomwaves Drumboy. Originally making waves as a Kickstarter project, this sleek, open-source drum machine and groovebox is designed for producers who want high-fidelity sound, tactile control, and the freedom to hack their hardware.

Whether you are looking at the pocket-sized Drumboy Mini or the beefed-up Drumboy Pro, Randomwaves has bridged the gap between “gadget” and “professional instrument.”

Overview: What is the Drumboy?

At its core, the Drumboy is a sample-based groovebox driven by a powerful 550MHz ARM Cortex M7 processor. Unlike many budget drum machines that rely on 16-bit audio, the Drumboy boasts 24-bit True Audio architecture, ensuring that your kicks are punchy and your hats are crisp.

The device stands out with its vibrant 5-inch color LCD and its commitment to the maker community. Because the entire engine is open-source, users can dive into the code via the STM32 interface to create custom firmware, making it a “forever-evolving” instrument.

Key Features

  • High-Resolution Audio: 24-bit/48kHz audio engine for professional-grade sound quality.
  • Advanced Sequencing: Create complex rhythms with 1/64 quantization across up to 8 bars and 8 measures.
  • Pro Edition Tactile Controls: The Pro version replaces capacitive touch with silent tactile buttons and 8 assignable rotary knobs (supporting up to 80 parameter assignments).
  • Deep Sound Shaping: Includes a parametric EQ (low/high shelf and 4 peak filters), dual filter channels (LP, HP, BP, Notch), and a dedicated FX engine with 8 algorithms including Delay, Distortion, and Bitcrusher.
  • Expansion & Connectivity: SD card slot for loading your own samples, Sync-In/Out for daisy-chaining with other gear (like the Synthgirl), and MIDI support.
  • Portability: The Pro edition features an optional “ChargePad” providing up to 5 hours of battery life, making it truly mobile.

Pricing Overview

Randomwaves utilizes a tiered pricing model, often launching through Kickstarter with significant “Early Bird” discounts before hitting the full MSRP.

CurrencyEarly Bird (Approx.)MSRP (Retail)
USD$239 – $259$339 – $399
EUR€220 – €239€315 – €370
GBP£185 – £205£265 – £310
AUD$365 – $395$520 – $610

Note: Prices in EUR, GBP, and AUD are estimated based on current exchange rates and regional launch data.

Product Summary Table

FeatureSpecification
Processor550MHz ARM Cortex M7
Audio Quality24-bit True Audio
Display5.3-inch Color LCD (Pro) / 5-inch (Mini)
StorageSD Card (Samples, Projects, Firmware)
Layers10 Sample-based Layers
Effects8 Types (Chorus, Delay, Bitcrusher, etc.) + Reverb
Modulation10 Assignable LFOs
ConnectivityUSB-C, MIDI I/O, Sync I/O, 3.5mm Headphone/Line Out
Open SourceYes (Code and Hardware Files Available)

Footnotes & Links:

Modernizing the Legend: The Deft Audio USB CMI Lightpen Interface

For owners of the iconic Fairlight CMI Series I, II, and IIx, the original lightpen is both a badge of honor and a point of failure. These vintage optical pens are increasingly rare and prone to hardware fatigue. Enter Deft Audio, a boutique hardware creator dedicated to keeping vintage synths alive. Their USB CMI Lightpen interface is a specialized adapter that allows you to replace (or augment) the finicky original lightpen with a standard modern USB mouse.

Overview

The Deft Audio USB CMI Lightpen interface acts as a bridge between modern HID (Human Interface Device) technology and the proprietary video/timing hardware of the Fairlight CMI. Unlike the broader “USB2CMI” keyboard adapters, this specific device is hyper-focused on lightpen emulation. It intercepts the CMI’s video signal and injects the necessary timing pulses to make the mainframe “think” a lightpen is touching the screen, all while you simply move a mouse on your desk.

It is a “must-have” for Fairlight users who want to draw waveforms on Page 4 or Page 5 without the jitter and inaccuracy of 40-year-old optical sensors.

Key Features

  • Plug-and-Play Mouse Support: Use any standard class-compliant USB mouse (optical or laser) to control the CMI cursor.
  • Dual Operation Mode: Can be used in conjunction with an original lightpen. When the mouse is moved, the virtual cursor appears; when the physical lightpen touches the screen, the mouse cursor yields priority.
  • Video Pass-Through: Includes high-quality video buffering to ensure your CMI’s monochrome display remains sharp and artifact-free.
  • Compact Form Factor: Designed to sit discreetly between the VDU (monitor) and the CMI mainframe using standard 5-pin XLR connectors.
  • Visual Status LEDs: Integrated LEDs indicate video signal sync and USB device connectivity for easy troubleshooting.
  • No Software Required: The emulation happens at the hardware level, meaning no changes to the Fairlight’s OS or software are needed.

Pricing

The product is typically sold through the Deft Audio store and Reverb. Prices may fluctuate based on component availability and batch runs.

CurrencyEstimated Price*
USD$285.00
EURO€265.00
GBP£225.00
AUD$440.00

*Prices are estimates based on current exchange rates and typical retail listings; excluding shipping and import taxes.

Product Summary Table

SpecificationDetails
CompatibilityFairlight CMI Series I, II, IIx
InputUSB Type-A (for Mouse)
Video Connection5-pin XLR (In/Out)
Power SourceExternal 5V DC or internal (depending on version)
Emulation TypeOptical Lightpen Signal Generation
Build QualityAssembled PCB with robust enclosure

Footnotes & Links

Kaona’s Fractaos

The Sound of Infinite Geometry: Introducing Fractaos

While Kaona has long been known for the “brains” of the modular system (sequencers like Zazou), Fractaos is the “voice.” It is a stereo polyphonic oscillator that brings the brand’s signature fractal mathematics directly into the audio path. Instead of using math to decide which note to play, Fractaos uses it to decide how the wavefront itself is shaped.

Key Features of Fractaos

Fractaos is designed for musicians who want textures that feel biological and evolving rather than static and synthesized.

  • Fractal Synthesis Engine: Unlike standard oscillators that use geometric shapes (sine, saw, square), Fractaos uses fractal functions to generate harmonically rich and complex timbres.
  • True Polyphony: Rare in the Eurorack world, this module is designed as a polyphonic source, allowing for lush, multi-layered chords that share a cohesive mathematical DNA.
  • Native Stereo Path: The module generates a wide, immersive stereo image internally, making it an ideal centerpiece for ambient and cinematic patches.
  • Deep Modulation Matrix: Parameters allow you to “zoom” into the fractal equation in real-time, effectively scanning through infinite variations of a single sound.

In the world of modular synthesis, most musicians are used to linear sequencers and standard oscillators. However, Kaona—a French brand dedicated to “Lutherie Électronique”—is carving out a niche for those who prefer the unpredictable beauty of mathematics. By bridging the gap between complex fractal algorithms and musical performance, Kaona’s modules like the Zazou and Sisyphus offer a gateway into generative art that feels organic rather than robotic.

Estimated Pricing Guide

As a high-density polyphonic digital oscillator, Fractaos sits at the premium end of the Kaona catalog.

ProductEUR (€)USD ($)GBP (£)AUD ($)
Fractaos€480.00$510.00£405.00$785.00

Note: Pricing is based on current Kaona hardware tiers; check the official shop for the most recent stock updates.

Summary Table: Fractaos at a Glance

FeatureSpecification
Synthesis TypeFractal (Non-Linear Dynamics)
Voice CountPolyphonic
OutputDual-Channel Stereo
Control InterfaceHigh-resolution encoders with visual feedback
Best ForComplex drones, evolving pads, and mathematical sound design

Footnotes & Links:

Bastl Déjà vu

Bastl Déjà Vu: The 4HP “Swiss Army Knife” for Your Eurorack

In the world of Eurorack, space is the ultimate currency. Finding a module that can wear multiple hats without hogging your precious rail space is like finding gold. Enter the Bastl Déjà Vu, a compact 4HP utility powerhouse that proves big things really do come in small, fader-equipped packages.

Whether you need a simple attenuator, a performance-ready crossfader, or a low-noise preamp to bring external gear into your rack, the Déjà Vu is designed to be the versatile workhorse you’ll find yourself reaching for in every patch.

More Than Just a Fader

At its core, the Déjà Vu features two identical channels (A and B), each centered around a smooth, tactile fader. But don’t let the simple interface fool you. Behind those sliders lies a sophisticated signal path capable of handling both audio and CV with equal finesse.

The brilliance of the module lies in its flexibility. Each channel features a mode switch that toggles between Attenuator, Attenuverter, and Crossfader modes. Need to subtly scale a modulation source? Flip to attenuator. Want to invert an envelope? Switch to attenuverter. Looking to blend between two waveforms for a morphing lead? The crossfade mode has you covered.

A Master of Transformation

One of the standout features is the dedicated Fader Gain switch. This allows you to boost signals by 1x, 2x, or even 10x. This high-gain setting acts as a high-quality, low-noise pre-amp, making it remarkably easy to bring line-level signals (like your favorite drum machine or phone) up to beefy Eurorack levels.

Furthermore, the module is “smart” about its connectivity. If you leave the output of Channel A unplugged, it automatically mixes into Channel B. This internal normaling allows the Déjà Vu to function as a compact 4-channel mixer—perfect for summing sub-mixes or creating complex modulation chains.

Key Features

  • Dual-Channel Control: Two independent fader-based channels for audio or CV.
  • Three Mode Operation: Easily switch between Attenuator, Attenuverter, and Crossfader.
  • Powerful Boosting: Selectable gain (1x, 2x, 10x) for signal amplification and line-to-modular conversion.
  • Internal Mixing: Cascading outputs allow for 4-channel mixing (can be disabled via jumper).
  • Visual Feedback: Bi-color LED indicators (Green/Red) provide instant feedback on voltage polarity and signal levels.
  • Expandable: Chainable with other units via back jumpers for even larger mixing setups.
  • Perfect Companion: Specifically designed to complement the Bastl Neo Trinity but fits perfectly in any setup.

Pricing

The Bastl Déjà Vu is competitively priced for a multi-functional utility, offering immense value per HP.

CurrencyEstimated Price*
EUR€138.00 (ex. Tax)
USD~$163.00
GBP~£118.00
AUD~$250.00

*Prices are approximate based on current exchange rates and regional distributor listings. Tax/VAT may vary by location.

Product Summary Table

SpecificationDetails
ManufacturerBastl Instruments
Module TypeVoltage Processor / Utility / Mixer
Width4 HP
Depth30 mm
Current Draw+12V: 60mA / -12V: 60mA
Inputs2x Fader In, 2x Add In
Outputs2x DC Coupled Out
Gain Options1x, 2x, 10x (Configurable to 5x)
Best ForMixing, Attenuation, Level Boosting, Performance Control

Footnotes & Links:

Price Watch

Find below images and links to the items we showed for the price watch segment.

Nord Drum 2 Modulehttps://ebay.us/r3uTGu
Roland Juno 106https://ebay.us/OZkWoS
Roland System-8https://ebay.us/fMMVCB
Yamaha FX-1https://ebay.us/fMK3EC
Full Eurorack Systemhttps://ebay.us/6yZB3n
Yamaha DX-1https://ebay.us/cKDPM3

* As an eBay Partner Network Affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Name That Synth

No name that synth this week – send one in!

If you are after more information about Name that Synth – please check out this page here.

Saturday Sonority

This week’s Saturday Sonority we might talking about …..