Synth Geekery 360
In episode 360 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
- Guests
- Video replay
- Funny Side
- News from The Geekery
- Price Watch
- Name that Synth
- Saturday Sonority
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
Behringer Jam & Jam Play
Compact 32-Key MIDI & CV Sequencer Keyboards
Behringer has expanded its lineup of compact control hardware with two new offerings: the Behringer Jam and the Behringer Jam Play. Designed as compact, feature-packed keyboard controllers and sequencers, both units offer creative routing and sequencing capabilities tailored for software DAWs, standalone hardware synths, and modular Eurorack rigs.
While the standard Jam serves as a dedicated USB/MIDI/CV controller, the Jam Play upgrades the formula by introducing an internal sound engine packed with 128 built-in instrument and drum sounds. This transforms the controller into a portable, standalone performance and songwriting instrument.
Key Features
Behringer Jam
- 32-Key Expression Keyboard: Features 32 compact, velocity-sensitive keys with aftertouch for expressive playback.
- 64-Step Polyphonic Sequencer: Supports up to 8-note polyphony per step along with rests, ties, legato, ratcheting, and random gate functionality.
- Arpeggiator & Chord Modes: Includes an 8-mode onboard arpeggiator and a Chord Play mode supporting chord harmonies up to 16 notes.
- Hardware Controls: 4 multi-purpose rotary encoders for real-time parameter tweaking and modulation.
- Flexible Connectivity: Equipped with USB (class-compliant), standard MIDI Out, Pitch/Gate/Mod CV outputs, and a 1/4-inch sustain pedal input.
- Power Options: Powered via USB bus power or an optional external DC adapter.
Behringer Jam Play
- Internal Sound Engine: Loaded with 128 built-in instrument patches and drum sounds, enabling dawless sound generation on the go.
- All Jam Sequencer Capabilities: Retains the complete 64-step polyphonic sequencer, arpeggiator, and chord play features of the baseline model.
- Standalone Playability: Plug in headphones or connect directly to a speaker system to practice, compose, or perform without needing a laptop or external synth.
- Full CV/MIDI Integration: Transmits sequence data simultaneously via USB, MIDI, and CV outputs while generating internal sounds.
Pricing & Regional Availability
Approximate retail pricing across major regional markets:
| Region / Currency | Behringer Jam | Behringer Jam Play |
| USD ($) | ~$99.00 | ~$189.00 |
| EURO (€) | ~98.00 € | ~179.00 € |
| UK (£) | ~£79.00 | ~£149.00 |
| AUD ($) | ~A$179.00 | ~A$319.00 |
Specifications & Feature Comparison
| Feature | Behringer Jam | Behringer Jam Play |
| Keys | 32 Compact Keys (Velocity & Aftertouch) | 32 Compact Keys (Velocity & Aftertouch) |
| Sequencer | 64-Step Polyphonic (8-note polyphony per step) | 64-Step Polyphonic (8-note polyphony per step) |
| Arpeggiator | 8 Modes | 8 Modes |
| Chord Mode | Up to 16-note chords | Up to 16-note chords |
| Built-in Sounds | None (Controller only) | 128 Instrument & Drum Sounds |
| Encoders | 4 Multi-Purpose Rotary Controls | 4 Multi-Purpose Rotary Controls |
| CV Outputs | Pitch, Gate, Modulation | Pitch, Gate, Modulation |
| MIDI & USB | USB Class-Compliant, MIDI Out | USB Class-Compliant, MIDI Out |
| Pedal Input | 1/4″ Sustain Pedal | 1/4″ Sustain Pedal |
| Primary Target | DAW & Hardware Sequencing | Standalone Performance & Mobile Composition |
Video
Price:
Link:
Stylophone Mini
Stylophone Mini: The Iconic Pocket Synth Shrinks to Keyring Size
Dubreq has officially released the Stylophone Mini Collection, bringing the unmistakable retro charm of the legendary 1968 stylus synthesizer into an ultra-portable keychain format. Designed for quick, immediate musical creativity on the go, the Stylophone Mini strips back digital setup menus and software hurdles in favor of tactile, analog-style playability that fits in the palm of your hand.
Packaged in a retro cassette-style case, the collection comes in three distinct colorways:
- Original (Black): The classic, iconic look styled after the original S-1 synthesizer.
- White: A sleek design inspired by classic space-age aesthetics.
- Pink: A bold, vibrant finish designed to stand out.
Overview & Key Highlights
Despite its miniature dimensions, the Stylophone Mini keeps the core identity of the classic instrument intact. Playing music relies on the signature stylus-to-metal contact strip mechanism, providing instant acoustic feedback with zero digital latency.
Beyond its musical capabilities, Dubreq has engineered the Mini for everyday pocket carry. It features an attached chain loop for keys or bags, a built-in LED flashlight for convenience, and runs as an all-in-one standalone device with an integrated speaker.
Main Features
- Printed Metal Keyboard: Covers 1 and 3/4 octaves on a touch-sensitive metallic contact surface.
- Tethered Stylus: Stored securely with the unit for precision note triggering and slide techniques.
- Onboard Vibrato Effect: Dedicated switch toggle to add classic pitch modulation and expressive warmth.
- Integrated Speaker: Allows for immediate play without external amplifiers or cables.
- Built-in LED Flashlight: Multifunctional utility feature for low-light environments.
- Keyring Attachment: Heavy-duty chain loop to hook onto keys, lanyards, or backpacks.
- Cassette Packaging: Comes in a stylized collectible display case.
Global Pricing Breakdown
The Stylophone Mini Collection is positioned as an accessible pocket instrument, gift, and music gadget across major global markets.
- United Kingdom: £19.95 GBP
- United States: $19.95 USD / $29.95 USD (retailer variance based on local distribution)
- Europe: €24.95 EUR
- Australia: ~$39.95 AUD (approx. $209.99 AUD for bulk 10-pack displays)
Specifications & Summary
| Feature | Specification |
| Product Name | Stylophone Mini Collection |
| Manufacturer | Dubreq |
| Keyboard Range | 1 and 3/4 Octaves (Metal Touch Surface) |
| Playing Interface | Integrated Stylus |
| Color Variants | Original Black, White, Pink |
| Audio Output | Built-in Internal Speaker |
| Effects | Pitch Vibrato Switch |
| Extra Utilities | Integrated LED Flashlight, Keychain Loop |
| Packaging | Cassette-Style Display Box |
| UK Price | £19.95 |
| US Price | $19.95 – $29.95 |
| EUR Price | €24.95 |
| AUD Price | ~$39.95 |
Video
Price:
Link:
Hampshire Electronics Unleashes Apollo and Janus: Next-Generation Digital Polyphony for Eurorack
UK-based synth manufacturer Hampshire Electronics has expanded its Eurorack lineup with two powerful digital synthesizer modules: the Apollo Polyphonic Synthesiser and the Janus Dual-Engine Synthesiser Voice.
Derived from the digital architecture of the flagship Vulcan Mk2 hybrid synth, both Apollo and Janus pack immense sonic versatility into compact Eurorack footprints. Offering dual-layer synthesis, twelve distinct sound engines, built-in stereo effects, and versatile performance features, these modules bring expansive multi-engine polyphony directly to modular setups.
Overview: Two Approaches to Dual-Engine Synthesis
While Apollo and Janus share a core sound engine, they cater to different workflow and sequencing needs in a modular rig.
Apollo Polyphonic Synthesiser
Apollo is a full-featured, 8-voice polyphonic synthesizer module equipped with dedicated MIDI control. Designed as a complete polyphonic sound source, it features two independent sound engines running simultaneously, allowing for rich layered patches, split voices, or cross-modulated sound design. With full 8-voice polyphony, dynamic voice allocation, and multi-mode filtering per engine, Apollo transforms a standard Eurorack setup into a deep digital poly-synth workstation.
Janus Dual-Engine Synthesiser Voice
Janus delivers the same dual-engine architecture in a CV-focused package designed for single-pitch CV/Gate setups. Rather than requiring multi-channel MIDI or complex CV routing, Janus utilizes its 8-voice allocation to generate lush chords, harmonies, strumming patterns, and arpeggios from a single monophonic pitch and gate input. It serves as an all-in-one synth voice for modular artists seeking dense polyphonic textures without expanding their sequencing hardware.
Key Features & Sound Engines
Twelve Diverse Sound Engines
Both modules come equipped with 12 versatile digital synthesis models per engine:
- V-Analogue: Dual oscillators with sync, sub-oscillators, and unison modes.
- FM: 6-operator DX-style Frequency Modulation with built-in preset banks.
- Modal: Physical modeling for struck, plucked, and bowed resonant bodies.
- String: Karplus-Strong string physical modeling for plucks, blows, and bows.
- Wavetable: Morphing wavetable synthesis driven by an internal position LFO.
- Phase Distortion: CZ-style phase distortion for classic 80s digital tones.
- Additive: Partial manipulation with odd/even balance, harmonic tilt, and comb filtering.
- Formant: Vowel and vocal formants for robotic and expressive human voice textures.
- Drums: Nine tuned digital drum voices.
- Tonewheel: 9-drawbar organ model with adjustable percussion response.
- Waves: Pure classic analog waveforms (Saw, Square, Triangle, Sine) done precisely.
- Noise: Variable white and pink noise routed through engine filters.
Sound Shaping & Modulation
- Cross-Engine Modulation: Engine 1 can cross-modulate Engine 2 via Frequency Modulation (FM) or Amplitude Modulation (AM).
- Per-Engine Filtering: Multimode digital VCF (Low-Pass, High-Pass, Band-Pass, Notch) with drive controls and dedicated VCF envelopes.
- Extensive Modulation Routing: Built-in LFOs, Sample & Hold, randomizers, probabilistic gates, and a 16-slot modulation matrix.
- Stereo Digital Effects: Onboard stereo FX processor featuring Delay, Reverb, Chorus, Phaser, Bit-Crusher, Glitch, and Age/Lo-Fi degradation modes.
- Presets & Storage: Preset management supporting program changes via MIDI for rapid patch recall.
Feature Highlights
Apollo
- 8-Voice Polyphony: Full dynamic polyphonic voice allocation via MIDI or internal modes.
- Dual-Layer Architecture: Stack two distinct 12-model engines per voice.
- Integrated MIDI Support: Direct 3.5mm TRS MIDI input for performance controllers or hardware sequencers.
- Polyphonic Arpeggiator: Includes harmony, strum, and pattern generation modes.
Janus
- Single CV/Gate Polyphony: Generates 8-voice chords, triads, and intervals from one pitch CV source.
- Built-in Chords & Arpeggiator: Custom chord memory, voice spread, strumming, and auto-arpeggiator.
- Compact Synth Voice: Ideal for modular systems focused on fast, immediate patch creation without complex MIDI routing.
Summary Comparison
| Feature | Apollo | Janus |
| Primary Focus | Full Polyphonic Modular Synth | Single-CV Dual Engine Synth Voice |
| Polyphony | 8 Voices (Polyphonic Allocation) | 8 Voices (Chord / Arp / Unison) |
| Sound Engines | 2 Layers (12 Synth Models Each) | 2 Layers (12 Synth Models Each) |
| Synthesis Types | FM, Wavetable, Modal, String, Additive, V-Analogue, Formant, etc. | FM, Wavetable, Modal, String, Additive, V-Analogue, Formant, etc. |
| Pitch Input | MIDI (TRS 3.5mm) / CV | 1x Pitch CV + Gate Input |
| Effects | Onboard Stereo Effects (Reverb, Delay, Chorus, Bitcrush, Phaser) | Onboard Stereo Effects (Reverb, Delay, Chorus, Bitcrush, Phaser) |
| Performance Modes | Multi-Layer, Split, Poly Arpeggiator, Strum | Chord Engine, Auto-Harmonizer, Arpeggiator, Strum |
| Modulation | 16-Slot Matrix, LFOs, Envelopes, S&H | 16-Slot Matrix, LFOs, Envelopes, S&H |
Pricing & Availability
The Apollo and Janus modules are available for order directly from Hampshire Electronics.
Apollo Polyphonic Synthesiser
- GBP (£): £329.00
- USD ($): ~$430.00 (approx. exchange rate conversion)
- EUR (€): ~$395.00 (approx. exchange rate conversion)
- AUD ($): ~$640.00 (approx. exchange rate conversion)
Janus Dual-Engine Synthesiser Voice
- GBP (£): £219.00
- USD ($): ~$286.00 (approx. exchange rate conversion)
- EUR (€): ~$263.00 (approx. exchange rate conversion)
- AUD ($): ~$426.00 (approx. exchange rate conversion)
Olydian Musical Instruments VC-01 Voicecrafter
Price Watch
Find below images and links to the items we showed for the price watch segment.
* 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 …..
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