Synth Geekery 309

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In episode 309 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

Axis Modular MiXFOUR

The MiXFOUR is a compact yet powerful four-channel performance Audio & CV mixer module, designed in a Eurorack format. At just 6 HP width and 45 mm deep, it’s a tidy addition to any modular setup. Each channel includes a mute switch, level trimmer, and provides both normal and inverted outputs, complete with bicolour LED indicators—ideal for live performance or precise CV mixing.

Features

  • 4 input channels with:
    • Mute switch per channel
    • Level (attenuation) trimmer per channel
    • Normal + inverted output per channel
    • Bicolour LED indicator for signal status
  • Compact form factor: 6 HP width, 45 mm depth
  • Low power consumption:
    • +12 V: 9 mA
    • –12 V: 9 mA
  • Use cases: Perfect for mixing audio or attenuating CV signals in live performance or studio sequencing setups

Price: £58.45

Link: https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/4343680312/mixfour-6hp-audiocv-mixer-fully

The NSA Selector by Wenzellabs

“The NSA Selector” is a Eurorack module crafted by Wenzellabs, sold via Lectronz. It cleverly transforms raw Ethernet signals into analog audio, allowing modular synth aficionados to “hear” network traffic. It’s not an audio interface—no MP3, WAV, or RTP—just unfiltered bits turned into sound.

Features

  • Ethernet-to-audio conversion: Two RJ-45 Ethernet jacks pass traffic unmodified, mirrored via MII bus, and output as analog sound.
  • Hardware architecture: Acts as a 100 Mbps fast Ethernet switch with three ports — two front (network) ports, and one internal 4-bit MII mirror port wired to a DAC and low-pass filter.
  • Form factor & power:
    • Width: 4 HP
    • Depth: 55 mm (not skiff-friendly)
    • Power consumption: +12 V: 100 mA, –12 V: 2 mA, +5 V: 0 mA
  • Creative use cases:
    • Ping sequencer: Simple shell script that pings of varying sizes to generate rhythmic network sounds.
    • Image-to-sound experiments: Transfer unencrypted BMP images over HTTP to “listen” to pixel data.
    • Audio file conversion: Converts 16-bit 48 kHz mono WAV into 4-bit 25 MS/s raw format via delta-sigma modulation; results are grainy but sonically rich.
    • Network overload effects: Echo and saturation through repeated packet dumping (e.g., using tcpdump) for chaotic textures.
  • Open-source support: Documentation, code, sequencer scripts, upconverter tools, and building instructions available via GitHub.

Price: AUD$98.37 (DIY Kit) or an extra $12 for it pre-assembled @ $110.

Link: https://lectronz.com/products/thensaselector Github: https://github.com/wenzellabs/the_NSA_selector

Home Bake Instruments FM MINT Mk2

The FM MINT Mk2 is a compact, business-card-sized FM synthesizer by Home Bake Instruments. It features 4-voice polyphony, a 64-step sequencer with 13 pattern slots, an 8-mode arpeggiator, and enhancements over the original including built-in LFO, echo, and chorus effects, plus refined sound quality and improved responsiveness.

Features

  • Ultra-compact, business card form factor
  • 4-voice polyphonic FM synthesis engine
  • 13 pattern memory (each up to 64 steps)
  • 8-algorithm arpeggiator for dynamic melodic motion
  • LFO, echo, and chorus effects onboard (Mk2 upgrade)
  • Improved sound quality and operational behavior over the original
  • AI-based phrase suggestion to inspire unexpected melodic ideas
  • USB-C power, stereo mini-jack audio output, and sync I/O for hardware integration
  • Firmware v1.1 available, includes ARP sync bug fix

Price: $99.99

Link: https://home-bake-instruments.localinfo.jp/posts/57118891

Niio modular Gated Random

The GATED RANDOM module from NINO (niioanalog.com) is a eurorack module that outputs a random control voltage (CV) level synchronized to gate inputs and features probabilistic routing of gate signals. It offers versatile control over CV level range and gate behavior, along with visual feedback via LEDs.

Features

  • Outputs a random CV level and processes gate probability with each gate input.
  • Adjustable CV output range: 0 to 10 V.
  • SHIFT control (or external CV/audio source) shifts the random level; can shift completely to 0 V, setting probability from 0 % to 100 %.
  • Gate input is routed to one of two gate outputs under probabilistic control; options include “follow gate length” or latch/unlatch behavior per gate.
  • SAMPLE input allows external level sampling to replace the internal noise circuit.
  • All-analog circuitry ensures a warm, classic feel 😛
  • LED displays for both output gates and output level at 0 V and 5 V.
  • Control over gate probability, base level voltage, and level range.
  • Physical specs: width 4 HP, depth 37 mm, current draw 33 mA @ +12 V and 19 mA @ –12 V.

Price: $230

Link: https://www.niioanalog.com/copy-of-ard

Behringer BM-11M

The Behringer BM-11M Low-Pass Filter is a compact analog filter pedal designed for sculpting dynamic tones with vintage-style character. It faithfully recreates the Moog MF-101 Moogerfooger low-pass filter from the 1990s, featuring both envelope and USB/MIDI control for expressive sound design.

Features

  • 2-pole (12 dB/oct) & 4-pole (24 dB/oct) low-pass filtering with adjustable resonance
  • Analog drive circuit on input for rich saturation and harmonic warmth
  • Envelope follower with a switch (Smooth / Fast), plus Amount and Mix knobs for dynamic filter modulation
  • USB-C and MIDI (5-pin DIN) connectivity for DAW or external gear control
  • Expression/CV inputs for real-time control over Cutoff, Mix, Resonance, and Amount
  • Envelope output for modulating external devices
  • Sturdy build with wooden side panels, ¼″ audio input/output, CV I/O, powered by 9 V battery or adapter
  • Compact, pedalboard-ready design ideal for guitar, synth, drum machines, or modular setups

Price: $99

Link: https://www.behringer.com/product.html?modelCode=0709-ALM

Deuxd

Deuxd (pronounced “DUDE!”) is a compact 12HP Eurorack module that pairs two fully featured voltage-controlled filters (VCFs) in one stereo-capable package. Far more than a standard stereo filter, Deuxd offers a creative architecture with internal routing, a large global cutoff knob for expressive control, internal cross-modulation, stereo effects, and flexible summing options.

Features

  • Dual OTA-style filters with selectable High-pass (HP) and Low-pass (LP) per channel, each with dedicated cutoff and resonance knobs
  • Global “Big” knob (backlit with red LED): primary cutoff control with outer cutoff knobs acting as relative offsets
  • Sync / Oppose switch:
    • Sync: both filters follow the big knob and FM signals in parallel
    • Oppose: right channel cutoff moves inversely to left
  • Stack, split, sum routing options
    • Sum output provides mono combining of both filters, with a “Dirty/Filthy” switch to engage one of two diode-clipping saturation flavors
  • Internal normalled connections:
    • Audio input of filter 1 is normalled to filter 2 input (mono-to-stereo routing)
    • Audio input of side 2 is normalled to FM input of side 1 (audio-rate FM unless overwritten)
  • Band-pass mode capability: patch output of one filter into the input of the other when one is HP and the other LP for variable-width bandpass effects
  • X-mod knob: hard-wired cross-mod that routes output of each filter into the cutoff control of the opposite filter, enabling intense stereo modulation textures
  • Compact form factor: only 12HP in Euro-rack format
  • Unique creative patching: encourages stereo audio-rate modulation, pinging, twin-peak resonances, and distortion textures

Price: $289

Link: https://mehrmusicmachines.com/ Modular Grid: https://modulargrid.net/e/mehr-music-machines-deuxd

Tenderfoot Electronics – new modules

ModuleCore FunctionStandout Features
MORSECW sender/receiver + networked sequencerPaddle & straightKey, Wi-Fi WebChat, live decode, spectrum analysis
KOMBIN-88-channel mixer with send/return busesSkiff-friendly, pre/post-fader selection, chainable modules
TETRADFour-oscillator harmonic voice engineMorphable waves, harmonic/subharmonic modes, chord banks, mono output
ChronicleCV & Gate sequencer with deep performance features8×8 grid, probability, ratchets, swing, microtonal root shift, SD storage, sync

A more detailed description of the modules are as follows:

Morse

MORSE – CW Sender, Receiver & Networked Instrument

  • Encodes and decodes Morse (CW) code as a sound source and rhythmic gate generator.
  • Functions as a training tool and a collaborative instrument, leveraging a built-in Wi-Fi WebChat for global communication.
  • Includes both paddle and straight key controls.
  • Offers live decoding of Morse code and integrated spectrum analysis for real-time audio feedback.

Price: $349

Link: https://tenderfootelectronics.com/products/morse modulargrid: https://modulargrid.net/e/tenderfoot-electronics-morse

Kombin-8

KOMBIN-8 – 8-Channel Dual-Bus Mixer

  • A skiff-friendly eight-channel mono audio mixer.
  • Features two independent send/return buses for flexible routing.
  • Rear jumpers enable pre- or post-fader send selection.
  • Modules can be chained together for scalable routing configurations.

Price: $299

Link: https://tenderfootelectronics.com/products/kombin-8 modulargrid: https://modulargrid.net/e/tenderfoot-electronics-kombin-8


Tetrad

TETRAD – Four-Oscillator Harmonic Digital Voice

  • Combines four oscillators with morphable waveshapes focused on harmonic relationships.
  • Supports harmonic/subharmonic modes and includes user-editable chord banks.
  • All four oscillator outputs are mixed into a cohesive single mono output, simplifying patching.

Price: $349

Link: https://tenderfootelectronics.com/products/tetrad modulargrid: https://modulargrid.net/e/tenderfoot-electronics-tetrad


Chronicle

Chronicle – 8-Channel CV & Gate Sequencer

  • A hands-on sequencer featuring an 8×8 grid to handle up to eight channels of CV and Gate.
  • Includes advanced performance features:
    • Probability per step
    • Ratchets
    • Swing
    • Microtonal root shifting
    • Real-time keyboard mode
  • Equipped with SD-card storage capable of holding 512 patterns, plus song chaining.
  • Expandable sync capabilities allow chaining multiple modules for larger performances.

These modules showcase Tenderfoot Electronics’ commitment to intuitive design, creative flexibility, and performance-ready versatility, with minimal menu diving but maximum musical potential

Price: $599

Link: https://tenderfootelectronics.com/products/chronicle modulargrid: https://modulargrid.net/e/tenderfoot-electronics-chronicle

ALM Stem Ripper

The Stem Ripper is a compact, Eurorack-format, 8-channel audio recorder tailored for immediate full-patch capture—no external recording gear needed. It writes each input directly to a micro-SD card as separate tracks, packaged in a multichannel, date-stamped WAV file. There’s even a configurable stereo mix within that file. Recording time is only limited by your SD card capacity, and a 64 GB card is included. It boasts remarkable 20 Vpp headroom, LED clip indicators, optional “Thru” expander, skiff-friendly build, and a 2-year warranty. All encased in UK-made quality.

Features

  • Simple, rapid full-patch audio recording
  • 8 independent 16-bit, 44.1 kHz audio tracks
  • Records directly to micro-SD card; recording duration limited only by SD size
  • Outputs a multichannel WAV file—drag and drop friendly
  • Includes two additional fixed stereo mix-down tracks (levels configurable)
  • Automatic date-stamping with battery-backed clock
  • 20 Vpp per-input headroom; LEDs for clip and recording status
  • Optional 2HP “Thru” expander duplicates inputs for signal pass-through
  • Supports SD cards up to 1 TB
  • Skiff friendly with reverse-power protection
  • 2 Year Warranty
  • Made in England

Technical Specifications

  • Supply: +12 V @ 150 mA / –12 V @ 20 mA
  • Size: 6HP
  • Depth: 32 mm
  • Headroom: Approx. 20 Vpp per channel
  • Noise floor: –80 dB (approx.)

Price: The ALM website does not list pricing. To get current pricing in AUD, USD, EUR, and GBP, you will need to contact ALM stockists or retailers directly since there’s no public listing available.

Link: http://busycircuits.com/alm050/

Price Watch

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

Univox SR-95https://ebay.us/PiRVUW
Rhythm Jax 230https://ebay.us/1lDIHj
Yamaha RX7https://ebay.us/cJC9A8
Yamaha CS1Xhttps://ebay.us/rrmog0

Name That Synth

Name that synth this week was brought to you by ______ – here’s the video:

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 …..