Synth Geekery 290

Posted on April 5, 2025April 6, 2025 by admin

In episode 290 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 2-XM

The Behringer 2-XM is a duophonic analog synthesizer that faithfully recreates the iconic 1970s Oberheim Two Voice design. Featuring authentic analog circuitry, it delivers the classic sound of the original while integrating seamlessly into modern Eurorack setups.

Feature List

Comprehensive Connectivity: Equipped with a 32-point patchbay, MIDI input, MIDI thru, USB port, and stereo outputs for flexible integration.

Analog Design: Faithful re-creation of an iconic 1970s synth with authentic analog circuitry.

Dual Synthesizer Modules: Provides two independent synthesizer modules, each with:

Two voltage-controlled oscillators (VCOs)
One multi-mode voltage-controlled filter (VCF)
Two envelope generators
One low-frequency oscillator (LFO)

Oscillator Sync: Allows synchronization of oscillators for complex harmonic generation.

Modulation Capabilities: Features multiple modulation sources for versatile sound design.

External Audio Inputs: Includes two audio inputs for processing external sounds.

Portamento Function: Enables smooth pitch transitions between notes.

Mixer Section: Two-channel mixer with individual level and pan controls for precise sound shaping.

Poly Chain Capability: Supports chaining up to 16 units for a total of 32-voice polyphony.

Eurorack Compatibility: Designed to fit an 80 HP Eurorack space, integrating seamlessly into modular setups.

We’ve been showing the progress of the 2-XM since 2022: First showed on Synth Geekery episode 153. Then showed again on episode 208. Now it is finally shipping!

Price: $279

Link: https://www.behringer.com/product.html?modelCode=0718-ABA

EMW – 3 New Modules

Electronic Music Works (EMW), a synthesizer company from Brazil, have release 3 new interesting modules for eurorack. These are not only interesting in their design, but also very affordable.

In February, they teased new modules in development on their Facebook page:

EMW Wave-6 Polyphonic Oscillator

The WAVE-6 is a 6-note polyphonic oscillator (plays 6 notes simultaneously), MIDI-controlled, and features 128 wavetables stored in its internal memory.

An integrated ADSR/VCA allows control over the Attack, Decay, Sustain, and Release parameters of the generated sound.

It also includes a CV input for controlling wave morphing and another CV input for a modulation effect called WAVE CUT, similar to PWM.

The WAVE-6 responds to the Pitch-bender and Modulation Wheel of a MIDI controller. You can adjust the Pitch-bender range, and it also features an internal LFO with adjustable frequency, triggered by the Modulation Wheel.

Price: $198

Link: https://www.electronicmusicworks.com/eurorack/wave-6-poliphonic-osc.html

EMW Mini 3 – Analog Character Oscillator Bank

MINI-3 OSCILLATOR BANK: Classic Analog Character with Modern Control
The MINI-3 OSCILLATOR BANK is a compact Eurorack module inspired by the legendary Minimoog’s triple-oscillator design, delivering rich, powerful tones with modern digital control.

Three Independent Oscillators – Adjust waveform, octave, fine-tuning, and volume separately for deep sound shaping.
Six Waveforms – Triangle, MiniWave, Ramp, Square, Pulse 1, and Pulse 2, including EMW’s unique analog-style variations.
OLED Display & Intuitive Interface – Quick parameter adjustments with a single encoder/button setup.
Built-in Glide & LFO – Smooth pitch transitions and dynamic modulation for expressive performance.
Full MIDI Control – Play via MIDI, adjust pitch bend, mod wheel, and choose your MIDI channel.
Internal Memory – Save oscillator settings, MIDI configurations, and global parameters for instant recall.

Blending vintage warmth with digital precision, the MINI-3 is perfect for classic synth tones, aggressive leads, and experimental textures in a streamlined format.

Price: $158

Link: https://www.electronicmusicworks.com/eurorack/mini-3-oscillator-bank.html

EMW Noise Bank

Noise Generator with 142 Types of Internal Noise

The NOISE BANK is a noise generator with 142 types of internal noise, divided into seven categories: BASIC, FILTERED, VOWELS, PROCESS, PHASED, CYCLED, and DECAY.

It features a Trigger input that allows synchronized triggering of cyclic or decay (DECAY) effects.

Additionally, it has a modulation input for controlling the frequency of the generated noise, along with a frequency control potentiometer on the panel.

Price: $158

Link: https://www.electronicmusicworks.com/eurorack/noise-bank.html

Adam Synths Warthog

The Warthog by Adam Synths is an innovative Eurorack-compatible analog modular synthesizer that introduces groundbreaking features such as total recall and seamless DAW integration. This system allows users to save and recall all potentiometer positions, switch settings, and patch cable configurations, revolutionizing the modular synthesis experience.

Feature List

Preset Sharing: Save and share patches with other users, fostering collaboration and expanding creative possibilities.
Total Recall: Save and recall all knob positions, switch settings, and patch cable configurations, enabling effortless recreation of complex patches.
Snapshot Functionality: Create and store ‘snapshots’ of different sound settings, allowing for instant changes and smooth morphing between sounds.
DAW Integration: Integrate directly with your Digital Audio Workstation, with real-time MIDI control over all parameters for enhanced workflow.

Included Modules

Oscillator – Central tuning with waveshaping, waveforms, sync, sub oscillator, PWM, FM and more.
Multimode VCF & VCA – central cutoff frequence with LP (4 Pole), LP (2 Pole), BP and HP modes. Q-Comp, resonance, drive and more.
Matrix 428 – control module with multiple ins and outs for routing and connectivity.
Modulation Tools – Syncable LFO with variable waveforms shapes, rate, glide and math controls, sample & hold, portamento, noise and more.
Dual VC ENV – full ADSR x 2 controls with trigger and voltage controls.
Buffered Mults – 16 (2 x banks of 8) multiples for routing and duplication of CV/Audio.
2 Channel Mixer with Aux 1 & 2 sends and returns.
Mod Wheels – unique wooden mod wheels that can be routed to multiple locations for realtime control and recording modulation.

The Central Unit

At the core is the Central Unit. This module supervises interface tasks and allows for control over the other modules. At a glance, it looks like this unit has digital and control voltage connectivity which you can then patch into your system and furthermore it can be controlled via your DAW. This allows for patch and data recall both on the module and via your computer and MIDI. There is a large OLED display with controls on the top and bottom that seem to correspond to menu items and functions. Towards the bottom is a data entry encoder with parameter and value buttons.

Future Expansion & Connectivity

The rear of the custom designed chassis has 25 pin expansion ports, ethernet, MIDI DIN In & Out, USB (Type-B), 2 Auxillary send and returns, headphones, and L + R outputs.

They mention there will be future integration with other modules and systems.

Price: TBA (see it at Superbooth 2025)

Link: https://www.adamsynths.com/

Clank Uranograph

The Clank Uranograph is an innovative, highly expressive microtonal additive synthesizer and looper designed for both live performance and studio work. Developed over four years of research, it offers a unique synthesis engine, integrated effects, and a user-friendly interface.

Feature List

Five-Voice Synthesis Core: Enables complex sound design with rich harmonic content.
Integrated Effects Processor: Allows for internal sound processing and manipulation.
Tape Looper: Facilitates spontaneous experimentation and deep musical expression.
Save & Recall System: Store and instantly retrieve knob and fader positions, keyboard layouts, and parameter assignments.
External Integration: High-quality balanced preamp with XLR input for processing external audio through the synthesizer’s effects and looper.
Metronome for Live Performance: Built-in metronome routed exclusively to the headphone output for discreet tempo guidance.

Price: €1,552 (first batch)

Link: https://www.clank.eu/uranograph

Beetlecrab Audio Tempera Mini

The Beetlecrab Audio Tempera MINI is an upcoming compact version of the original Tempera granular synthesizer. It distills the expressive polyphonic synthesis capabilities of its predecessor into a highly portable form factor, featuring a 1×1 touch-sensitive grid for streamlined interaction. Designed for on-the-go soundscape creation, the Tempera MINI focuses on delivering immersive sonic experiences through a minimalist interface.

Feature List:

Designed for immersive soundscape creation
1×1 touch-sensitive grid for direct and deliberate interaction
Single-grain engine optimized for focused granular synthesis
Compact design for enhanced portability

Price: TBA (see it at Superbooth 2025)

Link: https://beetlecrab.audio/tempera-mini/

Price Watch

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

Technics SM-AC80	https://ebay.us/1DOfJv
Roland Juno 60	https://tidd.ly/4lxbV6y
Korg MS-20 (Vintage)	https://tidd.ly/4jcJEQG
Bohm Drumcomputer	https://tidd.ly/4culajF
Farfisa Superpartner Bravissimo Drum Computer	https://tidd.ly/42k99su