Synth Geekery 306
In episode 306 we talked about MIDI inventors. We also discussed 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
ADDAC Systems ADDAC300 Servo Controller
“At ADDAC we always admired the geniality of Neil Young’s Whizzer, way ahead of it’s time, a great example how great ingenuity and engineering can come together to make something great.”
✅ Inspired by it’s motor controlled method we created a 4HP solution to control any knob that doesn’t have a CV input, while also possible to use for other gear as well (within certain distance constraints).
We use a Servo motor which is a specific type of motor that can be digitally controlled to go to a precise angle. This motor is controlled by a microcontroller that also receives an incoming CV voltage from 0 to +5v and lineary converts this voltage range to the 270 degree Servo motor range.
Using a spring wire and metal couplers the motor shaft is then attached to the target knob to be controlled which will turn as the Servo turns.
Two other knobs [MAXIMUM ANGLE] & [MINIMUM ANGLE] further allow to control the “sweet spot” of the target knob, setting a smaller Servo range.
Raising the [MIN ANGLE] knob above the [MAX ANGLE] knob inverts the Servo range.
📋 Feature Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| HP / Depth | 4 HP / 45 mm |
| Power draw | Up to ~300 mA @ +12 V |
| CV input range | 0–5 V linear to servo sweep |
| Servo range | 270°, with angle constraints |
| Manual control | Attenuator knob (manual or CV-attenuate) |
| ON/OFF capability | Yes |
| Mechanical interface | Spring-wire + couplers (25 cm default) |
| Response speed | ≈500 ms full sweep (~0.5 Hz tracking) |
| Compatibility | 6 mm potentiometers (standard or trimmers) |
| Not for use with | Rotary switches or non-pot shaft devices |
| Durability advice | Proper coupling essential; replacement servos available |
🧾 Bottom Line
The ADDAC320 Servo Control brings physical motorized knob control to knobs without CV inputs, enabling expressive and experimental modulation of gear like external pedals, synth pots, or knobs on Eurorack modules. Released around April 2025, it is priced at €120 through ADDAC’s shop (plus VAT as applicable), with typical USD resale pricing of around $150–160. The user guide notes a ~15‑business‑day lead time even for “in‑stock” orders, as modules are built on demand.
Price: $120
Link: https://www.addacsystem.com/en/products/modules/addac300-series/addac320
Error Instruments Quantum Cloud
Quantum Cloud (also referred to as Quantum Clouds QMG3, “Quantum Cloud”) is a handcrafted, visually striking hybrid between a modular synthesizer and sound art installation. It was unveiled around July 17, 2025, when Error Instruments shared the concept publicly. It’s described as experimental, interactive, and limited‑edition.
🎛️ Key Features
Based on manufacturer descriptions and retail listings, here’s what Quantum Cloud offers:
- 4 light‑controlled oscillators that respond to ambient light and to each other, creating evolving sonic interactions.
- Echo / delay effect built in for depth and movement within patches.
- Patchable modular structure, enabling users to rewire and experiment in real time.
- Hand‑painted, unique physical design: each device is a bespoke piece of visual art with no two units identical.
- Inspirational aesthetic: modeled after breadboard prototyping and early electronic circuits—appealing to both musicians and visual artists.
- Target audience: artists, experimental musicians, sound designers seeking immersive, sculptural instrumentation.
📋 Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Release date | Announced mid‑July 17, 2025 quantumzeitgeist.com |
| Module name | Quantum Clouds QMG3 (aka Quantum Cloud) |
| Oscillators | 4 light‑controlled, interactive |
| Effects | Built‑in echo/delay |
| Patch system | Custom modular patch wiring; experimental routing |
| Design | Hand‑painted, unique art pieces |
| Concept | Inspired by breadboard prototyping aesthetics, visual-interactive tool |
| Target users | Experimental musicians, artists, sound installation creators |
| Price (pre‑assembled) | Approximately €458 (≈ AU A 760 / US $480 / £390) |
| Price (DIY kit) | Under €200 (≈ AU A 330 / US $210 / £175) |
💵 Pricing (approximate)
Pricing information is limited but two references provide context:
- A retail listing quotes a price of €458.43 (plus roughly €43.62 shipping) on Reverb for a brand‑new Quantum Clouds QMG3 unit.
- The manufacturer also mentioned that a DIY kit version would be developed, expected to retail for under €200 (€‑level only).
Using current mid‑2025 conversion rates (approximate):
- €458 ≈ AU A ~760 (AUD), US $480 USD, £390 GBP.
- If kit version: €200 ≈ AU A ~330, US $210, £175.
⚠️ These are estimates based on retail listing data and typical currency values. Actual costs may vary by region or include customs/tax charges.
✅ Notes & Next Steps
- Limited availability: units are individually hand‑crafted. If you’re interested, it’s recommended to reach out early as remaining units may be few.
- Workshops & DIY: Error Instruments mentioned DIY kit versions and workshops available for building at home.
- Site closure dates: they’ve announced a summer break for the shop between July 28 – August 25 2025, so purchasing or shipping may resume afterward.
Behringer Ring Modulator BM-12
The Behringer BM‑12 is a forthcoming analog ring modulator pedal designed to replicate the iconic Moog Mooger‑Fooger MF‑102 from 1998. It features dual‑waveform LFO, voltage‑controlled carrier oscillator, and full analog ring modulation circuitry. Behringer first released prototype imagery in early 2023, showcasing a nearly identical layout and wooden side panels, though the company had not yet confirmed pricing or a release date at that time .
As of mid‑2025, news sources indicate the BM‑12 was finally available for pre‑order as of July 24, 2025, suggesting availability to commence in the coming weeks or months .
Feature List
- 100% analog ring modulation circuit
- Voltage‑controlled carrier oscillator for internal modulation
- Dual‑waveform LFO (sine & square), with Rate and Amount controls
- Drive control to add gain and grit
- Mix or modulation balance control
- Mono audio input/output
- CV / expression pedal jacks for Rate, Amount, Mix, and Frequency modulation control
Editor’s Notes
- Devoted as a modern clone of Moog’s MF‑102 ring modulator, aimed at both guitarists and synthesists
- Price point aligns with Behringer’s strategy of affordable analog clones (e.g. BM‑15M Murf Box sold for $129 USD)
- Despite prototype imagery released in 2023, production appears heavily delayed—reflecting Behringer’s longer timelines for hardware rollout
Release Date
- Public announcement (prototype): February–March 2023
- Pre‑order announced: July 24, 2025
- Expected shipping: late 2025 (exact date unconfirmed)
Pricing
Retail pricing has begun to emerge:
- USD: Approximately $129 USD (per RAD Distribution listing)
- EUR: Using mid‑2025 exchange rates, around €120 EUR
- GBP: approximately £105 GBP
- AUD: approximately A$190 AUD
Estimated Official MSRP:
| Currency | Price |
|---|---|
| USD | $129 |
| EUR | ≈ €120 |
| GBP | ≈ £105 |
| AUD | ≈ A$190 |
Note: these are approximate retail conversions and may vary by region, taxes, and shipping.
Link: https://www.behringer.com/product.html?modelCode=0709-ALN
✅ Final Summary
The Behringer BM‑12 Ring Modulator is a highly anticipated analog effects pedal based on the Moog MF‑102. First previewed in 2023, it entered pre‑order in July 2025 with a price around $129 USD and equivalent prices in EUR, GBP, and AUD. Featuring LFO controls, drive, and CV modulation I/O, it’s designed to unlock classic metallic and tremolo textures at a budget‑friendly price.
Cheerful Electronics OPL Studio
Cheerful Electronics’ OPL Studio is a compact, standalone MIDI-driven FM‑synthesizer built around two OPL3 chips—offering up to 36‑channel polyphony and full control over the classic OPL3/YMF262 sound engine. It presents a retro‑style Windows 3.1/95‑inspired UI on a 240×320 TFT touch‑screen, enhanced with rotary encoders and external CV/trigger inputs for hybrid control.
Key Features
- Dual OPL3 chips: up to 36 channels in 2‑operator mode, or flexible layering for complex tones
- Patch Editor: edit all 128 melodic and 47 drum patches, patch‑linking up to 4 layers with configurable delay, transpose, volume, panning
- Sequencers:
- Melody sequencer: polyphonic recording in 16–64 steps with velocity, pitch bend, modulation, panning support
- Drum sequencer: 8 tracks for drums with volume/panning per track
- Four‑track live sequencer + Composer app: arrange sequences into songs over 5 minutes, loopable and editable in‑place
- MIDI playback and routing: full polyphonic playback, internal or external clock, support for MIDI controls (aftertouch, CC, sustain, modulation, pitch bend), 16‑channel mixer with mute/solo and instrument preview
- I/O and control options: USB and DIN MIDI in/out, external analog/CV inputs, TFT touch‑screen plus two rotary encoders
- MicroSD slot: store and load sessions (.OPS), instrument bank files (.BNK, *.SB, *.O3, *.TMB), plus media playback (.VGM, .DRO, .IMF)
- Media player: built‑in playback of OPL formats including tracked game audio, with smoother playback routines introduced in later firmware iterations
🎹 2025 MIDI Innovation Awards Entrant
– The 2025 MIDI Innovation Awards honored cutting‑edge MIDI tools across six categories, including a new MIDI 2.0 category.
– While OPL Studio is not confirmed as a finalist yet, entrants include both commercial hardware and prototype products, with public voting open July 14 – August 4, 2025.
– Given OPL Studio’s MIDI‑centric innovation and deep control over FM synthesis, it aligns strongly with the criteria valued in this awards framework.
🏷️ Pricing (based on Tindie listing)
Estimated prices as listed in USD, converted to AUD, Euro, and GBP at current mid‑July 2025 exchange rates (approx):
- Assembled unit: USD 189
- DIY kit: USD 145
Approximate conversions:
| Version | USD | AUD | EUR | GBP |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assembled | 189 | ~300 | ~175 | ~150 |
| DIY kit | 145 | ~230 | ~135 | ~115 |
Note: Exact amounts may vary due to shipping, taxes, and currency fluctuations.
📅 Release & Availability
- Originally announced with an expected integrated version release in early 2023.
- Real-world availability appears to have been delayed—Tindie indicates the seller “taking a break until July 21, 2025,” suggesting shipping resumed mid‑2025.
- Thus, practical availability likely began in July 2025.
Available for purchase on Tindie: https://www.tindie.com/products/cheerful/opl-studio/
Conclusion
Cheerful Electronics’ OPL Studio is a feature‑rich, retro‑themed FM synthesis workstation offering deep control over classic OPL‐chip architecture. With dual OPL3 sound engine, sequencers, patching and media playback—all in a standalone hardware package—it stands out in innovation, especially in the context of the 2025 MIDI Innovation Awards. While official finalist or winner status is not yet confirmed, its alignment with MIDI evolution and musical creativity fits well with the Awards’ focus on novel MIDI 1.0/2.0 hardware.
Link: https://www.cheerful.nl/OPLStudio/index.html
This is Noise Inc. Gamma
The Gamma is a compact “mini synth” with a unique interface that combines 7 chords + 7 independent notes mapped to a selectable diatonic scale, ensuring everything you play is always harmonically in key. Personality-packed: Features a virtual pet (nicknamed “Gamma Gotchi”) that evolves as you play—delivering playful interactivity through a small OLED screen
🧩 Features Summary
Hardware & Sound Engine
- 10 oscillators, 4 waveform types, ADSR envelope, low‑pass and high‑pass filters
- 14 low‑profile keys for triggering chords and melodies independently
Controls & Interface
- 2 thumbsticks: live manipulation of octaves, effects, and chord voicing variations
- 4 assignable knobs (2 for chords, 2 for notes) for parameter adjustment
- 1.3″ OLED screen and menu encoder for navigation, presets, and settings
Effects & Chord Variations
- On‑board effects include: octave (up/down/difference), pitch bend, chorus, filter, tremolo, vibrato, reverb, delay
- Chord modes: sus, 7th, 9th, parallel, inversions (1st/2nd), and options to remove root/third/fifth
Connectivity & Power
- USB‑C rechargeable battery
- MIDI Out (no MIDI In)
- Audio Out / headphone jack
- Built‑in speaker for standalone use
📋 Quick Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| 10 Oscillators | 4 Waveforms | Flexible sound engine |
| ADSR + Filters | Shape tone and dynamics |
| 14 Low‑Profile Keys | Independent chords & melody |
| 2 Thumbsticks + 4 Knobs | Real-time control and voicing |
| Built-in Effects | Delay, reverb, vibrato, chorus, etc. |
| Chord Variations | Sus, 7th, 9th, inversions, etc. |
| OLED + Menu Encoder | Navigation, presets, settings |
| Virtual Pet “Gamma Gotchi” | Evolves with play |
| Connectivity | MIDI Out, audio out, USB‑C |
| Standalone Playback | On-board speaker |
| Pricing & Release | Info |
|---|---|
| USD | $299.99 |
| AUD (est.) | ≈ AU 449 |
| EUR (est.) | ≈ €274 |
| GBP (est.) | ≈ £234 |
| Pre-orders opened | May 1, 2025 |
| Ship date projected | August 2025 |
🎹 MIDI Innovation Awards 2025
- Gamma is listed among the Commercial Hardware entries in the 2025 MIDI Innovation Awards, which celebrated products using MIDI 1.0 or 2.0 in inventive ways.
- The awards are accepting public voting between July 14 and August 4, 2025, with finalists announced August 8 and winners revealed in a livestream on September 20, 2025.
- As of now, Gamma has not yet won or been among finalists—but its inclusion highlights recognition by the MIDI Association among the broader field of innovative MIDI hardware.
🗓️ Release & Pricing
Pricing (MSRP):
- USD 299.99 (regular price)
Release timeline:
- Pre‑orders opened May 1, 2025, aligned with the Toronto Pedal & Synth Expo (May 3–4, 2025)
- Expected shipping: August 2025, assuming normal production volume
Estimated pricing in other currencies (based on current mid‑2025 exchange rates around USD 1 = AUD 1.5, EUR 0.91, GBP 0.78):
- 🇦🇺 AUD ≈ AU 449
- 🇪🇺 EUR ≈ €274
- 🇬🇧 GBP ≈ £234
(Please verify final regional retail pricing and taxes/VAT once available.)
🚀 Final Word
Gamma Mini Synth is a creative tool designed to make playing music accessible, playful, and expressive—even for those with no prior musical training. Its always‑in‑key operation, unique chord‑note layout, immersive effects, and virtual pet element offer a fresh take on compact synth hardware. With pre-sales underway and shipping expected in August 2025, it’s priced competitively at USD 299.99 (roughly AU 449 / EUR 274 / GBP 234). Though not yet a winner, Gamma has earned recognition as a commercial hardware entrant in the 2025 MIDI Innovation Awards, with public voting and finalist announcements still pending.
Link: https://thisisnoiseinc.com/pages/gamma
Sonoclast The Plastic Pitch MIDI Microtuner
The Sonoclast Plastic Pitch MIDI Microtuner is a leap forward in microtonal music-making. Developed for musicians, composers, and sound designers pushing beyond the limitations of standard tuning systems, Plastic Pitch bridges expressive playability with the precision of digital control.
🔧 Feature Highlights
- Intuitive, one-knob‑per‑note interface: 12 tuning knobs (black & white key layout), each with one‑cent resolution and optional Scala scale quantization.
- Four MIDI inputs / outputs, allowing you to micro-tune multiple controllers and synth voices simultaneously across separate output ports.
- Multiple tuning protocols supported per output:
- MIDI Polyphonic Expression (MPE)
- Basic MIDI pitch bend
- MIDI Tuning Standard (MTS), configurable independently per output.
- Web-based configuration tool (Web MIDI interface) for deep customisation and setup via browser.
- Scala file support: quantize tuning knobs or load/save custom scale presets in
.sclformat. - MPE controller support, channel splitting (up to 16 parts), tuning automation via MIDI CCs, multitimbral tuning possibilities.
🎹 MIDI Innovation Awards 2025
The Plastic Pitch MIDI Microtuner has been nominated for the 2025 MIDI Innovation Awards.
💰 Pricing (estimated)
Reverb listing shows a typical USA retail price of USD 675 (brand‑new) reverb.comreverb.com.
Using approximate currency conversions:
| Currency | Approximate Price |
|---|---|
| USD | 675 USD |
| AUD | ~1,012 AUD |
| EUR | ~608 EUR |
| GBP | ~527 GBP |
(Conversion rates used: 1 USD ≈ 1.50 AUD, 0.90 EUR, 0.78 GBP.)
Available for purchase on Reverb: https://tidd.ly/4kVJGg6
Link: https://sonoclast.com/products/plastic_pitch_midi_microtuner/
Morphonium Expressive Gestural MIDI Controller
The Morphonium is an innovative three-part MIDI controller designed to offer musicians unprecedented expressive control over synthesized sounds. It features a unique combination of tactile and gestural interfaces, enabling real-time sonic manipulation with exceptional nuance.
🔧 Key Features
1. Alpha – Wheelboard (Timbre Control)
- 74 control wheels and 30 buttons for MIDI notes and continuous controllers.
- Touchscreen interface for programming and feedback.
- Ergonomic design allows for single-finger adjustments, enabling up to five simultaneous controls.
- Color-coded wheels with tactile ridges aid in navigation and accessibility.
2. Delta – Keyboard (Melody)
- 4-octave velocity-sensitive keyboard.
- “Vibe Bar” for vibrato and calibrated pitch bends.
- “Gliss Strip” for up to 2-octave glissando.
- “Tron” for theremin-like continuous control of pitch and volume.
- “Transer” detects hand proximity to transpose notes by one to three octaves.
- Breath controller for expressive articulation.
3. Omega – Pedalboard
- Continuous expression pedal for filter and brightness control.
- Sustain pedal with continuous or digital modes.
- Four digital pedals for loop control.
🎹 2025 MIDI Innovation Awards Nominee
The Morphonium has been nominated for the 2025 MIDI Innovation Awards, which celebrate groundbreaking advancements in MIDI technology. The awards are organized collaboratively by The MIDI Association, NAMM, and Music Hackspace, highlighting innovative products and projects that utilize MIDI 1.0 and 2.0 in novel ways.
💰 Pricing & Availability
As of now, the Morphonium is in its first prototype stage, combining earlier hand-made controllers into a single instrument. The developers are working on a second prototype focusing on improved robustness and reduced manufacturing costs. Specific pricing information has not been released yet.
📅 Release Date
A definitive release date has not been announced. The team is currently refining the design and manufacturing processes, with plans for a second prototype to be documented as an open-source project. Production will be considered based on community interest.
Link: https://www.morphonium.org/
MEMLNaut
MEMLNaut is an innovative musical instrument and research platform designed to explore the intersection of music and machine learning. Developed by Musically Embodied Machine Learning (MEML), it empowers musicians and researchers to process, generate, and manipulate sound using advanced machine learning techniques. Notably, MEMLNaut is a finalist in the 2025 MIDI Innovation Awards, highlighting its groundbreaking approach to MIDI technology and musical expression.
🔧 Key Features
- Dual-Core Microcontroller: Equipped with a dual-core microcontroller chip, MEMLNaut can optimize and run machine learning models, enabling real-time audio processing and generation.
- Extensive I/O and Interfaces: Offers a wide range of input/output options and interfaces, making it compatible with various musical setups and allowing for extensive customization.
- Open-Source Design: All KiCad files are available on GitHub, promoting transparency and allowing users to modify and adapt the hardware to their needs.
- Interactive Machine Learning: Utilizes reinforcement learning algorithms to adapt and evolve its sound generation based on user input, creating a dynamic and responsive musical experience.
- Customizable Firmware: Supports various firmware options, including multi-effect processors and sequencers, providing flexibility for different musical applications.
🎹 MIDI Innovation Awards 2025
The 2025 MIDI Innovation Awards celebrate groundbreaking advancements in MIDI technology. MEMLNaut is a finalist in this year’s awards, underscoring its innovative approach to integrating machine learning with musical performance. The awards aim to spotlight advancements in MIDI 1.0 and 2.0 technologies that enhance musical creativity.
💰 Pricing
As an open-source project, MEMLNaut’s hardware can be assembled by users, potentially reducing costs. However, specific pricing details for assembled units are not provided on the official website. Users interested in purchasing or building MEMLNaut are encouraged to visit the official site or contact the developers for more information.
📅 Release Date
The MEMLNaut is currently available for purchase or assembly. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on availability, please refer to the official website or contact the developers directly.
Link: https://musicallyembodiedml.github.io/
MIDI Mesh CV
The MIDI Mesh CV is a groundbreaking wireless MIDI-to-CV converter designed for Eurorack modular synthesizers. It seamlessly bridges the gap between modern digital MIDI 2.0 protocols and traditional analog CV/Gate systems, eliminating the need for cables while maintaining professional-grade precision.
🔧 Key Features
- Wireless Connectivity: Operates over WiFi, eliminating the need for physical cables.
- MIDI 2.0 Compliance: Supports the latest MIDI 2.0 (UDP) specification for enhanced performance.
- Dual-Mode Operation: Functions as a standalone access point or connects to existing networks.
- Extended Range: Offers up to 45 meters wireless range with sub-5ms latency.
- Precision CV Generation: Provides two independent sets of 1V/octave pitch CV, gate, velocity, and modulation outputs with 16-bit PWM resolution.
- Web Configurable: Allows for easy setup and customization via a web interface.
- Multi-Output Capability: Supports multiple outputs for expanded creative possibilities.
🎹 MIDI Innovation Awards 2025
The public voting for the 2025 MIDI Innovation Awards is open until August 4, 2025. MIDI Mesh CV is a finalist in the Prototype/Non-Commercial Hardware category.
💰 Pricing
As of now, the MIDI Mesh CV is a prototype and has not yet been released for sale. Therefore, specific pricing information is not available.
📅 Release Date
The MIDI Mesh CV is currently in the prototype stage, with no official release date announced. Updates on its availability will likely be provided following the conclusion of the 2025 MIDI Innovation Awards.
Link: TBA
NEO Harp
The NEO Harp is an innovative musical instrument designed to bridge the gap between traditional music theory and practical playability. By simplifying chord formation, it empowers musicians of all skill levels to perform complex pieces with ease. This approach addresses a common challenge faced by aspiring musicians: translating chord symbols into actual sound. The NEO Harp’s intuitive design allows users to focus on musical expression rather than technical proficiency.
🔧 Key Features
- Simplified Chord Layout: Designed to make chord formation intuitive and accessible.
- MIDI Compatibility: Seamlessly integrates with digital audio workstations and virtual instruments.
- Ergonomic Design: Crafted for comfort during extended play sessions.
- Customizable Sound Profiles: Allows users to tailor their sound to suit various musical genres.
- Educational Tools: Incorporates features that aid in music learning and practice.
🎹 MIDI Innovation Awards 2025
Recognizing its groundbreaking design, the NEO Harp has been nominated for the 2025 MIDI Innovation Awards, competing in the “Prototype/Non-Commercial Hardware” category. This nomination underscores its potential to transform music accessibility and education
💰 Pricing (Estimated)
As the NEO Harp is currently in the prototype stage, official pricing has not been released. However, based on similar MIDI-compatible instruments, estimated prices are as follows:
- AUD: $1,200
- USD: $800
- EUR: €750
- GBP: £650
Please note that these are approximate figures and actual prices may vary upon release.
📅 Release Date
The NEO Harp is currently in the prototype phase. Specific release dates have not been announced. Updates regarding its availability will be shared through official channels as they become available.
Link: TBA
TATO Aline
TATO Aline is a brand‑new standalone hardware sequencer developed by Tato Audio, offering up to 16 independent layers, each powered by one of eight sequencer engines (Grid, Line, 303, Arp, Euclidean, Call & Response, Play, Progress). You can layer traditional sequencing and generative patterns to build evolving, intertwined musical compositions. Aline supports both MIDI and CV/Gate outputs, optimised for live and DAW‑less performance.
✅ Feature List
- 16 independent sequencer layers, combined to generate complex patterns
- Eight engine types (4 parametric, 4 imperative) for creative control: Grid, Line, 303, Arp, Euclidean, Call & Response, Play, Progress
- Creative layering where layers modulate velocity, pitch, duration separately
- Performance‑oriented controls: central display, six encoders, 16 step buttons with LEDs
- Connectivity: USB‑C, TRS MIDI In/Out, Sync In/Out, six CV/Gate outputs (3 CV + 3 Gate)
- MIDI + CV sequencing for modular / eurorack setups
- Built for both live performance and studio composition
🎹 MIDI Innovation Awards 2025
TATO Aline has been submitted as a Commercial Hardware product to the 2025 MIDI Innovation Awards—a respected global showcase established in 2021 by The MIDI Association, NAMM, and Music Hackspace. These awards spotlight breakthroughs in MIDI 1.0 and 2.0, including new categories in 2025 such as Best MIDI 2.0 Product. While winners are revealed September 20, 2025, Aline is highlighted among other commercial hardware entrants.
💰 Pricing (Estimate €499 base)
Tato Audio lists the expected price at €499. As of late July 2025 exchange rates:
- EUR → USD ~ 1 EUR = 1.1753 USD → ≈ $587 USD
- EUR → GBP ~ 1 EUR = 0.8702 GBP → ≈ £434 GBP
- EUR → AUD ~ 1 EUR = 1.782 AUD → ≈ A$890 AUD
✅ Pricing Table
| Currency | Approximate Price |
|---|---|
| € EUR | €499 |
| ≈ US $ | US$ 585–590 |
| ≈ GB £ | £430–435 |
| ≈ A$ | A$ 890–900 |
(Rounded to sensible estimates based on current mid‑market rates as of July 24–25, 2025.)
📅 Release Date
Tato Audio anticipates the first commercial batch shipping by August 1, 2025, with waitlist open now.
Price Watch
Find below images and links to the items we showed for the price watch segment.
| Vintage Roland Rhythm Composer TR-707 (in original packaging) | https://tidd.ly/472wbIe |
| Alex Van Halen Tour and Studio Used Simmons SDSV Drum Synthesizer | https://tidd.ly/4o8Lfdv |
| Akai MPC3000 MIDI Production Center (1993–2001, Grey) | https://tidd.ly/417Ti0e |
| Sequential Circuits Prophet 20 (Double Prophet 10, Restored by VS Co) | https://tidd.ly/3FddcPH |
| PMS Performance Music Systems Syntar (1980 Standard) | https://tidd.ly/4o7Xdny |
| Waldorf Wave 61-Key Synthesizer (1993, Blue) | https://tidd.ly/3H8VA8u |
| Korg PS-3100 Polyphonic Synthesizer (Crypto/Bitcoin Pay, MIDI Upgraded, Ultra Rare) | https://tidd.ly/45tEomD |
| Korg PS-3200 Polyphonic Synthesizer (w/ Kenton MIDI, PS-3010 Keyboard & PS-3001 Cable) | https://tidd.ly/4f4Am8i |
| Macbeth M5N (White) | https://tidd.ly/4kYDDHM |
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 …..
