Synth Geekery 317
In episode 317 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
Yamaha MODX M
The Yamaha MODX M series, is a powerful and portable synthesizer workstation designed to deliver professional-grade sound and performance. Building upon the legacy of the flagship MONTAGE M, the MODX M offers enhanced features and improved usability in a lightweight package.
🎹 Yamaha MODX M Overview
The MODX M series comprises three models:
- MODX M6: 61 keys with semi-weighted FSB keyboard
- MODX M7: 76 keys with semi-weighted FSB keyboard
- MODX M8: 88 keys with GHS hammer-action keyboard
All models share the same core technology and feature set, differing only in key count and action type.
🔧 Key Features
- Three Sound Engines:
- AN-X: 12-voice polyphonic analog modeling engine with three oscillators and vintage-style features like waveshaping, wavefolding, ring modulation, PWM, FM, and voltage drift.
- FM-X: Advanced FM synthesis engine with enhanced modulation capabilities.
- AWM2: 128-voice sample-based engine with 5GB of wave memory and 1.9GB for user samples.
- Enhanced Control Interface:
- Additional faders and knobs for improved hands-on control.
- Upgraded Super Knob with more control positions.
- Dedicated buttons for Part and Scene selection.
- USB Audio Interface:
- 4-in/10-out USB audio interface supporting MIDI 2.0.
- Expanded Softsynth Plugin (ESP):
- Allows integration with DAWs for preset creation and editing.
📝 Feature Comparison Table
| Feature | MODX M Series | Previous MODX Series |
|---|---|---|
| Sound Engines | AN-X, FM-X, AWM2 | AWM2, FM-X |
| AN-X Engine | Yes (12-voice analog modeling) | No |
| AWM2 Memory | 5GB wave + 1.9GB user | 2GB wave + 1.6GB user |
| FM-X Enhancements | Advanced modulation capabilities | Standard FM-X |
| Control Interface | More faders, knobs, and buttons | Fewer physical controls |
| USB Audio Interface | 4-in/10-out, MIDI 2.0 | 2-in/2-out, MIDI 1.0 |
| ESP Plugin | Yes (for DAW integration) | No |
Price: $1799 (M6), $1999 (M7), $2499 (M8) in USD
Link: https://yamahasynth.com/learn/modx-m/blakes-take-introducing-modx-m/
Behringer CZ-1 MINI
The Behringer CZ-1 MINI is a compact, desktop synthesizer inspired by the classic Casio CZ-1. It revives the distinctive phase-distortion synthesis of the 1980s while adding modern enhancements such as an analogue low-pass filter, MIDI/USB connectivity, and a built-in sequencer and arpeggiator.
Designed for portability and studio use, it offers authentic digital tones in a mini format suitable for both beginners and professionals.
Key Features
Compact size and USB power, ideal for desktop or portable setups
Hybrid phase-distortion engine with 8 classic waveforms (saw, square, pulse, double-sine, saw-pulse, and three resonant shapes)
3-voice polyphony for compact yet rich sound layering
Analogue 24 dB low-pass filter with resonance for vintage warmth
8-stage envelope generator for pitch, timbre, and amplitude control
27 capacitive touch keys for performance input
16-step sequencer and 3-pattern arpeggiator for rhythm creation
Built-in chorus and vibrato effects with multiple shapes
OLED display for visual editing and menu navigation
Full MIDI implementation (USB-C, 5-pin DIN MIDI In, and Sync input)
SysEx compatibility with original Casio CZ patches
Table Summary
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Polyphony | 3 voices |
| Synthesis Engine | Hybrid phase-distortion (8 waveforms) |
| Filter | Analogue 24 dB low-pass with resonance |
| Keys | 27 capacitive touch keys |
| Sequencer | 16-step sequencer, 3-pattern arpeggiator |
| Effects | Chorus and vibrato |
| Connectivity | USB-C (power + MIDI), 5-pin DIN MIDI In, Sync input, headphone/line output |
| SysEx Support | Yes – compatible with original Casio CZ patches |
| Display | OLED |
| Dimensions / Weight | 193 × 124 × 42 mm / ~0.36 kg |
| Build Type | Compact desktop synth |
| Power | USB-C powered |
| MSRP | USD 89 |
Pricing (Approximate)
| Currency | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| USD | $89 | Official MSRP |
| EUR | €85–90 | Typical European pricing |
| GBP | £76–89 | Common UK retail range |
| AUD | A$135–150 | Based on current conversion rates |
Summary
The Behringer CZ-1 MINI offers a faithful recreation of the Casio CZ-1’s phase-distortion synthesis in a small, affordable, and modern package. With added analogue filtering, built-in sequencing, full MIDI control, and USB power, it provides excellent value for electronic musicians seeking vintage digital sounds with a contemporary workflow.
Link: https://www.behringer.com/behringer/product?modelCode=0718-ACK
Behringer UBXa mini
The Behringer UB‑Xa Mini is a compact analog synthesizer inspired by the larger UB‑Xa model. It delivers a rich analog sound in a small package, featuring a fully analog signal path and three VCOs. The synth captures the character of the classic Oberheim OB‑Xa with authentic VCO and VCF circuitry.
The mini version is smaller, more affordable, and simplified compared to the full UB‑Xa. It includes a range of play modes and a 16-step motion sequencer, making it ideal for enthusiasts, learners, or as supplementary gear in a studio or live setup.
Features & Highlights
- Analog signal path: Pure analog path based on authentic VCO, VCF, and VCA designs.
- 3 VCOs (Voltage-Controlled Oscillators): Provides full analog richness in a compact unit.
- Dual-slope low-pass filter (VCF): Switchable between 12 dB and 24 dB slopes for different tonal shapes.
- Ring Modulator on square waves: Adds metallic, bell-like textures.
- Play modes: Poly, Unison, Octaves, Fifths, Ring Unison, Ring Poly.
- LFO (Low-Frequency Oscillator): Multiple waveforms for modulation of pitch, filter cutoff, and PWM.
- 16-step motion sequencer: Includes 10 memory slots for recording knob movements.
- Compact format: 27 touch-sensitive keys for portability.
- Connectivity: USB‑C (power/data), headphone/line output, sync in/out, MIDI IN (5‑pin DIN).
- Affordable pricing: Initial teaser price around $99 USD.
Note: While the product is described as polyphonic, it may function as paraphonic, meaning the three VCOs share a single filter and VCA.
Table Summary
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Product name | Behringer UB‑Xa Mini |
| Signal architecture | Analog signal path (VCO → VCF → VCA) |
| Number of VCOs | 3 |
| Filter (VCF) | Dual-slope low-pass (12 dB / 24 dB) |
| Ring Modulator | On square waves |
| Play/Vocal Modes | Poly, Unison, Octaves, Fifths, Ring Unison, Ring Poly |
| Sequencer | 16-step motion sequencer with 10 memory slots |
| Keys | 27 touch-sensitive keys |
| Connectivity | USB‑C, headphone/line output, sync in/out, MIDI IN |
| Introductory price (USD) | $109 |
| Teaser price | $99 |
Approximate pricing in other currencies
| Currency | Price |
|---|---|
| USD | $109 |
| EUR | €100–110 |
| GBP | £85–90 |
| AUD | A$160–170 |
Final Thoughts
The UB‑Xa Mini is a strong value in the analog synthesizer market. It provides analog VCOs, dual-slope filtering, ring modulation, a sequencer, and a compact format—all inspired by the OB‑Xa sound. It is perfect for portable analog character, sound design, or as a secondary synth in a studio setup.
Link: https://www.behringer.com/product.html?modelCode=0722-AAZ
Akai MPK Mini IV
The Akai MPK Mini MKIV is the fourth generation of Akai’s popular 25-key compact MIDI keyboard controller, built for producers, beatmakers, and live performers who want professional features in a portable form.
It refines the MPK Mini series with a new full-colour screen, mechanical pitch and modulation wheels, improved keybed, upgraded pads, and modern connectivity options like USB-C and 5-pin MIDI Out. The controller also comes bundled with a comprehensive suite of software instruments and DAW integration tools, making it ready for both beginners and experienced producers.
Key Features
- 25 velocity-sensitive mini keys with octave up/down range (10 octaves total)
- Dedicated pitch and modulation wheels – replacing the older joystick design
- 8 RGB-backlit MPC-style pads, velocity and pressure sensitive
- 8 assignable 360° rotary knobs for plugin or DAW control
- Full-colour display for real-time feedback and parameter editing
- Integrated transport and DAW control section (pre-mapped for major DAWs such as Ableton Live, Logic Pro, FL Studio, Cubase, Bitwig)
- Scale Mode and Chord Mode for musical performance assistance
- Enhanced arpeggiator featuring Pattern, Freeze, and Mutate functions
- USB-C connectivity (bus-powered for plug-and-play use)
- 5-pin MIDI Out (DIN) for direct hardware synth control
- Sustain pedal input (¼-inch TS) for expressive play
- Included software bundle:
- Studio Instrument Collection (over 1,000 presets by AIR, Moog, and Akai)
- Ableton Live Lite 12
- Compact, portable, and durable design – ideal for mobile or studio use
- Available in Black/Red and Retro Grey finishes
Specification Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Keys | 25 mini keys, velocity-sensitive, octave up/down (10 octaves total) |
| Pitch & Modulation | Mechanical pitch wheel and modulation wheel |
| Pads | 8 RGB-backlit MPC pads (velocity and pressure sensitive) |
| Rotary Knobs | 8 assignable 360° knobs |
| Display | Full-colour screen |
| Performance Modes | Scale Mode, Chord Mode, Arpeggiator with Pattern, Freeze, Mutate |
| Connectivity | USB-C (bus-powered), 5-pin MIDI Out, sustain pedal input |
| Software Bundle | Studio Instrument Collection (1,000+ presets), Ableton Live Lite 12 |
| DAW Integration | Pre-mapped for major DAWs |
| Build & Design | Compact, portable design; available in two colour options |
| Release Year | 2025 |
| Manufacturer | Akai Professional |
Pricing (Approximate)
| Currency | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| USD | $99 | Official U.S. retail price |
| EUR | €109.99 | Standard European retail price |
| GBP | £94.99 | Typical U.K. retail price |
| AUD | $179 | Average Australian retail price (including GST) |
Summary:
The MPK Mini MKIV combines portability with professional-grade performance tools. With its upgraded keybed, RGB pads, modern USB-C connection, and integrated DAW controls, it stands as Akai’s most capable mini-controller to date — perfect for music producers on the go or in the studio.
Link: https://www.akaipro.com/mpk-mini-4.html
Doepfer A-155-2 Sequencer
The Doepfer A-155-2 is a compact, 8-step analog sequencer designed for Eurorack modular systems. It offers precise control over pitch and rhythm, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users looking for flexible sequencing capabilities.
Key Features
- 8-Step Sequencer: Each step has a CV knob and an illuminated gate button for precise pitch and timing control.
- Adjustable Sequence Length: Configurable from 1 to 8 steps.
- Multiple Playback Modes: Forward, backward, pendulum (forward-backward), random, and repeat modes.
- Ratcheting: 2-, 3-, or 4-fold per-step retriggers for complex rhythms.
- Voltage Range Selection: CV output selectable between 1V, 2V, or 4V.
- Preset Storage: Save and recall up to 8 presets, including gates, direction, length, and ratcheting.
- Clock and Reset Inputs: Synchronize with other modules.
- Compact Design: 12 HP width, 50 mm depth, compatible with most Eurorack cases.
- Power Consumption: 50 mA (+12V) / 20 mA (-12V).
Specifications Table
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Sequence Length | 1–8 steps |
| CV Knobs | 1 per step |
| Gate Buttons | 1 per step (illuminated) |
| Playback Modes | Forward, Backward, Pendulum, Random, Repeat |
| Ratcheting | 2-, 3-, or 4-fold per step |
| Voltage Ranges | 1V, 2V, 4V |
| Presets | 8 (stores gates, direction, length, ratcheting) |
| Clock/Reset Inputs | Yes |
| Width | 12 HP |
| Depth | 50 mm |
| Power Consumption | 50 mA (+12V) / 20 mA (-12V) |
| Price (Standard) | €180 |
| Price (Vintage Ed.) | €200 |
Pricing Overview
- Europe (EUR): €180 for standard, €200 for Vintage Edition
- United States (USD): Approximately $200
- United Kingdom (GBP): Approximately £173
- Australia (AUD): Approximately AU$357
Link: https://www.doepfer.de/home_e.htm
Strymon SyperKar+
The Strymon SuperKar+ is a 32-voice Eurorack module that uses Karplus-Strong synthesis to emulate a wide range of acoustic sounds, including plucked or bowed strings, struck or blown pipes, and various percussive textures. It is designed for musicians and sound designers seeking expressive and organic tones, offering intuitive control and seamless integration into modular setups.
Key Features
- Dual Voice Engines: Two independent voices—Solo and Chord—each with 16-note polyphony, allowing for complex arrangements and harmonies.
- Polyphonic MIDI Control: Solo Voice supports polyphonic MIDI input with velocity sensitivity for expressive performance.
- Comprehensive CV Control: CV inputs for parameters such as attack, decay, damping, pitch, detune, and harmony for deep modulation.
- Multiple Output Modes: Output modes include Wide Stereo, Narrow Stereo, Split Voice, and Mono for flexible routing.
- Integrated Envelope and Mixer: Independent attack, decay, and damping controls for each voice, with internal mixer and output level control.
- High-Quality Audio Processing: 520MHz ARM processor with 32-bit floating-point audio processing ensures pristine sound.
- Compact Form Factor: Occupies 12 HP in a Eurorack setup, depth of 38 mm, fitting easily in various modular configurations.
Price Overview
| Region | Price (USD) | Price (EUR) | Price (GBP) | Price (AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Strymon | $399 | €429 | £389 | N/A |
| Thomann | $399 | €429 | £389 | N/A |
| Andertons | N/A | N/A | £389 | N/A |
| Sweetwater | $399 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Reverb | Varies | Varies | Varies | Varies |
Note: Prices are approximate and may vary by retailer and region.
The SuperKar+ is a versatile and expressive module, ideal for adding organic, polyphonic textures and advanced synthesis capabilities to any Eurorack system.
Link: https://www.strymon.net/product/superkarplus/
Omnisphere 3
Omnisphere 3 combines multiple synthesis methods—sample-based, granular, wavetable, and analog-style synthesis—into a single platform. It offers over 18 curated sound libraries, including deep-sampled instruments like the Nyckelharpa and Sul Tasto Cello, and introduces innovative features such as the “Orb” interface for real-time sound manipulation. The software is compatible with major DAWs and supports full MPE (MIDI Polyphonic Expression) for expressive performance.
✨ Key Features
Expanded Hardware Integration: Now supports integration with all major synthesizer brands and MIDI controllers.
Adaptive Global Controls: Automatically adjust key sound parameters like tone, ambience, and filter for quick customization.
Patch Mutations: Generate and save variations of any patch with a single click.
Quadzone Modulation: Enable complex modulation across four zones for dynamic soundscapes.
36 New Filter Types: Expand sonic possibilities with a diverse range of filters.
Vintage Oscillator Drift: Emulate analog instability for a warmer sound.
Dual Frequency Shifter: Achieve polyphonic frequency shifting for unique textures.
Fresh EDM Wavetables: Incorporate modern wavetables for contemporary styles.
Classic Glide Modes: Mimic portamento curves from iconic synthesizers.
Deep-Sampled Soundsources: Access a vast array of unique, multisampled instruments.
💰 Pricing (as of October 18, 2025)
| Edition | Price (USD) | Price (EUR) | Price (GBP) | Price (AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Full Product (Download/Boxed) | $499 | €399 | £349 | A$799 |
| Standard Upgrade (Omnisphere 2) | $199 | €159 | £139 | A$299 |
| Atmosphere Upgrade (Omnisphere 1) | $249 | €199 | £169 | A$349 |
*Note: Prices are approximate and may vary based on exchange rates and regional pricing policies.
📊 Feature Comparison Table
| Feature | Omnisphere 2 | Omnisphere 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Adaptive Global Controls | ❌ | ✅ |
| Patch Mutations | ❌ | ✅ |
| Quadzone Modulation | ❌ | ✅ |
| 36 New Filter Types | ❌ | ✅ |
| Vintage Oscillator Drift | ❌ | ✅ |
| Dual Frequency Shifter | ❌ | ✅ |
| EDM Wavetables | ❌ | ✅ |
| Classic Glide Modes | ❌ | ✅ |
| Deep-Sampled Soundsources | ❌ | ✅ |
| Expanded Hardware Integration | ❌ | ✅ |
Link: https://www.spectrasonics.net/
SSI BBD 2100
The SSI BBD 2100 is a 512-stage analog delay line IC that operates from a single 5V supply. It offers delay times ranging from 1 ms to over 1000 ms, depending on the clock frequency. The chip is designed to be compact, efficient, and compatible with modern digital logic levels.
Key Features
- 512-Stage Delay Line: Provides a wide range of delay times, suitable for various audio applications.
- Clock Frequency Range: Operates with clock frequencies from 1 kHz to over 2 MHz, allowing for flexible delay time adjustments.
- Integrated Clock Driver: Simplifies external clock sourcing and is TTL/CMOS 5V and 3.3V compatible, eliminating the need for a companion BBD clock IC.
- On-Chip Tetrode Bias Generator: Eliminates the need for externally providing the legacy “14/15 VGG” supply voltage, reducing component count.
- Daisy-Chaining Capability: Allows easy connection of multiple SSI BBD 2100 units for longer delay times without recalibrating inputs and outputs.
- Intermediate Feedback Taps: Access to intermediate feedback taps enables interesting reverb and other psychoacoustic effects.
- Compact Package: Available in an 8-lead SOP surface-mount package, saving board space.
- Single 5V Operation: Simplifies power supply requirements and reduces overall system complexity.
Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Supply Voltage (V+) | 4.75V to 5.25V |
| Supply Current (I+) | 0.4 mA (typical) |
| Tetrode Bias Voltage (VGG) | 4.65V to 4.75V |
| Clock Frequency Range | 1 kHz to >2 MHz |
| Package Type | 8-lead SOP |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C to +85°C |
| Delay Line Stages | 512 |
Pricing Information
As of now, specific pricing for the SSI BBD 2100 is not publicly listed on Sound Semiconductor’s website. For pricing details, you can contact Sound Semiconductor directly or reach out to their authorized resellers. They offer OEM purchases directly and less-than-full-tube quantities through authorized resellers.
Link: https://www.soundsemiconductor.com/
Firmware News
| Manufacturer | Device | What’s New? | Firmware Version |
|---|---|---|---|
| Teenage Engineering | OP-XY | Sample slicing | firmware 1.1.0 |
| 1010music | Bento | Fireball wavetable synth | firmware 1.2.16 (beta) |
Price Watch
Find below images and links to the items we showed for the price watch segment.
| Behringer UB-Xa SCAMMER BEWARE!! | https://www.shavecan.com/product-p-320179.html |
| Cordovox Freeman CSS String Symphonizer | https://ebay.us/EoLMLy |
| Alesis QuadraVerb2 | https://ebay.us/Vdi6sq |
| Moog Minimoog Model D | https://ebay.us/lKdfOK |
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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