Synth Geekery 333
In episode 333 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
Arturia KeySTEP 37 Mk2
The Arturia KeyStep 37 Mk2 has officially arrived, solidifying its place as the “Swiss Army Knife” of the MIDI controller world. Building on the massive success of the original KeyStep 37, this Mk2 iteration introduces professional-grade features previously reserved for the flagship KeyStep Pro, all while maintaining its portable, backpack-friendly footprint.
Overview: A Modern Nerve-Center
The KeyStep 37 Mk2 is designed to be the bridge between your digital and analog worlds. Whether you are controlling a DAW like Ableton Live, sequencing a vintage hardware synth via MIDI, or patching into a Eurorack modular system, this controller handles it all with ease.
The most striking upgrade is the inclusion of a high-contrast OLED display and four context-sensitive encoders. This duo removes the guesswork of the previous generation, allowing you to edit sequences, chords, and scales directly on the hardware without ever needing to open a computer application.
Key Features
- 37-Note Slimkey Keyboard: Velocity-sensitive keys with aftertouch provide expressive playability that punches above its weight class.
- Generative Tools (Mutate, Spice & Dice): Borrowed from the MicroFreak, these tools allow you to instantly transform sequences and arpeggios into new musical ideas with a single button press.
- Advanced Sequencer & Arpeggiator: An 8-voice polyphonic sequencer (64 steps) with pattern chaining, and a new 16-mode arpeggiator featuring “Phrase Arp” for complex melodic textures.
- Enhanced Connectivity: Now featuring USB-C, a dedicated power switch, and a second assignable CV Mod output (Mod 1 and Mod 2), giving modular users four total CV outputs (Pitch, Gate, Mod 1, Mod 2).
- Visual Feedback: Individual RGB LEDs above every key show sequence progress, scale notes, and chord positions in real-time.
It’s easy to get lost in Arturia’s current lineup, especially with the “Mk2” badge now appearing across multiple sizes. The jump from the original KeyStep 37 to the Mk2 is significant, but the distinction between the KeyStep 37 Mk2 and the smaller KeyStep Mk2 (the 32-key version) is equally important for your studio workflow.
Here is the breakdown of how these three controllers compare:
Comparison Table: KeyStep Evolution
| Feature | KeyStep 37 Mk1 | KeyStep 37 Mk2 | KeyStep Mk2 (32-key) |
| Key Count | 37 Slimkeys | 37 Slimkeys | 32 Slimkeys |
| Aftertouch | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Display | None (LED Segment) | High-Res OLED | High-Res OLED |
| Encoders | 4 standard knobs | 4 Contextual Encoders | 1 Main Encoder |
| Connectivity | Micro-USB | USB-C | USB-C |
| CV Mod Outputs | 1 (Mod) | 2 (Mod 1 & Mod 2) | 1 (Mod) |
| Generative Tools | None | Spice, Dice & Mutate | Spice, Dice & Mutate |
| Arpeggiator | 8 Modes | 16 Modes (Phrase Arp) | 16 Modes (Phrase Arp) |
| Visual Feedback | LEDs above keys | RGB LEDs above keys | RGB LEDs above keys |
| Scale Mode | Limited (via shift) | Expanded + On-screen | Expanded + On-screen |
| Power Switch | No | Yes | Yes |
Key Takeaways
- KeyStep 37 Mk1 vs. Mk2: The biggest upgrade is the OLED screen and the Generative Tools. On the Mk1, you were essentially “flying blind” when adjusting parameters. The Mk2 brings the “Spice and Dice” features from the MicroFreak/KeyStep Pro, allowing for much more creative, happy accidents during sequencing.
- KeyStep 37 Mk2 vs. KeyStep Mk2 (32): While they share the new OLED screen and USB-C tech, the 37 Mk2 is the superior studio centerpiece. It gives you those four dedicated encoders for real-time MIDI CC control (perfect for tweaking VSTs) and an extra CV Mod output, which is a game-changer for complex modular rigs.
- Connectivity: Both Mk2 models have finally moved to USB-C and added a physical power switch—a small but very welcome “quality of life” improvement for those tired of unplugging cables to turn gear off.
Get the Arturia KeyStep 37 Mk2 at Thomann > You can purchase the new KeyStep 37 Mk2 directly from Thomann, one of the world’s leading music retailers.
👉 Click here to Buy (Affiliate Link) (costs no more – supports Synth Geekery)
Pricing & Availability
The KeyStep 37 Mk2 is positioned as a high-value mid-tier controller. Below are the approximate retail prices:
| Currency | Estimated Retail Price |
| USD | $229.00 |
| EURO | €229.00 |
| UK (GBP) | £189.00 |
| AUD | $349.00 |
Summary Table
| Feature | Specifications |
| Keybed | 37 Slimkeys with Velocity & Aftertouch |
| Sequencer | 64-step, 8-voice polyphonic, 64 pattern slots |
| Arpeggiator | 16 modes (including Phrase Arp & Generative) |
| I/O | MIDI In/Out (5-pin), Sync In/Out, Sustain/Expression |
| CV Outputs | 4 x 3.5mm (Pitch, Gate, Mod 1, Mod 2) |
| Digital Connection | USB-C (Bus powered or DC) |
| Weight | 1.09 kg (2.4 lbs) |
| Software Bundle | Analog Lab Intro, Ableton Live Lite |
Get one here: https://clickfi.re/DSCBiVYp
Midiphy zetaSID
Bringing the legendary C64 sound to the Eurorack format, midiphy has officially launched the zetaSID. This 4HP module isn’t just a simple oscillator; it is a complete, expandable SID-powered synthesizer engine based on the iconic MIDIbox SID (MBSID) architecture.
Whether you are looking for classic chiptune grit or advanced polyphonic textures, the zetaSID offers a modern, noise-free approach to the most famous sound chip of the 80s.
Overview
The zetaSID is a compact yet incredibly deep synthesizer voice. At its core, it utilizes a state-of-the-art SID emulation that remains faithful to the original 6581/8580 hardware while eliminating the noise floor typically associated with vintage chips.
What makes the zetaSID unique is its phybus connectivity. While a single module works as a powerful monophonic voice with CV/Gate control, you can chain up to 12 modules together to create a massive 6-voice stereo polyphonic synthesizer. It features an animated OLED display that provides real-time feedback of oscillators, filter curves, and arpeggiator patterns, making deep synthesis accessible in a small footprint.
Key Features
- Authentic SID Engine: Based on the MIDIbox SID v2 engine with high-quality, noise-free emulation.
- Dual Modes: * Lead Mode: 3 oscillators, selectable filters, and ring modulation.
- Drum Mode: Access up to 16 parallel lo-fi percussion instruments with 19 parametric algorithms.
- Massive Modulation: 6 LFOs, 2 envelopes, and an extensive 24×12 trigger matrix.
- Advanced Sequencing: Quad wave sequencers (tracker-style “wavetables”) for complex step-wise parameter modulation.
- Expandable Polyphony: Link modules via phybus for stereo operation, unison modes, or up to 6-voice polyphony.
- MIDI Integration: Full MIDI control (including CC, Mod Wheel, and Pitch Bend) when paired with the nexusMIDI expander.
- Storage: Save and load patches/sessions via a microSD card slot.
- Presets: Ships with 100 high-quality factory patches.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
| Width | 4 HP |
| Depth | 30 mm |
| Current Draw | +12V: 120mA / -12V: 15mA |
| I/O | 1V/Oct CV In, Gate In, Audio Out |
| Display | High-contrast Animated OLED |
| Expansion | phybus (backplane link) |
🛒 Buy at Perfect Circuit
You can purchase the midiphy zetaSID and the nexusMIDI expander at Perfect Circuit, the exclusive U.S. partner for midiphy.
Shop midiphy zetaSID at Perfect Circuit (Affiliate Link)
Pricing Summary
The zetaSID is competitively priced for the Eurorack market. Below are the estimated prices based on current exchange rates and retail listings:
| Currency | Price (MSRP/Retail) |
| USD | $199.00 |
| EURO | €199.00 |
| GBP | £169.00 |
| AUD | $315.00 |
Note: Prices may vary slightly based on local taxes, shipping, and distributor markups.
Price: $199
Get zetaSID at Perfect Circuit
Noise Lab Drum Designer
Drum Designer is a compact drum module built around a set of essential drum voices—each one with a personality of its own. Drawing inspiration from the legendary analog drum machines we all know and love, Drum Designer reinterprets those classic sounds through an entirely new circuit design, resulting in something familiar yet unmistakably original.
Built to thrive in any modular setup, simply feed it gates from your favorite sequencer—or any source capable of generating rhythmic patterns—and let Drum Designer deliver punchy, characterful drums with confidence. With a clean, self-explanatory interface made for fast, hands-on control, it’s ideal for both studio work and live performance.
Kick – A kick that really kicks. Heavier than you’d expect, designed to hold its ground on any dance-floor banger.
Snare – From short, light, and snappy to heavy, long, and dark. Equally at home in pop, techno, or the darkest goth band.
Hihat – Cuts straight through the mix. From ultra-snappy ticks to long, clangorous textures.
Metal / Cymbal – Ride the line wherever you want: from a light jazz ride to a full-on sheet of heavy metal.
Resonator – Not your ordinary drum voice. Designed for exploring external waveforms, this circuit features a resonant band-pass filter that easily self-oscillates. In addition to external sources, it can be driven by internal noise (left switch position) or a mix of three square waves (center position).
Clap – A classic hand clap, with an optional extended tail to add some extra “room” to the sound.
Each voice has its own dedicated output, normalled to a main mix output for flexible patching. All voices are triggered by gates (0–5 V) or trigger pulses.
Width: 18 HP
Depth: 26 mm
Current draw: 58 mA (+12 V) / 29 mA (-12 V)
Price: 370 EURO
Link: https://www.noiselab.se/ and Modular Grid
FlatSix Modular Shroud Of Touring
The world of generative synthesis has a new heavy hitter. FlatSix Modular has officially unveiled the Shroud of Turing, a performance-focused 16-bit shift register sequencer that takes the beloved “Turing Machine” concept and supercharges it with musicality and control.
Built on the flexible Nocturne Alchemy Platform, this 1U module is more than just a random voltage generator; it’s a bridge between the chaos of probability and the structure of intentional composition.
Overview: Chaos, Tamed
The Shroud of Turing is inspired by the classic Music Thing Modular Turing Machine but evolves the concept for the modern performer. At its core is a 16-bit shift register that generates evolving pseudo-random CV sequences. By turning the probability knob, you can sweep from completely random melodies to locked, repeating loops.
What truly sets this module apart is the built-in musical quantizer. Instead of needing external modules to force your random voltages into a key, the Shroud features an onboard tactile keyboard. You can define custom scales on the fly, ensuring every “happy accident” stays perfectly in tune.
Key Features
- 16-Bit Shift Register: The engine of generative sequences, offering everything from locked loops to evolving mutation.
- Integrated Quantizer: Use the onboard button keyboard to select notes and create custom scales.
- Scale Memory: Save and recall up to six custom scales instantly during a performance.
- Pattern Rotation: Nudge your sequence forward or backward to shift the downbeat or create variations without losing your pattern.
- Manual Bit Editing: Clear or set individual bits to manually sculpt the digital sequence.
- Variable Loop Length: Choose between 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 12, or 16 steps.
- Nocturne Alchemy Platform: One module, many identities. You can swap the firmware to transform it into other FlatSix modules like Slight of Hand or Arp of Darkness.
Technical Specifications & Summary
| Feature | Specification |
| Format | 1U (Intellijel compatible) |
| Width | 26 HP |
| Depth | 40mm (Skiff-friendly) |
| Current Draw | 40mA (+12V), 0mA (-12V) |
| Output Range | 0–4V (1 to 4 Octave Spread) |
| Firmware | Swappable via Web Loader |
Pricing Information
The Shroud of Turing is positioned as a high-value entry into the 1U ecosystem. Below is the estimated pricing based on current exchange rates and MSRP:
- USD: $225.00
- EURO: €215.00*
- GBP: £180.00*
- AUD: $345.00*(Note: Regional prices may vary based on local distributors and taxes.)
Ready to add some generative magic to your rack?
You can purchase the Shroud of Turing and other FlatSix Modular gear directly via Reverb.
References:
FlatSix Modular Official Product Page
Price Watch
Find below images and links to the items we showed for the price watch segment.
| Ensoniq ESQ-1 | https://ebay.us/1sFXoJ |
| Expressive E Osmose 49 | https://ebay.us/A0qz3E |
| Alesis Micron | https://ebay.us/BDEo8M |
| Red Sound System Dark Star | https://ebay.us/ww5L1u |
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 …..
Recent Comments