Control Voltage Modular Synth Fair 2013

A few months back HavestWorks hosted a fun gathering called Control Voltage down at South Street Seaport. I was there on that incredibly HOT day to take in some of the sights, sounds and synths on offer from various designers, and performers - in video form via my iPhone

Unfortunately I didn't get to attend the performances later that night as I had work very early the next morn. Still, it was cool to check out. Here's a quick walkthrough of what was on offer - apologies for those I left out or synth manufacturers I couldn't recall or didn't know the names of. Corrections are always encouraged(!).

HypnoToad.

It's what you need.

Röyksopp - The Girl And The Robot

Contrary to what some friends, co-workers, and lovers may believe - I actually DO enjoy good pop songs. Quite a few, actually. I'm just very particular about what turns me on. Don't know how I missed this in 2009(!). The production is FLAWLESS. Like a classic Giorgio Moroder track - with hooky vocals, a fun theme, and gorgeously crafted synth-lines. The simple video stars Robyn, who looks as great as she sounds. I'd kill to hear sharp pop tracks like THIS on the dance-floor or at a bar. One can always dream...

I'm in love with a robot... And this track.

BugBrand and Squeely Noise Machines

I love devices that make odd sounds - even irritating ones by most standards... but I like 'em even more if they're portable and run on batteries and have non-standard controller options.

BugBrand is a seriously cool company. Check out their stuff - it's way crazy. I made a quick video-improv of their Postcard Weevil - but recently purchased the more advanced version as well.

If chaos, portable devices and odd sounds fascinate you, then check out Tom Bug's site and blog. Tell him 'antfactor' sent you there. WARNING: When he releases new devices they sell out SUPER FAST. He also makes killer sound modular gear as well. Amazing stuff... I want them all.





He even sent me this cool signed business card. Thanks Tom - you're stuff is amazing, and so are you.

copepod video - Anytime, Really.

Starting to teach myself Final Cut Pro X. This is a quick video I did for one of my audio improvisations as copepod. Enjoy. Stay tuned: more fleshed out music videos on the way...

arpeggiators...

For those that don't know... Arpeggiators are THE BOMB! Few things are quicker, more fun, or easy than holding down some keys and having 'instant melodies' come flying out of one's speakers. My first synth had an arpeggiator and it was intoxicatingly good fun! Any time I have a synth without one I often feel it's missing something essential. Change the keys randomly and you get all kinds of cool stuff you'd never play on your own.

There are tons of cool arpeggiators out there - but here's a really nice one in VST form for $12 US called ARPG8R.

ARPG8R - VSTi MIDI Arpeggiator.

I'm considering getting this. I really wish the developers of NanoStudio would add one to their devices - it would make their software indispensable on the go! Most of my hardware synths had them and I practically consider it an essential tool.

What do you think?

Synths as Art

Another great example showing that electronic instrument design can be as timeless, interesting and beautiful to hear, see, and play as their acoustic relatives.

http://www.dewanatron.com/instruments.php?page=wallgin