From shock to perfection: The iconic Yamaha GX-1 and CS-80
Discover incredible details of Yamaha’s groundbreaking GX-1 and the legendary CS-80 with exclusive photos – plus the Cherry Audio GX-80, blending both classics in a single software synth.
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The synthesizer – an introduction (Part 2)
In this second part of our synthesizer introduction, we explore how core building blocks, such as VCOs, filters, envelopes, and modulation, work – using classic instruments like the Jupiter-8, Alesis Andromeda, Crumar DS2, and Moog Sonic Six to illustrate key concepts.
Paul Schreiber and Module of the Month (MOTM)
Paul Schreiber is known for Synthesis Technology, but few may know how it all began. This detailed and personal history, told to Chris Meyer years before Paul's passing in March 2025, traces the story of MOTM – built on rare Curtis chips, audiophile dreams, and engineering passion.
Slow, wide, and beautiful: Synths that shine in ambient music
Looking to create lush pads, evolving textures, and immersive soundscapes? These synthesizers – ranging from expressive hybrids to analog and digital engines – are made for ambient music. Explore some inspiring hardware options for spacious, atmospheric sound design.
FM: Demystifying Exponential, Linear, and Through-Zero
Curious about FM in modular synthesis? This deep dive breaks down the three main types – exponential, linear, and through-zero FM – with hands-on patch tips, sound examples, and a demo video. Learn how each type shapes your tone, harmonics, and tuning.
Drift & Dwell: Eurorack Modules for Ambient Soundscapes
Whether you're building your first ambient patch or expanding a modular system for immersive textures and cinematic drones, these Eurorack modules are great tools for shaping sound into space.
From Grain to Glow: Standalone Devices for Ambient Soundscapes
Explore a curated selection of standalone devices perfect for ambient music – including granular synthesizers, loopers, and rich spatial effects. These tools help you transform simple sounds into immersive sonic landscapes.
Your first filter
Choosing your first Eurorack filter can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. This guide breaks down what filters do, how to understand terms like slope and topology, and offers beginner-friendly module suggestions to help you shape your sound and build your ideal modular rig.
Choosing patch cables: More than you ever wanted to know
Choosing the right patch cables is crucial for performance, portability, and reliability in modular synths. Learn what to look for in plugs, jackets, lengths, and materials — and how the right cable choices can make patching faster, cleaner, and more creative.
Choosing utility mixers for your modular system
Choosing the right utility mixers is key to unlocking creativity in modular synth patches. Learn why mixers matter, the difference between audio and CV mixing, and discover pro tips for bending the rules to create new sounds from your existing modules.
The patch symbols explained
Modular synthesis offers endless flexibility, but documenting patches can be tricky—especially when switching modules. A clear symbol system streamlines this process, using abstract icons and lines to represent functions and connections, making patches easier to share, understand, and recreate.
VCV Rack 2 patches
Dive into the world of PATCH & TWEAK with 50 hands-on patches from the book available to download and explore in the free VCV Rack software.