Inside Synthesis EP3: Introduction to Modular Synthesizers (2007)

Inside Synthesis - Introduction to Modular Synthesizers

YouTube Published on Apr 29, 2012 by insidesynthesis
Update: re-named 12/30/2018. Was Inside Synthesis - Intro to Modular Synthesizers w/ the Mattson Mini Modular.

A blast from the past. You might recognize the system used in this video as the Mattson Mini Modular prototype. Be sure to see my notes after the video description directly below in quotes for some interesting history.

"Episode 3 from the original series - a very basic introduction to modular synthesizers.

Correction #1 - I refer to modulating the amplitude of an audio signal with another audio rate signal as Ring Modulation (RM). I should have said Amplitude Modulation (AM).

RM is certainly related to AM, but there's a distinct difference. RM is implemented in such a way that the carrier and modulator's frequencies are eliminated from the signal. You only hear the sums and difference frequencies of the carrier and modulator, but not the original carrier and modulator frequencies.

Interestingly enough, the AC-coupled circuitry that does RM is ring shaped.

Correction #2 - Neither RM nor AM add harmonic frequencies. They add sidebands of inharmonic frequencies - hence the metallic and dissonant sound."

Some interesting history on the MMM used in this video:
Yes it was originally going to be cream colored, as introduced in this post. It turned out the printing on the more durable adhesive could not get the color right and rather than settle, George Mattson came out with the updated black color scheme. I actually had the option to go with the original color scheme or the more durable updated black with my Production Prototype #1. As you can see I went with the black. The first MMM post on MATRIXSYNTH? Here you go: Mmm.... People got pretty worked up with this one and the posts that followed (note these are in reverse order so scroll down to the bottom).

Also worth checking out:
Mattson Mini Modular MMM Debut @ PNW Synth DIY 2007
FIRST PRODUCTION MATTSON MINI MODULAR SYNTH DEMO MINUET IN A MINOR

Inside Synthesis - EP 4 - FM Synthesis Part 1 (2007)

Inside Synthesis - FM Synthesis, Part 1 YouTube Published on Apr 14, 2012 by insidesynthesis
Update: re-published & re-named 12/30/2019

"This is the original first installment of FM Synthesis. It presents a method of understanding FM for those who know subtractive synthesis."

Also see:
Intro to FM Synthesis
FM Synthesis Made Easy
New York School of Synthesis - Intro to Synthesis

And see the Synth Tutorials label at the bottom of this post for more.

Inside Synthesis - Korg Monotribe Review (with Mods)

YouTube Uploaded by insidesynthesis on Apr 8, 2012

"Here's my review of the Korg Monotribe. My version has some very useful mods, but the first half of the video focuses on the basic features."

monotribes on eBay

Inside Synthesis Teaser - New Series Coming In April

YouTube Uploaded by insidesynthesis on Mar 13, 2012

"The new series will have better audio, better and more clear visuals, and more detailed reviews of newly released synthesizers, focusing on providing plenty of sound examples.

I plan to make the reviews as a kind of virtual test drive of each new instrument. The instructional part of the series will finally finish the FM episode, and take an expanded look on modular synthesis."

Minimoog render in the video. If these will be anything like prior videos by insidesynthesis / williamroh these will be good.

Review: MoPho Analog Synthesizer by Dave Smith Instruments

YouTube via insidesynthesis
"Overview of the MoPho by DSI. All of the music and sounds in this review were created using the MoPho (including drums). Any multitracking used Apple Logic with minimal effects."

Sonic LAB: Prophet '08 Review Pt2

See the write-up on Sonic State. Note, Part 1 is now on YouTube, posted below.
Also see the source, Inside Synthesis for some interesting notes on what makes a good review.

Prophet '08 Review by Inside Synthesis - Part 1

YouTube via insidesynthesis
"This is part 1 of a 2 part series reviewing the Prophet 8 Analog Synthesizer created by Dave Smith Instruments."

MMM Video by inside synthesis

Remember the MMM Video posted earlier?

via William of inside synthesis in the comments of that post:
"I posted a much high quality version at insidesynthesis.com, since the YouTube compression hardly does it justice.

Only delay on the lead bits, and a highpass on the hihat were used. No chorusing, phasing, reverb, or compression/EQ, so it's overall a pretty raw sound.

I double-tracked the lead and bass parts for stereo width.

I'll make a more modern, less 80's song later. Assuming I have time - I'm only borrowing the prototype for a few days."

There is also a great shot of George and William in the post. Be sure to check it out.

Mattson Mini Modular MMM Debut @ PNW Synth DIY 2007

YouTube via redmartian.

"This is a little montage of footage shot at the PNW Synth DIY in Renton, WA. The music was composed entirely on the MMM by William Horne of inside synthesis aka williamroh."

Update via William in the comments: "I posted a much high quality version at http://insidesynthesis.com, since the YouTube compression hardly does it justice.

Only delay on the lead bits, and a highpass on the hihat were used. No chorusing, phasing, reverb, or compression/EQ, so it's overall a pretty raw sound.

I double-tracked the lead and bass parts for stereo width.

I'll make a more modern, less 80's song later. Assuming I have time - I'm only borrowing the prototype for a few days."

Thre is also a great shot of George and William in the post. Be sure to check it out.