Back in stock: All genres

Review: Jeru The Damaja doesn't always get namechecked as readily as the likes of Gang Starr, but he's just as vital a part of the East Coast rap legacy. 1996 album Wrath Of The Math is a totem of conscious hip-hop, with Premier on the beats and Jeru showing off exactly what he can do on the mic. Now 45 Kings are taking measures to remind people how good this record is by picking two of the album's finest cuts and giving them a trip out on 7". 'Ya Playing Yaself' is an impossibly funky Preemo groove underpinned by a righteously cheeky b-line, while 'Scientifical Madness' finds The Damaja breaking down societal ills with devastating dexterity.

Review: 541 is in the middle of a big run of spacial double albums that they say are made up of "nothing but classix" and we're inclined to agree. This eighth volume of 12 Inch Lovers is another bumper collection of big dance sounds from the 90s to the present day by plenty of names you will likely know, from Erick Morillo to Michael Gray to Robin S to Bakermat. There is string-laced swing-house to start with, vocal anthems like 'Show Me Love' to finish with and main stage house bangers and feel-good festival favourites in between.

Review: The present face of IDM is here heard occupied by dream duo D'Arcangelo and Karsten Plum, whose latest joint effort for Acid Avengers bowls us over with its acid tweezings, pangs, twingings, twangs, thrums and flits-past. The pH scale skyrockets to the point of insanity on Pflum's side, with 'Hornfish Acid' and 'Aroe Acid' jointly corroding the full length of the Earth's core with their snippy but incisive sizzles and 'ows, until we reach a forbidden underworld uncannily reminiscent of Oz - except the faces of the protagonists are horribly twisted into a yellow, illegal-raved rictuses. D'Arcangelo's 'Gawain' does equally as much with its eerie sprung-verbed chroma-chords and muted but moving melodies; so too does 'Walker Two' raise the tempo to silly speeds, coming as a veritable velociraptor of Druqks-y breaks and drill bits, all let loose from the barrel at a surely illegal rate of fire.

Review: British soul singer Dee C Lee started her career singing backup for Wham and the Style Council, before embarking on a solo career that included an early release on Mo Wax. By the late 90s, she'd pretty much stepped back from music though - making this new album for Acid Jazz a genuine surprise (it's her first new release for over a quarter of a century). It's rather good, too, with Lee's sublime and emotion-rich vocals soaring above 'heritage soul' style tracks that variously offer nods to bossa-nova ('Don't Forget About Love'), disco/jazz-funk fusion ('Be There In The Morning', with its excellent horns and fluttering flutes), and Motown-style stompers (the uplifting excellence of 'Walk Away').

Review: Beneath the grit and, err, grime of UK MC output, there's a highly fertile and imaginative artsy scene making underground stars in cities like London and Manchester. Names like Blackhaine, Icebox Violet, and Novelist have long-since flown flags - to various extents - for experimental tracks that marry rhymes, poetry, abstract musicality and heavy broken beats.

Coby Sey is another for that list, and like the rest, as he explains on 'Permeated Secrets', he "don't care if you like my work". Simply put, these sounds aren't for everyone, they were never intended to be. Instead, they showcase a staunchly British take on urban observation, packed with melancholy, hints of rave, and a love for exploring outsider ends of established art forms - often winding up in places few have been before.

Notes: Save space in your rack with stackable cables.

These are the newer shorter stackable Eurorack Patch Cables. Patching is more stable and makes it easier to get a lid on that performance case.

One end of the cable has a male and female jack, the other end as just a male connector. They come in sets of 5 cables.

Available in 6in (15cm), 12in (30cm), 18in (45cm), and 24in (60cm).

Notes: Save space in your rack with stackable cables.

These are the newer shorter stackable Eurorack Patch Cables. Patching is more stable and makes it easier to get a lid on that performance case.

One end of the cable has a male and female jack, the other end as just a male connector. They come in sets of 5 cables.

Available in 6in (15cm), 12in (30cm), 18in (45cm), and 24in (60cm).

Notes: These rack screws for Eurorack can be screwed by hand for quick changes, or use a standard Phillips head screw driver.

Each Special Size M2.5 X 8mm stainless steel screw comes with a black nylon washer in a silver tin.

Notes: These rack screws for Eurorack can be screwed by hand for quick changes, or use a standard Phillips head screw driver.

Each Standard Size M3 X 8mm black steel screw comes with a black nylon washer in a gold tin.

Review: With both tracks now coming out for the first time on 7" vinyl, the 'Liquid Love' and 'What's The T?' 7" single is a must get for all Roy Ayers fans and serious music collectors, not least as 2023 witnesses Roy's final ever tour of live dates. This release is a fitting tribute to the career of one of the most influential musicians in global Black music history and each track represents his virtuosity as a vibesman and his versatility across genres. 'Liquid Love' is taken from the 2015 BBE released album of Roy's unreleased material, Virgin Ubiquity II and is a wicked mid-tempo track where Roy's vibraphone complements an amazing female vocal arrangement to create harmonies and melody over a tough-as-you-like breakbeat, bassline and keyboard riff.

Review: The talented Greek duo Artificial DRM - already renowned for their contributions to Koslif, De Stijl and Semantica Records - come through for the sixth Alpengluhen release. 'Enigma' is a curious experimental, IDM and ambient release, neither settling for out-and-out categorisability nor giving up the danceable ends of things and happily resting in the crosstalk between genres. All circling around similar tempi but with some variation therein, these four unnamed tracks reveal themselves, together with their textural details, only as slowly as a desert landscape might reveal itself to a parched wanderer; only through somatic repetitions, such as endless walking, panting, and squinting - compare these to deep listening and/or uninterrupted turntable playing - might we make out the mirages or fata morgana through the horizontal heat haze.

Notes: Euphoric sound with digital clarity and analogue richness from Rupert Neve Designs transformer

The euphonia produces a euphoric sound with the clarity of digital and the richness of analogue that's never been heard from a DJ mixer before.

To deliver a clearer sound quality that accurately reproduces the expression of the music, the euphonia uses high-quality 32-bit A/D and D/A converters as well as 96kHz/64bit floating point mixing processing operations in the DSP, utilizing the digital signal processing technology AlphaTheta has developed over many years.

All sound coming out of the euphonia passes through a transformer circuit co-designed by AlphaTheta and Rupert Neve Designs, the legendary makers of outstanding analogue audio circuitry and mixing desks revered by artists and sound engineers around the world. This transformer circuit, tuned specifically for the euphonia, adds harmonics to the music and creates a glossy and energetic sound that's smoother for mixing. Low frequencies such as kicks and bass are more stable and punchy, mid frequencies like vocals and instruments have more presence and gloss, and high frequencies such as hi-hats sound silky and natural. The transformer breaks down the barrier between vintage live and modern electric sounds, making mixing easier and surprisingly natural, as if recordings in different styles were originally one piece of music.

Specially developed rotary fader makes you feel one with the music

When you touch the faders on the euphonia, you won't want to let go. To enhance its intuitive mixing experience, the unit is loaded with rotary faders that feature a brand-new carefully developed design to give you the feeling that you and the mixer are one. After extensive testing, the perfect knob sizes were chosen, with an elastomer applied to the outer circumference of each to ensure a comfortable and reliable grip as well as a high level of vibration absorption.

The uniquely developed mechanism for the faders also benefits from optimum weighting. You'll notice a difference in the feel of the knobs when you turn them at different speeds, as a smooth load is applied when you turn a knob slowly for delicate fine-tuning and a limited load level is applied when you turn a knob quickly to instantly reach your intended volume level. And the fader volume curves have been optimized through feedback from numerous DJs, enabling smooth and natural mixing without equalizing, so you can concentrate on volume control. This innovative fader allows for musical expression that will move your audience and enhance your performance.

Energy Visualizer for understanding overall sound at first glance

Get an instant visual grasp of the status of your mix and the balance of track volume levels by glancing at the euphonia's Energy Visualizer. Conventional VU meters only have 1 needle meter, making it difficult for DJs to grasp multiple channel levels at the same time. But the euphonia's uniquely developed Mix Level Meter features a needle meter for each channel so you can visually check the levels for all channels and mix smoothly while keeping the groove going. You can even keep an eye on the balance of the master output by looking at the Spectrum Analyzer, which helps you keep your mixes sounding consistent and smooth, even in a long set, as you "watch" the euphonia's output and adjust it to create your perfect sound.

Next-generation 3Band Master Isolator that transforms sensibility into sound at your will

Highest-quality isolator

The size of the isolator knobs is perfect for rapid turns from centre to maximum or minimum, and the torque load is perfectly balanced for both quick operation and fine sound quality adjustment, with a luxurious feel that's not too light. The cut-off frequency and slope are set to control and highlight the kick, melody, and rhythm bands in a natural yet sharp manner.

Brand-new Boost Send for one-handed effects application

Add one of the built-in Send Effects, or an effect from an external unit, to the sound of any of the master isolator frequency bands.

Specifications

Max. external dimensions (W × D × H): 429.2 × 331.0 × 119.9 mm / 16.90" × 13.03" x 4.72"
Main unit weight: 9.5 kg / 20.94 lbs.
Frequency response: 20 Hz - 40 kHz (LINE)
S/N Ratio: 107 dB (USB, DIGITAL IN)
88 dB (PHONO)
105 dB (LINE)
79 dB (MIC)
Power requirements: AC 110 V - 240 V, 50 Hz / 60 Hz
Power consumption: 43 W
Accessories: Power cord
Warranty (for some regions)
Quick start guide
Precautions for use

Compatible software:
rekordbox
Serato DJ Pro

Terminals

Inputs:
DIGITAL IN × 4 (coaxial)
LINE × 4 (RCA)
PHONO × 4 (RCA)
MIC x 1 (XLR & 1/4" TRS jack)

Outputs:
MASTER × 1 (XLR)
BOOTH × 1 (1/4" TRS jack)
REC × 1 (RCA)
PHONES × 2 (1/4" stereo phone jack, 3.5 mm stereo mini jack)
USB: USB Type-C × 1

Others:
SEND × 2 (1/4" TS jack)
RETURN × 2 (1/4" TS jack)

Review: A unique political story told in 20 chapters, Angola 2 Soundtrack delves deep into the nine year history of recorded music culture that was born out of the live music oppression set in place by Portuguese rule. Between three labels over 800 recordings were released during this fertile period, each one reflecting Angolan folk and distinctive Latin influences. And these are 20 of the most creative highlights. From the frenetic guitar rhythms and harmonic chants of "Mabele" to the psychedelic highlife shimmers of "Avante Juventude" via the insistent, street-bound sermon of "Snipes", this collection is entrenched in a rich musical history. Complete with well researched booklet and powerful imagery, it's an immaculate lesson in modern music history.

Review: Cuba-meets-Cameroon-via-Guinea-and-Senegal, the roots of this African-adopted Cuban sound are as rich, unique and exciting as Amara Toure's tale itself. After years of club performing in Dakar, Amara and his Black & White Ensemble in the late '60s and proceeded to release 10 songs during the '70s. Here, for the first time ever, all of these recordings are united on this immaculately presented collection. From the cobble-kicking percussive Cuban heels and emphatic harmonies of "Fatou" to the deep yearning crooning blues of "N'ga Digne M'be" and the spacey, out-of-this-world guitars and jazzy trumpet lead of "N'Niyo", there's something very special and unique about this collection. With a heart that beats in Africa but a soul that shines with Cuban fire, as Analogue Africa state themselves... It's only taken 10 songs for Amara to become a legend. Very few artists can claim this feat.

Review: After 12 years in the making one can only imagine how excited (and impatient) we are to finally announce the release of "Saturno 2000", the 34th compilation in our Analog Africa's regular serie. For this particular project we've delved deep into the scene of the Mexican's sonideros (sound-system operators) to present the "Rebajada" movement they've created using locally made pitch controls, speakers and sound effects.

Review: Following our 70s Peruvian cumbia compilation by Ranil last year, we decided to return to Latin America to highlight the work of one of Peru's undisputed masters of the electric guitar: Manzanita. This 13th release in our Limited Dance Edition Series includes 14 mostly instrumental compositions of electrifying Peruvian cumbia and guaracha. Manzanita's unique guitar lines rest on confident foundations that shifts gears effortlessly.

Review: Sonido Verde De Moyobamba feature on the second volume of Analog Africa's Sonic Expedition into the Peruvian Amazon, as well as being behind this brilliant new collection which drops on the same day from the same label. It is a coming together of eight super-rare cuts of guitar and organ inventiveness taken from the five albums the band recorded between 1981 and 1987 for Discos Universal. You would beard pushed to find any Cumbia from the Peruvian jungle that hits as hard as this with its incessant rhythms, mad acoustic guitars and bustling percussion.

Review: This is a new record of unearthed delights by Leon Keita, a longtime singer and multi-instrumentalist from Mali. On the eponymous 'Leon Keita', we hear Malian music fused with sensibilities from Sudan-Guinea and Burkina Faso, with modern pop and electronic influences, impeccably played in a smattering of crisp guitars, love-sung lyrics and laboured rhythms. All laid to a fresh pressing, the A-side hears three rather relaxed beauties, while the B moves into more idealistic and hedonic directions, not least the conclusive 'Dakan Sate, Korotoumi'. Brought back to our attention by Analog Africa, 'Leon Keita' serves yet another top serving and reminder of Mandingue culture, the influence of which stretches across the world; 'Dalaka' was a recent hit, making it as far as the Colombian coast.

Review: As part of Atlantic Records' 75th Anniversary celebration, the label has launched an extensive year-long vinyl series featuring 90 releases spanning the entire history of the company, from its earliest days until the present. Of these emerges this latest reissue of Crosby, Stills & Nash's self-titled debut album, first released on the label all the way back in 1969. The album features some of CSN's most well known and iconic songs; 'Suite: Judy Blue Eyes,' 'Marrakesh Express,' 'Guinnevere,' 'Wooden Ships,' 'Helplessly Hoping' and 'Long Time Gone.' This album saw a shift in sound to what was popular at the time - blues based rock - opting for a more folk rock, and sometimes jazz-based sound. It would lay the foundations for the California Sound that would be popularised out of Laurel Canyon in the '70s. Artists such as The Eagles, Jackson Browne and Fleetwood Mac would take inspiration from the sound of this record.

Review: Camae Ayewa AKA Moor Mother has long talked about wanting to work with an orchestra, applying her verbal Afro-futurism and free-jazz experimentation to the classical domain. She recently did just that, delivering a grandiose live interpretation of her ninth album, The Great Bailout, alongside the London Contemporary Orchestra. It makes perfect sense: while the album itself is not fully orchestrated, it's a conceptual work dissecting the British slave trade, slavery and colonialism. Musically, there are two central focal points: her spoken word vocals and the beautiful singing of Lonnie Haley. These two vital voices weave in and out of sound worlds rooted in dark ambient, lo-fi hip-hop beats, free jazz instrumentation, out-there samples and clandestine aural textures. It's naturally raw, moody and weighty, but more importantly it's also a genuine masterpiece that deserves your attention.

Notes: Compact phono stage to boost turntable output to line level. Add turntable inputs or upgrade the sound of your DJ mixer. Adjustable capacitance and gain to suit a range of cartridges.

Supplier's notes:
The DJ PRE II acts as an interface between your turntable and your audio recording/playback system. The analog input capacitance can be switched between 100pF and 200pF to optimize your phono cartridge response. A switchable low cut filter removes turntable rumble while leaving the audio pristine. The front gain trim control and signal/clip LED allow you to optimize the preamp's gain for a wide range of input sources. The built-in low noise phono preamp circuitry is highly accurate and precisely conforms to the RIAA standard. The line output jacks are low impedance and can be used with any sound card. Housed in an all aluminum black anodized case, the DJ PRE II can be powered by a wide variety of external supplies. If you need to amplify and EQ your vinyl records to interface with your audio workstation, sound card, home stereo system or main monitor system, the DJ PRE II gives you flawless audio reproduction in a rugged and reliable package.

Review: Archeo Recordings bring us some more Balearic Italian treasure here with some gold initially recorded in Bologna almost two decades ago. It's a collaboration between friends Bottin and Lucio Dalla that has never before been on vinyl. 'Lunedi Cinema' was an ident that played before Monday night movies on of one of the main Italian TV channels for many years. This electronic version includes the Martedi Mix from 2008, a Minibar Bonus Track and also a mix by pioneering Italian dream house dons Leo Mas & Fabrice with a Bottin dub sealing the deal. It's a superb package of real Italo music history.

Notes: ***B-STOCK: Box damaged, product in perfect working order***


Keyboard meets sequencing in Arturia's all-round controller. USB, MIDI, CV and analogue clock compatibility make this 64-step polyphonic sequencer a true all-rounder. Great value.

Supplier's Notes:
KeyStep 37 goes beyond an easy-to-use 64-step sequencer, arpeggiator and MIDI keyboard. It's responsive, dynamic, expanded in every direction to encourage musical exploration - the controller that's built to help write music and also includes Ableton Live Lite, making it a complete music production starter kit, as well as appealing to veteran musicians. Like KeyStep and KeyStep Pro before it, KeyStep 37 offers unique features not found in any other product.

The familiar KeyStep formula, expanded. KeyStep 37 features a velocity-sensitive 37-note keybed, complete with aftertouch and RGB LED feedback, while remaining lightweight and compact.

At the center of the control panel, you'll find 4 new knobs with an LED screen, giving you instant access to inspiring new expressive tools and MIDI tweaking - total creative control.

The new controls unlock KeyStep 37's unique & enhanced Chord mode. Choose from 12 chord types, an array of strum effects, and spread the voices out into complex velocity-sensitive parts that respond like a stringed instrument.

Map out KeyStep 37's 3-octave keyboard range with a scale of your choice using Scale mode. Any key you play will automatically quantize to the nearest note in the chosen scale.

Tap into the inner workings of your MIDI hardware and software with assignable 16 MIDI CC pa-rameters across 4 switchable banks. Use the 4 new controls to tweak settings on the fly for dy-namic performances.

The core of your setup:

KeyStep 37 is designed to be put in control. An accessible interface, a compact design and com-prehensive connectivity make it the perfect centerpiece for your rig - whatever your needs.

Hook up your synth hardware with MIDI in/out. Control your favorite VST instruments with MIDI over USB. Use CV pitch, gate and mod connections for modular integration. Analog sync in/out keeps everything in time without hassle. The best bit? Use it all at the same time.

Included is a free copy of Ableton Live Lite, an accessible music-making suite for your Mac or PC. Register KeyStep 37 for your free download and get creative right out the box - let the music flow freely.

Notes: Incredible value as always from the latest version of Arturia's Essential 88-key MIDI controller. Pads, faders, rotaries and a large LCD screen. Excellent integration with DAWs and the included Analog Lab V plugin.

Supplier's Notes:
Control your DAW, play with MIDI hardware, and get hands-on with your own style of music-making with KeyLab Essential mk3 88. This full-range keyboard controller removes barriers and makes creativity simple, with expressive semi-weighted keys, idea-sparking creative functions, and the most inspiring music software included as standard.

The streamlined piano range keyboard

Expand your musical horizons with a semi-weighted 88-note keyboard that removes barriers and makes your creative life easier. From studio to stage, DAW to MIDI hardware, KeyLab Essential 88 mk3 keeps things simple so you can focus on your music with full piano-range expressivity.

Your essential ingredients for creativity

KeyLab Essential provides an array of useful & intuitive controls that'll get the job done. Enjoy a comfy keybed, tactile faders/encoders/pads, and thoughtful layout that'll make sense for your setup. Enjoy a hands-on instrument experience balanced with software flexibility.

The best DAW integration

Get creative right out the box with KeyLab Essential's custom DAW scripts, bringing pre-mapped controls into your workflow with any major DAW. Not only that, but the KeyLab Essential controls work seamlessly with Analog Lab V, the included sound anthology plugin - letting you freely explore thousands of sounds, old and new.

Your musical workhorse

For when you want to get experimental, find a new sound, or just need a bit of extra inspiration, KeyLab Essential has a few tricks up its sleeve. Create fun ever-changing melodies with the Arpeggiator, weave rich chord voicings with Chord play, and always stay in key thanks to Scale mode.

What's new compared to the previous version?

A bigger display with 4 contextual buttons
5 dedicated DAW scripts, plus MCU & HUI protocols, for controlling any DAW
Enhanced integration with Arturia Software
Creative features: Scale mode, Chord Play, Arpeggiator (with presets), Hold function
2 Pad Banks (for finger drumming, clip launching, or User configuration)
Bigger software bundle (Analog Lab V, Ableton Live Lite, NI The Gentleman, UVI
Model D, Loopcloud & Melodics)
Multi-purpose pedal input (Sustain, Footswitch or Expression)
USB-C
Eco-designed

Included Software

You'll also get 6 titles giving you everything you need to make music your own way - here's

What's included:
Analog Lab V software with 2000 synth & keyboard sounds
Ableton Live Lite
UVI Model D & Native Instruments The Gentleman pianos
Loopcloud subscription
Melodics subscription

Box content
Quick Start
Registration card
USB Cable (C/A)

Review: Heads will know 'As We Enter' as the name of the Breakage tune that set the stage for many more things halftime to come - not to mention a Damian Marley & Nas song released around the same time - so we're more than pleased to learn that one next-gen producer has taken on the name as an alias. However, something in the aura of this release tells us this artist is no debutante; 'Lover To Lover' brings wubbing Reesebound rollage and summery fluting funk together in quick step, with complementary numbers 'So Gone', 'Come Again' and 'Shifting Gears' flaunting a respect for the many different facets of drum & bass, from techstep to early jump-up. This one gets more and more sinister as it progresses; despite the cover, whatever's entered the room feels more elephant than pigeon.

Review: Anthony Georges Patrice's Ausblick label has trod a fine path over the course of its first five releases and the good work continues on its sixth outing which is a new various artists affair. It is Berlin based Ephem who kicks off with 'Dizzy' and all its bumpy beast and raw perc, then Koln's Hidden Sequence follows with 'Optical Drive' that is more stripped back and powered by warming sub bass. Anthony Georges Patrice himself then completes the hat trick with 'Easy To Love' (Tunnel Vision Mix) which over ten sublime minutes brings some more airy, double doit flavoured and has already been getting plays from Mosaic boss Steve O'Sullivan.

Review: Jeff Mills for Axis Records. Are there any more exciting words for fans of Detroit techno? Here The Wizard assumes his MIllsart alias and once again sets off to explore extra terrestrial soundscapes. The tempo here is slower than under his own name, leaving more space for the sci-fi details and cosmic motifs to really sink in. The beats roll deep, too, with gentle percussive clatter dropped in from above. In the case of 'Breaker Breaker One Nine' the sound is almost Glenn Underground-esque. It is the EP highlight, though the glistening 'The Upside Down' is not far behind.

Notes: Inamp is a dual pre-amp in just 4 HPs. Featuring 6,3 Jacks inputs as well as Minijacks.

Both inputs are summed so you can use them at the same time as an input mixer.

The unit is designed to amplify up to x20 the input signal, allowing to amplify most of the music machines out there (Domestic line levels) as well as some guitars (Humbucker-like pickups and so).

The first channel is normalled to second one in series, so it's possible to have two stages of amplification or two separate ones.

Notes: Bananuts are anodized aluminium custom minijack nuts, following Buchla/Serge colouring code: Blue, purple, red, orange, yellow, white, green and black. Perfect lovely thingies to pimp your modular, code your inputs and outputs with colours or just give a touch of beauty to your favourite gear!

Notes: Bananuts are anodized aluminium custom minijack nuts, following Buchla/Serge colouring code: Blue, purple, red, orange, yellow, white, green and black. Perfect lovely thingies to pimp your modular, code your inputs and outputs with colours or just give a touch of beauty to your favourite gear!

Notes: Bananuts are anodized aluminium custom minijack nuts, following Buchla/Serge colouring code: Blue, purple, red, orange, yellow, white, green and black. Perfect lovely thingies to pimp your modular, code your inputs and outputs with colours or just give a touch of beauty to your favourite gear!

Notes: Bananuts are anodized aluminium custom minijack nuts, following Buchla/Serge colouring code: Blue, purple, red, orange, yellow, white, green and black. Perfect lovely thingies to pimp your modular, code your inputs and outputs with colours or just give a touch of beauty to your favourite gear!

Notes: The EVEN VCO is a voltage-controlled oscillator that offers stability and high precision tuning over 10 octaves. A redesigned temperature compensation circuit maintains the oscillator stable against voltage and temperature drops.

Specifications:

Current needs: +12V: 36mA, -12V: 26mA
Width: 8 HP
Depth: 22mm, (28mm DIY) including power connector
Aluminium, heat-treated front panel.
Designed, kits prepared and completed modules assembled in Barcelona.

Notes: The Befaco Synth Duster is a super soft brush to keep your modular synth and audio equipment far away from dust.

Notes: STMix is a four-channel stereo mixer in 28hp and 1U format. It can work independently or as an expansion of Befaco's Hexmix module via the six-pin connector located in the back. The module is designed under the Intellijel 1U format.

Features

Four channels stereo inputs with volume control.
AC Coupled inputs to improve audio performance.
Output clipping LED indicators.
Connector at the back to interface with the Hexmix module.
1U Intellijel format

Specs:

Current needs: +12V: 30mA, -12V: 30mA
Width: 28 HP
Depth: 20mm (including power connector)
Aluminium, heat-treated front panel
Designed, kits prepared and completed modules assembled in Barcelona

Notes: Really clever stuff here. The Octaves VCO takes an additive approach, layering harmonics on top of a fundamental frequency to create complex tones. Control the six bands via CV to adjust the harmonic content.

Supplier's Notes:
A harsh and funky take of an additive Oscillator.

Pile up multiplications of your frequency to get a lo-fi-retro wall of squared sound!

You get six doubled frequency pulses, or octaves, with common PWM and volume control for each of them.

The output of each is cascaded to the next one, so you can either have one output with all frequencies or break the chain and get several sums and modulate each independently!

Features
Six bands, multiple of the base frequency.
Square wave oscillator with Octaves selector PWM control and sync.
Range control for Tune pot.
Volume CV control and individual output for each band
Cascaded summing outputs.

Specifications
Current needs: +12V: 110mA, -12V: 84mA
Width: 12 HP
Depth: 22mm (assembled and DIY), including power connector
Aluminium, heat-treated front panel
Designed, kits prepared and completed modules assembled in Barcelona

Review: 
The vocalist on this one sure does sound like a celebrated British pop vocalist. And the hints in the mystic text accompanying it certainly don't lessen that feeling. Either way, her textured tones on 'The First Narcissus' are weaved into a gritty, low slung groove that has crashing claps and a dirty baseline that wouldn't sound out of place in the Berghain basement. On the flip, 'Jealous Groove' is a punchy but clipped disco beat with a sense of urgency and streetwise swagger that sounds true fresh. West End Records mysterious Bitter End off-shoot strikes again with this one.

Review: Gregory Porter's beautifully buttery baritone has won him plenty of acclaim, fans, and Grammy nominations. How up to his sixth album, the jazz and soul singer is back to uplift you with his heart-felt, joyful celebrations. Of course, the whole affair is perfectly smooth and seductive, but also mighty powerful. Tracks like "Faith in Love" are string laced and upbeat songs to get a wedding crowd in a spin, "Long List Of Troubles" is a dramatic, dynamic jazz anthem and "Modern Day Apprentice" is a trend, stripped back song from, and to, the heart. This is another record that spans the ages in some style.

Review: Already on their seventh studio album, synth-pop kings Everything Everything return to the fore with Mountainhead, a concept album critiquing modern-day zealotry, economic warfare, and narcissism, centring on the idea of mirrors at the top and snakes at the bottom. A primeval analogy for the modern psychic climate in fourteen-track form, the topic at hand certainly sounds ominous; but the music is nonetheless always as enjoyable as EE's music usually permits. In contrast to prior albums Man Alive and Raw Data Feel, both of which made rigorous use of Artificial Intelligence to generate and effect sound, Mountainhead is deliberately processing-shy, with the band publicly avowing their not using any plugins and effects. Whether this represents an appeal by the band for their audience to downshift and embrace a less future-obsessive life, you be the judge. A powerful metaphor for the economic warfare of everyday life, Mountainhead is an urgent message wrapped in a chart-topper.

Review: Anoushka Shankar's Chapter II: How Dark It Is Before Dawn is a riveting sonic journey that seamlessly blends eastern and western musical sensibilities. From the rocking piano motifs of 'Pacifica' to the dreamy textures of 'Offering' and the mystical ambiance of 'Below the Surface,' each track unveils layers of evocative dreamscapes. Shankar's sitar weaves enchanting melodies, complemented by the soothing sounds of waves and voices. The album's fusion of instruments and tonalities creates a healing experience, inviting listeners to relax and float downstream. With its profound depth and beauty, Chapter II transcends mere background music, resonating as a genuine artistic expression. Anoushka Shankar offers a compelling soundtrack for introspection and tranquility.

Review: Hey Cabrera! brings the heat with Italo Void, a vibrant fusion of electro disco, Italo, and house that embodies the essence of summer. Clean drum patterns lay the foundation, complemented by captivating melodies that shimmer throughout the track. Lauer's remix adds an analogue touch with piano keys, infusing a sense of late-night romance. On the flip side, 'Forelskelse' transports listeners to Scandinavia, blending disco and house elements to create an uplifting atmosphere filled with emotive energy. David Bay's remix of 'Forelskelse' offers a measured yet addictive rendition, allowing the instruments to shine while retaining the essence of the original. Together, these tracks comprise a mesmerising soundtrack for the approaching summer season, promising nights filled with dancefloor joy and unexplored passions.

Notes: The Benchmark in Guitar Distortion

The DS-1 Distortion is a true icon in the world of guitar effects. Introduced in 1978, BOSS's first distortion pedal defined a bold new sound, delivering hard-edged attack and smooth sustain that's been a staple of players for generations. The DS-1 is the top-selling BOSS compact pedal ever, and its original, unchanged design continues to inspire the creation of great music everywhere. The classic DS-1 tone is behind the signature sounds of numerous rock legends, and is ready to fuel your own signature sound today.

Genre-Defining Distortion

Before the DS-1, most distortion pedals produced harsh, buzzy tones and muddy sound at high gain settings. In 1978, BOSS engineers changed all that by developing a unique distortion circuit for the DS-1 that produces tight, hard-edged gain with rich harmonics while retaining the unique characteristics of different guitars and playing techniques. Hard rock, metal, and punk styles began to flourish in the '70s and '80s, and the DS-1's tone had a defining influence on these genres. That trend has endured through multiple generations, and players around the world continue to seek out the classic DS-1 sound.

Gain from Mild to Heavy

From its modest three-knob interface, many different sound colours can be coaxed from the DS-1. Its pioneering two-stage circuit incorporates both transistor and op-amp gain stages. This approach is critical to the DS-1's characteristic low-frequency fullness, which is loved by guitarists that play heavy music genres. The distortion knob offers an extremely wide range, from a mild boost for driving amps and pedals to full-throttle gain for monster rock riffs.

Powerful Tone Shaping

Unlike typical tone controls that only cut highs, the DS-1's tone circuit features an innovative design that offers far more range. Turning the knob clockwise increases highs and decreases lows, while going counter-clockwise has the opposite effect. This lets you dial in everything from tight, cutting rhythm sounds to smooth, fat lead voices. The tone control is particularly effective for maintaining low-end definition when using the DS-1 as a booster with vintage-style amps, which often sound muddy when driven with other distortion pedals.

Nominal Input Level-20 dBu
Input Impedance: 1 M ohm
Nominal Output Level-20 dBu
Output Impedance: 1 k ohm
Recommended Load Impedance: 10 k ohms or greater
Controls: Pedal switch, TONE knob, LEVEL knob, DIST knob
Indicator: CHECK indicator (Used for indication of check battery)
Connectors:
INPUT jack: 1/4-inch phone type
OUTPUT jack: 1/4-inch phone type
DC IN jack
Power Supply:
Alkaline battery (9 V, 6LR61) or Carbon-zinc battery (9 V, 6F22)
AC adaptor (PSA series: sold separately)
Current Draw10 mA

Expected battery life under continuous use:
Carbon: Approx. 50 hours
Alkaline: Approx. 80 hours
* These figures will vary depending on the actual conditions of use.
Accessories: Leaflet ("USING THE UNIT SAFELY," "IMPORTANT NOTES," and "Information"), Carbon-zinc battery (9 V, 6F22)
Option (sold separately)AC adaptor (PSA series)

Size & weight (incl. battery)
Width: 73 mm / 2-7/8 inches
Depth: 129 mm / 5-1/8 inches
Height59 mm / 2-3/8 inches
Weight: 360 g / 13 oz

Notes: Dial in Professional Sounds in Seconds

The BOSS ME series has been a favourite of performing guitarists for over three decades, combining multi-effects power with intuitive hands-on control for crafting tones in seconds. The ME-90 is the most advanced ME model to date, offering exceptional audio quality, flagship-grade AIRD amp models, IR loading, an effects loop, and more. Compact, battery-powered, and filled with premium BOSS tones, this versatile all-in-one processor makes it easy to build customized sound setups for every playing situation.

Fast Sound Creation

With its knob-driven interface and diverse effects selection, the ME-90 lets you build configurations and tweak tones with the ease of a stompbox-filled pedalboard-without the hassle of fastening tape, power distribution, and multiple connection cables. Just dial up an amp model or effect type within a category and turn the knobs to get the sound you want. There are 36 preset patches with ready-to-play pro tones, plus 36 user patches for storing your custom creations.

Flexible Real-Time Control

The ME-90 features eight footswitches with smooth, quiet operation and an expression pedal with an integrated toe switch. Use Memory mode to call up complete patch setups with the footswitches, and then switch to Manual mode for direct on/off control of each effect category within the patch. The footswitch LEDs light in different colours for quick identification in the heat of a performance. It's also possible to set all LEDs to light in a fixed colour for each mode if desired.

High-Quality BOSS Effects

The ME-90 puts a massive library of BOSS effects at your command, offering seven different categories filled with selections derived from the flagship GT-1000. Everything you need is here, from overdrives and distortions to pitch/mod effects, delays, and high-quality reverbs. You also get 11 dedicated Pedal FX, a looper, and specialized effects such as acoustic simulation and down tuning. There are 60 effect types in total, with access to over 20 more via BOSS Tone Studio. A send/return loop is available for external pedals, complete with the ability to save the on/off status in patches and place the loop before or after amp models in the signal chain.

Premium Amp Sounds with AIRD Technology

Along with its effects, the ME-90 includes amp models ported from the GT-1000, driven by our advanced AIRD technology for authentic tube tone and touch response. Eleven onboard amp types offer everything from clean combo sounds to punishing high-gain stacks, and you can access more selections in BOSS Tone Studio. Each amp includes a dedicated cab sound for connecting to a PA or recording device, and you can load three of your favourite speaker IRs to personalize sounds to your taste.

Edit, Customize, and Expand

BOSS Tone Studio for macOS and Windows extends your creative range, allowing you to edit tones and change out some amp and effect types with alternate selections. In addition, you can save and organize patches for different gigs, download pro setups at BOSS Tone Central, and swap patches with the ME-90 community on BOSS Tone Exchange. The ME-90 also supports the optional Bluetoothr Audio MIDI Dual Adaptor, enabling you to stream music from a mobile device and wirelessly shape tones using the dedicated BTS editor app for iOS and Android.

Light, Durable, and Ready to Travel

The ME-90 is lighter than its previous generation model while maintaining the rock-solid durability that BOSS is famous for.

Specifications
Sampling Frequency: 48 kHz
AD Conversion: 24 bits + AF method
AF method (Adaptive Focus method) This is a proprietary method from Roland & BOSS that vastly improves the signal-to-noise (SN) ratio of the AD and DA converters.
DA Conversion: 32 bits
Processing: 32-bit floating point
Effects: 97 Types
Memories: 36 (User) + 36 (Preset)
Phrase Loop: 38 sec. (MONO)
Tuner Internal Detection: +/-0.1 cent
Nominal Input Level: INPUT: -10 dBu, RETURN: -10 dBu
Maximum Input Level: INPUT: +7 dBu, RETURN: +7 dBu
Input Impedance: INPUT: 1 M ohm, RETURN: 1 M ohm
Nominal Output Level: OUTPUT (L/MONO, R): -10 dBu, PHONES: -10 dBu, SEND: -10 dBu
Output Impedance: OUTPUT (L/MONO, R): 1 k ohm, PHONES: 44 ohms, SEND: 1 k ohm
Recommended Load Impedance: OUTPUT (L/MONO, R): 10 k ohms or greater, PHONES: 44 ohms or greater, SEND: 10 k ohms or greater

Controls:BANK DOWN/AMP switch, BANK UP/EQ switch, CTL/REV switch, MEMORY/MANUAL switch, 1/COMP switch, 2/OD/DS switch, 3/MOD switch, 4/DELAY switch, PEDAL FX switch, Gt. AMP/LINE switch, POWER switch, EXIT button, WRITE button, CTL button, EDIT button, PREAMP TYPE knob, GAIN knob, BASS knob, MIDDLE knob, TREBLE knob, LEVEL knob, REVERB knob, COMP/FX1 TYPE knob, SUSTAIN/SENS/-1OCT knob, ATTACK/TONE/-2OCT/DEPTH knob, LEVEL/PEAK/DIRECT knob, OD/DS TYPE knob, DRIVE knob, TONE knob, LEVEL knob, MOD TYPE knob, RATE/KEY knob, DEPTH/HARMONY knob, E.LEVEL/RESONANCE knob, DELAY TYPE knob, TIME knob, FEEDBACK knob, E.LEVEL knob, OUTPUT LEVEL knob, PEDAL FX TYPE knob, PEDAL FX pedal
Display: 7 segments, 2 characters (LED)

Connectors: INPUT jack, OUTPUT (L/MONO, R) jacks, SEND jack, RETURN jack: 1/4-inch phone type
PHONES jack: Stereo miniature phone type
USB COMPUTER port: USB Type-C(R)
Bluetooth ADAPTOR connector: Dedicated connector
DC IN jack

Power Supply: Alkaline battery (AA, LR6) x 4 or AC adapter
Current Draw: 190 mA

Expected battery life under continuous use:
Alkaline battery: Approximately 6.5 hours
* This can vary depending on the specifications of the batteries, capacity of the batteries, and the conditions of use.
Accessories: STARTUP GUIDE, Alkaline battery (AA, LR6) x 4, Leaflet "USING THE UNIT SAFELY"

Options (sold separately)
AC adaptor: PSA-S series
Bluetooth(R) Audio MIDI Dual Adaptor: BT-DUAL
Carry Bag: CB-ME80,CB-BU10

Size & weight

Width: 443 mm / 17-1/2 inches
Depth: 220 mm / 8-11/16 inches
Height: 67 mm / 2-11/16 inches
Maximum Height: 93 mm / 3-11/16 inches
Weight(including battery): 2.9 kg / 6 lb / 7 oz

Review: Disco mixer Mike Muarro has been delivering tasteful, multi-track remixes of disco and soul classics for the last couple of years, and earlier in 2021 delivered a digital-only set of revisions of classic cuts from the Philadelphia International catalogue. This must-check 12" contains two of the most potent reworks from that set. On the A-side you'll find his epic, beautifully executed revision of MFSB's brilliant 'Love is the Message', which features rearranged elements and Tom Moulton style builds, drop outs and instrument solos. He takes a similar approach on the flip, wringing maximum energy and release from the O'Jays 'Message In Our Music' without adding any unnecessary instrumentation. If you're a fan of the Rephlex and Moplen's multi-track revisions, you'll love both remixes.

Review: Yussef Days, a virtuoso drummer, has injected fresh energy into contemporary jazz and broken beat genres through multiple innovative projects, each showcasing his remarkable talent. One of them is The Yussef Dayes Experience which recently dropped its Live At Joshua Tree Presented By Soulection album and now follows it up with another live album, this time from Malibu, on Gilles Peterson's revered Brownswood label. It features music from his critically acclaimed debut solo album, Black Classical Music, and plenty of other gems on limited vinyl with features from his usual longtime collaborators Rocco Palladino, Venna, Elijah Fox, and Alexander Bourt.

Notes: ***B-STOCK: Item refurbished, repaired and in perfect working order.***


Celebrating the 50th anniversary of this truly iconic synth, the 'modern' take on the classic Buchla Music Easel doesn't mess with a winning formula, paring the 208C sound source with 218e touch-sensitive keyboard.

Supplier's Notes:
The Buchla Music Easel was one of the first truly portable electronic music instruments. Fifty years ago, in 1973, only a few dozen were made. Unlike many iconic technologies, the influence was not grown through force of scale, but rather the force of the ideas. The Music Easel made available virtually every musical dimension: timbre, melody, rhythm, and time; how these dimensions intersected was no longer the court of acoustics and material, but signals and voltage. The 208 Stored Program Sound Source engendered "a new functional organization [with a] particularly rapid system of patching and program storage via plug-in cards."

Taking cues from the then-recent discipline of cybernetics, the 218 touch plate was for "real-time communication" to help realize the "potential vocabulary" of the Easel, rather than exploiting existing modes of musical virtuosity. The Stored Program Cards ensured rapid repeatability and repertoire on its own terms. The battery terminals made sure the music was as portable as any acoustic instrument. And the name let you know it was designed for art rather than science.

Buchla is ecstatic to revive the Music Easel for its third run in 50 years. Buchla first released the updated 208 Stored Program Sound Source, dubbed the Easel Command, with expanded MIDI and USB capability. Next came the update of the Easel Program Manager - a complete kit for storing and recalling sounds sources, even more rapidly than imagined in 1973. The new 218 Touch Activated Voltage Source provides the optimal input facility, as originally envisioned. It is now all together in a rugged case and the advanced EMBIO module that unifies all the audio and control inputs and outputs for integration with the rest of your musical world.

More than a retro novelty, the Music Easel still speaks to a future we strive for. A technology that invites conversation, not chats, and controls that engage expression, not work. There are many new worlds to explore in this instrument created at the crossroads of the jazz and computer ages. Designed as "an integrated assemblage of functions", rather than a collection of modules, the Music Easel's colour coding, comfortable access to controls, and solid patch connections allow for satisfying sessions of sonic discovery.

The Music Easel is available for pre-order starting June 16 at Buchla.com and your favourite Buchla Dealer. Delivery of the Music Easel (modern) is expected fall 2023.

Stored Program Sound Source Model 208C

The sound source of the Music Easel is the 208C, which includes a complex oscillator and a modulation oscillator (which can also serve as another voice), each with independent switchable waveforms, as well as a noise generator, allowing for rich and intricate sound design. The 208C also features a five-stage sequencer, envelope generator, pulser and modulation source - with switchable triggers - allowing for complex patterns and evolving textures. The dual low pass gate provides dynamic control over the tone and amplitude of the sound, as well as natural-sounding decay and sustain. The 208C has a number of modulation sources, including a random voltage generator, the envelope generator, modulation oscillator, and an envelope detector. These sources can be used to modulate various parameters via the extensive patchfield - creating movement, texture, and complexity. The 208C also includes a mixer section with spring reverb.

Touch Activated Voltage Source Model 218e (v3)

The first design appeared in the 1973 release of the Buchla Music Easel and named for the spacecraft that delivered astronauts to the moon. Providing the familiar piano key layout for this early mobile music machine, the additional controls and capabilities were an interface for exploring uncharted musical territory. With the new version 3, it's been elevated with a new foundation of stable, modern electronics with incredible sensitivity and accuracy - the lightest touch will produce triggers and control voltages. The adjustable sensor has the dynamic range and durability to handle your playing. The new texture not only improves the sensing, but provides a satisfying tactile experience. As always, pressure is an expressive output, adding an extra dimension to the control. MIDI outputs velocity and polyphony, as well as channel pressure, making the 218e a uniquely expressive controller. The 218e includes portamento and an arpeggiator, which can be driven by external inputs and are allowed to interact with the automated notes to make patterns more complex. Additional controls allow you to blend different patterns and randomness to easily change from the expected to the surprising. The classic preset voltage knobs offer several possible ways to shift your sounds into new territory. Not only can the knobs be used for quick access to voltages for your patch, they can control arpeggiation modes and octave shifting. Pads output pulses for additional control. The 218e also gives you a unique interface to playing your existing MIDI gear and soft synths. Each touch outputs note name, channel pressure, and velocity for every note, along with sustain controls from a pedal. Polyphonic MIDI mode lets you play chords. The touchstrip can act as a pitch bend control, or as a mod wheel for additional expressive control. Easily configured using the front panel controls, you can send notes and controls on any MIDI channel.

Electric Music Box Input/Output (EMBIO)

Maintaining the spirit, sound, and process from the original, the new Music Easel adds a variety of new features. Buchla's latest renditions of the Stored Program Sound Source and Touch Activated Voltage Source are tied together with the Electric Music Box Input/Output (EMBIO) module. This of course provides MIDI out (mini jack and USB) and CV out from the 218, MIDI in to the 208, and the audio out from the 208C. Additional creative control comes from the Audio Mixer, for integration with other Buchla modules and systems, and the CV conditioners and controls. The slew control can turn your sequencer into a wavy modulator, or soften up a square LFO. The attenuator and crossfader gives you the opportunity to find new levels and combinations of voltages from existing ones. The pulse converter offers new rhythms to trigger. And a simple LFO provides another valuable modulator when you just can't quite let yourself flip that Mod Osc switch from "high" to "low."

Review: For those of a certain age, Gwen McRae's "All This Love That I'm Givin" will always evoke memories of Cassius' French Touch classic "Feeling For You", which sampled it heavily. It remains a killer record in its' own right, though, as this timely reissue proves. Originally released in 1979, it sees McRae at her powerful best, delivering a potent message to an errant lover over a killer, low-slung disco-funk groove. It's one of the tracks that should really be in any discerning funk, soul or disco DJ's collection. Flip for original B-side "Maybe I'll Find Somebody New", a breezier chunk of laidback soul with a slightly Southern lilt. It's good, but pales into insignificance compared to the brilliant 'A' side.

Review: Talented LA producer 1morning makes his debut on the well regarded Character label here and brings plenty of the know how he has picked dup while laying down his superb vinyl DJ sets around the world. He fuses new school funky and tribal techno with subtle hints that suggest he has a love of 90s originators like Ben Sims and Dave Angel. 'Samba De Verao' is a dense, high intensity sound with skewed synths and dusty hi hats while 'Flux' is more deep and has throbbing drums and smeared pads fleshing out the groove. On the flip are two more emotionally intense and fantastically engaging techno cuts.

Review: Dresden label Cold Diggin has been a consistent outlet for the work of The Duke Ya Love To Hate, which is one of several different aliases that Stefan Senf choses to work under. Usually they serve up just one of his special 7" outings per year but in 2023 two are arriving in December. This one comes on a hand-numbered 7" in screen-printed sleeve and is limited to just 150 copies. A-side jam 'Cold Wire' is a lively mix of breaks, jazzy chord stabs and plunging bass, then 'Cold Strut' slows things down and builds on a familiar funk break and top line melody in alluring new ways.

Review: Currently back at full activity, and most recently releasing their latest album Il Tradimento Silenzioso (The Silent Betrayal) in 2022, Manchester punk pioneers Slaughter & The Dogs first made their name through their connections to former Joy Division manager Rob Gretton, while their opening slot for the Sex Pistols in Manchester on July 20, 1976 (the second of their two Free Tree Hall shows within two months) played a hand in expanding the city's punk movement before extending to a UK-wide phenomenon. Originally released in 1980, Bite Back served as the feral follow up to the band's quintessential 1978 debut full-length Do It Dog Style, and continued their blistering run of playfully chaotic anthems. Back on vinyl for the first time since its original pressing, this newly refurbished reissue comes with the double A-side of 'I'm The One' b/w 'One By One' as bonus tracks.