Blog
Blog
Synthesizer hardware notes, creative technology, and more.
Tools
Markdown Cheat Sheet
<p>A quick reference to the Markdown syntax. Overview This Markdown cheat sheet offers a concise overview of all Markdown syntax elements. While it may not encompass every edge case, for more detailed information on any of these elements, please consult the reference guides for basic syntax and extended syntax. Basic Syntax: These elements are outlined […]</p>
Eurorack
Behringer – Abacus – Music Computer
<p>The Behringer Abacus — officially titled the ABACUS Analog Music Computer — is one of the most talked-about budget entries in the Eurorack ecosystem. Released around 2023 (with widespread availability continuing into 2025–2026), this 20 HP module democratizes extremely powerful function generation and voltage processing that was previously locked behind much higher price points. At […]</p>
Eurorack
Behringer – 297 Dual Portamento and CV Utilities – Notes
<p>This is the Behringer System 100 297 Dual Portamento/CV Utilities Module, combining portamento and mixer functions. It’s an authentic recreation of the original 1980s “System 100M” circuitry, designed to fit seamlessly into a standard Eurorack case. Best of all, it’s budget-friendly! Integrate the 297 into your current setup or kick off your modular synth adventure […]</p>
Synthesizer Hardware
Yamaha – MX-88 – Synthesizer Notes
<p>I originally purchased the Yamaha MX-88 for use as a stage piano for visiting musicians. The Yamaha MX-88 is a Yamaha Motif with a crappier interface and MIDI implementation. The sound engine is identical and hackable.</p>
Artist
Isao Tomita – Artist Notes
<p>Isao Tomita (1932–2016) was a Japanese composer and synthesizer pioneer who transformed classical music into cosmic electronic soundscapes, becoming one of the most influential figures in electronic music history. He was born in Tokyo on April 22, 1932, Tomita studied art history at Keio University while privately pursuing composition. After graduating, he wrote music for […]</p>
Ableton Live
Ableton Live File Types
<p>Welcome to the wonderful (and sometimes confusing) world of Ableton Live files! If you’ve ever stared at a .alc, .adg, or .ablbundle and wondered ‘what even is this?’, you’re not alone. These file extensions power everything from your main projects to custom devices, grooves, and packs — but they’re not always intuitive. That’s why I […]</p>
Eurorack
Erica Synths – EDU DIY Kick Drum – Notes
<p>A collaboration between Moritz Klein and Erica Synths. Features Device Specifications</p>
Synthesizer Hardware
Behringer – 2600 Analog Semi-modular Synthesizer – Notes
<p>The Behringer 2600 is a faithful analog recreation of the iconic ARP 2600 semi-modular synthesizer from the 1970s. This desktop/rack-mount beast delivers the same fat, versatile tones with three voltage-controlled oscillators, a multi-mode resonant filter, extensive patching capabilities, envelopes, LFO, ring mod, sample & hold, voltage processors, and more—all in a compact 19″ rack format. […]</p>
Effects Design
Effects Design – Jon Dattorro – Notes
<p>Jon Dattorro’s Effect Design Part 1: Reverberator and Other Filters is located here: https://ccrma.stanford.edu/~dattorro/EffectDesignPart1.pdf</p>