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AI in Music, Smart Homes & Synth Design – Creative or Just Copying? | The Digital Lifestyle Show
06/25/2025
AI in Music, Smart Homes & Synth Design – Creative or Just Copying? | The Digital Lifestyle Show
This week on The Digital Lifestyle Show, Ian and Garry are back with a deep-dive discussion after a string of great guest episodes. From the creative impact of AI to hands-on synth sound design and smart home automation hacks — it’s a wide-ranging conversation packed with insights, demos, and gear tips. 🎧 In This Episode AI in Music Creation Can AI truly be creative? Or is it just cleverly copying? Ian and Garry explore the impact of AI-generated lyrics, music, and vocals — and how prompt engineering is becoming a new creative skillset. Home Assistant & AI Integration Garry shows off his latest Home Assistant upgrades, including ESP32-powered devices, AI camera feeds, presence tracking, and voice assistants using Chinese open-source projects like Xiaoi. Using AI for Productivity Ian explains how he uses Copilot and ChatGPT to automate repetitive tasks like podcast show notes, timestamps, and YouTube descriptions — freeing up time for creative work. Synth Talk & Sound Design Ian shares his 5-minute synth patch challenges (with free downloads), recreating everything from MiniMoog leads to CR-78 drum patterns using the RD-78. He also previews a new Pink Floyd sound pack for the Korg Wavestate and a free community sound pack. Smart EV Charging Hacks Automating your car charger with Home Assistant? Garry walks through how he uses presence detection and charger APIs to set charging targets automatically. 👇 Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction and recent guest highlights 01:13 – AI in music: creativity vs. automation 04:41 – How prompt engineering shapes AI output 07:06 – AI for smart home: Home Assistant and LLM Vision 09:02 – Using AI to automate podcast show notes and timestamps 10:45 – Can AI design YouTube thumbnails and album art? 12:06 – Xiaoi open-source Chinese AI device overview 14:25 – Integrating Xiaoi with Home Assistant using MCP 16:59 – UK vs China AI accessibility & open tools 17:43 – Real-world AI use: security cameras and gate detection 19:11 – Using Copilot + Power Automate to process documents 21:04 – AI hallucinations and corrections 23:01 – Songwriting with AI and prompt quality 25:02 – Vocal synthesis and creative applications 29:11 – 5-minute synth patch creation challenges 30:42 – Pink Floyd sound pack for Korg Wavestate 31:19 – Free community sound pack: 23 performances 32:03 – Recreating CR-78 patterns on the Behringer RD-78 32:38 – ESP32 and BLE triangulation for home presence tracking 35:08 – Dashboard automations and context awareness 36:41 – mmWave sensors and Zigbee repeaters 38:00 – Smart EV charging automation via Home Assistant 40:05 – Follow-me LED lighting and ambient control 41:55 – Retro-futurism, LED strip tracking, and presence UX 43:25 – Temperature sensors and home heat mapping 45:21 – USB-controlled Zigbee hubs and gadgets 47:00 – Sun tracking for blind control and temperature automation 48:13 – Simplifying overly complex home automations 49:01 – Gary’s EV channel and future interviews 50:00 – Ian’s Surface Go travel plans and synth-free holiday 50:34 – Wrap-up and where to find downloads and videos 50:55 – Outro: AI-generated theme music
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The Digital Lifestyle Show: Daniel Fisher from Sweetwater on Synths, Sound Design, and Live Performance
06/19/2025
The Digital Lifestyle Show: Daniel Fisher from Sweetwater on Synths, Sound Design, and Live Performance
In this week’s episode of The Digital Lifestyle Show, I’m joined by none other than Daniel Fisher from Sweetwater. If you're into synthesisers, programming, or live performance — this is a must-listen episode. Daniel has had a long and fascinating journey through music and synthesis, and in this episode, he shares stories from his early musical experiences, how he got started with synthesisers, and how he became one of the most respected sound designers in the industry. We chat about: How Daniel learned music by ear and discovered synthesis as a child His first synth experiences with instruments like the Minimoog and DX7 Transitioning from analog to digital synthesis Creating synth patches for tribute bands, including Pink Floyd The importance of learning one synth deeply vs collecting too many plugins Hardware vs software synths — and why he prefers a hands-on approach Daniel’s all-time favourite synth (spoiler: it’s a Kurzweil!) Whether you’re a beginner or a synth veteran, Daniel shares brilliant insights and practical tips — especially if you play live or work with cover bands. He also talks about his amazing free Synth Clips series on YouTube, which walks through the fundamentals of synthesis step by step. 🎹 Explore Daniel’s Synth Clips series Search for “Synth Clips Daniel Fisher” on YouTube, or just type Daniel Fisher Sweetwater to find his full library of tutorials and demos. 💬 Let us know your thoughts! What synth did you first fall in love with? Do you prefer plugins or hardware? Drop a comment below.
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Hacking the Korg DW8000 with Thomas Jansson
06/11/2025
Hacking the Korg DW8000 with Thomas Jansson
n this episode, we dive deep into the world of vintage synth firmware hacking with Thomas Jansson. Thomas has been developing new firmware for the classic 1986 Korg DW8000 synthesizer, adding features like enhanced unison detune, expanded filter resolution, random LFOs, and new modulation destinations — all while preserving the synth’s vintage character. We also explore Thomas' background in music, his love of Commodore 64 and Amiga computers, SID chip programming, trackers, and chip tunes. Hear how reverse engineering 40-year-old synthesizers becomes a giant puzzle that combines music, software engineering, and creative problem-solving. Topics covered: Why create firmware for a 1986 synth How reverse engineering old synths works New DW8000 features Thomas added The SID chip, Acid protocol, and modern chip tune synths Using trackers and mod files on the Amiga Vintage gear and creative limitations AI-generated music & the future of music tech Home automation and EV charging with Home Assistant Whether you're into vintage synths, retro computing, or software hacking — this is a fascinating deep dive into the intersection of old and new technology.
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Synth Stories & Studio Secrets with Peter Dowsett – TDL Podcast Episode
05/28/2025
Synth Stories & Studio Secrets with Peter Dowsett – TDL Podcast Episode
🎙️ New Episode of the TDL Podcast! This week, I’m joined by Peter Dowsett, a long-time synthesizer enthusiast, producer, and vintage sampler collector, for a deep dive into synth history, creative sound design, and studio setup secrets. Peter shares his journey from discovering synths in the early '80s to building an advanced modern studio with 90 live audio inputs via MADI routing. We talk TR-505 drum machines, the underrated Sequential Six-Trak, Waldorf wavetables, and the legendary EMU samplers—plus, the one synth he’d save on a desert island! 🎧 Listen Now: [Insert YouTube Embed or Podcast Player Here] 🔍 What We Talk About: The synth that started it all: Roland TR-505 Peter’s first band Neuer Ritmus and early synth choices The gear he regrets selling (Moog Source!) Using samplers creatively: Akai S900, Ensoniq EPS, Roland S-50 Setting up a pro-level MIDI + audio studio The joy of programming with knobs vs menus Why the Waldorf Iridium might be his “one synth to rule them all” 🎹 Synths & Gear Mentioned: Roland TR-505, MC-500, S-50 Sequential Six-Trak Yamaha DX7, TX7 Korg DW-6000, DW-8000, D-110 Waldorf Microwave XT, Iridium Ensoniq EPS Akai S900 EMU ESI-4000, E5000 Moog Source Arturia Polybrute, Prophet 12 📦 Peter’s Desert Island Synth Picks: Waldorf Iridium Keyboard Moog Source (stolen, sadly!) 💬 “Sometimes, it's not about having more gear—it’s about having the right connection with it.” – Peter Dowsett 🗓️ Subscribe to the podcast for more great synth chats, music tech stories, and gear deep dives!
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Exploring the Octave Cat with James Brennan
05/21/2025
Exploring the Octave Cat with James Brennan
🎙️ This Week on the Show: Exploring the Octave Cat with James Brennan James Brennan is back! Following his popular appearance discussing the Polyvox, James returns to dive deep into another quirky classic – the Octave Cat analog synthesizer. In this episode, we explore the history of Octave Electronics, how the Cat compares to synths like the ARP Odyssey and Minimoog, and what makes this rare monosynth so unique. James also shares a fascinating story about acquiring and restoring his Cat, explains the synth’s duophonic mode, and walks us through its filters, modulation, and signature growl. We also touch on the synth’s connection to Turtle Beach, discuss vintage synth quirks, and talk about modern recreations from Behringer and Cherry Audio. 🔧 Whether you're a synth nerd, collector, or just love analog gear, this episode is packed with insight and great sounds. 🕒 Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction & James Brennan returns 00:51 – Polyvox follow-up and interesting backstory 03:12 – Introducing the Octave Cat 04:46 – History of Octave Electronics and Turtle Beach connection 06:05 – Other synths by Octave Plateau 07:16 – Voyetra 8 and early computer integration 08:00 – Acquiring the Octave Cat (and restoration troubles!) 11:56 – Octave Cat architecture overview 14:00 – Sound demo: resonant bass and envelope looping 16:00 – LFO tricks and sample & hold 17:00 – Performance section quirks 18:05 – Versions: CAT, SRM1, SRM2 – key differences 19:04 – Filter discussion and SSM 2030 20:00 – VCO1 deep dive and modulation 22:50 – Waveform mixing & sub oscillators 24:25 – VCO2 features and metallic cross-mod sounds 25:32 – Filter section demo and self-oscillation 27:00 – Filter modulation and ring mod-style effects 28:36 – VCA & noise generator 29:36 – Hard sync sound demo 31:05 – Duophonic mode and how it behaves 33:38 – ARP lawsuit story and duophonic patent 34:52 – Filter-as-oscillator trick & sine wave glide 36:40 – Final sound demos: fat bass, duophonic chords 40:00 – General impressions & how it fits synth-pop 41:25 – Behringer and Cherry Audio versions of the Cat 43:03 – Synth collection chat: Polyvox, Monopoly, JD-800 trade 45:27 – Outro and thanks
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TDL Synth Chat: Peter Taipei on Synths, Samplers & Sonic Exploration
05/14/2025
TDL Synth Chat: Peter Taipei on Synths, Samplers & Sonic Exploration
This week I'm joined by musician and synth aficionado Peter Taipei for a deep dive into decades of gear, sound design, and creative inspiration. From his early days on the Roland JX-10 and Yamaha RY30 to sampling with EMU samplers, gigging with the Virus TI, and exploring granular synthesis, Peter shares insights from his journey blending guitars and synths in both hardware and DAW-based setups. We also chat about: The charm and power of the Korg Modwave Recreating classic sounds with Behringer clones Using limitations to spark creativity Capturing inspiration on the fly Favorite plugins, drum machines, and DIY gear Whether you're into vintage hardware, modern production, or hybrid setups, this episode is packed with nostalgic gear talk and practical production tips.
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Podcast: Testing Cubase on Snapdragon! | New Surface Devices & EV Show Highlights
05/08/2025
Podcast: Testing Cubase on Snapdragon! | New Surface Devices & EV Show Highlights
This week, Garry returns and we catch up on all the latest in tech and electric vehicles! 🖥️ I dive into testing the new Snapdragon-powered Surface Pro 11, sharing my experience using it for music production with Cubase 14 ARM and low-latency studio headphones. We also cover the newly announced 12" Surface Pro and 13" Surface Laptop, exploring their specs, price points, and limitations. 🎹 We also talk about OneOdio Studio Max headphones, the challenges of audio drivers on ARM, and Microsoft's new AI-powered features like Recall. 🚗 Garry shares his trip to Everything Electric London, test driving the new MG EVs, the exciting MG Cyberster, and exploring cutting-edge tech like Android Automotive in the Kia PV series. He also covers electric vans, camper conversions, smart home charging gear, and the growing EV infrastructure in the UK. 💡 Whether you're into Windows, synths, or EVs—this episode's packed with insights! 📌 Chapters: 00:00 Intro 01:20 Surface Pro 11 for Music Production 10:00 OneOdio Studio Max Headphones 13:00 AI features & Recall on Surface 16:30 New 12" Surface Pro & Surface Laptop 25:00 Everything Electric London Recap 34:00 Kia PV Series & Android Automotive 41:00 Hydrogen vs EV: What's Next? 48:00 Retro-Inspired EVs & New Tech 51:00 Smart Home Gadgets & Wrap-Up 🔔 Subscribe and turn on notifications for more tech & EV discussions every week! #SurfacePro11 #CubaseARM #EverythingElectric #EVNews #MicrosoftSurface #AIonWindows #SnapdragonXElite #ElectricVans #MusicProduction #StudioGear
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TDL Synth Chat – Episode with Beat Zimmermann
04/30/2025
TDL Synth Chat – Episode with Beat Zimmermann
: 🎹 TDL Synth Chat – Episode with Beat Zimmermann This week on TDL Synth Chat, Ian Dixon is joined by keyboardist, composer, and producer Beat Zimmermann for a deep dive into music, synths, and an exciting upcoming project. Beat shares his journey from classical piano training to jazz and fusion, his early passion for synthesizers, and his impressive collection of gear through the decades—from DX7s to JX-3Ps and beyond. They explore the evolution of live performance setups, the shift from hardware to software, and Beat’s refreshing take on recording in the modern age. Plus, he discusses his ambitious new album project Unicorn Umbrellas, featuring Michael Sadler of Saga on vocals and Todd Sucherman of Styx on drums. Hear how the collaboration came together, the tech and instruments behind it, and how he’s handling production and remote recording. It’s a conversation full of synth nostalgia, production tips, and inspiration for musicians at any level. 🎧 Topics include: Beat’s transition from classical to prog and fusion His vintage and modern synth setups The use of AI in demo production Building a personal studio Collaborating remotely with legendary musicians The making of Unicorn Umbrellas 🔗 More on Beat: 📢 Follow Unicorn Umbrellas on Facebook for updates.
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From OP-1 to Take 5: Synth Chat with Seth Weisfeld
04/24/2025
From OP-1 to Take 5: Synth Chat with Seth Weisfeld
🎧 Synth Chat with Seth | From Teenage Engineering to Take 5 and Beyond 🎹 Welcome to this week’s episode of The Synth Show! Ian chats with Seth Weisfeld —a product designer, synth enthusiast, and founder of Function Health—about his synth journey, gear picks, and design philosophy. Seth shares how his background at Facebook shaped his views on user experience in synths, why he’s drawn to the OP-1 and Hydrasynth, and how he’s chasing the perfect balance of playability and depth. We dive deep into gear he's loved (and sold), why he’s back in love with the Take 5, and his hopes for a future synth that balances immediacy with innovation. 🚀 Topics include: His synth journey from Nord to OP-1 Field Thoughts on the MicroKorg 2, Multi/Poly, and synth UI design Why build quality and playability matter more than ever The magic of beginner-friendly synths that still go deep The role of AI in shaping the future of music gear What makes Behringer, Teenage Engineering, and Yamaha stand out (or fall short) Why we’re all just chasing sounds we fell in love with decades ago 🎛️ Whether you're a vintage synth nerd or modern groovebox fan, there’s a ton to dig into. If you’ve ever debated keeping or flipping a synth, you’ll relate to this one! 📌 Links: 🎵 Check out Seth’s music on Spotify: 📺 More synth content, demos, and interviews: 👉 Like this episode? Hit that thumbs up, subscribe for more weekly synth chats, and drop your favorite synth in the comments! #synths #teenageengineering #take5 #modwave #hydrasynth #electronicmusic #synthchat #dawless #geartalk #vintagesynths
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Soviet Synth Secrets: The Polyvox Deep Dive with James Brennan
04/09/2025
Soviet Synth Secrets: The Polyvox Deep Dive with James Brennan
In this episode of TDL Synthchat, we dive into the world of Soviet-era synthesizers with special guest James Brennan. We explore the legendary Polyvox, a raw and aggressive analog synth known for its powerful filter and Cold War aesthetic. James shares his journey into electronic music, how he acquired his Polyvox from Ukraine, and the quirks that make this synth a unique piece of history. We also discuss the broader landscape of vintage synth collecting, the resurgence of analog gear, and modern alternatives to the Polyvox. Plus, James gives a live demo of the synth’s brutal sound—despite a few technical hiccups! Whether you're a synth enthusiast or just love hearing about rare and unusual gear, this episode is packed with deep-dive insights and sonic nostalgia.
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TDL Synth Chat: Eva Orchard on Her Synth Journey and Latest Gear
04/02/2025
TDL Synth Chat: Eva Orchard on Her Synth Journey and Latest Gear
Welcome to the latest edition of TDL Synth Chat! This week, I am joined by experimental musician and synthesist Eva Orchard. Eva talks about her journey into music and how she got started. We also discuss how she chose her first synthesizer and the latest gear she’s using. Links from this week's show:
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Exploring AI, Smart Homes, and Music: A Catch-Up with Ian Dixon and Garry Whittaker
03/26/2025
Exploring AI, Smart Homes, and Music: A Catch-Up with Ian Dixon and Garry Whittaker
In this episode, Ian Dixon and Garry Whittaker catch up on various topics, including recent music interviews, travel experiences, and the efficiency of charging networks. They discuss Ripple's receivership and its impact on investors, as well as Garry's home projects like a rain sensor with impressive battery life. Ian shares his work on programming drum machines and recreating sounds from various artists, while Garry talks about AI integration in his smart home system. They also touch on the latest builds of Windows 11 and the functionality of Copilot in Visual Studio. The episode concludes with plans for future shows and guests.
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Bringing the Jen SX1000 Back to Life – Interview with Audiothing’s Carlo
03/17/2025
Bringing the Jen SX1000 Back to Life – Interview with Audiothing’s Carlo
TDL Show #985 This week on the show, I’m joined by Carlo from Audiothing to talk about his recreation of the classic monosynth, the Jen SX1000. Carlo’s love for this budget-friendly 1978 mono synth inspired him to bring it back as a plugin. We discuss how he got into synthesizers and why the Jen SX1000 was his first analog synth. Carlo shares his approach to designing the plugin, what makes the Jen SX1000 a great synth to recreate, and the design choices he made—including some added functionality. We also chat about the new synth projects he’s currently working on. Check out my comparison video, where I put my original Jen SX1000 side by side with the plugin. The Jen SX1000 plugin is available for €69, with a free trial for those who want to try it out first.
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Behind the Sounds: Mark Pigott on Synthesis, Tutorials, and Gea
03/12/2025
Behind the Sounds: Mark Pigott on Synthesis, Tutorials, and Gea
Welcome to this week’s podcast! TDL Show #978 On the show this week, we are joined by Mark Pigott, sound designer and musician, to talk about his love of sound design. Mark has created many video tutorials on using the Waldorf Blofeld, Korg Modwave, and Korg Multi/Poly. We discuss how he got into synthesis, the art of programming wavetable synths, and much more!
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Dive into Synth Modulation with Peter 'Ski' Schwartz
03/05/2025
Dive into Synth Modulation with Peter 'Ski' Schwartz
This week on the TDL Show, we have a synth modulation master class from Peter “Ski” Schwartz, an expert sound designer and the creator of many classic synth sounds, including many of the presets on Korg synths like the Wavestation, Z1, Modwave, and the Multi/Poly. Using Modwave Native, Peter explains the principles of synth modulation and how you can use the Mod Processors on synths like the Modwave, Wavestate, and Multi/Poly to create rich and evolving sounds. Peter knows all the tricks and gives us a live demo of expert synth design. Unfortunately, Teams reduced the audio quality (and the stereo field) of the Modwave, but it's still a great lesson in synth design.
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Enhance Your Home Security and Explore Vintage Synth Sounds: This Week on the TDL Show
02/26/2025
Enhance Your Home Security and Explore Vintage Synth Sounds: This Week on the TDL Show
TDL Show #976 Welcome to this week’s TDL Show! Garry talks about low-cost home security cameras and how to integrate them into your home security system. I explore a new plugin that recreates the classic Jen SX1000 and compare it to my own Jen. I also discuss the new MIDI stack in Windows 11 and revisit my old Korg NX5R. Plus, I launch my new community sound bank project and much more! Links from this week’s show: Thanks to my Patreon supporters.
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MarQ Speck on 50 Years of SWEET CRYSTAL & Synth Evolution
02/19/2025
MarQ Speck on 50 Years of SWEET CRYSTAL & Synth Evolution
TDL Show #975 Welcome to this week’s Synth Chat! This week on the show, I’m joined by keyboard player MarQ Speck from SWEET CRYSTAL. He’s celebrating 50 years with the group and has played an incredible range of synths over the years. We discuss his journey, from starting out with organs to acquiring his first Minimoog and other classic synths. We also talk about the regret of letting go of potential classics and the differences between studio needs and live performance requirements. Plus, we dive into synth clones, new synths, and much more! Links from this week’s show: · ·
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From TB-303 to Today: Kelly Myers on Electronic Music Gear
02/06/2025
From TB-303 to Today: Kelly Myers on Electronic Music Gear
Welcome to this week's podcast, where Garry and I are joined by musician and DJ Kelly Myers to talk about his passion for synths, drum machines, and music. Kelly has an interesting collection of electronic music gear, including the classic Roland TB-303. He shares how he got into music, talks about his gear collection, and explains why he uses both modern and classic synthesizers. Links from this week’s show: Thanks to my Patreon supporters.
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TDL Show #973 - Smart Homes, AI Heating & Korg Synth Sounds
01/29/2025
TDL Show #973 - Smart Homes, AI Heating & Korg Synth Sounds
Welcome to this week’s podcast! Garry and I catch up on the latest tech news, including the smart home gadgets he's been testing—such as using AI to control heating. I also talk about my new Korg sound packs and the latest Windows 11 builds. Links from this week’s show: · · ·
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Synth Stories: Building a Vintage Collection with Vulture Culture
01/23/2025
Synth Stories: Building a Vintage Collection with Vulture Culture
Welcome to This Week’s Show! This week, I’m joined by musician, synth collector, and YouTuber Alex Dalliance, also known as Vulture Culture. Alex has an incredible YouTube channel and a thriving community centered around vintage synthesizers. Alex regularly hosts a weekly YouTube live stream where he dives deep into the world of vintage and modern synths, sharing his expertise and passion with fans and fellow enthusiasts. In this episode, we chat about Alex’s journey into music, his first vintage synth, and how he built his impressive collection. He shares insights into the challenges of maintaining vintage synthesizers and reveals which ones he considers overrated and which are absolutely irreplaceable. Alex’s passion for synths and his community is truly inspiring, and I’m sure you’ll enjoy this engaging conversation as much as I did! Links from this week's show:
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Redefining Analog Modeling: Korg’s Multi/Poly and NAMM Announcements
01/16/2025
Redefining Analog Modeling: Korg’s Multi/Poly and NAMM Announcements
TDL Show 971 Welcome to This Week’s Podcast! This week, I’m joined by Dan Phillips from Korg R&D to dive into Korg’s NAMM announcements and the exciting new Multi/Poly synthesizer. Dan shares insights about the latest products unveiled at NAMM, focusing on the Multi/Poly—a new analog modeling synthesizer. He discusses the inspiration and development behind this instrument, explaining why the team decided to innovate beyond simply recreating the classic Mono/Poly. We explore the standout features of the Multi/Poly, including its advanced filters, synth templates, and meticulously modeled envelopes. Dan also explains the inclusion of wave shaping, the role of CMT (Component Modeling Technology), and what’s next for Korg R&D. Don’t forget to check out my brand-new sound set for the Multi/Poly, along with tutorial videos to help you make the most of this incredible synth! Links from this week’s show · · ·
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2025 Begins: Korg Multi/Poly, 360 Cameras, and Smart Homes
01/09/2025
2025 Begins: Korg Multi/Poly, 360 Cameras, and Smart Homes
Welcome to our first show of 2025! This week, Garry and I discuss what we're looking forward to this year, the latest news from CES, and exciting developments in music tech. I share details about my new Korg Multi/Poly, Garry dives into the world of 360 cameras, and we explore the latest trends in smart home technology. Links from this week’s show: · · · ·
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From Synths to EVs: Exploring the Latest Tech and AI on the Podcast
12/18/2024
From Synths to EVs: Exploring the Latest Tech and AI on the Podcast
This week on the podcast, Garry is back, and we’re catching up on the latest news! Garry dives into the newest developments in the EV world and shares updates on some exciting tech projects he’s been working on. Meanwhile, I talk about the Korg Multi/Poly, which I’ve just had the chance to explore. We also discuss Windows Insider news, AI advancements, and much more.
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Behind the Keys: Vintage Synths and Genesis Sounds with Matt Thomas
12/12/2024
Behind the Keys: Vintage Synths and Genesis Sounds with Matt Thomas
This week on the TDL Show, I am joined by Matt Thomas to talk about playing in a Genesis tribute band. Matt has an amazing collection of vintage synths that he uses in Genesis shows. We discuss his setup and how he has transcribed all the parts for his performances. Matt also has a brilliant YouTube channel where he explains how to recreate the complex parts of Tony Banks' performances and how to reproduce the sounds he uses on both old and new synths. It’s a brilliant hour of synth and Genesis geek-out!
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Network MIDI 2.0 and Built-in ASIO: Pete Brown Talks Windows Audio Innovations
12/05/2024
Network MIDI 2.0 and Built-in ASIO: Pete Brown Talks Windows Audio Innovations
TDL Show #967 This Week’s Show: Special Guest Pete Brown from Microsoft This week, we’re thrilled to have a special guest on the show—Microsoft’s Pete Brown! Pete joins us to discuss the latest advancements in MIDI and audio technology in Windows. One highlight of our conversation is the new Network MIDI 2.0 implementation, which has just been ratified. This exciting update enables MIDI to work over standard networking, including Wi-Fi. Pete explains what this technology is, how it works, and its potential to revolutionize the future of music production. We also dive into the upcoming built-in ASIO drivers for future versions of Windows, which will eliminate the need for specialized drivers. Pete shares insights into how this change simplifies the user experience for musicians and audio professionals. Finally, we discuss recent announcements from various hardware and software developers regarding support for Snapdragon-based Windows systems. Pete explains why this shift is significant for music producers and how it aligns with Microsoft’s vision for the future.
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Synth Stories with Ron Peters: From Teisco Gems to the Yamaha DX1
11/20/2024
Synth Stories with Ron Peters: From Teisco Gems to the Yamaha DX1
TDL show #966 Welcome to this week’s show! We have an incredible guest joining us: Ron Peters from San Antonio, Texas. Ron shares his passion for music and synthesizers, giving us a glimpse into his impressive collection of vintage synths. He explains his philosophy of keeping only the gear he actively uses—yes, that includes parting ways with a legendary CS-80! Ron also takes us through his journey into the world of synthesizers, his love for Teisco synths, and the fascinating story of how he reunited with the iconic Yamaha DX1. Links from this week’s show: · · · · · · Thanks to my Patreon supporters.
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Microsoft Surface: Past, Present, and Future Insights
11/13/2024
Microsoft Surface: Past, Present, and Future Insights
Welcome to this week’s podcast! Garry and I are joined by Microsoft MVPs Alexander Solaat Rødland and Rob Quickenden for an in-depth discussion on Microsoft Surface. We take a look back at the history of Microsoft’s hardware brand, exploring its evolution and key milestones. Then, we review the current Surface lineup and share our thoughts on what the future may hold for the Surface brand.
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TDL Show #964 - Peter “Ski” Schwartz
11/06/2024
TDL Show #964 - Peter “Ski” Schwartz
TDL Show #964 Welcome to this week’s show, and it’s a bit of a classic! I’m joined by musician and sound designer Peter “Ski” Schwartz, who shares insights from his extensive career in sound design. He discusses working on the prototype of the Korg M1 synth, describing how he influenced its design process and the samples it used. He also recalls creating the iconic Ski Jam patch on the Korg Wavestation, which was once labelled the “worst sound ever programmed on a synth.” We also dive into his work on the filter for the Korg 01/W and his contributions to physical modeling synths like the Korg Prophecy, including his work on the ModLog controller for it. Peter talks about what separates a good virtual analog sound from a great one, and we bring things up to date with his recent projects on the Korg Modwave, Wavestate, and ARP 2600 plugin. Finally, we wrap up with a chat about the new Korg Multi Poly synth. Links from this week’s show: · · · · · ·
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From Analog to Digital and Back: Oli Freke on Synthesizer History and Revival
10/30/2024
From Analog to Digital and Back: Oli Freke on Synthesizer History and Revival
TDL Show #963 This week on the show, I’m talking to Oli Freke, author of the brilliant Synthesizer Evolution book, which traces the history of synthesizers from their early beginnings to the analog peak, the digital takeover, and back to analog. We discuss how he got started writing the book and the amazing stories he discovered along the way. He shares his personal highlights and insights on the renaissance of analog synthesis. We also dive into Oli’s new project, SynthTrax.net—a venture to document which synthesizers were used on all tracks. Just a small undertaking! Oli explains why he needs your help with this ambitious project. Oli is a passionate synth and electronic music enthusiast, and it was a pleasure chatting with him. Links from this week’s show: · · ·
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Richard Hay on life after Microsoft, Drones and new tech
10/23/2024
Richard Hay on life after Microsoft, Drones and new tech
TDL Show #962 This week on the show, Garry and I are joined by an old friend, Richard Hay. Richard, who was a blogger and writer covering all things Windows before joining Microsoft, has recently retired. We'll be discussing his transition from writing about Microsoft to working on the inside. We’ll also dive into 10 years of the Windows Insider program and explore some of the tech Richard is currently enjoying, including 3D printing and drones. Plus, we’ve got some exciting updates on Garry’s new presence-sensing tech and much more!
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