Endlesss Clubs public beta commences Clubs is a Discord-style online platform which provides private spaces for music communities to connect and chat, as well as create and share their music.

Benn Jordan is done with making gear videos and reviews, cites “super toxic” community as causeMusician and content creator Benn Jordan today announced that he’s done with making gear videos and reviews, citing ‘burnout’ from the “toxicity and drama” surrounding them.

READ MORE: 5 of Thomann’s best pre-Black Friday deals on synths, studio gear and DJ gear

In his latest YouTube video, Jordan recounts starting the gear channel as a “low motivation side project to make myself speak better”, with an added bonus of potentially receiving “free gear” if he “did a good job”.
While he did eventually achieve what he’d set out to do, Jordan says that the bad actors—as small of a minority they may be— in the synth and gear community have essentially made it “not fun” to make those reviews anymore.
“I do not think that me having a different opinion than somebody about a piece of gear means that I deserve to be wiped off the planet. I don’t think that it means that I should kill myself. I don’t think that it means that this channel deserves to be hacked. I don’t think that I deserve to be doxed or contacted at my home address or through family members’ addresses,” says the man, noting that all of this is “just a tiny sliver of the bullshit that’s taken place in the last 7 months.”
“And the majority of that bullshit unfortunately comes from gear and synth spaces or people who are part of those communities.”
“And I’m done,” Jordan says. “Long story short, I’m just not cut out for the job.”
Referencing his Polyend Tracker Mini launch video back in April, Jordan says that, too, had “an equal amount of toxicity and drama surrounding it.”
“My way of dealing with that was being 100% transparent by releasing the [How Influencers Break The Law] video and then converting this channel to a nonprofit organisation so I would have no personal financial incentive for any of these product videos at all.”
At the end of the day, the musician says that he doesn’t need to make gear videos to make a living and that he’s “certainly not being paid to do it from the company directly.”
“I was only really doing it because I enjoyed it and now I don’t enjoy it anymore. I think that I was wrong in thinking that I could make content like that about music gear and not at least somewhat be an influencer — the most dreaded term ever, right?”
“I’m not going to lie — the synth and gear community can be super toxic and frankly it’s not fun to make them anymore.”
“So I’m not going to cover gear anymore,” he concludes.
In terms of exploring new gear he’s organically interested in, Jordan says that he will be limited to what he can personally afford or “what a retailer is willing to give me a discount on”.
That said, the changes will take a few weeks to see itself through as “it would be a huge dick move for me to send those [gear] back because of this little precedent that I decided to state just now.”
In the meantime, fans can look forward to a “massive research and documentary project” that Jordan and his team have been working on for the past few months: “It is the largest project that I’ve made on this platform so far,” he says.

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You can now remix The Orb and David Gilmour’s latest album using AIIn paid partnership with Sony Music.
The Orb and Pink Floyd guitarist and vocalist David Gilmour are inviting you to remix their own music using AI technology in a new project in partnership with Sony Music.

READ MORE: Black Friday deals 2023: Best early deals for music producers, DJs, beatmakers and musicians

The project, metallicspheres.io, lets you remix songs from The Orb and Gilmour’s collaborative album, Metallic Spheres In Colour, released in September. The album is an extended version of the two’s 2010 work, Metallic Spheres – made up of two extended tracks, Metallic and Spheres.

Launched today, metallicspheres.io is a website that lets you create your own personalised remixes of songs from the album using artificial intelligence. You can even just piece together your own track by combining various samples of Gilmour’s guitar, vocals and other elements.
To get creating just jump on the site, and from here you’ll be guided through a sequence of prompts. You can also select emotional themes for the album’s artwork and fine-tune preferences regarding mood and tempo, letting the AI produce a unique rendition for playback.
Once you – and AI – have cooked up your masterpiece, you can share your remixes via social media, along with your reimagined album covers. These fan-made creations will soon be available for download.
Some fan-crafted remixes of the Metallic Spheres In Colour album cover, based on Simon Ghahary’s original artwork, could even be featured in an upcoming music video supporting the album’s release.
Metallicspheres.io was made by Sony Music and a company called Vermillio, a pioneering generative AI platform ensuring creator empowerment and content authenticity. Vermillio’s AI technology allows for unique text-to-image and image-to-image styling tools.
Talking of using AI to remix music, an AI-powered app called Hook was recently announced. It’s slated for a 2024 launch, offering fans the ability to create remixes for social media platforms like TikTok. Unlike many remixes evading copyright detection, Hook ensures artists are compensated.
Grimes also created a platform in May 2023 called Elf.Tech. It’s an AI software that lets you replicate her voice in any song. Following her permission for voice usage, Elf.Tech allows fans to transform their voices into Grimes-like vocals by singing into the app and they have permission to share their creations.
Create your remix via metallicspheres.io.
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SSL & Slate Digital’s combined subscription offer SSL and Slate Digital have joined forces to offer the chance to access both of their subscription bundles for the price of one until 28 November 2023.

Inear Display Releases Bref FREE Percussion Synthesizer Plugin
Inear Display released Bref, a freeware synthesizer plugin for generating percussive sounds. Bref is a compact synthesizer for creating percussion sounds. It is available as a VST3 and Audio Unit plugin for macOS and Windows. Inear Display states that Bref is designed to create various “short, crisp metallic sounds.” And as you can hear in the [...]
View post: Inear Display Releases Bref FREE Percussion Synthesizer Plugin

Doepfer’s A-100 Basic System 3 beginner modular synthesiser gets an exciting revampThe Doepfer A-100 Basic System 3 synthesiser has been redesigned with a new module selection.
Dieter Doepfer’s company first introduced the A-100 modular synth in 1996, but since the release of the Basic System 2, it’s added new modules every year. And now, you’ll be able to get the Basic System 3 with a fresh module setup.

READ MORE: Black Friday deals 2023: Best early deals for music producers, DJs, beatmakers and musicians

It’s a complete modular synth which comes complete with a selection of 20 A-100 modules. While it’s a standalone system, and can be used as such, you’re able to build on it with other modules if you’d like to. It’s a simple system that appears easy to use, but there’s plenty packed in there.
The Basic System 3 has a range of subtractive modules, as well as one that’s more in the West Coast synthesis vein. This is the A-137-1 Wave Multiplier I. You can make sounds including two-oscillator basses and leads with the synthesiser, as well as explore shaping options like ring modulation, PWM, and FM, through patching.
If you want the Basic System 3, it comes in two case variations, and each of these has two versions in turn. There’s a cheaper version which has a wood finish with two or three rows, and a regular version, which is made from aluminium and can be closed like a case.
About the A-100 Basic System 3, Doepfer said, “The new basic system 3 from Doepfer is a return to Dieter Doepfer’s original vision of analogue modular synthesis. Modules can be connected via front panel audio and CV connectors and used in infinite combinations. The Basic System 3 is an easily accessible and well-structured system that can be used by enthusiasts and beginners alike.
“The system is available in four different cabinets. The LC6V and LC9V low-cost vintage cabinets and the P6 and P9 cases. All systems have at least 20 HP of free space to adapt the system to the needs of each user.”
You can watch a video from Doepfer about the new synthesiser here:

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Polyend launches the Play+ groovebox, featuring new synth engines and more upgradesPolyend has announced a plus version of their sample and synth-based groovebox, Play, which made its debut at the 2022 Superboth.

READ MORE: Black Friday deals 2023: Best early deals for music producers, DJs, beatmakers and musicians

The new groovebox boasts an upgraded internal architecture and a host of new features and enhancements while retaining the same sleek Play form factor of the original. Users can now enjoy stereo playback (versus the Play’s mono) and experience seamless audio streaming over USB.
According to Polyend, the Play+ comes with four new built-in synth engines for you to experiment with. The first is ACD, which harkens back to the “golden age of electronic music with its recreation of iconic single-oscillator monophonic analogue synths”.
Next, we have FAT, a powerhouse synth engine that “epitomises the lush, vintage warmth of classic analogue synthesizers”. It features a classic subtractive design with oscillators, filters, etc.
There’s also VAP, a virtual analogue polysynth that boasts a dual-oscillator architecture and a modulation matrix. Complete with multiple filter flavours and pulse width modulation, VAP allows you to sculpt intricate patterns.
The last synth engine is the cheekily named WTFM, a 2-operator FM synth engine utilising WaveTable-based oscillators driven by a 3x feedback system. The operators are based on sweeping wavetables, ranging from fundamental sine waves to harmonically rich timbres, offering a diverse tonal palette.
Every engine comes shipped with an extensive library of professionally crafted presets for you to dive into things straight out of the box.
In addition, the newly added USB audio support for multiple tracks means that up to 14 stereo audio tracks can be sent individually to your DAW. This allows users to process or mix their tracks very flexibly.
Polyend also says that more updates will be arriving on the Play+ including a built-in patch editor, new synth engines, perform mode for Synth and MIDI, and other new features.
The Play+ will cost you $799/€799. Users with the original Play can also upgrade their unit for a price of $399/€399.

Learn more at Polyend.
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Argosy introduce new IsoBox Pro range Argosy's new IsoBox cabinets have been designed to house studio equipment such as computers, hard drives and outboard gear with loud cooling fans.

The Splice for Students discount is expanding to new horizons
Now, more students than ever can save over 30% off Splice when signing up with a valid .edu or .ac email address.

SEC sues Kraken alleging it violated securities lawsThe SEC alleged Kraken operated as an unregistered exchange, broker, dealer and clearing agency.

Investors are souring on OpenAI’s nonprofit governance modelOpenAI was never quite like other generative AI startups — or other startups period, for that matter. Its governance structure is unique and what ultimately led to the abrupt ousting of CEO Sam Altman on Friday. Even after it transitioned from a nonprofit to a “capped-profit” company in 2019, OpenAI retained an unusual structure that […]
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How to make sample chops like Daft Punk and Justice
Veteran music producer and DJ Devon Johnson walks through how to arrange chopped samples in the distinctive style of Daft Punk and Justice.

The modern record industry is moving into its ‘cut to grow’ phase.On layoffs at Warner Music Group and BMG, and an upcoming cost savings program at Universal Music Group
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5 of Thomann’s best pre-Black Friday deals on synths, studio gear and DJ gearWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. For more information on how this works click here.
Are you ready for Black Friday? It arrives this year on 24 November and sees music tech brands in both software and hardware give away or slash the prices of their products. These discounts can leave a lasting impact, too – remember those exclusive deals that became staples in our setups? Yep, a Black Friday offer on the right piece of kit can significantly enhance your music production setup and – without being too dramatic – change your life. What are you waiting for?

READ MORE: Black Friday deals 2023: Best early deals for music producers, DJs, beatmakers and musicians

One retailer that’s not afraid to make hefty price cuts at this time of the year is Thomann, a German music tech retailer that sells pretty much everything from saxophones to pedals to DJ controllers. Of course, we’re not so much interested in deals on acoustic instruments here at Music Tech and want to know all about thre electronic side of things. So, below are five deals on electronic gear that have caught our eye on Thomann this Black Friday.
5 of Thomann’s best pre-Black Friday deals on synths, studio gear and DJ gear, at a glance:

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 MK2 – 15% off
AKG Lyra – 26% off
Hercules DJ Control Inpulse 200 MK2 – Now $96
Focusrite iTrack Solo + IK Multimedia T-RackS 5 SE (worth $150) for just $85
Roland Bridge Cast – 36% off

Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 MK2 – 15% off

The Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol S88 MK2 is an advanced MIDI keyboard controller that boasts an 88-key fully weighted hammer-action keyboard. It integrates seamlessly with Native Instruments’ Komplete software suite, offering deep control over virtual instruments, effects, and sound parameters, enhancing workflow and creativity for producers.

Price: $833
Check deal at Thomann

AKG Lyra – 26% off

The AKG Lyra is a versatile USB microphone renowned for its exceptional audio quality and adaptability. Offering multiple capture modes, including front, front and back, tight stereo, and wide stereo, it provides flexibility for various recording scenarios. With plug-and-play USB connectivity, it suits content creators, podcasters, and musicians seeking studio-grade sound without complex setup. Its innovative design and quality components ensure crystal-clear audio reproduction ideal for professional recordings and streaming.

Price: $63
Check deal at Thomann

Hercules DJ Control Inpulse 200 MK2 – Now $96

The Hercules DJ Control Inpulse 200 MK2 is a nifty, user-friendly DJ controller built mainly for beginners. So, if you’re looking for a wildly cheap DJ controller to gert your foot in the door of DJing, this could be your best bet. Featuring touch-sensitive jog wheels, performance pads for cues and loops, it includes built-in tutorials so you can learn as you go, and it comes bundled with DJ software.

Price: $96
Check deal at Thomann

Focusrite iTrack Solo + IK Multimedia T-RackS 5 SE (worth $150) for just $85

The Focusrite iTrack Solo is a compact audio interface tailored for solo producers, compatible with iPads, Macs, aswell as PCs. With a Focusrite preamp, DI input, and direct monitoring, it makes for high-quality recordings, and is ideal for musicians, vocalists, and podcasters, too, looking for a portable recording solution.
As part of a Black Friday sale extravaganza, Thomann is throwing in IK Multimedia T-RackS 5 SE, a software bundle of vintage-style effects and processors. It’s essentially a high-end mixing & mastering collection, and, combined with the Focusrite iTrack Solo, could easily amp up your setup.

Price: $85
Check deal at Thomann

Roland Bridge Cast – 36% off

Content creator? Thomann is offering a Roland Bridge Cast for just $165. Released this year, Roland Bridge Cast is an mixer designed for both gamers, content creators and musicians alike. It features a 32-bit DSP, dual audio busses, USB-C connectivity for Windows, Mac, and mobile devices, and compatibility with the PS5, too. It boasts an XLR microphone preamp, headphone jack, intuitive controls, customisable design, voice modulating effects, EQ options, personalised Game EQ presets, delay function for synchronisation, app-based customisation, and access to BGM CAST for stream editing.

Price: $165
Check deal at Thomann

Keep up to date with all things Black Friday via MusicTech.
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ModeAudio Fluid: Ambient Techno Loops Fluid - Ambient Techno Loops from ModeAudio plumbs the depths of the sonically atmospheric and introspective, taking you on an immersive journey through shimmering soundscapes and subtle,... Read More