Superbooth 2023: The latest synth and studio gear announcements
Catch up with all the new arrivals at Superbooth 2023 in Berlin, one of the world’s biggest music tech trade shows
Superbooth 2022, image by Angela Kroell
One of the most thrilling events in the music tech world has just concluded, Superbooth 2023. Held in Berlin from 11th to 13th May, Superbooth is renowned as one of the largest trade shows in the industry.
Each year, music enthusiasts and professionals alike eagerly anticipate Superbooth, as it serves as a platform for leading brands to unveil their highly anticipated synth and studio gear. At the prestigious FEZ-Berlin venue, industry giants such as Oberheim, Teenage Engineering, Cre8audio, and Korg have historically stolen the spotlight with their groundbreaking announcements and product launches. The question on everyone’s mind was: what surprises awaited us this year?
Throughout the event, we closely monitored the influx of new information and updates, ensuring that we kept our readers informed of the latest news. This hub served as a central resource, providing real-time coverage of the remarkable developments at Superbooth 2023. If you missed any announcements, be sure to keep a close watch on this page for all the noteworthy highlights.
Oberheim OB-X8 Desktop
Oberheim has responded to the pleas of OB-X8 fans worldwide by introducing the OB-X8 Desktop, a compact version of the highly acclaimed eight-voice synthesizer launched in 2022.
The tabletop module retains the exceptional sound engine of its keyboard counterpart, featuring an all-analogue signal path with separate VCOs, VCAs, and filters. It offers the same intuitive knob-per-function design for easy sound manipulation, granting immediate access to nearly all of the synth’s parameters. Additionally, it maintains essential features like the Arpeggiator and Keyboard Split & Double functionality, ensuring seamless integration with your preferred controller.
Find out more at oberheim.com.
UDO Super Gemini
UDO Audio has introduced the Super Gemini, a new analogue-hybrid synthesizer with 20 voices of polyphony and bi-timbral capabilities. Serving as the second installment in UDO’s ‘Super’ series, the Gemini expands upon the renowned sound of its predecessor, the Super 6.
This synth combines cutting-edge FPGA digital architecture with voltage-controlled analog technology, resulting in a bi-timbral powerhouse. Its dual-layer design empowers users with extensive control over both timbral layers, while the impressive 20-voice polyphony delivers a robust and versatile sound engine, providing a wide range of sonic possibilities beyond a single sound.
Find out more at udo-audio.com.
Roland S-1 Tweak
Roland introduces the S-1 Tweak Synth, a pocket-sized polyphonic synthesizer that draws inspiration from the iconic SH-101. This compact addition to the AIRA lineup offers a four-voice polyphony and built-in sequencing, all presented through a user-friendly interface.
The S-1 Tweak features dedicated knobs for oscillator, envelope, filter, and LFO controls, while the bottom panel incorporates 26 multi-function pads for a keyboard with a two-plus octave range and a step sequencer interface. Roland aims to deliver the essence of the revered SH-101 in a portable and straightforward format with the S-1 Tweak Synth.
Find out more at roland.com.
Erica Synths Steampipe
Unveiling their latest creation, the Steampipe, Erica Synths introduces an eight-voice polyphonic synthesizer devoid of oscillators.
The STEAM section of the Steampipe functions as the musician’s lungs and mouth, generating the airflow or “steam,” while the envelope controls its intensity. The noise dial produces the blowing noise, and it can be substituted with an external audio source. The PIPE section, akin to a flute, shapes the tone, with the push dial bouncing the steam to create the sound. The delay box adjusts the tuning and shape of the flute-like tone. Lastly, the REVERBERATOR enhances the sound with spaciousness and ambience.
Find out more at ericasynths.lv.
Korg microKorg 20th Anniversary Crystal Edition
In honour of the 20th anniversary of the beloved microKorg synthesizer, Korg has unveiled a striking Crystal special edition, marking the occasion in style.
The commemorative microKorg Crystal retains all the characteristics of its predecessor, with the only notable difference being its outer shell. Sporting a semi-translucent chassis, this special edition offers a unique glimpse into the inner mechanisms of the unit.
Find out more at korg.com.
Vector Tempera
Vector has introduced Tempera, a fresh multi-timbral sampler with granular synthesis capabilities.
The hardware features a unique 8 x 8 grid interface composed of touch plates, which was not initially shown in the video. Each vertical row, as explained by Jeremy from Red Means Recording, corresponds to a sample slot, allowing for the loading of up to eight stereo samples of different durations. These samples can be triggered using the built-in keyboard or played via a USB/MIDI keyboard.
Find out more at vectorsynth.com.
Elektron Analog Heat +FX
Elektron presents the Analog Heat +FX, a dynamic sound processor offering extensive customisation. Based on the original Analog Heat, this Swedish music company enhances the audio interface with a broad selection of digital effects, flexible routing, and expanded modulation.
It boasts eight stereo analog distortion circuits, seven filter types, a two-band EQ, and a noise gate. The updated version introduces new effects like warble, alongside classics such as chorus, delay, reverb, bit/sample rate reduction, and a compressor. Customisation options include “bass focus” for stereo-to-mono adjustment and the “flow” feature for effect reordering. With a pixel OLED screen, MIDI in/out with DIN Sync out, and versatile I/O jacks, the Analog Heat +FX ensures seamless connectivity.
For more information about Elektron’s Analog Heat +FX, you can visit Elektron.se.
Sonicware LIVEN Texture Lab
Sonicware expands its LIVEN series with Texture Lab, a new sample-based granular synth designed for creating captivating atmospheres. This innovative synth offers a diverse range of sounds, from ethereal pads to experimental noise, thanks to its granular synthesis approach. With the ability to manipulate and transform sounds, Texture Lab allows users to craft elongated and unconventional sonic landscapes.
The synth comes with a selection of preset patterns contributed by early users, while also supporting the import of custom sounds. Its granular processor slices sounds into grains with durations ranging from 2 ms to 1 second, providing extensive transformation possibilities such as grain shape, density, time warp, spatial position, and playback methods. These parameters are conveniently controlled through 10 easily accessible knobs, ensuring intuitive operation.
Find out more at sonicware.com.
Make Noise Spectraphon
Make Noise introduces Spectraphon, a dual Spectral Oscillator by Tom Erbe of Soundhack. It uses real-time spectral analysis and resynthesis to create unique sounds. Make Noise designed Spectraphon with a focus on classical electronic instruments like spectral processors, additive synthesis, vocoders, and resonators.
This module debuts on Make Noise’s new digital hardware platform, offering improved I/O, higher resolutions, and a lower noise floor. Spectraphon features two sides, A and B, operating in Spectral Amplitude Modulation (SAM) or Spectral Array Oscillation (SAO) modes. It provides slide, focus, partials, and FM bus controls for versatile modulation and interaction between the sides.
Head to MakeNoiseMusic.com for more details
Teenage Engineering TP-7
Teenage Engineering unveils the TP-7 audio recorder, ideal for interviews, podcasts, voice memos, live performances, and field recordings. It delivers exceptional sound, music, and voice quality.
The device features a motorised tape reel for visual feedback and easy recording retrieval, complemented by a side-mounted rocker for audio scrubbing. Clear buttons are provided for convenient pausing or stopping of recordings.
Prior to purchase, users can download Teenage Engineering’s companion app, which offers automatic transcription of recordings. The company plans to expand language support and introduce text-to-speech audio in the future.
Head to teenage.engineering
Reason Studios Objekt
Reason Studios presents the Objekt modelling synthesizer, designed to generate distinctive acoustic sounds with customizable characteristics.
The concept behind this software synth is to emulate the essence of an acoustic instrument within a synthesizer framework. It excels at replicating sounds such as bells, mallets, percussion, stringed instruments, natural textures, and organic pads with exceptional authenticity.
Operating within the Reason Rack, the synth comes with a comprehensive library of over 500 preloaded patches, renowned for their dynamic and lifelike qualities. Additionally, an advanced randomiser feature adds instant variation and serves as a source of creative inspiration.
Find out more about Reason’s Objekt modelling synthesizer at reasonstudios.com.
Korg Berlin Acoustic Synthesis Phase_5
Korg Berlin unveils the Acoustic Synthesis Phase_5, an intriguing “acoustic synthesizer” prototype that combines the resonance of physically vibrating bodies with synth-like control. The instrument showcases Korg Berlin’s dedication to merging the physical and electronic realms, aiming to create instruments that possess vitality and responsiveness.
While details remain limited during this early stage, instead of traditional oscillators, the Phase_5 utilizes precisely crafted tuned metal forks to produce distinctive fundamental notes and overtones. This innovative approach sets it apart from conventional synthesis methods.
Stay tuned for further updates as Korg Berlin continues to develop and refine this exciting acoustic synthesizer concept.
Updates will be on korg.berlin
