Icon Pro Audio :: Space 103 Microphone

Reimagining a Legend: The Icon Pro Audio Space 103 Microphone

When it comes to microphones that shape the sound of modern recording, few designs are as instantly recognizable as the legendary large-diaphragm condensers of the past. The new Space 103 from Icon Pro Audio takes that heritage and brings it into the modern era, combining vintage inspiration with cutting-edge design for today’s studios, creators, and broadcasters.

A Legacy, Reimagined

Inspired by the iconic “103” style microphone, the Space 103 delivers a refined balance of warmth, clarity, and precision. Designed for professionals who demand excellence, this large-diaphragm condenser captures every nuance of your performance with stunning accuracy. Whether it’s vocals, instruments, or live broadcast, the Space 103 delivers the presence and character you’d expect from a high-end studio mic, at a fraction of the cost.

 

Superior Sound, Stunning Design

Beneath its sleek exterior lies a meticulously engineered capsule and circuit path that deliver a natural, balanced tone. Its cardioid polar pattern provides focused pickup and impressive off-axis rejection, while the rich midrange, smooth highs, and tight low end make your recordings sit perfectly in the mix—often with little to no EQ required.

The Space 103’s sound is as bold as its design. It captures the energy of vocal performances, the attack of guitars, and the resonance of drums and strings with incredible realism, making it a versatile choice for any session.

Versatility for Every Creator

From studio vocal takes to podcast sessions, the Space 103 shines in every application:

  • Vocals – Capture every detail with pristine clarity and warmth.

  • Instruments – Perfect for acoustic guitar, piano, strings, and brass.

  • Drums & Amps – Reproduce punch and texture with remarkable depth.

  • Broadcasting – Present your voice with smooth, professional presence.

Its transient response and balanced frequency profile make it an ideal workhorse microphone, capable of adapting to nearly any recording environment.

 

What’s in the Box

  • Space 103 Microphone

  • Custom Shock Mount

Everything you need to start capturing high-quality audio right out of the box.

The Space 103: Where Classic Meets Contemporary

With the Space 103, Icon Pro Audio pays tribute to classic microphone design while pushing sonic performance forward. It’s the perfect blend of style, substance, and value—a mic that makes every recording feel larger than life.

👉 Learn more about the Space 103 and explore the full Icon Pro Audio lineup at iconproaudio.com.

JICO :: Scratch 101 Entry-Level DJ Stylus Now Available

JICO SKRATCH 101: An Accessible Stylus for the Next Generation of DJs

JICO has introduced the SKRATCH 101, a new entry-level stylus built for aspiring DJs ready to explore the art of vinyl mixing and scratching. Designed under the company’s C-REVO line, this stylus brings JICO’s trusted craftsmanship to a wider audience, making it easier for newcomers to experience the feel of true analog performance.

Built for Beginners, Backed by Experience

The SKRATCH 101 is part of JICO’s “N44” series, known for its versatility and reliability. It was developed specifically for beginner DJs who want to practice techniques like scratching, beat juggling, and mixing with confidence. Despite being entry-level, it inherits JICO’s attention to precision, offering stable tracking even during heavy performance use.

Key Features

  • Ruby Tip: The stylus uses a natural solid ruby tip—chosen for its sound clarity and affordability while maintaining smooth groove contact.

  • Spherical Shape: A 0.3 mm spherical tip ensures consistent tracking across a variety of records.

  • Aluminum Cantilever: Lightweight and responsive for improved accuracy and reduced distortion.

  • Wide Frequency Response: Covers the full 20 Hz to 20 kHz range for balanced, dynamic sound.

  • Broad Compatibility: Works seamlessly with JICO MM cartridges like the J44 series as well as classic Shure M44 cartridges.

Inspired by DJ Culture

The SKRATCH 101 was created after JICO’s president visited the Beat Junkie Institute of Sound in the U.S., where he witnessed students learning on vinyl turntables. Realizing that cost was a major barrier for new DJs, JICO set out to design a stylus that maintained the company’s sonic quality while remaining accessible to those just starting their journey.

Even the name “101” reflects its mission—symbolizing a “first class” in DJing, an introduction to the craft for anyone ready to drop the needle and learn.

The JICO SKRATCH 101 stands out as a durable, affordable, and inspiring tool for DJs looking to develop their skills on vinyl. It bridges the gap between professional performance and accessibility, allowing new artists to experience authentic turntablism with confidence. Whether for practice sessions, live use, or exploring DVS systems, the SKRATCH 101 is a worthy companion for anyone beginning their DJ path.

Torso Electronics :: S-4 Sculpting Sampler

Introducing the Torso S-4: Sculpting Sampler Extraordinaire

The Torso S-4 is designed to operate at the intersection of sample-based sound design and live performance — not merely a sampler, but a modular “sound sculpting” instrument. Its tagline—“sculpting sampler”—captures exactly what Torso aims for: a hybrid of expressive audio mangling, real-time processing, and performance control.

With the release of OS 2.0, the product matured significantly, adding features like macro controls, scenes, varispeed recording, and more dynamic modulation options.

Key Features & Architecture

Signal Chain & Audio Engine

  • 4 parallel stereo tracks, each with a five-stage audio device chain:

    1. Material — the source (sample playback, live recording, overdub)

    2. Granular — grain cloud generation from a buffer with grain control

    3. Filter — a 48-band tuned resonator filter bank with morphing and classic filters

    4. Colour — distortion, bit reduction, compression, noise, and more

    5. Space — stereo delay & reverb, with freeze and multiple delay algorithms

  • Modulation: Each track features 4 configurable modulators (LFOs, envelopes, random sources, envelope follower, etc.), with unlimited mapping destinations and even cross-modulation.

  • Scenes / Snapshots: Up to 128 scenes per project, each capturing the full state of the machine and samples, which can be triggered live or via MIDI.

  • Macro / Perform Mode: Map multiple parameters across tracks and devices to up to 8 knobs and 4 punch-effect buttons, enabling expressive gestural control.

  • Temp Mode: A performance feature that temporarily morphs parameter states while held, then reverts when released.

  • Disc Playback: Stream audio directly from internal storage or external media — perfect for longer samples, loops, or stems.

  • Envelope Follower (“Follow”): A modulation source tied to a track’s audio input or output, allowing dynamics to modulate parameters in real time.

Hardware & Connectivity

  • USB-C interface (class-compliant, 10 in / 10 out audio)

  • 2 line inputs, 2 line outputs, stereo headphone out

  • MIDI in/out via 3.5 mm TRS (Type A)

  • Sync input/output (3.5 mm)

  • WiFi with Ableton Link sync

  • 9 encoders, 21 RGB backlit buttons, and a 3.5″ color LCD display

  • Internal memory: 4 GB (expandable via USB)

  • Audio resolution: 24-bit / 48 kHz stereo

  • Size and weight: 242 × 156 × 39 mm, ≈ 820 g

What Makes the S-4 Stand Out

1. Expressive Sculpting & Sound Transformation

The S-4 doesn’t just playback samples — it sculpts them. With granular engines, rich modulation routing, and real-time effects, users can push ordinary recordings into evolving textures, glitches, granular clouds, or pitch-shifted soundscapes.

2. Performability & Gestural Control

The macro engine, scenes, TEMP mode, and robust modulation scheme make the S-4 a live instrument as much as a studio tool.

3. Sampling & Recording Flexibility

Record from external audio, resample internal tracks, or load long forms of audio via Disc mode. This flexibility makes it ideal for field recordings, live inputs, and studio workflows alike.

4. Modular-Like Architecture in a Compact Box

The S-4 offers a modular routing mindset without the need for patch cables — powerful and portable.

5. Continual Firmware Improvements

Torso is committed to ongoing development, with major firmware updates adding features and refining workflows.

Use Cases & Applications

  1. Ambient Soundscapes – Transform pads, field recordings, or vocals into lush evolving textures.

  2. Live Performance Effects Box – Route instruments or mics through the S-4 and sculpt in real time.

  3. Sample-Based Composition – Load stems and reshape them with filters, effects, and scenes.

  4. Glitch & Rhythmic Textures – Use granular bursts, modulators, and scene switching for dynamic grooves.

  5. Generative Sound Design – Cross-modulate modulators for unpredictable, evolving results.

  6. Hybrid MIDI Instrument – Play samples from a keyboard or sequencer with morphing parameters.

 

The Torso S-4 Sculpting Sampler is more than a sampler — it’s a hands-on creative playground for sound designers, performers, and producers who want to move beyond playback into transformation. Whether sculpting delicate ambient soundscapes, mangling samples into glitch textures, or pushing live inputs into otherworldly forms, the S-4 offers a unique and inspiring workflow.

ESI :: XSynth – The Ultra-Thin “Do-Everything” Synth You Can Throw in a Backpack

The ESI Xsynth is a breakthrough instrument that combines a polyphonic aftertouch keyboard, a powerful virtual-analog synth engine, and a professional audio/MIDI interface into one sleek, ultra-portable design. Built for modern musicians and producers, it’s designed to slip easily into a backpack while delivering studio-quality sound and expressive performance anywhere inspiration strikes.

With its slim aluminum body, versatile connectivity, and deep sound-shaping tools, the Xsynth is more than just a compact keyboard — it’s a complete creative hub for the stage, studio, or road.

What is Xsynth?

Xsynth is a 25-key, ultra-flat instrument that merges three roles:

  • Standalone synth (virtual-analog subtractive engine)

  • USB audio/MIDI interface (class-compliant)

  • Master keyboard (polyphonic aftertouch, DAW control)

ESI pitches it as a “musical sketchbook” that travels anywhere, works on its own or with a DAW, and can sit at the center of a minimalist setup.

Hardware & Design: Ultra-Flat, Road-Friendly

Physically, Xsynth is closer to a metal tablet than a typical mini-synth: roughly 387 × 148 × 27 mm and about ~634 g. The chassis feels solid enough to live in a backpack, and the low-profile encoders don’t snag. Keys are “full-size” in width, but with very short travel (~2 mm)—a necessary compromise for the form factor.

Controls & I/O
Expect compact encoders and rubberized “smart” buttons, plus a minimal display. Connections include USB-C (power + audio/MIDI), 3.5 mm TRS MIDI in/out, line/headphone out, and aux in—handy if you want to route/monitor external audio through the built-in interface.

Playability & Expressiveness: Poly Aftertouch on the Go

Polyphonic aftertouch at this size/price is rare and the headline feature here. Reviewers note it’s genuinely expressive, though the short key travel means pressure control can take practice. Still: being able to press individual notes for vibrato/brightness/FX depth from such a tiny board is a big win for mobile sessions.

Sound Engine: Small Body, Serious Synthesis

Under the hood is a digital subtractive engine with:

  • 3 oscillators (classic waveforms plus more unusual material—yes, field recordings & percussive content)

  • 10-voice polyphony

  • Multimode filter, 3 LFOs, 3 AHDSR envelopes

  • Mod matrix (up to 16 slots)

  • Ring mod, arpeggiator, glide, octave

  • Onboard FX (three slots) and EQ

  • 512 patches (4×128)

Reality check: you can’t load your own samples—the engine draws on internal ROM/waveforms. If you want true sampler behavior, pair Xsynth with your DAW, not the internal synth.

Audio/MIDI Interface Built-In

Plug via USB-C and it behaves as a class-compliant audio/MIDI interface (24-bit, up to high sample rates) while simultaneously serving as keyboard + synth. That means one cable to your laptop/tablet for playing, recording the internal synth, and monitoring external sources. For mobile creators, this is where Xsynth separates from slim controllers.

DAW & Editor Workflow

ESI provides an editor (desktop/tablet) for deeper patching, curve tweaks, and housekeeping. For most users, the editor + encoders combo is the sweet spot: decent immediacy on-device, deeper dives off-device.

Real-World Impressions: What Reviewers & Early Users Say

  • Portability & build: “Toss-in-a-backpack” tough, with premium-feeling metal/plastic mix; encoders stay out of the way.

  • Keys & aftertouch: Expressive poly AT, but the 2 mm stroke is a love-it/learn-it situation. Expect a different feel than a springy synth action.

  • Sound & features: The engine is richer than you’d expect at this size; mod matrix, FX, and arpeggiator invite real sound design, not just preset surfing.

  • UI trade-offs: With a compact panel there’s some menu-diving; not a dealbreaker, just part of the footprint.

Who It’s For

Perfect for:

  • Laptop producers who want a single device to play, record, and control on the go

  • Ambient/sound-design folks who’ll exploit poly aftertouch and the textural oscillator set

  • Live performers needing an ultra-portable backup synth/controller/interface

Verdict

The ESI Xsynth is more than just an ultra-thin keyboard — it’s a powerful all-in-one solution for modern music makers. By combining a polyphonic aftertouch keybed, a feature-rich synth engine, and a high-quality audio/MIDI interface into a sleek, travel-ready design, it sets itself apart as the ultimate companion for producers on the go.

Whether you’re sketching new ideas, performing live, or integrating it into your studio setup, the Xsynth offers a unique balance of portability, playability, and professional-grade sound. For musicians seeking a compact yet inspiring instrument that goes wherever creativity strikes, this little powerhouse more than delivers.

Mixware :: NEW CDJ-3000X Cases from Headliner & Magma

New Headliner and Magma Cases for the AlphaTheta CDJ-3000X

With the release of the new AlphaTheta CDJ-3000X, both Headliner LA and Magma have launched protective case solutions to keep this flagship player secure on the road or in the booth. Pre-orders are now open — secure inventory early to meet demand.

Highland Series Watertight Cases

Headliner Highland Series Watertight Case for CDJ-3000X 

  • Rugged polypropylene impact-resistant shell

  • Watertight & dustproof seal

  • Soft foam lid lining

  • Quick-open latches with secure closure

  • Accessory storage under unit

Headliner Highland Series Watertight Case for DJM-A9

  • Same rugged polypropylene construction

  • Watertight & dustproof seal

  • Soft foam lid lining

  • Quick-open latches

  • Accessory storage under unit

Flight Cases

Headliner Flight Case for CDJ-3000X

  • 3/8” (9mm) plywood construction

  • Heavy-duty steel ball corners

  • Recessed spring-loaded padded handles

  • Butterfly latches with padlock staples

  • Easy locking tongue and groove lid

  • 1” high-density foam interior

Headliner Pitch Black Flight Case for CDJ-3000X

  • Same construction with Pitch Black finish

Pro-Fit

Pro-Fit Case for CDJ-3000X

  • Custom-made for the CDJ-3000X

  • Lightweight molded EVA shell with water-resistant polyester exterior

  • Custom-molded interior with cable compartment

  • Includes removable shoulder strap with all-metal hooks and latches

Multi-Format Flight Cases

Magma Multi-Format Flight Case Fits CDJ-3000X

  • Holds a CDJ player or 4-channel mixer

  • Fits CDJ-3000X, CDJ-3000, DJM-900 NXS2, XDJ-1000, Headliner R4, Xone 96, and more

  • 9mm vinyl-laminated plywood

  • Sturdy aluminum profiles

  • Heavy-duty butterfly latches

Magma Multi-Format Flight Case (All Black)

  • Same design in an all-black finish

CTRL Case

  • Magma CTRL Case CDJ-3000X

    • Hardshell case custom-designed for the CDJ-3000X

    • Lightweight & rigid Durashock molded EVA shell

    • Customizable foam interior fits 12” players or mixers (CDJ-3000, DJM-900 NXS2, and more)

    • Includes removable shoulder strap

These new cases from Headliner LA and Magma ensure DJs have professional-grade protection options ready as the CDJ-3000X hits the market. Pre-orders are open now — place orders early to secure inventory.

Mixware :: Rane One MKII Accessory Guide

Rane One MKII Compatibility Update

The Rane One MKII was recently announced and we have compatible Headliner & Magma cases in stock and ready to ship! Secure your order now to stay ahead of the demand! 

HEADLINER FLIGHT CASE FOR RANE ONE MKII AND RANE ONE W/ LAPTOP PLATFORM AND WHEELS 

SKU: HL10005

Now compatible w/ Rane One MKII

More Info

 

HEADLINER PRO-FIT CASE FOR RANE ONE MKII AND RANE ONE

SKU: HL12003

Now compatible w/ Rane One MKII

More Info

MAGMA DJ CONTROLLER WORKSTATION RANE ONE MKII AND RANE ONE

SKU: MGA41007

Now compatible w/ Rane One MKII

More Info

HEADLINER PRO-FIT CASE FOR RANE ONE MKII AND RANE ONE

SKU: HL12003

Now compatible w/ Rane One MKII

More Info

Note: Decksaver Rane One cover DS-PC-RANE1 will not fit the Rane One MKII. 

A new cover will be announced soon.

EFNOTE :: EFNOTE Pro V2.0 – Available Now

EFNOTE PRO v2.0: Craft Your Own Drum Voice with User Tones + Expanded Instruments

EFNOTE PRO’s new v2.0 firmware unlocks powerful sound design tools built for the stage and the studio. With User Tone (UT) creation, Overlay layering, and a streamlined Instrument Expansion (IX) workflow, you can shape a kit that truly sounds like you.

What’s new in v2.0

User Tone (UT)
Load your own audio into EFNOTE Desktop Tools (Mac/Windows) to build dynamics-sensitive custom drum tones, then send them to the PRO module and assign them to pads. UTs also work as overlays, so you can blend your samples with EFNOTE’s pristine presets for extra snap, weight, or texture. (UT assignment is for kick/snare/toms.)

Overlay Tone (Layering)
Add elements like tambourines, EDM-style kicks, attack enhancers, percussion, and classic e-drum hits (eKick/eSnare/eClap) on top of existing kit pieces to cut through a mix or dial in genre-specific character.

Improved Instrument Expansion (IX)
Browse, install, and manage EFNOTE’s add-on instrument packs right from the new Desktop Tools app—slot management is simpler, and installations no longer interrupt your flow. (IX is also for kick/snare/toms.)

Why it matters for live and studio

  • Signature sound, consistently: Build a kit that carries your sonic identity from rehearsal to FOH without mic bleed, room variables, or inconsistent backline.

  • Fast creative moves: Drag-and-drop your own hits or layers to tailor attack, body, and ambience to the venue or the track.

  • Curated add-ons: Expand with professionally recorded IX packs—from timeless staples to current trends—captured and mastered by EFNOTE.

Quick start: from idea to pad in minutes

  1. Update EFNOTE PRO to v2.0
    Download the latest firmware from the EFNOTE PRO page and follow the on-screen guidance.

  2. Install EFNOTE Desktop Tools (Mac/Windows)
    Desktop Tools is where you’ll manage both UT and IX for v2.0.

  3. Create a User Tone (UT)
    Drag your audio into Desktop Tools to build a dynamics-sensitive UT, transfer it to the module, then assign it to a kick/snare/tom pad. If you like, enable Overlay to blend it with the preset tone.

  4. Explore Instrument Expansions (IX)
    Use Desktop Tools to browse and install IX packs directly—no reboot required—and manage slots as your library grows.

UT & IX at a glance (helpful limits/specs)

  • Supported UT formats: WAV at 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz, 16/24/32-bit

  • Dynamics layers per UT: up to 4 audio layers

  • UT capacity: store up to 80 UTs; total time about 110 s mono / 55 s stereo @48 kHz (about 120 s mono / 60 s stereo @44.1 kHz; varies by files)

  • Pad assignment: UT/IX are assignable to kick/snare/toms; UTs can be tuned and muffled, and used as overlays

Tips for great results

  • Layer with intent: Use a short, bright UT for “attack” overlays and a longer sample for body/room. Keep gain staging tasteful to preserve EFNOTE’s natural dynamics.

  • Build show-ready sets: Save multiple kits that swap UT/IX choices for different songs or venues; pair with EFNOTE’s set-list features for quick transitions on stage.

Streetwise Named Exclusive East Coast Representative for Torso Electronics

September 1, 2025 – Streetwise Sales, a leading independent manufacturers’ representative firm in the Pro Audio, DJ, Lighting, and Musical Instrument markets, is proud to announce its appointment as the exclusive East Coast sales representative for Torso Electronics, the innovative Danish company redefining electronic music performance and production tools.

 

Founded in Copenhagen, Torso Electronics has gained international acclaim for its groundbreaking T-1 Algorithmic Sequencer and the newly released S4 Sculpting Sampler—forward-thinking hardware designs that merge creative freedom with intuitive control. Their instruments empower musicians, producers, and performers to explore new frontiers in electronic composition.

As Torso Electronics’ exclusive East Coast partner, Streetwise Sales will manage dealer relationships, expand sales opportunities, and provide in-field support to grow the brand’s presence throughout one of the most influential regions of the U.S. music market.

 

“We are thrilled to represent Torso Electronics exclusively on the East Coast,” said Amos Damon, Principal at Streetwise Sales. “Torso is quickly building a reputation as a true innovator with products that push creative boundaries. We look forward to introducing their instruments to our dealer network and helping more musicians discover their creative power.”

 

Streetwise Sales, established in 2013, continues to expand its portfolio of forward-thinking brands. By partnering with Torso Electronics, the firm strengthens its commitment to representing products that inspire creativity and set new industry standards.

About Torso Electronics

Torso Electronics is a Copenhagen-based design company specializing in innovative tools for modern electronic musicians. With a focus on minimalism, playability, and creative expression, their products—such as the T-1 Algorithmic Sequencer and S4 Sculpting Sampler—are embraced by artists worldwide.

About Streetwise Sales

Streetwise Sales is an independent manufacturers’ representative firm covering the East Coast of the United States. With a focus on Pro Audio, DJ, Lighting, and MI products, Streetwise provides dealers with exceptional support, product training, merchandising, and marketing solutions.

For more information please visit the Torso Electronics website, or contact your Streetwise Sales rep.

iCON Pro Audio :: AirMon In-Ear Monitor Giveaway – You Choose the Prize!

AirMon In-Ear Monitor Giveaway – You Choose the Prize!

This August, your perfect in-ear monitor setup is just a few clicks away! Whether you’re commanding the stage or refining your studio mix, we’re giving you the power to choose the monitoring system that fits your needs.

The Prize: Your Choice of AirMon System

We’re picking one lucky winner to receive their ideal monitoring rig—designed to match how you make music.

Choose between:

AirMon Pro

A studio-ready digital wireless monitoring system built for precision. Ideal for short-range use where ultra-low latency and pristine sound are essential. Perfect for producers, engineers, and content creators who demand clarity and detail.

OR

AirMon UHF

A rock-solid UHF wireless IEM system made for the stage. With longer range and rugged reliability, it’s trusted by gigging and touring musicians around the world. Your secret weapon for total freedom during live performances.

How to Enter:

  1. Fill Out the Entry Form – Just a few quick details, and you’re in.

  2. Follow Us on Social Media – Be the first to hear about new gear drops and future giveaways.

  3. Share the Contest – Spread the word and boost your chances!

Deadline to Enter:
Submit your entry by August 31, 2025, at 11:59 PM ET

Step into the spotlight with total confidence.
Hear every note the way it was meant to be heard.
Enter now and choose the monitoring system that suits your sound.

CLICK HERE TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

Arturia :: MiniFreak Just Got a Vocoder

Arturia MiniFreak Just Got a Vocoder – Here’s Everything You Need to Know

The MiniFreak has always been a playground for sonic exploration, but now Arturia has taken things to the next level with a brand-new Vocoder FX update that gives this already-powerful hybrid synth even more creative potential. Whether you’re looking to create robotic vocal hooks, add character to your synth patches, or just explore wild spectral textures, this update has something for everyone.

What’s New in the MiniFreak Vocoder Update?

This exciting firmware update introduces a completely new Vocoder FX engine built right into MiniFreak’s flexible architecture. It allows you to process your voice or any audio input—or even use the internal synth sounds themselves—for rich, formant-shifting effects and dynamic vocal textures.

Here’s a breakdown of everything that’s new:

New Vocoder FX

The centerpiece of the update is the brand-new Vocoder FX, a powerful and intuitive effect that works in two modes:

  • Ext Vocoder – Use an external audio input, like a microphone or instrument, and process it with the MiniFreak’s synth engine. This is where you can get those classic vocoded vocals or transform other signals into harmonically-rich textures.

  • Self Vocoder – No mic? No problem. In this mode, the vocoder works internally, processing the MiniFreak’s own synth engine. It acts like a creative filter bank, perfect for reshaping patches into futuristic, spectral sounds—without the need for any external input.

Four Vocoder Sub-Types

Both vocoder modes include four sub-types, giving you a wide palette of vocoder tones and responses:

  • Clean – High-definition, modern vocoder sound with maximum clarity and intelligibility.

  • Vintage – Modeled after classic vocoder units from the ’70s and ’80s, adding nostalgic coloration.

  • Narrow – Focused and resonant for edgy, experimental effects.

  • Gated – Responsive and percussive; great for transforming transients or creating rhythmic pulses.

These can be accessed quickly using Shift + Type, letting you cycle through creative flavors with ease.

Vocoder Parameters – Tailor Your Sound

Each vocoder type includes its own set of editable parameters for deep control:

In Self Mode:

  • Decay – Controls how long the processed signal rings out.

  • Formant Shift – Alters the tonal profile for alien voices or frequency-bending textures.

  • Dry/Wet – Blend the raw synth signal with the vocoded version for perfect balance.

In Ext In Mode:

  • Spectrum – Adjust how much frequency content is analyzed for vocoding, dramatically changing the output.

  • Formant Shift / Gate Threshold – Shift tone or set the sensitivity level in Gated mode.

  • Dry/Wet – Mix your voice or external signal with the vocoded version for dramatic or subtle results.

New Factory Presets and Sounds

To help you jump right in, Arturia has included a new factory sound bank featuring 12 vocoder-powered presets. Half of these use the Ext Vocoder mode (great with a mic), while the other half use Self Vocoder mode and require no external input at all.

Expect everything from:

  • Classic robotic vocals

  • Vintage vocoded textures

  • Crystalline pads and laser-like stabs

  • Plucky, percussive gated sounds

  • Experimental sound design you didn’t know you needed

MiniFreak Vocoder Edition – A Fresh Look with Added Tools

To coincide with this update, Arturia has also released the MiniFreak Vocoder Edition, which includes:

  • A sleek new white and orange casing

  • A gooseneck microphone and stand, so you’re ready to vocode right out of the box

  • The new Vocoder FX and preset bank pre-installed

This edition is perfect for performers or producers who want the full vocoding experience without needing to hunt down extra gear.

5 Cool Things to Try with the MiniFreak Vocoder

  1. Robot Voice FX – Load up Ext Vocoder, plug in the mic, and play chords while speaking for classic vocoded vocal lines.

  2. Spectral Sound Design – Use Self Vocoder to filter and reshape any patch into something brand-new.

  3. Gated Beats – Feed in rhythmic sounds and use the Gated sub-type for percussive, plucky textures.

  4. Formant Shifting – Morph your sound’s character dramatically for surreal, animated tones.

  5. Layer Vocoder with Dry/Wet Control – Create thick, layered sounds by blending dry synth tones with vocoded textures.

Ready to Update?

The MiniFreak Vocoder Update is available now as a free firmware download for all MiniFreak users. Just head to Arturia’s official site for instructions and software.

And if you’re looking to jump into the world of vocoding for the first time, the MiniFreak Vocoder Edition gives you everything you need to start exploring right away—stylish redesign and mic included.

MiniFreak was already a sound designer’s dream. Now, it can sing, speak, and glitch like never before. Don’t sleep on this update—it’s one of Arturia’s most exciting additions yet.