Bang & Olufsen has launched the Atelier Limited Edition Art Deco, a striking new sound system that reimagines the brand’s iconic Beolab 28 speakers and Beovision Theatre through the lens of Art Deco – the defining aesthetic of the 1920s and the decade of Bang & Olufsen’s founding.
“This edition is a tribute to our origins and our journey,” says Bang & Olufsen CEO Kristian Teär. “It’s a fusion of design heritage and technical mastery, crafted to celebrate 100 years of innovation through timeless form,” he continues.
With the same sculptural elegance and refined details that made Art Deco an enduring icon, the Atelier Limited Edition Art Deco pays homage to a century of design excellence and acoustic craftsmanship by drawing on Art Deco’s bold geometry, rich materiality, and exquisite craftsmanship. Limited to just 100 units globally, this release marks a rare convergence of performance and artistry.
Crafted from dark rosewood and anodised in chestnut aluminium, the system showcases alternating lamella panels in tapered wood and straight aluminium, evoking the rhythmic facade of classic Art Deco architecture. A matching rosewood case handcrafted at Bang & Olufsen’s headquarters in Struer houses the engraved Beoremote, finished in chestnut aluminium and certificates of authenticity. The aluminium surfaces feature a precision-etched geometric motif blending modern machining with classic ornamentation. Hidden within the pattern, 100 engraved strokes subtly commemorate each year of Bang & Olufsen’s legacy.
The attention to detail and tactility continues with Beosound Theatre’s newly introduced wooden top cover, sculpted in a radial pattern inspired by Art Deco sunburst motifs. Beyond its visual elegance, the cover enhances acoustic transparency, exemplifying Bang & Olufsen’s commitment to harmonising form and function. The Beolab 28’s floating acoustic lens, encircled by a finely detailed radial ring, anchors the system as a sculptural centrepiece.
The Atelier Limited Edition Art Deco starts from 65,000 USD, excluding the screen and is available exclusively at select Bang & Olufsen stores.
Moog Music has unveiled the Moog Messenger, a compact yet powerful monophonic analog synthesizer designed to deliver the iconic Moog sound to a new generation of musicians. Officially announced today and available beginning early summer, Messenger blends timeless analog warmth with innovative functionality, like dynamic wavefolding, a next-generation ladder filter with resonance bass compensation, and an intuitive hands-on interface. This makes it an inspiring instrument for both newcomers to synthesis and seasoned musicians seeking depth and expressiveness. With its performance-ready design and versatile sound engine, Messenger seamlessly integrates into any studio, live performance setup, or modular rig. Synth collectors who value the Moog sound, brand, and legacy will also appreciate its craftsmanship and sonic capabilities.
An Icon That Inspires For over six decades, Moog synthesizers have profoundly influenced music culture, shaping genres from progressive rock and jazz fusion to electronic dance music. Pioneering artists such as Wendy Carlos, whose 1968 album Switched-On Bach showcased the synthesizer’s versatility, and bands like Emerson, Lake and Palmer and Kraftwerk, who integrated Moog’s distinctive sounds into their groundbreaking work, have cemented its legacy.
The Moog Messenger continues this tradition of developing innovative musical tools for forward-thinking artists. It represents a significant evolution in Moog’s synthesizer lineage, blending the company’s rich heritage with new sonic possibilities and enhanced playability. Designed for both aspiring and professional musicians, producers, and sound designers, Messenger provides an accessible yet powerful tool for creative exploration.
“With Messenger, we aim to honour Moog’s rich heritage while embracing the future of analog synthesis,” said Joe Richardson, Moog Music President and inMusic EVP, Chief Commercial Officer. “This instrument is crafted for musicians and producers seeking a portable, powerful monosynth that delivers the iconic Moog sound, enhanced with modern features and intuitive controls.”
Timeless and Intuitive Design: Building upon the DNA of Moog’s iconic monosynths—such as the Minimoog Model D, Voyager, Grandmother, and Subsequent 37—Messenger introduces innovative circuits within a familiar format, delivering classic analog sound with modern enhancements.
Modern Wavefolding Oscillators: Two continuously variable-shape voltage-controlled oscillators (VCOs) with unique hybrid wavefolders, sync, and frequency modulation (FM) capabilities allow for rich harmonic textures and dynamic overtones. A sub-oscillator with a continuously variable waveshape further adds deep, powerful low-end.
Next-Generation Ladder Filter with Resonance Bass Compensation: The legendary Moog transistor ladder filter has been reimagined with a unique pole-mixing design, offering 4-pole low-pass, 2-pole low-pass, band-pass, and high-pass responses. The resonance bass compensation (RES BASS) switch preserves low-end power at high resonance settings, ensuring full-bodied sound across the spectrum. The classic response is also available.
Full-Size Keys with Expressive Control: Messenger features 32 semi-weighted full-size keys with velocity and aftertouch, providing a premium playing experience suitable for both performance and studio use. Its robust metal panel houses 256 presets, offering immediate access to a wide range of sounds and textures.
Hands-On, Performance-Ready Layout: A knob-per-function control scheme ensures immediacy and ease of use, allowing musicians to shape sounds instantly without navigating complex menus.
Integrated Sequencer and Arpeggiator: A 64-step sequencer with probability-based generative behavior and parameter recording, along with a versatile arpeggiator offering multiple pattern modes and rhythmic programming, enable real-time composition and dynamic live performances.
Sound Design and Modulation Playground: Two loopable ADSR envelopes with velocity responsiveness and multi-trigger capabilities, along with two LFOs—one variable shape with sync and reset, and one triangle-wave tied to the modulation wheel—provide extensive modulation options for creative sound design.
Comprehensive Connectivity: Messenger integrates seamlessly into any setup with six analog control voltage (CV) patch points, an external audio input to the filter, expression and sustain pedal inputs, and MIDI In/Out via both 5-pin DIN and USB-C, ensuring compatibility with DAWs, modular systems, and other hardware synthesizers.
Compact, Powerful, and Accessible: Delivering the depth and sonic character of Moog’s legacy in a compact, performance-ready format, Messenger is Moog’s most accessible analog synthesizer to date, making it an indispensable tool for musicians and producers alike.
“Messenger embodies our commitment to advancing analog synthesis while staying true to the Moog legacy and innovative spirit of Dr. Robert Moog,” said Erik Norlander, Director of Keyboard Product Development at inMusic. “Our goal was to create a synthesizer that invites immediate exploration—welcoming first-time Moog players and offering the depth and expressiveness that experienced musicians expect. With wavefolding oscillators, a dynamic shape sub-oscillator, a next-generation ladder filter, and comprehensive connectivity options, Messenger is as inspiring as it is accessible.”
To kick off the campaign, Akai Professional released “Arrival of the Messenger,” a short film introducing the MPC Live III as a catalyst for connection and creativity, where waveforms carry hidden messages and sound becomes a shared experience. “Arrival of the Messenger” features original music by Michael Stein, created using the new Moog Messenger.
Availability and Pricing The Moog Messenger is available at select retailers worldwide starting Monday, June 2 for $899 USD.
To learn more about Moog Messenger, please visit www.moogmusic.com. Join the conversation on social media by following @MoogSynthesizers on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube and @MoogMusicInc on Facebook, and X.
Groove Synthesis has announced the 3rd Wave 8M – a compact desktop synthesiser to a more accessible price point, without compromising on sound quality or core features.
Building on the success of the flagship 24-voice 3rd Wave models 24K and 24M, the new 8M features 8 voices of polyphony and bi-timbral operation in a streamlined desktop format. Priced at $1,999 USD, the 8M delivers the same premium sound quality and cutting-edge synthesis capabilities that have made Groove Synthesis a favourite among producers, composers, and performers worldwide.
“We created the 8M to bring the distinct 3rd Wave sonic character and sound design capabilities to more musicians and producers,” said Bob Coover, co-founder of Groove Synthesis. “This isn’t a watered-down version of our flagship 24-voice models. The signal processing chain, analog electronics, and the sound are the same as on the 24. The 8M just makes the 3rd Wave experience accessible to musicians, sound designers, and producers who don’t need the full scale system.”
The 3rd Wave 8M maintains complete patch compatibility with the 24-voice 3rd Wave models, allowing users to seamlessly integrate the 8M into existing setups or upgrade to larger models in the future. The streamlined user interface focuses on performance-oriented controls while utilizing a larger, more intuitive display for deep sound design capabilities.
Key features of the 3rd Wave 8M include:
8-Voice Polyphony: Full 3rd Wave sound engine with 8 voices and three oscillators per voice
Complete Synthesis Toolset: Wavetable synthesis, analog-style synthesis, FM, and sampling
Bi-timbral: Two independent parts for layering and splitting
Complete Patch Compatibility: Seamless integration with 24-voice 3rd Wave models
8 Analog Filters and Output Stage: The same premium analog filters and output circuit design as flagship 24-voice models, 24K and 24M
Streamlined Interface: Performance-oriented, expressive control set with larger display
Multiple Outputs: 4 balanced outputs for flexible studio integration
Compact Design: Smaller footprint ideal for desktop or touring setups
“As a bunch of synth enthusiasts ourselves, we know that the sound is everything,” said Andrew Silverman, co-founder of Groove Synthesis. “The 8M has the full DNA of our flagship models. We’ve carefully considered what matters most to musicians and sound designers, preserving the elements that define our sound while creating a more accessible entry point to the 3rd Wave sonic universe.”
The 3rd Wave 8M continues the Groove Synthesis tradition of combining vintage inspiration with modern capabilities. While the 3rd Wave has roots in the classic digital wavetable synths of the past, it takes that concept into the 21st century with a lush, expansive sound that’s a product of its expanded wavetables and warm, organic analog filters. The intuitive, performance-focused interface avoids menu diving for a natural control flow, preserving and adapting the vital parts of the keyboard’s controls in a compact format.
Availability
The 3rd Wave 8M is expected to be available and shipping in July 2025 for $1,999 USD. For more information and to find a dealer, visit www.groovesynthesis.com.
Frap Tools, a manufacturer of Eurorack modules and accessories alongside professional audio compressors in the 500-Series format, latest venture into the world of high-end keyboard synthesizers with its introduction of MAGNOLIA — announced as an 8-VOICE ANALOG THRU-ZERO FM SYNTHESIZER built to unlock every sound associated with ‘West Coast’ modular synthesis through a classic keyboard interface.
As an 8-VOICE ANALOG THRU-ZERO FM SYNTHESIZER, MAGNOLIA unlocks every sound associated with the so-called ‘West Coast’ modular synthesis world with waveshapers, wavefolders, and, most importantly, analog linear TZFM(Through-Zero Frequency Modulation) Indeed, its intentions are made clear from the outset by the on point wording worked tastefully into its (initial) top panel design. No need to necessarily remain there, though, for fat resonant filters and powerful analogue oscillators also allow for more traditional subtractive synthesis sounds. And although a deep and flexible modulation section encourages complex patches with the push of a button and twist of a knob, switching modulations on and off with the TOGGLE function, it is always easy to keep track of what is going on thanks to the inclusion of LEDs (Light-Emitting Diodes) on every source and destination.
Digging deeper, MAGNOLIA features eight analogue voices with two oscillators — carrier and modulator — and 24 dB/oct resonant HIGH-PASS and LOW-PASS filters; the carrier oscillator has a through-zero core for precise, sideband-rich analogue FM (Frequency Modulation) sounds, so crystal-like pads to growling basses are available to all with the greatest of ease, while FM can be applied to the filters. Furthermore, sculpting sounds that have not been heard before on analogue polysynths are now perfectly possible, thanks to MAGNOLIA’s unique signal flow — think continuously variable waveform shapes and a wavefolder circuit per voice!
Those two oscillators are derived from Frap Tools’ BRENSO (https://frap.tools/products/brenso/), a Euroack module readily representing its creator’s primary analogue source of articulated waveforms whose degree of entanglement can be precisely set by the musician. MAGNOLIA’s Oscillator 1 is the ‘West Coast’ one with TZFM, wavefolder, and FLIP SYNC, while Oscillator 2 is the ‘East Coast’ one, with PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) and fine-tune. Whether wanting experimental FM sounds or punchy synth brass, they are always at anyone’s service. Speaking of Frap Tools’ unique modular soul, MAGNOLIA’s filter section is derived from CUNSA (https://frap.tools/products/cunsa/) — itself a quadruple analogue ping-able multimode resonant filter, saturator, mixer, and oscillator, no less!
Musically, MAGNOLIA sports a keyboard from fellow Italians FATAR, with polyphonic aftertouch capabilities for enhanced expressiveness, while a per-part ARPEGGIATOR and per-part 16-step SEQ (sequencer) serve to creatively complement the synthesizer still further. Features briefly worth drawing attention to here by way of ending on some more high notes include MAGNOLIA’s bi-timbral programs (with SINGLE, MORPH, DUAL, and SPLIT MODES); all-analogue signal path; three loop-able DAHDSR (DELAY, ATTACK, HOLD, DECAY, SUSTAIN, and RELEASE) envelopes; three digital LFOs (Low Frequency Oscillators); and 512 preset memory slots.
Anyone attending SUPERBOOTH25, May 8-10, FEZ-Berlin, Germany can get up close and personal with two MAGNOLIA pre-production units by swinging by Booth B049 there. Their creatorswill be showcasing them personally, eager to show the results of their hard work, while providing a passionate warm welcome. Frap Tools aim to release MAGNOLIA as a production product by the end of summer, albeit with some differences evident by then. The interface will likely be more refined, featuring digital effects, while some features currently under evaluation could conceivably be removed.
While Frap Tools’ Eurorack modules and accessories, plus professional audio compressors in the 500-Series format, are available to purchase online directly from its website (https://frap.tools/),
oday, in celebration of the 20th anniversary of the iconic SP-404 sampler, Serato and Roland have announced the official integration of the SP-404MKII with Serato DJ and Serato Studio. Roland’s free V5 update with Serato transforms the SP-404MKII into a powerful, accessible tool that bridges the gap between DJing and music production, maximising creativity for live performance while delivering powerful features for sampling and beatmaking.
The dynamic collaboration between two legendary music brands opens up the seminal 404 beat culture to more DJs and producers than ever before. Furthermore, Serato’s support of Roland’s SP-404MKII promotes new sonic possibilities for performance, sampling and beatmaking through the fusion of Serato’s advanced audio processing and the SP-404MKII’s beloved effects.
Roland SP-404MKII for Serato DJ:
The new built-in integration with Serato DJ unlocks fresh live performance opportunities with Roland’s compact, customizable and iconic sampler.
As the first DJ software to officially support the SP-404MKII, Serato DJ offers access to a portable performance machine without the complexity of a full DJ set up.
Now with pre-mapped Serato controls, DJs can easily integrate their workflow and perform sets on the go with a versatile, portable DJ rig that has access to Serato Stems, looping, hot cues and much more.
Enjoy smooth transitions, real-time mixing and looping, and access to both SP and Serato FX.
Roland SP-404MKII for Serato Studio:
Roland and Serato’s integration advances the SP-404MKII hardware into a hands-on, pre-mapped controller and USB audio interface for Serato Studio with even deeper hardware integration.
Producers now have the ability to route Serato Studio audio through the SP-404MKII’s onboard effects for real-time processing.
Separate stems and trigger loops and one-shots directly in Serato Studio with the famed hardware’s 16 performance pads.
With Roland’s iconic SP-404MKII, producers can utilize a portable recording studio on-the-go while tapping into Serato’s powerful software features.
Serato’s official support for Roland’s internationally-renowned portable sampler launches alongside a string of global events in the vibrant cities that were vital hubs of the early 404 beat community, from Los Angeles, Atlanta, Tokyo, Berlin, London and beyond.
Live performances, beat battles, artist panels and exclusive merchandise giveaways will unite the artists, DJs and producers who were integral to the cultural phenomenon that is the SP-404. Roland stores around the world will host in-person celebrations – from London to Tokyo – where guests can join 404 Day gear raffles for creative tools aligned with the SP-404MKII, including Serato licenses, the AIRA Compact S-1 and J-6, a limited-edition Roland graphic tee, Roland Cloud access, Melodics subscriptions and more. To join this landmark 20th year celebration of the SP-404, visit Roland’s dedicated 404 Day page here and Roland’s ultimate guide for 404 Day 2025 here.
