All posts by Noa Dohler

Explore how digital innovation transforms guitar and music production, as Steven Wilson champions modern processing over traditional methods.

Guitar Evolution Sparks Digital Music Revolution

Traditional guitar amplifiers face extinction as digital plugins revolutionize music production forever.

The guitar world stands at a crossroads between vintage authenticity and digital innovation. While some cling to traditional amp setups, others, like recent industry developments suggest, are embracing a future where software transforms how we create and experience guitar music.

Just last week in my home studio, I switched from my beloved tube amp to a digital modeling setup for a recording session. The flexibility was mind-blowing – I could instantly switch between vintage tones I’d spent years trying to perfect through hardware. My inner purist cringed, but my producer side rejoiced.

Digital Revolution Reshapes Guitar’s Future

Steven Wilson, the mastermind behind Porcupine Tree, is boldly declaring that the guitar belongs to the 20th century. His latest album ‘The Overview’ showcases how modern processing and plugins are breathing new life into the instrument.

Wilson’s collaboration with Randy McStine demonstrates how digital tools are expanding guitar’s vocabulary. They’re creating epic solos that honor tradition while pushing boundaries, proving that innovation doesn’t mean abandoning soul.

The abundance of amp simulators and processing tools has transformed modern guitar production. Wilson embraces this digital realm, mixing vintage tones with fresh sounds to create something entirely new, challenging the notion that authentic guitar tone requires traditional hardware.

Shape Tomorrow’s Guitar Sound

The future of guitar lies at the intersection of tradition and innovation. Whether you’re a digital native or an analog purist, there’s never been a more exciting time to explore new sonic territories. What new sounds will you discover? Share your thoughts on the digital evolution of guitar tone – are you embracing the change or holding onto traditional setups?


Quick Guitar Tech FAQ

What are amp simulators?

Amp simulators are digital software that recreates the sound of traditional guitar amplifiers, offering hundreds of tone options without physical hardware.

Can digital plugins replace traditional amps?

Modern plugins can effectively replicate vintage amp tones while offering additional flexibility, though some guitarists prefer the feel and response of physical amps.

How much do professional guitar plugins cost?

Professional-grade guitar plugin suites typically range from $100-300, significantly less than equivalent physical amp setups that can cost thousands.

Behringer's DeepMind X Series redefines polyphonic synthesizer possibilities with 12-voice power and professional effects processing.

Behringer Unleashes DeepMind Polyphonic Synth Revolution

A legendary synthesizer bloodline evolves as Behringer unveils its ultimate polyphonic synthesizer masterpiece.

In a bold move that’s sending ripples through the music tech community, Behringer has launched its DeepMind X Series, marking a decade of polyphonic innovation. Like the recent groundbreaking developments in FM synthesis, this release promises to redefine what’s possible in hardware synthesis.

Back at CCRMA, I spent countless hours exploring polyphonic synthesis, creating ethereal soundscapes that would fill the lab. One late night, I accidentally triggered all twelve voices simultaneously, creating an overwhelming cascade of sound that had everyone rushing in to see what magical instrument I’d discovered.

DeepMind X Series: The Ultimate Polyphonic Evolution

The DeepMind X Series emerges with three powerful models: the 12XD, 6X, and 12X. The flagship 12X boasts a 49-key interface with impressive 12-voice polyphony, while its keyboard-less sibling, the 12XD, packs identical sonic power.

Each synthesizer features dual oscillators per voice, paired with 2-pole/4-pole filters running at 6dB-per-octave. The architecture includes three ADSR generators and an eight-channel Modulation Matrix, complete with legendary IR3109-style VCFs and stereo VCAs.

The cherry on top? Four simultaneous FX engines featuring over 33 world-class algorithms from TC Electronic, Midas, and Klark Teknik. From lush reverbs to mind-bending phasers, this polyphonic synthesizer delivers studio-quality effects processing.

Shape Tomorrow’s Sound Today

The DeepMind X Series represents more than just another synthesizer launch – it’s a gateway to sonic possibilities that blur the line between vintage charm and modern innovation. Whether you’re crafting celestial pads or punchy leads, this instrument adapts to your creative vision. Ready to explore its vast potential? Share your dream sound in the comments below!


Quick FAQ Guide

What makes the DeepMind X Series special?

The series offers up to 12-voice polyphony, dual oscillators per voice, and four simultaneous FX engines with 33+ professional algorithms, making it one of the most versatile polyphonic synthesizers in its class.

How does the DeepMind 12XD differ from the 12X?

The 12XD is a keyboard-less version of the 12X, offering identical synthesis capabilities in a more compact form factor, ideal for studio integration or rack mounting.

What kind of effects does the DeepMind X Series include?

It features 33+ professional effects from TC Electronic, Midas, and Klark Teknik, including reverb, chorus, flanger, phaser, delay, and multiband distortion.

Discover Lore: a revolutionary pocket-sized analog synth that delivers powerful FM synthesis in a compact, eco-friendly package from Crows Electromusic

Tiny Analog Synth Unleashes Mighty FM Power

Hold tight, synth enthusiasts – a pocket-sized analog powerhouse is about to revolutionize your sound.

In a world where bigger often means better, Crows Electromusic is proving that small can be mighty. Their new analog synth, Lore, is challenging everything we thought we knew about compact sound design. Much like recent innovations in music technology, this tiny marvel is pushing creative boundaries.

This reminds me of my first encounter with FM synthesis at CCRMA, Stanford’s Music Tech lab. I spent hours creating otherworldly sounds with a massive modular system, only to realize that the most interesting textures came from the simplest patches. Sometimes, less really is more!

Pocket-Sized Analog Synth Revolutionizes Sound Design

Get ready for a sonic revolution in a tiny package! Crows Electromusic’s new Lore synthesizer is redefining what’s possible in portable sound design. This pocket-sized powerhouse measures just 3×3 inches but packs two independent triangle-core oscillators and full FM synthesis capabilities.

Following their successful OVUM release, Crows Electromusic designed Lore with ambitious goals: pushing compact synth boundaries while enabling more aggressive soundscapes. The 100% analog circuitry delivers everything from pure tones to metallic, grinding textures, all without digital components or complicated menus.

Here’s what makes this analog synth special: a simple yet powerful FM synthesis implementation, crossfading oscillators, and immediate hands-on control. At just $59 USD, it’s housed in an eco-friendly bioplastic case and powered via USB. No battery needed – just plug in your headphones and start exploring!

Join the Compact Sound Revolution

The future of synthesis is evolving, and it’s getting delightfully smaller. Whether you’re a seasoned sound designer or just starting your sonic journey, Lore proves that massive sound can come in tiny packages. Ready to explore new sonic territories? What kinds of sounds would you create with this pocket-sized powerhouse? Share your ideas below – let’s get creative together!


Quick FAQ Guide

What makes Lore different from other compact synthesizers?

Lore stands out with its 100% analog circuitry, FM synthesis capabilities, and incredibly compact 3×3 inch size, all while maintaining hands-on control without digital menus or screens.

How is Lore powered and what connections does it have?

Lore is USB-powered (compatible with power banks) and features a 3.5mm headphone jack plus line-out for connecting to amplifiers, audio interfaces, or effects.

What kind of sounds can Lore produce?

Lore generates a wide spectrum of sounds from pure tones to complex FM synthesis textures, making it ideal for ambient, drone, and noise music creation.

Bandcamp challenges streaming games with its artist-first approach, proving traditional business models still work in the age of AI music.

Bandcamp Defies Streaming Games Industry-Wide

While streaming games reshape music’s landscape, Bandcamp stands firm with its revolutionary approach.

In an industry obsessed with streaming numbers, Bandcamp’s bold stance against the tide is turning heads. Just as Jerry Garcia’s voice found new life through technology, Bandcamp is breathing fresh air into artist compensation, challenging the status quo of microscopic streaming payouts.

As a performer who’s witnessed both sides of the industry, I remember the day I received my first streaming statement – cents for thousands of plays. It felt like trading a symphony for spare change. That’s when I truly understood why alternative platforms matter.

Bandcamp’s Bold Stand Against Streaming Games

In a groundbreaking interview with MusicRadar, Bandcamp’s General Manager Dan Melnick isn’t mincing words about streaming games. The platform’s direct-to-artist approach sends the majority of revenue straight to creators, unlike streaming’s fractional penny payouts.

Melnick boldly positions Bandcamp’s model as timeless, while suggesting that streaming platforms represent an industry anomaly. Their business approach aligns success with artist earnings – when artists thrive, Bandcamp prospers.

Looking ahead to AI’s impact, Melnick sees Bandcamp’s human-centric model as a shield against AI-generated content flooding. He emphasizes that staying in streaming games could pose more career threats than building genuine fan relationships.

Your Voice in the Music Revolution

The future of music stands at a crossroads, with artists and fans wielding unprecedented power to shape its direction. Whether you’re a creator seeking fair compensation or a fan wanting to directly support your favorite artists, your choices matter. How will you participate in this revolution? Share your thoughts on direct artist support versus streaming platforms below.


Quick FAQ Guide

How does Bandcamp’s payment model differ from streaming platforms?

Bandcamp gives artists 80-85% of each sale directly, compared to streaming platforms which typically pay $0.003-$0.005 per stream. This direct-to-artist model ensures significantly higher earnings per transaction.

Will AI-generated music affect streaming platforms?

Yes, streaming platforms face potential oversaturation from AI-generated content, which could further reduce artist earnings. Bandcamp’s human-verification system helps protect against this threat.

How can fans best support their favorite artists?

Direct purchases through platforms like Bandcamp provide the highest artist compensation, with up to 85% of the sale going to creators, compared to thousands of streams needed to equal one album purchase.

Grammy-winning producer Dom Morley launches Multiband.io, revolutionizing music collaboration with real-time project tracking and sharing.

Studio Wizards Unite Through Multiband Magic

Grammy-winning producer Dom Morley revolutionizes music collaboration with a game-changing studio tool.

The music industry’s collaboration challenges have finally met their match. Grammy-winning producer Dom Morley, known for crafting hits with Amy Winehouse and Adele, has unveiled a solution that’s turning heads. Just as innovative AI tools are reshaping music production, Multiband.io is set to transform how we work together in the studio.

This hits close to home. Last month, I was juggling files between London and San Francisco for a vocal session, drowning in endless email chains and file versions. If only I had this tool then – those midnight ‘which mix version are we using?’ panic messages would’ve been history!

Revolutionary Music Collaboration Platform Transforms Studio Workflow

Multiband.io emerges as a game-changing studio collaboration tool, born from Morley’s 25 years of industry expertise. Unlike typical venture-backed platforms, this passion project truly understands producers’ needs.

The platform offers a centralized workspace where teams can efficiently manage multiple projects, track mixes, and share updates in real-time. Users can upload latest audio versions, ensuring everyone references the correct mix, while project sharing and commenting features streamline collaborative workflow.

Available in three tiers, Multiband.io starts with a free Basic version, followed by Standard at £4.50/month or £45/year, and Professional (coming soon) at £9/month or £90/year. Each tier unlocks additional features for seamless music collaboration.

Your Studio’s Missing Puzzle Piece

The future of music collaboration is here, and it’s more accessible than ever. Whether you’re a bedroom producer or running a professional studio, Multiband.io offers the organization tools you’ve been dreaming of. Ready to revolutionize your workflow? Share your biggest studio collaboration challenges below – let’s discuss how this tool could transform your process!


Quick FAQ Guide

Q: What makes Multiband.io different from other collaboration tools?
A: Unlike venture-backed platforms, Multiband.io is created by a Grammy-winning producer with 25 years of experience, specifically designed to address real-world studio challenges.

Q: How much does Multiband.io cost?
A: There’s a free Basic version, Standard tier at £4.50/month, and Professional tier at £9/month, offering different feature sets for various needs.

Q: Can multiple team members access projects simultaneously?
A: Yes, the platform allows real-time collaboration with features for sharing projects, tracking mixes, and leaving comments for team members.

Plugin Boutique's Scaler 3 helps you get by creative blocks with revolutionary features, standalone operation, and deep music theory tools

Scaler Wants To Get By You

Scaler 3 just dropped, and it’s ready to get by you with mind-bending features.

The music production world is buzzing with excitement as Plugin Boutique unveils their latest creation. While some producers question AI’s role in music creation, Scaler 3 proves that technology can enhance human creativity rather than replace it.

As a composer, I’ve spent countless nights wrestling with chord progressions. I remember one particularly frustrating session at CCRMA where I was stuck on a progression until 3 AM. A tool like Scaler would have helped me get by those creative blocks much faster!

Scaler 3: Your Musical Companion Gets Smarter

The celebrated Scaler plugin’s third iteration has arrived, offering a game-changing 20% discount until April 30. Endorsed by legends like Carl Cox and Jean-Michel Jarre, this tool helps you get by creative roadblocks with innovative scale and chord exploration.

What’s revolutionary? Scaler 3 now runs as a standalone app, no DAW required. The revamped UI makes workflow smoother than ever, and you can now host third-party VST and AU instruments directly within the software. Loading your favorite synths is seamless – no more complex MIDI routing!

The new version introduces three powerful workspaces: Browse, Arrange, and Create. The Create page features Chord Constellations, organizing harmonies by genre and mood. Current Scaler 1 and 2 users can upgrade for just £29, making this musical evolution accessible to all.

Transform Your Musical Journey

Ready to elevate your productions to new heights? Scaler 3 isn’t just another plugin – it’s your creative companion in the endless quest for musical innovation. Whether you’re a bedroom producer or studio veteran, this tool will help you break through creative barriers. What chord progression will you discover today? Share your Scaler experiences in the comments below!


Quick FAQ Guide

What makes Scaler 3 different from previous versions?

Scaler 3 runs as a standalone app and features direct VST/AU instrument hosting, improved UI, and new Chord Constellations feature – all major upgrades from Scaler 2.

How much does Scaler 3 cost?

Scaler 3 is currently available for £79 (20% off regular price of £99). Existing Scaler 1 and 2 users can upgrade for just £29.

Do I need a DAW to use Scaler 3?

No, Scaler 3 can run as a standalone application, making it more versatile than ever for music creation and chord exploration.

ElevenLabs partners with Jerry Garcia Estate to bring the Grateful Dead legend's voice back through groundbreaking AI news technology.

Jerry Garcia’s Voice Lives Through AI Magic

Dead-heads rejoice: AI news brings Jerry Garcia’s iconic voice back to life.

In a groundbreaking fusion of nostalgia and technology, the latest ai news reveals how the past and future collide. ElevenLabs has partnered with the Jerry Garcia Estate to resurrect the legendary Grateful Dead frontman’s voice through AI. Just as we’ve seen Brian Eno question AI’s impact on creativity, this development pushes boundaries further.

Standing in my home studio, surrounded by vintage gear and modern tech, I couldn’t help but remember my first experience with AI voice synthesis. The uncanny valley between authentic and artificial reminded me of when I attempted to recreate famous voices for an opera parody – let’s just say my Jerry Garcia impression needed work!

Jerry Garcia’s AI Voice Revolution

ElevenLabs and the Jerry Garcia Estate have joined forces to create an AI voice model that brings the legendary guitarist’s distinctive vocals back to life. The groundbreaking technology, available through the ElevenReader app, can narrate written content in 32 different languages.

Keelin Garcia, Jerry’s daughter and foundation vice president, emphasizes her father’s pioneering spirit in embracing new technologies. From MIDI guitars to digital art creation, Garcia was always at the forefront of innovation, making this AI continuation of his legacy particularly fitting.

ElevenLabs’ Iconic Voice Collection already features luminaries like Judy Garland and James Dean. The company worked closely with Garcia’s estate to ensure authenticity, creating new possibilities for fans to experience content through the voice of their beloved idol.

Embrace the Future of Musical Legacy

The convergence of AI and musical heritage opens doors we never imagined possible. Whether you’re a die-hard Deadhead or a curious newcomer, this technology offers a unique bridge between past and present. What would you have Jerry Garcia read to you? Share your thoughts and dream selections in the comments below – let’s create a collective wishlist of possibilities!


Quick FAQ About Jerry Garcia AI Voice

How accurate is Jerry Garcia’s AI voice model?

ElevenLabs worked directly with the Jerry Garcia Estate to ensure the highest possible accuracy, capturing his distinctive vocal characteristics and speaking style.

What content can Jerry Garcia’s AI voice narrate?

The AI model can narrate audiobooks, articles, poetry, and other written content in 32 different languages through the ElevenReader app.

Is this AI voice technology legal?

Yes, this is a fully authorized collaboration between ElevenLabs and the Jerry Garcia Estate, ensuring all rights and permissions are properly secured.

Output's Co-Producer revolutionizes free music sample discovery with AI-powered search, offering instant access to perfect samples for any track

Output Revolutionizes Free Music Sample Search

Imagine finding perfect free music samples instantly, without endless scrolling through mediocre options.

The endless hunt for the right sample has frustrated producers for decades. As someone who recently explored how plugins can transform sound, I’m thrilled to share a game-changing development that’s about to revolutionize how we discover free music samples.

Just last week, while producing at Stanford’s CCRMA, I spent three hours searching for the perfect violin sample. The struggle was real – scrolling through countless mediocre options while my creative momentum slowly died. If only I had access to this technology then!

AI-Powered Free Music Sample Revolution

Output’s groundbreaking Co-Producer plugin is revolutionizing how we discover free music samples. This innovative tool analyzes your track’s harmony and rhythm, instantly serving up perfectly matched, royalty-free samples that align with your creative vision.

The plugin offers seamless integration with any DAW, allowing producers to audition samples in context, perfectly synced to their session’s key and tempo. With simple text prompts, users can refine their search and explore similar sounds, all while staying in their creative flow.

For just $9.99 monthly, producers get unlimited access to a growing library of musician-made samples. The system’s success rate is impressive – users find samples they love in 73% of searches, proving that AI can truly enhance the creative process without generating audio.

Transform Your Production Workflow

Ready to revolutionize your music production journey? Imagine cutting your sample search time in half while discovering perfect matches for your tracks. Whether you’re a bedroom producer or studio veteran, this tool could be your secret weapon. What’s your biggest sample-hunting frustration? Share your story below – let’s discuss how this technology might transform your workflow.


Quick FAQ Guide

How much does Output Co-Producer cost?

Output Co-Producer costs $9.99 per month with unlimited access to all samples. New subscribers can get a 60-day free trial if they’re existing Arcade users.

Does Co-Producer work with all DAWs?

Yes, Co-Producer is compatible with all major Digital Audio Workstations, offering seamless integration for sample auditioning and drag-and-drop functionality.

Are the samples truly royalty-free?

Yes, all samples in Co-Producer are 100% royalty-free and musician-made, allowing unrestricted use in your productions without additional licensing fees.

Apple's game-changing update transforms AirPods Max with lossless audio and ultra-low latency for professional music creation.

Apple Update Transforms AirPods Max Forever

Apple’s latest update unleashes groundbreaking lossless audio power for music creators everywhere.

In a stunning move that echoes recent smartphone recording breakthroughs, Apple is revolutionizing how musicians create and mix music. The tech giant’s latest update for AirPods Max introduces game-changing features that promise to reshape the landscape of personal audio production.

When I first tried mixing with headphones in my early recording days, the results were disastrous. The stereo image was all wrong, and my mixes fell apart on speakers. This update would have saved me countless hours of remixing and the embarrassment of playing a badly mixed demo to my producer!

Revolutionary Apple Update Redefines Professional Audio

Apple’s latest software update is about to transform your AirPods Max into a professional mixing powerhouse. The firmware upgrade unlocks pristine 24-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio capabilities, allowing musicians to hear their creations exactly as they were recorded in the studio.

The groundbreaking update introduces personalized spatial audio with head tracking, making AirPods Max the only headphones capable of this unique mixing experience. Integration with Logic Pro means producers can now record and mix with uncompromised fidelity, while the ultra-low latency feature ensures real-time monitoring without delay.

To harness the full potential of this apple update, users will need an iPhone with TrueDepth camera for creating personal profiles. The free firmware update will roll out alongside iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, and MacOS Sequoia 15.4, bringing professional-grade audio capabilities to everyone.

Transform Your Musical Journey

The future of audio production is evolving, and this update puts professional-grade tools in your hands. Whether you’re a bedroom producer or a seasoned studio veteran, the possibilities are endless. How will you use these new capabilities to enhance your creative process? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below – I’d love to hear how this game-changing update transforms your workflow!


Quick FAQ Guide

Q: What audio quality does the new AirPods Max update support?
A: The update enables 24-bit, 48 kHz lossless audio, providing studio-quality sound reproduction for professional mixing and monitoring.

Q: Do I need special equipment to use the new features?
A: Yes, you’ll need an iPhone with TrueDepth camera to create your personal profile for spatial audio features.

Q: When will the update be available?
A: The free firmware update will release in April alongside iOS 18.4, iPadOS 18.4, and MacOS Sequoia 15.4.

Brian Eno challenges the control of artificial AI in music, highlighting concerns about tech giant ownership while exploring creative possibilities

Brian Eno Challenges AI Power Dynamics

Legendary producer Brian Eno drops truth bombs about artificial AI ownership that will reshape music forever.

The battle for artificial AI control in music production is heating up, and industry veterans aren’t staying silent. As I recently covered in my piece about AI’s role in sound design, the technology’s potential is matched only by its controversies.

Last month, while testing an AI-powered vocal processor at Stanford’s CCRMA lab, I witnessed firsthand how these tools can both enhance and threaten creativity. The students’ mixed reactions – from excitement to genuine concern – perfectly mirrored Eno’s observations about technology’s double-edged nature.

The AI Power Struggle in Music Creation

In a revealing conversation with Apple Music’s Zane Lowe, Brian Eno cuts through the noise surrounding artificial AI. His primary concern? The concentration of power in the hands of a few tech giants.

‘The biggest problem about AI is not intrinsic to AI. It’s to do with the fact that it’s owned by the same few people,’ Eno emphasizes. He draws compelling parallels between AI’s current trajectory and social media’s societal impact, describing the latter as both ‘mildly useful’ and ‘catastrophic.’

Despite his criticisms, Eno maintains an open mind about AI’s creative potential. He celebrates how musicians historically repurpose technology beyond its intended use, citing distortion as a prime example. His latest project, the generative AI-powered film ‘Eno,’ showcases this forward-thinking approach while maintaining ethical considerations.

Shape Tomorrow’s Sound Today

The artificial AI revolution in music isn’t about choosing sides – it’s about ensuring the technology serves creativity, not controls it. Whether you’re a bedroom producer or a studio veteran, your voice matters in this conversation. How do you envision AI’s role in your musical journey? Share your thoughts, experiences, and concerns below. Let’s craft a future where technology amplifies human creativity rather than replacing it.


Quick FAQ on AI in Music

How is AI currently being used in music production?

AI is being utilized for tasks like audio mastering, sound design, and generative composition. Major platforms are implementing AI tools for mixing, while some artists use it for creative inspiration.

Who controls most music-related AI technology?

According to industry experts, music AI technology is primarily controlled by major tech companies and a handful of specialized AI firms, raising concerns about centralized power in creative tools.

Can musicians use AI while maintaining creative control?

Yes, musicians can use AI as a complementary tool while maintaining creative direction. Many artists, including Brian Eno, demonstrate how to leverage AI technology while preserving artistic integrity.