This week on The Digital Lifestyle Show, Ian and Garry are back with a deep-dive discussion after a string of great guest episodes. From the creative impact of AI to hands-on synth sound design and smart home automation hacks — it’s a wide-ranging conversation packed with insights, demos, and gear tips.

Listen Now:
Listen Here (download mp3)

In This Episode

AI in Music Creation
Can AI truly be creative? Or is it just cleverly copying? Ian and Garry explore the impact of AI-generated lyrics, music, and vocals — and how prompt engineering is becoming a new creative skillset.

Home Assistant & AI Integration
Garry shows off his latest Home Assistant upgrades, including ESP32-powered devices, AI camera feeds, presence tracking, and voice assistants using Chinese open-source projects like Xiaoi.

Using AI for Productivity
Ian explains how he uses Copilot and ChatGPT to automate repetitive tasks like podcast show notes, timestamps, and YouTube descriptions — freeing up time for creative work.

Synth Talk & Sound Design
Ian shares his 5-minute synth patch challenges (with free downloads), recreating everything from MiniMoog leads to CR-78 drum patterns using the RD-78. He also previews a new Pink Floyd sound pack for the Korg Wavestate and a free community sound pack.

Smart EV Charging Hacks
Automating your car charger with Home Assistant? Garry walks through how he uses presence detection and charger APIs to set charging targets automatically.

Timestamps
00:00 – Introduction and recent guest highlights
01:13 – AI in music: creativity vs. automation
04:41 – How prompt engineering shapes AI output
07:06 – AI for smart home: Home Assistant and LLM Vision
09:02 – Using AI to automate podcast show notes and timestamps
10:45 – Can AI design YouTube thumbnails and album art?
12:06 – Xiaoi open-source Chinese AI device overview
14:25 – Integrating Xiaoi with Home Assistant using MCP
16:59 – UK vs China AI accessibility & open tools
17:43 – Real-world AI use: security cameras and gate detection
19:11 – Using Copilot + Power Automate to process documents
21:04 – AI hallucinations and corrections
23:01 – Songwriting with AI and prompt quality
25:02 – Vocal synthesis and creative applications
29:11 – 5-minute synth patch creation challenges
30:42 – Pink Floyd sound pack for Korg Wavestate
31:19 – Free community sound pack: 23 performances
32:03 – Recreating CR-78 patterns on the Behringer RD-78
32:38 – ESP32 and BLE triangulation for home presence tracking
35:08 – Dashboard automations and context awareness
36:41 – mmWave sensors and Zigbee repeaters
38:00 – Smart EV charging automation via Home Assistant
40:05 – Follow-me LED lighting and ambient control
41:55 – Retro-futurism, LED strip tracking, and presence UX
43:25 – Temperature sensors and home heat mapping
45:21 – USB-controlled Zigbee hubs and gadgets
47:00 – Sun tracking for blind control and temperature automation
48:13 – Simplifying overly complex home automations
49:01 – Gary’s EV channel and future interviews
50:00 – Ian’s Surface Go travel plans and synth-free holiday
50:34 – Wrap-up and where to find downloads and videos
50:55 – Outro: AI-generated theme music

If you want more information about how to subscribe to podcasts read our Podcast How To page. Follow us on twitter @isdixon @garrywma @Thedigitallife

Watch the full episode on YouTube

In this week’s episode of The Digital Lifestyle Show, I’m joined by none other than Daniel Fisher from Sweetwater. If you’re into synthesisers, programming, or live performance — this is a must-listen episode.

Daniel has had a long and fascinating journey through music and synthesis, and in this episode, he shares stories from his early musical experiences, how he got started with synthesisers, and how he became one of the most respected sound designers in the industry.

Listen Now:
Listen Here (download mp3)

We chat about:

How Daniel learned music by ear and discovered synthesis as a child

His first synth experiences with instruments like the Minimoog and DX7

Transitioning from analog to digital synthesis

Creating synth patches for tribute bands, including Pink Floyd

The importance of learning one synth deeply vs collecting too many plugins

Hardware vs software synths — and why he prefers a hands-on approach

Daniel’s all-time favourite synth (spoiler: it’s a Kurzweil!)

Whether you’re a beginner or a synth veteran, Daniel shares brilliant insights and practical tips — especially if you play live or work with cover bands. He also talks about his amazing free Synth Clips series on YouTube, which walks through the fundamentals of synthesis step by step.

Timestamps / Chapters

00:00 – Introduction: Daniel Fisher joins the show
00:42 – Early inspiration and first encounter with the Magnus chord organ
02:50 – Taking B3 lessons, learning drawbars and 60s/70s pop
04:25 – Discovering music by ear, learning from bands like Styx and Kansas
06:06 – Switching to trombone and guitar as portable instruments
07:00 – Joining a bar band at 15 after a synth fix from his dad
08:00 – Starting on organ shaped approach to synthesis
09:00 – Rejecting weighted keyboards and loving synth-style playing
10:00 – The Motorola synth album and discovering sound design
11:00 – First synth experiences: Micromoog and performance memories
12:15 – Creating sound programming business: “Systems Exclusive”
13:30 – Learning to work with limited synths (DX7, M1) and evolving through constraint
15:30 – Advice: Focus on one synth/plugin to master synthesis
16:40 – Modwave, Wavestate, and learning deeply vs skimming presets
17:30 – Daniel’s Synth Clips series and sharing knowledge freely
18:30 – Favorite synths to program: DX7 and Korg M1 tricks
20:45 – MIDI glitches, hacking patches, and deep programming creativity
22:00 – From romplers to virtual analogues and the loss of knobs
23:45 – Return of real-time control and modern synth flexibility
25:00 – Plugins vs hardware: Daniel prefers hardware for live performance
26:00 – Vintage vs modern synths: reliability and modern enhancements win
27:45 – Current rig: no fixed setup, tailored for each project
28:50 – Pink Floyd tribute setup and theremin wind sounds
30:00 – How Daniel recreates Floyd’s complex sounds live
31:30 – Naming patches with key and FX cues for easy recall
33:00 – Saving patch versions incrementally for long-term refinement
34:10 – Long envelopes to replicate mix automation in songs
35:00 – Daniel’s favorite synth of all time: Kurzweil K2661
36:00 – No regrets on past synths; prefers modern synths with deep EQ
37:10 – Synth he wishes existed: flexible, layered, sample-capable synth
38:40 – Final thoughts, shoutouts, and appreciation for the community

If you want more information about how to subscribe to podcasts read our Podcast How To page. Follow us on twitter @isdixon @garrywma @Thedigitallife

Watch the full episode on YouTube

Explore Daniel’s Synth Clips series
Search for “Synth Clips Daniel Fisher” on YouTube, or just type Daniel Fisher Sweetwater to find his full library of tutorials and demos.

(188) Synth Clips by Daniel Fisher – YouTube

Let us know your thoughts!
What synth did you first fall in love with? Do you prefer plugins or hardware? Drop a comment below or join the discussion in our Discord server.

In this episode, we dive deep into the world of vintage synth firmware hacking with Thomas Janssen. Thomas has been developing new firmware for the classic 1986 Korg DW8000 synthesizer, adding features like enhanced unison detune, expanded filter resolution, random LFOs, and new modulation destinations — all while preserving the synth’s vintage character.

Listen Now:
Listen Here (download mp3)

We also explore Thomas’ background in music, his love of Commodore 64 and Amiga computers, SID chip programming, trackers, and chip tunes. Hear how reverse engineering 40-year-old synthesizers becomes a giant puzzle that combines music, software engineering, and creative problem-solving.

Topics covered:

Why create firmware for a 1986 synth

How reverse engineering old synths works

New DW8000 features Thomas added

The SID chip, ASID protocol, and modern chip tune synths

Using trackers and mod files on the Amiga

Vintage gear and creative limitations

AI-generated music & the future of music tech

Home automation and EV charging with Home Assistant

Whether you’re into vintage synths, retro computing, or software hacking — this is a fascinating deep dive into the intersection of old and new technology.

If you want more information about how to subscribe to podcasts read our Podcast How To page. Follow us on twitter @isdixon @garrywma @Thedigitallife

Links Mentioned:

Thomas Janssen’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/tubesockor

️ New Episode of the TDL Podcast!

This week, I’m joined by Peter Dowsett, a long-time synthesizer enthusiast, producer, and vintage sampler collector, for a deep dive into synth history, creative sound design, and studio setup secrets.

Peter shares his journey from discovering synths in the early ’80s to building an advanced modern studio with 90 live audio inputs via MADI routing. We talk TR-505 drum machines, the underrated Sequential Six-Trak, Waldorf wavetables, and the legendary EMU samplers—plus, the one synth he’d save on a desert island!

Listen Now:
Listen Here (download mp3)

The synth that started it all: Roland TR-505

Peter’s first band Neuer Ritmus and early synth choices

The gear he regrets selling (Moog Source!)

Using samplers creatively: Akai S900, Ensoniq EPS, Roland S-50

Setting up a pro-level MIDI + audio studio

The joy of programming with knobs vs menus

Why the Waldorf Iridium might be his “one synth to rule them all”

Roland TR-505, MC-500, S-50

Sequential Six-Trak

Yamaha DX7, TX7

Korg DW-6000, DW-8000, D-110

Waldorf Microwave XT, Iridium

Ensoniq EPS

Akai S900

EMU ESI-4000, E5000

Moog Source

Arturia Polybrute, Prophet 12

Waldorf Iridium Keyboard

Moog Source (stolen, sadly!)

“Sometimes, it’s not about having more gear—it’s about having the right connection with it.” – Peter Dowsett

http://Linktr.ee/dyingcode

https://linktr.ee/antisocialclub

https://linktr.ee/bruteopposition

https://linktr.ee/poolwaitress

https://linktr.ee/tubeunddiode

️ Subscribe to the podcast for more great synth chats, music tech stories, and gear deep dives!

If you want more information about how to subscribe to podcasts read our Podcast How To page. Follow us on twitter @isdixon @garrywma @Thedigitallife

️ This Week on the Show: Exploring the Octave Cat with James Brennan
James Brennan is back! Following his popular appearance discussing the Polyvox, James returns to dive deep into another quirky classic – the Octave Cat analog synthesizer.

In this episode, we explore the history of Octave Electronics, how the Cat compares to synths like the ARP Odyssey and Minimoog, and what makes this rare monosynth so unique. James also shares a fascinating story about acquiring and restoring his Cat, explains the synth’s duophonic mode, and walks us through its filters, modulation, and signature growl.

We also touch on the synth’s connection to Turtle Beach, discuss vintage synth quirks, and talk about modern recreations from Behringer and Cherry Audio.

Whether you’re a synth nerd, collector, or just love analog gear, this episode is packed with insight and great sounds.

Timestamps:
00:00 – Introduction & James Brennan returns
00:51 – Polyvox follow-up and interesting backstory
03:12 – Introducing the Octave Cat
04:46 – History of Octave Electronics and Turtle Beach connection
06:05 – Other synths by Octave Plateau
07:16 – Voyetra 8 and early computer integration
08:00 – Acquiring the Octave Cat (and restoration troubles!)
11:56 – Octave Cat architecture overview
14:00 – Sound demo: resonant bass and envelope looping
16:00 – LFO tricks and sample & hold
17:00 – Performance section quirks
18:05 – Versions: CAT, SRM1, SRM2 – key differences
19:04 – Filter discussion and SSM 2030
20:00 – VCO1 deep dive and modulation
22:50 – Waveform mixing & sub oscillators
24:25 – VCO2 features and metallic cross-mod sounds
25:32 – Filter section demo and self-oscillation
27:00 – Filter modulation and ring mod-style effects
28:36 – VCA & noise generator
29:36 – Hard sync sound demo
31:05 – Duophonic mode and how it behaves
33:38 – ARP lawsuit story and duophonic patent
34:52 – Filter-as-oscillator trick & sine wave glide
36:40 – Final sound demos: fat bass, duophonic chords
40:00 – General impressions & how it fits synth-pop
41:25 – Behringer and Cherry Audio versions of the Cat
43:03 – Synth collection chat: Polyvox, Monopoly, JD-800 trade
45:27 – Outro and thanks

Want to be on the show? Email me:  podcast @theDigitalLifestyle.com

Listen Here (download mp3)

If you want more information about how to subscribe to podcasts read our Podcast How To page. Follow us on twitter @isdixon @garrywma @Thedigitallife

This week I’m joined by musician and synth aficionado Peter Teipe for a deep dive into decades of gear, sound design, and creative inspiration. From his early days on the Roland JX-10 and Yamaha RY30 to sampling with EMU samplers, gigging with the Virus TI, and exploring granular synthesis, Peter shares insights from his journey blending guitars and synths in both hardware and DAW-based setups.

We also chat about:

The charm and power of the Korg Modwave

Recreating classic sounds with Behringer clones

Using limitations to spark creativity

Capturing inspiration on the fly

Favorite plugins, drum machines, and DIY gear

Whether you’re into vintage hardware, modern production, or hybrid setups, this episode is packed with nostalgic gear talk and practical production tips.

Peter’s Music:
https://Peterteipe.bandcamp.com

Want to be on the show? Email me:  podcast @theDigitalLifestyle.com

Listen Here (download mp3)

If you want more information about how to subscribe to podcasts read our Podcast How To page. Follow us on twitter @isdixon @garrywma @Thedigitallife

Podcast 2025: New Surface Devices, Snapdragon Music Tests, & EV Show Highlights
This week, Garry returns and we catch up on all the latest in tech and electric vehicles!

️ I dive into testing the new Snapdragon-powered Surface Pro 11, sharing my experience using it for music production with Cubase 14 ARM and low-latency studio headphones. We also cover the newly announced 12″ Surface Pro and 13″ Surface Laptop, exploring their specs, price points, and limitations.

We also talk about OneOdio Studio Max headphones, the challenges of audio drivers on ARM, and Microsoft’s new AI-powered features like Recall.

Garry shares his trip to Everything Electric London, test driving the new MG EVs, the exciting MG Cyberster, and exploring cutting-edge tech like Android Automotive in the Kia PV series. He also covers electric vans, camper conversions, smart home charging gear, and the growing EV infrastructure in the UK.

Whether you’re into Windows, synths, or EVs—this episode’s packed with insights!

Chapters:
00:00 Intro
01:20 Surface Pro 11 for Music Production
10:00 OneOdio Studio Max Headphones
13:00 AI features & Recall on Surface
16:30 New 12″ Surface Pro & Surface Laptop
25:00 Everything Electric London Recap
34:00 Kia PV Series & Android Automotive
41:00 Hydrogen vs EV: What’s Next?
48:00 Retro-Inspired EVs & New Tech
51:00 Smart Home Gadgets & Wrap-Up

Listen Here (download mp3)

If you want more information about how to subscribe to podcasts read our Podcast How To page. Follow us on twitter @isdixon @garrywma @Thedigitallife

This week on TDL Synth Chat, Ian Dixon is joined by keyboardist, composer, and producer Beat Zimmermann for a deep dive into music, synths, and an exciting upcoming project. Beat shares his journey from classical piano training to jazz and fusion, his early passion for synthesizers, and his impressive collection of gear through the decades—from DX7s to JX-3Ps and beyond.

They explore the evolution of live performance setups, the shift from hardware to software, and Beat’s refreshing take on recording in the modern age. Plus, he discusses his ambitious new album project Unicorn Umbrellas, featuring Michael Sadler of Saga on vocals and Todd Sucherman of Styx on drums. Hear how the collaboration came together, the tech and instruments behind it, and how he’s handling production and remote recording.

It’s a conversation full of synth nostalgia, production tips, and inspiration for musicians at any level.

Topics include:

Beat’s transition from classical to prog and fusion

His vintage and modern synth setups

The use of AI in demo production

Building a personal studio

Collaborating remotely with legendary musicians

The making of Unicorn Umbrellas

More on Beat: https://beatzimmermann.com
Follow Unicorn Umbrellas on Facebook for updates.

Listen Here (download mp3)

If you want more information about how to subscribe to podcasts read our Podcast How To page. Follow us on twitter @isdixon @garrywma @Thedigitallife

Synth Chat with Seth | From Teenage Engineering to Take 5 and Beyond
Welcome to this week’s episode of The Synth Show! Ian chats with Seth Weisfeld—a product designer, synth enthusiast, and founder of Function Health—about his synth journey, gear picks, and design philosophy.

Seth shares how his background at Facebook shaped his views on user experience in synths, why he’s drawn to the OP-1 and Hydrasynth, and how he’s chasing the perfect balance of playability and depth. We dive deep into gear he’s loved (and sold), why he’s back in love with the Take 5, and his hopes for a future synth that balances immediacy with innovation.

Topics include:

His synth journey from Nord to OP-1 Field

Thoughts on the MicroKorg 2, Multi/Poly, and synth UI design

Why build quality and playability matter more than ever

The magic of beginner-friendly synths that still go deep

The role of AI in shaping the future of music gear

What makes Behringer, Teenage Engineering, and Yamaha stand out (or fall short)

Why we’re all just chasing sounds we fell in love with decades ago

️ Whether you’re a vintage synth nerd or modern groovebox fan, there’s a ton to dig into. If you’ve ever debated keeping or flipping a synth, you’ll relate to this one!

Links:
Check out Seth’s music on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7FqwuGlrHQknBUbYX3xLMr?pi=fmyCc1vHT8m_6

Listen Here (download mp3)

If you want more information about how to subscribe to podcasts read our Podcast How To page. Follow us on twitter @isdixon @garrywma @Thedigitallife

In this episode of TDL Synthchat, we dive into the world of Soviet-era synthesizers with special guest James Brennan. We explore the legendary Polivoks , a raw and aggressive analog synth known for its powerful filter and Cold War aesthetic. James shares his journey into electronic music, how he acquired his Polivoks from Ukraine, and the quirks that make this synth a unique piece of history.

We also discuss the broader landscape of vintage synth collecting, the resurgence of analog gear, and modern alternatives to the Polivoks . Plus, James gives a live demo of the synth’s brutal sound—despite a few technical hiccups! Whether you’re a synth enthusiast or just love hearing about rare and unusual gear, this episode is packed with deep-dive insights and sonic nostalgia.

00:00 Introduction

03:33 Background on James

07:40 First synth

10:47 Why Polivoks

14:08 Polivoks background

16:48 The look

28:16 Maintenance

35:13 Audio demo

45:05 What’s next for James?

49:20 Dreadbox

Listen Here (download mp3)

If you want more information about how to subscribe to podcasts read our Podcast How To page. Follow us on twitter @isdixon @garrywma @Thedigitallife