This week on The Digital Lifestyle Show, I'm joined once again by Dan Phillips from Korg R&D in California. Dan returns to the show to talk about the brand-new Korg PS-3300 plug-in, part of the recently released Korg Collection 6.

The PS-3300 is a recreation of one of Korg's most ambitious and rare synthesizers — the original 1977 PS-3300, a huge polyphonic monster with 144 envelopes, 144 filters, and three complete synth panels. Only around 50 were ever made, but now Korg has brought it back to life as a software instrument.

In this chat, Dan takes us behind the scenes of how his team recreated this legendary synth in software — from understanding the original circuitry to faithfully modelling its unique imperfections that made it sound alive.

Dan explains how the PS-3300 plug-in came about following the success of the 2600 and Multi/Poly projects. Although it looked like a simple synth on the surface, the team quickly discovered that the original PS-3300's divide-down structure and per-note envelopes made it one of the most complex synths they'd ever emulated.

"We thought it was going to be simple," Dan says. "We'd already done the MS-20 and the 2600, so we figured this would be quick — but we couldn't have been more wrong!"

Korg's engineers meticulously modelled every detail, from the analog tolerances of each circuit to the filter's unusual topology — a design unique to the PS series. Even the natural imperfections of the original hardware were recreated digitally, giving each note that "alive" feeling that analog synth fans love.

The original PS-3300 featured three complete synth panels, each capable of full polyphony — a mind-boggling design even by modern standards. With every key having its own filter and envelope, it produces subtle differences between notes that make it feel organic and unpredictable.

In the plug-in version, Korg preserved that depth and added modern touches like MIDI mapping, a familiar interface shared with other Korg software instruments, and integration with the Korg Librarian and Editor.

You can layer the three panels creatively to build evolving textures, phasing strings, or vocal-like tones using the built-in resonator section — something that hasn't appeared in any modern synths until now.

The PS-3300 headlines Korg Collection 6, which also includes the Trinity workstation and the SGX-2 piano engine from the Kronos.

Dan shared some fascinating insights into the Trinity's high-fidelity sound engine and how its oscillator interpolation set a new standard for digital synthesis back in 1995. Together, these new plug-ins showcase Korg's heritage — from vintage analog monsters to iconic digital workstations.

To go along with the episode, I've created a free sound pack for the PS-3300 plug-in featuring 26 custom performances inspired by the classic analog textures of the 1970s.

In this week's TDL Synth Chat, I talk to Remco Khman — musician, sound designer, and Roland D-70 enthusiast. Remco shares his deep knowledge of this often-overlooked synth, from its rushed development and marketing quirks to its fascinating sound architecture and legacy.

We also discuss how the D-70 fits between the D-50, U-20, and JV-80, and how it inspired later Roland instruments. If you've ever wondered why the D-70 is considered a flawed genius or want to hear from someone still programming new sounds for it, this is the chat for you. 

Gary's back! In this week's episode, we catch up on smart home gadgets, MIDI gear, automation tools, and even dive into the world of AI and home assistants. Ian shows off the U6 MIDI Pro, Gary reviews Sonoff's latest smart home gear, and the pair talk about AI voices, Wi-Fi presence detection, and much more.

👉 Subscribe for more weekly episodes covering smart home tech, MIDI, EVs, synths, and all things digital lifestyle!

00:00 – Introduction & Gary's return
00:50 – Catching up on Ollie Freke's vintage drum machine chat
01:40 – Ian's new gadget: the U6 MIDI Pro router and filter
03:20 – Hands-on demo: routing, mapping, and filtering MIDI
06:00 – Real-time synth control setup with TX7 and Cubase
07:43 – Gary's latest smart home projects
08:20 – Sonoff ZB Mini Extreme switch overview
09:50 – Sonoff Wi-Fi wall switches and setup tips
11:00 – Zigbee presence sensor and performance review
13:35 – NS Panel Pro control display and Home Assistant integration
17:10 – Using NS Panel as a family control hub and intercom
19:15 – Smart thermostats and underfloor heating setup
22:18 – AI-controlled heating and predictive automation
22:58 – Wi-Fi-based motion detection with Project Tommy
24:36 – Philips Hue motion area detection and Bridge Pro
25:51 – Ian's latest synth sound packs and tutorials
26:49 – Monthly newsletter and how AI helps write it
28:13 – AI-generated thumbnails and artwork
29:44 – Channel 4's AI presenter and deepfake voices
30:14 – Voice cloning experiments and AI narration
31:06 – Scams, cloned voices, and digital safety
32:27 – Where to find Gary's and Ian's channels
33:22 – Wrap-up and next week's special guest

In this week's episode of TDL Synth Chat, I talk with Oli Freke, author of the acclaimed Synth Evolutions book, about his new project — a deep dive into the world of vintage drum machines.

From the Korg Mini Pops and Roland TR-606 to the Boss DR-55 and Yamaha RX17, Oli explores how these classic rhythm boxes shaped the sound of pop, synthwave, and electronic music.

We also hear demos, rare stories, and insights into how drum machines evolved from the 1960s through the 2000s — and how their influence can still be heard in today's music production.

If you're a fan of vintage gear, synth history, or just love the warm, gritty sound of classic analog beats, this episode is not to be missed.

00:00 – Introduction
00:37 – Oli Freke returns to TDL Synth Chat
01:02 – New drum machine book project
02:05 – Why drum machines define entire eras of sound
03:06 – Researching over 1,000 drum machines
04:23 – Demonstrating five classic drum machines
05:01 – Korg Mini Pops Junior (1971)
10:01 – Famous uses: R.E.M., Echo & The Bunnymen, Jean-Michel Jarre
12:27 – Boss DR-55 demo
20:07 – Roland TR-606: programming the legend
28:02 – Korg DDM-110 sound demo
34:03 – Yamaha RX17 demo and programming
41:04 – How drum machines shaped music history
42:04 – Where to find Oli's books and posters

Welcome to this week's episode of TDL Synth Chat!
In this episode, I'm joined by Gilles Coudert, who takes us through his incredible synth journey — from his first keyboard in the late '70s to modern classics like the Korg Kronos and Prophet-5 Rev4. We dive deep into the Yamaha DX7, Roland D-50, DW-8000, and many more, sharing stories, regrets, and nostalgic memories from decades of synth exploration.

🎹 Gilles talks about the synths he loved, the ones he regretted selling, and how the DX7 changed his musical direction. We also discuss the evolution of FM synthesis, the return of vintage hardware, and why modern musicians still turn to classic gear for inspiration.

⚡ Don't miss this jaw-dropping story: Gilles reveals how he once traded a mint Roland JX-8P with programmer and a pristine Korg DW-8000 — both with hard cases — for a broken Korg M1! It's one of the biggest synth trade regrets you'll ever hear, and his reaction says it all. If you've ever sold a synth you loved, this story will hit hard!

⏱️ Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction
00:41 Gilles joins the show
02:31 Early influences and first instruments
04:04 Discovering synths through Jean-Michel Jarre and ELO
05:21 First synth – Roland Juno-60
06:49 Discovering (and initially disliking) the DX7
07:54 TX81Z and moving to the UK
08:24 Rediscovering the DX7 through live bands
10:52 TX802 and FM synthesis in the '80s
12:11 Comparing DX7 versions and sound differences
13:18 Using the Kronos to emulate DX7 sounds
14:09 Falling back in love with the DX7
17:46 Programming FM sounds and the Howard Massey book
20:26 Adding effects to bring old synths to life
22:36 Roland D-50 memories and reverb overload
24:08 Limited storage and patch cartridges
27:04 Upgrading to the SCR7 ROM
32:02 Prophet-5 Rev4 – why it's a desert island synth
33:42 The Jupiter-X experience and Roland's "abandonware"
36:22 Hardware vs software – why tactile synths still matter
39:05 Comparing OP-6, DX7, and Kronos FM engines
41:16 The TX7 workflow
41:47 DW-8000 and classic Korg sound design
43:25 Synth regrets – swapping a JX-8P and DW-8000 for an M1!
46:05 The M1 and D-70 debate
48:19 Dream synths and the Fairlight CMI
50:45 Desert island synth choice
52:26 The limitations that shaped 1980s synth music
54:03 Creative workflows and restricting synth choices
56:01 From Atari ST to modern DAWs
57:29 Wrap up and where to find Gilles online

🎧 Guest: Gilles Coudert – [The 80s Fan on YouTube]
🎙️ Host: Ian Dixon – The Digital Lifestyle / TDL Synth Chat

Subscribe for more weekly synth conversations, tutorials, and sound design stories from the world of vintage and modern synthesizers.

🎙️ This Week on The Digital Lifestyle Show

Gary's back from IFA 2025 in Berlin, and we've got a packed episode full of the latest in consumer tech, smart homes, and gadgets! 🚀

We dive into the biggest trends at the show – from robot lawnmowers and smart glasses to portable projectors and next-gen smart home tech. Gary shares his highlights from the event, including some fascinating innovations from smaller tech companies that are shaking up the market.

Ian also gives updates on his latest synth sound packs, new tutorials, and the classic CS-80 recreations he's been working on. Plus, we chat about EV charging in Europe, travel tips, and plenty more along the way.

📌 Timestamps
00:00 – Intro & Gary's return
01:00 – What is IFA?
02:30 – Robots everywhere: lawnmowers, vacuums & more
08:00 – Smart glasses with live translation
12:00 – Portable projectors and clever new gadgets
20:00 – The rise of smart home tech at IFA
27:00 – Locks, sensors & AI-powered devices
33:00 – Philips Hue's surprising innovation
39:00 – Ian's synth sound packs & tutorials
44:00 – EV charging in Europe & travel stories
46:40 – Wrap up & where to find us

🔗 Links & Resources
🌐 Blog & sound packs: https://thedigitallifestyle.com
📺 YouTube channel: [Your Channel Link]
📱 Follow Gary: Fascinating Tech YouTube + EV Owner channel

👉 Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe for weekly episodes on consumer tech, music gear, and smart home innovation!

🎹 Welcome to this week's TDL Synth Chat!
In this episode, I talk to Daniel from Chalkwalk Music about his journey into synthesis, sound design, and creating inspiring YouTube tutorials. We dive into his background, favorite gear, live improv sessions, sound design philosophies, and even DIY Eurorack projects.

Whether you're into the Korg OP-6, Hydrasynth, MicroFreak, or modular gear, you'll find loads of insight into sound design, improvisation, and the creative process.

👉 Check out Daniel's channel here: Chalkwalk Music YouTube
👉 Follow me for more synth chats, tutorials, and sound packs: [Your Channel Link]

⏱️ Timestamps
00:00 Introduction
00:38 Meet Daniel (Chalkwalk Music)
02:22 How Daniel got into music & synthesis
05:04 First synths and live improv experiences
07:51 Discovering sound design as performance
10:00 Breaking down sound design mindset
12:03 Favorite synths & workflow
15:50 Playing live vs online improv sessions
18:43 Music styles and jam sessions
21:04 Daniel's portable hardware setup
23:19 DAWs: Linux, Bitwig & Reaper workflow
25:01 Limiting gear & avoiding "more is more" trap
27:04 Hydrasynth, OP-6, and software vs hardware
33:00 FM synthesis approaches & user algorithms
37:01 Teaching sound design on YouTube
40:00 Creative challenges & video series ideas
43:09 DIY Eurorack modules & rhythm design
47:25 Building a modular system
48:55 Expressive controllers: Osmose & poly aftertouch
52:00 AI tools in music & coding experiments
55:52 What's next for Chalkwalk Music
56:49 Daniel's YouTube channel & music links
58:03 Wrap-up & final thoughts

✨ If you enjoy these chats, don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more synth discussions, tutorials, and sound design tips!

#synth #sounddesign #hydrasynth #opsix #eurorack #chalkwalkmusic

The Yamaha DX7 is one of the most iconic synthesizers of the 1980s, shaping pop, electronic, and film music with its groundbreaking FM synthesis engine. In this video, I sit down with Rob Puricelli (Pro Synth Network, Gear News) to explore the history, legacy, and lasting influence of the DX7 and its family of FM synths.

We cover everything from the origins of FM synthesis at Stanford University to Yamaha's early GS models, the launch of the DX7, and how it changed the sound of an era. Rob shares insights on programming, presets, and why the DX7's electric piano patch remains legendary. We also dive into later FM classics like the DX1, DX5, TX7, DX100, TX81Z, SY77, SY99, and the rare FS1R, as well as modern FM instruments like the Korg Opsix and Yamaha's Montage/ModX.

Whether you're a synth enthusiast, music producer, or just love 80s sounds, this deep dive will give you a new appreciation for one of the most influential instruments ever made.

Timestamps:
00:00 – Intro & guest: Rob Puricelli
05:25 – What is FM synthesis?
12:29 – Arrival of the DX7
14:40 – Why the DX7 changed everything
21:03 – The famous electric piano sound
23:36 – Other DX models
30:18 – Presets & programming
36:41 – The SY series
40:32 – FS1R & modern FM synths
47:43 – FM today & final thoughts

This week, Ian sits down with Alex Dalliance (aka Vulture Culture) to shine a light on the analog synths that deserve way more love. From the gritty charm of the DW-8000 to the overlooked brilliance of the Alpha Juno 2, we dig into the gear that delivers serious tone without the boutique price tag.

If you're tired of hearing about the same five synths over and over, this episode is your antidote. We cover real-world usability, sonic character, and why limitations can be a creative superpower.

⏱️ Timestamps – Synth Spotlights & Deep Dives
00:00 – Intro: Why underrated synths matter
01:46 – Matrix 12, Andromeda, Monopoly, Juno 6: Big names, mixed feelings
07:01 – DW-8000: Digital oscillators, analog soul
13:25 – DW-8000 vs Modwave: Warmth vs modern emulation
14:20 – Envelope programming tips for DW-8000
16:23 – DW-10,000 fantasy patches & filter resonance
18:05 – DW-8000's built-in delay: A secret weapon
19:44 – Behringer Pro-800: Prophet clone or missed opportunity?
24:18 – Korg Poly-800: Vintage value vs modern clones
27:38 – Dreadbox Typhon: Analog mono with digital FX
29:36 – Polyox: Soviet snarl and unique character
32:08 – Gen SX1000: Simplicity, nostalgia, and raw tone
34:02 – DCO synths: Avoiding redundancy in your rig
36:59 – JX-8P: Warm analog tone on a budget
38:05 – Matrix 6: Deep architecture, great value
40:07 – JX-10: Worth it with mods and programmers
46:00 – Alpha Juno 2: Bright, brassy, and criminally underrated
47:22 – Retroactive programmers: Unlocking hidden potential
49:20 – DW-8000 programming with Full Bucket emulator
50:36 – Poly-6 vs Juno 6: Surprising poll results
53:11 – Poly-6 battery leak warning & buying tips
54:33 – Why vintage synths still matter
56:03 – Synth golden eras: What makes a classic?

🎹 Join the conversation: What's your favorite underrated synth? Drop it in the comments—we might feature it next time!

This week on The Digital Lifestyle Show, I'm joined by Microsoft Surface MVP Rob Quickenden to dive into the latest Surface devices and what they mean for users.

We cover the new Surface Pro 12 and Laptop 13 models, Snapdragon vs Intel processors, Copilot+ PCs, and what it's like using these devices for music production, video editing, and day-to-day work.

00:00 Introduction
00:25 Welcoming Rob Quickenden back
01:00 AI features in Windows 11 (Recall, Copilot, Studio Effects)
03:00 How AI is rolling out in Windows Insider builds
05:20 The shift from Windows 10 to AI-powered Windows 11
06:00 Overview of new Surface Pro 11 & Laptop 7
07:00 The new Surface Pro 12 and Laptop 13 explained
08:10 Design changes – ports, keyboards & pen storage
12:00 Battery life on Snapdragon devices
14:00 What happened to Surface Go?
16:00 Performance of ARM vs Intel devices
20:00 Naming confusion & processor choices (Intel, AMD, Snapdragon)
24:00 App compatibility on ARM (Adobe, Cubase, plugins, Korg drivers)
29:00 Using Surface for music production setups
30:20 5G Surface Laptop – antennas & connectivity
33:20 Will there be a new Surface Go?
36:00 Ideal form factors & personal device stories
40:00 Tablets, pen support, and where Microsoft went with Surface
42:30 Innovation, Surface's role in Windows hardware
47:00 What's next for Surface? Studio, accessories & naming
50:00 GPU options, performance devices & niche power users
55:00 Why Microsoft's focus is business and productivity now
57:00 Copilot identity crisis vs ChatGPT awareness
58:45 Wrapping up & where to find Rob

Rob shares his first impressions of the new Surface devices, design changes like the redesigned keyboards and pen storage, and what it's like to live with ARM-powered hardware. We also talk about compatibility for creators using apps like Cubase, Camtasia, and plugins on the new Snapdragon-based Surfaces.

If you're thinking of upgrading to a new Surface Pro, Surface Laptop, or Copilot+ PC, this conversation is packed with insights from real-world use.

🔗 Connect with Rob: robquickenden.blog

👉 Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more deep dives into Windows, Surface, and music tech.

#MicrosoftSurface #SurfacePro12 #SurfaceLaptop13 #CopilotPlusPC #Windows11