Beat Making
Superbooth 2022: The 8 Best Highlights from the Event
Superbooth is a big event for anyone interested in synthesizers, modular and electronic music hardware.
It’s an industry trade show held in Berlin that welcomes gear manufacturers from all over the world.
With this year’s event concluded, it’s time to break down the most exciting releases, announcements and rumors from the floor.
1. Oberheim OB-X8
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I’ll kick this list off with the most eagerly anticipated synth seen at Superbooth 2022.
Oberheim is back with a completely new synthesizer that harnesses the power of its rich heritage of instrument design.
The model number suggests the OB-X8 will be a modern successor to Oberheim’s iconic 80s =-era polysynths, the OB-X, OB-8 and OB-Xa.
Promising an expanded set of features with uncompromising vintage analog sound, the OB-X8 is an exciting development for anyone who loves the classic sound of polyphonic analog synthesis.
2. Polyend Play
Hardware sequencers have made a steady resurgence as producers discover the creative benefits of a DAW-less workflow.
Hardware sequencers have made a steady resurgence as producers discover the creative benefits of a DAW-less workflow.
But until recently, the comeback hasn’t extended to sample-based music production stations beyond a few holdouts like the Akai MPC series.
The Play is an exciting new option in this category that offers the robust sequencing of Polyend’s other gear with a flexible sample engine that includes over 30 packs of built-in sounds.
As the manufacturer claims, it wants to be at the center of your studio!
3. Teenage Engineering OP-1 field
Teenage Engineering is back with a surprise update to the unique instrument that put them on the map in 2011.
The original OP-1 has maintained a dedicated following since its introduction thanks to its unique workflow and eye-catching design.
With used prices on the rise, a new edition was a smart move for Teenage Engineering to revamp its flagship product.
The Swedish company claims the OP-1 field has made over one hundred distinct improvements on its predecessor.
If you’ve always wanted an OP-1, it might be the right time to make the move!
4. Eventide Misha
Legendary studio effects manufacturer Eventide has made the leap to modular gear with their unique Misha instrument and sequencer.
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Promising a more musical workflow based on intervals, Misha also features an onboard waveform generator that can be used as a sound source.
If you’re looking for a next generation sequencing system for your modular rig, the Misha should be on your list to check out.
5. Gamechanger Motor Synth
Gamechanger Audio is a company committed to truly innovative concepts in sound.
From the Plasma Pedal distortion device to the bizarre optical reverb of the Light Pedal, their products are often inspired by concepts from physics.
The Motor Synth uses rotating discs spinning at precise frequencies to generate sound.
The Motor Synth uses rotating discs spinning at precise frequencies to generate sound.
The result is a raw and powerful waveform like nothing else you’ve heard from a synth.
Superbooth 2022 saw the announcement of the Motor Synth MK II which includes a digital oscillator voice to expand its tonal palette.
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6. Elektron Syntakt
Elektron is a huge name when it comes to creative groovebox workflows in electronic music.
The Swedish company debuted a new edition to its compact form factor lineup at Superbooth 2022.
Syntakt is a 12-track drum computer and synthesizer that combines both analog and digital synthesis with Elektron’s signature style.
It features many of the sound generating machines from other notable Elektron products, including the Analog Rytm and Model:Cycles.
7. Dreadbox Dysmetria
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Dreadbox has been delivering analog instruments with compelling design and huge sound since 2012.
In keeping with their DIY spirit, the company has always offered kits for savvy musicians who wish to assemble their own synths.
The latest is an intriguing groove synth called Dysmetria that puts a fun sequencer and full synth voice together in a Eurorack compatible package.
If you’re handy with a soldering iron you can save some money on its burbling basslines and rhythms.
8. Erica Synths SYNTRX II
When it comes to vintage synths, the original EMS Synthi AKS is held in high regard.
When it comes to vintage synths, the original EMS Synthi AKS is held in high regard.
Erica Synths received approval from the original designer Peter Zinovieff to create their own reimagination.
Now in its second edition, the SYNTRX II features even more upgrades for the modern electronic musician, including a piano roll sequencer, patch memory and assignable outputs.
Super synthesis
New developments in electronic music instruments are always exciting to hear about.
Every year at Superbooth, the world’s most innovative companies come together to show off their latest products.
If you’re looking for the next game changing tool in for you workflow, it’s worth keeping tabs on the event to see what’s new.
Michael Hahn is an engineer and producer at Autoland and member of the swirling indie rock trio Slight.
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