{"product_id":"bastl-instruments-softpop-sp2","title":"Bastl Instruments Softpop SP2","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003ciframe src=\"\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/CdMhb5YGRtA\" width=\"560\" height=\"314\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/iframe\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSoftpop SP2 is a radical subtractive synth\u003c\/strong\u003e under the influence of unconventional digital control. It’s a rare beast that excels at both melody and noise in equal measure.\u003cbr\u003eSP2’s favorite sounds include bassline bangers, angelic chord progressions, distorted beats, and water droplets. Softpop also has an external input with enough gain and saturation to process any sound thru the filter and VCA.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHeart and Brain\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe heart of SP2 is an analog, modular synth replete with lush tones and a chaotic disposition. Its brain is a complex digital sequencer and quantizer that brings (some) order to the chaos. The analog heart and the digital brain support each other while also pushing their behaviors out of normal routines in surprising ways.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eBeyond 8 steps\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSP2’s sequencer is built around simple 8-step loops of notes, gates, and slides called PATTERNS. These PATTERNS (8 per BANK) can be played and chained in any order (and in real-time) to create longer sequences. Softpop's sequencer expands on this classic format by adding 8 SCALES of user-definable quantization, 8 playback modes, and 8 performance FX, all of which can be independently chained and looped!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse the SCALE chaining to build chord progressions or reach for playback modes to browse the 8 steps in different ways. Add randomness and modulation to the pitch with the PITCH MOD fader and transpose the sequence with the PITCH fader. Temporary FX can be played on the fly to help you build transitions or looped for yet another degree of sequenced complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSoftpop SP2 is a powerful analog sound processor!\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePlug any external audio signal into the SP2 to radically transform its sound with the built-in filter, VCA, and overdrive. Create stepped modulation with the sequencer and auto-wah style effects with the input-tracking envelope follower. Randomize it all with the sample \u0026amp; hold and use the 37-point patchbay to dive into the modulation madness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere are a few possibilities for SP2 signal processing:\u003cbr\u003eModulated overdrive, stepped filter, auto-filter (auto-wah), random filter, audio-rate modulated filter, resonant distortion, feedback distortion, MIDI-synced slicer, sequenced ring-modulator, MIDI-controlled ring-modulator, compressor\/expander, and plenty more to be discovered.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eTonality\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSoftpop has a unique voice that reaches beyond classic subtractive timbres. It is playable by MIDI, and for all the sequencing fun, it features a quantizer with 8 user-definable SCALEs that can also be set by MIDI. SP2’s analog triangle core VCO has a built-in automatic digital tuning feature so that your melodies will be in tune in all octaves in just a few seconds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eConnectivity, portability\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEurorack compatibility, analog sync, and MIDI connectivity make the SP2 a mighty collaborator when combined with other instruments. USB power makes Softpop ideal for battery-powered setups, while its immediate fader interface is superbly suited for performance situations. Like any real instrument, Softpop provides a lot of depth accessible by button combinations. These are described on the enclosure so you won’t get sucked into your phone while searching for the manual.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCASPERxBASTL\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSoftpop is the culmination of a near decade-long creative partnership between Casper Electronics and Bastl Instruments and brings together the strengths and quirky design stylings of lead engineers Peter Edwards and Václav Peloušek. We feel it’s our best work to date and a product of pure passion for innovative synthesis, music-making, and experimentation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are a few things very unique to Softpop that you will not find anywhere else. For instance the super pingable filter with the POP cross-modulation, the quantizer chaining, the playback modes, and their chaining or the MIDI-controlled quantizer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Softpop SP2 DNA comes from the original softPop, a unique art object inspired by a cult-classic synth called the Benjolin designed by Dutch synth genius Rob Hordijk. The primary locus of inspiration from the Benjolin was the intricate interplay of the controls that create sonic behaviors more akin to a creature you can befriend than a studio tool you can control.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFeatures\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFully analog signal path with integrated digital control\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePatchbay with 37 eurorack compatible patch-points for ultra-flexibility\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLight orb for psychedelic inspiration\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAnalog triangle core oscillator with PWM input and pulse and triangle outputs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOr digital oscillator with several waveforms and waveshaping\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAutomatic oscillator tuning and octave-wide fine-tune control (for analog VCO)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eQuantized V\/OCT semitone transpose\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eState variable resonant filter with lowpass, bandpass, and highpass modes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePOP control for unique subtle and distorted timbres\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFlexible attack-decay cycling Envelope with a ton of control inputs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDrone or envelope mode switch for the VCA\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMusical sequencer with a lot of tricks\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e8 step sequencer with pattern chaining to extend the length\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSequenceable scale quantizer with 8 user-editable scales\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e8 patterns per bank, 8 banks (saved on demand)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEnvelope gates per step\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSlide option per step for that acid feel\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlayback modes will turn your simple patterns on their head\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTemporary FX section (ratchets, arps, noise, and more)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCV, gate, and clock outputs from the sequencer\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExternal input for processing audio with dynamics analyzer\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAnalog sync Input\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTempo section with divider\/multiplier\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMIDI input for sync and musical control\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eXY crossfader utility section and 4-way multiple for advanced patches\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eSOFTPOP2 DIGITAL VCO UPGRADE v1.0 (09\/2022)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSP2 has officially leveled up. This free firmware update unlocks enhanced MIDI control, MIDI CC implementation, new CV and GATE output modes, and a bunch of quality-of-life improvements. But the real big news is that the original analog oscillator (bless its pitch-drifting soul) has gone digital. That means vastly improved tuning precision and stability and 8 new variable waveforms to explore and run through SP2's rich and unruly analog filter and VCA.\u003cbr\u003eDetailed description of all new features in the digital VCO upgrade manual. This update requires moving a jumper on the SP2 circuit board before uploading the new firmware. Files and upgrade manual available in the Downloads section below.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eNew features\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDigital VCO\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFine-tune fader mode\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eENV G and SLIDE G trigger\/gate modes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEnvelope gate probability as FX8\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTriggered pitch change mode\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVCO Pitch Limiter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCV pitch tracking mode\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMIDI clock detection\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFX controlled by MIDI notes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEnvelope triggered by Note On mode\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMIDI CC implementation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMIDI transpose\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eImprovements and bug fixes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNew button combos\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003eTutorials\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=iGky7Z9wfA0\u0026amp;list=PLBF4KYAe97cR3M0IS5FXgeJuVXuuPL__r\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003eAll BASTL SOFTPOP SP2 tutorials in one playlist\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat’s in the box\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSoftpop SP2\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eQuickstart guide\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e5 patch cables (15cm: Green, Dark Green, Brown, Black and White)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMicro USB cable (excl. power supply)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRubber feet\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSticker\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eTechnical details\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003epower: 5V via Micro USB\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003epower consumption: \u0026lt;250mA\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003edimensions: 173 x 112 x 41 mm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003einputs are capable of receiving eurorack signals\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e16-pin protected eurorack power connector requires 5V from busboard: \u0026lt;250mA\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eeurorack size rail adaptors available as open-source files\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eall outputs are 5Vpp except for PULSE, EDGE, ENV, BP, and DYNAMICS that are 4Vpp\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDownloads\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003equickstart guide \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/bastl-instruments.com\/files\/softpop2-quickstart-web.pdf\"\u003epdf\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003edigital VCO reference manual \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/bastl-instruments.com\/files\/softpop2-digitalvco-manual.pdf\"\u003epdf\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e日本 (nihon) manual \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/bastl-instruments.com\/files\/nihon-softpop2-manual.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"\u003epdf\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003enew digital VCO firmware v1.0 (09\/2022) \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/bastl-instruments.com\/files\/softpop2-fw-dvco-upgrade-V1-0.wav\"\u003ewav\u003c\/a\u003e \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/bastl-instruments.com\/files\/softpop2-fw-dvco-upgrade-v1-0.zip\"\u003ezip\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003edigital VCO upgrade manual \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/bastl-instruments.com\/files\/softpop2-upgrade-manual.pdf\"\u003epdf\u003c\/a\u003e \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=zpC-Dux6AjM\"\u003evideo\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003epatch sheet A4 \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/bastl-instruments.com\/files\/softpop2-patch-sheet-a4.pdf\"\u003epdf\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eeurorack adaptor \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/github.com\/bastl-instruments\/SoftPop2_eurorack_converter\"\u003egitHub\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003epress release \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/bastl-instruments.com\/files\/softpop2-press-release.pdf\"\u003epdf\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003emedia files (hi-res pictures, wallpapers etc.) \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/drive.google.com\/drive\/folders\/1LJLTlBsH8ktIXba8hJ6yKyo222p9hCdo\"\u003edrive\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/bastl-instruments.com\/support\/helpline\/softpop2\"\u003eFAQ\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eLegacy analog VCO firmware v1.2 (03\/2022)\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAll units from the batch shipped in February 2022 have version v1.1 installed. Please update to v1.2 for better sync stability (or you can switch to the digital VCO).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eanalog VCO reference manual \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/bastl-instruments.com\/files\/manual-softpop2-web.pdf\"\u003epdf\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003elast analog VCO firmware v1.2 (03\/2022) \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/bastl-instruments.com\/files\/softpop2-fw-v1-2.wav\"\u003ewav\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003erelease notes \u0026amp; how to update to v1.2 \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/bastl-instruments.com\/files\/softpop2-fw-release-notes_V1.2.pdf\"\u003epdf\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Bastl Instruments","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53125436211539,"sku":"210000002546","price":609.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1043\/4052\/1299\/files\/006-01-1000x649.jpg?v=1772275862","url":"https:\/\/www.voltmusicstore.com\/products\/bastl-instruments-softpop-sp2","provider":"Volt Music Store","version":"1.0","type":"link"}