Vintage Synth Explorer - Kenton Electronics

Control Freak

Complete hands-on control of MIDI is now possible, giving control back to you, the musician. The Control Freak's Programmable sliders & buttons allow the fingertip freedom of expression that has been missing since the days of analog and the advent of MIDI. The Control Freak is friendly to use with its extensive memories and digital readout. Worried about your programming skills? Pre-programmed profiles for a wide range of machines are supplied with the machine and free profiles for other synths and sound cards are available from the download area.

Editing the Freak is now easier than ever. The Virtual Freak Software Editor for Windows PC is available absolutely FREE. The Control Freak has been designed to allow live, real-time editing of MIDI parameters and has a vast range of applications. Boasting eight programmable, professional-quality sliders and eight programmable buttons, it may be used to edit synth & sound module parameters, adjust sequencer controllers or to create versatile lighting effects - all in REAL-TIME.

Live editing is no longer limited to turning small knobs on your old analog equipment... it is now possible to adjust parameters via MIDI! Each slider or button may generate controller information, sysex, notes, program change, pitch-bend or aftertouch or a combination of these. Editing is simple with the aid of a backlit LCD display and easy to use interface. Just imagine being able to control parameters such as VCF, pan, and pitch-bend on your sequencer.

SPECIFICATIONS

8 fully-programmable 60mm sliders
8 fully-programmable push-buttons
4 (x2 with shift key) programmable function keys Capable of sending any command or combination of commands. May also be used for instant program selection
4 edit keys
Data entry knob
Two line back-lit LCD display
MIDI In/Out/Thru sockets
Two external 1/4" input jacks which may be used with a foot pedal to replace any slider or button.
External 1/4" input jacks may also be used for accurate CV / Gate to MIDI conversion!
Intuitive, easy to use editing and user interface (with text editor)
Supplied pre-programmed with profiles for popular synthesizers
On-board library with a capacity for over 5000 individual profiles
Advanced learn mode allows the user to match the unit to any synth
Future library updates will be available for direct download from our Web site (Flash upgradable)
128 User memory locations each capable of storing assignments for every slider and button. (ie. 1024 virtual sliders and 1024 virtual buttons!)
Sliders and buttons may be individually named for every assignment in every memory location
Sliders and buttons can take a parameter from another slider (eg. If one button is set to send a note on message, it can take its velocity from a slider position)
Buttons may be operated in three modes: momentary - send command when pressed, toggle - toggle between two commands with subsequent presses, on/off - send one command when pressed and another when released
Sliders and buttons can send virtually any MIDI message in real time including multiple messages from the same slider/button
User selectable global MIDI channel feature which may, if required, override individual program settings
Built-in MIDI clock generator
Comprehensive MIDI analyser mode for identifying problems
Supplied with power adaptor (UK only)
Dimensions approx 270 x 160 x 55mm

Control Freak Studio Edition Top

The CONTROL FREAK STUDIO EDITION has been designed to allow live, real-time editing of MIDI parameters and has a vast range of applications. Boasting sixteen programmable, professional-quality sliders and sixteen programmable buttons, it may be used to edit synth & sound module parameters, adjust sequencer controllers or to create versatile lighting effects - all in REAL-TIME.

Live editing is no longer limited to turning small knobs on your old analog equipment... it is now possible to adjust parameters via MIDI! Each slider or button may generate controller information, sysex, notes, program change, pitch-bend or aftertouch, allowing instant control of up to 16 parameters. Editing is simple with the aid of a backlit LCD display and easy to use interface. Just imagine being able to directly control parameters such as VCF, pan, and pitch-bend. Editing the Freak is now easier than ever. The Virtual Freak Software Editor for Windows PC is available absolutely FREE.

SPECIFICATIONS

16 Fully programmable 60mm sliders
16 Fully programmable push-buttons
4 (x2 with shift key) programmable function keys Capable of sending any command or combination of commands. May also be used for instant program selection
4 edit keys
Data entry knob
Two line back-lit LCD display
MIDI In/Out/Thru sockets
Two external 1/4" input jacks which may be used with a foot pedal to replace any slider or button.
External 1/4" input jacks may also be used for accurate CV / Gate to MIDI conversion!
Intuitive, easy to use editing and user interface (with text editor)
Supplied pre-programmed with profiles for popular synthesizers
On-board library with a capacity for over 5000 individual profiles
Advanced learn mode allows the user to match the unit to any synth
Future library updates will be available for direct download from this web site (Flash upgradable)
64 User memory locations each capable of storing assignments for every slider and button. (ie. 1024 virtual sliders and 1024 virtual buttons!)
Sliders and buttons may be individually named for every assignment in every memory location
Sliders and buttons can take a parameter from another slider (eg. If one button is set to send a note on message, it can take its velocity from a slider position)
Buttons may be operated in three modes: momentary - send command when pressed, toggle - toggle between two commands with subsequent presses, on/off - send one command when pressed and another when released
Sliders and buttons can send virtually any MIDI message in real time including multiple messages from the same slider/button
User selectable global MIDI channel feature which may, if required, override individual program settings
Built-in MIDI clock generator
Comprehensive MIDI analyser mode for identifying problems
Supplied with power adaptor (UK only)
Dimensions approx 403 x 160 x 55mm

Control Freak Live Top

The CONTROL FREAK LIVE is designed to give you the features of the previous Control Freaks optimized for live use! It has 16 rotary knobs and 8 buttons which are fully programmable. There are also 4 edit keys and 4 programmable function keys. It comes with tons of pre-programmed control assignment profiles for many synths and applications. Of course you can program your own into it for total hands on control of any MIDI instrument in your live rig! Also on-board are a MIDI clock generator, MIDI analyzer, and a user-selectable global MIDI channel feature.

SPECIFICATIONS

16 fully-programmable knobs
8 fully-programmable push-buttons (plus a further 8 by using shift)
64 user memory locations, each capable of storing assignments for every knob and button
4 programmable function keys (x2 with shift key)
4 edit keys and data entry knob
Two-line, back-lit LCD display
MIDI in/Out/Thru sockets
Two 1/4" external input jacks which may be used with a foot pedal to replace any knob or button. May also be used for CV/Gate to MIDI conversion!
Intuitive, easy-to-use editing and user-interface
Pre-programmed with profiles for a wide range of popular applications
Hundreds of additional profiles available for download FREE from the download area
Advanced learn mode
Individually-named knobs and buttons for every assignment in every memory location
Knobs and buttons may take a parameter from another knob. For instance, if a button is set to send a note-on message, it can take its velocity from another knob's position
Knobs and buttons may send any MIDI message in real time, including multiple messages from the same knob or button
Buttons may be operated in three modes: momentary, toggle and on/off
User-selectable global MIDI channel feature which may, if required, override individual program settings
Built-in MIDI clock generator
Comprehensive MIDI analyser mode for quick problem identification
Automatically merges with incoming MIDI data (merge can be turned off)
Supplied complete with power adapter (UK, Eur or US)
Rugged metal construction
Dimensions 270mm x 160mm x 55mm

Pro-4 Top

For the serious studio, the rack-mounting PRO-4 can drive up to 10 instruments at once. The PRO-4 has 4 CV & Gate outputs, 8 fully programmable auxiliary CV outputs, 4 LFOs, 8 user memories and includes a polyphonic mode. DCB, KADI, Wasp and MIDI out ports are also fitted as standard, as are DIN Sync 24 and Arpeggio clock outputs. The ultimate analog synth user's dream machine. It has been used by Astral Projection.

SPECIFICATIONS

Designed to control any type of mono-synth
Switchable for V/oct & HZ/V scaling systems (older ones lacked HZ/V)
V-trig (up to 15v) or S-trig (with or without pull-up)
Transpose - up & down 12 semitones
Auxillary CV controllable by any MIDI controller
Programmable LFO - 9 wave shapes inc. random
LFO can be synchronized to MIDI clock
LFO can modulate pitch &/or aux cv
LFO speed is adjustable in real time over MIDI
Selectable note priority -newest/lowest/highest
Old notes are remembered for trill effects
Portamento rate adjustable in real time over MIDI
Multiple and single trigger modes
Adjustable pitch-bend range
Any MIDI channel can be selected
Set-ups stored in non-volatile memory
MIDI monitor mode - for easy MIDI troubleshooting
Sync 24 & Clock pulse mode
5 Digital Outputs
Parameters can be edited using System Exclusive
MIDI Thru socket

Pro-2000 Top

The PRO-2000 features 2 CV & Gate outputs and 6 fully programmable auxiliary CV outputs, 2 LFOs and 7 user memories. DIN Sync 24 and Arpeggio clock outputs are also fitted as standard. Backlit LCD display. The auxiliary outputs can also drive another 3 CV/Gate synthesizers if required. Optional extras: 1U rack-mount kit, KADI/Wasp or DCB port.

The PRO-2000 replaces the Pro-2, a converter which sold three thousand units and received unanimous acclaim both in the press and from customers. It has been used by Astral Projection.

SPECIFICATIONS

Two completely independent CV channels
Switchable V/Oct & Hz/V scaling options
Optional KADI or DCB port on its own channel
2 Independent LFO's assignable to any output
In-built LFOs synchronizable to MIDI clock
16x2 Character LCD display
Software set-up of tuning & scale
Multiple configuration memories
Internal power supply
LFO speed adjustable in real time
Built-in portamento adjustable in real-time
MIDI out with filtering to 'channelize' an omni on synth
Set-ups stored in non-volatile memory
Designed to control all types of mono-synth
V-trig (up to 15v) or S-trig (with or without pull-up)
Selectable note priority newest/lowest/highest
Adjustable pitch-bend range
Any MIDI channel can be selected
Set-ups stored in non-volatile memory
MIDI monitor mode - for easy MIDI troubleshooting
Sync 24 & Clock pulse outputs
Six software-assignable auxiliary outputs for
MIDI Out and Thru sockets

Pro-Solo Top

The PRO-SOLO is designed to control one monosynth and features a single CV/Gate output, fully programmable auxiliary CV output and 1 LFO. Editing is easy with its LED display and non-volatile setup memory. Can also be used as a Sync 24 and arpeggio clock converter.

The PRO-SOLO is the most inexpensive MIDI to CV converter in our range. However, its range of features is extensive. Housed in a rugged steel case, this small (130mm x 98mm x 40mm) unit is robust, yet extremely accurate. The Pro-Solo can not only be used as a MIDI to CV converter to control a monophonic synth, but also as MIDI to Sync24 converter or a comprehensive MIDI analyser.

SPECIFICATIONS

Designed to control all types of mono-synth
Switchable for V/oct & HZ/V scaling systems
V-trig (up to 15v) or S-trig (with or without pull-up)
Fine tune & scale are software controllable
Transpose - up & down 12 semitones
Auxillary CV controllable by any MIDI controller
Programmable LFO - 9 wave shapes inc. random
LFO can be synchronized to MIDI clock
LFO can modulate pitch &/or aux CV
LFO speed is adjustable in real time over MIDI
Selectable note priority -newest/lowest/highest
Old notes are remembered for trill effects
Portamento - rate adjustable in real time over MIDI
Multiple and single trigger modes
Adjustable pitch-bend range
Any MIDI channel can be selected
Set-ups stored in non-volatile memory
MIDI monitor mode - for easy MIDI troubleshooting
Sync 24 & Clock pulse mode
MIDI Thru socket

Pro-DCB Top

PRO-DCB is a Bi-directional MIDI-DCB Interface for Juno 60s and some Jupiter 8s. The Kenton Pro-DCB brings instant MIDI to those much-loved instruments. Just plug in and go.

As well as offering control of notes and program change (Jupiter-8 only), the interface also has output sockets for filter control and arpeggio clocking. In addition, it boasts a built-in programmable LFO and works both ways (ie. it's bi-directional), so your Juno can be used as a master keyboard if required. We think that you'll find this the most comprehensive MIDI-DCB converter available today.

*JP-8 must have an existing DCB or OP-8 socket

SPECIFICATIONS

MIDI In/Out and Thru Sockets
Aux output (for VCF or VCA control)
ARP Clock Output (for syncing the arpeggiator)
Fully programmable built-in LFO with 9 waveshapes, including S&H.
DCB output (to keyboard)
Power Supply 9v-15v
A DCB lead is included in this price, to connect to your Juno/Jupiter.
However, please state the type of connector required if you have a Jupiter-8 (either 15 or 20 pin) as Roland used two types.

Pro-Kadi Top

PRO-KADI interfaces with almost all drum machines. Cheaper than a retrofit and just as effective, it can be used with the TR-808, TR-606, CR78, CR8000, Wasp and many, many more. Most drum machines do need a small modification to run with this interface. Kenton can supply and/or fit sockets kits to interface your drum machine with the PRO-KADI. Kits are available for the TR-808, TR-606, CR-78 and CR-8000, Simmons SDS-5 and 7.

This multi-mode MIDI trigger unit is highly configurable and capable of driving up to 13 outputs. Hundreds of other control applications exist, such as lighting control, robotics and ignition of small explosives for theatre productions. Please email us if you have a specific MIDI control project.

SPECIFICATIONS

Wasp Mode To Control Wasp/Gnat Synths
KADI Mode To Control Drum Machines With A Kenton Socket Kit
(Accent Threshold Adjustable In KADI Mode)
Trigger Mode: 13 TTL Outputs
TTL Outputs May Be Latching (High When Key Pressed), Or Pulses
Pulses May Be Positive Or Negative (Inverted)
Pulse Width Adjustable Between 100us-10ms (100us Steps)
Long 250ms Pulse Width Available For Control Of Relays
Individual Note Numbers Assignable For Each TTL Output
Note Or Program Change Control Of Triggers Possible
MIDI Thru
Sync 24 and Arpeggio Clock Outputs
Variable Clock Divide Rate And Polarity
User Friendly Interface With 3 Digit LED Display
Power Supply: 9-15V dc 100mA
Dimensions: 165mmx96mmx42mm

Mono-Synth MIDI Retrofits: Top

MIDI Retrofits are available from Kenton for the following Mono-Synths:

MINIMOOG, MOOG PRODIGY, MOOG SOURCE, OBERHEIM OB-1, SEQUENTIAL PRO-ONE, ROLAND SH 101, ARP ODYSSEY Mk 1, ARP ODYSSEY Mk 2, ARP 2600.

SPECIFICATIONS

MIDI In/Thru
MIDI In (any channel) for at least 5 octaves (notes 36 - 96)
Pitch bend
mod wheel
aftertouch
velocity
MIDI volume
any controller (assignable)
sustain
active sensing
all notes
off
omni on-off
reset all controllers.
Aftertouch can control, modulation, pitch bend, filter
Velocity can control filter loudness (volume)
Any controller can control filter
MIDI volume can control loudness (volume)
Glide function can be used with MIDI
All setups are stored in non-volatile RAM

Poly-Synth MIDI Retrofits: Top

MIDI Retrofits are available from Kenton for the following Poly-Synths:

OBERHEIM, OBX, OB-8, OBX-a, PROPHET 5 rev 2, PROPHET 5 rev 3.0, PROPHET 5 rev 3.1, PROPHET 5 rev 3.2, PROPHET 5 rev 3.3, PPG WAVE (all versions ), KORG POLYSIX, KORG POLY 61, KORG TRIDENT, KORG MONOPOLY, MEMORYMOOG, ROLAND JUPITER 8, ROLAND JUPITER 6, ROLAND JUPITER 4, ROLAND JUNO 6, ROLAND JUNO 60, ROLAND VOCODER VP-330, RHODES CHROMA, YAMAHA CS-70M, YAMAHA CS-80.

SPECIFICATIONS

MIDI Thru
MIDI out (any channel) for notes and program change.
MIDI in (any channel) for notes (5 octaves notes 36 - 96)
program change
pitch bend
mod wheel
aftertouch
velocity
MIDI volume
any controller (assignable)
sustain
active sensing
all notes off
omni on-off
reset all controllers.
Aftertouch can control modulation, pitch bend, filter
Velocity can control filter, VCA (volume)
Any MIDI controller can control filter.
MIDI volume can control VCA (volume)
All setups stored in non-volatile RAM

Drum Machine MIDI Retrofits: Top

MIDI Retrofits are available from Kenton for the following Drum Machines:

ROLAND TR808, ROLAND CR 78, OBERHEIM DMX, LINNDRUM Mk 1, LINNDRUM Mk 2, LINNDRUM Mk 3

SPECIFICATIONS

MIDI In/Out/Thru
MIDI in & out on any MIDI channel (selectable and stored) for the drum sounds which can each be assigned to any MIDI
MIDI clock and stop start are also sent and received - received continue may be ignored, or treated as start.
Program change (used in assigning MIDI notes to sounds)
Omni on-off
All setups are stored in non-volatile RAM
and more...

Spin Doctor Top

Spin Doctor is an entry level product, designed not only to appeal to the newcomer, but also to anyone wanting to add knobs to their setup. Spin Doctor has a rugged steel case and is compatible with the wealth of Control Freak profiles available from Kenton's website. The editing facilites on-board are naturally less comprehensive than those on the Freaks. You do have the facility to assign the knobs to controllers on-the-fly. However for more serious editing, there's a free software editor, or you can use a Control Freak. Released in 2003.

SPECIFICATIONS

16 fully programmable knobs
25 program memories compatible with Freak profiles
1 programmable function key
1 edit key
Data entry knob
MIDI In / Out sockets
Soft Thru automatically merges data from MIDI In
4 character LED display with scrolling text
Intuitive easy-to-use user-interface
Pre-programmed with popular profiles to get you started
Hundreds of additional profiles available for free download
Software editor available
Controllers assignable from the front panel
Can send Controllers, NRPNs, SysEx, Program changes, Notes and much more
Supplied complete with power adaptor (UK, Eur, US)
Rugged metal construction
Dimensions 242mm x 120mm x 50mm