NAMM 2011 - Karma-Labs Updates on Yamaha Motif XF/XS, Korg KRONOS, and New Video

Karma-Labs sent out their latest news letter with news from NAMM 2011. Get the officical scoop on KARMA Motif Software to be released for Yamaha Motif XF/XS.
Korg announcement for the new KRONOS workstation, featuring KARMA. Finally, read about new video content: "The Challenger" created by Stephen Kay with the KRONOS.

KARMA Motif Software to be released for Yamaha Motif XF/XS

The power of KARMA comes to the Motif XF/XS series

Karma-Lab is pleased to announce the development and upcoming release of "KARMA Motif Software" for the PC/Mac ($199 direct from Karma-Lab).

This brand-new entry in their line of software applications brings KARMA algorithmic music technology, previously only available for Korg workstations, to the Yamaha Motif XS and the new Yamaha Motif XF platforms.

KARMA Motif's Performances use the Motif's Song/Mixing mode, where each of the 64 songs is a complete, up to 16 part multi-track six-module KARMA algorithmic music groove, with a left hand and right hand zone for controlling KARMA and soloing on top of it.

KARMA Motif also debuts the newest, most advanced, third-generation KARMA 3.0 technology with a host of new features including:

- 8-track design (6 KARMA Modules, 2 Keyboard Layers) per Performance.

- Per-track Volume and Mute stored in each of the 32 Scenes - individually adjust the mix of all parts in each scene, and which parts are playing.

- Fill/Stop Feature - use one or more modules as a melodic or drum fill, with the ability to stop and start other modules automatically.

- Advanced Stutter Feature - rapidly "stutter" (retrigger) the entire groove at different rhythmic resolutions, providing an effect similar to how it would sound if you sampled the entire KARMA groove and then replicated small slices of the beginning of the sample in your DAW. From machine-gun like stutters to slow triplet hits, it adds a completely new dimension to a KARMA Performance ... and much more.

Visit the forum announcement in our new Motif XF/XS forum for complete details and to join in the discussions. Check it out at http://www.karma-lab.com/for...

Korg announces new KRONOS workstation, featuring KARMA

The Game Has Been Changed KRONOS is more than a new instrument. It is a milestone in synthesis and workstation evolution; one that embodies fresh ideas and breakthrough technologies. KRONOS brings together multiple sound engines working in harmony and new interactive performance features that reflect the way musicians play. Most importantly, KRONOS provides a seemingly inexhaustible supply of breathtaking, spectacular sounds. Prepare to be amazed.

Nine Engines; a Universe of Sound KRONOS unites nine individual synthesis engines in a single instrument, each providing the finest sound creation techniques available. Together, they represent not only the rich legacy of Korg, but the history of the electronic keyboard industry itself. Dig into the classic sounds of timeless instruments that are still loved to this day. Enjoy unique sounds that once startled the world. Venture into new sonic territory with sounds that have only become possible now.

Visit the forum announcement in our new KRONOS forum for complete details and to join in the discussions. Check it out at http://www.karma-lab.com/for...

New video content: "The Challenger" created with KRONOS

This Friday, January 28, 2011, marks the 25th anniversary of the Challenger Space Shuttle Disaster

KARMA Developer Stephen Kay releases a brand new tribute song/video

While this is not really specifically related to Karma-Lab, I wanted to take this opportunity to share my recent 6-month labor of love with all of you, in the hopes that it may touch you, inspire you, make you remember that specific event and the seven brave explorers who "gave their all, just to lead the way."

The video/song is titled "The Challenger (Where No One's Gone Before)", you can watch it on YouTube in HD, and leave comments there if you wish. Check it out at http://www.youtube.com/watch...

There's also a discussion thread in our new KRONOS forum.
{http://www.karma-lab.com/forum/showthread.php?t=17682}

There's a support site I set up for it that details the lyrics, the story behind the song (it's actually a re-recorded 25 year old composition I wrote immediately after the event happened, and never was able to release or publish), information about the misson and the astronauts, info on the recording and production of the song (some great analog gear stories), resources and links, and more at http://www.ChallengerTribute...

If you like the song/video, and are touched by it in some way, I'd greatly appreciate your sharing it around, and remembering these courageous pioneers in your thoughts.

- Stephen Kay, KARMA Developer