New synth - Doepfer Pocket Control

Here's something I've been chasing for some time, a Doepfer Pocket Control. Basically similar to the PhatBoy and other MIDI controllers, it has presets for many useful applications including performance control of the Doepfer MAQ 16-3 sequencer - so it should be handy for that at least. Pity about the hideous camouflage finish, though...

New synth - Yamaha MU100R

The Yamaha MU100R isn't that interesting in itself - it's basically a G-MIDI module - but I bought this one because it comes with two optional boards fitted, the VL-PLG and VH-PLG. The first is essentially the same as the VL-70M, an acoustic modelling instrument which I've owned before and never been able to do much with. But since they now go for around £400, it was a bargain getting this MU100R for £200. The other board is a harmony generator, so probably not of much use except for vocals. The architecture of the MU100R is obtuse, but I've accessed its many interesting pad sounds plus the VL tones. My main ambition is to actually find a VL sound that's useable on my album!