(Un)filtered weirdness: let’s embrace tube-powered synth lines (Korg X911 and Sound City Studio 20)

In this video, I’ll explore some distinctive and surprising gear, starting with the Sound City Studio 20, a UK-built tube amp known for its focused headroom and deep bass, well-suited for overdriven tones. I’ll also feature the Korg X911 Guitar Synthesizer, which transforms guitar signals into monophonic analog synth sounds like trumpet and bass, along with the Electro-Harmonix 8 Step Program, which adds filtered expression thanks to its sequencer. The setup includes a Celestion V-Type speaker housed in the Marshall SV20C, delivering smooth tonal breakup. Using the AKG D70 microphone and my modified Aria Pro 2 “Mad Axe” guitar, the audio was captured on a Yamaha MT-50 4-track cassette recorder to retain a tape-saturated feel.

???? About the Sound City Studio 20:
This vintage treasure is a tube amp made in the UK, kept in pristine condition thanks to careful preloved ownership. The moment I saw it, I had to buy it—at a fair price, no less. It features 3 input channels (2 for microphones and instruments, 1 for tape), 2 versatile speaker outputs, and a tactile black textured tolex that’s hard to resist. It recently had a bench checkup, needing only minimal component replacements.

The amp boasts an immense bass reserve, which can pose challenges for instruments requiring a broad range for full clarity. For instance, when playing Rhodes lines, I prefer my Dynacord Twen 2 (the renowned “German Fender Princeton”). For guitar, I tend to keep the bass dialed back. While the headroom is limited, this amp truly shines when you’re seeking that rich overdrive character.

???? About the Korg X911 Guitar Synthesizer:
The Korg X911 is a vintage analog synthesizer crafted for guitarists, featuring monophonic synthesis with real-time pitch-to-voltage conversion. Introduced in the late 1970s, it offers a variety of preset voices, including trumpet, tuba, bass, and synth tones, paired with adjustable filter and envelope controls. Its intuitive interface and CV/Gate compatibility make it a distinctive choice for producing both experimental and classic analog sounds, catering to guitarists and synth enthusiasts alike.

????️ About the EHX 8 Step Program:
The Electro-Harmonix 8 Step Program is a versatile analog expression sequencer designed to unlock creative potential in your gear. With 8 programmable steps, it allows for precise control of parameters such as pitch, filter, or modulation rate. Its features include adjustable glide, tempo, and depth, as well as tap tempo and MIDI sync compatibility for seamless integration into modern setups. Ideal for crafting rhythmic patterns or evolving textures, it’s a powerful tool for musicians seeking hands-on, dynamic expression control.

???? About the Celestion Speaker and Marshall Cabinet:
The speaker is a Celestion V-Type, 10 inches, rated at 20 watts, perfect for achieving easy, natural breakup. The cabinet, on the other hand, is actually an amp—the recently released Marshall SV20C, which is marketed as a modern adaptation of the iconic Marshall 1959SLP Super Lead Plexi.

????️ About the AKG Acoustics D70:
The AKG Acoustics D70 is a vintage dynamic microphone renowned for its durability and warm, natural sound. Designed for versatile applications, it performs exceptionally well with vocals, instruments, and live sound reinforcement. Its cardioid polar pattern ensures focused sound capture while minimizing background noise. With a rugged construction and timeless audio quality, the D70 remains a favorite among musicians and audio engineers seeking reliable performance and classic tone.

???? About the Aria Pro 2 “Mad Axe” Guitar:
HSS Stratocaster-like model. It has great tuning stability and sustain, but the stock pickups are weak. I replaced all of them, except for the neck pickup, which sounded fine and especially warm to me. The color seems a bit unusual for this series; I only found one other model with that shade of green (though some might say it’s blue—the debate will forever remain open).

???? Chapters:
00:00 Intro and setup
00:10 Dry jazz riff
00:23 Percussive bass
00:38 Laidback bass
00:59 Bass & brass
01:14 Portamento lead
01:29 Birds interlude
01:44 Clean filtered sequence
01:58 Distorted filtered sequence
02:12 MS20 filter & bass wah
02:32 MS20 filter wah

????️ About the audio transfer:
Yamaha MT-50 4-track cassette recorder with light EQ to compensate for potential loss
Scotch Superchrome XSII-S 60 (mid nineties, type 2 Chrome)
Behringer MIC500 USB (Brimar 12AU7 – ECC82)
Audacity & Adobe Premiere Pro 2024

???? Shot with a Sony Alpha 6400 under the benevolence of French blogger Aurélie Lemaire:
https://www.instagram.com/chez_le_loft/
https://3raisonspour.com/

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Originally posted by UC4UoD3E_oKij-fqbyn_8ucg at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mBrCLqAP3AQ