Since starting on classical guitar around 2000, Diego has become a multi-instrumentalist at heart, but specializes in keyboards and electronic instruments. A sometimes member of various At the Drive-in-adjacent El Paso-based bands, Diego fell out with the scene/sound and does his own things now. He’s worked as a staff writer for the zZounds Blog and a product specialist at zZounds for well over 10 years. If you ask Diego’s significant other, his true talent is cooking.
Novation MiniNova Synthesizer: A Legacy of Innovation
Dubstep. I keep staring at those words, sandwiched prominently between “R&B/Hip-Hop” and “Techno/House” on Novation’s MiniNova, and I keep thinking: “What were they thinking?” You see, that Novation MiniNova synthesizer, released in 2012, and bought by yours truly not too many years later, remains a compelling, if not slightly confounding, synth. From above, the MiniNova’s […]
Cross the Vocal Spectrum on Moog’s Spectravox Synth
Moog’s Spectravox is an exciting analog spectral processor and vocoder that transforms sound with an advanced 10-band filter bank. This cutting-edge instrument delivers vibrant drones, dynamic tonal sweeps, and unique modulation possibilities, opening up new worlds of sonic creativity. Discover the full potential of the Spectravox as we delve deeper into its features and capabilities […]
Starry-Eyed Surprise: Arturia MiniFreak Stellar Synth Video Demo
Space out with Arturia’s MiniFreak Stellar, a blacked-out special edition of their original powerful polyphonic synth. Featuring dual digital sound engines, analog filters, advanced modulation, sequencing, and stereo effects, this synth takes your sound into deep space and beyond. Join us in our exclusive video as we explore the MiniFreak Stellar’s unique features and cosmic […]
Roland JD-08 Boutique Synthesizer: A Link to Roland’s Past
I’ll be the first to admit, my first impression of Roland’s JD-08 was one of surprise. I thought: How would Roland fit all of its original inspiration into something smaller than your computer’s keyboard? That question drove me to give it a chance — I’d revive my niche of “The Oscillator” and share some thoughts […]
Video: zZounds Beams Up Roland’s GAIA 2 Synth
Roland’s GAIA 2 synthesizer is a beacon of sonic innovation. Watch our exclusive video for a celestial journey through its hybrid wavetable and virtual-analog engine. Its intuitive interface and full-size keys provide a seamless experience for limitless sound design; with features like the sequencer and Motional Pad, explore rhythmic landscapes and sculpt dynamic sonic panoramas […]
Track The Evolution: Teenage Engineering OP-1 Field Demo
Step into the world of Teenage Engineering with the OP-1 Field Synthesizer. The OP-1 Field pairs refined design with advanced technology, compacting tons of sound engines, sequencing power, and special T.E. flair into one mobile instrument. Explore just what else one can do with Teenage Engineering in our exclusive video demo!
zZounds Live: Rev Your Engines with zZounds: Pioneer DJ DDJ-REV7
Watch us leave no stone unturned as we look closer at Pioneer DJ’s DDJ-REV7 DJ controller in our exclusive live demo with DJ JAM ONE. Discover the DDJ-REV7’s motorized vinylized jog wheels, its advanced On Jog Display, instant scratch capabilities, top-notch audio quality, and a whole array of creative Beat FX. Join us as we […]
Take the Bridge to the Future of Sound: Pittsburgh Modular Taiga Demo
Unleash a boundless realm of sonic possibilities with the extraordinary Pittsburgh Modular Taiga! This paraphonic analog synthesizer exudes vintage musicality while boasting a cutting-edge set of modern features. Brace yourself for an electrifying experience as you delve into our exclusive demo video, showcasing the sonic world of Taiga!
zZounds Live: Powering-up with Arturia KeyLab + Analog Lab Software
Arturia KeyLab Essential keyboards are versatile, high-quality MIDI controllers that spark creativity and simplify music-making. Pair Arturia keyboards with included Analog Lab software, a suite of virtual plug-in instruments that recreate iconic musical hardware, and you’ve got yourself a powerful way to orient your creative direction. Watch Justin conjure up all sorts of sound magic from […]
