11. May 2025

JET

StarskyCarr Dives into Frap Tools’ Magnolia – A Modular Madness Unleashed

In true StarskyCarr fashion, he takes us on a wild ride through the sonic landscape of the Frap Tools Magnolia. It’s a synth that feels like a mosh pit and dances with the chaos of through-zero FM and wavefolding. Let’s see what this modular beast can do!

Giovanni's Intro to Chaos

Kicking off the video, Giovanni from Frap Tools greets us at Superbooth 2025. He wastes no time introducing the Magnolia, a synth that doesn’t just dip its toes in the waters of chaos, but cannonballs in with exuberance. Describing it as an 8-voice analog through-zero FM synthesizer, Giovanni sets the stage for a deep dive into sound madness. This European beauty draws inspiration from the West Coast style of modular synthesis. It’s like someone dreamt up a hybrid of lush pads, classic FM pianos, and talking filters and poured them all into one synth. A proper geezer, this one.


The Eurorack Legacy

StarskyCarr is in his element, navigating the intricacies of the Magnolia as Giovanni explains the synth’s roots in the Eurorack world. Each voice sports two oscillators and dual filters, promising a playground of sonic potential. The heart of the synth is the through-zero FM circuit, sure to excite anyone who loves pushing the boundaries of sound. Wavefolding and modulation are the flavours of the day, allowing sounds to go from serene elegance to absolute mayhem with just a twist. With a wave folder derived from their complex Brainsaw oscillator, the Magnolia stands ready to unleash a cacophony or a symphony, depending on your mood. How very StarskyCarr to spotlight these gritty details and lay bare the powerhouse lurking within.

"The coolest feature is of course a Through Zero FM circuit and it really shines through when modulated."

Control and Expression

"And we also kind of work through those ways to add some expressiveness."

Giovanni elaborates on the myriad ways you can wield the Magnolia’s power. From using polyphonic aftertouch to control the wavefolder, to harnessing envelopes and LFOs for modulating almost every parameter under the sun. Velocity modulation adds yet another layer, making it a synth that fights back when you push it, like a dodgy kebab after a heavy night out. StarskyCarr relishes these expressive controls, appreciating how they turn each session into a visceral, dynamic experience. It’s not just a machine – it’s a living, breathing entity responding to your every whim.

Timbre and Morphing Magic

StarskyCarr shines a light on Magnolia’s split identity. Giovanni demonstrates how the synth can morph timbres effortlessly, moving from delicate to aggressive with a seasoned flair. With the ability to blend sounds from both oscillators, users can conjure lush pads or gritty basses on a whim. Yet it’s the morphing capability that steals the show, allowing seamless transitions from one soundscape to another. The synth offers options to switch between monophonic, legato, and unison modes, providing a versatile toolkit for any composer. It’s this adaptability and range that Starsky appreciates, akin to a band that can both scream and sing depending on the crowd’s vibe.

"The final product is supposed to have full morphing compatibility from sound A to sound B."

The Arpeggiator Adventure

The finale showcases Giovanni turning on the arpeggiator, transforming the Magnolia into a powerhouse of randomness. With a sprinkle of octave spreading and a tweak of the filter, the arpeggiator spirals into a heady rhythm that’s sure to electrify any gig. It’s this pulsating energy that StarskyCarr finds invigorating, especially with the ability to layer voices and adjust their interactions. Like being at a punk gig where the band decides to throw in some curveballs, the Magnolia keeps you guessing in the best possible way. It’s this unpredictability that makes it a coveted piece of kit for those unafraid to embrace the unexpected.


A Glimpse of What’s to Come

Concluding the showcase, Giovanni teases us with what lies ahead for the Magnolia. Still in its pre-production phase, it promises to be an intriguing addition to the synth community. StarskyCarr can hardly wait to get his hands on one for a full demo, hinting at the dusty corners this synth could illuminate. The Magnolia stands poised to become a new favourite for those willing to grab the bull by the horns and ride the wave of innovation.


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