Endorphin.es x Loopop PLUS 3 is a new compact hardware unit that brings expression and sustain pedal functionality for synths to the desktop.
The easiest and most classic way to add expression to keyboard synths is to connect an expression and sustain pedal. Pedals are less convenient if you prefer working with desktop synths or Eurorack synths because they are often large and require long cables to the floor.
Synth YouTuber Loopop and Endorphin.es from Spain have joined forces and worked on a small practical solution. It’s called PLUS 3 and brings expression functionality to your synths via a compact, affordable pedal.
Endorphin.es Loopop PLUS 3
PLUS 3, the first product collaboration between Endorphin.es and Loopop is a new pedal that brings expression and sustain functionality and more to your desktop, using your fingers instead of your feet.
The passive-powered unit features a high-quality fader for expressive performance and automation, a momentary red sustain key, and a new “drone mode” toggle switch. The latter lets you free your hands and hold notes indefinitely. Using the red button in drone mode, you can swap droned notes with new ones.
On the back of the unit, it has expression and sustain sockets with an RTS/TRS switch for various expression jack configurations. Plus, there is an internal “hidden” jumper that lets you use its sustain side as an expression toggle.
According to Endorphin.es and Loopop, the PLUS 3 case is made of aluminum, making it sturdy, light, and portable. Its sustain key is based on standard mechanical keyboard-style keys, so you can customize it and swap the key out to make the pedal your own with your key of choice.
PLUS 3 ships with three cables: a 1 meter TRS cable for the expression side, a 1 meter TS cable for the sustain side, and a TRS breakout cable for connecting PLUS 3 to semi-modular and eurorack gear.
This breakout cable lets you use PLUS 3’s expression side as an attenuator and its sustain side as a gate control for CV.
Areas Of Application
PLUS 3 is versatile and makes many things possible. It also opens up areas you might never have thought of as a desktop synth user. For example, the red momentary sustain adds physical sustain control or a dedicated drone/hold/arp latch switch to synths.
Endorphin.es says: “It’s important to note that even if an instrument has a hold button, its sustain jack may unlock additional functionality or behavior.” You can also use the red button as a momentary and toggle control of any parameter mappable in your DAW.
Just as versatile is the expression socket and playable with the fader. You can give expressive fader control to MIDI controllers that don’t already have faders. For example Instruments Kontrol S MK3 which has an expression pedal input.
Further, the Endorphin.es Loopop PLUS 3 fader can be used with any parameter mappable in your DAW or hardware with a mod matrix. The latter configuration enables patch morphing capabilities and more.
First Impression
Endorphin.es and Loopop have developed a very simple product that brings a lot of expressivity in hardware and software. The drone mode is particularly intriguing as it’s very playful. Plus, you can use it on any synth without using a classic hold function. Great release, and congrats Loopop for your first product.
Endorphin.es x Loopop PLUS 3 is available now for 79€.
More information here: Endorphin.es
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