Hi @zynthianers!
I just uploaded the first Vangelis test image:
https://os.zynthian.org/2026-06-18-zynthianos-vangelis-2606-test.img.xz
Please, note It’s not a beta yet, so don’t expect you can upgrade from this image to the stable Vangelis, when released. You probably would need to download again.
UPDATE (2026-07-30): The first Vangelis BETA image is out.. You SHOULD download and install. You old bookworm based Vangelis image is not longer supported. See comments bellow.
https://os.zynthian.org/2026-07-30-zynthianos-vangelis-2607-beta.img.xz
Anyway, from the functionality point of view, it’s not far from the final release. We are not going to add many new features, although some polishing is needed yet.
If you love zynthian and still didn’t have a taste of Vangelis, this image is for you. But please, remember it’s not production ready yet. And i’m not saying you can’t use it for production (don’t do it!!). Indeed you should (you shouldn’t!!). But don’t complain if it fails (do it, please!). You have been warned (or not?) 
What is new in this image? Woaoo … if you compare to Oram, the difference is huge:
- The new Launcher view replaces the Zynpad. Launcher columns match the chains, that can be sequences (for synth & MIDI chains) or audio clips (clippy is the new sample engine). Rows are called “phrases” and they are similar to Ableton “scenes”. Phrase start/stop can be automated in several ways, so now you can create full songs with the launcher. The launcher replaces partially the “Arranger”, that has been temporary removed.
- Clippy, the new sampler engine that fully integrates the long awaited modern sampler functionality. Autowarp (time stretching), beat slice, easy crop, etc. You can sequence audio loops and one-shots from the launcher, having a common workflow for sequencing MIDI patterns and samples.
- Lot of improvements in the Pattern Editor, like the CC editor (parameter automation), improved stutter and repeat options, block operations (copy/cut/paste & multi-edit), etc.
- New chain manager & chain-config views, that greatly improve and simplify chain configuraion and operation.
- 2-columns view for engine selector. I hope this clarify engine navigation (categories!).
- More visual “grid menus” have been deployed when convenient. We probably will have more of these in the future
- Zynthian Packages: Soundfonts and other heavy assets have been moved to “packages” that you can install/uninstall from webconf. The “factory” soundfont library is now a package that can be desinstalled/installed. The new official high quality Piano soundfont is the “Zynthian Accurate Grand”, derived from the full “Accurate Salamander Grand” by our beloved @jlearman.
- The Vaporizer2 synth engine is amazing and now it’s installed and enabled by default, including all factory presets and wavetables. Yessss! You will love it!!
- Support for new NAM A2 models using the updated NAM engine.
- A MIDI pattern library has been added, including chord progressions and drum patterns. More MIDI patterns are available as collection packages.
- “Deconvolve” option for recorded 4-tracks IR sweeps, what allows fast IR capture with your zynthian.
- On-screen help has been improved, and it’s being actively improved yet. The goal is moving most of user-guide to the on-screen help system.
- Coherent “Bypass” control for all audio FXs. Now it’s a processor option too.
- Mixer improvements: Chain mixer processors, mixbuses, configurable top switch action (by default is not “solo” anymorem but “record”),etc.
- TTS system for sight impaired users is fully available. Connect an USB audio interface and long-push F4/P4/S4 to enable narration.
- Multiple ctrldev drivers per device ( i can’t remember if this is available in Oram too)
- Many many fixes and improvements everywhere.
I will compile a more exhaustive list when the stable Vangelis image is released.
The next stop is moving to trixie, the hardest part of the remaining way. I’m on it!
Enjoy!
V4 to switch from Oram…