From Military Barracks to Underground Frequencies
Jeff Bornhoeft • 25 Years of Electronic Evolution • Genre-Fluid Producer • Secret Studio Operator
It began in Germany, 1999. While stationed overseas with the US Army, Jeff Bornhoeft discovered the power of electronic music production. In military barracks where most found routine, he found rhythm. What started as late-night experiments with primitive gear became an obsession that would define the next quarter-century. The discipline of military service merged with the chaos of creative expression—a combination that would prove unstoppable.
Returning to Arizona, Jeff connected with fellow sonic rebels and co-founded AZUnderground.org—a pirate internet radio station that became the heartbeat of the desert's electronic scene. Operating under the moniker 'Labelwhore,' he didn't just broadcast music; he built a movement. Underground raves in abandoned warehouses and desert gatherings under starlit skies evolved into legitimate venues—including a few unforgettable nights at a cowboy bar—but the spirit remained raw and uncompromising. The collective showcased local talent alongside international artists, proving that great electronic music knows no borders.
Somewhere in Colorado lies one of the state's most unique synthesizer-based studios. The location remains undisclosed, but the gear speaks volumes: a heavily modified Korg Polysix, multiple customized Yamaha CS synthesizers, and an ever-growing collection of rare electronic instruments—nearly all bearing Jeff's personal modifications. Each piece was chosen not for its price tag, but for its sonic potential, then transformed into something entirely unique through careful circuit work and creative rewiring.
Trance, electro, techno, breakbeats, hip hop, downtempo, jungle, drum & bass—labels are limitations. Jeff's philosophy is simple: create what sounds interesting, not what sounds familiar. While others chase trends, he chases frequencies that haven't been explored. Every track is an experiment, every session a journey into uncharted sonic territory. The goal isn't to fit into a scene—it's to expand what's possible.
What was basically junk when acquired has been transformed into possibly the most modified Polysix in existence. Brought back to life through careful repair, then enhanced with MIDI integration, stereo output, and the legendary Tubutec Polysex modification. Studio motto: 'MIDIfy everything'—and this beast exemplifies that philosophy perfectly.
Multiple units imported directly from Japan, including a broken CS-30 that required careful restoration. Each bearing Jeff's personal circuit modifications and MIDI integration—because 'MIDIfy everything' is the studio philosophy. These legendary synthesizers now span classic analog warmth to experimental territories, each with its own personality through dedicated repair and modification work.
What was basically junk when purchased has been brought back to life through careful repair work, then transformed through circuit modifications. Classic ensemble sounds now serve as modern sonic weapons, perfect for atmospheric textures and haunting leads.
What was basically junk when acquired has been restored to deliver those legendary hoover sounds that defined early rave culture. Through careful repair work, this iconic 80s synthesizer now flows effortlessly with the punchy bass lines that shaped underground dance music.
Bridging vintage Moog warmth with contemporary modular flexibility. This semi-modular beast provides both classic analog tones and experimental patching possibilities for sonic exploration.
What was basically junk when purchased has been carefully restored to deliver those classic house piano stabs and atmospheric pads that shaped electronic music. The legendary Detroit electro duo Drexciya used a Roland D-20 to craft their otherworldly aquatic soundscapes. After foolishly getting rid of a Roland D-110, Jeff had to have that distinctive Roland sound back in his studio—some tones are irreplaceable.
The synthesizer that defined the 80s. Its FM synthesis engine remains unmatched for metallic textures, bell-like tones, and evolving digital soundscapes that cut through any mix.
Hand-built modules designed and constructed by Jeff, pushing modular synthesis into uncharted sonic territories. Each module represents a unique approach to sound generation and processing.
An extensive collection of hacked toy sampling keyboards and synthesizers, transformed from children's playthings into unpredictable chaos generators. Every single one has been circuit-bent AND equipped with MIDI—because 'MIDIfy everything' means EVERYTHING. These produce glitchy, lo-fi textures no professional gear can replicate, now fully integrated into modern production workflows.
Dozens more rare and modified synthesizers remain catalogued only in Jeff's private studio notes. Some secrets are worth keeping, some sounds are earned through years of dedication to the craft.
Music production is just the beginning. Jeff designs custom Eurorack modules, pushing the boundaries of what modular synthesis can achieve. But here's the truth: he cannot leave well enough alone. Almost every synthesizer that enters the studio gets modified—it's an obsession. He NEEDS to know what makes them sing! That's the real reason behind the extensive collection. All of this—the music production, the electronics knowledge, the circuit design, the repair work—completely self-taught, learned through pure obsession and love of synthesizers. He creates sample libraries that inspire rather than imitate, crafting sounds that defy categorization. Every aspect feeds into the larger vision: building a reputation through authentic innovation, not industry politics.
TH3RDWAVE isn't just a platform—it's Jeff's statement to the world. After 25 years of perfecting the craft in relative obscurity, it's time to emerge from the shadows. This is where underground meets innovation, where rare synthesizers meet cutting-edge sample technology, where a quarter-century of experience meets an uncompromising vision for electronic music's future.