EntertainmentThe YouTube star has gone from reviewing synths to taking on the surveillance state.by Terrence O'BrienJun 6, 2026, 3:00 PM UTCEntertainmentThe YouTube star has gone from reviewing synths to taking on the surveillance state.by Terrence O'BrienJun 6, 2026, 3:00 PM UTCTerrence O'Brien is the Verge’s weekend editor. He has over 18 years of experience, including 10 years as managing editor at Engadget.Benn Jordan may have initially gained notoriety for his music as Flashbulb and later, reviewing synths and effects pedals on YouTube under Benn and Gear. But about five years ago, Benn decided to take his YouTube channel in a…