Analogue Solutions has introduced Maximus, a new “mega-polysynth” with a design ethos that creator Tom Carpenter says is “truly from the dawn of analog synths.”
Maximus will make its official debut at Synthfest UK 2023, scheduled for Oct 7th, 2023 in Sheffield, England.
In the meantime, here’s what Carpenter has shared about Maximus:
“Although we label this as a polysynth – it is so much more. We can’t think of a label to give this synth since it is so much more than that.
When you think of polysynth you think of flat synths with one set of controls that control all voices equally. By giving Maximus independent controls for every voice, you have more freedom to create unique styles of poly sounds impossible on traditional polysynths, whether they are hardware or software. You can dial up ‘traditional’ poly sounds (pads etc) or have something unimaginable different.
Because you can never dial up each voice completely identically, standard polys pads will sounds superbly vintage.
All the voice and modulation circuits are of course 100% analog. We purposely steered away from digital, aside from of course the digital needed in MIDI and the mini-sequencers.
This synth is purely for those who want it just as it was in the 1970s – but new with parts still in production. For those who want a synth that could have been built in the 70s.
There are no gimmicks – this is pure synthesiser. A huge sound enclosed in a solid metal case wrapped in solid hardwood. No expense has been spared to bring this incredible machine to life.”
Specifications:
Voice – x8
2 VCO
1 Mixer
3 12dB filters
2 Full ADSR envelopes
1 16 step note/modulation loop sequencer
1 BBD style retro echo
1 Main out VCA
1 White Noise
1 Sub Osc
1 Portamento / Glide
1 VCO tune Vernier dial
Generous selection of cross modulation controls.
Master
1 VC LFO
1 LFO with delay
1 LFO
8 channel stereo mixer
2 Real spring reverbs
1 Master control knobs
1 Poly MIDI to CV converter
4 Key modes
2 MIDI Sync modes
1 Multiple
Generous modulation routing
Misc
Metal cabinet
Birch ply real wood
Healthy set of jack sockets for patching on all panels
Optional AS400 keyboard
61 full length keys
Weighted
Velocity
Aftertouch with VCA for modulation
64 pad touch controller (can be split to 2×32)
Maximus is available to order now, with the following pricing:
AS300 main unit £22500 £19900 Launch price – batch 1 only
Today, iConnectivity has introduced the PlayAUDIO1U, a rackmount Audio and MIDI interface that they say is “deeply-thought-out, bulletproof, fail-proof, and made-to-tour”.
The PlayAUDIO1U offers tons of connectivity, with USB, DIN and Ethernet MIDI support; dual USB C ports for connecting devices; footpedal support; 12 XLR outputs; flexible audio and MIDI routing and more.
It also offers features tailored to live performance, like the ability to instantly switch between two computer playback sources.
Features:
2x USB C type ports for connecting computing devices
Automatic and manual computer switching modes, for lightning-fast switching between connected computers
2x 2 button “Control” footswitch selectable input/outputs can be mapped to MIDI functions, control over numerous functions on the interface and/or sending control messages to compatible devices
Audio Protection helps stop unwanted noise from corrupt audio sources/files from making it into the audience
Auracle software enables you to tailor the PlayAUDIO1U’s settings to your exact needs
High-resolution audio – Studio sound quality for the live arena – up to 24-bit/96kHz AD/DA conversion
“MIDI learn” from external MIDI devices to control key functions on the interface
OLED screen for instantaneous status information and precise control
1U ready-to-tour rack-mountable chassis
12 Balanced panel reinforced XLR outputs
Integrated +48v phantom power protection on outputs protects your interface from accidental damage when plugging directly into consoles or stage boxes
1x 1/4” TRS stereo headphone output with dedicated control for convenient headphone monitoring
USB MIDI host port, offering up to 8 ports worth of USB MIDI for Class Compliant controllers and/or modules
DIN-MIDI port built-in (1 in 1 out)
Ethernet MIDI with 22 ports of connectivity for rugged long-distance MIDI connections
Comprehensive audio mixing and routing between connected USB computing devices and analog outputs
Easy-to-use capacitive touch control and 2 rotary encoders provide software-less control over PlayAUDIO1U’s key features from the front panel
100-220v switching power built-in with Industry-Standard IEC Power Connection
The PlayAUDIO1U is available now, with an MSRP of $1399.99 and an $1199 estimated street price.
The Dreadbox Hypnosis features Chorus/Flanger, delay and spring reverb effects, along with LFOs for modulation. It can be used as a standalone module or integrated into your Eurorack modular system.
Hypnosis is available as an assemble-yourself type kit, as shown below:
Features:
Analog Effects Processor with 3 effects
All Analog warm BBD Chorus – Flanger circuit
Hybrid Delay based on the Erebus synthesizer onboard effect
Real Spring Reverb with unique variable time pre Delay
2 x wide range LFOs
1 hardwired for the chorus and 1 free for patching
Wide input range – It accepts from guitar/mic levels up to modular gear
