New modular manufacturer SynTesla has been getting a lot of buzz recently with their social media posts, sharing previews of their module designs, and with the news that the company had built the world’s largest modular synth for Hans Zimmer. But to date, their modules were not available to the general public.
Now SynTesla has announced that their online store is now live on their site.
The initial SynTesla offerings include:
Complete modular systems, like the 5U MegaHertz two-voice modular synthesizer, and
Recently, Sonic State recently shared this video from Audio Developer Conference Bristol, which offers a sneak preview of the Void9 MÕNAI, a new portable hardware workstation prototype.
The MÕNAI is a standalone, portable multitimbral synthesizer. An integrated battery eliminates the need for power outlets, while it’s compact enough to fit in a backpack.
The developer says that the “MÕNAI delivers comprehensive synthesis capabilities without compromise.”
The synthesizer features four sound engines, including virtual analog and FM synthesis. The system is four-part multi-timbral, and offers sequencers, effects and other performance controls.
Some may draw parallels between this and the Teenage Engineering OP-1 Field or the Yamaha SEQTRAK, because of the compact form-factor. The MÕNAI brings something new to the table, though, by offering a software development kit (SDK), so its a platform that could be open to third-party software.
Features:
CNC-machined aluminum enclosure
109 LEDs provide visual feedback
Open SDK
8 endless encoders provide tactile feedback
Touch-sensitive strips
2-axis joystick adds another dimension of real-time control.
USB Host port accepts MIDI controllers, expanding your playing surface.
Standard MIDI I/O connects to legacy gear.
Four CV outputs – pitch, modulation, velocity, and gate – bridge the gap to modular systems.
Line-level audio input lets you process external sources through MÕNAI’s effects.
Specifications:
52 keys
29 piano keyboard layout keys (2 octaves and 1/3)
23 function keys
8 endless potentiometers
2 touch-sensitive strips
Modulation (left, 8cm)
Multi-function (right, 20cm)
2-axis joystick for expression parameter control
6-axis motion sensor
Volume control knob with audio level indicator strip (stereo)
High-resolution 3.1″ LCD screen
Total of 109 LEDs: 88 RGB and 21 single-color LEDs
2 microphones for audio recording
1 USB port for battery charging and computer connection
1 USB Host port for device connection (e.g., MIDI keyboard)
Line-level audio input
2 x audio outputs
5mm TRS MIDI input and output
Pedal input
Sync out / in
CV outputs
CV Pitch
CV Modulation
CV Velocity
CV Gate
Dimensions: 36.5 x 12.3 x 18.7 cm
Pricing and availability details are to be announced, and the instrument Void9 was showing is a prototype. Void9 is targeting Summer 2026 for a beta release for the MÕNAI.
