Erica Synths Syntrx II Not Just For Crazy Sci-Fi Sound Effects
Synthesist Starsky Carr – in his latest video – shares his take on the Erica Synths Syntrx II , the second generation of the three-voice synth that offers an original, modern take on the EMS VCS 3 concept.
“I want to bust two big myths,” notes Carr. “It’s not as complicated as it looks, and it’s not just a crazy sci-fi sound effects machine.”
If you like crazy sci-fi sound effects, though, the Syntrx II has you covered.
Watch the video and share your thoughts on the Erica Synths Syntrx II in the comments!
Topics covered:
Syntrx II vs the original EMS VCS3 / EMS Synthi — key similarities and differences
Syntrx II vs Syntrx I — what changed and why
The 16×16 digital pin matrix explained
Using the Syntrx II as a standard 3-oscillator monosynth
The trapezoid (looping) envelope in practice
All-analog signal path walkthrough
Onboard 3-channel sequencer, DSP reverb and delay, envelope follower
FM, self-oscillation, noise modulation, and filter techniques
Sample & hold circuit — how to set it up
The joystick as an LFO / recording modulation source
MIDI setup tips (offset fix, CC assignments for X and Y axes)
Patch saving — what it DOES and DOESN’T save, and why it matters
Pros and cons
