Void9 MÕNAI Portable Music Workstation (Sneak Preview)
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.
