Arturia MicroBrute Analog Synthesizer
The Arturia MicroBrute has a two octave mini-size keyboard and a footprint that is about half the size of the MiniBrute. Nevertheless it is still playable enough to do the job. The MicroBrute pumps out some of the most beastly sounds you’ll ever hear. It gets a lot better once you peruse the control panel, which is filled with high quality knobs, sliders and switches that are big and firm enough to redress the quality balance.
This is an analog monosynth so that means it can only play one note at a time, and that means no chords. However, there is a control to add a “fifth” note or a duplicate note one octave down. Everything on the front panel is directly connected to the circuits that make the sound, so every control is live. While it has the classic look of a Roland SH-101, MicroBrute is keen to assert its own character and style and it is a synth that begs to be pushed beyond the normal limits. Such as in the filter section there is a control called Brute Factor. This adds a kind of low frequency feedback loop into the signal which has the effect of overloading the sound with a deep, growling rumble.
On the MiniBrute the Pulse Width and Metalizer amount have independent envelope modulation parameters as well as their own depth controls in the LFO section. However, the MicroBrute does add the very neat Mod Matrix panel, which allows you to patch the envelope and LFO depth to different locations using the 3.5mm mini-jacks.
Another fabulous feature is the flexible sequencer section. It is very basic but that also makes it easy to use. Crank the dial to select one of the eight memory slots, switch into Record mode, and then tap out the notes your sequence on the keyboard, using the Rest button to insert steps without a note. Flick it into Play mode, hold down a key and your sequence will be played back at whatever tempo you have selected. You can get more from the sequencer, such as triggering the sequence with different keys and jumping up and down the octaves.
The Arturia MicroBrute has many connectivity options. 100% analog signal path. A fine-sounding and flexible synth in a small, but highly useable package. The Arturia MicroBrute is the perfect introduction for anyone who has never tweaked a real hardware synth.
The immediacy of a hardware synthesizer combined with the flexibility of a software based solution. The Arturia – Analog Experience The Player is a compact MIDI keyboard controller. The Player comes in an aluminium and wooden case designed specifically for durability and cost saving. The compact, lightweight and rugged designed make the portable controller an ideal instrument for contemporary and mobile musicians. The Analog Experience – The Player features 25-key velocity-sensitive keyboard with full action effect, a cross-platform virtual instruments – stand-alone and VST/AU/RTAS plug-in, with 1,000 built-in synths sounds selected from Arturia Classic Synths line of virtual instruments, like ARP 2600V, CS-80V, Jupiter-8V, Minimoog V, Modular Moog V, Prophet V, and Prophet VS.
Analog Experience – The Player is a powerful and user-friendly instrument. Featuring the very best of Arturia’s signature sounds created using TAE ® sound engine, the sounds are filtered by instrument, type, style and characteristics. Besides, the controller is compatible with any MIDI hardware and software. With 1,000 presets sounds selecting the sounds you want is also a breeze. And user can also filter and organize presets view with ease. User can search sounds according to individual’s criteria by filtering base on instrument, type of sound , style or characteristics, and alternatively, find presets according to these filtered choices. Additionally, user can organize presets view by Name, Instrument, Type, Polyphony, CPU usage, Favourite or User Presets. The modulation joystick is easy to operate though most user would prefer wheels but, to save space and cost perhaps, it is the best alternative.
The Player is the best way to get these signature sounds at a budget. In fact, The Player makes the analog experience more available to the masses. In my opinion, an incredibly affordable package with a wealth of Arturia’s best analog sounds and the ease of accessing all the presets are the biggest immediate sell for this simple, small and lightweight portable keyboard.
