Synthesizer
Fourth Batch of Schmidt Eightvoice Analog Synthesizer Shipping
Schmidt – an Analog Eight-Voice Polyphonic Synthesizer
Schmidt is a thoroughbred analog eight-voice polyphonic synthesizer with unison and true multitimbrality mode.
Its previous built-to-order batches have been between 25 and 27 instruments each, the first of which followed from an interest in namesake hardware and software designer Stefan Schmidt’s hand-crafted prototype unit’s show-stopping debut at Musikmesse 2011 in Frankfurt, Germany, Schmidt-Synthesizer is proud to announce that it has started shipping an eagerly-anticipated fourth batch of its no-expense-spared Schmidt Eightvoice Analog Synthesizer — available in classic anthracite- or cool white-colored configurations with visually improved hardware operation, courtesy of cosmetic color changes to several key knobs, and feature-enhancing firmware, currently at version 3.6.
- eight-voice polyphonic, true analog synthesizer with digital control and preset memories
- discrete sound generation circuitry (no integrated oscillator/filter circuits on one single chip)
- You want Schmidt to sound like an entire orchestra? Have a go at Schmidt’s eight-part multimode. Simply select the desired preset sound, voice allocation, keyboard mapping, MIDI channel, controller-assignment, tuning, volume, panning, and output routing for each multimode part in an easy-to-survey LCD screen. Enjoy sounds as complex and dynamic as you never would have expected from one single instrument.
- separate audio outputs for each voice, plus summing outputs and headphone out
- 1,028 single sound presets
- 256 multi-sound presets
- 61 keys, semi-weighted, with velocity and aftertouch
- sophisticated glide/portamento capabilities
- several realtime modifiers fully programmable per preset (modwheel, stick controller, keyboard-aftertouch, four-foot switches, four expression pedals)
- complete MIDI implementation, MIDI via USB port and DIN sockets
- all sound programming functions with dedicated front-panel controls and switches
- precise information on parameter names and current values via large LC-display
- multi-color LEDs
- control panel with adjustable angle
- internal universal power supply
- flightcase included
Starting shipment of the fourth (25-unit) batch of the still-sought-after Schmidt Eightvoice Analog Synthesizer has taken time with time spent waiting while production partner e:m:c (electronic music components) successfully solved procurement problems relating to hard-to-source components. “Now nothing stands in the way of further construction of these unique instruments,” says Schmidt- Synthesizer Product Manager Axel Fischer.
“From a hardware perspective, the new Schmidt Eightvoice Analog Synthesizer is identical to the previous batches, save for the fact that 11 knobs have been changed to a grey colour, making for a more clearly arranged operational layout,” Axel Fischer finally notes — not before highlighting some welcomed additions: “It includes the current firmware, which adds an easy-to-use onboard polyphonic step sequencer capable of recording 40 steps with each step made up of up to six notes — designed to be used as a live performance tool, and an arpeggiator.”
Sound Generation SIGNALWEG
- Four different oscillators with countless complementary features and outstanding modulation routings (square, sawtooth, noise, PWM, sync, ring modulation, multiple PWM, and multiple ring modulation). Even on the oscillator level, Schmidt offers amazing sonic capabilities not to be found with any other polyphonic hardware synthesizer
- Two parallel signal paths, each with complex filter sections (24dB Moog-style ladder filter, two 12dB multimode filters), provide two different variations of a sound simultaneously – within every single sound!
- Level and panning modulation provides dynamic mixing, crossfading, and stereo panning of both sound variations
- Additional third VCF for even more of that lovely filter squelch
- A wide variety of modulation sources (LFOs, envelopes, ramp generators, velocity, etc.) for oscillators, filters, and VCAs. Each section features dedicated LFOs and/or envelopes. No modulation matrix required – and still as flexible as a fully-fledged modular system!
Apart from that, the beautifully-built Schmidt Eightvoice Analog Synthesizer’s specifications as an eight-voice polyphonic, true analogue dream machine with digital control and preset memories — 1,028 single sounds and 256 multi-sounds are available at any given time — are as they were before. But bearing in mind that it includes almost everything subtractive synthesis is capable of, including some truly unique features — for example, creating colder, wavetable-like sounds thanks to its chain of five ring modulators fed by six pulse-waves, each with different pulse-widths — that have never before been implemented in an analogue synthesizer let alone an analogue programmable polysynth, those impressive specifications are well worth revisiting, as highlighted here: discrete sound generation circuitry — no integrated oscillator/filter circuits on a single chip; dual and true multitimbral modes; separate audio outputs per voice, plus summing outputs and headphone output; 61 keys, semi-weighted with velocity and aftertouch; sophisticated glide/portamento capabilities; several realtime modifiers, fully programmable per preset; comprehensive MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) implementation with USB (Universal Serial Bus) port and DIN (Deutsches Institut für Normung) connectivity; adjustable-angle capacious control panel with dedicated knobs and buttons for all sound programming functions; precise information on parameter names and current values via a large LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) with changeable colour background; multi-colour LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes); internal power supply; and, last but not least — though there is clearly so much more besides, an included flight case.
As a case in point, the fourth batch of the no-expense-spared Schmidt Eightvoice Analog Synthesizer surely epitomises the age-old adage: anything worth having is worth waiting for. Indeed, it has been well worth the wait. With e:m:c recently receiving a sizeable order from the only store it supplies, anyone interested in owning a premier league instrument that will be hand crafted in Germany to meet the highest possible production standards with a metal and wood — carefully selected with a close eye on environmental sustainability — casing that is as beautiful as it is sturdy should seriously consider placing an order directly with Schmidt-Synthesizer’s production partner. After all, the Schmidt Eightvoice Analog Synthesizer is truly a subtractive synthesis world unto itself!
About Schmidt-Synthesizer
Back in the techno music-driven Nineties, German company MAM’s MB-33 Analog Retro Bass Synthesizer — an authentic-sounding clone of Roland’s reverential TB-303 Bassline that was commanding crazy money on the second-hand market at the time — represented Stefan Schmidt’s first foray into serious (and successful) electronic musical instrument design. Its planned successor — a clone of the majestic Moog Taurus bass synthesizer, much loved by the likes of Canadian prog-rockers Rush — remains at a prototype stage only. Instead, its instigator took a radical detour, spending some serious time thinking about and developing what would become his namesake dream machine, the no-expense-spared Schmidt Eightvoice Analog Synthesizer — surely one of the most ambitious analogue synthesizer projects ever undertaken. After a show-stopping showcase at The NAMM Show 2013, Stefan Schmidt’s hand-crafted first prototype unit was promptly purchased by a suitably captivated customer directly from the show floor… the rest, as they say, is history. Here today, but not gone tomorrow, Schmidt-Synthesizer sees Stefan Schmidt continuing to turn his dream machine into reality with a dream team triumvirate: Achim Jerominek (production), Axel Fischer (product management), and e:m:c (electronic music components) President Stefan Hund (manufacturing).
Pricing and Availability
Schmidt-Synthesizer and production partner e:m:c (electronic music components) have had to increase pricing for the fourth batch of the no-expense-spared Schmidt Eightvoice Analog Synthesizer by approximately 10%. Within the EU (European Union) it is €21,900.00 EUR (including VAT) for one in classic anthracite, while white weighs in at €22,900.00 EUR (including VAT), with shipping costs not included. Outside of the EU it is €18,500.00 EUR (excluding VAT) for one in classic anthracite, while white weighs in at €19,300.00 EUR (excluding VAT), with customs and shipping costs not included. Interested parties should contact e:m:c here.
Expert Guides
Pocket Miku: A Unique Vocal Synthesizer from Japan
One of the unique things about the Pocket Miku project is that it is a vocal synthesizer that is inspired by Vocaloid Hatsune Miku (初音ミク) , and yet it is not a Vocaloid in its own right. It uses existing vocal synthesizer technology from Vocaloid 2/3/4, but then repurposes it and adds features to make it a unique vocal synthesizer in its own right.
Gakken’s “Pocket Miku”
In a ribbon synthesizer, make music, write music, and sing with the world’s most famous virtual vocaloid pop star. A stylus for playing and a 3.5mm/0.125″ output are included with this 16-key NSX-39 keyboard. Five distinct sounds are available: A – E – I – O – U, with vibrato, octave control, and volume and vowel control.
About Gakken
Gakken was established in 1946 as a Japanese publishing house. They started selling instructional toys, books, periodicals, and electrical kits in the 1970s. In Japan and the United States, their uniforms are noted for their innovative design, ease of use, and large cult following.
Vocal Synthesizer
A vocal synthesizer is a device that can generate artificial or computer-generated speech. It is usually used to create singing or other sounds that are impossible to produce with the human voice. Vocal synthesizers can be used to create sounds that are similar to the human voice, or they can create entirely new and unique sounds.
Vocal synthesizers are pieces of audio equipment specifically made to produce sounds similar to a human voice. They can be used to create sounds that are similar to a real-life voice, or they can be used to create unique sounds. These extraordinary sounds can include anything from animal noises to electronic beats. With the recent development of software and technology, vocal synthesizers have become easier to use, allowing any person to create his or her unique sounds.
How Musicians can use a Vocal Synthesizer
A vocal synthesizer can be a powerful tool for musicians, allowing them to create and manipulate sounds that would otherwise be impossible to produce. Using various techniques, musicians can use a vocal synthesizer to develop new and unique sounds or imitate other instruments’ sounds. Vocal synthesis can create eclectic sounds, from simple melodies to complex textures.
By varying the pitch, timbre, and envelope of the sound, musicians can create infinite possibilities. By experimenting with different settings, musicians can find the perfect sound for their music. A vocal synthesizer can also be used to imitate the sounds of other instruments. By matching the pitch and timbre of the sound, musicians can create a realistic imitation of another instrument.
This can be useful for creating new textures and layers in a composition. Vocal synthesis can be a powerful and versatile tool for musicians. By experimenting with different settings, musicians can make various sounds, from simple melodies to complex textures. By matching the pitch and timbre of the sound, musicians can also create realistic imitations of other instruments.
Microcosm
Microcosm is an incredibly versatile machine that can create striking ambient effects to tight, tap-tempo synchronized rhythms. By utilizing granular sampling, delay, and looping techniques, Microcosm can take your sound and completely transform it into something new and exciting. This machine can do everything if you want to create cascading micro-loops, diffused drones, or hypnotic textures. David uses the Microcosm in his video below.
Decent Sampler
Soviet PIF Synth: A Cute Analog Synthesizer for Children
Do you remember the good old days of Soviet Russia? If you’re a fan of analog synthesizers, then you’ll love the new Soviet PIF Synth! This adorable little synth is perfect for children, and it comes with a FREE sample library that will give you hours of fun!
Soviet PIF Synth
These colorful little synths were clearly designed with children in mind. They are small and lightweight, making them easy to carry around. The controls are large and brightly colored, making them easy to use. And the sound quality is surprisingly good for such a small and inexpensive instrument.
The Pif was produced from roughly 1989-1993 in a city called Ромны in Ukraine. The factory that produced them, Роменский завод АТС, specialized in industrial telephone equipment, but also made several consumer products including this synthesizer.
Despite their child-friendly design, the Pif synths are capable of producing a wide range of sounds, from energetic dance beats to atmospheric pads to serene melodies. Thanks to their affordability and portability, the Pif synths remain popular among musicians of all ages.
A Cute Analog Synthesizer for Children
The Soviet PIF Synth is a unique and powerful tool for anyone looking to create original and arresting sounds. The synth uses raw analog waveforms to generate its sound, resulting in a harsh and industrial sound that is perfect for any aggressive or dark production.
In addition, the synth comes with a wide variety of modulation options, making it possible to create complex and evolving soundscapes. The Soviet PIF Synth is a must-have for any serious producer looking to add some edge to their productions.
USSR Synths – The Best Soviet Synthesizers of All Time
The Soviet Union was a powerhouse when it came to synthesizers. Many of the best synths of all time were developed in the USSR, and they remain popular to this day. In this blog post, we will take a look at some of the best Soviet synthesizers ever made. We will discuss their features and how they have influenced music over the years. If you are interested in learning more about Soviet synths, this blog post is for you!
The first synth on our list is the Polivoks. This synth was developed in the early 1980s and it quickly became one of the most popular synths in the USSR. The Polivoks is known for its unique sound, which has been used by many famous musicians over the years. The Polivoks is also notable for its durability; many of these synths are still in use today, more than 30 years after they were first created.
Next on our list is the Formanta EMS-01. This synth was developed in the late 1970s and it was one of the first affordable synthesizers available to Soviet musicians. The Formanta EMS-01 is a simple yet powerful synth that can create a wide variety of sounds. This synth is still used by many musicians today, and it remains a popular choice for those looking for an affordable and versatile synth.
Free Soviet PIF Synth Sample Library
This sample library performs with the FREE DecentSampler plug-in. You can download the Decent Library here.
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