Arturia today introduced Synthx V, a new virtual instrument for Mac & Windows based on the Elka Synthex, a vintage analog polysynth from 1981.

They say that Synthx V goes above and beyond the original hardware, with enhancements and modulation options that put its sound design capabilities on par with the most powerful polysynths available today.

 Synthx V, faithfully recreating the architecture of the original Elka Synthex, with features such as versatile oscillators, ring modulation, pulse-width cross-modulation, and the renowned CEM 3320 filter. Created in 1981 by Italian engineer Mario Maggi, the Synthex was designed as a response to popular polys of the age such as Sequential’s Prophet 5. The Synthex used DCOs, giving it a more stable, cleaner sound than many of the VCO-based synths that preceded it. Its multitimbral design and onboard sequencer also made it ideal for creating complex, multi-part compositions.

Synthx V captures the multitimbral magnificence and dual-layer architecture of the fabled Elka Synthex in unprecedented detail. Elevated with advanced drag-and-drop modulation, effects and expressive keyboard controls – discover the ultimate tool for rich, symphonic analog sounds.

Synthx V leverages two digitally controlled oscillators. Its bi-timbral architecture allows for the combination of layers A and B, resulting in an extended sound design possibilities including complex and evolving sounds.

Synthx V’s voice layering, independent panning, stereo voice spread, dual analog chorus, and dedicated unison capabilities work together to create a wide soundstage. The instrument’s dual-layer operation also offers several modes, including Solo, Duo, and Link, which assigns layers to the left and right channels for a wide stereo image.

Modern features include 17 built-in effects in addition to the chorus, multiple modulation sources and a global LFO and an innovative multi-arp which combines four independent arpeggiators that are freely assignable to either of the two layers.

The Advanced panel also offers access to additional modulator controls, offering an ADSR envelope, customisable function generator and random source. Most interesting of all is the Multi-Arp, which puts a modernised spin on the original’s 4-track sequencer. This offers four distinct arpeggiators, each with comprehensive control over the rhythm and notes of the arp line produced, with plenty of options for randomisation and variation.

Features:

• Bi-timbral architecture.
• Solo or Duo (stacked) modes or Stereo Link for extra wide hard panned, twinned layers.
• Up to 16 voices of polyphony (8 per layer) and Mono mode.
• Two virtual analog DCOs.
• Unison mode per layer.
• Multimode filter: Curtis CEM3320 emulation, 24dB & latent 12dB Low Pass, 6 & 12dB Bandpass, and 12dB High pass modes.
• Noise generator (White & pink).
• BBD-based Chorus with 3 modes.
• Innovative Multi-Arp.
• Powerful Effects rack.
• Advanced drag-and-drop modulation.
• Accessible keyboard & macro controls.
• Extensive library of 240 presets.
• MPE compatibility.

Pricing and Availability:

Synthx V is available now for €199/$199.