The Mono Evolver was the highly anticipated performance-oriented keyboard version of the original Evolver table-top sound module. The voice architecture is identical to the Evolver, but it sports a 3-octave semi-weighted keyboard, pitch and mod wheels, a new built-in arpeggiator, and finally enough knobs and switches to put all the controls within easy reach.

Mono Evolver is a true analog synthesizer that incorporates many of Dave Smith and Sequential's old secrets, circuits and technologies. It's monophonic with four oscillators - two analog DCOs and two digital - it's a true analog/digital hybrid synth. The analog oscillators feature multiple classic waveforms plus pulse-width modulation and hard sync, and they sound really nice and big. The digital oscillators feature FM synthesis, Ring Modulation and 96 wavetables straight out of the Prophet VS (plus 32 user wavetables, loaded via MIDI software editors such as Motu Unisyn).

Mono Evolver also features two Curtis voltage-controlled analog low-pass filters which are fully resonant and switchable for two- or four-pole operation, two digital highpass filters and real analog VCAs. Modulation capabilities are handled by four LFOs and three ADSR envelope generators (for the filter, the amp, and one is user assignable). There are dedicated onboard effects (feedback, delay, distortion, glide, etc.). Stereo audio inputs let you process external audio through the Mono Evolver's filters, envelopes, LFOs and effects. The Evolver's ultra-cool MIDI-syncable 16-step, 4-parameter, analog-style sequencer (with each patch able to store its own sequence) is also on-board to really bring the Mono Evolver to life with animated evolving sounds. The LFOs, step sequencer, and three separate delays can all be synced for massive, rhythmic, time-based effects in stereo.

A major unique feature of the Mono Evolver is that although it is monophonic, it has a true stereo signal path. The reason many things come in multiples of two here is because each channel gets its own independent analog oscillator, lowpass filter, highpass filter, VCA and effects. It's sort of like two independent synths - one on the left and another on the right. This allows for pretty nice stereo imaging effects not possible with most other mono-monophonic synths. Some of the factory patches will make your jaw drop - sometimes it's really hard to believe it has only a single voice!

The original Evolver was a hit when it came out. There just were no other modern analog-digital synthesizers in its price range. It sounds wonderful, and was one of those synths that has no real need for external effects. But it was limited in its table-top form, with just 8 rotary knobs for hands-on control. Four years after the Evolver was released, Mono Evolver finally appeared to make the Evolver a true performance-oriented synthesizer, and without breaking the bank! For about the same price you could also get the Poly Evolver Rack which is basically 4 Evolvers in one tidy little polyphonic rack module. And then there's the flag-ship keyboard version - the Poly Evolver - twice as expensive but four times as big.

GOLSF

September 7, 2010 @ 3:27 pm

Of all the synths I've owned, including many classics (Jupiter 6, Rhodes Chroma, Alesis Andromeda), the Evolver is by far my favorite. It incorporates the best aspects of digital technology (think Prophet VS and wavetables) with the best aspects of analog (Curtis filters, massive Oscs). The layout is very logical and easy to learn. I also LOVE the 3 digital delays included with this synth.

I do wish the sequencer was a bit easier as I find it confusing. Also, wish the encoders weren't as jumpy as they are.

That said, this instrument makes very unique, musical tones that are an inspiration.

Rose Specs

December 3, 2009 @ 10:30 am

A truly awesome and versatile synth that I've used heaps. The interface could be a bit more responsive; a little tedious to make it do what you want it to sometimes but not too much and the sound never dissapoints. Great performance oriented tweakable effects. Definitely has a rediculous list of features/possibilites.
I think 'Danny Gee the Giant Antelope MC' used the MEK on his debut album.

Tim

October 30, 2009 @ 11:05 am

This is an extremely versatile little synthesizer. It can produce both immense elaborate sounds and very pretty musical tones. The 2 analog oscillators are fairly warm, while the 2 digital oscillators add another quality - not tinniness, but not warmth either; almost a reedy type tone. The 4 LFO's allow for all sorts of simultaneous modulation - vibrato, pulse width modulation, filter sweeping, and stereo panning all at once. This makes for a very animated moving effect.

This is an excellent instrument for the traveling musician, since it's only 26 inces long and very lightweight. Note that the MEK fits into the same ATA case as the Prophet '08.

I was hesitant to buy a synthesizer that was even partly digital, because I shun the tinny quality of digital instruments. The MEK didn't disappoint me. I'm thrilled with its musical quality.

djsinistral

August 15, 2009 @ 4:46 pm

GREAT SYNTH! Incredibly versatile, just dialling through the presets is jaw dropping. Makes almost every other mono synths seem very limited.

S Dhain

March 2, 2009 @ 6:29 pm

Ive had this, the evolver DT, the poly evolver KB AND the mopho. Out of those i used the mopho to the max. The sound quality is a real marmite scenario, as although it does have hints of prophet vs due to the wavetables, it is incredibly noisy on a lot of the presets. Judicious programming can knock some of this out, but on the main, it does require patient eq'ing when recording in a mix to get the best out of it.

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