FutureRetro • XS
Click picture to see panel close-up
The FutureRetro XS is a true analog synthesizer with a modern, aggressive sound. Its compact form can be configured as a desktop or rack-mount module - whichever the user wants. The XS is monophonic with semi-modular characteristics. It has 46 controls on its surface, 43 of which are knobs for full knob-tweaking bliss. It has pre-wired internal signal routings similar to traditional synthesizers. However, there are 7 inputs and 11 outputs that can be utilized to override the pre-wired signal routings and interface with other instruments - even process external audio - making the XS a true semi-modular instrument.
The XS has 2 voltage controlled oscillators that can be frequency modulated independently by internal and external signals for complex waveforms. A dedicated LFO can be used to modulate external or internal signals. The 2-pole multimode filter can be used as a lowpass, bandpass, highpass, or notch filter and is capable of self-oscillation. Velocity-sensitive ADSR envelopes can be used to alter filter and amp.
Both MIDI and CV/Gate can be used separately or together to control signals in a variety of configurations. It can also act as a CV/Gate to MIDI converter, including CV/Gate/Mod Wheel/Velocity signals for controlling other analog instruments.
The XS can be used to make a variety of analog synth sounds including basslines, leads, drones, percussion, and sound effects. Although the XS is monophonic, multiple units can be linked together for more flexible and polyphonic possibilities. And like any true analog synth, there is no on-board memory, no effects processors, and sequencing/arpeggiation features are handled via external controllers (such as FutureRetro's Revolution).
Very snappy envelopes, make it perfect for bass and percussive sounds such as kick drums and snares.
Then there's the extensive routing and expandability plus clever features like different envelopes for accented note and an analogue distortion as if being about to overdrive the oscillators and filter wasn't enough. It's also not massively common to find a sine wave which is great for thickening and sub bass!
The build quality is high, no mass produced and discreet components are used!
But you should know before buying that the pots and pot markings are not very precise, that there's no sustain pedal option (that suggestion in the manual of changing the MIDI channel is a joke... what if I want to turn the modwheel when the pedal is down?), that the lfo has a very narrow range (guess that's the price of also having a sync option with MIDI clock), and that the hardsync "sticks" a little.
And what's this habit of marking a toggle switch with "sync", whatever it is it does?
Still, excellent, excellent VFM.
i highly recommend the matching ORB sequencer as a controller as it really puts the icing on the cake of awesomeness. its possible to get a really fat 303 acid on steroids sound.
also gotta say that the customer service from Future Retro is better than any customer service i have ever experienced. responses are always quick and detailed.
this synth is amazing. it has a unique sound. it excels at everything monosynths are known to be good for and has TONS ofexcellent modulation capabilties.
build quality is great and the knobs turn beautifully.
better info on this synth is available at future retro's website. this write up is pretty bad and lacking info.