Vintage Synth Explorer

Elektron • Monomachine SFX-6/60

Monomachine SFX-60

The Monomachine combines several types of synthesizers with an intuitive beat-box-style programming interface. Think of it as five synthesizers in one package with a flexible sequencer and plenty of real-time controls for a unique twist on desktop music machines! It has 6-part multitimbral capability which allows for up to 6 mono-synth sounds at once, or a single 6-voice polyphonic sound.

The SuperWave synthesizer, which is analog modeled, gives warm and thick sounds made from unique algorithms that makes sounds free from the artifacts normally associated with digital processing. Traditional (and 303-like) saw and pulse waveforms and sub-oscillators give you fat bass synth and lead sounds, while the ensemble is specialized in creating polyphonic textures, chords, and harmonies.

The Mono-synth SID is based on the synthesis of the legendary SID chip, from the Commodore 64. The SID 6581 machine offers one oscillator of high quality synthesis, complete with ring-mod and sync. Just like the original, the oscillators are derived from an extremely fast main counter, giving the crisp highly recognizable sound.

DigiPRO offers raw digital waveforms, which can be put into animated life. The BeatBox, which is a part of DigiPRO, offers a percussive toolbox shaped in the traditions of the Machinedrum E12 synth. The sounds of DigiPRO WAVE are harsh and electric and stand out in the mix.

FM+ is 21st century FM synthesis. It implements world class frequency modulation algorithms that address the complexity problem normally associated with FM. All three FM+ machines are based around a number of custom made FM blocks. The machines have been handcrafted, each with its own personality.

VO is inspired by classic voice modeling methods using formant synthesis. The goal was not to recreate any existing voice or speech synthesizer, but to create a new way of building and controlling a synthetic voice in a way that suits musicians. VO-6 is the VO incarnation of the Monomachine. User controllable between pulse or white noise, formant filters and a set of predefined consonant-like sounds.

While the Monomachine's 6-part beat-box-style sequencer can be used to create your own synth grooves, it offers six additional MIDI tracks that can be used for controlling external MIDI gear. MIDI control data can be generated realtime, with parameter locks and with LFOs. Each MIDI track offers a full implementation of the Monomachine arpeggiator.

Monomachine SFX-6

The SFX-6 is a limited edition of the original SFX-60, with an integrated 3-octave LED-action keyboard, MULTI-TRIG key and specialized sound manipulating super-smooth dj-style joystick. Owner's of the original SFX-60 can purchase an external control keyboard to replicate SFX-6 functionality.

So without further ado, click on the YouTube link above so you can see and hear the Monomachine in action!

VISITOR COMMENTS

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Posting Rules: Please keep your comments relevant! Do not post requests for help, do not use for sales, do not post unless you have something interesting to say about this instrument, or we may delete your post.

 

VR Trooper

Posted 352 days ago

This synth is an absolute bad bwoy! Goes from 0 to complete disgusting filth quicker than a Massey Fergusson with a Ferrari engine bolted onto it! The wavetables sound stunning and the FM+ synth is incredible. On saying that SID, DigiPro and the VO engine are bloody brilliant too - can't think of anything I dislike about it really. The Mk2 has some new features like the ability to load in your own wavetables and is about 2 or 3mm shorter than the Mk1. I have a Mk1 and not being able to load in my own wavetables hasn't exactly prevented me from being able to create the sounds I wanted. Does hard and harsh, and shimmery and delicate equally well. Proper quirky.

NoamLavi

Posted 356 days ago

can someone tell me how powerfull is the 6 part external seq is?
i'm planning on working with a Nova synth so it would be perfect for me (nova is 6 part multi).
but can the midi output rate can really hold up against 6 parts of intense real time tweaks?

astroburger

Posted 445 days ago

the best machine, good sequncer good sound good edith
the mono its unique.

its best dolly parton and harry conning jr duet

hageir / Geir Helgi Birgisson

Posted 452 days ago

The Monomachine (and the Machinedrum) are hands-down the two greatest pieces of gear of our times.
They both, single handingly have made me realize that I don't need anything else. I've sold most of my gear because... I don't need anything else!

Niall

Posted 455 days ago

You can do so much with this box, especially the SFX6. It's been the brain of my studio for years.

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