Arturia has a refreshing approach with the Minibrute 2 and 2s

Arturia dive further into the semi-modular analog synth world, with the release of their new Minibrute 2 and 2s.

The second iteration of the Minibrute takes its aesthetic from the original while adding a whole host of new features such as the “Eurorack style” 48-point patchbay, for integration into an existing modular synth rig, or creating complex patches using creative signal paths. It’s not the first time we are seeing a patchbay on one of Arturia’s synthesizers, however none have been so specifically designed for use alongside other modular synths.

A refreshing addition to the Minibrute 2’s features is the step sequencer much like the sequencer found on Arturia’s renowned KeyStep controller. Users of the original Minibrute would know the sequencer was a bit clunky and unintuitive, while the new KeyStep style sequencer changes all of that. The pitch and modulation wheels on the original release were in a very unusual position, which made tweaking them while playing in the lower octave particularly difficult, thankfully Arturia made the much-needed shuffle.

Under the hood is a full analog signal path, incorporating two oscillators, a multi-mode filter and Arturia’s “Brute Force” distortion/feedback circuit, to really beef up the sound.

Arturia kept original Minibrute owners in mind when creating their new synth

Minibrute 2

There are 2 version of the new Minibrute 2 – the two-octave keyboard version and the complex sequencer version, called the Minibrute 2s. The 2s expands the sequencer to up to four tracks with 64 steps, furthermore it allows you to save up to sixteen sequences into four separate banks, to recall at any moment. The four tracks can be used to control pitch and note triggers, alongside modulation of any parameters using the patchbay.

So, for original Minibrute owners, the Minibrute 2s would be a fantastic addition to your rig. Not only will it play well with the original but add a host of much needed features. For live performers, the complex features in the sequencer make it the perfect master sequencer to sync and trigger your other gear!

Here are some specs on the Minibrute 2:

Semi-modular Analog Synth
25 Velocity-sensitive keys with Aftertouch
2 x Oscillators, 2 x LFOs
12db per octave Steiner Parker filter
Monophonic 64-step sequencer
48-point patchbay

Minibrute 2s

Here are some specs on the Minibrute 2s:

Semi-modular Analog Synth
16 Velocity and Pressure Sensitive Pads
2 x Oscillators, 2 x LFOs
12db per octave Steiner Parker filter
Four-track 64-step sequencer, with 4 banks
48-point patchbay

Both models retail at USD$649 (About R7700 excl. duties) and will hopefully hit our shores soon!

Arturia has a refreshing approach with the Minibrute 2 and 2s