ASM Hydrasynth – the new polyphonic synthesis powerhouse
From the mind behind the Arturia Brute synths, Akai APC40 and others, comes the all-new polyphonic beast, the ASM Hydrasynth.
Ashun Sound Machines is a relatively new brand on the scene, but they have gone all-out with their new offering, the ASM Hydrasynth. It’s an incredibly capable polyphonic synthesizer, with almost all the bells and whistles a sound designer could ever need. The synth comes in a desktop and keyboard version, the keyboard version comes equipped with polyphonic aftertouch keys, and something unique to the desktop version – polyphonic aftertouch pads. Often desktop synths require an external synth to trigger notes, while the ASM Hydrasynth desktop version offers hands-on playability. The pads have various modes for triggering scales, chords and more.
Along the top of the keyboard is a ribbon controller which has various modes, you can apply modulation to any parameter in the modulation matrix, pitch-bend or a unique “theremin mode” which generates pitch and trigger when you touch the ribbon.
The ASM Hydrasynth features CV input that can handle voltage or audio-rate signals, you can apply the CV to almost any parameter including pitch. There are also several CV/Gate outputs making it a great companion for modular synths.
What’s under the hood?
The ASM Hydrasynth is a digital synth at heart, it takes advantage of an advanced modulation matrix and huge oscillator capabilities. Each oscillator features several modes, from traditional stuff like FM and PWM to more experimental stuff like Wavescan and ASM’s own unique mode that splits a single cycle into eight parts and allows you to apply unique PWM to each part, for very interesting results. The synth is an eight-voice synth; however, it features an intuitive “voice overflow” mode, allowing you to hook up multiple units to create 16-voice patches.
There are two unique filters, capable of series or parallel mode – the first has 11 different filter types, while filter 2 is a variable SEM-style 12db filter. The synth has a ton of effects capabilities, it comes with a patch librarian which runs as a standalone or VST/AU plugin and it features eight macros for hands-on playability of your more advanced patches.
The ASM Hydrasynth Desktop is set to retail at USD $799 (Around R12k excl. duties) while the 49-key version is set at USD $1299 (Around R20k excl. duties).
For more information check out the Ashun Sound Machines website here