XS Semi-Modular Analog Synthesizer

"Coming in 2007, the new XS from Future Retro.

The XS is a true semi-modular analog synthesizer with a universe of sonic possibilities just waiting to be discovered. Our versatile design allows it to be used as either a desktop or rack mounted instrument, and it’s compact size makes it ideal for musicians on the go.

In it’s simplest form the XS is an extremely powerful monophonic synthesizer including 46 controls with internal signal routings pre-wired in a way which allow the unit to act similar to traditional synthesizers. The unit also provides 7 inputs and 15 outputs which can be connected in various ways to override the pre-wired signal routings, and interface the unit with other instruments in a modular fashion, and even process external audio.

The XS can be controlled by both MIDI and CV/Gate control signals simultaneously in a variety of ways. The XS can also act as a MIDI to CV/Gate converter with outputs including CV/Gate/Mod Wheel/Velocity signals for controlling other analog instruments.

With a single unit you can easily create basslines, leads, drones, percussion, and sound effects. Connect multiple units together to form larger systems and the possibilities are endless.

The XS provides 2 ultra stable wide range voltage controlled oscillators. Oscillator A generates saw tooth, and square waveforms, ring modulation and a white noise source. Oscillator B generates sine, triangle, saw tooth, pulse width/square waveforms, and it’s own sub oscillator waveform which can be 1/2, 1/4, 1/8, or 1/16th the frequency of the main waveform. The pulse width shape of oscillator B can be set manually or modulated with an internal or external control voltage, and oscillator B can also sync it’s frequency to oscillator A. Each oscillator can be frequency modulated independently by both internal and external signals to create more complex waveforms. Dedicated outputs are provided for oscillator A and B as well as the sub oscillator and noise.

A dedicated LFO generates triangle, saw tooth, square, and random waveforms, to modulate internal parameters. The LFO can act in a free-running mode, or sync it’s rate to divisions of an external MIDI clock. The LFO has it’s own output to modulate external circuits as well.

The mixer section sets the levels of the oscillators and sub oscillator waveform or any external audio signal to be sent to the input of the filter.

The 2-pole multimode filter provides 4 filter types including low pass, band pass, high pass, and notch settings. With high resonance settings the filter will self oscillate allowing it to act as an additional audio source. The cutoff frequency can be modulated by both internal and external signals. And the filter’s input and output can be overdriven independently giving it unique tone characteristics. A dedicated output for the filter is also provided.

The XS includes our unique velocity sensitive ADSR type envelope with additional attack and decay time settings for accented envelopes. It’s like having two envelopes in one, and capable of some truly funky sounds. This is the main modulation envelope internally routed to the modify the oscillators and filter. The envelope can be triggered by internal or external logic signals. Both normal and inverted polarity envelopes are available at the output.

And finally a voltage controlled amplifier is provided to process the amplitude of signals. The amplifier normally affects the filter’s output but can also be used to process external audio signals. The amplifier has it’s own dedicated envelope with 4 selectable shapes, velocity sensitive amplitude, and independent accent times. The amplifier also has a volume control for attenuating signals sent to the main output.

A universal power supply is also included, which allows the unit to be used in all countries.

Note: This is preliminary information only for this product. Actual features and design of this product may change at any time before production begins. Pricing and release date for this product is TBA."

XS Audio Demos
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