MATRIXSYNTH: Behringer Working on FPGA Based Elka Synthex Clone


Friday, June 14, 2024

Behringer Working on FPGA Based Elka Synthex Clone



Note the top pic appears to be the development environment while the bottom two are of a vintage Synthex. According to Behringer their Synthex is a couple years out:

"Recreating the Magic of the Elka Synthex

The Elka Synthex, a synthesizer from the early 1980s, is cherished for its rich, warm sound and unique character. Musicians like Jean-Michel Jarre and Duran Duran have used it to create iconic tracks, solidifying its place in music history. Designed by Mario Maggi and produced by the Italian company Elka, the Synthex has a storied past.

At Behringer, we're working to revive the Elka Synthex with a dedicated team of top-notch R&D engineers in Italy, where the original was created. Using advanced Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), we're able to replicate the original circuitry and signal paths, capturing the essence of its distinctive sound.

The Role of FPGA’s

FPGAs help us recreate the immensely complex inner workings of the Synthex, ensuring we maintain its unique tonal qualities while improving reliability and performance. The two large chips in the center of the main board are Xylinx FPGA’s.

Honoring a Classic

Our goal is to make the classic sound of the Elka Synthex available to today’s musicians, combining its vintage appeal with modern technology. This passion project aims to respect the legacy of the Synthex while providing the enhancements needed for contemporary use.

Bringing back the Synthex

Stay tuned as we work to bring the Elka Synthex back to life, celebrating its history and sound with the same passion and innovation that marked its original creation.

This 'labor of love' project will take a few years, but it’ll be worth the wait as the Synthex is one of the most iconic synthesizers of all times. Send some love to Matteo and his R&D team."

1 comment:

  1. I may have less then 20 years left on this planet before I check out. I would like to own a PolyKobol will will it to my niece.

    ReplyDelete

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