Modular synthesizer enthusiasts are over the moon with the news that B&H is now carrying Erica Synths’s line of electronic instruments. Based in Latvia, Erica Synths has slowly been carving out its place among high-end synthesizer manufacturers. The brand offers a remarkable range of modular and desktop synthesizers and drum machines. For anyone interested in modular synthesis, Erica Synths offers a wide range of products for any budget and skill level. Each of the complete systems comprises modules that are available individually, so you can purchase a complete system or build your own custom rig with or without a case.
The flagship Techno System is touted as the ultimate tool for rhythm-based music production, live performance, and sound design. The system is based on several drum modules, mixers, and effects, as well as the Drum Sequencer module. The drum modules are internally patched to the sequencer, so they receive trigger and accent signals even without patching relevant patch cables, allowing you to focus fully on the audio signal patching. The system ships with a travel case (universal PSU and case lid included) and 25 black patch cables.
The Black System III is another self-contained and performance-oriented system featuring a well-considered collection of the best-sounding and versatile Black Series modules. It’s a reliable companion for experienced musicians and an unlimited source of inspiration for any Eurorack enthusiasts. The included Black sequencer provides 4 channels of CV, Gate, and modulation outputs. With each sequence channel capable of 64 steps and the ability to chain sequences into entire songs, you’ll never run out of ideas for controlling your setup.
The Dada Noise System II can be used on its own or in combination with the Quadraphonic Surround Panner to create abstract organic analog noise, ambient soundscapes, industrial noise, massive bass, spherical atmospheres, unheard experimental drones, sonic glitches, and all kinds of thrilling horror and sci-fi sounds for the professional. The Dada System II system utilizes several Fusion modules, which feature vacuum tube-based sound generators and processors to create unbelievable tones. Meanwhile, the Quadraphonic Surround Panner expands the tonal and control pallet with additional Joysticks, mixers, and delays, making it the ultimate tool for film post-production, installation work, game-sound design, or quadraphonic performances. Nearly every module is a sound source of its own, making for endless sound, noise, and atmo-experiments.
For those interested in a smaller setup that’s a bit more affordable but just as capable, check out the Fusion System II and the Das Kleine Fusion systems. The Fusion System II features several tube-based modules for unprecedented pressure, unconventional modulations, and creativity-inspiring patching. The Das Kleine Fusion System is the younger sibling of the two and is intended to be used with external effects, making it smaller and even more affordable.
And finally, the Pico Systems are some of the smallest modular systems in the world. The Pico System II comprises 14 x 3 HP modules, including a sequencer, mixers, effects, and a dedicated output with headphone monitoring. This tiny system comes in its own case and is the ultimate portable modular system. The Pico System III is available as a desktop or as a single 42HP module. This system includes much of what the Pico System II offers but puts all “modules” into a single panel, allowing for a truly affordable system that doesn’t compromise on functionality. The Pico System III also has the ability to create and use preset cards for rapid sound switching, which is great for live performance.
Erica Synths also offers stand-alone instruments and effects that are outstanding in their own right. They work well alone and can be incorporated into larger performance-oriented systems. The SYNTRX II takes its inspiration from the legendary EMS Synthi AKS. It’s not a clone but does share many design functions, including a 16 x 16 patch matrix, like a patchable modular synthesizer, but without pins or patch cables. The PERKONS HD-01 blurs the line between drum machine, synthesizer, and drone instrument. It features four versatile hybrid voices (digital sound engine and analog multimode filter with overdrive) and a sequencer with simultaneous control over all four percussion tracks. The Zen Delay is a stereo desktop delay and filter FX processor. It offers a stereo delay line with multiple delay types and a 24dB filter with several filter modes and valve overdrive.
Another notable pair of instruments is the Bassline DB-01 Desktop Synthesizer and LXR-02 Drum Synthesizer. The Bassline DB-01 is an aggressive acid-style synthesizer capable of generating anything from bass lines and rave sounds to massive drones and drums. The LXR-02 was developed in cooperation with Sonic Potions, who created the LXR drum machine in kit form. Erica Synths now produces this ready-made instrument in a desktop form with six distinct drum voices and a seven-drum track sequencer. A LXR Eurorack drum module features the same sound engine of the LXR drum machine (sans sequencer), allowing you to incorporate stellar drums into your modular setup with a small 28 HP footprint.
If you are interested in understanding how to design and build synthesizers, Erica Synths offers a DIY Eurorack Modular System, an educational series of DYI modules that not only shows you how to build a synthesizer from scratch, but also delves into the design and how components are chosen. The system includes a manual that takes you through the circuit-design process step-by-step, explaining every choice that was made and how it impacts the finished module. If you've ever wanted to learn how to build a synthesizer but were intimidated by the process, these educational DIY kits are your perfect solution.
For more information about these products, including additional features, specs, and highlights, be sure to check out the detailed product page for Erica Synths. Or drop us a line below, and we’ll do our best to answer all your comments and questions.
0 Comments