LAB POINTS
- compact monophonic synthesizer with 100% pure analog signal path
- 25 note mini keyboard
- built-in full function step sequencer
- legendary Steiner-Parker multimode filter (Low Pass, Band Pass, High Pass)
- massive Voltage Controlled Oscillator with Overtone Sub-Osc
- unique Ultrasaw and Metalizer signal enhancers for rich, complex waveforms
- Brute Factor function delivers saturation and rich harmonics to the sound
- syncable LFO with 3 mixable waveforms
- advanced interconnectivity via MIDI, USB, CV/GATE
- external analog audio input - run sounds through the MicroBrute's filters
- ADSR envelope generator
- patchable modulation matrix
LAB REVIEW
Building on the success of their MiniBrute analog mono synth, Arturia has dropped a synth that packs just a mighty punch despite being significantly smaller in size. The MicroBrute is a single oscillator, multi-waveform mono synth that offers the ability to mix similarly pitched sawtooth, square and triangle waveforms simultaneously, like the classic Roland SH-101. The Brute also provides some interesting wave tweaking tricks for additional flexibility. If you're after the fat analog sound vintage mono synths are known for, the sawtooth wave includes the Ultrasaw option which adds multiple phase-shifted saw waves to the original. For a harsher sound the triangle wave has a Metalizer knob, which lives up to its name. One of the most promising features of the MiniBrute is the Mod Matrix panel, which allows you to patch the envelope and LFO depth to different locations using the 3.5mm mini-jacks. Along with patching the synth with itself you can connect it with a wide range of analog technology, from synths to drum machines. There are the typical MIDI and USB ports found on today's synths, along with CV I/O (for non-MIDI synths), and external audio input to run any sound through the Microbrute's filter. The filter is built around the unconventional multi-mode Steiner-Parker filter which gives the synth its unique, characteristic sound. In addition, there's an on board step-sequencer that offers eight different pattern slots, and each can store a sequence of up to 64 steps. For less than $300, the MicroBrute is an impressive, feature packed, analog mono synth that offers enough connectivity options to continue earning its keep as part of a larger or growing studio setup. Recommended for beginners and experts alike.
KEY FEATURES
- 100% Analog Audio Signal Path
- Analog Voltage Controlled Oscillator
- Octave selector from -2 to +2 octaves
- Mod Wheel (assignable to Cutoff, or LFO amount)
- Pitch Wheel (with selectable bend range via software)
- CV In jacks: Pitch, Filter, sub-harmonics, pulse width, metalizer, saw animator
- CV Out jacks: pitch, envelope, LFO
- MIDI Inwith 5 pin DIN connector / MIDI Sync
- USB MIDI In/Out
- Sequencer features 8 memories, 64 steps per memory, tap tempo, rate control
- 1/4‰ Audio Output and 1/8‰ Headphone Output
- dimensions: 12.8" x 8.7" x 2.4" / 325x221x60mm
- weight: 3.85 pounds / 1.75 kg
COMES WITH
- 12V DC 1A power supply
- preset sheets
- 2 mini jack patch cords
