ASM Hydrasynth Digital Wave Morphing Synthesizer, Desktop - Secondhand

Full Description

Expanded memory, parameters and much more - Firmware version 2.0

The latest firmware version for the Hydrasynth includes a whole host of new features, functions and expanded modulation options. The most prominent update is the expanded memory - now providing up to eight banks to work with. There is also a new modulation source for you to play with in the form of 'Voice Modulator' as well as a range of new functions including OSC bit-reducer, quantiser for the LFO and ENV; increased vibrato resolution and Global FX bypass. For more information and to download the new firmware update - click here.

Setting a new precedent in the synthesizer world

The HydraSynth takes its name from the serpent-like monster in Greek mythology. The Hydra is characterised by its three heads, with the HydraSynth featuring three oscillators. Taking after its namesake this powerful synthesizer feature a flexible sound engine that provides the perfect platform for complex sound design.

It features everything you could possibly need to create new and exciting sounds. From built-in, premium-grade effects to the five low-frequency oscillators and the modulation matrix; the HydraSynth gives you the tools to create whatever you like. It also features five DAHDSR envelopes with six stages for sculpting your sounds. You can even utilise macros to provide deep control over the engine for live performances and quick editing. Also included is an onboard ribbon controller you can use for hands-on playing.

Three oscillators and wavemorphing sound design

The three oscillators provide you with a selection of 219 single cycle waveforms. This wide range of waveforms provides you with a highly versatile sound palette, allowing you to achieve virtually any sound you can imagine.

What sets the HydraSynth apart from other synthesizer is the wavemorphing capabilities. This unique technology is usefully reserved for synths with preset wave tables. Unlike conventional wavetable synths, the Hydra features a WAVELIST mode on oscillators 1 and 2. From here you can pick and choose up to 8 waves, from the onboard bank of 219. You can then arrange them in any order you one and morph from one waveform to another.

24 poly-pressure touch pads

Conventional desktop synths normally need an external controller to play them. The Hydrasynth, Desktop has included 24 polyphonic pressure-sensitive pads for playing the synth. This allows you to demo sounds and adjust them in real-time. The synth provides with you multiple pad layout to choose from, as well as a variety of scales for ultimate flexibility.

Mutators – a new and versatile way to modulate

Innovative sound design advancements. The HydraSynth provides new and exciting ways to sculpt your tones and sounds. Oscillators 1 and 2 are routed into the Mutators. The Mutators provide in-depth ways to modulate, bend and sculpt sound in new and tested ways. Each Mutant allows you to choose from a wide range of processes.

FM-Linear mode is perfect for creating vintage-style FM sounds, allowing you to choose from multiple FM sources including external inputs. WaveStack™ allows you to create five copies of the incoming sound and set the detune amount. The Mutant’s can also generate its own waveforms whilst in FM and Sync modes, eliminating the need for another oscillator. Should you choose the other oscillators, you can use them as a modulation for added flexibility.

Built-in mixer and flexible filters

The three oscillators are routed into a mixer, alongside the Ring Modulator and Noise Generator. The mixer is the main hub for mixing levels and panning, with a balance control that allows you to blend the signal of each source when routed into filter 1 and 2. You can also set the filters to be parallel or series for added versatility.

256 Factory patches curated by renowned sound designers

Showcasing the powerful sound engine, the HydraSynth features 256 patches already built-in and ready to use. Ashun Sound Machines employed some of the best patch designers to create the factory patches. Navigating your sounds is made easy thanks to the library mode within the browser. The HydraSynth features 5 banks of 128 patches in total, which you can manage using the PC/MAC based Patch Manager plugin. Using the plugin, you can easily move patches and organise them to your liking, as well as load in new patches available in the future.

Easy navigation, flexible connectivity

The HydraSynth is compact enough to easily transport the synth but also big enough to make an impact on stage. The ergonomic layout makes it easier than ever to create sounds and play. It features a crisp OLED display for displaying the waveform and navigating between settings. It also includes a wide range of connections on the rear of the synth including CV/Gate, MIDI and USB.

Features

• 24 polyphonic, pressure-sensitive pads with multiple pad layouts and scales to choose from
• Three oscillators with 219 single cycle waveforms
• Mutators – allows you to modulate, bend and sculpt oscillators 1 and 2
  • FM-Linear - for making classic FM sounds. Choose multiple FM sources, including external inputs
  • Wavestack™ - creates 5 copies of the incoming sound and allows you to set a detune amount
  • Hard Sync - This gives you those classic hard sync sounds. Try hard syncing a morphing wavetable for some fun
  • Pulse Width - This will pulse width modulate ANY input sound
  • PW - Squeeze - This is a different form of pulse width mod that creates a smoother sound
  • PW-ASM - this mode divides the incoming wave into 8 slices and allows you to set how much pulse width mod will happen in each section
  • Harmonic Sweep - this will sweep the harmonics of the incoming sound
• Onboard mixer, noise generator and ring modulator
• First filter has 11 different filter models
• Second filter is 12dB per octave similar to a classic SEM filter
• Five low-frequency oscillators for monstrous bass generation
• 5 DAHDSR envelopes
• Modulation matrix with 32 user definable modulation routings and 155 modulation destinations
• Arpeggiator for generating melodic patterns
• Crisp OLED display providing visual feedback
• 256 custom-made factory presets from the best patch designers in the world
• Pre-effects and post-effects including delays and reverbs

Specifications