PWM Mantis Duophonic Hybrid Synthesizer

  • PWM Mantis Duophonic Hybrid Synthesizer - Top
  • PWM Mantis Hybrid Synthesizer - Front
  • PWM Mantis Synthesizer - Rear
  • PWM Mantis Duophonic Synthesizer - Side
  • PWM Mantis Analog Synthesizer - Angled
  • PWM Mantis Duophonic Hybrid Synthesizer - Angled Rear

  • Playing videos requires marketing & advertising cookies. By pressing Play, you consent to their use, which will override previously rejected settings. To update your preferences, see our cookie policy.

This product is currently not available for purchase

Key Features

  • Hybrid analog synthesis provides a huge tonal palette
  • V1.25 firmware update - unblocks true voice polyphony
  • Mathematically generated oscillators with a pure analog signal path
  • Dual filters with multi-mode state variable VCA and overdrive per voice
  • 37-note full-size semi-weighted keybed with aftertouch and joystick

PWM Mantis Duophonic Hybrid Synthesizer Overview

View this description in Danish

The PWM Mantis Duophonic Hybrid Synthesizer from the late Chris Huggett and PWM (Paul Whittington) is a comprehensive synthesis machine for superior sonic experimentation. Combining complex mathematics, DSP stability and analog control, its unique sound will revolutionise your music-making. With the new firmware update available (V.1.25), you can now unlock the full potential of the Manti with true voice polyphony - for more info see below.


Equipped with two oscillators that utilise advanced mathematics and are powered by a robust DSP chip, allows for ultimate tonal control without compromising the PWM signature sound. On top of this, you'll find a state variable VCF filter with overdrive built with the SSI2164 chip specially designed by Chris - it's sure to deliver those unmistakable tones, previously reserved exclusively for the OSCar! With two filters in each analog signal path as well as width modulation controls, you're able to customise sounds beyond measure to create something truly special.


Combining the architecture of two classic (WASP and OSCar) synthesizers; the Mantis features everything you need to create massive tones and sounds including a semi-weighted keybed for optimal expression. The premium-grade keybed comes complete with aftertouch, accompanied by a 360-degree joystick for controlling modulation and more. The integrated mixer and modulation matrix allow you to get in-depth with your sound design with an intuitive control panel for hands-on control.


Product Ref: 261907

Full Description

View Full Description

Unlock true voice polyphony with V1.25 polyphonic update

The latest V1.25 firmware update for the Mantis synthesizer introduces true voice polyphony, significantly enhancing its sonic capabilities and tonal versatility. This exciting addition allows users to explore richer, more complex soundscapes, making the Mantis even more flexible for a wide range of musical styles.

Whether layering lush chords or crafting intricate harmonies, the update takes full advantage of the synth's precision digital oscillators and dual-state variable filters. Available now from the PWM website, this update solidifies the Mantis' position as a powerful and evolving instrument, continuing the legacy of Chris Huggett's innovative design philosophy.

Hybrid analog/digital design

The result of a partnership between Chris Huggett (Gnat, WASP, OSCar) and PWM (Paul Whittington), the Mantis Synthesizer is a remarkable instrument that boasts the best of both worlds with its hybrid analog and digital design. Under development for years, Huggett had poured all his knowledge into the Mantis before passing away, leaving PWM to complete the project. The support of Huggett's estate was pivotal in bringing this synth to reality.

Powerful oscillators with complex architecture

The Mantis Synthesizer features powerful oscillators optimized by complex computations. With the oscillators running on a DSP chip, the synth achieves optimal stability and sound control without sacrificing its iconic analog voice. The Mantis Synthesizer is an example of what can be achieved through blending both analog and digital engineering.

Multi-mode state variable VCA filter

The filter is another key component of the Mantis Synthesizer. Designed by Huggett and built using the SSI2164 chip, it is a multi-mode state variable VCA with overdrive. The Mantis Synthesizer's filter is designed with two separate filters - one for each analog signal partition. The filters can be run in series or parallel, allowing for the creation of sounds unique to the OSCar synthesizer.

Onboard digital effects

In addition to the VCA filter, the Mantis Synthesizer has two digital effects: reverb and chorus. These effects provide users with even greater sonic control opportunities. With the reverb, you can adjust the time and level parameters seamlessly, while the high and low pass filters limit unwanted sounds.

ADSR envelopes

The Mantis Synthesizer has two ADSR envelopes, each with a sustain-fall parameter, and negative and positive velocity modulation for greater convenience. Sustain fall enables designers to lower an aspect of the sound before releasing, even while pressing a key. Each envelope can be set to repeat, allowing it to act as a pseudo-LFO and adjust the frequencies in real time.

Analog gain staging

The Mantis Synthesizer's analog gain staging provides perfect amplification to ensure your sound overdrives in natural ways with sonic warmth. The SSI2164 chip is used to run the VCA, with a fully analog signal patch that is twice amplified to deliver crisp warmth and distortion when needed.

What's Included

  • Mantis synthesizer
  • Power supply
  • USB-C lead
  • Getting Started guide

Specifications

  • 200 Patches:
    • All patches in RAM so can be overwritten
    • Bank A: 100 Factory presets
    • Bank B: 100 User presets (all set to initial patch)
    • Compare function
    • Initialise patch function
  • Duophonic with 2 analog signal paths:
    • Mathematically generated oscillators designed by Chris Huggett
    • Analogue signal path designed by Chris Huggett
  • 2 Oscillators plus sub-oscillator per voice:
    • Sine / Triangle / Saw / Pulse plus additional wave types
    • Shape control and shape modulation input (will create pulse width modulation on the pulse waveform with perfect square at the centre)
    • Pitch modulation control
    • Octave selects per oscillator
    • OSC 1 SUB follows oscillator 1 parameters
  • Oscillator Drift:Creates random pitch variations between oscillators
  • Multi-mode state variable VCA filters with overdrive:
    • 2 Analogue filters - 1 per signal path
    • Low Pass / Band Pass / High Pass in 12dB and 24dB configurations
    • Additional WBAND (series) and WSTOP (parallel) types
    • Filter Cutoff
    • Filter Cutoff Modulation
    • Filter Resonance
    • Filter Width
    • Filter Width Modulation
    • Filter Keytrack
  • LFO (Low Frequency Oscillator):
    • 2 LFOs
    • 4 waveshapes per oscillator
    • Fade In / Fade Out parameter
    • SYNCable
    • Rate control
  • Envelopes:
    • 2 Independent envelopes
    • ENV 1 normalised to amplitude
    • ADSR
    • + Sustain Fall parameter for shaping during key-down
    • + Repeat which can be used to create looping envelopes
    • Velocity positive and negative control
  • Mixer:
    • First mix: OSC1 and OSC2
    • Second mix: OSCillators and noise
    • Third mix: OSCillators + noise and Ring modulator
  • Modulation Routes:
    • Control - 6 choices of modulation parameters
    • Source - 6 choices of effectors from envelopes and LFOs
    • Scale - choices of controls used to scale the effect of the modulation
  • Glide:
    • Glide amount
    • Auto-glide mode
  • Indicator LEDs:
    • Two LEDs for Voice
    • LED for Keyboard activity
  • Triggering:
    • ENV 1 Legato
    • ENV 2 Legato
    • LFO Keytrig
    • LFO Keytrig
  • Connections:
    • Master power switch
    • DC 9V input
    • USBC
    • MIDI IN / OUT / THRU
    • Sustain pedal input (switch)
    • Pedal input (continuous)
    • Stereo 1/4” line Outs: L/Mono and R
    • Stereo 1/4” headphone out
  • Multi-function Joystick control:
    • Left / right for pitch bend
    • Performable vibrato
    • Latching hold mode
  • Arpeggiator:
    • 6 arpeggiator types (Up, Down, Up/Down 1, Up/Down 2, Played & Random
    • Sync rates control from 2nds to 32nds
    • Tap tempo button
    • Swing including positive and negative swing
    • Auto clock sync (Detects MIDI or USB-MIDI clock and synchronises the arpeggiator automatically)
    • Latch via joystick HOLD
    • 6 Octave range
  • Duophonic mode control:
    • Duo mode
    • Duo mode with simple filter
    • Pan control for duophonic voicing
  • Digital Effects:
    • Reverb time
    • Reverb level
    • Reverb High Pass Filter
    • Reverb Low Pass Filter
    • Chorus level
    • Chorus type
  • Keyboard Control:
    • 37 Full-size semi-weighted velocity-sensitive keys
    • Channel aftertouch
    • Octave shift
  • Dimensions: 320 x 320 x 110 mm
  • Weight: 5.3 kg
  • Product Code: MANTIS