Erica Synths Elektor Formant DIY Kit: Now Available for Pre-Order!
5,0 / 5,0 | 
Erica Synths’ spectacular reissue of the Elektor Formant modular system is now available for pre-order! It’s never been easier to get your hands on the rare modular synth first published in a DIY magazine in the 1970s.
Erica Synths Elektor Formant DIY Kit
We first got the news that Erica Synths is bringing back the Elektor Formant a couple of weeks ago via Instagram and Sam Battle aka Look Mum No Computer. Just two weeks later, the kit is now available for pre-order. If you’re up for an ambitious DIY project, it’s easier than ever to get your hands on an Elektor Formant!
The system comprises 27 modules, which were developed by Erica Synths in collaboration with Harald Antes of haraldswerk.de based on the original schematics. The modules were designed to be as DIY-friendly as possible. The internal wiring of the modules – a special feature of the Elektor Formant – has been retained so that the synth can be played without patch cables. Erica Synths has also taken the opportunity to expand the system with several new modules to make it even more flexible.
The following modules are included:
- SEQ: a sequencer (new module, not found in the original system)
- 3 x VCO
- 12 dB/Oct VCF
- 24 dB/Oct VCF
- RFM: formant filter module
- FX module (new module, based on DSP found on Erica Synths FX modules)
- COM: an updated Output module
- INTERFACE module: MIDI-CV module
- EF/RING: envelope follower and ringmodulator module
- NOISE: noise and random voltage generators
- DIVIDER: frequency divider module
- WAVEPROC: waveshaper
- 2 x VCA
- PHASER: an 8-stage optical phaser
- 2 x MIXER
- DISPATCH: buffered gate and CV multiple
- LFO
- 2 x VC LFO
- 2 x ADSR
- ADSR CONTROLLER
- DUAL S&H
In addition, the kit includes a power supply with an external 12-volt adapter, as well as a case with rails and threaded inserts.
Although the modules have been designed to be DIY-friendly, Erica Synths points out that the project is quite challenging and not suitable for beginners. At the recent event hosted by LMNC and Erica Synths, it took a team of 15 experienced builders about 24 hours to assemble the whole thing. In addition to a healthy dose of perseverance, you should also possess essential tools such as a multimeter and oscilloscope.
The Erica Synths Elektor Formant DIY Kit is available in two versions. The Full Kit contains all the required parts. The Partial Kit comes with the circuit boards, the case, and special components such as potentiometers. In this case, you’ll need to source generic electronic components such as semiconductors and passive components yourself from the electronics retailer of your choice.
Price and Availability
The Erica Synths Elektor Formant DIY Kit is now available for order in the Erica Synths online shop, with a variety of AC plugs to choose from. The full kit costs €3,000, while the partial kit will set you back €2,300 (VAT not included). According to Erica Synths, shipping will begin on August 21, 2025.
More Information
*This post contains affiliate links and/or widgets. When you buy a product via our affiliate partner, we receive a small commission that helps support what we do. Don’t worry, you pay the same price. Thanks for your support!
This might also interest you
