Anyma Omega: Polyphonic physical modelling hybrid synthesizer

14 Nov 2022 by Robin Vincent |

4,8 / 5,0 | Approximate reading time: 2 Minutes

Anyma Omega · Source: Aodyo

Anyma Omega Desktop · Source: Aodyo

Anyma Omega Keyboard · Source: Aodyo

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Aodyo takes hardware-based physical modelling synthesis to the next level with 16-voice polyphony in Anyma Omega.

Physical Modelling

Physical modelling is a bit thin on the ground when it comes to hardware. I’m thinking of the 2-voice Yamaha VL1, the monophonic Korg Prophecy and the Z1 12-voice version. I do recall The Technics WSA1 was something mad like 64-voice, but it was largely incomprehensible. But all of these synths are ancient.

Physical modelling tends to be complex, which is why we often find it as a monophonic algorithm knocking around in Eurorack modules or hybrid synths that don’t give you more than a parameter or two to play with. It’s the sort of synthesis that lends itself to software, and that’s where it tends to reside.

Until a couple of years ago when Aodyo unleashed the Anyma Phi onto Kickstarter. It was a monophonic physical modelling synth that aimed to make the manipulation of those models the centrepiece of the synthesis engine. It achieved nearly twice the original goal and delivered a decent physical modelling experience. But, you know, the box wasn’t very pretty, the matrix-style editor wasn’t for everyone, and while it sounded great, it was still monophonic.

Anyma Omega

So here we are, with a new synthesizer and a new Kickstarter campaign (that’s already fully funded) to bring the evolution of the Anyma Phi to life. Anyma Omega is based on the same engine but pulls it into 16 voices of polyphony and 4 part multitimbrality. The knob count has been raised to give you all sorts of access to parameters without having to page about the place. Although it still works with a screen to help you through the complexity and the semi-modular makeup of the architecture.

Anyma Omega Keyboard

Each voice has 3 oscillators which can run your choice of physical models, virtual analogue waveforms, wavetables, noise or external inputs. These can have their noodles messed about by up to 16 modulators and run through up to 5 effects.

Expression is also a big thing with this sort of synthesis. The Anyma Omega has a ribbon controller and touchpad (keyboard only) with sensitive wooden surfaces to give excitement to resonators and help you feel your way into the instrument. There’s a “Polymorph” function that gives depth and density to the sound through detuning, panning and oscillator spread.

Anyma Omega Desktop

Kickstarting

The synth is available in a desktop or keyboard version, and they are both already flying. If you’re quick, you can snatch up a desktop version for £632 and a keyboard for £868.