Fred’s Lab Angler: Go Deep With This New Monophonic Analog Synth
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Fishing for a new synth? Check out Fred’s Lab Angler, an analog mono synth with classic synthesis architecture, effects and a step sequencer.
Fred’s Lab Angler
You may know boutique German synth manufacturer Fred’s Lab for its Manatee, a well-apportioned multitimbral, 16-voice spectral polysynth. Now Fred is back with another marine-themed machine, but this one decidedly more basic: the Angler.
I say “basic” but that is in no way a criticism, as some of my favorite synths are simple in synthesis but have it where it counts: the sound. There’s no demo yet to judge Angler on its sonic merits, but knowing Fred’s Lab, we have nothing to worry about.
Fred’s Lab Angler: Tabletop Monosynth
Like the Manatee, Fred’s Lab Angler is a tabletop instrument. Unlike that digital poly, however, this one is analog and monophonic. Let’s look at what it has to offer in terms of synthesis.
First up is the oscillator section. There are two linear relaxation VCOs, each with its own set of features. VCO-1 gives you multiple analog waveform shapers, including sine, triangle, pulse & PWM, plus custom CD4026 waveforms, and toggle switches to engage 5th and Lo (LFO) modes. VCO-2, on the other hand, includes saw and square waveshapes plus linear FM and pulse-width modulation from the first oscillator. There’s also a mixer to adjust between the two.
As expected, the next stop in the signal flow is the filter, in this case an FL A847 2-pole VCF – the same one in Fred’s ZeKit and Töörö instruments. The VCA is also analog and uses the same chip as the filter.
Fred’s Lab Angler: Modulation, Effects and Steps
Let’s talk modulation. Along with the LFO mode in VCO-1, Fred’s Lab Angler contains two envelopes, an AD envelope generator for the filter, and an ASR hardwired to the amp. Conveniently, ENV-F is also loopable, giving you another LFO (well, LFO-ish modulation) should you need it.
The Angler also has an analog effects section that makes use of two PT2399 chips. This is a gloriously lo-fi chip that started life in consumer-grade karaoke machines in the 1990s. You can use it as a BBD-style delay (both mono and stereo) or chorus/flanger, with control over time and modulation. As an added bonus, the synth comes equipped with an audio in, allowing you to route an external source through the circuit.
The Angler also includes a 96-step sequencer.
Fred’s Lab Angler: Connectivity
Fred’s new synth is well-stocked in the connects department, with 3.5mm TRS MIDI in and out, USB A MIDI for connecting to any USB MIDI controller directly, with no computer or extra power required, as the Angler can act as a USB MIDI host. You also get 3.5mm clock in and out for the sequencer, a mono 6.35mm in, stereo 6.35mm outs, and a front-facing headphone jack.
Fred’s Lab Angler: Pricing and Availability
Fred’s Lab Angler looks like a fun little synth for beginners and more experienced synthesists alike. I’m a fan of the white medical equipment-like stylings, and like how some of the screen printing is at an angle to others (hence the name?). As for how it sounds, we’ll have to wait and see. Fred’s Lab will be at Synth Fest France 2026 this weekend, so hopefully we’ll get some demos then.
Fred has yet to release price or availability information. He does plan to make it available in two forms, pre-assembled or as a semi-kit. It will be strictly limited edition.
More Information
- Fred’s Lab Angler product page
- More about Fred’s Lab
- More about synths
- Buy synths at Thomann*
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