The Synclavier name returns with digital Regen desktop synth

29 Oct 2022 by Rob Puricelli |

4,3 / 5,0 | Approximate reading time: 3 Minutes

SYNCLAVIER REGEN · Source: Synclavier

SYNCLAVIER REGEN REAR CONNECTIONS · Source: Synclavier

SYNCLAVIER REGEN SCREEN · Source: Synclavier

Previous Next

Synclavier, a name once synonymous with pioneering digital synthesis, returns to the synthesizer hardware market with the launch of the Synclavier Regen, a digital desktop synth that expands on a rich history of powerful digital synthesis, adding much more to their sonic palette.

SYNCLAVIER REGEN

The return of a legend

The Synclavier name conjures up images of huge digital synthesizers and even more huge digital audio recording systems that were astronomically expensive. These systems were almost always the exclusive playthings of wealthy producers, artists and studios. They were responsible for many great hits and grew to near mythical status. Considered by most to be ‘unobtanium’, they soon became out of date as many manufacturers started to make smaller and cheaper tools that soon began to exceed what the New England Digital Synclavier could do.

In recent years, interest has piqued with the likes of Arturia and UVI producing Synclavier based instruments. Arturia even enlisted Cameron Jones, one of the Synclavier’s original developers, to work on their Synclavier V plug in. Cameron himself has been quietly active in recent years, releasing iOS apps and controllers based on the infamous large silver ‘knob’ that featured on the Synclavier’s keyboard.

The new Synclavier Regen

But today sees the launch of a new piece of hardware bearing that illustrious Synclavier name. Regen is a desktop synth that features the Synclavier II DSP engine. It expands on that by adding a subtractive synthesis engine as well as being able to use samples for carrier waveforms. The unit ships with a host of built in content, including waveforms, samples and timbres both old and new. Regen also embraces modern MPE technology as well as handling polyphonic aftertouch when used with a suitable controller.

SYNCLAVIER REGEN REAR CONNECTIONS

More Power, Smaller Box

Unlike the originals, Synclavier Regen boasts a huge amount of powerful synthesis features and FX built in, and all of this squeezed into a desktop module. Original Synclavier systems were famous for looking like giant filing cabinets or refrigerators! Power to the Regen is supplied via a power-only USB-C connection on the rear using a supplied, low-ripple noise power supply unit.

The unit itself is an interesting design with a range of touch controls, backlit knobs and buttons and a nice colour LED screen. Connectivity at the rear boasts 4 USB ports for control devices, sturdy combo audio outputs and and SD card slot on the side for loading and saving data. The webpage makes mention of a MIDI socket, but this doesn’t appear in the images provided by the company. However, after speaking with Cameron Jones, he has confirmed to me that there will be two 3.5mm Type A TRS MIDI ports to the left of the headphone socket. A VESA compliant mounting point is built into the base of the unit for handy positioning on a suitable stand.

SYNCLAVIER REGEN SCREEN

Synclavier have yet to release any official video of their own but renowned ‘Youtuber’ Loopop has clearly had early access and has created one of his thorough and entertaining video review/tutorials for the Regen.

Visitors to Synthplex 2022 can get hands on with the Synclavier Regen as they have a stand there all weekend, October 28th to 30th!

Regen is available now to pre-order from Synclavier’s website for £2196/$2499 inc VAT.