by Rob Puricelli | 4,3 / 5,0 | Approximate reading time: 3 Minutes
Synclavier Regen

Synclavier Regen  ·  Source: Synclavier

Synclavier Regen

Synclavier Regen  ·  Source: Synclavier

Synclavier Regen

Synclavier Regen  ·  Source: Synclavier

Synclavier Regen

Synclavier Regen  ·  Source: Synclavier

Synclavier Regen

Synclavier Regen  ·  Source: Synclavier

Synclavier Regen

Synclavier Regen  ·  Source: Synclavier

Synclavier Regen

Synclavier Regen  ·  Source: Synclavier

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Now available for immediate dispatch, 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 its sonic palette.

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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 Considered by most to be ‘unobtanium’, they soon became out of date as many manufacturers started to make smaller and cheaper tools that soon began to exceed what the New England Digital Synclavier could do.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.

Synclavier Regen

Synclavier Regen

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

Synclavier Regen

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

Synclavier Regen

Regen is available now to purchase directly from Synclavier’s website for £2005/$2499 ex. local sales taxes and import duties. Several regional distributers are available around the world. Please check Synclavier’s website for more information.

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Enjoy some vintage Synclavier II action from 1984…

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Image Sources:
  • Synclavier Regen: Synclavier
  • Synclavier Regen: Synclavier
  • Synclavier Regen: Synclavier
Synclavier Regen

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3 responses to “The Synclavier name returns with digital Regen desktop synth”

    dr-w says:
    0

    such a lovely synth!
    #musthave!
    perfect for filmmusic.
    <3

    dbms says:
    1

    I think the sound is very unique, but the price is high. If a cheaper version is released, I might consider buying it.

      Jeremy says:
      0

      Agreed. I’ve been in the presence of a behemoth Synclavier, including mainframe, loud cooling fans, huge floppies, etc. It was pretty amazing and nostalgic. A couple dudes picked one up from Berklee for $4500. It was NEVER used and sat in storage at the college for eons. Would I shell out $$$ for the Regen? No. Nifty format, sounds are okay if you desire nostalgia and want to write music for a regen NES.

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