Erica Synths has announced the discontinuation of its epic analog matrix Synthesizer SYNTRX and the release of the final batch with 300 units at a reduced price.
With the SYNTRX, Erica Synths from Latvia presented one of the most experimental synthesizers in recent years. However, the idea is not completely new. Most of the design and user interface was taken from the legendary EMS Synthi AKS. Vintage on the outside, but completely new on the inside. Here they use their own Erica Synth analog technology giving the SYNTRX a different, unique sound character.
Plus, a highlight for me, they introduced the pin matrix into the modern by making it digital and storable. It sounds like a catchy marketing message, but for me the SYNTRX is an epic analog Synthesizer with an operating concept that remains modern and innovative even after 50 years. An instrument that challenges musicians to come up with new sound ideas.
Today the sad news that the production of the SYNTRX has been stopped. The last 300 units have rolled off the line and are now available at a reduced price. Erica Synths says:
Since its beginnings, Erica Synths has promoted experimental electronic music and has developed instruments that enable musicians to unleash their creativity.
When it comes to standalone instruments, we think, one of most encouraging instruments in experimental music was Synthi AKS, so we teamed up with engineers from Riga Technical University to develop a Synthesizer with a user interface that challenges conventional wisdom in a sound design. We believe, it will inspire users to explore the sonic universe and travel to previously undiscovered audible realms.
Erica Synths SYNTRX
The feature set of the EMS SYNTHI AKS and SYNTRX are very similar but not the sound.
- 3 highly accurate VCOs that track great over 8 octaves
- Octave switch for the VCO1
- Sync option for the VCO2
- Noise generator with “color” filter
- Resonant VCF
- Ring modulator
- Spring reverb
- ASR/AD looping envelope generator
- Joystick controller
- Input amplifier with adjustable gain
- 3 VCAs
- Sample & Hold circuit with an individual clock
- Output signal filter
- Mechanical CV/audio signal level indicator
- MIDI In and MIDI Thru
- Built in speakers
- Dimensions: 309mm x 457mm x 115mm (with the joystick in centre position)
- Weight: 4.05 kg
It’s a shame that Erica Synths is discontinuing its flagship analog Synthesizer so quickly. I would have liked to have seen it on the market longer, but the current times are difficult. It may be due to the current chip shortage. Or maybe due to the upcoming release of the new PERKONS HD-01 drum Synthesizer / drum machine. Either way, it was always a big pleasure to report on this epic Synthesizer. And thank you Erica Synths for realizing the idea.
The final batch of 300 units of the Erica Synths SYNTRX is available now for 2300€ + VAT + shipping. At the time of the article release, retailers still have the old price. Check before ordering the prices.
More information here: Erica Synths
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Another reason for dicontuing this synth could be the emerge of the Behringer VCS clone. Of course both synths are different in many respects (matrix, circuitry) but the Behringer will be presumably cheaper and could cut sales of the SYNTRX.
And the is no reason why there shouldn’t be a reissue if there is a demand and chip supplies have stabilized.