Zynthian v5: the Raspberry Pi and Linux-based hardware plugin host goes in the next round with a completely redesigned hardware.
VST plugins belong on “in-the-box” computer systems and not in DAWless setups. Not necessarily, there have been many attempts to make VSTs standalone using hardware hosts. Many of these projects like the V-Machine… failed because of the fast pace, licenses, etc. A Serum or Pigments as hardware synths would be excellent.
But one project remained. This is the Zynthian. Unlike the other hosts, the developers focus on Linux operation and made it a community-driven project, so 100% open-source. The lovely project now continues with the Zynthian v5, with an all-new hardware design.
Zynthian v5
The new hardware v5 comes with a completely new look. It reminds me of the Akai MPC Live all-black look. The hardware is still based on the Raspberry Pi platform, currently on a Raspi 4. However, it is 100% backward compatible with older kits. So you can buy the new hardware and install your existing v1 to v4 system on it.
Zynathian v5 comes with a new much-bigger 5-inch capacitive multi-touch display, 20 push buttons with RGB LED feedback on the left side, and 4 rotary encoders with push switches. Looks much nicer and more appealing than the v4 in my opinion. According to the developers, it features a black anodized aluminum case and mechanized aluminum knobs.
Not only the user interface got a boost in version 5 but also the I/O has also increased. Starting on the left, you have a power supply input with input voltages from 9 to 48v with a power switch, a USB type B device port, an ethernet RJ-45 socket with built-in WiFi, and four USB host type A ports. So you can connect your favorite MIDI controllers without detouring.
Then, it offers a full MIDI interface with DIN-5 MIDI input, output, and thru. Thanks for no mini jacks. Audio side, it hosts sockets for two TRS balanced audio outputs, a stereo TRS headphone, and two balanced audio inputs. The latter have variable gain pre-amp (-12 to 32dB) and an input impedance of 20 KΩ. That sounds like a solid upgrade.
Zynthian v5 users also benefit from a new passive cooling system that avoids fans and dust while allowing the RPi4 to work 25% faster. There is also an aluminum thermal bridge that conducts heat from the RPi4 to the aluminum case that acts as a huge heat sink.
And it looks like the developers are also working on a Eurorack version. Here is a picture of the prototype.
Unchanged Software
The software core stays the same in the Zynthian v5. It’s based on GNU-Linux and comes with a customized engine and user interface. Like the predecessor, it’s a super powerful multi-engine and multi-timbral Synthesizer/sound workstation. You can create up to 16 chains with various MIDI FXs, synths, and FXs. There is also a built-in audio mixer, master FX, and more.
Zynthian ships with over 30 synth engines based on free Linux plugins. It also includes tons of effects like filters, reverbs, delays, and more. More precisely over 500. If that’s not enough, you can alternatively load your own LV2 Linux plugin. However, these must be free and not be tied to a licensing system.
Further, you have a sample playback engine with Soundfont support (SF2, SF3, SFZ & GIG). The Zynthian engine also includes arpeggiators, chorder, LFOs, step sequencer, and a launch grid turning it into a groovebox. There is also a live looping sampler and the option for keyboard splitting and more, so perfect for live performances.
First Impression
Big big like for this project. I’ve been following it for a long time and am excited for this next big leap. I’m looking forward to the first videos where you can see it in action. I’m sure the new design will attract more people who want to deal with this project. Now it has an excellent desktop synth size.
Zynthian v5 is available now for 490€ + VAT excluding the Raspberry Pi and with the Raspi 4 (4GB) for 570€ + VAT.
More information here: dev website
will the software works on rapsberry pi, without all the additional components?
don’t know as I don’t have as Raspi or the Zynthian
Most definitely. They always have a “DIY” version and the latest interface is made in such a way that it works with touchscreen only.
You only need a Raspberry Pi (4 is recommended) and connect it via HDMI to a display and control it with USB keyboard/mouse.
But of course for professional use you should extend with high quality Audio board and proper Connectors.
You find one (Main Board V5) for 210€ in Zynthian shop.