Buchla and Friends 2025: Sound Workshop Quord is a new 4-oscillator drone Synthesizer from the developer of the Wiggler expressive synth.
In July 2024, Sound Workshop unveiled its new project, Quoard, a unique drone synth for discovering harmonies. Since then, much has happened, particularly in the design of the Quord.
Chris showcased the final version at the Buchla & Friends 2025 event, which is significantly narrower and longer than the prototype/beta. Looks lovely to me.
In addition to the new layout, it has a rhythm circuit section with an LFO using sine and sawtooth shapes to modulate the filter cutoff. The LFO can also be routed into the audio mix for asymmetrical distortion.
You can now pre-order the Sound Workshop Quord for $399. The first batch is limited to 40 units, and it will be shipped in April 2025.
Article From July 26, 2024
Chris from Sound Workshop has already given me two demos of his new Wiggler Synthesizer: first, in 2023, in early prototype status, and then this year, in a beta.
In addition to the Wiggler, Sound Workshop is working on a new, lovely drone Synthesizer project.
Sound Workshop Quord
Quord is a new drone Synthesizer consisting of four sawtooth waves, a four-slider mixer, a filter, and a distortion.
Chris of Sound Workshop describes Quord as a harmony exploration machine. He wanted to build an instrumentthat couldo quickly create harmonies without thinking about specific letters (C, D,etc..).
A notable aspect of this product is its oscillators and mixer sliders, which enable smooth interaction with the oscillators, including pitch adjustments. Each oscillator can be played and modified individually, providing flexibility. The pitch range covers bass to alto, allowing for accurate control throughout the slider’s movement, as noted by Chris.
Sound Workshop Quord has an interesting filter design. It is based on an old Buchla design with a resonance inspired by the MS-20. It offers a 2-pole mode for more spicier sounds and a 4-pole option for darker and mellower timbres.
Plus, you can crank up the resonance and create a self-oscillating fifth voice for Quord. Further, the connection side is on the top of the unit. You will find an audio output and CV inputs for the pitch and filter here. Sound Workshop has some videos online where he goes into the concept in more detail.
First Impression
At first glance, it is a lovely drone synth with a simple but fascinating concept. I’m looking forward to the final version.
Sound Workshop Quord will be available in late Summer (not earlier than August)/autumn—price TBA.
More information here: Sound Workshop
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