Look quickly and it might seem that Modal Electronics' new Cobalt8 is simply the Argon8 in a blue colorway, but the Cobalt8 contains a powerful new synth engine.
Modal's latest is an eight-voice polyphonic synth, powered by what the company calls its "virtual-analogue" engine, which offers two groups of up to four digital oscillators each creating analog-style sounds.
As the company writes, the Cobalt8's oscillators offer "34 unique complex algorithms like Sync, Ring Modulation, Waveform Morphing, and many more are available to increase the creative options for new-generation synth sounds." There are more than 300 preset patches for users to explore. Players can also switch to a monophonic play mode, which can combine up to 64 oscillators for one massive sound.
The other defining feature of the Cobalt8 is its newly designed filter. The "self-oscillating 4-Pole Morphable Ladder Filter with Resonance injects more warmth and bite," according to Modal. The synth also includes a 512-note step sequencer and 32-step programmable arpeggiator.
Like the Argon8—which, in both 37-key keyboard, 61-key keyboard, and module form, is shaping up to be one of 2020's best-selling synths—the Cobalt8 offers easy playability, dependability, and a reasonable price for the high-quality build and features. With 37 full-size keys and steel-and-aluminum chassis, the Cobalt8 will retail for $749.99 USD, and will begin shipping in November.
Check back for availability on Reverb soon. Or click here to add the Cobalt8 to your Feed and be notified as soon as it's available.