The newest Modal Electronics synthesizer is the Cobalt5S, which offers five true polyphonic voices, two separate algorithm groups, and up to eight oscillators per voice.
The 37-note keyboard has polyphonic aftertouch as well as MPE support. If you're familiar with the Cobalt8, you'll know largely what to expect from the Cobalt5S's architecture. It has the same self-oscillating morphable ladder filter and myriad features that, as Modal Electronics puts it, goes beyond analog.
Where the Cobalt5S differs is in its five voices (versus eight) more-portable size, along with the addition of the XYZ controller, a pressure-sensitive pad that you can use for expression and effects. While it has fewer effects than its larger siblings, the chorus effects have been entirely reworked. And it's all powered over USB, meaning you can use it with a portable battery.
Our host Fess got to sit down with Jim High from Modal Electronics to discuss the new Cobalt5S, make patches, and jam out. Check out the video above to learn more. The new Cobalt5S is available for $449 USD on Reverb now.