Puremagnetik Etches: Portable Touch Synthesizer & Looper

Introducing Puremagnetik Etches

Puremagnetik, known for its innovative software instruments and effects, has officially unveiled its first hardware synthesizer, Etches. This portable, touch-sensitive loopscape synthesizer marks a significant step for the company. It moves Puremagnetik into physical instruments, following a history of acclaimed software releases and two successful pedals. Etches functions as a dynamic soundscape palette. It enables musicians to sketch melodic sections, layer complex sounds, and construct evolving sonic tapestries. It promises an intuitive and immediate playing experience, emphasizing performance over intricate menu diving.

Innovative Design & Core Concept

The design philosophy behind Etches is distinctly open and experimental. Built from two PCBs joined by standoffs, this instrument embraces a raw, exposed aesthetic. This approach not only contributes to its unique visual identity but also helps to keep the product affordable. Etches draws inspiration from classic synthesis techniques and tape music traditions. It integrates a complex oscillator, a versatile splice recorder, and sophisticated built-in space processing. Consequently, users can effortlessly transition between cinematic washes, percussive elements, and ambient textures that are smoothly processed.

Deep Sound Layering with Splice Recorder

At the heart of Etches lies a monophonic voice generator, coupled with an 80-second multi-splice recorder that supports overdubbing. This powerful combination allows users to layer individual sounds into much larger, more intricate compositions. Furthermore, an internal LFO continually modulates the start and end points of each splice, introducing subtle or dramatic variations in the playback. This behavior, initially explored in Puremagnetik’s LAPS and JOTS pedals, enhances the dynamic potential of the recorded loops. Moreover, the instrument includes a tape-style delay and a rich stereo space processor, providing ample tools for sonic exploration.

Performance-Oriented Playability

Etches is engineered for direct, hands-on performance. Every control is readily accessible on the surface, ensuring that every gesture translates immediately into audible changes. There are no traditional envelopes or filters; instead, players shape the timbre actively as they interact with the device. For instance, four articulation pads offer precise control over contour, timbre-shaping, and animation. Additionally, the synthesizer features a musical overdrive with soft clipping. To further enhance playability, users can select a root note. They can then choose from twelve different scales and modes, ensuring the pads remain locked to the chosen key. This thoughtful design makes playing a ‘wrong’ note incredibly difficult. Musicians can thus concentrate fully on phrasing and musical expression, rather than precise finger placement.

Features

• Four articulation pads that control contour, timbre-shaping and animation
• Musical overdrive with soft clipping
• 80-second multi-splice recorder for capturing ideas and layering sounds
• Stereo space processor with tape-style delay and a pristine reverb.
• Stereo output
• Runs on a standard Boss-style 9V power supply

Price
Pre-order: 350.00 USD

Availability and Considerations

The first batch of Etches is expected to ship in early June, making it an exciting prospect for electronic music producers and sound designers. However, due to its open PCB construction, Puremagnetik advises handling the instrument with care, recommending a padded case for transport. Also, it’s important to note that a standard Boss-style 9V power supply (center-negative) is required. A 1/8″ (3.5mm) stereo output cable (Y-splitter or TRS-to-dual-TS) is also needed. Both are sold separately. Despite these minor considerations, Etches stands out as an innovative and expressive tool for creating immersive soundscapes and intricate loop-based music.

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