In our recent interview with Vlad Kreimer, the maker of the cult Russian synth LYRA-8 hinted at an upcoming experimental drum machine. Today, on the SOMA website, Vlad published a teaser video and the specifications of this semi-modular beat machine, the PULSAR-23.
Here’s the video (this is just a prototype – no enclosure or panel yet, so you’ll have to use your imagination):
In Vlad’s words, PULSAR-23 is an organismic drum machine with a semi-modular structure and 23 independent modules:
– 4 drum channels: Bass drum, Bass\Percussion, Snare drum, Cymbals\Hi-Hat
– 4 envelope generators with the unique ability to generate a sustain for the drum channels, turning them into noise\drone synthesizers.
– 4 independent loop recorders with the option for individual clocking.
– Clock generator with an array of dividers as a very powerful tool for rhythm synthesis.
– Wide range LFO (0.1 – 5000Hz) with variable waveform.
– Shaos – a unique pseudo-random generator based on shift registers with 4 independent outputs, sample and hold and other cool features.
– FX processor with CV control incl. CV control of the entire DSP’s sample rate.
– Distortion.
– 2 CV-controlled gates.
– 2 CV-controlled VCAs.
– 2 controllable inverters.
Also, it has MIDI control and synchronization and a lot of smaller modules such as 3 assignable attenuators and 2 dynamic CV sensors for CV generation etc.
In general, there are 52 knobs, 11 switches and over 100 inputs and outputs for patching, Eurorack integration, external mixing and processing, live circuit bending!
Price and Availability
Price has not been decided yet but it should be in the 1200-1500 Euro range. The expected date of release is autumn\winter 2018\19.
To read more about PULSAR-23 and pre-order yours, visit the SOMA website.
