Arturia has just announced the release of their latest flagship synthesizer, the PolyBrute 12. Building upon the success of the original PolyBrute, this new iteration boasts an impressive 12 voices of polyphony, a groundbreaking new keybed, and a host of other features that are sure to inspire sound designers and performers alike.
The Next Generation Keybed with FullTouch Technology
One of the most exciting additions to the PolyBrute 12 is its revolutionary new keybed, which features Arturia’s proprietary FullTouch technology. This 3-mode poly aftertouch system allows for an unprecedented level of expression and control.
The keys trigger at the slightest touch, and the entire keyspan provides modulation, allowing for aftertouch expression across the full range of key movement. Users can select between three distinct modes:
- Classic Monophonic aftertouch mode
- Polyphonic aftertouch
- FullTouch Modes
This powerful expressivity ranges from delicate to utterly dynamic, opening up new dimensions of sound shaping and performance possibilities.
12-Voice Polyphony for Lush Soundscapes
With 12 voices of polyphony, the PolyBrute 12 empowers musicians to create complex, lush harmonic structures, dynamic sonic layering, and split keyboard performances. Each hand and finger can command a unique aftertouch input, enabling never-before-heard compositional textures.
Morphing and Multi-Axis Control
The PolyBrute 12’s innovative Morphée controller allows users to map the X and Y touch axes, plus the Z pressure axis, to any destination parameters available in the modulation matrix. This multi-dimensional control brings a new form of expression to sound design and performance.
Deep Modulation Matrix
At the heart of the PolyBrute 12’s immense sonic potential is its powerful modulation matrix. With 32 destinations and up to 96 modulation routes, users can create their own unique web of modulators and dive deeper into sound design than ever before.
The matrix itself is laid out as an intuitive 8×12 grid, providing instant access to a vast array of routing possibilities.
Presets, Sequencing, and More
The PolyBrute 12 offers instant access to 768 preset slots, with hundreds of additional slots for user creations. These include exclusive patches crafted by some of the world’s greatest sound designers.
The onboard sequencer provides a tactile, visual interface for creating dynamic polyphonic sequences, arpeggios, parameter motion recording, and more. Users can even randomize their sequences or arpeggios with the spice, dice, and ratcheting functions.
Expressive Performance Controls
In addition to the groundbreaking keybed, the PolyBrute 12 features a ribbon controller positioned directly above the keys. This can be assigned to any modulation destination, allowing for smooth, expressive glides up and down the frequency spectrum.
The synth also boasts bi-timbral presets, enabling the creation of rich, dynamic sounds that evolve and morph between two distinct states.
Seamless DAW Integration with PolyBrute Connect
PolyBrute Connect is a standalone application and plugin that provides a like-for-like virtual interface of the PolyBrute 12’s front panel. This allows for deep, real-time integration between the hardware and a user’s DAW.
With PolyBrute Connect, users can easily manage patches, import new presets and sound banks, and have every parameter change mirrored between the synth and software. This seamless integration makes the PolyBrute 12 a powerful addition to any studio or live rig.
Pricing and Availability
The Arturia PolyBrute 12 will soon be available from authorized Arturia dealers, such as Thomann for $/€3999.
A Personal Take on the Arturia PolyBrute 12
As someone who has been fascinated by synthesizers for years, I find the PolyBrute 12 to be an incredibly exciting release.
The combination of the FullTouch keybed, extensive modulation possibilities, and seamless DAW integration put this instrument feel high on my “must-check” list. To me, the PolyBrute 12 looks like a “serious” instrument to form a strong bond with, like you would do with a piano, a violin, or any other professional instrument.
I can’t wait to get my hands on one and explore the vast sonic landscapes it promises to unlock. From delicate, shimmering pads to gritty, complex basslines, I have a feeling the PolyBrute 12 will quickly become an indispensable tool in the creative arsenal of many synth players.
Arturia has once again demonstrated their commitment to pushing the boundaries of analog synthesis, and I believe the PolyBrute 12 will inspire a new generation of musicians and producers to dive deeper into the world of sound design and electronic music production. Yes, I hear you, the PolyBrute 12 is not cheap, but again, we’re talking of a professional instrument and we should consider its price accordingly.
Visit the Arturia Polybrute 12 web page to learn more.
