The ACME Synthworks XP60 is a six-voice polyphonic analog synthesizer that’s based on the architecture and operating logic of the Oberheim Xpander.

Developed by Markus Malik, the XP60 targets the high-end of the synth market, recreating the original’s deep analog architecture and sound, but in a modern 19-inch desktop format.

“The XP60 exists because the Xpander is not just a classic synthesizer, but a fundamentally well-thought-out system whose architecture still deserves to exist in hardware today,” notes Malik.

The Oberheim Xpander was introduced in 1984, and is still seen as one of the most flexible synthesizers of all time.  Each voice of the Xpander had two VCOs each, with a dedicated level VCA and waveshape mixing, a 15-mode filter, two output VCAs, seven-position panning control, five LFOs, five envelope generators, a lag processor, four ramp generators, and three tracking generators. In addition to MIDI, the Xpander could also be controlled via six CV and Gate inputs.

The XP60 uses two analog oscillators per voice and a multimode filter with 15 modes. Its original-style dual-processor architecture is designed to preserve the instrument’s operating behavior, and the manufacturer states that it is compatible with Xplorer, a SysEx editor for the Xpander.

Features:

• Six-voice polyphonic analog architecture inspired by the Oberheim Xpander.
• Two analog voltage-controlled oscillators per voice.
• Multimode analog filter with 15 modes.
• Signal path centered on the AS3372, tuned toward the character of later Rev D instruments.
• Extensive modulation system based on the original Xpander concept.
• Five LFOs and five envelopes per voice, according to published product coverage.
• Turbo Mode increases the speed of LFOs, lag processors, and envelopes by approximately 50%.
• Original-style page-based programming workflow.
• Three display sections, with OLED, VFD, or LCD configurations.
• Modern switches and tactile encoders for navigating the synthesis architecture.
• Original-style dual-processor architecture.
• Compatibility with Xplorer, the Xpander SysEx editor.
• Six individual voice outputs.
• CV and Gate inputs for each voice.
• Five-pin MIDI In, Out, and Thru.
• Stereo or mono line outputs, plus a headphone output.
• Dedicated headphone amplifier with four gain settings.
• Trigger and pedal inputs.
• Compact desktop enclosure measuring 19 inches wide.
• Dark and creamy white enclosure options.

Pricing & Availability:

ACME Synthworks has opened preorders for the XP60. , with pricing starting around €2,699 and shipping expected to start later this month.