Mode Machines SL-1 Synthlab Synthesizer “Like A Small Synthesizer Laboratory”

Mode Machines SynthLab SL1 synthesizer

The Mode Machines Synthlab is a new boutique analog subtractive synthesizer. According to Mode Machines, the design follows early synths of the 70’s and the synth features a filter similar to early Moog synthesizers.

The Synthlab has a built in MIDI interface to make it easy to use in a MIDI studio setup. The Synthlab also has a built in MIDI-TO-CV/GATE interface , though. Mode Machines describes the sound as ” true, pure and very experimental like a smal synthesizer laboratory”, hence the name Synthlab

The setup of the SL-1 is straightforward, if you have worked with other analog synthesizers.

Every parameter has its own pot for controlling and playing with the modulation and everything can be controlled manually in real-time. The controls of the modules are diveded into groups on the faceplate.

Here’s a little Synthlab synth porn:

Features:

  • 2 x VCO´s ( 2 waveforms – saw & pulse)
  • 1 x VCF (low pass filter 24dB – Moog cascade)
  • 1 x VCA
  • 1 x Noise
  • 1 x Ringmodulator
  • 1 x Suboscillator (-2 octaves)
  • 2 x LFO (various waveforms and routings)
  • 2 x ENV (ADSR for the VCA and AD for the VCF)
  • MIDI-CV-Interface with 2 x CV and GATE
  • Audio IN
  • Audio OUT
  • MIDI IN/THRU
  • External PSU included

Technical specification

  • POWER: 18V AC 1000mA (PSU included)
  • Dimensions: 29.8 cm * 16.5 cm * 6 cm (11.73″ * 6.5″ * 2.36″)
    (with packaging: 36.5 cm * 23 cm * 10 cm (14.37″ * 9.06″ * 3.94″))
  • Weight: 1.5 kg (3.31 lb)
    (with packaging: 2.1 kg (4.63 lb))

The Mode Machines Synthlab SL1 is expected to be available in March, for $799.

4 thoughts on “Mode Machines SL-1 Synthlab Synthesizer “Like A Small Synthesizer Laboratory”

  1. Looks pretty cool but I'd rather know how it *sounds*.

    Maybe I'm spoilt or have overly high expectations but I really do expect and desire patchability on things like this these days.

  2. Second LFO, Ring Mod, Sub Osc and discretee circuitry sets this apart from Manu competitors.
    Audio In is very importante too.
    This or a Moog Phatty?

  3. Second LFO, Ring Mod, Sub Osc and discretee circuitry sets this apart from Manu competitors.
    Audio In is “very importante” too.
    I’m between this or a Moog Phatty.

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