Developer Joshua W Watson has launched a Kickstarter project to fund production of the Shrolca synthesizer, a new design that’s based on the retired Mutable Instruments Shruthi synthesizer, but in a format closer to that of the Korg Volca line.
Here’s the official intro video:
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1379201970/shrolca-digital-wavecycle-synthesizer/description#
Here’s what he has to say about the Shrolca synth:
The Shrolca is one of the most powerful synthesizers for it’s size made today.
The foundation is the Mutable Instrument’s Shruthi. The Shruthi has a powerful sound engine and analog filter. This offering is no different. It has the same Digital wavecycle oscillators and sequencers and modulation matrix with a classic transistor ladder 24dB voltage controlled filter.
Our other inspiration was the popular Korg line of mini synthesizers, the Volca series.
We have included a touch activated MIDI keyboard that makes performances in the closet fun! The prototype featured on this campaign page has a wooden box but, the production unit will have a machined aluminum body that is less than an inch deep.
The keyboard, sequencer and arp can all transmit midi data to the midi output. Please see videos below for rundown of options and info on some of the many capabilities of the synth.
Other improvements included in the production unit will be: thicker flat black coating to the faceplate, thicker solder for the touchplates, and higher quality materials used for the faceplate. There will also be a eurorack mounting frame with cv i/o available as a separate accessory.
Pricing and Availability
Shrolca production is being funded via a Kickstarter campaign, and it is available to backers for US $250.
Big Shruthi fan! have two in my live set up, and a polivoks filter version for other things. I would dive right into this except the top mounted midi/audio/power connectors are something I’d be afraid of knocking constantly…cos im a clutz during live shows. Otherwise I dig the form factor/overall concept. More Shruthi for everyone is a good thing i think!
Worst name ever.
It’s interesting, but I’d quite like to see the shruthi synth engine ported over to a more up-to-date platform; I believe most, if not all, of the newer Mutable instruments modules use the STM32F uC, while the shruthi is based around an 8bit AVR; porting it across should be achievable, and would open up some more options. Also, “thicker solder for the touchplates”; probably shouldn’t be using solder for the touchplates