2025 NAMM Show: Donner has announced that the L1 synthesizer – a unique new synth that has a removable keyboard – is now available to pre-order.
The Donner L1 is a new design, but builds on the sound architecture of the Roland SH-101. It’s the first of their Essential Synth Series, and has two sections that connect with magnets – a synth module, and a keyboard:
Here are the features of the two components:
- Donner Essential L1 Synthesizer:
- 3340 VCO, outputs multiple waveforms
- 3109 VCF & 662 VCA for most faithful recreation in sound wise
- Extra envelope as modulation source, to enhance the possibility in sound
- Drone mode for ambient type of sound
- Powerful and easy-to-use step sequencer
- Wide variety connections: 1)cv/gate out 2)sync i/o 3)external audio i
- Optional magnetic keyboard (KB-32M)
- Donner KB-32M Keyboard
- Synth-Action Keyboard – 32-key spring-loaded keyboard provides a better tactile feel and faster rebound speed.
- Four Velocity Curves with Adjustable Sensitivity – Three levels of sensitivity customization to match your playing style.
- Intuitive One-Touch Settings (OLED Display) – (Almost) all settings can be easily adjusted via the SHIFT key combination and OLED graphical display. Simple, quick, and user-friendly.
- Magnetic Connector for Essential Synth Series – Snap2Connect (S2C) interface for seamless integration.
- MIDI Keyboard Functionality – Connect to your computer or smartphone to use as a MIDI controller.
- Software Bundle – Includes Cubase and Melodics to support your creative journey.
Pricing and Availability:
The Donner L1 is available to preorder now, with the following pricing:
- $237.99 for the synth
- $109.99 for the keyboard
- $329 for the combo
Radio Shack quality design, every product from this manufacturer.
Radio Schack actually had some real gems at low prices so I think this will be OK almost seems to have some connection with Behringer…
You could say the same about the SH-101. I’m a huge fan of that sound (and so interested in this) but it’s quite ugly and plasticky. This looks cheap and basic, but I’m OK with that if it sounds nice.
Radio Shack had a partnership with Moog that resulted in the Realistic Concertmate MG-1, so I think your Radio Shack quality statement is sorely lacking history
I have a Radio Shack SSM-1850 which has been used almost daily for over 30 years and still works flawlessly. Try to know things before talking about them.
Absolutely awesome that it’s available both as a module or with a keyboard. I wish all synth manufacturers did this. I personally don’t need any more low quality keys. But sound modules, any day!
Single-oscillator synths bore the pee out of me. The SH-101 just made me hungry for something with a more musical voice. It sounds like someone jabbing at a hamster with a stick, squeee. I don’t fault beginners for simply beginning, but a 2nd oscillator is a real game-changer. I hope Donner will release a synth that’s just a notch further up the line.
time for a party! a Donner Party!
I have the little Donner bass and it is well beyond “Radio Shack quality”.
it’s a neat idea but I kind of have all the features and more in the roland s-1 for cheaper so I don’t see myself running out to get it even though it is cool.
The price is right and I like this modernized Chinese design
They should have named it Léitíngwànjun de huihuáng héchéng qì