Twisted Electrons shared this preview of FLEXFM, a new groovebox that they say ‘feels like an instrument’.

FLEXFM is a hardware groovebox, built around eight independent tracks that combine four-operator synthesis, sampling and individual analog filters.

Its sound engines cover everything from classic waveforms and wavetables to noise, vocal tones, user-drawn waveforms and imported samples.

A central feature is the joystick, which can morph between sound snapshots, change the relationships between FM, AM and ring-modulation operators, or move between prepared pattern variations.

The instrument also combines extensive modulation with an onboard sequencer, sampling tools, effects and USB multitrack audio, aiming to support complete hardware-based productions without requiring a computer.

Features:

• Eight independent tracks combine synthesis, sampling and sequencing.
• Each track uses four operators, with FM, AM and ring modulation available for shaping sounds.
• Sound sources include classic waveforms, wavetables, vocal tones, noise, user-drawn waves and samples.
  Oscillator sync adds another option for shaping digital timbres.
• Three joystick-controlled morphing modes move between sound snapshots, synthesis algorithms and pattern variations.
• Each voice has its own multimode analog filter, with digital filtering options including ORACLE and CROQUETTE.
• Four LFOs per voice provide modulation, with selectable or drawable waveforms, synchronization and multiple destinations.
• Envelopes, velocity response, keyboard tracking and filter drive add further control over the sound.
• The joystick also works as a piano-roll cursor for note entry, velocity and probability editing, and live performance gestures.
• The sequencer provides 16 patterns of up to 128 steps, with independent track lengths and rates.
• Sequencing features include step locks, swing, probability, arpeggiation, conditional steps and overlapping notes.
• POLY, MONO, CHORD and SYNC modes offer different ways to organize the four operators and play notes.
• Song parts, scenes and key changes support longer arrangements, while tempoFlex curves can alter rhythmic motion.
• Sampling features include recording from the audio input, WAV import, slicing, repitching, reverse playback and layering.
• A 12-pad drum kit and dynamic piezo pad provide hands-on access to sampled and synthesized percussion.
• Built-in effects include plate reverb, characterful delay and compression.
• Eight individual mono voice outputs, stereo main outputs, a headphone output and mono input support hardware studio routing.
• USB provides MIDI connectivity and multitrack audio, allowing all eight dry voices to be recorded separately into a DAW.
• The FLEXIO plug-in supports multitrack recording and mixing, while the editor offers pattern editing, patch management and MIDI clip transfer.

Pricing & Availability:

FLEXFM is available to preorder for $1,146 USD, with shipping expected by the end of 2026.