Erica Synths

Steampipe, A Physical Modeling synthesizer by Erica Synths is now available

Originally revealed at Superbooth 23, the Erica Synths Steampipe is a desktop synthesizer that models wind and string instruments, featuring hands-on control. It is now available for purchase.

The Steampipe is a unique physical modelling synthesizer that creates sound by closely mimicking the operation of wind instruments. Developed by Erica Synths, a renowned Latvian company specializing in high-quality modular synthesizers, drum machines, and Eurorack modules. This synth “Steampipe” was revealed at Superbooth 23 in partnership with 112. dB. This exceptional musical instrument is designed to generate a wide range of soundscapes, including wind instruments, strings, pipe organs, effects, and more. It comprises three key sections: STEAM, PIPE, and REVERBERATOR, each playing a vital role in crafting sounds with remarkable depth and dimension.

The STEAM section acts like the lungs and mouth of a musician, featuring a generator that produces a flow of “steam” or air. The envelope controls the force with which the steam is emitted, while the DC/Noise component simulates the sound of blowing air. Notably, the DC/Noise can be adjusted or replaced by an external audio source for added versatility. The PIPE section functions similarly to a flute, shaping the tune produced by the steam. A push-in feedback mechanism reflects the steam to create tone, while a delay box subsection allows for tuning and shaping alterations. To enhance ambience and depth, the REVERBERATOR adds a sense of space to the sound. Although the Steampipe is primarily geared towards wind MIDI controllers, it is also compatible with standard MIDI keyboards. Now take a look at some of its features.

Features:

The Steampipe is an 8-voice polyphonic synthesizer that does not use conventional oscillators. Instead, it simulates the way sound is produced in wind and string instruments, allowing for a wide variety of sounds. The Steampipe is optimized for performance with wind MIDI controllers but is also compatible with any MIDI keyboard. It produces rich and organic overtones, and it comes with a selection of excellent presets. This versatile instrument enables nuanced sonic exploration, creating soundscapes that range from delicate wisps of cloud to fairground band organs, and from the industrial horns of the railroad to massive, otherworldly ambiences.

8-voice polyphony
Physical modelling engine with 32 adjustable parameters
5 assignable LFOs with delay and sync
Extensive modulation matrix with MIDI controller-specific configurations
64 factory presets and 192 user preset memory
Preset export and import via USB
DIN5 MIDI Input
MIDI Thru/Out
All parameters are MIDI CC controllable
Stereo line level output
Headphone output
Dimensions:45.5cm x 27cm x 7cm
Weight: 3kg

On the back, there is a power on/off switch, a power supply input, a stereo output, a headphone socket, MIDI in/out ports, a USB connection, a sustain pedal support, and an audio input. But it lacks a USB host port.

Overall, the Steampipe excels at producing organic and rich overtones, featuring impressive presets that enable users to create a diverse array of sounds—from wispy clouds to industrial horns—capable of producing massive, otherworldly ambiences.

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