Gearank

Gearank High Notes

• 2021.04: Highest Rated Keyboard Synth Under $1000.
• 2020.03: Highest Rated Keyboard Synth Under $1000.

Overview

Moog is undeniably the brand to beat when it comes to analog synths, and the Grandmother, being the best rated synth in the sub $1000 price range, helps keep them at the top.

This semi-modular monophonic synth features 2 oscillators, 4-pole ladder filter and 1-pole highpass filter. Synth enthusiasts will enjoy its 41 patch points, which is the selling point for analog synths.

For controls, the Grandmother houses a 32-key Fatar keybed with velocity sensitivity.

Another important feature is its built-in spring reverb, that works on both the internally synthesized sounds or external sounds.

It also houses a sequencer/arpeggiator with 3 preset locations, carrying up to 256 notes.

Specifications

• Polyphony: Monophonic
• Keys: 32-Key Fatar with Velocity Sensitivity
• Oscillator: 2 x Analog VCO, White Noise Generator
• Filter: 1 x Analog LFO with Audio
• Envelope: 1 x ADSR
• LFO: 1 x Analog LFO with Audio (triangle, sawtooth, square)
• Effects: Spring Reverb
• Additional Controllers: Mod Wheel, Pitchbend Wheel, Variable Glide
• Step Sequencer: 3 sequences, 256-steps
• Audio Input: 1 x 1/4" (instrument in), 1 x 1/8" (reverb in)
• Audio Output: 1 x 1/4" (main/headphones), 1 x 1/8" (reverb out), 1 x 1/8" (eurorack out)
• Other Connectivity: USB (Type B), Clock in, Clock out, Reset in, On/Off in, 41 x Patch Points
• Power: 12V DC 2A power supply (included)
• Dimensions: 5.5" x 23" x 14.25"
• Weight: 16 lbs.

Demo