polyUAnalog, a DIY open-source polyphonic analog Synthesizer

[satya]

https://github.com/PhysicsDptAngers/polyUAnalog/

The polyUAnalog is a new DIY open-source Synthesizer displayed last week at SynthFest France 2024. The developers, Matthieu and Dominique, finished the code for it shortly before the event started, so it wasn’t in 100% perfect condition; it was more of a working prototype.

The core uses a mix of analog and digital components. The version on display had ten analog voices, each based on the AS3397 synth voice chip, known from the Oberheim Matrix 1000. The chip is ideal for synth projects as it offers an entire synth voice on the chip, including two analog oscillators, a filter, and VCA.

Interestingly, you can freely configure the number of voices. You can create an analog synth with 10, 20, or more voices. It’s also possible to build just a mono synth out of the project. According to the developer, the maximum voice is estimated to be 120 voices.

Then, the digital part is carried out by a Raspberry Pi located on each voice. This tunes the voices so that they are always in tune. Plus, it generates LFOs, envelopes, or any additional digital synthesis. In the SFF 2024 prototype, the Raspi also generated a noise generator. 

They are currently developing additional board elements that can, for example, host digital effects. Here is the video from SynthFest France 2024.