Synth-Werk SW 955-CONTACT

A keyboard is the most used device to connect with electronic instruments like modular synthesizers. Synth-Werk thought about this connection based on the conversation Wendy Carlos had with Bob Moog and Harald Bode. Back in the beginning of the 70´s, when the musical world was merely analog, Wendy Carlos had a very clear view of this connection between the musician, the keyboard and the synthesizer. The challenge was the realization of these ideas based on existing analog technologies. Now, 50 years later, Synth-Werk have the full flexibility of micro controllers and digital technologies to realize what the three geniuses had in mind. In tradition of SYNTH-WERK, we first designed a purely analog keyboard based on the MOOG 952 Keyboard; however, Synth-Werk decided very quickly to do something based on the newest technology and possibilities. As this is purely a control instrument and not primarily involved in the sound stage of a synthesizer, Synth-Werk has created the first instrument of their R.A.3.0 series: the SW 955-CONTACT keyboard.

The fuctionality Synth-Werk offers is more than just a MIDI/CV keyboard; they are basically talking about an 8 channel programmable CV-source, including audio measurements. The measurement of incoming audio frequencies offers the option to calibrate modular oscillators like the SW 901ABBB oscillator bank. The 901 oscillator series is obviously a fantastic sounding musical device but it also has the tendency to react sensitively to temperature changes because of the non-temperature-compensating oscillator concept. With the calibration feature of the SW 955-CONTACT keyboard it is easy to calibrate the 901 single oscillator or oscillator bank within seconds. This opens up completely new dimensions like polyphony, which was nearly impossible in the past. Listening to the ensemble sound of the 901 oscilators is a step into sonic heaven…

Aside from the 8 channel programable CV-source and its great flexibility, we offer the next game changing feature Wendy Carlos was dreaming off: The digital simulation of a MOOG 911 envelope generator. You can assign 4 CV outputs to become 911 envelope outputs which include the standard parameters of a 911 envelope generator but also extended ranges and additional features. There are 3 onboard LFOs offering triangle, rectangle, saw up, saw down and S&H waveforms using independent frequency ranges between 0,01 Hz and 100 Hz. All LFOs can be assigned to the various features of the keyboard (e.g. aftertouch, ribbon controller, mod wheel…).

You can define 3 different key zones on your 6 octave range. Every key zone can be defined by its lower and upper note and adjust the following settings:

• Key assignments: Polyphone, Low, High or Last key
• Trigger Mode: Multi or Single
• MIDI IN: Local or channel 1…16
• MIDI OUT: Channel 1…16 or OFF

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