Arturia PolyBrute Analog Morphing Matrix Synthesizer

Musicians, producers, and sound designers in search of a sophisticated polyphonic synthesizer need to consider the Arturia PolyBrute, a striking gray-blue instrument that offers 6-voice polyphonic analog synthesis. This synthesizer is equipped with advanced morphing capabilities and multi-axis performance controls, facilitating innovative musical expression. Noteworthy features include the morph function, which enables a sound to transition between two distinct states (A and B) within a single preset, allowing for seamless blending. When combined with the Morphee three-dimensional performance touchpad, users can achieve intricate morphing expressions effortlessly. This allows for manipulation of any aspect of the PolyBrute's sound, ranging from subtle morphing to dramatic dynamic changes, across the X, Y, and Z axes instantaneously.

The rear panel is equipped with stereo 1/4" outputs, two TRS 1/4" inputs for expression pedals, a sustain pedal featuring a polarity switch, and 3.5mm sync in and out ports for interfacing with analog drum machines and sequencers. It includes dedicated MIDI In, Out, and Thru connections via 5-pin DIN connectors. Additionally, the USB-B port facilitates a connection to your computer, providing MIDI I/O and access to the PolyBrute Editor software, which allows for bidirectional control of the entire synthesizer engine. Furthermore, it functions as a VST instrument, enabling seamless integration of the PolyBrute into your preferred DAW environment with automated control over all parameters. The PolyBrute is supplied with a power cord.

Like No Other Synth

• PolyBrute challenges conventional norms by offering an entirely innovative experience—not merely a new sound, but also a fresh tactile sensation and a distinctive design. The powerful energy of Brute oscillators, arranged in a six-voice configuration, is expertly shaped by the adaptability of dual enhanced classic filters. With PolyBrute, a patch transcends the concept of a single sound; it represents a vast array of sonic possibilities that can be explored with a simple adjustment of a control. Achieve what once seemed impossible.
  
  
• Accompanying this rich sonic landscape is the necessity for tactile engagement. Utilizing PolyBrute feels akin to playing multiple instruments simultaneously; it serves as a versatile instrument for artistic expression. From the traditional ribbon strip to the cutting-edge Morphée controller, every element is meticulously crafted to respond to your musical subtleties.
  
  
• Does it seem complex? Not at all. The user-friendly function-per-knob interface and the tactile sophistication of the Matrix make next-generation sound easily accessible.
  
  

Morphing Technology

The smooth transition of various parameters from one state to another, along with all intermediate stages, is facilitated by the integration of morphing techniques. This, in conjunction with the distinctive and articulate inventory of the Morphée and PolyBrute, creates opportunities for limitless patch development and expressive capabilities.

Advanced Sound Shaping Capabilities

• PolyBrute produces a powerful sound that originates from two analog voltage-controlled oscillators (VCOs), which share much of the sonic design that has established MatrixBrute and the entire Brute series as renowned instruments. Each oscillator is capable of generating sawtooth, triangle, and square waves simultaneously, allowing for a blend that can create the perfect initial timbre.
  
  
• Adjust VCO 1’s Metalizer wavefolding to transition from a pure tone to a more aggressive sound. Introduce VCO 2’s sub-oscillator to incorporate an additional lower octave, enhancing the overall impact. You can achieve sharp frequency modulation effects by varying VCO 1’s frequency with VCO 2, or you may subtly modify a continuous spectrum of harmonics through either soft or hard synchronization.
  
  

Two Filters Are Better Than One

Tame the rawness of the Brute oscillators with not one, but two filters at your disposal—time-tested classics fused with thrilling enhancements.

VCF 1 Steiner

A 2-pole 12 dB/octave Steiner filter configuration featuring continuously adjustable slope types, as observed throughout the Brute series. The incorporation of the exclusive Brute Factor feedback control enables the introduction of effects ranging from gentle warmth to a more aggressive growl.

VCF 2 Ladder

Inspired by the iconic 4-pole 24 dB/octave ladder design created by Dr. Bob Moog, this low-pass filter is a classic that incorporates gain compensation and asymmetrical distortion, providing a gritty edge to your polyphonic patches.

Filter Modes

• Series: Combine the strengths of both designs forming a single unique filter exhibiting two different slopes.
  
  
• Continuous: In addition to assigning each sound source discretely to the filter of your choice, you can also determine whether the filters run in series, parallel, or a delicious mix of both.
  
  
• Parallel: Route the two different filters separately for discrete stereo synthesis, where the left and right channels can have different evolving sounds.
  
  

Modern Modulation Sources

PolyBrute weaves a web of envelopes and LFOs that’s intricate and unpredictable in equal measure—the sound of motion itself.

Three Envelope Generators

PolyBrute is equipped with velocity-sensitive ADSR envelopes for both its VCF and VCA, which are conveniently hardwired outside the Matrix for immediate access. The third Envelope Generator includes a delay stage (DADSR) and can be allocated to shape any modulation targets within the Matrix. Additionally, the diverse repeat and loop modes can be utilized to introduce intricate movement to your patches.

Three LFOs

PolyBrute features three syncable LFOs that cover an extensive range, enabling the creation of everything from intricate, evolving soundscapes to harsh audio-rate modulation. The inclusion of waveshaping, polarity adjustments, and retriggering options allows for innovative sound exploration. Additionally, utilizing Matrix routing along with tempo and MIDI synchronization can produce complex rhythmic effects.

Enter the Matrix

The flexibility of modular patching combined with digital precision and analog richness makes for a transcendent polysynth experience.

• There are 32 target parameters and a total of 64 connections. With a single button press, users can rearrange the signal chain of the PolyBrute. It allows for the adjustment of both positive and negative values, enabling intuitive assignment of one or more destinations through relevant controls. This feature facilitates the instant routing of PolyBrute’s diverse performance controllers and sophisticated modulation sources to affect nearly any aspect of the instrument’s chain, all without the clutter of excessive wiring.
  
  
• Moreover, the Matrix serves not only to manage the comprehensive modulation routing of the PolyBrute but also acts as the central element of its entire architecture. In Presets mode, the Matrix allows for the selection of any of the 768 available patch memory locations. The Morph mode provides access to advanced morph state editing, while the Sequencer mode converts the Matrix into an intuitive visual pattern editor.
  
  

Animate and Automate Your Sound

To initiate sound movement swiftly, one can utilize the Sequencer/Arpeggiator section of the PolyBrute, which is readily available through the Transport section, Matrix, and keybed. You can activate patterns directly from the keyboard or employ the Hold mode to sustain the keys you press, allowing you to manipulate controllers, adjust parameters, or perform simultaneously. This experience closely resembles the sensation of flight while remaining grounded.

32-Step Arpeggiator

Arturia has elevated the capabilities of the arpeggiator beyond conventional expectations, offering a range of innovative modes that span from the reliably predictable to the wonderfully unpredictable. When you encounter a sound that resonates with you, a simple press of a button allows you to transform it into a sequence, ensuring that the enchantment of the moment is captured, with further editing and refinement available as options.

64-Step Polyphonic Sequencer

• A tactile visual interface provides all the essential tools for crafting dynamic polyphonic sequences, arpeggios, parameter motion recording, and more. You can engage in live performance alongside your sequences using split and layer modes. Controllers can be utilized to modify timbre and various PolyBrute parameters during playback, enhancing the nuance, character, and dynamics of your sequence-driven performances. Additionally, it is possible to record adjustments from up to three distinct controllers into a sequence, allowing for the automation of textural variations.
  
  
• You can opt for consistent predictability or introduce a level of random probability to keep the experience fresh and engaging. Envision the potential of manipulating nearly any PolyBrute control in this manner. Furthermore, playback speed can be adjusted from 1/8 to 8 times the original performance, with the option to loop playback for repetitive effects.
  
  

Motion Recorder

The Motion Recorder enhances the versatility of your PolyBrute patches by capturing the movement of nearly any knob or controller in real time. This feature allows for the automatic playback of the recorded motion with each note that is triggered, providing an additional layer of animation to your sound design.

Matrix Arpeggiator

Should traditional arpeggiation not align with your preferences, the Matrix Arpeggiator mode offers a unique fusion of PolyBrute’s arpeggiator and sequencer, serving as an additional innovative tool for creativity. You can assign up to six sustained notes to play at each step, incorporating features such as mutes, octave transposition, slides, and modulation tracks. This pattern can then be applied to any notes you sustain, allowing for the intelligent and intuitive crafting of melodies and ostinatos.

Integrated Digital Effects

• PolyBrute incorporates built-in professional-grade digital effects into every patch, with parameters that can be modulated to no end—rounding off an all-encompassing palette worthy of any stage, studio, or soundtrack.
  
  
• These effects are no mere afterthoughts, either—we’ve even included favorite algorithms from our critically acclaimed FX Collection. Choose between 3 types of effect—Modulation, Delay, Reverb—and unlock all manner of immersive textures from chorus to bitcrusher and karplus to BBD delay, plate to dreamy reverb.
  
  
• PolyBrute’s effects are specially designed to take advantage of its complex stereo architecture, you even have the option of inserting them all inline before the output or configuring delay and reverb as a side-chain send.
  
  

Modulation

• Flanger
  
  
• Phaser 12p
  
  
• RingMod
  
  
• BitCrusher
  
  
• Soft Flanger
  
  
• Phase Flanger
  
  
• DownSampler
  
  

Delay

• Stereo Delay
  
  
• Long Delay
  
  
• BBD PingPong
  
  
• Karplus
  
  
• Stereo Spread
  
  
• Parallel
  
  
• BBD Spread
  
  

Reverb

• Bright Plate
  
  
• Room
  
  
• Dreamy
  
  
• Spring
  
  
• Delayed Plate
  
  

World-Class Presets

These remarkable presets are pre-installed and encompass a wide range of genres and musical textures, crafted by specialists in various sonic disciplines. However, these presets are not merely standard offerings; each one serves as an entry point into a new auditory realm, consisting of two unique states and countless variations in between, all poised for discovery through an array of expressive components. The PolyBrute stands as a comprehensive platform for sonic exploration, even before engaging with any controls.

Flagship Design

The layout of this synthesizer is not only logical and user-friendly, but its impressive design merges the finest elements of vintage synthesizer heritage with contemporary innovation. It features timeless angles, smooth surfaces, and elegant details that are sure to make an impression on any stage. The robust metal frame is designed with a level of sophistication that is reminiscent of luxury interior design.

PolyBrute represents years of meticulous development, having undergone extensive testing to guarantee exceptional build quality. The controls, buttons, and expressive features provide a consistently enjoyable user experience. Its immaculate metal chassis is enhanced by rich dark walnut accents, creating a classic aesthetic with a modern twist that distinguishes it from others.

While PolyBrute embodies a distinctly new identity, it remains deeply connected to the traditions of synthesizer design.

The chassis of PolyBrute is fully compatible with Arturia's wooden legs (available separately). These wooden legs provide a professional ergonomic solution, crafted from timeless beechwood, making them both reliable and stylish for studio and stage use. Experience an uninterrupted performance with elegance.

PolyBrute Connect

Integrating the physicality of analog equipment with the adaptability of virtual instruments, the PolyBrute features a complete front panel that is available as a standalone application for Mac and PC, as well as a plugin compatible with all leading digital audio workstations (DAWs). Users can manage their patch library effectively and benefit from real-time visual editing between the software and hardware; any modifications made on the PolyBrute will be mirrored on the screen, and changes in the software will be reflected on the device. Furthermore, every parameter of the PolyBrute can be controlled through MIDI tracks within your DAW, merging the strengths of analog technology with a seamless virtual workflow.

• Craft sound—Explore the depths of PolyBrute’s advanced features with a like-for-like virtual interface.
  
  
• Manage your patches—Organize your favorite sounds, and easily import new presets and sound banks.
  
  
• Control in real-time—Every parameter change, either on synth or software, is mirrored by the other.
  
  

Main Features

• Analog Morphing Synthesizer
  
  
  • 6 voices of Polyphony
    
    
  • Mono, Unison, Poly voicing
    
    
  • Single, Split, Layer modes
    
    
• 61-keys with Velocity and Aftertouch
  
  
• Pitch Bend, Mod Wheel, Ribbon controllers
  
  
• Morphée touch and pressure sensitive 3D controller
  
  
• Sound Morphing capability, part A and B for each preset
  
  
• Two Analog VCO's
  
  
  • Saw
    
    
  • Triangle + Metalizer
    
    
  • Square + Pulse Width
    
    
  • Sub
    
    
  • Linear FM
    
    
  • Hard Sync
    
    
• Noise Generator
  
  
• Continuous tone from rumble noise to white noise—Osc and Noise Mixer with Filter routing
  
  
• 12 dB/Oct Steiner Parker Filter
  
  
  • Continuous LP>Notch>HP>BP morphing
    
    
  • Cutoff, Resonance, Brute Factor
    
    
• 24 dB/Oct Ladder Filter with Distortion
  
  
• Three Envelopes—Looping capability
  
  
• Three LFOs
  
  
  • LFO1 and LFO2 with waveform selection
    
    
  • LFO3 with waveform shaping using Shape and Symmetry
    
    
  • Rate control and Tempo Sync
    
    
  • Various retrig options
    
    
• Three stereo digital effects
  
  
  • Modulation FX: Chorus, Phaser, Flanger, Ring Modulation
    
    
  • Delay: 9 algorithms including BBD, Digital Delay
    
    
  • Reverb: 9 algorithms including Hall, Plate, Spring, Shimmer
    
    
• 768 preset slots
  
  
• 12x32 Modulation Matrix
  
  
• 64 step polyphonic sequencer
  
  
  • Notes, Accent, Slide per step
    
    
  • 3 tracks of automation
    
    
• Arpeggiator and Matrix Arpeggiator
  
  
• Stereo audio output
  
  
• MIDI and USB I/O + analog clock I/O
  
  
• 2 expression and 1 sustain pedal inputs