Modal Electronics Cobalt8

The Cobalt8 from Modal is an eight-voice virtual-analog synthesizer with true polyphony and a rich sounding character. This next-generation analog-modeling synth harnesses all the beauty and power of analog synthesis and brings it under digital control.

The onboard oscillators perfectly model classic analog waveforms, including sine, triangle, sawtooth, and pulse. Group up to 64 oscillators together with eight groups of eight oscillators for earth rumbling goodness. A collection of 34 unique algorithms takes these simple waveforms and adds depth and complexity. These include everything from wave morphing, ring mod, sync, and many more. Each algorithm features a simple-to-use set of controls selected to suit the algorithm at hand.

It wouldn’t be an excellent analog synthesizer without a killer filter, and the Cobalt8 delivers with a four-pole morphable multi-mode filter. This ladder filter self oscillates at high resonance settings and does a fantastic job carving out the harmonics from complex waveforms and adding warmth. The highly programmable three-slot stereo FX engine features 11 different algorithms to choose from. These include LoFi, tremolo, chorus, phaser, flanger (positive), flanger (negative), rotary, stereo delay, X-over delay, ping pong delay, and reverb.

The modulation matrix features 12 sources and 55 destinations for full control over your sound. Four routings come prerouted in the matrix that are often connected, but Modal left the rest up to you. Three wide-ranging multi-waveform LFOs provide synced or unsynced modulation. Three dedicated envelopes automatically modulate AMP, MOD, and FILTER and feature both inverted and non-inverted outputs. A four-axis joystick adds tactile and gestural control right at your fingertips.

The keyboard is a 37-key full-sized FATAR that is responsive to your playing style. Aftertouch and support for MPE add another layer of expression and dynamism to any performance. An integrated 512-note real-time/step sequencer features four animation lanes for fully automating your playing. The polyphonic sequencer can be paired with the advanced arpeggiator with performance features such as inversions, sustain latch, transpose, and chord hold. Sync the arpeggiator and sequencer’s clock to external sources using the 3.5mm jack that conforms to the Korg/Teenage Engineering standard. MIDI in and out provides an easy way to interface the COBALT8 with external synthesizers. Packed with 500 preset slots, saving and recalling your favorite sounds is easy. Modal loaded 300 of these with selections from accomplished sound designers that really show off what the COBALT8 is capable of. The MODALapp brings direct editing over parameters and presets to your computer or mobile device.

This inspiring instrument is full of surprises that rewards hours of exploration. With a host of easy to use controls and massive sound, it is an incredible piece of gear.

Cobalt8 Features

Next-generation of analog-modeling synthesizer
Fatar 37-note keybed with velocity and aftertouch
512-note step sequencer with four animation lanes
Eight true polyphonic voices with two-oscillator banks and up to 64 oscillators
34 shaping algorithms including sync, ring modulation, and waveform morphing
Self-oscillating four-pole morphable ladder filter with four filter modes
Three LFOs go up to audio rate and can sync to the master tempo
Modulation matrix with 12 slots and four common preset modulation routings
X/Y joystick with four assignable axes of modulation
Three-slot FX engine with 11 total effects
500 total patches with 300 factory presets curated by top-notch sound designers
Programmable arpeggiator with 32 steps and then ability to run up to 2048 steps without repeating
Sync over 3.5mm jack
MIDI in and out
Supports MPE from external MIDI controllers
Sync with the MODALapp for remote control over presets and parameters
Stereo audio input
1.54″ OLED display