Copy of MALEVOLENT

 Modular Pure Analogue Synthesiser

The PWM Malevolent is a unique pure analogue synthesiser combining a flexible modular architecture with a wild Sallen-Key filter, overdriven analogue VCA and modern USB-MIDI integration.

Designed for hands-on sound creation, the Malevolent gives you the immediacy of a conventional synthesiser with the flexibility of a modular system. Its normalised signal path means you can simply switch it on and play, while 19 patch inputs and 19 outputs allow the entire signal path to be reconfigured.

Key Features

• Pure analogue signal path

• Fully re-patchable modular architecture

• 2 analogue VCOs with extensive waveshaping and FM

• Multi-mode 2-pole Sallen-Key VCF

• Analogue VCA with overdrive

• 2 analogue ADSR envelopes

• Analogue LFO

• Eurorack-standard 1V/Oct CV and Gate

• USB-MIDI to analogue CV/Gate conversion

• 32 velocity-sensitive mini-keys

• Performance joystick

• Built-in 6-mode arpeggiator

• Analogue, MIDI and USB-MIDI clock I/O

• Headphone and line outputs

Modular Architecture

The Malevolent's individual synth sections are connected internally using normalised signal paths, giving you an instantly playable instrument without needing to patch anything. But start plugging in patch cables and the Malevolent becomes a completely different beast. With 19 inputs and 19 outputs, you can break the normalised connections and create your own signal paths between the oscillators, envelopes, filter, VCA, LFO and external equipment. The Malevolent uses standard 3.5mm patch connections and is compatible with Eurorack-standard 1V/Oct equipment.

Characterful Analogue Oscillators

The two VCOs use a 4046-derived oscillator core, providing unusual waveshaping possibilities and a distinctly lively analogue character. Sawtooth, triangle and pulse waveforms can be shaped and modulated, with the response deliberately designed to change across the pitch range. This means the oscillators have their own character before the signal even reaches the filter.

• Saw, triangle and pulse outputs

• Mixed waveform output

• 1V/Oct pitch input

• Shape / PWM input

• 2 × FM inputs

• Coarse and fine tuning

• Shape modulation control

• Individual FM controls

• Individual oscillator level

The Filter

At the heart of the Malevolent is a 2-pole Sallen-Key filter using opto-FET control.

 Low-pass, band-pass and high-pass inputs provide different filter behaviours, while the filter has been designed to interact with the level of the oscillator signal entering it.

The resonance range goes well beyond the restrained behaviour found on many analogue synths. Expect self-oscillation, sub-harmonic locking and unusual phase interactions when using multiple filter inputs.

• Low-pass input

• Band-pass input

• High-pass input

• 2 × frequency modulation inputs

• FM amount controls

• Cutoff control

• Resonance control

Overdrive the VCA

The final stage of the signal path uses a discrete transistor-based VCA, providing another opportunity to add character and saturation. Turn up the Drive to push the final transistor stage into serious gain and distortion. Two CV inputs also allow the VCA to be modulated externally, including at audio rates.

Performance Control

The Malevolent is designed to be played as much as it is patched. Its 32 velocity-sensitive mini-keys provide pitch, velocity and gate control, while the multi-function joystick adds hands-on performance control to:

• Pitch bend

• Performable portamento

• Performable vibrato

• Latching hold mode

• Additional digital performance LFO

• The joystick-controlled LFO works alongside the dedicated analogue LFO, providing an additional modulation source without sacrificing the main LFO.

Arpeggiator

The integrated arpeggiator features six modes, up to six octave ranges, latch and selectable sync rates. It automatically detects analogue, MIDI or USB-MIDI clock and synchronises accordingly, while also providing analogue, MIDI and USB-MIDI clock output when running.

USB-MIDI Meets Analogue

The Malevolent brings modern MIDI connectivity into a fully analogue signal path.

USB-MIDI and MIDI can be converted directly to analogue 1V/Oct pitch and Gate control, allowing the Malevolent to be controlled from a DAW, keyboard or other MIDI equipment. All pitch and gate control within the synthesiser remains analogue.

• Pitch CV output

• Velocity CV output

• Gate output

• ±4 octave shift

• Local Off mode for DAW use

Eurorack Compatible

The Malevolent uses the Eurorack-standard 1V/Oct control voltage format, making it easy to integrate with modular equipment. Use external Eurorack gear to control the Malevolent, or use the Malevolent as a source of pitch, gate and modulation signals for another modular system. The analogue clock input and output also allow the Malevolent to synchronise with, or provide timing for, other equipment.

What's Included

5 × patch cables

9V 600mA power supply

USB-C cable

Getting Started Guide

Dimensions & Weight

490 × 250 × 80 mm

2.61 kg

Measured without cables or power supply.