Synthesizers like this one produce a nearly innumerable amount of electronic sounds by the manipulation of wave forms. Select a basic wave form or two (like a sawtooth, which sounds sharp and abrasive just like the name suggests), twiddle a few of the knobs to effect its tone and volume over time, then play out a melody with the two-octave keyboard. You can then record your melody on the included 4-track recorder which works just like old-fashioned analog tape. Next, you can sample a sound from another song, something you say or sing, or even something off of the built-in (and totally awesome) FM radio. That recording capability (and the FM radio) make this little stunner a serious synthesizer. Add to it that it’s fully portable (and capable of 16 hours of use per charge) and you have reason to celebrate. It can connect to PC/Mac/Linux systems via USB for greater control and to transfer completed songs to and from the device for storage. It’s available now for $849, and we’re already making room on our desk as we start saving our pennies. [via uncrate]
