Modern SoundsPluto Desktop Semi-Modular Synthesizer

Modern Sounds Pluto

Simultaneously inspired by retro synths and its namesake celestial body, the Modern Sounds Pluto is an exploratory and captivating semi-modular synthesizer filled with sounds that are out of this world. At its core, Pluto features two digital oscillators subjected to influence by five modulation sources: Charon, Styx, Nix, Kerberos, and Hydra—all named for the moons orbiting Pluto. These moons generate deviating clock pulses, polyrhythms, and a variety of other timing sources that may be used to control other parts of Pluto, such as the dual sequencers or the oscillators themselves. Each oscillator is linked to a corresponding sequencer with slightly differing feature sets for musical variety. Sequencer 1 features a touchable keyboard and patch-programmed functionality, while Sequence 2 offers randomness and directional flips for evolving melodies. Note choices are determined by the Scale knob, which includes a variety of scales and chords from which pitches are drawn.

Pluto's oscillators themselves offer a selection of classic waveforms or a number of built-in wavetables. Additionally, oscillator one may be bypassed for external instrument input, while the second voice features a Percussive mode for more rhythmically inclined tones. From there, both voices pass through an output effects section, offering either an analog-style delay or a glitched-out delay/reverb combo. Pluto obviously features a plethora of patchable inputs and outputs on its top panel, but it's also fully open to MIDI input as well. Incoming MIDI notes may be routed to either oscillator when its sequencer is not in use. There's also a clock sync jack which may be selected as an input or an output, giving you multiple ways to integrate Pluto into your setup. With sounds extending to the outer reaches of our Solar System, Pluto will endlessly inspire your music.

Pluto Features

• Compact patchable synthesizer
• Features 2 multi-mode digital oscillators
• Classic waveforms, internal wavetables, and percussive generators
• 4-step sequencer per oscillator
• Mini touch keyboard
• "Moons" modulation section: 5 dispersed clock/rhythm generators
• External audio input
• Delay and reverb effects processor
• Scale pitch quantizer
• MIDI Input or Output
• Clock sync input or output
• Rechargeable battery