NEW: Arturia MiniBrute 2

Yet to hit their 20th anniversary (that’s coming next year) Arturia have made a massive impact and come a long way and earned a massive reputation for building analogue-inspired hardware and software. They have just announced an expansion to the ‘Brute’ family with the addition of the Arturia MiniBrute 2.

The Arturia MiniBrute 2 is one of the new Arturia products that will be available here at Absolute Music from late February 2018.

MiniBrute 2 is a 25-key analog monosynth with semi-modular architecture, bridging the gap between the traditional synthesizer instruments and the exciting world of modular. The new Arturia MiniBrute 2 shares many of the same iconic features that made its predecessor so popular here at Absolute Music, including mixable oscillators, the acidic Steiner-Parker filter, and the chaotic ‘Brute Factor’. While keeping many of its signature elements, the tone-shaping potential of MiniBrute 2 has been massively increased.

The reimagined Arturia MiniBrute now features semi-modular architecture, adding a comprehensive CV/Gate patch matrix that allows users to both rework its internal signal routing, but also expand into the blossoming world of modular. It also features the same high quality, aftertouch-enabled keybed found in their flagship MatrixBrute synth, making it a joy to play.

Arturia’s latest small-but-mighty monosynth is the successor to their debut analog instrument, the MiniBrute. The first incarnation was released in 2012, and turned the industry on its head, offering a unique, affordable analog synth experience with Attitude. It has also helped Arturia grow their roster of high profile endorsees such as Steve Albini, Paul Godfrey (Morcheeba), Justin Meldal-Johnsen (Beck, Nine Inch Nails, M83 and Air) and Jean-Michel Jarre.

From a look at its front panel of the Arturia MiniBrute 2 you will quickly realise that this machine is all business. From the now-iconic Brute oscillators, the acidic Steiner-Parker filter, and the mayhem-inducing Brute Factor knob that has become the signature Arturia synth element for many fans.

Looking a bit further, beyond the usual modulation sources and controls, you’ll notice some exciting, unexpected features: a second VCO; a second LFO; new VCO and Filter frequency modulation possibilities; modifier-related modulation destinations; a brand new, loopable AD envelope. Once tamed, this little beast will reveal the full range of its vocalizations, including raging leads and piercing sequences, as well as smooth pads and purring bass.

1. VCO 1

Sawtooth, Pulse and Triangle waves with unique modifiers and direct FM control. Ultra Saw makes for huge sounds, Metalizer adds complex harmonics to the triangle wave. FM generates rich tones.

2. VCO 2

Selectable waveform between sine, saw and square. Multiple tuning modes for fine, coarse or LFO operation.

3. Oscillator Mixer

Allows for mixing the levels of the individual waveforms of the oscillator 1 and 2, the noise generator and the external inputs.

4. Steiner-Parker Multimode Filter

Beefy filter with Low Pass, High Pass, Band Pass, and Notch modes. Resonance can be pushed into self oscillation.

5. 4 Stage Envelope

ADSR Type Envelope generator.

6. Brute Factor

The Brute Factor™ can add subtle drive effects to full blown intermodulation havoc.

7. AD Envelope

This modulator can generate AD, AHR or loopable envelopes. Its Attack and Decay times are CV-controllable, too.

8. Patchbay

48 CV inputs and outputs to control many elements of the synthesizer and sequencer. Some utility modules provide extended possibilities.

9. Two LFOs

Both LFO supply 6 waveforms and can run in sync to the Sequencer. Very fast rates can be obtained.

10. Sequencer/Arpeggiator

Flexible sequencer or arpeggiator allows for instant melodic phrases. Syncs to MIDI clock over USB and MIDI In to play in sync with your favorite DAW.

11. Performance Controls

Mod Wheel & Aftertouch destinations and Pitch Bend amounts can all be set.

12. Keyboard with Aftertouch

25 note velocity-sensitive keyboard with aftertouch. Octave buttons allow transposition of up to 5 octaves.

The Arturia MiniBrute 2 is expected to arrive here in late February but is available to pre-order now, so make sure you get your name on the waiting list. Click here to order yours today.