NEWS  Musical Instruments  November 27, 2023  Reading time: 2 Minute(s)

Max (RS editor)

In the wake of Mutable Instruments' departure from the synthesizer market in 2022, Emilie Gillet's iconic Ambika poly synth is making a triumphant return, thanks to the skilled craftsmanship of Michigan Synth Works. Behold Xena, a modern reinterpretation of the Ambika DIY Synthesizer that has been meticulously reworked to capture the essence of its predecessor.

 PCB BOARD OF THE ORIGINAL AMBIKA POLYSYNTH 

Xena, described by some as a clone or replica, stands as a true remake, maintaining the essence of the original Mutable creation. Michigan Synth Works proudly presents a machine-assembled marvel with an updated layout and a revamped modern power supply, departing from the traditional DIY approach.

This synthesizer powerhouse, named after the warrior princess herself, boasts 6 digital voices, each equipped with two oscillators, featuring an impressive array of 36 oscillator algorithms, including wavetables. The inclusion of a configurable sub-oscillator, doubling as a transient designer, adds to the sonic versatility. Xena also introduces a pre-filter overdrive and a bit-crushing effect, elevating its sonic capabilities.

One of the distinctive features retained from the original Ambika is the ability to interchange filters. Xena allows users to select from three filter cards during the ordering process: a 4-pole filter, a 4-pole SMR OTA-based filter, or a 2-pole state-variable multimode filter. Regrettably, the characterful Polivoks filter card is absent from the options, but enthusiasts can source it from alternative dealers in the market.

Venturing into the modulation realm, Xena provides a robust set of modulators, including three ADSR envelopes, three patch-level LFOs, and a voice-level LFO. A modulation matrix with 14 slots and four modulation modifiers offers a canvas for sonic exploration. Additionally, Xena comes equipped with an arpeggiator, a note sequencer, and two step sequencers per part, promising a rich palette of soundscapes.

Staying true to its legacy, Xena inherits the flexible voice structure from the original Ambika. With six voices that can be freely configured, users can explore various setups, including 6-voice polyphony, six independent mono parts, or two layers of 3-voice poly synths. The synth also supports unison patches and an array of configurations.

Users can conveniently store patches, programs, multis, and other patch data on a micro-SD card, ensuring easy access to their musical creations. Connectivity-wise, Xena offers a comprehensive set of features, including full 5-pin MIDI in/out, a mix output, a volume knob, independent outputs for each of the six voices, and a power supply input.

Xena is now available for purchase from Michigan Synth Works at the price of approximately €371.95 plus tax and shipping. For those looking to seize a deal, the Black Friday sale extends until December 4, 2023, offering Xena at a discounted rate of €334.76. Synth enthusiasts, brace yourselves for a renewed era of sonic exploration with the formidable Xena.

 IMAGES BY MUTABLE INSTRUMENTS | MICHIGAN SYNTH WORKS