Nakedboards founder Nikolai Ershov has introduced a new instrument, the Archean synthesizer, inspired by primordial landscapes.

Archean is a monophonic patchable synthesizer. The oscillator generates sound waves across a range of seven octaves (from 16.25 Hz to 4186.08 Hz). The synthesizer produces three types of sound waves: a signal in the form of a randomly generated landscape, a constantly and smoothly changing landscape and triangular wave.

All CV inputs and outputs have a voltage range of -5 to +5 volts. The 1 V/OCT input supports a range from 0 to 7 volts. The touch keyboard, composed of various mineral shapes, has 22 keys and supports changing musical scales.

The synthesizer has two audio outputs: a line output and an output for Eurorack systems. The device can receive MIDI messages via USB, MIDI input, or be controlled via CV/Gate.

Archean is equipped with a distance sensor that generates CV, based on the distance to an object in front of the synthesizer.

The instrument can also be used as a USB-MIDI keyboard. Archean sends MIDI-CC messages from the distance sensor and the following knobs: Fine, Attack, Decay, Sustain, Release.

Here’s what Ershov has to say about it:

“This project was born from the freest and most unassuming ideas about how modern electronic music can be performed. For me, ambient music evokes endless associations with geological formations far more than with living nature. My immersion in this music, reading books, and listening to geology lectures put me in a certain romantic state that I strive to convey through my instruments, projects, and music. This synthesizer is dedicated to that.

I am very excited to finally present it to you after almost two years of development.”

Features:

• Monophonic patchable synthesizer
• Range: 7 octaves (16.25 Hz – 4186.08 Hz)
• Can be used as a USB-MIDI keyboard
• Inputs: MIDI, USB, CV/Gate
• Touch keyboard
• Two audio outputs (line and Eurorack)
• Includes power supply, MIDI adapter, patch cords
• Dimensions: 22 x 13 x 5 cm

Pricing and Availability:

The Archean synthesizer is available to pre-order now for $350, with an expected October release. See the Nakedboards site for details.