https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZyeR6pCyUi0]

Telepathic Instruments shared this sneak preview for Orchid, an advanced chord generating hardware synthesizer that they say is “developed for songwriters, producers and musicians to expand the possibilities of songwriting and musical exploration”.

The synth combines a variety of tools most Synthtopia readers will be familiar with – including synthesizers, sequencers, arpeggiators, chord organ and loopers – into a single device, designed specifically for developing musical ideas.

The Orchid is the brainchild of musician Kevin Parker, who’s best known for his Tame Impala project, and co-founder Ignacio Germade.

As the oddly tasty video highlights, you can use the Orchid chord functions to create chord sequencers, voice the chords across MIDI’s full range, add performance styles like Strum or Arpegiator and assign sounds using a polyphonic synth engine that offers virtual analog, FM and reed piano emulation. Then you can add a separate bass part and effects to flesh out your idea.

The Orchid can be used anywhere, with a rechargeable battery and built-in stereo speakers. But, once you’ve worked out an idea, you can send your MIDI straight into your DAW or use it to control your MIDI synths.

Pricing and Availability:

The Orchid is expected to be available in December 2024, priced at $549 USD. Details are still to come at the Telepathic Instruments site.