NORAND Mono Analog Synthesizer

Full Description

Fully analog signal path – vintage character meets modern versatility

With two powerful oscillators and a 100 percent analog signal path, the NORAND Mono is perfect for users who want to capture the sound of classic vintage synths with the usability of modern synths. Bridging the gap between the two worlds, the NORAND Mono features all the tools and parameters you could need to turn your ideas into sound. The continuously variable waveforms allow you to create everything from simple bass patches to evolving, ethereal pads. You can also shape your sound further using the unique 3-pole state variable filter.

The analog signal path has been meticulously tuned to deliver rich harmonics and pure tonality, resulting in that classic warmth and grit associated with vintage analog synths. You can also control the oscillator's tuning independently of the modulation depth and tap into different tones using through-Zero FM. The onboard memory allows you to save up to 2048 sequences and sound presets (32 projects of 64 patterns each) which means you can create everything from simple loops to fully-fledge song projects; all from the NORAND Mono.

Contextual modulation takes your creativity a step further

One of the most unique features of the NORAND Mono is the unique way it deals with modulation. Introducing ‘Contextual Modulation’ – a unique modulation system that allows you to control every single onboard parameter. Turning any parameter knob will select it for modulation with the X-Mod section controlling a dedicated oscillator and a dedicated AD envelope that modulates the parameter. The modulated parameter is indicated by the knob’s LED lighting, so you can monitor your modulation options at a glance. This opens up a whole new world of sound design possibilities, allowing you to modulate any parameter you want with a variety of modulation options.

Powerful and intuitive sequencer with per-step functionality

Sequencing has never been easier with the Mono. The intuitive sequencer design is reminiscent of classic drum machine synths with 16 steps in total to utilise. There are also a range of dedicated parameter functions for the sequencer including nine different play styles and three play modes to choose form. Change the style or timing of each step using the various functions on offer including Ratchet, Slide, Accent, Microshift, Probability and Mute. You can even create automation for various parameters so you can create captivating sequences and songs.

Inputting/deleting your steps is made easy thanks to the powerful undo/re-do options allowing you to cancel or re-instate up to 1024 events. Recording patterns is mas easy thanks to the intuitive control panel. You can also control, record and edit patterns using an external MIDI keyboard as well as the onboard controls.

Onboard randomizer and versatile connection options

Stuck for inspiration or want to generate new ideas from existing ones? Look no further than the built-in randomizer. Randomising parameters can help you get of creative ruts and create melodies or sequences using the powerful onboard functions to kick-start your creativity. With the Mono Synthesizer, you can randomize virtually any parameter by holding down the Randomization two-button combo and selecting the function you want to randomize. There are multiple ways to randomise sounds and functions including the ‘Page Randomizer’ which will add between 1 and 4 note triggers with a random pitch on a selected page – perfect for creating new patterns and sequences. The ‘Pitch Randomizer’ allows you to randomise the pitch of all active notes within a pattern whilst staying quantized. You can even randomise your automation by using the ‘Parameter Randomizer’ to create unique results on a synth/modulation parameter.

The versatile design of the Mono means it can work great as a standalone analog synth, or with outboard gear such as other synthesizers, drum machines and even computers. Featuring MIDI In/Out/Thru connectivity as well as a variety of Eurorack I/O, you can use the NORAND Mono alongside your favourite synth gear. The MIDI class-compliant USB-B port allows you to use the Mono alongside your favourite music software including DAWs – perfect for music production. It also features 48kHz internal CV D/A converters to ensure the best possible sound quality, no matter what you use the NORAND Mono with.

Features

• 100 percent analog signal path
• Bridges the gap between vintage character and modern usability
• Two powerful analog oscillators
• Powerful 64-step sequencer with randomisation options
• ’Contextual Modulation’ provides a unique, hands-on approach to modulation allowing you to modulate any parameter on the synth
• Nine play styles and three play modes to choose from
• Huge onboard memory – save up to 2048 sequences and sound presets
• MIDI and CV connectivity
• Use the Mono with your favourite music software via MIDI class compliant USB connection
• Powerful randomisation options including Page Randomizer
• Continuously variable waveform
• Thru-zero frequency modulation
• Hard-sync
• Filter overdrive
• Three-pole multi-mode filter for advanced sound shaping
• Continuously variable filter colour
• Main ADSR envelope for sound shaping
• Desktop-sized design with intuitive control panel

Specifications

• Synth Type: Fully analog signal path
• Oscillators: 2x analog oscillators and continuously variable waveform
• Filters:
  • Filter overdrive
  • 1 x 3-pole multi-mode filter
• Envelopes: 1x main ADSR envelope
• Modulation Controls:
  • 13x dedicated AD envelopes
  • 20x dedicated modulator
• Modulator:
  • Waveforms: 4
  • Type Settings: Free/Synced/Audio-Rate, Audio-Rate anti-aliased, quantized to OSC1
• Envelope: Attack-Decay segment from 10us to 20s
• Sequencer:
  • Up to 64 step per pattern
  • Individual length/scale/beat-division per pattern
  • Individual microshift/ratchet/probability per step
  • Per step parameter automation (offsets)
  • Swing/Slide/Accent
  • Copy/paste anything
  • Undo/Redo anything with 1024 events history
  • Mod Note mode
  • Fast, clock independent project Load/Save
• Randomizer:
  • Quantized note randomizer
  • Ranged parameter automation randomizer
  • Step randomizer
  • Mod note randomizer
  • Microshift/Probability/Ratchet randomizer
• Storage:
  • 32 projects
  • 64 patterns with patch memory per projects
  • 3200 parameter automation per pattern
  • 40 mod note per projects
• Hardware:
  • 23x transilluminated potentiometer
  • 24x illuminated silent mechanical switch
  • 23x 808-style switch
  • MIDI In/Out/Thru
  • 1x 1/4” balanced main audio out jack
  • 2x 1/8” eurorack Clock/Reset input
  • 2x 1/8” eurorack CV outputs
  • 2x 1/8” eurorack Gate outputs
  • 48kHz internal CV D/A converters
  • Flash-EEPROM upgradable OS
  • MIDI class compliant USB-B port
• Outputs:
  • Balanced Audio Outputs:
    • Output Level: +15dBu maximum
    • Output Impedance: 200 Ohm
  • CV Outputs:
    • Voltage Range: -8V/+8V
    • 1V/oct resolution: 3 cents of a semitone
• Power Consumption: 10W typical
• Recommended Power Supply: 15V DC, 1A
• Front Panel: Machined aluminium
• Back Panel: ABS-PC
• Dimensions (WxDxH): 320 x 150 x 42 mm
• Weight: approx. 1.6 Kg
• Product Code: NORAND-MONO