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Average Price: $245
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$500
$1501+
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Description
Unleash your creativity with the Akai Timbre Wolf Analog Polyphonic Synthesizer, a versatile powerhouse designed for musicians seeking both vintage charm and modern flexibility. This synth doesn't just replicate sounds; it invites you to craft them. With four independent voices, each equipped with a single oscillator, the Timbre Wolf offers an impressive range of tonal possibilities, from rich, monophonic basslines to lush, polyphonic chords. Switch effortlessly between its roles as a massive monosynth, a classic polysynth, or an intricate sequencer, adapting to whatever musical journey you embark upon.
The Timbre Wolf is built for seamless integration into any setup, offering MIDI, CV, and USB outputs. Whether you're connecting to a modular rig, vintage synths, or the latest computer workstations, this synthesizer ensures your creativity flows uninterrupted. Its 32-step sequencer empowers you to compose complex, evolving patterns with ease, making it an invaluable tool for both live performances and studio sessions.
Whether you’re a solo artist looking to expand your sound palette, or part of a band needing a reliable synth with unique capabilities, the Timbre Wolf is your companion for sonic exploration. Embrace the warmth of analog sound and redefine your musical expression.
Key Features:
- Fully analog four-voice polyphonic synthesizer
- Single oscillator per voice with independent configuration
- Functions as a monosynth, polysynth, or sequencer
- MIDI, CV, and USB outputs for versatile connectivity
- On-board 32-step sequencer for intricate pattern creation
Product specs
| Brand | Akai |
| Model | Timbre Wolf |
| Finish | White |
| Year | 2010s |
| Categories | Analog Synths, Keyboard Synths |
| Analog / Digital | Analog |
| Key Size | Full Size |
| Keyboard Action | Synth Action |
| MIDI I/O | MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through, USB MIDI |
| Number of Keys | 25 Keys |
| Polyphony | 4 Voices |
FAQs
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Is the Akai Timbre Wolf a polyphonic synthesizer?
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Yes, the Akai Timbre Wolf is a polyphonic synthesizer with 4 voices, allowing you to play multiple notes simultaneously for richer sound textures.
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What type of keys does the Akai Timbre Wolf have?
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The Akai Timbre Wolf features full-size keys with a synth action, providing a responsive feel suitable for various playing styles.
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Does the Akai Timbre Wolf support MIDI connectivity?
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Yes, the Akai Timbre Wolf offers extensive MIDI connectivity, including MIDI Input, MIDI Output, MIDI Through, and USB MIDI, making it versatile for studio and live setups.
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Can the Akai Timbre Wolf be used with a computer?
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Yes, the Akai Timbre Wolf can be connected to a computer via USB MIDI, allowing for integration with DAWs and other music software.
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How many keys does the Akai Timbre Wolf have?
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The Akai Timbre Wolf is equipped with a 25-key keyboard, which is compact yet functional for live performances and studio work.
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What kind of sound can I expect from the Akai Timbre Wolf?
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The Akai Timbre Wolf, being an analog synthesizer, delivers warm and rich tones typical of classic analog synths, suitable for a variety of music genres.
Videos
Perfect Circuit
AKAI Timbre Wolf Analog Synthesizer Demo
Reviews
PROS
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Unique sound character, likened to Renaissance instruments
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Analog with 4 oscillators offering diverse texture
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16-step sequencer enhances creativity
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Individual outputs for each voice allow detailed mixing
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Solid build quality with semi-weighted keys
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Pairs well with external effects for expanded soundscapes
CONS
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Limited editable parameters beyond oscillators
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Some find it lacks power, especially in filters
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May require tuning, unusual for modern synths
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Not universally appreciated, with a divisive reputation
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Sound can be perceived as lackluster without additional effects
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Size considered large for its functionality range
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Akai Timbre Wolf Analog Polyphonic Synthesizer.
Value and pricing
User experience
Comparisons
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The Timbre Wolf is essentially four times the bass voice from the Rhythm Wolf, likened to having four budget 303s in one unit.
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The Timbre Wolf is seen as an unconventional four-mono synth setup rather than a traditional polyphonic instrument.
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The Timbre Wolf's polyphonic capabilities are compared to the Mono/Poly, but it's described as more limited and simplified.
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Compared to the Korg Volca Keys, the Timbre Wolf is noted for having full-size keys and a metal chassis but is considered less versatile.
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Use cases and applications
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Some users successfully use the Timbre Wolf for creating quirky bass loops and electric piano sounds, despite its limited tonal capabilities.
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The synth's 32-step sequencers per voice and individual voice outputs are noted as ideal for creating complex patterns with external effects.
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It excels at producing unique, creepy tones suitable for experimental genres, but struggles with more conventional sounds.
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Features and functionality
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The synth's limited control range is described as having knobs with only about 1/4 of the typical range found in other analog synths.
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Users report that the Timbre Wolf has separate controls for each voice, and the overdrive only applies to the main output.
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Users highlight the unique formant sounds achievable due to the synth's strange bandpass-like filter resonance.
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The Timbre Wolf lacks ADSR controls, offering only envelope amount and decay knobs for sound shaping.
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Build quality
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The Timbre Wolf is recognized for its sturdy hardware and robust metal chassis, but its sound is often criticized as muddy and dull by owners.
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The Timbre Wolf is praised for excellent build quality, with users noting its warm sound that requires EQ adjustments to manage excessive low end.
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Critic Reviews
4.0 out of 5
Based on 4 Reviews and 15 Ratings
161
Semi-weighted keys...
Ahh... the synth that everyone loves to hate. I refuse to sell mine, just to make plebes cringe! =)
In all honesty, I only bought this synth to have a semi-weighted MIDI keyboard controller for less than $300. In that respect, it's the most solid-built one that I could find at the time, in that price range.
As for the sound, eh... I expected it to be lackluster, and it pretty much met those expectations to a tee. The step sequencer is useful if you don't have one, I suppose. I would use the TB-03 to sequence it, more often than not, and that did provide some incentives to use it for sound, but rarely do I find myself doing that.
The keys are nice, and the machine itself is built solid (like a tank). I do like the wood side panels, too, but I can understand the haters on this one.
41029
why couldn't they just reissue a smaller verion of one of the AX series analog polysynths? WHY AKAI???
118
Underrated
The hate is undeserved, but I get it. Lets talk about the cons and pros.
Pros:
Analog 4 Oscillators, each with two Wave forms to chose from, along with other parameters. 16 Step Sequencer Built in "distortion" Quarter inch jack for each Oscillator voice.
Cons:
No editable parameters besides the oscillators. A bit large for a mini synth with little functionality
Overall, a great synth with some nice sounding oscillators.
Preferred Settings + Usage:
I like using the Timbre Wolf for basslines, and its sequencer.
659
It sounds wonderful, that's what's important here.
I know this thing has quite a tumultuous history, but as someone who paid a more-than-reasonable price for it, and already owns plenty of effects pedals to make up for the lack of powerful effects on board, I have to say, I love it. Its sound adds the exact kind of textures I was hoping to get out of it, and paired with a smidge of bitcrushing and some spacious reverb, you can't go wrong.
I find it really weird that I have to tune it, though. Is that normal for analog synths?
Artist usage
Add artist
In a YouTube video, Soft Blade is shown using the Akai Timbre Wolf Analog Polyphonic Synthesizer during a home improvisation session. The video description, provided by Soft Blade, states: "Home improvisation with my analog four-voice monophonic synthesizer AKAI timbre wolf. Hope you enjoy."
Genre Usage
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Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Akai Timbre Wolf Analog Polyphonic Synthesizer, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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