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Average Price: $4,183
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$500
$1501+
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Description
Unlock a universe of sound with the Alesis A6 Andromeda Synthesizer, a true analog powerhouse designed to inspire musicians and producers alike. This synth isn't just a nod to the classics; it's a modern marvel with 16-voice polyphony and a whopping 72 knobs for unparalleled control over your sonic landscape. While its exterior might be reminiscent of vintage gear, the heart of the Andromeda is packed with cutting-edge features that deliver the warmth and depth only a genuine analog signal path can offer.
Dive into a world of creativity with two oscillators per voice, offering five waveforms each, along with suboscillators and both hard and soft sync options. Whether you're drafting the smoothest leads or exploring the fringes of sound design, the Andromeda's expansive capabilities are at your fingertips. Its 16-channel multitimbral feature ensures that each sound you craft can be as complex or as simple as your imagination allows.
The A6 Andromeda is not just about sound; it's about interaction. With a ribbon control and multiple assignable functions, your performance can be as dynamic and expressive as you are. Whether you're on stage or in the studio, the Andromeda A6 promises a transformative experience, empowering you to push boundaries and explore new musical dimensions.
Key Features:
- True analog signal path
- 16-voice polyphony, 16-channel multitimbral
- 2 oscillators per voice with 5 waveforms
- 72 knobs and 144 buttons for extensive control
- Ribbon control with multiple assignable functions
- Suboscillators and hard/soft sync options
- Full MIDI control
Product specs
| Brand | Alesis |
| Model | A6 Andromeda 61-Key Polyphonic Analog Synthesizer |
| Finish | Black/Silver |
| Year | 2000s |
| 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 |
| Number of Keys | 61 Keys |
| Polyphony | 16 Voices |
FAQs
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What type of synthesis does the Alesis A6 Andromeda use?
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The Alesis A6 Andromeda is an analog synthesizer, offering true analog signal paths for rich, warm sounds that are characteristic of classic synthesizers.
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How many voices of polyphony does the Alesis A6 Andromeda have?
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The Alesis A6 Andromeda features 16 voices of polyphony, allowing for complex layering and rich soundscapes.
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Is the Alesis A6 Andromeda suitable for live performances?
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Yes, the Alesis A6 Andromeda is well-suited for live performances, thanks to its 61 full-size keys and robust build, providing a versatile and expressive playing experience.
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Does the Alesis A6 Andromeda have MIDI capabilities?
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The Alesis A6 Andromeda includes MIDI Input, Output, and Through, making it compatible with a wide range of MIDI-enabled devices for studio and live setups.
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What kind of keyboard action does the Alesis A6 Andromeda have?
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The Alesis A6 Andromeda features synth action keys, which are lightweight and responsive, ideal for fast and expressive playing styles.
Videos
Perfect Circuit
Alesis A6 Andromeda Demo
Alesis A6 Andromeda Demo
Perfect Circuit
ALESIS ANDROMEDA A6 - Synth Review, Sounds & Demo | Polyphonic Analog Synthesizer
synth4ever
Alesis A6 Andromeda demo
baward
ALESIS Andromeda A6 Demo & Review
musictrackjp
Alesis A6 Andromeda - Exploring the Filters
ProckGnosis
Reviews
PROS
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Comparable to CS80, M12, and Moog 1 in sound quality
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Offers two different filter types for diverse sounds
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Achieves both polyphonic and monophonic synth sounds
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Features like the ribbon controller enhance playability
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Extensive modulation options for sonic exploration
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Equipped with decent outboard effects and analog overdrive
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Unique sounds beyond presets for creative flexibility
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16-note polyphony for complex compositions
CONS
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Steep learning curve due to its complexity
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Voice chips may fail, affecting note polyphony
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Requires tuning every time it's switched on
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Longevity concerns; may break down beyond repair
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Alesis A6 Andromeda Synthesizer.
Comparisons
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The Andromeda's VCOs and VCFs are considered superior to the Moog One's in terms of sound quality, despite both having different strengths.
Source
Value and pricing
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Despite potential repair costs, the Andromeda holds its value well, allowing owners to recoup their investment if needed.
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Setup and maintenance
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For non-responsive buttons, replacing them can restore functionality without significant expense.
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Some owners experienced boot issues, but starting in "new firmware" mode often resolves this.
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Owners recommend keeping a dust cover on the Andromeda to prevent issues with pots, keys, and ribbons, contributing to long-term reliability.
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Continuous encoders can cause parameter jumps, but cleaning the pots with appropriate spray can help mitigate this issue.
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It's crucial to warm up the synth for 10-15 minutes to avoid tuning issues with oscillators, as cold starts result in out-of-tune sounds.
Source
Features and functionality
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The Andromeda has auxiliary outputs that provide better sound quality than the main stereo outputs, improving volume levels.
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The internal effects, based on the Alesis Wedge, are controversial but appreciated by some for their unique addition to the sound.
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The Andromeda A6 has a 16-part multi-timbral capability, which remains unmatched in many modern analog synths.
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The Andromeda allows firmware backup to a Sysex editor, offering unique diagnostic and recalibration modes, which is unusual for analog synths.
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Using oscillator levels above 33 can cause filter overdrive and distortion, requiring careful management for cleaner sounds.
Source
User experience
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Studio-kept units from original owners are generally more reliable, with fewer issues reported over long-term use.
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The keybed and dual-sided ribbon controller are highly praised, with HOLD buttons enabling unique playing styles like fretboard emulation and dramatic filter sweeps.
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Despite its quirks, the synth is valued for its distinct sound, largely attributed to its unique ASIC chips, which are challenging to replace if needed.
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Owners note the Andromeda has a steep learning curve due to its programmer-centric workflow and deep menu navigation.
Source
Use cases and applications
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The Andromeda's complex interface and programming options are likened to a modular synth, requiring significant time investment to master.
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Other
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Early serial numbers with red graphics are more prone to chip failure, but surviving units are likely stable after a "burn-in" period.
Source
Critic Reviews
4.5 out of 5
Based on 5 Reviews and 28 Ratings
162
Unique
This was created in the early 2000s when everybody wanted digital workstations, including me. Alesis wasn't ever a huge name in the synth circles I was in, so I completely missed it when it came out. Then I saw an interview with Nick Rhodes on YouTube and he said it was his favorite synth of all time ( even more than the ELKA Synthex or Jupiter 8 ! ) so I had to get one. I'd like to get the A6 Retro with black panel that the guy in Germany just made ( only 6 in the world ) that has an adjustable rear panel and wood case. That's nice but 10K is too much for this synth.
It has some unique sounds if you're not into "presets" , you can really get into sonic explorations !!!
1527
MASSIVENESS
This is an EXTREMELY powerful machine / instrument!!! Recreate the sounds of Blade Runner ala Vangelis's CS80 to the deep growling techno bass of the rave days in the 90s to complex polyrhythms of chaos! This is an analog instrument that has unusual depth due to its wonderfully expansive control via the multitudes of expressive modulation options and voices!
100
Incredible Beast
The Andromeda A6 was my first analogue synth and remains a staple of my setup. It's a sixteen voice monster that can easily rival a large modular when setup correctly, and comes equipped with decent outboard effects (the analog overdrive is tasty too when used correctly). This isn't a beginner's instrument, it's something you delve into for hours to build sounds that just aren't possible with any other instrument.
186
Temperamental but great
The trouble with the Andromeda is it has to be tuned every time its switched on and that is always easy on the road. Fiddly this is a great synth for creating
Artist usage
Add artist
While this synthesizer can be seen throughout much of this episode of WKNDR, viewers are treated to a close-up of it at the 21 second mark.
In the video, Richard Devine says, "In this corner these are some of my favorite synths..."
when they are showing the synths at 3:40, we can see the A6 Andromeda
Klaus Schulze uses the Alesis A6 Andromeda Synthesizer, as detailed on the "Klaus Schulze's Instruments" page.
The Alesis Andromeda sitting on a Yamaha CS-80 polysynth, inside Subconscious Studios, Los Angeles, 2011. The Andromeda was in the meantime sold on Subcon's official website.
Nik pictured performing in Holland with his Andromeda.
In this video posted to Facebook, Bicep are seen using an array of synths and machines, last of which being the Alesis A6 Andromeda synthesizer.
For pads we usually use the Andromeda or try to layer something with the Prophet. With the Prophet there's a sort of Blade Runner-esque thing you can't really get from anything else. I use a lot of weird little freeware shit. [Krakli Software's] Cygnus is the best thing ever for spacey pads. It's like Absynth but just made for those sort of sounds in the background. If something that looks good comes out I just buy it.
In the official YouTube preview of his 2011 album "Retaliate," Angerfist is shown using the Alesis A6 Andromeda Synthesizer in his studio.
5th down on PSB list of synths/ samplers
In terms of keyboards, Vrenna notes, “I just like big, shiny keyboards with lots of lights. My sampler is still an E-mu: the E4 Ultra. I still use it every day of my life. They discontinued them because they've gone software, as well with the new E-mu X Series, so I've been picking up used E-mu's out of the Recycler and eBay and building a couple more hardware samplers just so I have them.” His arsenal also includes a Waldorf Microwave XT, Kurzweil K2000/R, Roland V Synths, an old Virus updated “as far as it will go,” a Nord Lead 2, Alesis Andromeda A6 and “a good old trusty JP8000.”
Equipment used in this song: Korg Poly 61, Polysix, Mono/Poly, Micro-preset M500; Roland TR-808, Juno 60, Alpha Juno 1&2; Jomox AirBase99; Touched-by-sound DRM1; Oberheim Matrix 1000; Alesis Andromeda A6; Dave Smith Tetra; MAM MB33 mk II; Akai MPC2500 (only for MIDI sequencing); Yamaha 01V96; Lexicon MPX500, MPX500, MPX1; Kenton Pro-2000 mk II, as well as a MIDI patchbay and additional preamps for my mixer.
Album Usage
The Alesis A6 Andromeda Synthesizer has been featured on the following albums:
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Alesis A6 Andromeda Synthesizer, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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