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Average Price: $373

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$500

$1501+

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High-end

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Description

Meet the Arturia MicroBrute Analog Synthesizer, a compact and portable powerhouse for any music enthusiast. This little beast packs in three mixable waveforms, allowing for a plethora of unique sound design options. It's more than just a synthesizer, it's a creative tool with patchable CV implementation and audio processing. Its classic monosynth controls, including ADSR envelopes for amplitude and filter and an assignable LFO, make it a versatile instrument for both beginners and seasoned musicians. This is not just another synth; this is the MicroBrute - an innovative and compact musical companion that's ready to accompany you on your sonic journey.

Key Features:

  • Three mixable waveforms for diverse sound design possibilities
  • Patchable CV implementation enhances connectivity and control
  • Audio processing capability for added versatility
  • Full range of classic monosynth controls, including ADSR envelopes for amplitude and filter
  • Assignable LFO for creative sound modulation

Product specs

Brand Arturia
Model MicroBrute 25-Key Synthesizer, MicroBrute Red 25-Key Synthesizer
Finish Black, Red
Year 2014 - 2025
Categories Analog Synths
Analog / Digital Analog
Key Size Mini
Keyboard Action Synth Action
MIDI I/O MIDI Input, USB MIDI
Number of Keys 25 Keys
Polyphony 1 Voice

FAQs

Is the Arturia MicroBrute synthesizer polyphonic?

The Arturia MicroBrute is a monophonic synthesizer, meaning it can play only one note at a time, which is typical for many analog synthesizers.

What kind of filter does the Arturia MicroBrute use?

The Arturia MicroBrute features a Steiner-Parker 2 pole Multimode Filter, offering Low Pass, Band Pass, and High Pass options for shaping your sound.

Can the Arturia MicroBrute connect to other MIDI devices?

Yes, the Arturia MicroBrute has MIDI Input and USB MIDI capabilities, allowing it to connect with other MIDI devices and DAWs for expanded control and integration.

Does the Arturia MicroBrute have an arpeggiator?

Yes, the Arturia MicroBrute includes a full-function step sequencer with an arpeggiator, which can be clock-synced for precise rhythmic patterns.

What is the Brute Factor on the Arturia MicroBrute?

The Brute Factor on the Arturia MicroBrute adds saturation and rich harmonics to your sound, providing a unique and powerful character to your synth patches.

SourceDistributionTV

SourceDistributionTV

Arturia MicroBrute Analog Synth Demo

Video thumbnail for Arturia MicroBrute Analog Synth Demo by SourceDistributionTV

Arturia MicroBrute Analog Synth Demo

SourceDistributionTV

SourceDistributionTV

Video thumbnail for Microbrute Demo by Perfect Circuit

Microbrute Demo

Perfect Circuit

Perfect Circuit

Video thumbnail for MicroBrute Exclusive Review by sonicstate

MicroBrute Exclusive Review

sonicstate

sonicstate

Video thumbnail for Arturia MicroBrute Analog Synth Demo — Daniel Fisher by Sweetwater

Arturia MicroBrute Analog Synth Demo — Daniel Fisher

Sweetwater

Sweetwater

Video thumbnail for SYNTH VS SYNTH -- KORG MONOLOGUE or ARTURIA MICROBRUTE? by Noir Et Blanc Vie

SYNTH VS SYNTH -- KORG MONOLOGUE or ARTURIA MICROBRUTE?

Noir Et Blanc Vie

Noir Et Blanc Vie

Video thumbnail for Arturia MicroBrute - A Great Beginner Synth! by JAde Wii

Arturia MicroBrute - A Great Beginner Synth!

JAde Wii

JAde Wii

Video thumbnail for 11 Synth Tips and Tricks (shown on the MicroBrute by Arturia) by loopop

11 Synth Tips and Tricks (shown on the MicroBrute by Arturia)

loopop

loopop

Video thumbnail for Bad Gear - Arturia Microbrute by AudioPilz

Bad Gear - Arturia Microbrute

AudioPilz

AudioPilz

Video thumbnail for The Arturia MicroBrute- Part 5: The Sequencer by AutomaticGainsay

The Arturia MicroBrute- Part 5: The Sequencer

AutomaticGainsay

AutomaticGainsay

Video thumbnail for Arturia MicroBrute Review - SoundsAndGear by SoundsAndGear

Arturia MicroBrute Review - SoundsAndGear

SoundsAndGear

SoundsAndGear

Video thumbnail for Arturia MicroBrute - This Little Synth is also an Amazing Performance Synth - Here's Why by The Sound Test Room

Arturia MicroBrute - This Little Synth is also an Amazing Performance Synth - Here's Why

The Sound Test Room

The Sound Test Room

Video thumbnail for Bruno Mars - “24K Magic” Synth Bass Cover (Arturia Microbrute) by Testoh Toby

Bruno Mars - “24K Magic” Synth Bass Cover (Arturia Microbrute)

Testoh Toby

Testoh Toby

Reviews

PROS

  • Excellent for beginners with a straightforward interface

  • Analog sound with creative wave-shaping options

  • Versatile sequencer and arpeggiator included

  • Sub-oscillator adds depth to sounds

  • Mod Matrix adds almost modular capabilities

  • Sturdy build quality despite compact size

  • Integrates well with Eurorack and other modular gear

  • Unique filter with rich harmonics

  • Can produce a wide range of sounds, from fat basses to aggressive leads

  • Good value for price

CONS

  • Mini keys can be problematic for some users

  • Limited sonic variety may lead to repetitive patches

  • Lacks built-in effects

  • Some users find the synth's overall sound too punchy or warm

  • No preset memory for quick sound recall

  • Plastic housing and build may not last

  • LFO rate jumping reported by some users

  • No noise generator, limiting percussive sound creation

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Arturia MicroBrute.

Comparisons

  • Some owners find the MicroBrute's sound sterile and suggest exploring the Arturia Microfreak for more versatile digital oscillators.

    Source
  • The Microfreak includes an analog SEM-style filter, providing transparency and high resonance, which some users find can be overwhelming at high volumes.

    Source
  • The MicroBrute offers a Moog-style subtractive synthesis experience, ideal for bass, lead, and percussion, contrasting with the Microfreak's digital paraphonic capabilities.

    Source
  • The Minibrute 1 is noted for its aftertouch and additional envelope, offering more sound flexibility compared to the MicroBrute, which excels in portability and patchability.

    Source

User experience

  • Some owners transitioned from the MicroBrute to the Microfreak for its versatility in filling gaps within existing setups, highlighting its broader modulation options and sequencing capabilities.

    Source
  • Piano players may prefer connecting the MicroBrute to a MIDI keyboard with weighted keys for better playability, especially for basslines.

    Source
  • Owners appreciate the MicroBrute's immediacy and straightforwardness, making it a staple in setups for quick sound dialing and live adjustments.

    Source
  • The MicroBrute's sound is described as having a unique, sometimes harsh metallic quality, which can be compelling and powerful, though it may be limiting for some users.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The MicroBrute is considered an excellent entry point for users planning to expand into DIY synths, due to its capability to control other synths.

    Source
  • The MicroBrute pairs well with Volcas and external reverb for creating engaging soundscapes.

    Source
  • Users highlight the MicroBrute's strength as a bass machine with enormous presence, making it ideal for bass sounds.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The MicroBrute's CV-Gate outputs and modulation matrix can efficiently initiate a modular system setup with just a few additional pieces of gear.

    Source
  • The MicroBrute's patch bay offers flexibility, especially when integrating with other gear like SQ-1 or Volcas. Despite limited modulation, it's valuable for creative setups.

    Source
  • The sequencer may require computer software to reset from internal to external clock, indicating a potential setup quirk.

    Source
  • It’s noted that the MicroBrute’s controls have a "normal" sound at 50% on the sliders/knobs, with 100% introducing overdrive, offering distinct sound shaping options.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • MicroBrutes are often available for slightly over $100, but may not be seen as great value due to their perceived lack of analog benefits.

    Source

Build quality

  • The keybed is described as poor quality, with some users noting it feels "crappy" compared to other synths.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Arturia MicroBrute

soundonsound.com

The Arturia MicroBrute impresses with its compact size, affordability, and powerful analog sound, offering unique features like the patchbay for modular connectivity and a straightforward step sequencer. While it excels in delivering rich oscillator tones and experimental sounds, its limitations include a non-responsive mini keyboard and shorter ADSR envelope times, which might deter traditional synthesis purists. Despite these drawbacks, it remains a remarkable value for its price, appealing to both seasoned synthesists and newcomers seeking an entry into the analog synth world. Arturia continues to carve a niche for innovative, budget-friendly synthesizers.

positive

Arturia MicroBrute review | MusicRadar

musicradar.com

Arturia MicroBrute impresses with a rich analog sound and extensive connectivity options in a compact form. Its flexible sequencer and unique wave modulation offer creative potential beyond its size. However, the lack of battery power and omission of a noise oscillator are downsides. Despite these, the MicroBrute stands out as a powerful, fun synthesizer at an attractive price point, ideal for those seeking a true analog experience.

positive

Arturia MicroBrute Review | BPB

bedroomproducersblog.com

The Arturia MicroBrute impresses with its powerful sound and portability, making it an excellent choice for synth newcomers and seasoned electronic musicians alike. Its unique features, like the Steiner-Parker filter and "Brute Factor" parameter, provide a rich palette for sound design. While the spongy keys and limited modulation wheel options are drawbacks, these are minor considering its affordability and versatility. Overall, the MicroBrute is a standout in its class, offering great value for those eager to delve into analog synthesis.

positive

Arturia: MicroBrute Analog Synthesizer | Tape Op Magazine | Longform candid interviews with music producers and audio engineers covering mixing, mastering, recording and music production.

tapeop.com
Add

4.5 out of 5

Based on 31 Reviews and 173 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
G

Great build quality and sound

It really does have a nice build quality and great sound considering there's only one osc.

Artist usage

Add artist
See how Noisia uses Arturia MicroBrute

Noisia

Music Producer

Noisia & Pacific

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo from Thijs' Tumblr, an Arturia MicroBrute rests on top of his large modular synthesizer in his studio.

See how Dirty South uses Arturia MicroBrute

Dirty South

Music Producer

...
Verified via Instagram

Dirty South posted, "New studio toy...so cute perfect for my sausage fingers" on his Instagram, showing off his Arturia MicroBrute Analog Synth.

See how John Dwyer uses Arturia MicroBrute

John Dwyer

Singer, Guitarist

Thee OhSees

...
Verified via YouTube

You can see the Arturia Microbrute situated among John's synth set up a few times throughout the video, particularly at 10:13. He's not playing it during the mentioned time stamp but it's clearly visible under his right arm.

See how Andrew Huang uses Arturia MicroBrute

Andrew Huang

Singer, Guitarist

First Of October

...
Verified via YouTube

In multiple clips throughout the video, a MicroBrute is seen on Andrew's desk.

See how Virtual Riot uses Arturia MicroBrute

Virtual Riot

Music Producer, DJ

...
Verified via YouTube

at 0:22 it shows him playing the MicroBrute

See how Jordan Rudess uses Arturia MicroBrute

Jordan Rudess

Keyboardist, Composer

Dream Theater

...
Verified via Facebook

The microbrute is seen in the middle on the table.

See how The Prodigy uses Arturia MicroBrute

The Prodigy

Music Producer

...
Verified via Facebook

In this picture on The Prodigy's Facebook you can see they use the Microbrute live.

See how Moderat uses Arturia MicroBrute

Moderat

Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

You can see the Microbrute in this picture

See how Paul Davids uses Arturia MicroBrute

Paul Davids

Guitarist

...
Verified via YouTube

First visible at 1:01.

See how Anthony Gonzalez uses Arturia MicroBrute

Anthony Gonzalez

Guitarist, Composer

M83

...
Verified via YouTube

In this video, Anthony Gonzalez from M83 can be seen jamming with the MicroBrute/MiniBrute in his Hollywood studio. From Arturia's website, Anthony Gonzalez says:

"It is actually the best thing on earth for travelers. I spend a lot of time on the road and being able to record anytime with a beautiful sounding analogue synth is just priceless"

See how Adrian Utley uses Arturia MicroBrute

Adrian Utley

Guitarist, Keyboardist

Portishead

...
Verified via Arturia

On this article, on the Arturia website, Adrian Utley claimed to use Microbrute

See how Liam Howlett uses Arturia MicroBrute

Liam Howlett

Music Producer

The Prodigy

...
Verified via Facebook

Liam Howlett of The Prodigy uses the Arturia MicroBrute during live performances, as shown in a photo posted on the band's official Facebook page.

Album Usage

The Arturia MicroBrute 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 Arturia MicroBrute, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

Community setups

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Gear IQ 984

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Gear IQ 77

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Gear IQ 145

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Gear IQ 69

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Gear IQ 1869

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Gear IQ 210

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Gear IQ 171

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Gear IQ 119

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dr_fluffy

Gear IQ 314

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gay_dilla

Gear IQ 57

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