Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $633
Standard/Professional
$500
$1501+
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Based on price data from 4 merchants for "ASM Hydrasynth Explorer Portable Polyphonic Wave Morphing Synthesizer - Limited-edition Orange". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
The ASM Hydrasynth Explorer Portable Polyphonic Wave Morphing Synthesizer in a stunning limited-edition orange finish is not just an eye-catcher; it's a powerhouse of sound design and performance potential. This compact synth packs the full punch of the renowned 8-voice sound engine of the original Hydrasynth, now wrapped in a portable format with 37 PolyTouch-enabled slim keys. Whether you're a synth enthusiast or a gigging musician, the Hydrasynth Explorer offers unparalleled versatility and expressiveness.
At its core, the Hydrasynth Explorer features three WaveScan oscillators per voice, providing an impressive palette of 219 waveforms to sculpt your sound. Its PolyTouch capabilities set it apart, offering a new level of expressive play with customizable aftertouch curves and offsets. Dive into deep synthesis with its intuitive interface, where a graphic representation of the audio path allows you to tweak parameters easily without getting lost in menus.
The Hydrasynth Explorer is designed for creativity on the go, with battery power options ensuring you can take your music anywhere. Explore endless possibilities with its 32-slot modulation matrix, five ADSR envelope generators, and five LFOs per voice. The eight macro controls provide real-time manipulation of multiple parameters, perfect for dynamic live performances or studio experimentation.
Key Features:
- 37-key virtual analog synthesizer with polyphonic aftertouch
- 8-voice polyphony with 3 oscillators per voice and 4 Mutator waveshapers
- WaveScan oscillators with 219 waveforms
- Dual filters with series/parallel routing options
- 5 envelope generators (ADSR) per voice with BPM sync and looping
- 32-slot Mod Matrix and 8 macro controls for extensive sound manipulation
- CV/Gate connectivity for modular integration
- Battery-powered option for ultimate portability
This synth is a testament to ASM's commitment to innovation and quality, making it an indispensable tool for both aspiring and professional musicians.
Product specs
| Type | Keyboard Synthesizer |
| Sound Engine | Hydrasynth Engine, Complete |
| Analog/Digital | Digital |
| Number of Keys | 37 |
| Type of Keys | Mid-sized, Semi-weighted |
| Aftertouch | Yes, Polyphonic |
| Velocity Sensitive | Yes, Note On/Off |
| Other Controllers | Pitchbend/Modulation Touchstrips, Octave Up/Down Buttons, Chord Mode Button |
| Polyphony | 8-voice |
| Oscillators | 2 x Wavemorphing, 1 x Fixed-Wave |
| LFO | 5 x LFOs |
| Filter | 1 x LP/BP/HP Filter, 1 x SEM-style Filter |
| Envelope Generator | 5 x 6-stage DAHDSR Envelopes (delay, attack, hold, decay, sustain, release) |
| Effects Types | 4 x Reverb, 4 x Delay, Chorus, Flanger, Rotary, Phaser, Lo-Fi, Tremolo, EQ, Compressor, Distortion |
| Arpeggiator | Yes, 64 x Preset Phrases |
| Audio Outputs | 2 x 1/4" (L/mono, R) |
| Headphones | 1 x 1/4" TRS |
| USB | 1 x Type B (MIDI) |
| MIDI I/O | In/Out/USB |
| Pedal Inputs | 1 x 1/4" (sustain) |
| Other I/O | Pitch, Gate, Mod 1, Mod 2, Clock |
| Mod Matrix | 32-slot Modulation Matrix: 35 x Sources, 191 x Destinations |
| Power Source | 8 x AA Batteries or 12V Power Supply (both sold separately) |
| Height | 3.07" |
| Width | 21.88" |
| Depth | 10.03" |
| Weight | 7.49 lbs |
FAQs
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Is the ASM Hydrasynth Explorer suitable for live performances?
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Yes, the ASM Hydrasynth Explorer is well-suited for live performances with its portable design, 8-voice polyphony, and robust modulation capabilities. Its semi-weighted keys with polyphonic aftertouch enhance expressive playability on stage.
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What type of synthesis does the ASM Hydrasynth Explorer use?
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The ASM Hydrasynth Explorer utilizes a digital wave-morphing synthesis engine, combining methods such as wavetables, linear FM, and subtractive synthesis to create a wide range of sounds.
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Does the ASM Hydrasynth Explorer have an arpeggiator?
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Yes, the ASM Hydrasynth Explorer includes an arpeggiator with 64 preset phrases, allowing for dynamic and rhythmic sound creation.
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Can the ASM Hydrasynth Explorer run on batteries?
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Yes, the ASM Hydrasynth Explorer can be powered by 8 AA batteries, making it highly portable for mobile music creation.
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How many modulation options does the ASM Hydrasynth Explorer offer?
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The ASM Hydrasynth Explorer features a 32-slot modulation matrix with 35 sources and 191 destinations, providing extensive modulation possibilities for sound design.
Reviews
PROS
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Compact, portable design with a solid build and high-quality metal casing
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Responsive and expressive polyphonic aftertouch enhances playability
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Extensive wave morphing capabilities with over 219 wave shapes and advanced FM functions
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Easy-to-use interface with a logical layout and mod matrix for intuitive patching
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Wide range of presets suitable for beginners and intermediate users
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Ability to run on batteries adds to its portability
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High-value for money given its features compared to competitors
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The robust and sturdy knobs and controls enhance the tactile experience
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Warm and flexible sound with features like warm mode and Post-Fx EQ
CONS
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Lacks a built-in sequencer, limiting some user experiences
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Built-in effects are mediocre and may not satisfy FX enthusiasts
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Entirely orange color scheme may not appeal to all users
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Some modulation limitations, like envelope delay not being mod destinations
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about ASM Hydrasynth Explorer Portable Polyphonic Wave Morphing Synthesizer - Limited-edition Orange.
Features and functionality
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The Hydrasynth Explorer includes polyphonic aftertouch, which significantly enhances the playing experience, especially compared to models without this feature.
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The synth offers a wide range of sounds, but some owners note a harsh high end in certain patches, necessitating EQ adjustments.
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User experience
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Owners report that the mini keys on the Hydrasynth Explorer are exceptionally high quality and could rival larger keyboard setups for their playability.
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Comparisons
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The Explorer's interface, although involving some menu navigation, is found more ergonomic with its shortcut buttons and smaller screens when compared to the Desktop model.
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Build quality
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Despite its plastic enclosure, the Hydrasynth Explorer is praised for its sturdy build quality, challenging initial concerns about durability.
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Use cases and applications
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The compact and portable design makes it suitable for live performances, although some users find the lack of a sequencer limiting for certain applications.
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Artist usage
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Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use ASM Hydrasynth Explorer Portable Polyphonic Wave Morphing Synthesizer - Limited-edition Orange, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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